Hopewell Valley soccer players pile on game-winning, double-overtime goal scorer Meg Kurian after her goal at Robbinsville gave HoVal a 2-1 win and the outright CVC title on Oct. 15, 2024. (Photo by Suzette Lucas.)
Mayer keeps it simple as HoVal soccer heads down the right path
BY RICH FISHER
As a center back, Clara Mayer plays a rugged position on the soccer field and she plays it well by not doing anything more than needs to be done.
“I’d say (the key is) probably just playing simply,” the Hopewell Valley Central High senior said. “I think sometimes if I get too focused on trying
to do complicated things It can often lead to some not-ideal situations. I try to focus on just doing the basics — not letting people turn, stepping to the ball early – rather than super complicated things.
“I definitely focus on the ball the most. I feel like you can really get swept up when people are doing crazy moves and stuff. You can get drawn away from
the ball. The most important part is focusing on the ball.”
Mayer’s simplicity has made her a top defender on one of the top defensive teams in the Colonial Valley Conference. Through a 12-2-2 start, which earned the top seed in the Colonial Valley Conference Tournament, Hopewell had allowed 13 goals and recorded nine shutouts.
See SOCCER, Page 14
EDITED BY JOE EMANSKI
Wilson-Apple Funeral Home
Robert A. Wilson, Founder NJ Lic #2520
609-737-1498
Cromwell Memorial Home
R. Asher Wilson, Manager NJ Lic # 3823/Pa Lic # FD-000766
609-466-0233
Wilson-Apple Funeral Home
R. Asher Wilson, Manager, Owner NJ Lic # 3823/Pa Lic # FD-000766
609-737-1498
Hopewell Township, Hopewell Borough, Lawrenceville, Ewing, Pennington, Titusville, Blawenburg and Princeton.
More support for Purandare in township committee race
I am writing to support Uma Purandare for re-election to the Hopewell Township Committee. Her decades-long efforts to improve our community along with her effective leadership skills are truly exceptional. Uma is clearly the most qualified candidate for the position. Knowing her as a friend and neighbor for over 20 years, I have been impressed by her willingness to learn new things and her work for the good of our community.
In addition to creating and supporting inclusive Township events, including a financial planning workshop, a multicultural festival, and a valley wide food drive, Uma worked behind the scenes with state and local agencies to spearhead the project to install a bus shelter in front of ShopRite. Uma has always spoken about her adherence to law, science, and service to the people of Hopewell Township. Uma’s three years on the Hopewell Township Committee have shown me that she is
thoroughly committed to those ideals.
Julie Blake
Hopewell
Julie Blake is a former Hopewell Township mayor.
As election day is right around the corner, I want to express my strong support for Hopewell Township’s Deputy Mayor, Uma Purandare in her re-election to the Hopewell Township Committee. I personally know Uma as a great neighbor and the same qualities that make her a positive pillar of our neighborhood also make her an excellent leader for the entire Township. Both Uma and I served as volunteers on the township Zoning Board where she made decisions with care for all parties and a professional respect for our local laws that help protect us against over development and potentially dangerous climate events. See LETTERS, 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.
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RWJUH Hamilton November Healthy Living / Community Education Programs
“DO IT YOURSELF” BASIC CAR MAINTENANCE
Wednesday, Nov, 6; 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Maintaining your auto can be stressful, but we invite you to join us and hear from a local expert to get some tips and tricks about basic maintenance. This will be an interactive discussion on easy “Do it Yourself” auto maintenance, and how you can get your vehicle ready for the changing seasons.
AUTUMN HEARING AID EXPO
Thursday, Nov 7; 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.
Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D, will discuss today’s “computers for your ears” along with a hands-on demonstration of the latest in hearing aid technology. Technological advances today in hearing aids allow folks to stream music, TV, and more with ease! New technology offers better hearing in noise, tinnitus therapy and helps protect our brains as we age. Included will be hands-on demonstration from representatives from the companies “Unitron” and “Signia”.
FEAST ON FACTS: ATRIAL FIBRILLATION
Thursday, Nov 7; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Join this presentation by Zaw Win Tun, MD, Cardiologist, RWJUH Hamilton, and member of Hamilton Cardiology Associates (HCA), as we explore AFib. Dr. Tun will offer easy-to-understand medical insights into facts about AFib, its causes, symptoms, and how it can affect overall heart health.
*This program will offer registered participants a healthy dinner selection.
A SENIOR SOCIAL GROUP
WHAT’S
EATING YOU?
HOW TO CURB YOUR EMOTIONAL EATING DURING THE HOLIDAYS
Monday, Nov 11; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Support group for people experiencing emotional eating. Peer support is key. We offer a safe space to connect with others who are going through similar experiences.
WOMEN’S BOOK CLUB: “LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY” BY BONNIE GARMUS
Monday, Nov. 11; 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Join us to discuss this amazing novel, “Lessons in Chemistry.” A gifted research chemist in the 1960’s becomes the unlikely star of a beloved TV cooking show, teaching women to cook and daring them to change the status quo.
HELP IMPROVE YOUR MEMORY
Thursday, Nov 14; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Are you or a family member concerned about memory loss? Listen to what might affect memory and ways to improve it. Participants should arrive between 10:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. to complete NJ’s mini-mental memory examination.
CLEAN LIVING IN A TOXIC WORLD
Thursday, Nov 14; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Toxins are all around us: in the air we breathe, the products we use and the food we eat. Learn what these toxins can do to our body and ways to avoid them and live a cleaner life. Patti McDougall, BSN, Integrative Therapies Nurse.
Wednesday, Nov 6, 13, 20, 27; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Please join us for our ongoing “Senior Social Group.” Gather with us in a collaborative setting to exchange thoughts, feelings, and experiences with your peers. This is a safe zone designed to be welcoming for all attendees while exploring this season of our lives – the ups and the challenges. This is a weekly program. Please feel free to attend one or all.
HOPE FOR A BRIGHT FUTURE: A LUNCH AND LEARN WITH RWJUH HAMILTON EXPERTS
Thursday, Nov 7; 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Today lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in New Jersey and in the nation, but thanks to early detection and treatment advancements, the future is bright.
CAREGIVER
CONFERENCE: CARING FOR THE CAREGIVER
Friday, Nov 15; 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Caregivers of older adults and/or caring for those with dementia and memory loss are invited to attend this powerful conference. Rutgers Health, University Behavioral Health Care, Comprehensive Services on Aging (COPSA), and the Institute for Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders will present on Managing Challenging Behaviors: Strategies for Preventing and Coping when caring for someone with memory loss. There will also be an Elder Care Attorney who will present on estate planning, power of attorney, health care POA, wills, trusts, Medicaid planning, long-term planning options and how to pay for them.
DANCE IT OUT!
Thursday, Nov 18; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Boost your well-being through the joy of dance. Whether you are a beginner or experienced dancer, this activity will lift your spirits and reduce stress. No experience required; all ages are welcome.
MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS
Tuesday, Nov 19; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, Nov 20; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Learn this simple, but not always easy practice to quiet your mind and soothe your body. No experience necessary.
“WII” ARE POWERED GAME TIME
Wednesday, Nov. 20; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Join RWJ Rehabilitation & Physical
Join us for a hopeful conversation and discussion with our panel of experts: Benjamin Medina, MD, Thoracic and Vascular Surgeon, the Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton; Kevin Law, MD, RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group member, Critical Care Medicine, Pulmonary Disease & Sleep Medicine at RWJUH Hamilton; and Kaidlan Ricardo, CMA, BS-HA, Lung Cancer Screening Program Manager, RWJUH Hamilton.
YOGA CLASSES
Tuesday, Nov 19 + 26; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
MEDITATION CLASSES
Tuesday, Nov 19 + 26; 11:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Therapy specialists, RWJUH Hamilton, for this fun hour of Wii video games and learn about safe mechanics. Mastering body movement is leveling up your real-life stats. Play smart, move like a pro, and stay in the game longer!
DINNER WITH A DOCTOR: RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS
Wednesday, Nov 20; 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Join and hear from Seth Rosenbaum, MD, MMM, Senior Vice President, Chief Medical Officer, RWJUH Hamilton, and member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group, who also specializes in infectious diseases. The winter season brings seasonal colds, and Dr. Rosenbaum will thoroughly review what the difference is between the multitudes of respiratory viruses. *This program will offer registered participants a healthy dinner selection. Registration is required.
HEALTHRHYTHMS® DRUM CIRCLE
Wednesday, Nov 20; 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Join our drum circle to drum your cares away, have fun and relieve stress. No experience necessary, drums will be provided. Mauri Tyler, CTRS,CMP. $15 Scan QR code to view, learn
OSTEOPOROSIS SCREENING
Thursday, Nov 21; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Osteoporosis screening using ultrasound is a non-invasive method to assess bone density and evaluate the risk of fractures. Appointments required.
WANTED! HOLIDAY CRAFTERS AND VENDORS
RWJUH Hamilton is hosting a Holiday Shopping Fair, open to the public, Friday, December 6, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., at the hospital. Table reservations require a $50 fee (table included). To learn more and reserve a table to become a vendor, please email CommunityEdHam@rwjbh.org
WANTED! KNITTING YARN
RWJUH Hamilton’s volunteer Knitting Group needs our help and is accepting yarn donations. The Knitting Group knits exclusively for our patients. Donations should include good-quality yarn, all colors, preferred weight #3 or #4, and half-used skeins from unfinished projects are welcome. Donations can be dropped off at RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, located at 3100 Quakerbridge Rd., Hamilton, NJ, now through Friday, November 29, 2024.
*All programs require registration and are held at the RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd., Hamilton, NJ, unless otherwise noted.
Tuesday, Nov 19 + 26; 12:00 p.m. - 12:45 p.m.
MONTHLY MEN’S GROUP
Wednesday, Nov 13; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Who said men don’t talk? Men need a safe space to share thoughts and feelings too. That’s why this is a women-free zone just for men to talk about whatever is on their minds. This program will be led by Ted Taylor, Director, Spiritual Care and Volunteerism, and Coordinator, Palliative Care and Bioethics.
TAI CHI CLASSES
Thursday, Nov 14; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
AROMATHERAPY, LET’S
LEARN AND CREATE
Wednesday, Nov 20; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Lisa Bayer, Director from Always Best Care Senior Services, will discuss the connection between smell and memory, teach us how to create a Lavender Sachet and a Pumpkin Spiced Sugar Body Scrub. This will be a fun and informative class.
FRIENDSGIVING LUNCH
Thursday, Nov 21; 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Happy Thanksgiving! Whether you come alone to meet new people or to catch up with old friends, join our Better Health Program family for an enjoyable Friendsgiving meal and reflect on what you are most grateful for. Looking forward to kicking off the holiday season with you!
CHAIR YOGA
Uma truly understands what makes our township special and she genuinely cares about protecting it. She’s committed to improving our quality of life while ensuring that our community is an affordable place to live. With analytical determination, she helped keep the Township’s budget increase below inflation. She has worked together with our own neighboring communities to solve common challenges, negotiating our emergency shared services agreement with Pennington and Hopewell Boroughs and collaborating with County officials to bring a new
traffic light to a dangerous intersection. Uma is not only a capable leader, but her hard work and enthusiasm make our community a better place to live.
Brian McInerney Pennington
Deputy Mayor and Democratic candidate for Hopewell Township Committee Uma Purandare has proven in her first term that she understands environmental issues and how to respond to them. She is a true ally for open space preservation of fragile ecosystems, and for the past 3 years has become quite
Hopewell Pharmacy
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knowledgeable about the issues facing Hopewell’s natural environment.
Purandare has joined others on the Committee in taking action to help protect our Valley’s rural character while meeting the pressure for affordable housing as required by the state Supreme Court. Her scientist background has served us well in facing these challenges, and I am constantly impressed by her insight and commitment to our residents and professionals as she brings her analytical eye to the table.
Early voting begins Oct. 26 and Election Day is Nov. 5. You can vote by mail as well.
Carol Kleis Titusville
Grateful for emergency services
When our daughter was 1 year old, we woke up in the middle of the night to find her having a seizure due to a high fever. At the time, my husband and I were new parents and inexperienced to say the least. Being woken up in the middle of the night is never an enjoyable experience. But when your young child is having a medical emergency, the situation is shocking and terrifying.
Democrat
Somehow, I managed to find my cell phone and immediately dialed 911. As we told the dispatch operator that our daughter was having a seizure, I recall every minute waiting for the ambulance felt like an eternity. Finally, the EMTs arrived, and they were able tend to our daughter. This was the scariest night of our lives. But luckily, our daughter has been able to grow out of her febrile seizures over the years.
I recently learned that Hopewell Township has secured $600,000 in state grants to upgrade its 911 system. I felt a relief knowing that if we ever needed to dial 911 again in the middle of the night, our call would be promptly taken and not lost to an antiquated system. I know firsthand that every minute and second in an emergency is very important.
Thanks to Mayor Peters-Manning, Committee Members David Chait and others, Township Administrator George Snyder, and the support of our State Assembly Representatives Anthony Verrelli and Verlina Reynolds-Jackson and Sen. Shirley Turner. I am grateful as a Hopewell Township resident for these critical upgrades and improved safety for our children and all of our residents.
Helen Young Hopewell Township
Re-Elect Deputy Mayor
Uma Purandare
for Hopewell Township Committee
I understand the complex issues we face and have been working tirelessly on your behalf
Vote Early!
Oct 26th to Nov 3rd
Pennington Fire Company
120 Broemel Place 10am to 8pm (6pm on Sunday)
Holding the Line on Township Spending
Closely reviewed the Township budget and made hard choices to keep spending down Held Township’s budget to a less than 2% increase, well below the rate of inflation
Continue to pay down Township debt for long-term savings
Defending our Environment and Rural Character
Helped preserve hundreds of acres of open space and farmland
Led effort for Hopewell Township’s certification as an eco-friendly community by Sustainable NJ
Building Community
Supported expansion of our Police Department
Launched the first multi-cultural festival in the Township
Expanded services from the Health Department, caring for the health and safety of the entire Hopewell Valley Your
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. In-person class size is limited. Please register early. Zoom meeting details will be provided via email 2 – 3 days before the program date. Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.
Dementia: Recognize the Signs
Thursday, November 14, 2024 | 9:30 a.m.
Location: Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell NJ PURE Conference Center, One Capital Way, Pennington, NJ 08534
Is forgetfulness a sign of underlying dementia or just a normal part of the aging process? Join DR. AHMAD FAROOQ, a geriatric medicine doctor and medical director of Capital Health LIFE (a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly), to discuss this common question and the cognitive issues we may encounter as we age. A light breakfast will be served.
Maximizing Brain Health
Monday, November 18, 2024 | 6 p.m.
Location: Zoom Meeting
If you’re concerned that you are not as sharp as you used to be, there are steps you can take right now to reduce cognitive decline. DR. RAJIV VYAS from Capital Health – Behavioral Health Specialists will share strategies to keep your brain sharp and reduce memory loss.
Around Town Sourland Mountain Spirits closes
Sourland Mountain Spirits founder and principal Ray Disch took to Instagram on Oct. 16 to announce that the Hopewell-based distillery is going out of business.
The distillery held a three-day goingout-of-business sale Oct. 18, 19 and 20 before closing its doors for good. Since opening, the distillery had been located on the grounds of Double Brook Farm, 130 Hopewell Rocky Hill Road, Hopewell Township.
Sourland Mountain Spirits was a small-batch distillery that makes vodka, gin and bourbon. Founded by Disch in 2015, it produced its first products in March 2017.
F.I.S.H. of Hopewell Valley dissolved
Friends in Service Here of Hopewell Valley, the grassroots local meal delivery program, legally dissolved, effective Sept. 30. The all-volunteer nonprofit organization served homebound seniors for more than 50 years throughout Hopewell Township.
As needs have changed, homebound seniors are more often requesting medically tailored meals, and Meals on Wheels of Mercer County can provide these in addition to financial need-based pricing.
When Sourland Mountain Spirits opened, it was one of several complementary businesses that started up at the Double Brook Farm site, which is owned by Robin and Jon McConaughey. The others were Brick Farm Tavern, a restaurant specializing in seasonal, local cuisine, and Troon Brewing, a quirky microbrewery owned by Alex Helms.
“I’ve got some sad news and also exciting news-ish,” Disch said in a video posted to Instagram. “We’re gonna be closing after a great year 10-year run. I want to thank all our employees and all of our customers and everybody who came and supported us over the years. And I’m very very thankful for everything.”
F.I.S.H. said that it wants to accommodate its patrons as best as possible, and this transition ensures the tradition of caring service will continue through MOWMC.
“As we close the chapter on an amazing run, we kindly thank Mike Rothwell and Catering Directors Sandy Gares and Diana Meskill at Pennington Quality Market for their incredible support of our program for decades. Additionally, we express tremendous gratitude for all our F.I.S.H. volunteers. These individuals are compassionate, dedicated and they embody the spirit of serving their community. They are neighbors helping neighbors, a truly rewarding experience they will preserve when delivering meals with MOWMC,” says Benita Wittenborn, F.I.S.H co-coordinator.
“We recognize how important F.I.S.H.
Erica, Sage and Ray Disch were the family team behind Sourland Mountain Spirits.
has been to the Hopewell Pennington Community — neighbors helping neighbors by providing hot, delicious meals, as well as love and compassion to friends in need. MOWMC is honored to be entrusted to continue this remarkable legacy of caring” says Amy Flynn, MOWMC CEO.
To enroll in the meal delivery program or to volunteer to serve neighbors in need, call (609)695-3483.
For more information, visit mealsonwheelsmercer.org.
Washington Crossing Park receives grant for historic landmark update
The Washington Crossing Park Association of New Jersey has received a $75,000 National Park Service Semiquincentennial Grant to update the National Historic Landmark Boundary for Washington’s Crossing.
Americans have the image of “Washington Crossing the Delaware” engraved into our national soul, thanks to the famous painting by Emmanuel Leutze. Some know that the site of the Crossing is marked by two state parks: Washington Crossing State Park in New Jersey, and Washington Crossing Historic Park in Pennsylvania.
However, few people are aware that the National Historic Landmark that marks the historic site is one of the few that straddle two states. This NHL update will occur in collaboration with the Pennsylvania sister park, which has received a similar grant.
The original 1961 NHL listing for both parks was incomplete. With the grants, the two parks plan to undertake a complete update to the current boundary delineation of this bi-state National Historic Landmark. That includes an analysis of existing NHL boundaries of both parks’ state and national register nominations, along with updating descriptions for all the landmark’s cultural and historic resources to incorporate current research and present a more inclusive interpretation of the site.
The update is being supported in whole by a Semiquincentennial grant from the Historic Preservation Fund administered by the National Park Service, Department of the Interior.
The update will make the park eligible for much-needed future funding as it prepares for a restoration which will include a new Visitor Museum, new roadways and signage, and the installation of a stunning mural of Washington Crossing the Delaware, painted in 1921 by military artist George Matthew Harding.
The Washington Crossing Park Association, which is the officially recognized Friends organization of New Jersey’s Washington Crossing State Park, has also received funding to renovate the Park’s Nelson House, near the Delaware River.
Township to make traffic signal improvements at Route 31 and Ingleside Avenue
Hopewell Township Mayor Courtney Peters-Manning and the Township Committee are pleased to announce that Hopewell Township is making significant strides in improving safety at the busy intersection of Ingleside Avenue (Mercer County Route 631) and State Route 31. Long a concern of community members, the Township Committee has been asking the Department of Transportation to install a full signal there for years.
The committee passed a resolution in June 2023 requesting a cost-sharing agreement with the DOT for this critical traffic signal improvement. The agreement with the DOT was signed this week and the flashing light will be upgraded to a full traffic signal in 2025.
The intersection is problematic because the current flashing signal does not provide adequate gaps for drivers to turn onto Route 31 or cross over to Ingleside Avenue. Local residents have voiced their concerns about the dangers of this intersection, where risky maneuvers have become all too common. The Hopewell Township Police Department has reported 31 crashes in the last three years—11 of which resulted in injuries— highlighting the urgent need for change.
“As traffic has increased in the township, the intersection at Ingleside Avenue and Route 31 has proven to be a safety concern. In recent years the number of accidents and near-misses has definitely grown,” said police chief James Rosso. “Installing a fully functional traffic light at this intersection is a collaborative proactive measure by our township committee and the community to enhance the safety of drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. By regulating the flow of traffic with this new signal, we can reduce accidents, improve visibility, and ensure smoother, safer travel for everyone in our community.”
Residents have expressed concerns about not only vehicle safety but also the need for safer passage for pedestrians and cyclists. The new traffic signal will help ease those worries, providing smoother access onto and across Route 31 and enhancing safety for everyone— whether in a car, on foot, or on a bike.
The township committee believes it See STORY, Page 9
Items
Apple
to Donate
Boxed Stuffing
Boxed Mac & cheese
Gravy package
Corn bread mix
Canned Cranberry sauce
Canned veggies
Snacks Bars
Canned Pasta
Canned Soup
Opportunities for the whole family! We offer different classes for all age groups and levels of experience. We even have a Little Dragons class where children (age 3-5) can develop motor skills, improve listening skills, build confidence, discipline and self-esteem.
Juniper Village at Hamilton: Five Advantages to Moving During the Holidays
Tang Soo Do
Jujitsu
Katas
Weapons Training
Self-Defense
Moving to a senior living community over the holiday season may seem like a difficult decision. However, there are many benefits of a holiday transition!
1 ) Reduced Stress: The holidays can be a hectic time for everyone, but for older adults and their families, the pressure to host, prepare, and maintain can be overwhelming. Senior living communities alleviate this stress by providing staff to handle meals, housekeeping, and other daily tasks, allowing everyone to focus on enjoying the season.
* * *
2) Enhanced Connection with Others: During the holidays, loneliness can be a significant issue for older adults, especially those living alone. Senior living communities offer opportunities for socialization and sharing with others, which helps to foster purpose and belonging.
* * *
3) Safety and Wellbeing: The holiday season can pose safety risks, such as falls due
to slippery surfaces or poor weather conditions. Senior living communities provide a safe and secure environment with staff readily available to assist with daily activities and emergencies.
* * *
4) Peace of Mind for Family: For family caregivers, the holidays can add extra strain to already demanding schedules. Senior living communities provide peace of mind by ensuring that their loved ones have access to the services they need around the clock.
* * *
5) Access to Holiday Festivities and Events: Communities like Juniper organize an array of special holiday events, including festive meals, entertainment, and group outings. These programs provide opportunities to meet new people and celebrate the season in a joyful atmosphere.
Juniper Village at Hamilton, 1750 Yardville-Hamilton Square Road, Hamilton Square. 609-4210300. junipercommunities.com.
Class of 2025 Cum Laude Society inductees at The Pennington School include (front row) Shreya Mookherje, Olivia Kaczynska, Sophia May, Olivia Cano, Nina Feder Benjamin Pearlberg and (back row) Caleb Collins, Siyi Yang, Xiaona (Jenny) Zhu, Dingtong (Aimee) Zou, Jinxuan (Ethan) Qi and Moyang (Eliza) Zou.
STORY continued from Page 7
will also result in improved circulation for important local routes, including the proposed Great Western Bikeway, which, when complete, will increase the number of cyclists crossing Route 31 at this intersection.
“Ensuring the safety of our residents is at the heart of what we do,” said PetersManning. “We are grateful to the NJDOT for its commitment to reducing road hazards. This is a big win for Hopewell Township and everyone who crosses through this intersection.”
12 seniors from The Pennington School join Cum Laude Society
Twelve Pennington School seniors were inducted as student members of the School’s chapter of the Cum Laude Society on Oct. 15. Students inducted are within the top ten percent of their class, as determined by grade point average, and the School views selection for membership as one of the highest honors it can confer.
Inductees were Olivia Kaczynska, Olivia Cano and Caleb Collins of Lawrence; Shreya Mookherjee of Pennington; Nina Feder, Jinxuan “Ethan” Qi, Xiaona “Jenny” Zhu, Dingtong “Aimee” Zou of Princeton, Sophia May of Stockton, Benjamin Pearlberg of Yardley, Pennsylvania, Siyi Yang of Cambridge, Massachusetts and Moyang “Eliza” Zou of Shang-
hai, China.
The Cum Laude Society is an international organization dedicated to recognizing academic achievement in secondary schools. The Society consists of over 380 institutions, mostly independent schools, located across the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, the Philippines, England, France, Spain, and the Philippines. Annually, approximately 4,000 new student members are welcomed into the Society.
The induction ceremony was held in Pennington United Methodist Church. After an invocation from the Rev. David Hallgren, head of school William S. Hawkey gave a welcome address.
Information about the Cum Laude Society’s history and motto was provided by Teacher of Music Donald Dolan, and Dean of Academic Affairs Scott Peeler introduced the faculty members in Pennington’s Cum Laude chapter. Science Department Chair Stephanie Heyeck introduced the event’s speaker, Teacher of History Jason Harding. Cum Laude Chapter President Lisa L. Houston then formally inducted the newest student members.
The Pennington School is an independent coeducational school for students in grades 6 through 12, in both day and boarding programs. The curriculum is college preparatory, with an emphasis on individual excellence, fostering the development of the whole student through academics, athletics, community service, and the creative and performing arts.
Web: pennington.org.
Fluid Physio will be at the Hopewell Valley Turkey Trot to
With NJ’s highest ranked pediatric orthopedics and urology programs.
We are nationally ranked in pediatric orthopedics at The Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and in pediatric urology at The Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital, Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, and Unterberg Children’s Hospital at Monmouth Medical Center. And we’re also New Jersey’s largest provider of children’s healthcare.
From primary care to specialized treatments and therapies and in partnership with Rutgers Health, our Children’s Health network provides outstanding care, advanced research and teaching from renowned physicians and clinicians, with an emphasis on the social determinants of health that help to improve the health and well-being of every child in every community. Learn more at rwjbh.org/ChildrensHealth
Holiday House Tour
SOCCER continued from Page 1
And while good defense in soccer also depends on the midfielders and forwards coming back to help, it all starts with the solid back four of Mayer and junior Katie Reinhart in the middle and seniors Charlotte Barnes and Gianna Azara on the outside. Behind them is stellar senior goalie Chloe LiVecchi.
Barnes and Azara were both forwards who were moved back.
“Now we have two kids on the outside who are fast, athletic and can defend against fast, quick kids,” coach John McGinley said. “You want them both on top and in the back, but they’ve settled in as good defenders.”
Mayer has served as an anchor for the defense after growing up as a center-midfielder.
She comes from a soccer family. Her dad, Chris, was an All-Ivy player for Princeton University and was famous for doing impersonations of then-coach Bob Bradley and the legendary soccer guru Manfred Schellscheidt. Older brother Finn played for the Bulldogs several years ago.
Clara started in kindergarten with Hopewell Recreation and moved to Hopewell travel where she played for her
dad. From fourth to eighth grade a large nucleus of the current Bulldogs varsity were on that team before Mayer left for two years at NLSA.
Asked what her coaches liked about her as a center-midfielder, Clara was refreshingly honest.
“Probably not a ton,” she said. “Maybe passing. I’m not a great dribbler or finisher. So I’d say my passing.”
When McGinley moved her to center back as a sophomore, there was an adjustment period, but the fact she was still a central player made it easier.
“There’s some similarities in terms of having to distribute wide and stuff,” Mayer said. “I probably played a little more defensively than offensively in the midfield, so I had some experience. Now I feel I’ve settled in, especially playing with everyone else back there who I’ve played with for so long.”
Mayer has taken on some of the CVC’s top offensive players and come out on top. McGinley feels she has progressed each year and has gained a bigger understanding of what the coaches want.
“She’s a really quiet kid,” McGinley said. “But she’s just a great person. We have some more vocal leaders, but she’s that
Hopewell Valley defender Clara Mayer playing at Robbinsville, Oct. 15, 2024. (Photo by Suzette Lucas.)
quiet, steady person that plays hard every day, comes to practice every day. The kids respect her and look up to her. She’s a great model for the rest of our kids.”
Mayer, Barnes and Reinhart were together in the back last year and Azara joined them this season, but the quartet is familiar with each other through years of playing together. In the rare instances when they are beaten, LiVecchi is usually there to make the saves.
“Chloie’s been great, she’s played some goal, played some field,” McGinley said. “She’s really calm, some things happen and she doesn’t panic. We have a lot of veterans back there and that’s helped us look really good defensively.”
Mayer says the backs are proud of their role, but is quick to point out teams do not thrive by defenders alone.
“I think we’ve been working pretty hard in the back four,” she said. “But I’d also say a good part of it is we have strong returning midfielders and good forwards. It’s pride in the whole team rather than just pride in our defensive skills. It is easier to defend when you have some of the pressure relieved by the midfield and the offense. You definitely work more as a unit. You can look to the defense for those clean sheets but it’s the effort of the whole team that helps us achieve those scores.”
All that is accurate, but it’s still necessary to have a true roadblock in the back. Mayer has made herself into just such a performer.
“She’s got good size, she’s a big, strong kid and it’s tough to get by her,” McGinley
said. “She’s really good in the air. Also, a lot of it is that she’s just a smart kid. She reads the game well. She’s not someone to really make mistakes. She knows when to play out, knows when to find someone to play the feet. She’s got composure, she can possess or play the ball out. She’s a good steady force and just an intelligent player.”
That intelligence carries over to the classroom, where Mayer is still searching for a college while armed with a 4.6 weighted GPA. She is also part of Central’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes club, which reads bible passages and discusses how they can be adapted to life.
As a member of HoVal’s Red Cross club, Mayer helps organize blood drives and other activities to aid the organization.
In the spring, she runs track & field in the 400, 800 and sometimes the mile.
“That started out just to keep in shape for soccer, but I really like it now,” Mayer said. “I do it with a lot of my friends. It’s fun. It’s a different culture than soccer because it’s more individual, but I really like it.”
Almost as much as she likes playing center-back.
“I love it,” she said. “I love working with my teammates in the back. It’s a ton of fun. I love seeing everybody in front of me, watching what they do. I think it’s a great position. It’s a lot of fun. I try to be vocal just because it’s one of the few positions that can really see the whole field. And I try to keep morale up if we’re ever in tough situations.”
And she does it all without making it seem too complex.
Clara Mayer (11) heads a corner kick toward goal in Hopewell Valley’s 2-1 overtime win at Robbinsville on Oct. 15, 2024. (Photo by Suzette Lucas.)
School board referendum — what went wrong? Part II
Lisa Wolff HAPPY VALLEY
Last month, I promised to take a deep dive into the Board of Education’s role in the failed HVRSD referendum along with steps to assure the next offering hits the mark.
My impetus for writing this column was an event that occurred weeks before the referendum vote. I was introduced to a school board member at a local restaurant. They told me, “My job is to make sure referendum information is out there and let voters decide for themselves. If they vote it down, then hard decisions will need to be made, but I did my job.”
At the time, I thought that was an odd exchange. Then weeks later, at an HVRSD Townhall meeting, the BOE Chair of Finance & Facilities said, “The world will not end if the referendum does not pass, but…” eerily similar to his colleague’s foreshadowing, “we will need to make some difficult decisions.”
This reinforced my suspicion that Board members may not fully understand their job. They seemed to be parroting a
suggested narrative instead of explaining their due diligence in crafting and vetting a responsible referendum and its importance to voters.
In years past, there was usually a mix of new and experienced Board members. In the last 5 years, however, board turnover has run rampant with the overwhelming majority of sitting members serving in their first term. This year the most senior member, the Board President, began a second term.
The ongoing dearth of critical experience and leadership is taking a toll on the community, our students, and the entire district.
The two most frequently voiced public concerns about the referendum were:
Did HVRSD present a Christmas list of all their wants, needs, and dreams?
Why didn’t the BOE better engage the community regarding the referendum?
Part I in this series considered how the administration could have better addressed the first question and suggested that providing correct, consistent, complete, and forwardlooking information would have helped defend their choices.
Part II reflects on the Board of
Arbor Barber
Education’s role as community liaisons to address the latter question. Please also note that blaming the public for not attending BOE meetings or researching the HVRSD website is not a productive solution for community members with no children in district. Information needs to be disseminated in ways that reach all segments of our community.
What should a BOE member do?
Let’s start with the basics. Board members are elected officials to advocate for the needs of all students and incorporate the input of their constituents. Further, under all circumstances, they will need to make and justify hard decisions.
Neutrally standing by while a referendum fails does not achieve a Board member’s top priority of “ensuring educational welfare of children.” Instead, by engaging the community in a proactive and inclusive way, board members can anticipate concerns, adjust plans accordingly, and advocate to successfully meet student needs through referendum, administrative oversight, or policy making.
margins in HVRSD history. That effort began by engaging all the Local Organizations shown on the Liaison Assignment page and spread from there.
Hopewell Valley Education Foundation literally exists to support the school district. In 2016, HVEF’s endorsement letter and referendum campaign was helpful. HVEF reported that no one from the district reached out about the referendum and in general they rarely engage.
Did anyone actually want additional turf fields?
Administrators devoted considerable energy lobbying to spend $6 million for extra turf fields. Their justification included busing costs and athlete safety.
Yet, conspicuously absent was any advocacy from sports teams, boosters, or even sports parents. This lack of support may have contributed to the overwhelming challenge to the turfs’ inclusion.
It’s a hard sell either way, but with no Board members actually assigned to liaise with Middle or High School PTOs, groups, or sports parents, there is little evidence the Board gauged demand for the expenditure.
RECOMMENDATION: Board members should review HVRSD bylaw 142 to better understand the priorities of the job and attend NJSBA training.
What should a Board Liaison and a Board President always do?
Liaising with local organizations is the most efficient way to communicate with the largest swath of community members.
Indeed, a quick review of the HVRSD third bylaw reads, “The purpose of a Board Liaison is to create a connection between our district and Local Organizations. The role of the Board Liaison is to provide accessibility by representing the school district in a meaningful dialog with Local Organizations.”
Every January, the Board reorganizes and elects a President. The elected President’s initial duties include determining committee and liaison assignments. According to Board website, the majority of Board Liaison roles were not assigned and are listed as TBD. (See photo)
RECOMMENDATION: Board Presidents should assign liaison roles in January. Members should actively follow liaison responsibilities as outlined in HVRSD bylaws and engage the community.
Why was there deafening silence from parent groups?
Unlike the recent referendum, the 2016 referendum passed by the largest
Contrast that communication with the CHS turf. The Rec Foundation raised $1 Million. Hopewell Township contributed $650,000 in PILOT funds to relocate a new baseball field. Sports boosters and community organizations came out in force to buy turf medallions and support the efforts in other ways.
Additionally, an arts & wellness space at CHS, funded by the 2016 referendum, added external bathroom access from the turf field, a gym, and the first ever dedicated space for performing arts. Sports and music theatre parent groups came out in force to support the plan. Today, the State continues to provide annual aid for the Performing Arts magnet that utilizes this space.
RECOMMENDATION – Board Liaisons to HVEF, CHS, TMS and elementary schools should engage parent groups to take an active role in providing input and foster their support. Why didn’t the BOE confer with municipal leaders to ensure clarity about the referendum?
There is persistent confusion around school and municipal funding and taxes. Municipal PILOT activities were conflated with the school district referendum culminating with a letter from the Pennington mayor and answered by a letter from Township
mayor. The board should have anticipated this confusion and facilitated municipal dialogues to find common agreement for supporting our students prior to any referendum campaigning.
Conversely, prior to the 2016 referendum, the Board President met with all 3 Valley mayors and they had impassioned discussions about the proposed BOE referendum. Subsequently, the mayors settled their differences and came together to help launch the district referendum. That action was regarded as state-wide model and in October 2017, HVRSD Board President, Superintendent, and Township Mayor were invited to the New Jersey School Board Association annual convention, to present a workshop entitled, “Working closely with your Municipal leaders.”
Where was support from the School Board members?
Finally, the most obvious supporters should be HVRSD Board members. After all,
they voted YES to approve everything in the referendum! While the school district and administration may not lobby voters, board members may certainly share their voices as individuals.
Indeed, as NJSBA’s Chief Membership Engagement Officer recently confirmed, “Yes, many successful districts often have board members proactively write letters that share why they voted YES and encourage others to join them. Letters should include a sentence saying that they are not speaking for the entire board but only for themselves.”
confidence in the Board and/ or Administration? Let’s not jump to that conclusion. Board members volunteer to carry out a difficult job, so let’s assume their intentions are good. Though making rookie mistakes, they gained battle scars and experience from which to learn.
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RECOMMENDATIONS
- School Board members should generate support, anticipate challenges, and model the behavior desired. Provide complete and correct information. Engage and respect community opinions and remove items for which there is no public support. Where do we go from here?
Several people asked me if such a spectacular failure was a vote of no
– Remember that Board inexperience led to this unfortunate waste of time and money. The public must also learn from the process. Re-elect current board members with the expectation that a little extra seasoning, training, and experience may result in better outcomes.
Keep in mind that our community values strong schools that provide an outstanding education and students need a secure and productive learning environment. I’m optimistic that, presented with a future referendum that is thoughtful, well vetted, and better communicated, voters will choose to support and improve
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Juniper’s H’art and Soul of Dining signature program is about more than great food –it is a joyous social experience that nourishes our bodies and spirits. Come dine with us and learn why Juniper Village at Hamilton is the area’s most welcoming assisted living community.
Please call 609.439.6859 to schedule a personal tour complimentary lunch and see what all the excitement before we are SOLD-OUT!
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What’s entertainment?
No one goes to the movies anymore and for good reason. In a movie theater, you can’t hit Pause to get something to eat or go to the bathroom. If you fall asleep, there’s no Rewind allowing you to watch what you missed, so you’re out the twenty bucks you spent on your ticket. Furthermore, it’s lots cheaper and more convenient to stream movies on your TV.
I do know purists who insist you can’t appreciate a movie unless it’s on the big screen and you are surrounded by other humans. Of course, some people have televisions the size of the big screen while others don’t mind watching a 3D IMAX film on their phones.
Parties? You weren’t popular in high school. Your college friends have either moved into a double-wide deep in the Oregon woods or are milking yaks in an ashram in Nepal. The ones who moved to Manhattan are now so snooty they don’t answer your emails. And your neighbors? They were popular in high school and college. Consequently, no
“The Awakening” sculpture by Seward Johnson on display at St. Michaels Preserve.
one invites you to parties.
Going out to dinner used to be an option until your favorite restaurant started charging extra for using credit cards requiring you to stop at the ATM
wholesome (Scouts, church groups, conservationists), an anomaly this year was the cannabis table. As I walked past, the man tending the table wanted to know if I had any questions. What should I ask? How do you roll a joint? How do you use a bong? Where can I score, man?
The Hopewell Harvest Fair this September featured not only civic groups, but also some aggressive vendors. One woman was selling knives that would not need sharpening for seven years. She tried hard to extract my contact information so she could continue her hard sell. Another vendor offered upholstered tissue box covers shaped like couches. When I told her that I usually used my sleeve rather than tissues, she said that she could tell.
for cash before eating. Furthermore, they now automatically add a 37% tip to your check.
So no movies, no parties, and no dining out. What does a Hopewellian do for entertainment?
Fortunately, the neighborhood offers many opportunities for a good time.
For music lovers (or haters), October’s Porchfest leads you to wander around the Borough and enjoy local musicians performing on, of all places, local porches. Nothing is as heart-warming as a crowd swaying on the sidewalk to a Creedence Clearwater cover of “Have You Ever Seen the Rain.” That crowd ranges from little kids, to gray-hairs, the latter singing along exuberantly. They know the words. That does raise the question: When does one age out of rock and roll? Guess the answer is never. Keep in mind, Mick Jagger is 81 and Paul McCartney, 82.
Late September brings Hopewell’s Tour Des Arts. The “Freight Shed,” that seemingly forgotten building next to the train station, is suddenly full of oil paintings. Artists and their works can also be visited in local restaurants and studios, and the artists are eager to chat. This year, Calvary Baptist Church had a blacklight room with artwork glowing in iridescent purple.
One question: why were there so many paintings of chickens?
Town fairs! In May it’s Pennington Day. Suddenly, half the town is occupied by food trucks, musical acts and booths touting local organizations. While most are quite conventional and
In May, Hopewell Borough has Cruise Night with mostly classy cars lined up on Broad Street. This year there were far too many Corvettes. Last year, I saw a Duesenberg! They haven’t been manufactured since 1937.
For additional entertainment options, consider Town Council meetings. They might seem tedious, but you should have been to the Borough meeting in September regarding the conversion of the abandoned eyesore at 57 Hamilton Avenue into 130 rental apartments.
The proposal drew a full house of smart, articulate neighbors talking about the impact on traffic, on local businesses, on school capacity, as well as potential flooding and contaminant clean-up. Sorely missed was the acrimony I recall from Hopewell Board of Education meetings back in the early 1990s. Now that was entertainment.
Don’t forget activities at local libraries. The County Library offers mahjong, canasta, cribbage, a book club, and paper rangoli lessons.
The Pennington Public offers literature and art lectures. In keeping with the impending season there are classes in making wreaths and greeting cards.
The Hopewell Public sponsors lectures, a knitting club, a book club, art classes, yoga, and board game competitions.
Want your entertainment outdoors? Visit Seward Johnson’s enormous sculpture “The Awakening.” That giant will apparently be rising indefinitely out of the ground in St Michael’s Preserve. Do what I do. Tell him to get up already. Or you could just go back to staring at your phone.
Robin Schore lives in Hopewell Borough.
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