HE Proof 1

Bulldogs’ Rick inspires in pole vault and in the classroom

BY JOE EMANSKI

Is Sydney Rick the unlikeliest college pole vault recruit ever?

Probably not, but she is one of the most inspirational.

After she graduates this spring, the Hopewell Valley Central High senior will head to Stockton University to vault and gain a degree. Those are two achievements well off the radar when Rick entered ninth grade.

“I didn’t expect to go to (public) high school, I didn’t expect to do any high school sport,” she said. “I never really thought about colleges. If I did, I thought I was gonna go with a family member, because they could tutor me outside the classroom. But now it’s fine. I don’t need any help.”

Indeed she doesn’t, and that’s a success story in itself as Rick has battled through dyslexia in order to earn the grades necessary for college. During that same time, she won an outdoor gold medal in pole vault at the Central Jersey Group III sectionals as a freshman, and an indoor gold in the CJ II sectionals this past winter.

“Sydney’s obviously a great athlete, but I’m really proud of what she’s accomplished in the classroom,” Bulldogs coach

Aaron Oldfield said. “She’s just a great kid, and she’s overcome a ton.”

Rick’s early academic career was a struggle. She was in small classes getting one-on-one reading classes “but nothing was working. I shut down every time I went to school.”

In middle school she entered Lawrenceville’s Bridge Academy, which specializes in education for students with dyslexia and other learning disabilities. Rick pushed herself hard and by her junior year began taking a course at HVCHS. This year, she is a full-time student on Delaware Ave.

“I still don’t think I’ve overcome (dyslexia). I have a lot of struggles that I’m working with,” Rick said. “But I think everything just clicked, I worked hard enough to push myself through everything. I was doing extra work outside the classroom, I was showing my teachers, ‘You can push me harder, I’m fine. Give me some more work.’”

Kennedy ready to make an impact as mayor of Hopewell Borough

how far would you go if they were sick?

She added with a laugh, “A lot of my teachers didn’t know what to do with me. When they gave me work I would finish it before the duty and I’d say ‘OK can I have more?’ They were like “Uh,

BY JOE EMANSKI

Paul Anzano and Sky Morehouse, two long-time elected officials who left office in 2024, are among the best known politicians in recent Hopewell Borough memory, but neither one grew up in Hopewell Valley.

did grow up in Hopewell Valley — first on Main Street in Pennington, and later in Hopewell Township.

Welcome to Capital Health.

See ZARINA, Page 12

Ryan Kennedy, the two-term council member who succeeded Anzano as mayor in January,

After graduating from the Hopewell Valley school district, Kennedy went on to study law at Seton Hall University Law School in Newark. During that time, he lived in Hoboken. When it came time to settle down in 2010, though, he looked

When someone you care about is sick, you’ll do whatever it takes to make sure they get the best care. And so do we. With a collaborative structure so our doctors can craft a treatment that’s uniquely right for you. With primary care physicians who never schedule an appointment that’s less than 20 minutes. With world-renowned surgeons that are changing cancer treatment.

back toward the place where he grew up — ending up in Hopewell Borough, where he became just the third owner of a now 120-year-old house in the heart of town.

“After college and law school, I was looking for a walkable community with lots of things to do, and Hopewell Borough hit all the right notes,” he says.

See MAYOR, Page 9

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Because you’d go to the ends of the earth for the people you care about. And we do too.

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waiting for photo from Ryan Kennedy

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Fairgrown Farm, Chubby’s work together to alleviate hunger

More than 800,000 people in the Garden State are grappling with hunger, including 1 in 10 children.

As a local farm committed to sustainable and ethical farming practices, Fairgrown Farm is taking a stand against this crisis by partnering with The Chubby’s Project, a local nonprofit in Hopewell dedicated to food justice.

Fairgrown Farm and The Chubby’s Project aims to rally local farms in New Jersey to directly address the pressing issue of food insecurity affecting a significant portion of the state’s population.

“At Fairgrown Farm, we believe in the power of community and the role local agriculture can play in addressing hunger. Teaming up with The Chubby’s Project allows us to channel our commitment to sustainable farming into meaningful action for those in need,” said James Klett, co-founder of Fairgrown Farm.

As part of this joint initiative, Fairgrown Farm is actively participating in a

fundraising campaign for The Chubby’s Project to sponsor farm shares for neighbors in need.

Those shares, also known as CSA (community supported agriculture), are boxes of fresh produce either delivered directly to people’s homes or picked up on the farm every week. Fairgrown has run this program for paying members of the community for 5 years, but now, with the leadership of The Chubby’s Project, is able to make the program accessible for households facing food insecurity. The goal for the first year of the project is to support 70 families in the Hopewell, Princeton, Ewing, and Montgomery area. Community members are invited to support this important cause by contributing to the fundraising campaign. More information is onlione at gofundme. com/f/fresh-produce-for-hopewell-neighbors. Or, contact The Chubby’s Project at: foundation@auntchubbys.com.

See NEWS, Page 4

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

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RWJUH Hamilton April Healthy Living / Community Education Programs

SWEET SUCCESS SOCIETY: A DIABETES GROUP

Monday, April 1, May 6; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Monday, April 8; 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

A group for anyone with diabetes or caring for someone living with diabetes. Learn and discuss healthy ways to manage diabetes alongside peers and Taryn Krietzman, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist.

SPRING MINI MEDICAL SCHOOL: “THE SCIENCE OF LONGEVITY”

Tuesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Focus on the science of longevity: the extension of human life, and wellbeing. This approach may prevent chronic disease and extend long-term health. Changing your view from “lifespan” to “healthspan”.

Week 1: John DiBiase, MD; orthopedic surgeon, clinical instructor

Week 2: Javier Villota, MD; Medical Director of Occupational Medicine, Corporate Health and Travel Medicine

Week 3: Sara Ali, MD; Geriatrician and Palliative Care Specialist

Week 4: Maureen Stevens, DPT; Senior Physical Therapist

Week 5: Patricia McDougall, BSN, RN; Integrative Therapies Nurse

WHAT’S IN THE BOX?

Tuesday., April 2; 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Learn what wonderful fruits and veggies are up to this time of year and how to make them shine! Enjoy being an in person studio-audience member as Taryn Krietzman, RDN does a live taping or join us from

your home via our live zoom.

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN: SPRING BREAK(FAST)

Thursday, April 4; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

With the kids having a day off from school, take advantage of a great way to get them out and interested in healthy eating! Empower kids with culinary skills and nutrition knowledge to become their healthiest selves! For children 5 years and older. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Taryn Krietzman, RDN. Fee: $5 per person

DANCE IT OUT!

Friday, April 5; 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

With the kids having a day off from school, take advantage of a great way to get them out and moving in a fun activity for all ages.

Monday, April 15; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. When in doubt, dance it out! Find your rhythm and ease the everyday stresses of life with movement.

TAPPING FOR STRESS RELIEF

Monday, April 8: 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Stress creates blockages in the body that impedes healing. “Tapping” uses the same meridian system as used in acupuncture to help restore the body to heal itself. Patti McDougall, BSN, Integrative Therapies Nurse.

UP, UP, AND AWAY: EXPRESSIVE ARTS FOR OUR WISHES AND INTENTIONS

Wednesday, April 10; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. We make wishes on birthday candles and shooting stars! Let’s take a look at wishes and intentions,

and formulate how they could be expressed in this workshop. We will read relevant, heartfelt poetry and create a beautiful collage on canvas of a hot air balloon over our thoughtful journaling. We’ll send those wishes and intentions up, up, and away! Rochelle L. Stern, expressive arts facilitator. $15

DINNER WITH A DOCTOR: HEALTHY BONES CLUB

Thursday, April 11; 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Internal Medicine Physician, Anjali Bhandarkar, MD will be discussing the diagnosis, risk factors and treatment for osteoporosis. Also included, insight on the treatment of Vitamin D deficiency and when to measure Vitamin D levels. Dinner provided.

CRYSTAL BOWL SOUND IMMERSION

Monday, April 15; 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Sound healing uses instruments like singing bowls, gongs, drums and chimes to create an atmosphere promoting deep rest, nervous system rebalancing, and emotional release. Sit or lay while the practitioner takes you on a sound journey for mind, body and spirit. Bring a yoga mat, blanket, pillow or anything that makes you comfortable. Adriana Hansen, RYT200, SHA1 of the Learning Collaborative. Fee: $15

NUTRITION, FEEDING, AND SWALLOWING AFTER STROKE

Wednesday, April 17; 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Join dietician Taryn, Oc. Therapist Sarah, and Speech-Language

Pathologist Ashley to discuss management of nutrition and eating after stroke. Learn how to adjust food choices throughout the recovery process for optimal nutrition, frequently utilized adaptive equipment for self-feeding, and common strategies to manage swallowing problems after stroke.

HEALTHRYTHMS® DRUM CIRCLE

Wednesday, April 17; 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Drum your cares away with our monthly Drum Circle. It’s lots of fun and a great stress reliever. Drums provided. Mauri Tyler, CTRS,CMP $15

BRAIN HEALTH-LEARN PROVEN WAYS TO KEEP YOUR BRAIN YOUNG

Monday, April 22; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. With so much information out today on brain health what methods really work? Join Dr. Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D. to learn more about how to keep your brain young.

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR HEALTH

Thursdays, May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, June 6; 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Take Control of Your Health/ Chronic Disease Management Program is a cost effective evidence-based health promotion program for people with any ongoing health condition, such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and similar conditions. Participants will learn how to problem solve, set goals, and relaxation techniques to help manage chronic conditions. Participants must attend all 6 classes.

CATCH SOME ZZZZZ’S!

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

Insomnia affects your mental as well as physical health, making prone to heart disease and other serious illnesses. Join Patti McDougall, BSN, Integrative Health Nurse to learn more about how we should spend a third of our life.

ORTHO 101

Monday, May 6; 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Join Orthopedic Program Coordinator, Denise Berdecia, MSN, RN, ONC, Lead Physical Therapists and Occupational Therapists, for an in depth discussion on total knee replacements. These experts will explain preventative treatment, talking to a surgeon, decision for surgery, hospital expectations, and recovery with outpatient therapy.

DESIGNER BAG BINGO!

Friday, May 10; 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

This popular event is a great way to get out with your friends for a night fun with many Designer Bags up for grabs. Admission ticket includes 12 rounds of Bingo, Tickets will be $45. For more information or to purchase tickets email CommunityEdHAM@ rwjbh.org.

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

Better Health Programs/Complimentary Membership at 65+ Years Old

Scan

email bhprogram@rwjbh.org

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

DR. ALI, BREAKFAST AND LEARN, HEALTHY AGING FOR WOMEN

Thursday, April 4; 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Dr. Ali, Board Certified in Geriatrics and Internal Medicine, will lead a focused conversation on concerns for women as we age discussing gynecological cancers, bone health, sexual health and more.

TAI CHI CLASSES

Thursday, April 4 &18; 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

A SENIOR SOCIAL GROUP

Wednesday, April 3, 10, 17, 24; 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Please join us for our ongoing program “A Senior Social Group,” gathering in a collaborative setting to exchange thoughts, feelings and experiences amongst peers. This is a safe-zone designed to be welcoming and understanding of all attendees while exploring this season of our lives.

YOGA CLASSES

Tuesday, April 9 and 23; 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

MEDITATION CLASSES

Tuesday, April 9 & 23; 11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

CHAIR YOGA

Tuesday, April 9 and 23; Noon to 12:45 p.m.

Krystal Loughlin, certified RYT, is introducing Chair Yoga to our Better Health Program. Using a chair for seated poses and also for balancing poses, this class is perfect for those who haven’t moved their bodies for a while, recovering from an injury or have mobility/balancing difficulties. A great place to start practicing yoga to help boost your flexibility, find inner peace, unwind and stretch.

ART THERAPY & HISTORY FEATURING GEORGIA O’KEEFE, “THE MOTHER OF AMERICAN MODERNISM.”

Thursday, April 11; 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Tapping into your creative side is

a great way to de-stress, improve mental outlook, and simply have some fun. Lisa Bayer from Always Best Care Senior Services, created this program that combines art history with an art project based on the works of artist, Georgia O’Keefe. Using pastels, you will draw your own oversized flower and learn the techniques to layer and blend the pastels.

HOSPITALS AND OUR AGING COMMUNITY

Tuesday, April 16, 2024; 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m

Should hospital care change as we age and if so, what does it look like? Join us to delve into this important topic about how hospitals can better serve our aging population. Panel includes: Lisa A. Breza MSN RN NEA-BC, Chief Administrative Officer, Dr. Sara Ali, Board Certified Geriatrics and Internal Medicine, and Dawn Hutchinson, MSN, RN, PCCN-K, NEABC, Chief Nursing Officer

FOR MEN ONLY!

Wednesday, April 24; 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Ashish Desai, LCSW, from VA NJ Health Care System will lead this open discussion with flexible topics that will be suggested by and of interest to you! This group will meet quarterly.

HERBAL MOCKTAIL PARTY

Tuesday, April 30; 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Amanda Crooke, Herbalist and Owner of the Locust Light Farm in New Jersey will teach us how to craft delicious herbal mocktails (non-alcoholic cocktails) using a variety of infusion and blending techniques. You’ll sip and sample these refreshing drinks as we explore herbal extractions, flavor pairings, and ingredients. You’ll make your own tasty oxymel and receive delicious mocktail recipes to take home

Any food insecure household in the local area can participate in this program and receive fresh produce from May through November from local farms.

Hopewell resident plans benefit concert for Philippine animal rescue

By the time Mary McIntyre learned that her first husband, Trenton native Mike Pizzullo, had died suddenly in the Philippines, Mike had been deceased almost four months.

A former U.S. Marine who’d done three tours of duty in the Middle East, Pizzullo had lived overseas for years. McIntyre knew that he had lived alone and that his many cats were family to him. Upon hearing news of his passing, she asked: “Who is caring for his cats?”

The answer was: no one. Philippine authorities shipped Mike’s remains and possessions home to NJ, locked the door to his jungle abode, and left the cats to fend for themselves.

Pizzullo’s family in New Jersey was understandably overwhelmed by his unexpected death at age 52 and settling his affairs internationally, McIntyre says.

“Mike and I were crazy cat people together,” she says. “The idea of finding

his cats from across the world, when all we had was a partial address in a remote area, was a long shot. But I had to try; it was the only thing I could do for Mike.”

McIntyre learned that animal rescues are few in the Philippines. Strays are numerous, and spay/neuter programs almost nonexistent.

However, she was able to find a familyrun home rescue called The Cat House. She says that the family was moved by Mike’s story and drove 60 miles to his village in search of his cats.

Somehow, three of them were still alive and lingering near his home. They now live at The Cat House.

“The Cat House family are my heroes,” says McIntyre. “They rescue animals with horrific injuries. Recent rescues include a puppy left in an alley tied to a chair, and a cat stabbed with a screwdriver, walking around with it still embedded. I decided to give a concert at my church (Hopewell United Methodist) in hopes of raising funds for their work.”

A professional vocalist and former member of the nationally touring Christmas show Wizards of Winter, McIntyre will perform “StoryTellers: The Music of Iconic Songwriters” on Saturday, April 13 at 7 p.m. at HUMC (20 Blackwell Ave, Hopewell Borough). She will be joined by vocalist Lou Steele

and guitarist Chris Turner, singing hits by Simon and Garfunkel, Berry Gordy, Joni Mitchell, and others. More about the concert and Mike’s story, can be found at marymcintyresound.com.

Sourland Mountain Festival set for July 13

Tickets are on sale for the 19th Annual Sourland Mountain Festival, set for Saturday, July 13, rain or shine, from 3 to 8:30 p.m. Tickets go on sale Monday, March 18th with early bird pricing!

The Sourland Mountain Festival is presented by Unionville Vineyards, located in the heart of the Sourlands on the aptly named Rocktown Road in Ringoes. The festival will feature a food from the Ryland Inn and craft beer from Flemington’s Lone Eagle Brewing.

Every year, the festival is organized by a dedicated group of volunteers, committed to planning an amazing afternoon for attendees of all ages. The event will feature live music, food and drink, and merchandise vendors, as well as family activities and exhibits from environmental nonprofit organizations.

Organizers say that festival proceeds benefit the Sourland Conservancy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection, promotion, and preservation

of the unique character of the Sourland Mountain region.

For tickets and more information, visit sourlandmountainfestival.com/tickets.

Township Clean Sweep Day set for April 13

Every year, community members in Hopewell gather to beautify the area by collecting garbage that has accumulated throughout the township. It’s a day for the township and nonprofits to take pride in the town by coming together to help clean it up. As a bonus, organizations can earn money for their time.

Hopewell Township Clean Sweep is part of the New Jersey Clean Communities program, which was started in 1986 with the passage of the Clean Community Act. It is grant-funded and promotes litter cleanup throughout the state. Protective gear is provided, and participants earn an hourly wage for their organizations.

Hopewell Township Clean Sweep Day is on Saturday, April 13, rain or shine. Those interested in participating can meet at the Public Works building, 203 Washington Crossing Pennington Road, Titusville at 9 a.m. Groups will receive protective gear, tools needed, and an assigned area. For more information, contact Melissa Laing at mlaing@hopewelltwp.org.

BI-MONTHLY NEWS FROM CAPITAL HEALTH

U.S. News & World Report Recognizes Capital Health on Best Hospitals for Maternity List

Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell, home to the most complete maternity facility in the Greater Mercer County, New Jersey area, was named among the best in the nation for maternity services, according to the latest U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals for Maternity list.

Capital Health is one of 19 hospitals in New Jersey and the only hospital in the Greater Mercer County area to earn this recognition.

To be recognized among the Best Hospitals for Maternity, Capital Health’s Maternity Services Program excelled on multiple quality metrics that matter to expectant families, including complication rates, C-sections, whether births are scheduled too early in pregnancy, how successfully each hospital supports breastfeeding, and transparency on racial/ethnic disparities, among other measures. “High Performing” status, the highest ranking U.S. News awards for that type of care.

For the very first time, U.S. News’ Best Hospitals for Maternity Care evaluation recognized “Maternity Care Access Hospitals” across the nation. Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell was one of 73 essential hospitals to earn this designation by providing quality care to expectant parents who wouldn’t otherwise have access to maternity care and serve communities that would otherwise be maternity care deserts. This new category is based on a number of measures including geographic isolation, number of obstetric providers per 10,000 births and hospital quality.

“We’re extremely proud to have earned two important designations from U.S. News & World Report for our Maternity

Services Program,” said Kira Przybylko, medical director of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Capital Health. “For the outstanding teams at our Josephine Plumeri Birthing Center, being named a high performing hospital validates their commitment to providing the highest level of care to expectant mothers. On an organizational level, the ‘Maternity Care Access’ recognition goes a long way to demonstrate our broader commitment to the community by assuring growing families in Trenton and other nearby underserved neighborhoods that we’re here to help them get off to the healthiest and safest start possible.”

“Hospitals that receive a High Performing designation as part of Best Hospitals for Maternity Care meet a high standard in caring for parents with uncomplicated pregnancies,” said Jennifer Winston, health data scientist at U.S. News. “These hospitals have C-section rates that are 26% lower, and newborn complication rates that are 37% lower than unrecognized hospitals. Parents-to-be can research their local hospitals’ performance metrics for free at health.usnews.com to help them choose where to have their baby.”

The Maternity Services Program at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell makes up the most complete maternity facility in the area. From routine deliveries to high-risk needs, staff at the Josephine Plumeri Birthing Center provide a full range of prenatal, obstetrical, postpartum, and neonatal care options so newborns have the greatest chance for a healthy start. The designated Regional Perinatal Center provides neonatal care, including Mercer County’s only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for at-risk births. To learn more, visit capitalhealth.org/maternity.

While you can’t completely avoid allergens, being aware of these facts can help you prepare:

… Tree, grass, and ragweed pollen surges during seasons of warm days and cold nights.

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS… AND ALLERGY SEASON

… Pollen counts are higher on warm, windy days, and in the spring, they are generally highest during evening. Rainfall offers temporary relief, but pollen counts often soar afterward.

… Molds thrive in high heat and humidity.

While it’s exciting to see trees, lawns, and flowers begin to stir, spring fever can give way to “hay fever,” or what is commonly known as seasonal allergies. The itchy eyes, runny noses, and coughing that come with seasonal allergies can stop the most enthusiastic optimists in their tracks.

The main cause of seasonal allergies is pollen from plants, the yellowish, powdery grains released by male plants as part of their reproductive process. “There is a lot of pollen in the air this time of year, and if you’re allergic, your body’s immune system releases histamine to fight it,” said DR. KATHRYN HAMILTON, a board certified family medicine physician with Capital Health – Virtual Primary Care. “This can cause inflammation, overproduction of mucous and other common symptoms of allergies. Allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites are everywhere, but the severity of symptoms can vary, depending on the person and the location.”

… Look to local news and weather outlets for daily pollen counts.

… Keeping windows and doors shut at home and in your car on high pollen count days can help reduce exposure.

“Millions of adults and children live with seasonal allergies, so you’re not alone,” said Dr. Hamilton. “If you’re not sure what’s causing your allergies, schedule a visit with your doctor to identify your triggers and develop a plan for treatment.” Nasal sprays or rinses can ease symptoms, but your doctor might suggest anti-histamines or steroids. For more long-term relief, allergy shots, also known as immunotherapy, may be recommended. Spring is a season for new beginnings, so don’t let seasonal allergies hold you back. Contact your primary care provider to develop a plan that will help you spring forward to better health. Capital Health Virtual Primary Care is a team of more than 35 primary care providers who can address a wide range of health conditions, including (but not limited to) seasonal allergies, the common cold, flu, symptoms of COVID-19, upper respiratory infection, and more. For details, or to request an appointment, visit capitalvirtualcare.org.

Wednesday, April 10 to May 29, 2024 | 4 – 5 p.m.

Location: Capital Health – Behavioral Health Specialists

100 K Johnson Boulevard N., Suite 201, Bordentown, NJ 08505

Connecting with others who have also experienced a loss can be comforting and helpful. Join Licensed Clinical Social Worker Meredith Kudrick as she leads you through an in-person eight week support and psychotherapy group.

To sign up, call 609.689.5725. This group therapy program will be billed to your health insurance.

Understanding Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is one of the most common forms of cardiac arrhythmia, a range of cardiac conditions in which the heart beats in an irregular way (either too fast or too slow). AFib is indicated by a rapid heart rate due to uncoordinated electrical signals in the upper chambers of the heart. While a normal heart rate is around 60 to 100 beats per minute, a person with AFib can have a heart rate that ranges from normal to extremely rapid.

AFib can be caused by many different issues including heart conditions or other contributing causes such as high blood pressure, pneumonia, obstructive sleep apnea, infections from viruses, thyroid problems, high alcohol intake or other drug use, and age. AFib symptoms can include fatigue, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and chest pain.

“In addition to its underlying causes, AFib also increases the risk of stroke, heart failure and other complications,” said DR. SCOTT BURKE, medical director of Cardiac Electrophysiology and a board certified, fellowship trained cardiac electrophysiologist at Capital Health Cardiology Specialists. “Anyone having any symptoms of atrial fibrillation should make an appointment with a cardiologist to get a diagnosis and learn more about which treatment option is right for them. Medication is typically the first line of therapy, but the highly trained physicians in our Cardiac Electrophysiology Program also offer the latest minimally invasive options when more advanced care is needed that result in less pain, shorter hospital stays, and less risk for complications.”

The Watchman device is an option for people with atrial fibrillation not caused by a heart valve problem, which can lead to blood pooling and forming a clot in a part of the heart called the left atrial appendage (LAA). In a minimally invasive procedure, the Watchman device is guided through a narrow tube inserted into a vein in the patient’s leg and implanted into the LAA to permanently close it. During recovery, the patient’s own heart tissue grows over the Watchman device to prevent clots from developing in the heart and dramatically reduce the risk of stroke for certain AFib patients.

A pacemaker is a small device usually implanted in the chest with thin wires (or leads) that connect to the heart through blood vessels to monitor and deliver electrical impulses that stabilize the heart’s electrical system. Capital Health cardiac

electrophysiologists offer leadless pacing options, which eliminate the wires and allow a miniaturized device to be placed directly into the heart and perform like a traditional pacemaker. Catheter ablation is the elimination of electrically active abnormal tissue that uses recording, imaging, and mapping tools guided through thin catheters into the bloodstream to allow physicians to localize the sources of cardiac arrhythmias like AFib. After the specific location is revealed, the area triggering the arrhythmia can usually be treated with radiofrequency ablation (heat energy) or cryoablation (cold energy).

To make an appointment with one of the cardiac arrhythmia specialists at Capital Health, call 215-860-3344 or visit capitalhealthcardiology.org for more information.

Mindful Yoga

FREE UPCOMING HEALTH EDUCATION EVENTS

Register by calling 609.394.4153 or register online at capitalhealth.org/events and be sure to include your email address. Please register early. Class size is limited.

Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.

Wednesday, April 10, 2024 | 6 p.m.

Location: Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell

NJ PURE Conference Center, One Capital Way, Pennington, NJ 08534

Join certified yoga instructor Marsha Rudolph to experience a gentle, slow yoga practice that links breath and body awareness to increase calm, promote peace of mind, and lift your mood along with many other health benefits. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat or large towel and two yoga blocks (if you have them) for additional bliss.

Fitness Options for Aging Well

Monday, April 15, 2024 | 6 p.m.

Location: Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell

NJ PURE Conference Center, One Capital Way, Pennington, NJ 08534

There are many exercise options available as we age. The important thing is to learn how to do them safely and to find out what type works best for you. Cheryl Ann McGinnis, manager of Rehabilitation Services at Capital Health, will demonstrate how to properly stretch and review options for fitness programs that are individualized to each person’s needs.

ADDITIONAL UPCOMING HEALTH EDUCATION EVENTS:

THE SHOULDER: DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

Thursday, May 2, 2024 | 6 p.m. Zoom Meeting

NUTRITION TIPS FOR THRIVING AS YOU AGE

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

STROKE: PREVENTABLE, TREATABLE, BEATABLE

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

TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR KNEE AND HIP PAIN

Monday, June 3, 2024 | 6 p.m. Zoom Meeting

MAYOR continued from Page 1

Kennedy joined the board of trustees of Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space in 2014. He is still on the board today, serving as its vice president. “The group does amazing work in preservation and stewardship of the lands around Hopewell Valley and these greenbelt areas around Hopewell Borough, which is fantastic,” Kennedy says.

He is proud that FoHVOS was a sponsor for the Outdoor Equity Alliance, which has recently spun off as a nonprofit agency of its own. “It’s a big deal to preserve land, and it’s hard work, but it’s even more important that we take the next step to make sure it’s open and accessible to everyone, and I’m really pleased that those efforts are continuing,” he says. “Land preservation is great, but the thing is that it’s also used to keep people away from that land. It sits empty. So the flip side of that is making sure equity is a core part of all those decisions.”

Kennedy has recently stepped back from a leadership position at the board of the Hopewell Valley YMCA, where he had been serving as president of the board of directors. He remains a member of the board.

“I’m very excited about the work that they continue to do, whether it’s sports or child care or the mobile food pantry —

the Y is a parent organization for that, and the work they are doing with Hopewell Township right now, for a new community and senior center (behind the ShopRite on Pennington Circle) is really important.

I’m very excited that the Y purchased 14 acres for that project and continue to work with the township on the design and working together to move that forward. It will be very exciting to have a community center that the boroughs and township can all use together.”

He says he was moved to get more involved in local government after being dissatisfied with the results of the 2016 presidential election. He had run unsuccessfully for a seat on council once before, but decided to give it another go.

“After the 2016 election, I decided to throw my hat in the ring again. I took a look at what was happening nationally and decided it was time to do something locally and have an impact here,” he says.

He was elected to serve on council in 2017 and again in 2020. When long-time mayor Paul Anzano announced in 2023 that he would not run again, Kennedy decided to step up and run for mayor. He was unopposed in November’s election, and sworn in as borough mayor in January.

He says as mayor he will focus on three

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things that residents tell him time and time again should be focuses of borough government. “Affordability, communication, and inclusion when it comes to working with the government,” he says.

Another area of focus is the environment — by which Kennedy means not just environmental science, but also the physical environment of Hopewell Borough, especially as it pertains to public safety. Last month, the borough, in collaboration with Hopewell Township and Mercer County, changed the speed limits along Broad Street to 25 mph in an effort to improve safety in Hopewell.

“Getting our speed limit reduced was a huge thing and I’m so grateful to everyone at the county for helping to make it happen,” he says. “I am for always working toward a safer downtown for bicyclists and pedestrians.”

Kennedy admits that there are challenges coming down the pike in terms of affordability. The borough’s water system is in need of costly maintenance, and there remains the ongoing issue with PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” contaminating the borough water supply.

There is also an issue brewing between the boroughs and the township regarding the school tax burden and costs that may arise in the boroughs as a result of new

residential development in the township.

“We have to make sure our residents are paying their fair share of taxes,” Kennedy says. “As a tiny municipality, we kind of get squeezed on both ends. Every small project we do has a big impact.”

To improve communication and transparency, Kennedy says, the borough is making an effort to get council meeting agendas out earlier and to put more meetings online. Planning board meetings are now online, and in February, council meetings were changed to two-way meetings online, meaning those in attendance via Zoom can now speak up at meetings.

“You shouldn’t have to have a question or issue (that you wish to raise) that’s babysitter worthy, or worth missing dinner with your family, to conduct business with the government,” Kennedy says.

Kennedy and borough administrator Doug Walker are also now holding dropin sessions at borough hall every other Wednesday and the second Saturday of every month.

“If someone has a business idea or issue with their property, we meet with them, set them up with our zoning officer to work with them if need be. “If they have problems, we want to work with them to solve them. We want to make it clear as a town: if you have an idea, come meet with us. We’ll help you work it out.

Don’t be a party to teenage drinking. It’s against the law.

“It’s great to be able to connect with so many people,” he says. “People I’ve known for a long time, and people I’ve never met before, they’ve been showing up at these sessions to let us know what’s on their mind.”

Kennedy has two daughters: Gloria, a sophomore at Hopewell Valley Central High School, and Pearl, a sixth grader at Timberlane.

In his professional life, Kennedy is a lawyer with Stevens and Lee in Princeton. He specializes in real estate acquisition and development and land-use law, experience that has served him well not only on council and as mayor, but also in his board roles with FoHVOS and the YMCA.

“It’s helpful for me to be able to apply that (experience) to something close to home that I really care about,” he says.

One idea that has come through this process is the possibility of officially designating the borough as an area in need of rehabilitation — a designation pertaining to the state’s local redevelopment and housing law that would enable the borough to adopt a redevelopment plan that offers certain tax benefits for entities within the zone.

When it comes to serving the borough as mayor, Kennedy says he is committed to learning what his constituents care about, and make sure the borough does whatever it can to make it a better place to work with and invest in.

“I’m honored to be a part of a great team here, between the council and staff,” Kennedy says. “We work well together, and we have so many fantastic volunteers. Everyone in the borough loves the town, and to be on the team to keep that moving forward is an absolute honor.”

FACTS ABOUT UNDERAGE DRINKING AND THE LAW:

• It is a criminal offense in NJ to make your home or property available for allowing minors a place to consume alcohol.

• NJ’s Social Host Liability Law imposes civil penalties on social hosts who serve alcohol to minors who subsequently are involved in incidents causing death or injury.

• Drunk driving is a leading cause of death among teens in the U.S.

• Teen drinking can lead to academic problems, car crashes, unplanned pregnancies, changes in brain development, unintentional serious injuries, other drug use and alcohol dependence later in life.

• Binge drinking is common among teens who consume alcohol for the sole reason for getting drunk.

Mayor Ryan Kennedy by the Hopewell Borough train station.

NOTICE TO PERSONS WANTING MAIL-IN BALLOTS

If you are a qualified and registered voter of New Jersey who wants to vote by mail in the Primary Election to be held on June 4, 2024, the following applies:

• You must be registered as a Democrat or Republican by no later than May 28, 2024 to be able to receive a mail-in ballot.

• You must complete the application form below and send it to the county clerk where you reside or write or apply in person to the county clerk where you reside to request a mail-in ballot.

• The name, address, and signature of any person who has assisted you to complete the mail-in ballot application must be provided on the application, and you must sign and date the application.

• No person may serve as an authorized messenger

or bearer for more than three qualified voters in an election but a person may serve as such for up to five qualified voters in an election if those voters are immediate family members residing in the same household as the messenger or bearer.

• No person who is a candidate in the election for which the voter requests a mail-in ballot may provide any assistance in the completion of the ballot or serve as an authorized messenger or bearer.

• A person who applies for a mail-in ballot must submit his or her application so that it is received at least seven days before the election, but such person may request an application in person from the county clerk up to 3 p.m. of the day before the election.

• Voters who want to vote by mail in all future

elections will, after their initial request and without further action on their part, be provided with a mail-in ballot until the voter requests otherwise in writing.

• Application forms may be obtained by applying to the undersigned either in writing or by telephone. Or the application form provided below may be completed and forwarded to the undersigned.

• If you are currently signed up to receive mail-in ballots, but wish to now vote at the polls, either on Election Day or before, in accordance with NJ’s new “Early Voting” law, you must first opt out of vote by mail by notifying the county clerk in writing at the address below. You may find a form for removal from the permanent list on the Mercer County Clerk’s website at https://www.mercercounty.org/ government/county-clerk/elections.

Dated: April 9, 2024, Mercer County Clerk, Paula Sollami Covello, 209 S. Broad St., Election Dept., P.O. Box 8068, Trenton, NJ 08650, 609-989-6495

what?’ They would have nothing for me. I would say ‘Well make something for me please.’”

By her junior year, she told her parents she was ready for public school. But Kelly and Jeffrey Rick took a precautionary approach.

“My mom didn’t want to fully put me there without testing me out,” Sydney said. “I took an English class. We thought if I could get beyond English in a regular classroom without barely any help, I could do any other class. I finished with an A-plus, and it was like ‘Perfect, now I can go to senior year full time.”

While that was all transpiring, Rick was evolving as an athlete. She started as a gymnast at the urging of Kelly, a former gymnastics captain. Although not doing it competitively, Rick took individual and group classes. She didn’t love it, but it was setting her up for another sport.

“I did it just to do the tumbling for cheerleading because I was looking more into that going into high school,” she said. “I wanted to face the fear factor

of doing things I don’t like. My mom thought that would be good. She said anything you can’t do is scary but you have to get over it and you’ll be fine, and the fear factor will go away some day.”

Although she attended Bridge, Rick was able to go out for cheerleading and made the Bulldogs team as a freshman. She has cheered for football all four years in the fall, but in the spring of her freshman year, another sport caught her eye. Not because it looked fun, but because it looked dangerous.

“My parents talked to Oldfield and asked what was going on with track, since no one in my family did it,” Rick recalled. “They didn’t know what I should go in. Oldfield said I should try pole vault.”

Thus, Jeffrey googled a pole vault video and the first one they looked at showed a girl breaking her pole and falling into the pit.

Rather than turn and flee the idea, Sydney was seduced by it.

“I was like, ‘Oh, that looks like fun!’” she said.

Fun?

“I was looking for something that was scary to get over that fear factor again,” Rick said. “When my dad showed me that video I thought, ‘This could be enjoyable.” But I did hope (breaking a pole) wouldn’t happen to me.”

Little did Rick realize she already had a built-in aid for the pole vault.

“She was a former gymnast, and usually you’re looking for something like that in a pole vaulter,” Oldfield said. “They’re not afraid to be upside down and off the ground and all that crazy stuff that pole vaulters need to be successful.”

Rick also had the same desire in track she had in the classroom.

“She was eager, excited, and wanting to learn,” Oldfield said. “She came along nicely.”

It took a while, however, as Rick struggled the first few weeks.

“I didn’t get on the runway much,” she said. “I was mostly doing stuff on the side to learn how to work on the runway. One

day at a Saturday practice I just picked it up. I remember thinking, ‘Oh My God this is so much fun.’” Coach Oldfield and coach (John) Otters helped us out.”

Just how did she adapt so quickly?

“I really don’t know,” Rick said. “It was a really nice day out, I had a really good breakfast, I was having fun with my friends and I was like ‘Oh, this actually is easy.’ It just clicked. It’s not as hard as everyone thinks it is. I do think gymnastics played a part in it.”

Sydney took third in the Colonial Valley Conference meet (there was no county meet that year due to Covid) with a vault of 6-feet, 6-inches. Then came the CJ III sectionals, where in the middle of her event, the rain suspended the competition until the next day. Rather than be thrown off her game, Rick came back to vault 7-feet, 6-inches to win the gold.

“That day was really interesting,” she said. “I got a PR by a foot. It was very exciting. I was shaking, that’s how nervous I was after everything. I’m think-

ing ‘Oh my God, I did this, that’s insane.’”

From there, Rick threw herself into it, going to a pole vault clinic in Columbus and working hard in her free time to improve. Oldfield was not surprised at how quickly she developed.

“She checked a lot of the boxes,” the coach said. “She was fast, she could accelerate down the runway, she had a strong upper body from gymnastics. She was determined, strong willed.”

Oldfield added that gymnastics helped in another way, in that it’s an individual event where all eyes are on the athlete and not a team. That helped transfer to track, where the competitor stands alone amidst the gaze of the crowd.

“She had that individual mindset engrained in her,” Oldfield said.

Starting with her sophomore year, however, “I was going through a block until last spring. I just couldn’t get over eight feet all winter. It frustrated me.”

Rick struggled in the winter of her sophomore year, but in the

spring she won the Hopewell Valley Sophomore/Freshman meet with a mark of 7-0 and took third in the county meet with a then-PR of 8-0. She slid to 7-6 in sectionals and missed advancing to states by one spot.

In the winter of her junior year, Rick took second in the county meet and fifth in CJ II, but still could not surpass 7-6.

Suddenly, when spring arrived, “the block started to break down,” Rick said.

After a disappointing 7-0 in the county meet, Sydney ascended to 9-0 two straight May weekends to take second in the Mercer Coaches Classic and the MCT. That was followed by a PR of 9-6 in the CJ III meet, good for second place. She slipped to 9-0 in states, but the block truly had lifted and her confidence carried into the winter season.

After hitting an indoor PR of 9-0 four straight times (taking second in counties along the way), Rick exploded for a 10-0 vault to win CJ II. She could not advance to Meet of Champions, however, which is the goal this

spring.

“Our school record is 11-1,” Oldfield said. “On any given day she can do that.”

Although pole vault is her main event, Rick helps out wherever needed and has done the shot, javelin, long jump, triple jump, 55 meters, 200 meters and 4x100 relay. Her dedication is endless and Oldfield said “You literally have to kick her out of the weight room. I start hurting watching what she does in there.”

The coach added that Rick constantly helps behind the scenes, answering questions from teammates, cleaning up, putting equipment back in its right place. Sydney feels being at HVCHS fulltime has made a big difference, in that she is able to talk to younger teammates during the day to answer any questions they have.

“When I was going to the Bridge Academy I always felt like I was not connected with the kids in track, even though I knew them,” she said. “I never saw them in the hallway. I’d never eat lunch with

them. When I started going to Hopewell, I started to talk to them, it was more of a social network thing. My senior year has definitely been better. Being here has made me more aware of people who are doing track.”

It has also given her a closer connection with her coach.

“Our communication is a lot better,” Oldfield said. “She’s just grown academically so much – even more than as an athlete – from her freshman year to senior year. I’m not her teacher and what she’s done in the classroom I’ve seen from afar, but from what I see in our communication she is a totally different person.”

Rick actually feels that athletics and academics interlock in a positive way.

“I feel they correlate with one another,” she said. “If I’m doing better in track my academics will be better and If I’m doing well academically it shows in sports. They go hand in hand.”

They will soon go hand-inhand off to college, as Rick’s inspirational story begins its next exciting chapter. Hopewell

Summer Horse Camp 2024!

Summer Horse Camp 2024!

Program Dates:

Program Dates:

Summer Horse Camp 2024!

Beginner Week : July 22-26

Beginner Week: July 22-26

Program Dates:

Beginner / Novice Week: July 28-Aug 2

Beginner / Novice Week: July 28-Aug 2

Beginner Week : July 22-26

Beginner / Novice Week: Aug 5- 9

Beginner / Novice Week: July 28-Aug 2

Beginner / Novice Week: Aug 5- 9

Program Dates:

Beginner / Novice Week: Aug 5- 9

Beginner Week : July 22-26

Beginner / Novice Week: July 28-Aug 2

Beginner / Novice Week: Aug 5- 9

Embrace your horse love at Duncraven Equestrian Center. Participants will learn safety on and around horses and ponies, grooming techniques, riding skills, and other primary horsemanship skills. Sessions aim to help develop confidence and motor-coordination skills while providing a supportive, fun, environment for the participants as well as social interaction between them.

Embrace your horse love at Duncraven Equestrian Center. Participants will learn safety on and around horses and ponies, grooming techniques, riding skills, and other primary horsemanship skills. Sessions aim to help develop confidence and motor-coordination skills while providing a supportive, fun, environment for the participants as well as social interaction between them.

Embrace your horse love at Duncraven Equestrian Center. Participants will learn safety on and around horses and ponies, grooming techniques, riding skills, and other primary horsemanship skills. Sessions aim to help develop confidence and motor-coordination skills while providing a supportive, fun, environment for the participants as well as social interaction between them.

For more information, please contact Pam 609.281.7181

www.duncravenec.com

Embrace your horse love at Duncraven Equestrian Center. Participants will learn safety on and around horses and ponies, grooming techniques, riding skills, and other primary horsemanship skills. Sessions aim to help develop confidence and motor-coordination skills while providing a supportive, fun, environment for the participants as well as social interaction between them.

For more information, please contact Pam 609.281.7181

www.duncravenec.com

For more information, please contact Pam 609.281.7181

www.duncravenec.com

For more information, please contact Pam 609.281.7181

Valley pole vaulter Sydney Rick. (Photo by Aaron Oldfield.)

Talking climate change ’til the cows come home

Lisa

Wolff HAPPY VALLEY

Could land practices in Hopewell, New Jersey hold a key to mitigating worldwide climate change? A select group of land preservation experts will visit our state and consider that question at their annual retreat in April.

D&R Greenway, a community land trust that has preserved over 22,000 acres of local lands, will showcase their partnered work that features uncommon, scientifically proven methods to better utilize preserved lands.

Linda Mead, President and CEO of D&R Greenway Land Trust, is a member of the Land Trust Alliance Leadership Council, an elite group of approximately 50 land trust executive directors representing the Alliance’s 950 land trust member organizations. As of 2020, LTA member organizations had conserved over 61 million acres of private land across the nation – an area larger than all of America’s National Parks combined.

The Leadership Council comprises both geographical and demographic

In addition to burning fossil fuels, it is notable that producing food and cutting down forests rank among the top of every list. Since agriculture and deforestation can deplete resources, land conservation organizations are researching best practices to reduce those negative impacts.

Planting trees, or reforestation, is a familiar and popular solution, with good reason. Trees clean the air, store carbon, and are vital to provide shade, cooling, and water.

That said, reforestation addresses part of the problem, but ignores the need for food production. A lesser-known practice, known as regenerative farming, when implemented correctly may solve the food production issues.

diversity. “Our land trust leaders are often at the forefront on issues of national importance. They ensure that everyone can benefit from all that the land provides,” said Andrew Bowman, president and CEO of the Land Trust Alliance, which convenes the Land Trust Leadership Council. “The impact of each council member goes well beyond the borders of their own organizations’

service areas and will extend well past their tenures as executive directors. This gathering is an opportunity to share challenges and successes and, most importantly, to learn from each other.”

While D&R plans to share their work encouraging Public/Private partnerships, collaborating with Indigenous people, and expanding their audience through integrating the arts, their deepest dive will be showcasing their land practices that can help mitigate climate change.

Linda Mead said: “Preservation is the first step. Land stewardship goes on forever.” She brought in expert partners to do stewardship research at the St. Michaels Farm Preserve. Soil Carbon Partners was tasked with demonstrating how land stewardship methods could help mitigate climate change and Dr. Dan Rubenstein led researchers from Princeton University to validate the SCP results.

* * *

Understanding the Causes. A simple online search for the top causes of global warming returns assorted results.

Understanding the Solutions. As the name suggests, regenerative farming literally focuses on regenerating the soil and the planet’s ecosystems. Regenerative agriculture improves soil, delivers high-quality food, helps fight climate change, and restore lost biodiversity.

Key regenerative farming practices have their roots (pun intended) with indigenous farmers who work with the land rather than against it.

Ed Huling, founder of Soil Carbon Partners, spent significant time explaining the science of his regenerative farming methods and it boils down to improving the soil fertility so that any crops grown there are of higher quality.

Since most soil is depleted of essential minerals, beneficial microbes and other organic matter, the land is less productive. That means fewer plants grow in it and those that do are not as healthy. Further, if those plants are forage crops to feed livestock, animals will need to eat more to grow.

Conversely, when Huling amends and improves the soil quality, whether for farming or forests, plants sequester more

Cows graze during previous research at St. Michaels Farm Preserve. Cows will be back this summer as the research continues. (Photo courtesy of D&R Greenway Land Trust.)

carbon, and crops and livestock grow faster and require far less land to achieve the same yields.

Ideally, we can even use the newly freed up land to plant more forests with amended soil to further boost tree growth, bio-diversity, carbon sequestration, and cooling.

Understanding the research. To demonstrate a full-scale commercial organization, they received a grant from the Grantham Foundation.

Princeton Professor Dan Rubenstein and his research assistant, Gina Talt, monitored the research at St. Michaels Farm Preserve in Hopewell. There were two fields growing animal forage crops with amendments from Soils Carbon Partners, and one control plot which contained grasses and invasive mugwort with unamended soil.

They brought cows out on the land to eat the crops. In the control experiment the cows could roam and graze freely. For the research fields, they employed tightly controlled grazing techniques so cows could only eat at selected areas at treated fields.

Researchers then measured the growth of the cows and forage plants.

Understanding the numbers.

According to the verified research results, the fields with SCP amendments showed a 300-670% increase in crop yield over untreated fields. Additionally, the protein content of the plants was 18-50% higher in the treated.

The dramatic increase in both quantity (yield) and quality (protein) could account for why the cattle gain twice as much weight per day as cattle eating grass without SCP soil amendments.

In other research Huling cited, “When we restore full minerals and soil microbes, it sequesters about 10 times more carbon in soil than other farming methods that do not restore soil.”

Additionally, when amending forested soil, “Trees grow 100-200% faster.”

Understanding how this helps our planet. “Carbon sequestration”

is the process of capturing and storing carbon dioxide. In general, the bigger and healthier the plant, the more carbon sequestered and kept from being released into the atmosphere to produce warming.

An increase of up to 700% in plant yields will not only increase carbon sequestration, but also allow more plants and meat production per acre of land.

According to Huling, “There are billions of acres of grazing lands around the world. We should never need to cut down trees for grazing. What may be missing is restored soil to grow more and better forage.”

Dan Rubenstein, both research lead for this project, and President of FoHVOS, said that in academic circles there is an ongoing debate known as “Share or Spare.” Should we share our landscapes with nature or instead spare large tracts of land for nature’s exclusive use?

Ideally, we can do both. If we can make our agricultural lands highly productive, we can spare some land for reforestation and nature. Both Dr. Rubenstein and Mr. Huling would like to see a mosaic of land use. According to Huling, if we surround our agriculture fields with forested trees both will be healthier since the trees can attract rain.

Understanding the next steps. New Jersey is the most densely populated state in the country. As we near full build out, productive land use becomes increasingly important. Our home state is thus an ideal location to plan for a better future. In April, national experts representing lands from across the spectrum — urban, rural, suburban, even some West Coast ranchers responsible for tens of thousands of acres will visit to discuss whether land practices in Hopewell, New Jersey hold a key to mitigating worldwide climate change.

Traffic safety updates

Courtney Peters-Manning

FROM THE TOWNSHIP

The Hopewell Township Committee often hears from residents concerned about traffic safety. Safety is the number one priority for local government, and we take these traffic concerns seriously and understand the need for immediate action.

On many roads in the Township, though, to get something done, we cannot act directly and must ask our county or state partners to take action. Roads are designated as federal (I- 295), state (for example, Routes 29 and 31), county (for example, Route 579) or local (roads under the direct control of Hopewell Township).

If there is a safety issue on a local road, the township can take action on its own. For example, last year residents spoke with us about pedestrian accidents and near misses at the crosswalk near the Hopewell Crossing Shopping Center on Denow Road.

In response, the township quickly instituted traffic calming measures, including adding rumble strips and more flashing lights. Because Denow is a local road, we did not need to coordinate with any other governmental body and could act quickly and directly.

When county or state roads are involved, on the other hand, action requires more steps and takes more time. For example, Scotch Road (a local road) intersects with Pennington-Harbourton Road and Pennington-Titusville Road (both county roads). Since 2019, there have been 10 crashes at Scotch Road and Pennington-Harbourton Road, including a fatal motorcycle crash, and 13 at Scotch and Pennington-Titusville Road.

Because the intersections involve county roads, any safety improvements on those roads have to be approved by Mercer County. At our Feb. 20 meeting, the Hopewell Township Committee adopted a resolution asking the county to conduct a thorough review of the traffic safety measures at these intersections.

In addition, I personally reached out to the Mercer County director of intergovernmental affairs, and he already has begun working with the county engineer to come up with solutions. Further updates will be available once the county proposes a plan.

This may take a little time, but we are confident that our partners in Mercer County Executive Dan Benson’s administration will take action. We have successfully worked with the county on road safety before, and we are persistent in our advocacy where necessary.

As an example, for many years residents rightly expressed concerns about the 30 mph speed limit in front of Bear Tavern School on County Route 579 during school hours. The Township Committee continuously advocated for this as well, and working with county commissioner (and former Hopewell Township Mayor) Kristin McLaughlin,

was able to get the the speed limits in front of the school lowered to 25 mph last year, with lower speed buffer zones being added as well.

Further, also at our Feb. 20 meeting, and in coordination with our partners in Hopewell Borough, we passed a resolution requesting that the county lower the speed limits on HopewellPennington Road/West Broad Street (County Route 654) and Louellen Street (County Route 518). Hopewell Borough had requested that the county implement a 25 mph speed limit within the borough, and in order to allow drivers time to safely slow down, there must be buffer zone speed limits surrounding the new 25 mph zone.

The county took quick action, and this change has already been implemented. These speed limits in the township have been lowered to 25 mph, 35 mph, and then 40 mph as you drive away from the borough. Be on the lookout for increased traffic patrols by the Hopewell Township Police Department to enforce the new zones.

Things get even more complicated when a state road is involved. Then, we must work with the Department of Transportation. For example, there have been long-standing concerns about safety at the intersection of State Route 31 and

Ingleside Avenue (County Route 631).

As of January, in the last three years alone, there have been 28 crashes at that intersection, with nine resulting in injuries.

This is not acceptable. The township has requested that DOT conduct a traffic study as the first step in installing a full traffic signal at the intersection, and last year we committed to pay 25% of the cost. We would like this to be moving along more quickly, but we are pushing as hard as we can and will continue to work with the county and DOT to get this done.

The Hopewell Township Committee is committed to doing whatever we can to improve safety on our roads and highways. Even when we do not have the power to change speed limits or traffic measures on our own, we have built solid relationships with our county and state partners, who are willing to work with us to make these critical improvements.

If you know of an area in the township that could potentially benefit from increased traffic safety measures, please reach out. My email is cpeters-manning@ hopewelltwp.org, and my cell is (609) 577-3312.

Courtney Peters-Manning is the mayor of Hopewell Township, which provided this content.

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Snow shovel away

Robin Schore

It might be spring, but we did have three or four real snowfalls this season. It’s hard to remember how many when we’ve been counting to zero for so many years.

workout that beats the pointlessness of treadmills and lifting weights. Of course, be sure to lift snow with your legs, not your back, so as to spare everyone in your household from your moaning, “My back is killing me.”

Still, snowfalls inspire joy with thoughts of sledding, children building snowmen, cross-country skiing and an uncontrollable impulse to hum old standards like “Let It Snow,” “Frosty the Snowman” and “Susie Snowflake.” (Feel free to sing along.)

Then, there’s the compulsion to take fun-in-the-snow photographs. On the downside, however, is the overwhelming inner drive, not to mention the legal requirement, to shovel that snow.

Snow shoveling is not only wonderful exercise but productive, and you can see what you’ve accomplished as your snow piles rise and your driveway is exposed. It’s the next best thing to alpine skiing and so much cheaper.

Let’s examine proper equipment: Gloves or mittens? That is the question.

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Hopewell Township has a nine-section ordinance governing snow removal. Hopewell Borough has a four-paragraph ordinance. Incredibly efficient Pennington posts five sentences. The upshot is that you’d best be on your best behavior regarding snow removal, or you’ll be in trouble.

Don’t you dare push snow into the street or block storm drains or cover hydrants.

In the borough, “Any unoccupied vehicle parked or standing in violation of this subsection shall be deemed a nuisance and a menace to the safe and proper clearing and removal of snow and regulation of traffic.” Did you ever think that your car could be both a nuisance and a menace?

In addition, one must choose among at least five types of snow shovels: The standard flat shovel for lifting and tossing snow. The push shovel with the arced blade that works best for pushing, (not lifting, stupid). The ergonomic shovel with a curved handle and grabber that makes moving snow less of a strain. The telescope shovel that folds and can be kept in the car. And the little kids shovel designed to break quickly and be left in the driveway to be run over.

Of course, before you start shoveling, make sure that you do not look at any websites detailing the many dangers related to shoveling snow.

“Most injuries occur from either overexertion while shoveling or slipping and falling on ice.” People over 55 appear to be most vulnerable.

The American Heart Association cautions that “snow shoveling may carry increased risks for a cardiac event.” Is Valentine’s Day a cardiac event?

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In addition to worry about defying the law is the deep-seated paranoia over being sued by someone who slips on your sidewalk and lies there long enough for photographs and eyewitness reports to be gathered by their ambulance chasing lawyer-cousin. Think about the fortunes that could be made and lost if you fail to clear your sidewalk.

It’s at times like these that we envy the lucky people who live deep in the Hopewell wilderness where there are no sidewalks. Of course, they are marooned in their houses and have to wait for the spring thaw to rejoin civilization.

Snow removal produces other little treats, like the anguish experienced when just after you’ve shoveled your sidewalk and driveway, the town plow comes by and spreads a gigantic mountain of snow over the vast area you’ve cleared, blocking the driveway and re-covering the sidewalk.

Slightly less exasperating is the tendency of oblivious little kids to pile up snow on the very spot you just cleared.

The actual process of shoveling snow is a genuine art full of benefits. It’s a great

Don’t ignore the cold factor. “Cold weather can increase heart rate and blood pressure. It can make blood clot more easily and constrict arteries, which decreases blood supply. This is true even in healthy people. Individuals over the age of 40 or who are relatively inactive should be particularly careful.” Time to get off the couch.

“Talk to your doctor before shoveling snow. Not everyone is physically fit enough to shovel,” advises one site. Did you make that call? If not, you might already be dead.

Clearly, the decline in local snowstorms is a lifesaver.

Shoveling creates a subtle awareness of snow: of shoveling heavy snow which is really hard to move or light snow which blows in your face as you try to move it.

Then there’s the unpleasant discovery that after you’ve removed the top layers of snow, you’ve uncovered a sheet of ice far more treacherous than what you just shoveled. Perhaps, it’s best not to leave the couch.

Robin

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HOPEWELL BORO

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

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1000 Main Street — web #2967803

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

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HOPEWELL

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

59 Taylor Terrace - web#2040456

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1000 Main Street — web #2967803

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Sprawling 4,788 SF with 5 bedroom/5.5 bath, 26 windows and 3 exposures. 82’ south facing terrace.

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Jane Agent : 212.555.5555

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1000 Main Street — web #2967803

HOPEWELL

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

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64 E. Broad St. - web#2040320

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$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home.

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home.

$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home. Sprawling 4,788 SF with 5 bedroom/5.5 bath, 26 windows and 3 exposures. 82’ south facing terrace.

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Jane Agent : 212.555.5555

Jane Agent : 212.555.5555

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1000 Main Street — web #2967803

LAWRENCE

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

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0 Washington Crossing Pennington Rd. - web#2040522

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home.

$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home.

$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home. Sprawling 4,788 SF with 5 bedroom/5.5 bath, 26 windows and 3 exposures. 82’ south facing terrace.

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$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home.

$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home. Sprawling 4,788 SF with 5 bedroom/5.5 bath, 26 windows and 3 exposures. 82’ south facing terrace.

Sprawling 4,788 SF with 5 bedroom/5.5 bath, 26 windows and 3 exposures. 82’ south facing terrace.

Jane Agent : 212.555.5555

Jane Agent : 212.555.5555

Elisabeth Kerr: 609.737.1500

Sprawling 4,788 SF with 5 bedroom/5.5 bath, 26 windows and 3 exposures. 82’ south facing terrace.

Jane Agent : 212.555.5555

HEADLINE

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1000 Main Street — web #2967803

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

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HOPEWELL

$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home.

$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home.

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

23 W Shore Dr. - web#2037606

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Sprawling 4,788 SF with 5 bedroom/5.5 bath, 26 windows and 3 exposures. 82’ south facing terrace.

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Jane Agent : 212.555.5555

Jane Agent : 212.555.5555

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1000 Main Street — web #2967803

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

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HAMILTON

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Jane Agent : 212.555.5555

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3 Bethany Ave. - web#2040368

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$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home.

Sprawling 4,788 SF with 5 bedroom/5.5 bath, 26 windows and 3 exposures. 82’ south facing terrace.

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Jane Agent : 212.555.5555

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HEADLINE

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

HAMILTON

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

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345 Ward Ave. - web#2039210

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home.

$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home.

$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home. Sprawling 4,788 SF with 5 bedroom/5.5 bath, 26 windows and 3 exposures. 82’ south facing terrace.

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Sprawling 4,788 SF with 5 bedroom/5.5 bath, 26 windows and 3 exposures. 82’ south facing terrace.

Jane Agent : 212.555.5555

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1000 Main Street — web #2967803

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

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LAWRENCE

1000 Main Street — web #2967803

$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home.

12 Alleghany Ave. - web#2037632

$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home.

$17,500,000 – Extraordinary 10-room home. Sprawling 4,788 SF with 5 bedroom/5.5 bath, 26 windows and 3 exposures. 82’ south facing terrace.

Sprawling 4,788 SF with 5 bedroom/5.5 bath, 26 windows and 3 exposures. 82’ south facing terrace.

Jane Agent : 212.555.5555

Jane Agent : 212.555.5555

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HOPEWELL VALLEY OFFICE

HOPEWELL VALLEY OFFICE

2 NJ-31, Pennington, NJ 08534 o. 609.737.1500 corcoranss.com

2 NJ-31, Pennington, NJ 08534 o. 609.737.1500 corcoranss.com