Check out
SIX09 for Summer Camps and outdoor Fun COMMUNITYNEWS.ORG
APRIL 2021 FREE
Scouting for a good cause
PURE intentions Youth nonprofit continues programs despite pamndemic By EMMy LieDerMan
Scouts from Lawrence Township Scout Pack 28 and Troop 27 collected about 2,500 pounds of food and several hundred pounds of assorted hygiene products to support the Lawrence Community Center with the “Scouting for Food” drive. Pictured are Cody, Kaylee and Kristi Reading (committee chair Pack 28), and Shane and Kevin Bullard (assistant scoutmaster Troop 27). They delivered food to the Lawrence Community Center’s pantry on March 1. For more Around Town news, go to Page 2.
Fighting food insecurity Fedora Cafe joins forces with Share My Meals By Bill Sanservino anD Dan Aubrey
Share My Meals, a Princeton-based nonprofit started last year to fight food insecurity, has expanded into Lawrence Township. Last month, the organization added Fedora Cafe as the fi fth restaurant in its network of food suppliers. “Every day we see more
people needing food. We can’t sit there and do nothing,” said Ishara Wijesuriya, owner of Fedora Cafe, which is located on Main Street in Lawrenceville. “We have decided to work with Share My Meals to help them extend their operations to our community.” Fedora Cafe will prepare 450 meals per week to be delivered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays to an estimated 20 families.. “We could not be more thankful for the partnership with Fedora Cafe,” said Isa-
belle Lambotte, Share My Meals president. She said SMM has provided more than 50,000 meals to people suffering from food insecurity since the organization was founded in January 2020. “The need in Lawrenceville is mirroring what we see in Princeton,” she said. “Hunger existed in the community before COVID and has been exacerbated during the pandemic.” According to Lambotte, members of the Lawrence See SHARE, Page 6
Raunaq Saharan is a junior at West Windsor-Plainsboro High School North, a blue ribbon school that is known for its competitive resources. Saharan never really thought twice about her access to a high-quality education, but after visiting her cousins in a small, rural village in India, her perspective completely changed. “Their school has one room for 40 students and one teacher,” said Saharan. “They don’t have a negative outlook on it because it’s all they know, but when I think about how my school is one of the most recognized in the country, I consider what I can do to help not only my cousins, but other kids just like them.” Despite the circumstances, what strikes Saharan most about the lifestyle of her relatives is the sense of community across the village. “They don’t have conventional bathrooms or running water, but these circumstances have created a tightknit community,” she said. “Despite having such a small amount of resources, they are such happy people.” After feeling inspired by the perseverance of her family members, Saharan decided to get involved with the Lawrence-based youth chapter of a nonprofit organization called People for Urban and Rural Education Youth. It’s mission is to help bridge the gap between students and academic resources.
Jack’s GREENHOUSE & FARM
ANNUALS • PERENNIALS • SHRUBS • TREES PANSIES • VEGETABLE PLANTS See Our Ad On Page 5
At large, the organization is dedicated to addressing education inequality from the root by acknowledging the barriers—like period poverty and a lack of electricity—that keep students home from school. Across every initiative, PURE volunteers are united under the common belief that every child has the right to a quality education. “Pure youth participates in all these overarching programs that are pretty fluid,” said Siddanth Pabba, a codirector of the Lawrenceville branch. “Our goal is to do anything that will help connect kids with education and give them a brighter future.” Saharan is the public relations ambassador Lawrenceville PURE Youth, which has 28 members ranging from elementary to high school students. The group, which is one of the four youth chapters in New Jersey, leads both local and international initiatives. The Lawrenceville chapter, which is the biggest in New Jersey, has worked at local temples, hosted dinnerto-door events during Diwali, and conducted clothing and school supplies drives for nearby shelters. The chapter has also partnered with Homefront and Anchor House during past holiday seasons, and manned a booth at the 2019 Elsie’s World Fair, where members were given the opportunity to talk to several children, parents and community leaders about the organization’s cause. They aren’t only devoted to education issues, though. Last fall, they raised money to supSee PURE, Page 4
Academy Dental CHILDREN
& ADULTS
Complete Dentistry for the Whole Family
AcademyDentalNJ.com
Currently Open for Emergency Dental Care See our ad on page 7
1179 NEWARK, NJ
AroUND toWN
DO YOU SUFFER FROM
PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY? Celebrate Earth Week with
Greening Together event
FREE 15 Minute consultation for the first 30 callers!
DO YOU SUFFER FROM
PERIPHERAL DO YOU HAVE ANYNEUROPATHY? OF THESE SYMPTOMS? Numbness Pain when you walk Sharp, electrical-like pain Burning or tingling Difficulty sleeping from leg or foot discomfort Muscle weakness Sensitivity to touch?
PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU HAVE NERVE DAMAGE? PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY is a condition that affects millions of Americans, commonly resulting in pain, tingling, numbness, and other painful symptoms in the hands, legs and feet. This pain changes your life and affects how you work, how you play and how you live.
Peripheral neuropathy is the consequence of damage to your peripheral nerves. There are over 100 different kinds of peripheral nerve disorders or
AllCure Spine and Sports Medicine is pleased to announce their new program for treating Peripheral Neuropathy, which includes a combination of advanced FDA-cleared treatments with breakthrough technology that aids in healing the damaged nerves. The effects of this program can be felt on the first few visits. This treatment restores, stabilizes, and rebuilds the nerves in your extremities. Treatment has also been effective in addressing painful symptoms of arthritis, MS, and other forms of chronic pain. Patients generally feel relief physically throughout the treatment period and even feel better emotionally after experiencing a reduction in pain.
their symptoms may be due to Peripheral Neuropathy. Symptoms start
is a condition that affects millions of Americans,commonly resulting inofpain, neuropathies – some are the result a diseasetingling, like diabetes, while others can be triggered by a viral infection. Still others are the result of an injury or numbness, and other painful symptoms in the hands, legsonand feet.NoThis compression the nerves. matterpain where changes the problems begin, it is imperative nerve disorders are resolved as soon as possible to prevent NEW TREATMENTS HOPEyou play and yourFDA-CLEARED life and affects how youPROVIDE work, how how youMany live. permanent damage. people suffer with pain for years, not realizing that gradually, then get worse, including numbness, burning or tingling sensations NEW FDA-CLEARED TREATMENTS HOPE and sharp,PROVIDE electrical-like pain. Treatment options have been limited to a small assortment of pain medications, which can lead to further issues. Ignoring the
problem or masking the symptoms has never been a viable solution. If you AllCure Spine and Sports Medicine is pleased to announce their new program for suffer from any of the aforementioned symptoms, we can help. treating Peripheral Neuropathy, which includes a combination of advanced FDA-cleared treatments with breakthrough technology that aids in healing the damaged nerves. The effects of this program can be felt on the first few visits. This treatment restores, NEW CBD OILand TREATMENTS AVAILABLE! stabilizes, rebuilds NOW the nerves in your extremities. Treatment has also been effective CBD oils Have had successful results with treating patients with Inflammation, Pain whenof you walk Sharp, electrical-like pain inNumbness addressing painful symptoms arthritis, muscle, joint, and nerve related pains. CBD is a especially promising due to its MS, and other forms of chronic pain, Patients lack of any intoxicating effects and lower potential for side effects compared to generally feel relief physically throughout the treatment period better many other pain medications. At AllCure, we want to maximize patients efforts Burning or tingling Difficulty sleeping from legandoreven footfeel discomfort Healthy Damaged in getting them back to the quality of life that they want and deserve, and CBD Nerve Cell emotionally after experiencing a reduction in pain. Nerve Cell treatment is the newest tool to help us do so. Please call us today and we will
DO YOU HAVE ANY OF THESE SYMPTOMS? Muscle weakness
be happy to answer any questions
Sensitivity to touch?
NEW CBD OIL TREATMENTS NOW AVAILABLE!
FREE
15 minute CBD oils Have had successful results with treating patients with IF InflYOU ammation, muscle, PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY HOW DO YOU KNOW HAVE NERVE DAMAGE? consultation 732-521-9222
joint, and nerve related pains. CBD is a especially promising due to its lack of any intoxicating effects and lower potential for side effects compared to many other pain medications. At AllCure, we want to maximize patients efforts in getting them back to the quality of life that they want and deserve, and CBD treatment is the newest tool to help us do so. Please call us today and we will be happy to answer any questions
The Lawrence Township Environmental Resources and Green Advisory Committee, Sustainable Lawrence and the Mercer County Sustainability Coalition are joining together to organize “Greening Together” this month. The event is a week-long celebration in honor of Earth Day and Arbor Day April 24-30. Greening Together is a hybrid event replacing the town’s annual Green Fest usually held at Rider University. It will feature in-person and online activities. For more details on the online events, go to mercersustainabilitycoalition.org. Greening Together begins on April 24 Saturday with “Love your Park,” encouraging residents to walk or bike to their local park. Participants are encouraged to take pictures along the way. Also being held is a “Greening Together” photo scavenger hunt. Those participating can search 10 different locations on a list at Sustainable Lawrence’s website at sustainablelawrence. org. Pictures can be submitted on the website or the organization’s Twitter account to share with other residents.
LAWRENCE GAZETTE
We are a newsroom of your neighbors. The Lawrence Gazette is for local people, by local people. As part of the community, the Gazette does more than just report the news—it connects businesses with their customers, organizations with their members and neighbors with one another. As such, our staff sets out to make our town a closer place by giving readers a reliable source to turn to when they want to know what’s going on in their neighborhood.
is a condition that affects millions of Americans, commonly resulting in pain, Peripheral neuropathy is the consequence of damage to your nerves. forperipheral the first tingling, numbness, and other painful symptoms in the hands, legs and feet. This There are over 100 different kinds of peripheral nerve disorders or 30 callers! 350youForsgate Dr, Monroe Township, NJ 08831 pain changes your life and affects how you work, how you play and how live. neuropathies – some are the result of a disease like diabetes,*Expires while8/1/19. others can be triggered by a viral infection. Still others are the result of an injury or EDITOR compression on the nerves. No matter where the problems begin, it is allcurespineandsports.com We accept mostare major insurances and medicare! Bill Sanservino (Ext. 104) imperative nerve disorders resolved as soon as possible to prevent NEW FDA-CLEARED TREATMENTS PROVIDE HOPE permanent damage. Many people suffer with pain for years, not realizing that AllCure Spine and Sports Medicine is pleased to announce their new program for their symptoms be due to Peripheral Symptoms start INTERVENTIONAL PAIN MANAGEMENT • SPORTS MEDICINE • ACUPUNCTURE • PHYSICAL THERAPYmay • CHIROPRACTIC SERVICESNeuropathy. • POST-SURGICAL REHABILITATION CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER treating Peripheral Neuropathy, which includes a combination of advanced gradually, then get worse, including numbness, burning or tingling sensations FDA-cleared treatments with breakthrough technology that aids in healing the Sam Pastorella and sharp, electrical-like pain. Treatment options have been limited to a small damaged nerves. The effects of this program can be felt on the first few visits. assortment of pain medications, which can lead to further issues. Ignoring the This treatment restores, stabilizes, and rebuilds the nerves in your extremities. problem or masking the symptoms has never been a viable solution. If you CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Treatment has also been effective in addressing painful symptoms of arthritis, suffer from any of the aforementioned symptoms, we can help. Dan Aubrey, Rich Fisher, Emmy Leiderman MS, and other forms of chronic pain. Patients generally feel relief physically throughout the treatment period and even feel better emotionally after experiencing a reduction in pain. CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU HAVE PERIPHERAL NERVE DAMAGE?
Peripheral neuropathy is the consequence of damage to your peripheral nerves. NEW CBD OIL TREATMENTS NOW AVAILABLE! Symptoms start gradually, then get worse, CBD oils Have had successful results with treating patients with Inflammation, numbness, burning or tingling muscle, joint,including and nerve related pains. CBD is a especially promising due to its lack of any intoxicating effects and lower potential for side effects compared to sensations sharp, electrical-like pain. many other pain medications. Atand AllCure, we want to maximize patients efforts Healthy Damaged in getting them back to the quality of life thathave they want and deserve, and CBD Nerve Cell Nerve Cell Treatment options been limited to a treatment is the newest tool to help us do so. Please call us today and we will be happy to small answer any questions assortment of pain medications, which can lead to further issues. Ignoring the problem or masking the symptoms has never been FREE a viable solution. If you suffer from any of the aforementioned symptoms, we can help. 15 minute
732-521-9222
consultation for the first 30 callers!
609-528-4417
350 Forsgate Dr, Monroe Township, NJ 08831
*Expires 8/1/19.
allcurespineandsports.com
We accept majorDrive, insurances and medicare! 100most Cabot Suite A
Hamilton, NJ 08691
Kevin Nerwinski
ACUPUNCTURE • PHYSICAL THERAPY • CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES 2 Lawrence Gazette | April 2021
Community News Service 15 Princess Road, Suite K Lawrence, NJ 08648 Phone: (609) 396-1511 News: news@communitynews.org Events: events@communitynews.org Sports: sports@communitynews.org Letters: bsanservino@communitynews.org Website: lawrencegazette.com Facebook: facebook.com/lawrencegazette Twitter: twitter.com/mercerspace
An award-winning publication of Community News Service, LLC © Copyright 2021 All rights reserved. Trademark and U.S. Copyright Laws protect Community News Service LLC Publications. Nothing herein may be reproduced in whole or part without written permission of the Publisher.
ERVENTIONAL PAIN MANAGEMENT • SPORTS MEDICINE • ACUPUNCTURE • PHYSICAL THERAPY • CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES • POST-SURGICAL REHABILITATIONCO-PUBLISHER
allcurespineandsports.com
Those submitting photos are asked to include their name and e-mail address. “Eddie Dzik, our wonderful local photographer, will be available to help you take terrific pictures on Saturday at Colonial Lake from 10 a.m. to noon,” said Pam Mount, member of Sustainable Lawrence and the Lawrence Green team. Prizes will be awarded at the end of the week. Also on April 24, there will be the annual storm clean up at Colonial Lake at 10 a.m. The cleanup is coordinated by our the township’s Public Works Department and bags and gloves will be available. All who participate will be required to wear masks and maintain safe distances. On Sunday, April 25, from 3-4 p.m. there will be a virtual conversation on Zoom to learn about the science and history of climate change. Kathleen Biggens, chair of C-Change Conversations LLC, has given this presentation to more than 10,000 people in 27 states. Questions and answers will follow. Susan Hockaday will show another way to see climate change impacts from 4-5 p.m. Hockaday, a local artist and
Jamie Griswold
CO-PUBLISHER Tom Valeri
MANAGING EDITOR, METRO DIVISION Sara Hastings ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Thomas Fritts
PRODUCTION MANAGER Stacey Micallef DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL INITIATIVES Joe Emanski
15,000 copies of the Lawrence Gazette are mailed or bulk-distributed to the residences and businesses of Lawrence 12 times a year.
To ADVERTiSE call (609) 396-1511, ext. 115 or e-mail advertise@communitynews.org A proud member of:
photographer, has spent years exploring the details and patterns of nature. She now includes plastic trash in her pictures to describe the acute stresses in our environment. From 5-6 p.m., Kerrianne Lomardi will present information on N.J. Clean Energy Program incentives, which can help each of us reduce our energy use and our carbon footprint through incentives and renewal energy. On April 28 at 7 p.m., the Watershed Institute will present “Water Wednesday.” Learn why there are more heavy rain events, why more polluted storm water flows into our streams. Colonial Lake Park advocate Tom Ritter’s presentation paints a vivid picture of the strong bond that the people of the Lakeland neighborhoods have had with the park and the lake for the last 97 years, up to and including the mission of the recently formed Friends of Colonial Lake Park nonprofit organization. On Thursday, April 29, at 7 p.m., explore how Lawrence can manage huge amount of stormwater runoff with green infrastructure—a cost-effective resilient way to use plants, trees and soils to restore natural ways for the ground to absorb and clean water. The state DEP now requires towns to adopt regulations, which Lawrence has done, to mandate all new development to control runoff. Other options for homeowners include rain gardens, bioswales, cisterns and planting trees to resolve the problems of wet basements, soggy lawns and flooded streets. The Greening Together week will wrap up with an Arbor Day celebration on April 30. Residents can join tree planting events in several parks—locations to be determined. For more information and to register for the events, go to mercersustainabilitycoalition.org.
League of Women Voters to hold roundtable The League of Women Voters of Lawrence will present a panel discussion, “Can We Make New Jersey an Equitable Place to Live, Vote and Thrive?” Assemblywoman Verlina ReynoldsJackson and leaders of the Black Solidarity Group of Lawrence will participate in the panel, to be held on Wednesday, April 7, at 7 p.m. on Zoom. Program members will also include Kyla Allen, Jayda-Milan Parker and Kayla Phillips in a conversation about equity and inclusion in Mercer County facilitated by Dr. Simona L. Brickers of the Lawrence League of Women Voters. “Over the past year, our country has endured a global pandemic, the murder of George Floyd, global protests in support of Black Lives Matter, a presidential election, and an insurrection at our nation’s Capitol,” states a press release fromt he League. “All this, while adhering to statewide guidelines for social distancing, mask-wearing, hand-washing, hybrid schools, limitations on public gatherings, virtual business, and online meetings of all kinds.” Dr. Simona L. Brickers, who serves as DEI Chair of the Lawrence League said that a lot has transpired and there is more to come.
“This is why it is time to have this important conversation,” she said. “Our panelists will focus on what changes have been made, what is emerging, and what else needs to be accomplished to make New Jersey a more equitable place to live, vote, and thrive. By engaging local elected leaders and local grassroots organizers, we will have a candid discussion, which for some may include difficult topics but necessary to connect with our members and the community at large.” The program is free and all are welcome and pre-registration is required. To pre-register go to the Lawrence League of Women Voters website at LWVLT.org. For more information, email LWVofLawrence@gmail.com or phone 609-301-0401.
Dash named ScholarLeader-Athlete
Covid-19 TESTiNG
Senior Rohan Dash has been being selected as the Lawrence High School honoree at the 59th Annual George Wah Scholar-Leader-Athlete Awards. The award honors football players from a local youth league, as well as high schools and colleges, who have made an impact on the area in and out of football. The event, sponsored by the Delaware Valley Chapter National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame, was recorded on March 21 at the Princeton Marriot and will be streamed on April 25. To view the ceremony, go to delvalfootballfoundation.com.
Womanspace awarded $20k grant Lawrence Township-based nonprofit Womanspace was awarded a $20,000 grant from the New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund. The NJPRF has been working every day for the last year to support the thousands of families impacted by the ongoing pandemic throughout the state. Over 500 organizations have identified and funded in order to help the most vulnerable neighbors return to normal. For this award, Womanspace was among 140 nonprofit organizations identified as best positioned to provide services and support to New Jersey communities in greatest need. The funds from this grant will go towards continuing Womanspace’s effort to support victims of domestic violence in the region. These funds are intended to address the critical needs of New Jersey’s most vulnerable residents, whose health and livelihood continues to be threatened by the pandemic. For information on agency events and updates, follow the organization’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages (Womanspaceinc) or go to womanspace.org.
WHAT DID WE MISS? What are you noticing in your community? What stories do you think we should tell? Do you have news to share? We want to hear from you. Send your news or tips to news@communitynews.org.
Now offEriNG Covid-19 PCr aNd aNTibody TESTiNG We accept all insurances and no referral is required
Appointments are recommended To schedule an appointment go to: medlife.youcanbook.me or call 855.515.5005 1717 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Twp, NJ 08648
855-515-5005 www.medlifediagnostic.com April 2021 | Lawrence Gazette3
The Lawrenceville chapter of PURE Youth is the biggest in the state.
PURE continued from Page 1 port a Trenton family who lost their house in a fire, and now the volunteers are focused on promoting sustainable farming in rural India. Saharan says she is particularly proud of the group’s latest initiative to sponsor 15 farmers from outside Raavulpaadu, India. They are helping the farmers switch from conventional to organic farming to limit their exposure to pesticides. Through this project, Saharan said she has realized that the chapter is capable of helping communities in need through more hands-on, long-term initiatives. After their work ends, farmers will be able to become more self-sustainable, which will have an immeasurable impact on their communities. “We’re educating farmers about organic and sustainable farming practices, which has kind of changed my definition of what fundraising means,” Saharan said. “Now more than ever, we’re starting to move away from the foreigner handing people money and saying ‘This is enough to fix your problems,’ and more towards longlasting change.” Farmers in India lack support from the government, and because produce is selling for a lower cost than it takes to cultivate, many have turned to chemically-treated fertilizers as a last resort in keeping up with demand. The youth group has set a goal of $4,000, which will be used for soil tilling and fertilizing. It was planning a “Virtual Ladies Night” fundraiser on March 27, which was set to feature highlights like a DJ, raffle and trivia games. When COVID hit last March, the organization was preparing for an event called Prerana, which was originally planned as a dance and skit show. When the event was moved to a virtual format last November, volunteers across several chapters participated. A total of $25,000 was raised through ticket sales, and the funds were used to build five schools in 70 houses in a rural community in India.
4 Lawrence Gazette | April 2021
“After COVID, we started seeing more and more immigrant and street children not going to school since they couldn’t make a living for themselves,” said PURE Founder and chief executive officer Shyla Talluri during the live stream. “Our intention is to incorporate these kids after COVID slows down. But it’s important for us to be by their side when that time comes.” The four-hour event featured clips of youth and parent volunteers singing, dancing and putting on skits. Throughout the show, they were encouraged to contact PURE’s executive team and donate to the cause. “This organization allows all of us, through any small contribution, to change the lives of many around the world. Those in the audience are helping us make that difference simply by supporting our event, Pabba said. “That is what is so amazing about this group.” The group has also pivoted its efforts to address the effects of the pandemic on a local level. In November, volunteers raised money to donate food, clothing and household items to a Trenton family of seven, which included 160 cleaning supplies, hand sanitizer and hygiene products. “It is our minimal responsibility as privileged citizens to help people in need,” said Lawrence YTownship resident Hema Kanthamneni, chief program officer. “During these times, this responsibility does not disappear. Teaching our kids these values is the first step. Instilling compassion, instilling empathy in all these kids is how we teach them to lead from the heart.” Upon achieving their goal, PURE Youth Larenceville used the excess money raised from their Fall Project to donate to Lux Gurusamy’s War Veteran Project, an initiative hosted by the Wounded Warrior Project. PURE’s contribution assisted in the Guruswamy project raising $305, $55 higher than the project’s intended goal. When reflecting on the importance of PURE Youth in his life, co-director Vankayala echoed Saharan’s sentiment. He said what initially struck him
Advertisement
Members of the Lawrenceville PURE Youth at the home of PURE chief program officer Hema Kanthamneni where they get items ready for donation to a family who lost their home in a fire.
about the organization was the opportunity to feel more connected to his family in India. “I’ve lived in the United States most of my life, and a lot of the things that I do in school, whether it’s extracurricular or playing a sport, are for my community here,” he said. “When I joined PURE, it was really different. I finally felt like I could make a difference there.” While some students may be initially attracted to service efforts to sharpen their resumes, the members of PURE Youth have an undeni-
able connection to both each other and their work, which has fostered a strong sense of community. “I think another thing that really sets this organization apart from everything else is the passion I feel through every single ambassador,” said Pabba. “People may get involved in certain things just because they need volunteer hours, but the bond between us, and especially the bond we share with the people we’re helping, is what really makes this organization special. That’s why I love it so much.”
Jack’s
GREENHOUSE & FARM
609-737-0224
ANNUALS • PERENNIALS • SHRUBS TREES • VEGETABLE PLANTS
OPEN
Mon- Sat 9-5 Sun 10-4
Easter
Flowers!
PANSIES
13 acres of OPEN SPACE come get some FRESH AIR! PLANT SOMETHING!
Now Available!
landscape installation and renovation
Patios • Walkways • Retaining Walls • Clean-Ups • Mulching
Like us on
$5 Off
Any purchase of $50 or more
Not valid on landscaping services or any bulk products. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Valid on in-stock material only. Expires 4-30-21.
$40 Off
Any purchase of $200 or more Not valid on landscaping services or any bulk products. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Valid on in-stock material only. Expires 4-30-21.
Rt. 31 Woosamonsa Rd.
10 WOOSAMONSA ROAD, PENNINGTON www.jacksnurseryandlandscaping.com plantsandtrees@icloud.com
Hopewell Valley Car Wash investors Bank
JACK’S NURSERY
$20 Off
Any bulk mulch delivered order 6 yards or more
Not valid for landscaping services. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Expires 4-30-21.
The other day I waited my turn as I dutifully stood six feet away from the checkout counter. The sign at the cashier read: “Please wait until you are asked to checkout.” The masked cashier, standing behind plexiglass, looks up and says something to me that I could not understand.. “I’m sorry, would you like me to place my items on the counter?” I ask, hoping I guessed correctly. . Apparently I didn’t. As she stops me from placing any more items on the conveyor belt, she repeats her statement from behind the mask and takes out her disinfectant spray and paper towel to wipe down the counter. It only took two verbal cues, a written sign, and overt hand gestures for me to finally understand that she wanted me to wait until she wiped down the counter first. During this covid epidemic, a lot of us are experiencing what it’s like to be someone who is hearing impaired. This new world order of social distancing now requires us to wear masks that muffle our speech. With the addition of background noise and a six foot distance to muffled speech, we find it increasingly difficult to understand what a cashier or even a loved one is saying while we are out in public. I can tell you that as an audiologist, this is a nightmare for many of my patients who are deaf or hard of hearing. Over time, an inability to hear people’s words with repeat communication breakdown leads to social isolation and withdrawal from friends, family and events. We may not have realized how often we use lip reading and facial expressions to make sense of a conversational exchange, especially with background noise, until now. I certainly experienced this at the checkout counter, even with normal hearing. It is easy to imagine how this comes to play with hearing loss. Visual cues supplement what a hard of hearing person misses auditorily, even when hearing devices are utilized. Many refer to this as lip reading or speechreading. I call this “visual hearing,” and it is real. In fact, it is so real, many of my patients remark that they actually hear better when they wear their glasses. We all use our visual cues to understand the entirety of communication exchange to some extent. With facial expressions and lips covered, it is that much more difficult to understand others, and especially for those who are hard of hearing. One patient with severe hearing loss mentioned how challenging it was for her to hear masked people while out shopping- not entirely knowing if someone was speaking to her because she couldn’t see their lips move. “It’s nerve-wracking, walking around not knowing who is actually talking to you, or not being sure of how to respond because you don’t know they are actually talking to you in the first place,” she said. Although modern technology has provided us with the ability to conduct office meetings, learn distantly, as well as video chat with friends and family, it actually creates many hardships for those who are hard of hearing. Consider how challenging holding a conversation is when the phone or computer’s audio doesn’t work properly, disconnects, or poorly projects sound while on a video chat. One becomes reliant on a grainy video at best to make sense of what is being said. Unlike watching television, there is no real-time closed caption option for live video sessions. How easily can we continue a conversation with little to no audio on a video conference? Now we can imagine how those with hearing loss struggle on live video chats. Repeat breakdowns in communication, whether it be in person or online, lead to less social engagement over time. Over time, a hearing-impaired person loses the ability to engage in conversation confidently, or does not want to burden the speaker by having them repeat several times. We have all experienced a situation in which we did not understand someone because it was too noisy. We may even nod in agreement or nervously laugh when we do not understand what was said. People with hearing loss do this all the time. A smile here, a nod there, and not really knowing what their kids laughed at over Thanksgiving dinner but laughing anyway. At some point they may choose not to engage altogether because it’s an awful lot of work, and at times, embarrassing. Little by little they withdraw from friends, family, and events. We now know how real social isolation is through our stay at home order, and we’re seeing it lead to greater levels of anxiety and depression. It is evident that human connection feeds our sense of purpose and levels of hope. Now that we have experienced some of these struggles, I am hoping we can use this time to find compassion for those struggling with communication and connection. Unlike vision loss, hearing loss is invisible. It is difficult to imagine how hard a person with hearing loss struggles because we don’t see it. Helen Keller wrote, “Blindness cuts us off from things, but deafness cuts us off from people.” In the meantime, speak slowly and distinctly. Project your voice if necessary. Be kind. If they can’t see your smile, remember to smile with your eyes. We all deserve to be heard. Dr. Yasmin Battat earned her Master’s Degree Audiology at Hofstra University and her doctorate degree at Salus University. Dr. Battat is licensed through the State of New Jersey and maintains membership in the Academy of Dispensing Audiologists and the American Academy of Audiology. She has over 18 years of experience of treating hearing needs with individualized, whole person care. She is a believer in knowing her patients’ stories and joining them on their journey to hearing wellness. She is the founder and owner of Oracle Hearing Center in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. For more information, go to www.oraclehearingcenter.com or email her at info@oraclehearingcenter.com.
April 2021 | Lawrence Gazette5
Mercer County Sustainability Coalition Greening Together 2021
CELEBRATE EARTH WEEK 2021 WITH US! Visit www.mercersustainabilitycoalition.org/greening-together-2021/ for more details on these events and more! Learn more about sustainability! You are invited to join the Mercer County Sustainability Coalition for community events. All the events are FREE, but please register on our website. If participating in an outdoor event, please wear a mask and take a picture to share with us. Connect on social media with #GreeningTogether to help show your love for our streams, parks, and open spaces! Starting in mid-April, celebrate with stream cleanups done in partnership with The Watershed Institute. They are planned throughout the region in person or on your own. Check www.thewatershed.org for more details. All day Saturday, April 24: Help beautify Lawrence Hopewell Trail Extension by volunteering to help the Mercer County Park Commission install over 2,600 native trees and shrubs in Rosedale Park. Check for additional planting and volunteer dates on our website. Saturday, April 24 12pm-3pm: Check out A Sustainable Landscaping Mini-Expo at Princeton Shopping Center hosted by Sustainable Princeton. Pick up free “Greening To-Go Kits” at Terhune Orchards in Lawrence or in Hopewell at their 3 parks. This FREE bag will have resources on how to become a more sustainable household, a plantable gift, and family activities. Sunday, April 25 3pm-6pm: Join a virtual C-Change Conversation on energy conservation and CO2 reduction, hosted by Sustainable Lawrence. Monday, April 7pm: Find ways to become a zero-waste with the Hopewell Valley Green Team and West Windsor Green Team. Tuesday, April 27 7pm: Join a panel discussion on Clean Transportation in the Capital City hosted by Trenton’s Green Team. Learn about the EV car share initiative, bike projects, and other transit-oriented development plans. April 28 is Water Wednesday! Learn why Mercer County is experiencing more flooding and what that means for our water quality. Attend a program hosted by the Friends of Colonial Lake and The Watershed Institute. Thursday, April 29: Explore Green Infrastructure Resources with us. Kory Kreiseder, the Stormwater Specialist at The Watershed Institute, will talk about how we can use trees, plants and soil to capture and clean the polluted stormwater runoff. Friday, April 30: Join an Arbor Day tree planting celebration in your town. Check back for presentations on native tree identification, tree health, and confronting tree-damaging lanterflies. And don’t miss out on the Rider University Eco-Reps who will host an Ultimate Green Trivia Kahoot!
Check with your local Green team of Mercer County to see what other great Earth Week events are being planned. 6 Lawrence Gazette | April 2021
Ilkay Kisemenli of Fedora Cafe (right) gives food to a Share My Meals client.
SHARE continued from Page 1 Township community reached out to SMM at the end of last year to help several families in town. The organization began to address the issue with the support of Princeton restaurants, but the extent of the need resulted in having to find a partner in Lawrence Township. Wijesuriya, who previously worked in finance for about 18 years, said she negotiated the purchase of the restaurant last year before the pandemic hit, and made the decision to go ahead with the deal. “One of the reasons is that I wanted to make sure that the restaurant stays within Lawrenceville,” she said. “I am from this community, so it was kind of important.” She added that going into the restaurant business in the midst of a pandemic was “nerve wracking,” and she was unsure whether she was making the right decision. But at the same time, I strongly felt that this is something I should go for regardless.” Wijesuriya said that not being able to run the restaurant at full capacity has made business difficult, and like most restaurants during the pandemic, she’s had to rely on take out and delivery orders. “I just take it one day at a time and think positive,” she said. As for partnering with SMM, Wijesuriya said that one of the reasons she purchased the restaurant was to be able to help give back to the community. “I felt that it’s a good organization. At the same time I always felt that I’m quite privileged. I’ve always had food to eat and never had to worry about it. But I know there are loads of people out there who don’t have the same privileges as I do. This is a good opportunity to use what I have in this restaurant as a platform to help other people.” Macarena de Torres, who is responsible for supply chain operations for Share My Meals, said they were looking for family-run restaurants in the downtown Lawrenceville area that were open seven days a week. “We didn’t want a franchise,” de Tiorres said. “We wanted to have someone
who was here and working with all the people in Lawrenceville.” She said the plan is for Fedora Cafe to serve people in Lawrence Township, Trenton and potentially Ewing Township. *** SMM’s original mission was to provide a bridge between individuals and families needing food and food suppliers (corporations, universities, and schools) with excess to share, fighting food insecurity while curbing the environmental impact of food waste, Lambotte said. After the lockdown, the organization had to adapt and expand its operations and launched its COVID-19 Program. While the original meal suppliers temporarily closed their doors, four Princeton restaurants agreed to prepare meals at the cost of goods. This allowed the restaurants to keep some staff members employed while also supporting the community. Thanks to this collaboration and the support of generous people (donors and volunteers), Share My Meals has distributed more than 50k meals since being established in January of 2020. “We are very food wasteful, and there is food insecurity, and we wanted to fill the gap by distributing the food surplus to people in need,” Lambotte said about the organization’s core focus. To address that need she and others developed a “Waste Watchers Program” based on the reality that restaurants, foods service companies, school and corporate cafeterias, and caterers generally prepare excess food to satisfy customers and clients. However, that practice also leads to healthy and nutritious meals being thrown away — unless there was a simple mechanism food providers could use that would take the food away and distribute it. “We began in January (2020) with one of the eating clubs at the university, Tiger Inn. We were receiving 100 meals and giving them to families in Princeton.” She said the organization was able to identify individuals and families in need through SMM vice president Liliana
Morenilla, Princeton Public Schools community outreach coordinator and founder of Princeton Mobile Food Pantry. Soon 15 families had been identified and registered with SMM to receive meals once every two or three days. Lambotte said the project was gaining steam and more involvement, but the state’s pandemic-related closures of businesses, restaurants and eating clubs halted operations and created a gap in providing food. That in turn resulted in business closures, unemployment and more individuals facing economic insecurity. “I started talking with the restaurants to see if they would continue in the months ahead, and we would cover the cost of food and pay staff members,” Lambotte said. With the participating restaurants and farms wanting to help, Lambotte said, they came up with an approach where SMM pays the food provider a fixed price, and they prepare and pack the meals that volunteers pick up and deliver. She said the 40 individuals who help in various ways come from word of mouth and from looking at the organization’s website. “It is not just delivering, there are other options. It could be marketing, fundraising,” she said. After an individual fills out the form on the SMM website, coordinators organize a meeting with the applicant and conduct a “preliminary group session where we talk to them and understand their motivation. Some will see it as not for them, but 99 percent go to the next step,” Lambotte said. She said there are a few essential volunteer requirements: a car and car insurance or some other means of transportation to deliver food if needed. SMM provides additional insurance to support volunteers and provides insulated bags for food delivery. Regarding her background and interest in the creating such a project, the Belgium-born daughter of a university researcher father and lab assistant mother, said, “I am a pharmacist and have been working many years, moving from one country to another. I’ve been in Princeton since 2006 (when her husband took a pharmaceutical job in the area). I had been working with Liliana at the Food Pantry every Wednesday morning and giving fresh produce provided by Mercer Street Friends.” After seeing more people waiting for less available food, the mother of two said she felt a need to do something to help. She also saw food going to waste everywhere from Princeton University to even her own home. “We buy more than we need, and when we don’t use what we bought we discard it.” She said she then started to look for a model in order to begin addressing the situation. “It was not easy to start,” she said, pointing out that businesses supplying meals to community members is “not their main issue.” Yet she and other volunteers developed an approach. “If
we provide (the food source) with the trays, and it wasn’t too much work to pack the food. And if we supplied the transportation, it would help the company and corporations and it would help the community.” She said adding tax-deductible donations through the nonprofit organization that activated at the start of the year and helping the business show a connection to the greater community “made sense for everyone.” And while things were in place for the project to grow before the pandemic, Lambotte said, “That is what we’re going to do when the corporations are starting to open. It was our main objective, and we’re waiting to start. Meanwhile, we have gained credibility, and we have a better idea of how to manage 100 families rather than 15 and we are more aware than six months ago.” She said her approach to making connections and finding people to help develop the project was simple. “You know Princeton is a small town. And I started to ask people I knew. It was mainly word of mouth. The more I talked with people, the more people I saw excited. I reached out to people at Princeton University, people in corporations, and on LinkedIn.” An advertisement on an area French community chat site and her familiarity with other foreign-born area residents, such as the Spanish born Morenilla, resulted in an all-European founding board that is now adding two nativeborn Americans. Looking back at the organization’s first year, Lambotte said, “It was supposed to be a small activity, and all of a sudden there was larger visibility. Originally we started thinking of a budget of $50,000.” They ended up raising $300,000” — including support from the PrincetonArea Community Foundation, Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation, Sodexo, Blackrock, and the Merancas Foundation, which provided a matching grant. In addition to Tiger Inn and The Meeting House, other participating area restaurants include Bagel Nook, Kristine’s Princeton, La Mezzaluna, Terra Momo, and Trattoria Procaccini. Area farms and markets include Cherry Grove Farm, Honey Brook Organic Farm, Skillman Farms, and Pennsylvania Dutch Market. The Hun and Princeton Day schools also participate. About the coordinating effort, Lambotte said, “We are seven board members who are working 70 hours a week. We are very happy to be volunteers, but we found we have been growing in the future to have some support and some staff.” She said the group actively reaching out to local volunteers wanting to join the nonprofit in the Lawrenceville areas to fight hunger and reduce food waste. People interested in making a positive impact on their local community can go to sharemymeals.org. “We are trying to get people in the community involved with problems. Share My Meals is more than food,” said Lambotte.
FAMILY DENTISTRY • IMPLANTS • ORTHODONTICS
We are here in a safe and clean environment for your Emergency Dental Needs! Call 609-454-6500 Stay Safe and Healthy Accepting Most Insurances No Insurance? In-House Discount Options / Membership
Check Out Our Online Reviews 731 Route 33 • Hamilton 609-454-6500 AMERICA’S TOP DENTISTS
April 2021 | Lawrence Gazette7
Area voices returning civility to public discourse By Dan Aubrey
It’s Inauguration Day 2021 — two weeks after the Jan. 6 siege on the United States Capitol Building — and Rider University professor Mark Pearcy sits down and writes the following: “Dissent is foundational to a democratic society, and civic institutions like government, community, and schools are where citizens try to resolve the questions that provoke such dissent.” The editor for the online publication Teaching Social Studies, Pearcy continues his introduction to the publication’s Winter-Spring 2021 issue by saying that even after “a mob of insurrectionists — and there is no really no better word to describe them — tore through the U.S. Capitol building in an effort to stop democracy from functioning” that “dissent is essential for democracy to flourish” and “can’t be allowed to fester into repression; and we can’t allow demagoguery to blind us to the values we share. “Similarly, as Americans, we should believe, unashamedly, in these democratic values, and keep faith in our democratic processes — and oppose any attempt to subvert them.” Pearcy’s world is education: He is a former Florida high school teacher and now a professor in Rider’s Depart-
ment of Teacher Education. So it is education is a type of civic literacy that not surprising when he writes that gives individuals the ability “to take “students need to know that such part of trying to improve the communiresolutions are difficult, and often ties you live though the civic process.” unsatisfying, but are essential to the However, problems develop when proper (and continuing) success of a citizens lack the understanding of republic. The premise of fascism — a how the government functions, the submission to authoritarianism, the United States Constitution, and the suppression of minorinterpretation of rights ity views, the silencing and misconceptions of dissent — is antithetiand extreme ideas are cal to both democracy exacerbated by what and to the social studies he calls a “troubling classroom.” polarization.” During a recent tele“The problem is that phone conversation the Democratic Party Pearcy says public eduhas moved to the left, cation can help citizens and the Republican understand the workParty has moved further ings of a democratic socitoward the right and lost ety and protect it from its mooring as a consereruptions — such as the vative body” he says, events on Jan. 6. adding that tensions “The question we have escalate with people in Pearcy all been asking over the both parties labeling past few months is ‘How each other enemies. can we teach about what is happenPearcy says the current political ing in, and to, our country?’ It is the situation is also connected to party prevailing issue of our profession. members existing more and more in The social studies community needs “a closed echo chamber that is really to continue to support each other in dangerous.” finding the best ways to defend our He points out that in the past both democracy and to help students see its political parties could agree that a parvalue.” ticular social situation was a problem After all, he adds, a social studies — for example, poverty — and then
ENCORE! ENCORE!
offered differing policies on how to address it. Today, he says, one political party may refute the existence of a problem completely, ignoring a social problem and creating divisions and tensions. Pearcy says over the last five or six years, the social studies community has been asking itself, “How should we have done more (to foster dialogue and debate)? That questioning has grown since the election of 2020 and the rising up at the Capitol in January.” However, he adds, it is difficult stuff for teachers “because parents call and complain,” and “what the political right wants from civic education is different from what people on the left want.” He says another factor affecting New Jersey instruction is that the state has more than 580 school districts of vastly different populations and resources, so there is no mandated approach to the teaching social studies and civics. Money — or lack thereof — is also a factor. As Pearcy notes, a study by Danielle Allen, a former Institute for Advanced Study professor and now director of the Safra Center for Ethics at Harvard University, reports taxpayers pay $54 per student for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) studies, yet pay only 5 cents for civics education.
Kids still LISTEN to their PARENTS… TAKING AWAY THE KEYS DOESN’T TAKE AWAY THE RISKS…
TAKING AWAY THE KEYS
WEEKEND REWIND
Over two-thirds of all deaths associated with underage TAKE AWAY THE RISKS… drinking DOESN’T are NOT on the roadways. –CDC AsOver a parent, youofcannot giveassociated alcohol towith your two-thirds all deaths underage children’s friends under the age of 21 in any drinking are NOT on the roadways. – CDC circumstance, even in your own home, even with theiryou parent’s permission. You also cannot As a parent, cannot give alcohol to your children’s friends under the age of 21 in any circumstance, your ownunder home, even their parent’s knowingly alloweven a inperson 21,with other than permission. You also cannot knowingly allow a person under 21, other than your own child, your own child, to be in your home or property if to be in your home or property if they are consuming or possess alcohol they The arelegal consuming or in possess alcohol consequences New Jersey are fines The of up legal to $1,000 and daysJersey in jail perare person served consequences in 180 New fines of up to www.mercercouncil.org $1,000 and 180 days in jail per person served
EDUCATE. ENGAGE. EMPOWER.
HELP STOP UNDERAGE DRINKING-
Your Pet Matters Your Career Is Calling Master Your Finances Health 411
PARENT, NOT JoinBE TheTHEIR Prevention Coalition of THEIR BARTENDER. HELP STOP UNDERAGE DRINKINGMercer BE THEIR PARENT, NOTCounty THEIR BARTENDER. EDUCATE. ENGAGE. 2nd Wednesdays of the month,EMPOWER. 9-11AM
www.mercercouncil.org facebook.com/PCoMC Join The Prevention Coalition of PreventionMercerCnty
Mercer County EDUCATE. ENGAGE. EMPOWER. 2nd Wednesdays of the month, 9-11AM
www.mercercouncil.org facebook.com/PCoMC
Catch up on the episodes you missed every Monday through Thursday at 9 a.m. Listen on air @107.7 FM | Online @1077TheBronc.com On App @WRRC on Google Play and the Apple App store.
8 Lawrence Gazette | April 2021
PreventionMercerCnty
Join The Prevention Coalition of Mercer County 2nd Wednesdays of the month, 9-11AM facebook.com/PCoMC PreventionMercerCnty
“As teachers we need to be commit- they outright believe it, but they won’t ted to American core values,” he says. even go through the effort of read“These are values worth defending ing up on the issue or using that additional information to form their own and to celebrate.” opinion.” *** While his other points are directed SupportingPearcy’s vision is Nicholas Zolkiwsky, a Rider student whose specifically to classroom teachers 2021 Teaching Social Studies article — to inform parents that about the “How Do We Teach Politics in a Soci- discussions and to remain neutral to ety Where Political Affiliations Have issues and candidates — he brings Become Toxic?” illustrates the prob- up something applicable to all discussions: “Make sure that lems related to civics eduthe students know that cation and politics. their opinions are their Zolkiwsky says when own opinions and they he was a fourth-grade stuhave the right to have dent in 2008 his “teachers them. This can be very did not tell us where Senaempowering for stutors McCain or Obama dents, especially those sided on certain issues or in high school who now even a basic background find themselves in the of the parties they were ‘young adult’ category. affiliated with. Instead, By having their own we were all taught to like free-formed opinions Obama because he was this helps them estabyounger and was the lish a sense of identity more ‘favorable’ candias to who they are and date among teachers at Zolkiwsky where their morals lie.” my elementary school.” Zolkiwsky sums up He says the same approach was taken in 2012 but his argument by saying, “Our political changed in the 2016 presidential elec- climate in our nation today has never tion when his teachers talked about been as divisive as it has been over where Donald Trump and Hillary Clin- the past few years. But we as educators and even future parents must realton stood on issues. “While for the first time we were hav- ize that if we want to change the toxic ing open discussions about beliefs and climate that is our political spheres, the two major parties, it was undoubt- then we must lead the charge. Show edly one of the most toxic environ- our students it’s okay to disagree with ments one could have ever imagined. others and that you can still be friends Instead of listening to each other often- just because one person voted for one times I would find classmates getting candidate and the other voted for the into heated arguments, which were opposite candidate. The sooner we then followed by one person attacking implement respect in our classrooms and when discussing politics with the personal character of the other. “Even as a 17-year-old I knew this younger generations the more likely was no way to hold political discus- they will pass those traits down to their sions. Where was the respect? Where children.” During an email exchange, the were the listening skills? And most importantly, where was the maturity? Flemington, New Jersey, raised Zolkiwsky, whose grandfather and parents The answer, nowhere to be found.” Now in 2021 he asks, “How do we, are Rider alumni, says, “I wrote this as teachers, teach and create a healthy article as part of an assignment for one environment where students can learn of my education courses this past fall and discuss politics when we live in a semester called ‘Teaching Social Studsociety that becomes toxic when these ies in Secondary School.’ “I had always been interested in the discussions arise?” His answer is informed by other ref- fact that politics is often labeled as a erences and also by work beyond the ‘taboo’ topic to discuss with others. Oftentimes when people start to menclassroom. One is to provide lessons that help tion politics during a conversation you students and citizens explore the can instantly feel the atmosphere of reliability of sources of information, the conversation start to change, and you worry that things will become media bias, and “fake news.” As Zolkiwsky notes, “This is a per- tense or even hostile. I believe that it fect starting point as understanding is possible to have discussions that biases will better help all students involve politics, especially with people fully understand the concepts of poli- whom you don’t see eye-to-eye with, tics and how differently media outlets as long as a mutual understanding portray a candidate/policy than a rival- and respect is put forward. We often ing network. This also opens up the forget that people’s political opinions door to teach students the importance are nothing more than just that, their of fact-checking and doing their own opinion, and that they are fully entitled research, which in the past few years to an opinion. I always tell people that has become so much more important ‘you don’t have to agree with my opinions; I just ask that you respect them.’ than ever.” The process also helps address the If we want our future generations to easy access to media and the increas- be able to have these respectful coning influence of social media on indi- versations with one another then we viduals who “will typically see a picture as parents and teachers have to show or a meme on Twitter or Instagram and teach them how to respect each and assume it to be true. Not only will other’s opinions.”
INCOME TA X PREPARATION 15% OFF
We Are
OPEN
with this ad No Minimum Fee. Cannot be combined with any other offers.
With Safety Protocols In Effect
MASKS REQUIRED ON PREMISES
HAND SANITIZER ON PREMISES
609-538-8300
VALERI FINANCIAL SERVICES Glen Roc Center
200 Scotch Rd.
Ewing, NJ
Days Weekends Evening
INCOME TAX Attentive and empathetic service
PREPARATION
You love your Mom and want her to be able to live comfortably in her own home Over �me, however, caring for your Mom requires more and more a�en�on. Caring for your Mom requires that you take care of yourself.
Give yourself a necessary break.
Call Nana Murphy Cer�fied Home Health Aide 609-954-5235 3 hours - $135.00 Assist with bathing, bathroom, trips to the doctor, hygiene, preven�ng the fall, companionship. April 2021 | Lawrence Gazette9
I
P
Lawrence slated to receive $3.1 million in federal aid SAY GOODBYE TO BACK & LEG PAIN...
WITHOUT SURGERY!
30 Million Americans suffer from back pain everyday. This affects everything that they do, from work to play and ultimately their quality of life. 7 out of 10 people experience lower back pain at some point in their lives and it is one of the most common reason for patient visits to primary care physicians. There is no doubt that low back pain exists in epidemic proportions today. There are many causes of back pain. Some people develop it over time, others are injured in sports, work or accidents. Most people complain of pain and numbness in their legs, usually the result of spinal conditions such as sciatica, stenosis and herniated discs. Regardless of the cause, people cope with pain in several different ways. Many people try to wait back pain out only to find that it keeps getting worse. They buy new mattresses, try different stretching exercises, learn new techniques for sitting and standing, yet their conditions do not improve. Some make repeated unsuccessful trips back and forth between their doctor, chiropractors, and/or physical therapists. Others opt for surgery, and while it is true that surgery may be the answer for certain types of back injured, it is highly invasive and not without serious risks.
COMMON COMPLAINTS WITH LOWER BACK PAIN: SCIATICA BULGING/HERNIATED DISCS STENOSIS COME USE OUR NEW SPINAL DIFFICULTY BENDING, TWISTING, DECOMPRESION LIFTING, STANDING, WALKING TABLE! SHOOTING, BURNING, STABBING SENSATION FREE 10 Minute consultation for the first 30 callers!
609-528-4417 100 Cabot Drive, Suite A Hamilton, NJ 08691
allcurespineandsports.com ACUPUNCTURE • PHYSICAL THERAPY • CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES 10 Lawrence Gazette | April 2021
Mercer towns to get $115 million from American Rescue Plan By Bill Sanservino
Mercer County and the communities within will receive almost $187 million in aid from the federal government over the next two years. The money will come from funds allocated for state and municipal aid under the American Rescue Plan— the $1.9 trillion stimulus package approved by Congress and signed into law by President Joe Biden last month. Under the act, New Jersey will receive the eighth largest pot of federal money compared to other states, including $360 billion in state and local aid. The state itself will receive $6.4 billion plus another $189 million to expand broadband internet across the state. An additional $1.8 billion will be split among the 21 county governments and $1.741 billion is to be divided among all 565 cities and municipalities in New Jersey. The ARP calls for $71.26 million to go to the Mercer County itself and $115.5 million to be dispersed to individual municipalities. The money is earmarked for expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The breakdown of funds to Mercer municipalities is as follows: • East Windsor $2.68 million • Ewing $6.07 million • Hamilton $16.89 million • Hightstown $521,023 • Hpwl Borough $187,230 $1.74 million • Hpwl Twp. • Lawrence $3.18 million • Pennington $253,046 $6.05 million • Princeton • Robbinsville $1.42 million $73.78 million • Trenton • West Windsor $2.74 million Aid allocated for Burlington County towns includes $1.17 million for Bordentown Township, $372,496 for Bordentown City and $54,224 for Fieldsboro. In Middlesex, Plainsboro will receive $2.24 million. *** “Our state and local governments have been on the frontlines of the fight against COVID-19,” said Sen. Robert Menendez, who voted for the plan. “They have been bleeding resources for over a year while costs have soared and revenues have plummeted. As a result, they have borne the brunt of the economic pain and desperately need help,” Sen. Menendez said. He said the money in the ARP is intended not only for governments, but also for vaccinations, first responders, teachers, infrastructure improvements and small businesses. “In the midst of the greatest public
health and economic crises of our lifetimes, it is unacceptable New Jersey schools, hospitals, small businesses and workers faced the additional threat of budgetary shortfalls,” said Sen. Corey Booker, who also voted for the ARP. Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes and local officials contacted by The Gazette said it is still unclear what the funds can be used to pay for, and they are awaiting guidance from the federal government. Because the regulations regarding use of the funds are unknown, the money has not been included in most county and local municipal budgets for 2021. “I’m very thankful to president Biden and Congress for passing the ARP,” said Hamilton Mayor Jeff Martin. He added that he expects that the funds the town will be receiving will help make up for lost hotel tax revenue — the town gets a percentage of every room that’s rented, and hotel occupancies are down since the pandemic began. Martin said the township has also had to pay overtime for Health Department employees to work overtime the past year. He said it was a “huge relief” to know that they likely won’t have to raise taxes or cut jobs. Kevin Nerwinski, Lawrence Township municipal manager, also said he’s awaiting some clarity on the funding. “We are working on getting the information regarding the funds the township is to receive, and when and how it can be used,” he said. “At present, there is limited guidance.” He said he’s also looking for some clarity as to how the disbursement of funds was determined. “I am trying to find out why Princeton is receiving $6 million and Lawrence is receiving $3.2 million,” he said. “We are identical in terms of population (we have slightly more), square miles and unemployment rates, but Princeton’s municipal budget is 32% higher than ours.” *** Local government funds will be distributed in two equal payments—the first by May 10 of this year, and the second by March 11, 2022. According to the National Law Review website, the funds are to be used to “respond to the COVID-19 emergency and address its economic effects, including through aid to households, small businesses, nonprofits and impacted industries such as tourism and hospitality.” All funds must be spent on costs incurred on or before Dec. 31, 2024. The state and local governments cannot use the funds to make pension payments or to offset revenue losses resulting from any tax cut, tax delay or tax rebate enacted after March 3, 2021.
april 2021
The doctors are in the house...almost 5 administrators travel doctorate journey together
Educational Doctorate program as a cohort within 17 candidates in the current class. Beginning in 2018, Lawrence High School (LHS) administrators David Adam, principal; Fay Lopez and Cliff Williams, assistant principals; Mindy Milavsky, Lawrence Middle School principal; and Alyson Fischer, Intermediate School principal persevered in the challenging program while steering their respective schools through the coronavirus pandemic for the last 14 months. Once the program is complete, all Administrators banded together in doctoral quest. L-R Cliff Williams, four LHS administrators Alyson Fischer, Mindy Milavsky, Fay Lopez, David Adam. Photo taken will have their doctorates early in program. as Assistant Principal heir story is different than most doctoral candiDamian Bariexca earned his in 2015 from Wilmington dates. University.
T
Five Lawrence Township Public Schools (LTPS) administrators are navigating Rider University’s
Budget paints favorable picture for 21-22 Additional state aid helps bottom line NCAA March Madness Basketball Tournament Daylight Savings Time Promise of Spring You can count on it. If it’s time for the above happenings, it’s time to begin finalizing the district budget for the next school year. Our Board of Education (BOE) approved the proposed 2021-2022 budget at their March 10, 2021 meeting. We then sent the document to the NJ Department of Education’s County Office for approval by the Interim County Superintendent. Once we receive that approval, (continued page 3)
(continued page 2)
Neat bars are, well . . . pretty neat!
New tool assists remote instruction delivery
M
id-January was all hands on deck for the Technology Department as they assembled 105 TV stands and 50” monitors to couple with neat bars. These bars house a speaker, a microphone, and a camera. The device is a tool for classroom teachers at Lawrence High and Middle Schools when delivering remote instruction. Using the neat set-up, teachers can easily see and interact with their remote students while doing the same with their hybrid, in-person students. Additionally, this tool frees teachers from having to use their laptop screens to see their remote students. Teachers have the flexibility of
placing the set-up anywhere in the room. LTPS used $400,000 of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) federal funds to purchase these items to help facilitate remote instruction. The Tech Department became an assembly line once again at the end of March as they received 107 more stands, monitors, and neat bars. The plan is to have the set-ups in the Intermediate School and all four elementary schools by April 19th. (continued page 2)
Neat bar sits atop the monitor. Lawrence Public Schools | April 2021 | Lawrence Gazette 11
31 Lawrence High students qualify for international competition at NJ DECA — school principal and teacher also honored
Historically, Lawrence High School’s (LHS) DECA (formerly Distributive Education Clubs of America) Chapter does very well at regional, state, and international competitions. This year, despite the pandemic, is no exception. Thirty-one (31) LHS DECA members qualified at the New Jersey DECA Conference March 1-3, 2021 to advance to the international conference beginning April 24th. LHS garnered additional accolades at the state conference: the organization named LHS Principal David Adam the 20202021 NJ DECA Administrator of the Year and recognized Diane Schneck, LHS business teacher and DECA co-advisor, for her 35-Year Milestone of dedication and service to students and to the organization. John Tees, LHS business teacher, is also a chapter co-advisor. DECA is an international association of more than 10 million members and 3,700 high school chapters. For almost 75 years, the association has prepared emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality, goal setting, consensus building, and project management.
Lawrence High School DECA chapter officers proudly display banner honoring LHS Principal David Adam. L-R: David Adam, Suraj Kura, Eric Maest, Olivia Szela, Arjun Agarwal, Emet Baria, Matthew DeMott, Neel Revankar
(continued from page 1) Doctoral candidates . . .
ing research and finalizing their dissertations, all are on target to defend their work in May.
Rider’s doctoral program is 36 months and requires 51 credits. Two years involve coursework and one year is for dissertation research and analysis. The program combines online and on-campus (hybrid) studies and summer residencies, thus enabling candidates to pursue their degree without interrupting their career.
Dissertation topics include internet safety, restorative practices, access to higher-level coursework for students, student engagement through social media and literacy-based instruction.
At this point, all five candidates are on the home stretch to complete the three-year program (falls, summers, and springs) on time this spring. Conduct-
Universally, the candidates’ reasons for pursuing their doctorates include identifying as life-long learners; desiring on-going growth as a leader, educator, and school administrator; embracing challenges; and taking advantage of the opportunity to work with their LTPS colleagues and a small cohort
(continued from page 1) Neat bars . . .
(continued on page 4)
12 Lawrence Gazette | April 2021 | Lawrence Public Schools
of educational leaders. One candidate described the best part of the program as “focusing on the practitioner and providing educational leaders with skills and knowledge to meet the demands of today’s learners.” LTPS candidates relate they have benefitted from ongoing discussions with their district colleagues about assignments and dissertations and from the support and encouragement that all have shared. One acknowledged there was a bit of peer pressure involved also!
Middleton noted as “exemplary” by state One of 93 in New Jersey
The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) has named Heather Middleton, 3rd grade teacher at Slackwood Elementary School, as a 2020-2021 New Jersey Exemplary Educator. The NJDOE only recognized 93 educators across the state this year. The NJDOE states, “The goal of the Exemplary Educator Recognition Program is to identify educators who are valued by their school and community and have exhibited strong knowledge and skills, an inspiring presence, and a clear vision for quality teaching and learning.”
Heather Middleton
“Every man has his secret sorrows which the world knows not; and oftentimes we call a man cold, when he is only sad.” -- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
(continued from page 1) Budget . . . we will hold a public hearing. Currently, that hearing is scheduled as part of the BOE’s May 5, 2021 meeting. The district’s responsibility of developing a cost-efficient budget falls under Goal 4 Fiscal Responsibility of our strategic plan and aligns with our mission statement. Goal 4 reads, “The district will continue to prioritize the use of funds and develop long-range planning strategies to cause cost containment and to create new revenue sources.” In a nutshell, we are in good financial shape. We saved money during the unprecedented 2020-2021 school year due to the pandemic and students being on total remote instruction part of the year. We realized savings in transportation and unfilled staff positions and received a good renewal rate, an actual reduction, in the cost of employee health benefits. Helping next year’s bottom line is an additional $630,000 in state aid for 2021-2022. Areas that partially offset our savings were a loss of revenue for Pre-K tuition and the State’s requirement for districts to pay transportation contractors a percentage of their contracts, even though schools were closed and buses were not running.
What are we doing with surpluses funded by realized savings? We pay it forward and invest in educational gains and health and safety improvements. In the current school year, we purchased technology that helps with remote instruction today, and facilitates distance learning as needed in years ahead. Future thinking includes non-pandemic driven changes such as providing distance learning during times when students are away for extended periods of time, summer learning, evening learning and, perhaps, instructional schedules that are varied, depending upon student needs.
Cost Drivers • Enrollment fluctuations/shifts – the district enrollment is decreasing. The number of students in special education has remained flat, but the costs are increasing, mainly due to out-of-district tuition increases. In the 2011-2012 school year, special education costs were 44% of the general education budget. In next year’s budget, the costs are 59%. • Salaries and Benefits = 80% of budget • Program increases reflect enrollments
Additionally, we will put funds into Capital Reserve for capital maintenance projects to maintain our buildings. Project examples include repaving at Slackwood, Eldridge Park, Lawrence Intermediate, and the administration building as well as funding roofing projects.
Revenue Highlights • State aid increased $630,445 • Under State-imposed 2% cap by $192, 585
Budget Highlights • Sustaining and Enhancing 2021-2022 Program • Investing in Equity • Investing in Counseling • Investing in Special Education • Maintaining 1:1 initiative/leverage technology for new opportunities • Maintaining safe school environment/cultivate options • Continuing construction: referendum (2018)/capital maintenance
Tax Impact The 2021-2022 budget does not raise taxes to the extent that we could. On an average assessed home in Lawrence Township, the tax impact is $68 per year. The current year’s tax impact is $126 and the year before was $141. See budget tables on page 4. The entire budget can be viewed at www.ltps.org under Budget Information. Questions about the budget may be addressed to Business Administrator Tom Eldridge at teldridge@ ltps.org or (609) 671-5420.
Equity, Inclusion & Anti-Racism — get periodic updates about our ongoing district work at https://www.ltps.org/Page/3397 on our website. Lawrence Public Schools | April 2021 | Lawrence Gazette 13
Education Foundation grants ongoing support
It’s like Groundhog Day! The Lawrence Township Education Foundation (LTEF) keeps awarding our grants and funding wonderful projects, always with an eye toward creativity and how our students will benefit. LTEF Executive Director Karen Faiman presented Spring Grant cycle awards totaling $50,405 at the March 10. 2021 Board of Education meeting. We appreciate the dedication of the LTEF Trustees and Faiman for their ongoing, generous support.
Board of Education Kevin Van Hise, Esq., Pres. Michele Bowes, Vice Pres. Jonathan Dauber, Ed.D. Pepper Evans Patricia Farmer Jo Ann Groeger Gregory G. Johnson, Esq. Michelle King, Ph.D. Joyce Scott
Faiman presents Superintendent Ross Kasun grand check for Spring Grant awards.
District Mission The mission of the Lawrence Township Public (continued from page 3) Budget . . . Schools is to foster a community that: • values academic excellence, critical thinking skills, and lifelong learning; • challenges each student to become a responsible citizen of a global society; and • respects different learning styles and adapts instruction accordingly.
Check us out on the Web! www.ltps.org Follow us on Facebook! Follow us on Twitter! @ltps1 Online Backpack
As part of the district’s “greening” initiatives, we continue to successfully promote the use of the Online Backpack on the district website. Information from non-profit entities is entered as it is received. Check the site often.
Ross Kasun, Ed.D. Superintendent
Andrew Zuckerman, Ed.D. Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction
Thomas Eldridge
(continued from page 2) Neat bars . . . More tech updates, as of 3/15/21: •
Business Administrator/Board Secretary
Sean M. Fry
Director of Personnel & Administrative Services
Linda Mithaug
Director of Student Services
Lana Mueller Editor
lmueller@ltps.org 609-671-5405 2565 Princeton Pike Lawrenceville, New Jersey 08648 Phone: 609-671-5500
Chromebooks issued to students in grades K-5 = 1,383 (Students in grades 6-12 already had Chromebooks as part of our 1:1 device program.)
•
iPads issued to Pre-K students = 38
•
Internet provided to households (either via hot spot or Comcast Internet Essentials) = 45
As of April 19th, students in grades K-5 will have Chromebooks available in classrooms in addition to what they have at home.
14 Lawrence Gazette | April 2021 | Lawrence Public Schools
Kids Sum Up 2020 In this New York Times feature, Lucas Smith, age 9, asked young people around the U.S. to describe 2020 in just six words. Here are his favorites, from contributors age 7 to 11: • • • • • • • • • •
Daytime pajamas make great school attire. Never take seeing friends for granted. The world is a fragile place. Great parents aren’t always great teachers. Life can be easy…and hard. If I learned one thing: masks. I love and hate my family. Be catlike: Nap, eat, avoid humans. Real friends actually stick with you. Lifesavers: doctors, cousins, teachers, elections, Minecraft.
“10 Lessons from 2020” by Lukas Smith in The New York Times, December 27, 2020
sports
Dallarda looks to make state championships By Rich Fisher
With three of his top wrestlers not coming out for various reasons this season, Lawrence High wrestling coach Chris Lynne is only looking to get his young wrestlers match time and is not concerned with wins or losses. With one exception. “Jake Dallarda is your bonus,” Lynne said. “If he does well it makes it all worthwhile, and that’s why I didn’t want to lose this season (to COVID-19 shutdowns), because of Jake. That’s all (assistant) Jeff Verga and I kept saying all summer long. “He’s that kid that just works so hard. To lose his chance would have been horrible. I know there’s a lot more horrible things out in the world these days but in these circles, that would have been a bad thing. He deserves that chance. He didn’t do anything wrong.” The veteran coach was discussing Dallarda’s chance to wrestle in the NJSIAA Individual State Tournament. And the grappler has a sincere appreciation for those thoughts. “I have the best coaching staff on the planet,” he said. “They do a lot for me. Their whole objective is to get me as far as they possibly can. They know it’s
LHS wrestler Jake Dallarda faces off against an opponent. (Photo by Sam Pastorella.)
something I want and they want that for me. I appreciate that like nothing else. That’s very important to me.” The senior 160/70-pounder came tantalizingly close to states last year but lost in the Region 6 semifinals, and lost again in the first-round of wrestle-
backs. A win in either match would have sent him to Atlantic City. This year, he is fully confident about reaching the big dance, and succeeding. “It’s not just about going,” Dallarda said. “I’m not gonna go there and be
the guy happy to be there. I’m gonna go there and try to place, win as many matches as possible.” Reaching this year’s states is somewhat different than the norm. There won’t be any district tournaments, as committees will decide which three in each district weight class qualify for regions. Wrestlers are helped in that respect by “prestige points”, which are accumulated by how far they advanced in last year’s post-season. Because he was fifth in regions, Dallarda racked up some prestige points. But he cannot falter to anyone this year, or he loses half those prestige points to that opponent. Conversely, if he beats someone with PPs, he gains half of them, among other things. The Colonial Valley Conference is limited to 15 matches and cannot wrestle out-of-conference, so Lynne cannot schedule tougher opponents for his stud. But he still likes Dallarda’s chances of hitting his goal. “He was a little crushed when he didn’t make states last year, and he had improved by leaps and bounds from his sophomore year,” the coach said. “You can see another big difference from last year to this year. Strength-wise and talSee DALLARDA, Page 16
Now Open NJ Heart & Vascular Care After practicing in a legendary teaching hospital for 11 years, having experience of over 10,000 cardiovascular intervention procedures, publishing multiple research articles and training over 100 cardiologists, Dr. Kintur Sanghvi is available at NJ Heart & Vascular Care. He has been internationally acclaimed and has given speeches as guest faculty in 72 major cardiovascular conferences across 5 continents. He is one of the pioneers for the wrist artery catheterization, who has innovated new procedure techniques, device solutions, and owns multiple patents. “It is truly a privilege to provide cutting edge, evidence based, comprehensive cardiovascular care to each patient, one at a time.” Next day appointments available.
Book Online at NJHVC.com
Expires: 4-30-21
Expires: 4-30-21
Expires: 4-30-21
Princeton Office: 10 Forrestal Road South, Suite 207 Princeton, NJ 08540 Phone: 609-759-9660 Fax: 609-759-6661
Hamilton Office: 2111 Klockner Rd,Hamilton Square, NJ 08690
April 2021 | Lawrence Gazette15
DALLARDA cont. from Page 15 ent-wise he’s so much better. He found a way to make it work over COVID.” Due to the pandemic Dallarda was unable to compete in tournaments to get any off-season mat time. But he utilized the workout equipment in his house and moved to bigger venues when gyms re-opened. “That’s all I was doing was putting on strength,” he said. “And I met a guy at the gym who wrestled D-I (Division I college) who wanted to get back into it, and he helped me train and helped me make some leaps. “I bulked up to 190 pounds just from lifting an outrageous amount and sucked back down to 160. I feel good, feel strong. I’ve still got my energy. This is it. This is the year.” Dallarda never dreamed he would be uttering those words when first starting the sport. He began at age 8 but said “I wasn’t very serious with it. I always kind of did
ROMOLO
it recreationally.” By seventh grade, Dallarda began to realize he had some decent skills and did well at Lawrence Middle School “mostly because I was just stronger than everybody else.” He also joined the Princeton Wrestling Club and has remained there ever since. “I stayed local,” he said. “There’s all these big clubs people travel real far to. I started getting a lot better with the club I was at. I figured if it ain’t broke. . . I didn’t want to switch up to what got me to that point.” When he reached high school, Dallarda showed skills, but they were pretty raw. “He was a talented freshman but he was all over the map,” Lynne said. “He had bad hips but good strength. He had good instincts but made freshman mistakes. He was an all-or-nothing kind of wrestler at the time. But we had such a good lineup; he just kind of blended in with the better wrestlers, which I
MASSIMO
Zomparelli
MARCO
Contractors, LLC.
Quality Workmanship Since 1975
t/a Ripi Concrete NJ LICENSE: #13VH06018600
think started to rub off on him.” Dallarda showed substantial improvement as a sophomore, going 24-9 and finishing fourth in districts, just one spot from regionals. “He was so upset that he didn’t make regions,” Lynne said. “I think that’s what propelled him at that point to work harder.” By then, Dallarda knew he was better than average. “I never thought about giving it up,” he said. “Win or lose I loved the fraternity of it all, the camaraderie that comes with it. Nothing beats getting your hand raised against another guy who’s trying to do the exact same thing that you are; and you just deny him and you come out on top. Even though I wasn’t getting that a lot I was still getting it sometimes and last year that started coming a lot more.” Indeed it did, as Dallarda went 36-5 and won a district championship. His near-miss at regions convinced him that he was better than just above-average. “Last year it really hit me when I was one place away from states,” he said. “When I was younger that just seemed out of reach for me. I was never one of those guys brought up thinking this is the end goal for me. I was mostly doing
it for fun. I wanted to be good but that was never really in sight for me.” Coming so close not only gave Dallarda more confidence, it fueled his work level to go even higher. Of course, with Dallarda, wrestling is never considered work. “I used to play baseball but never put the effort into it,” he said. “That’s always been an issue for me, putting effort into things that don’t particularly capture my interest. “But that’s never an issue I’ve had with wrestling. I put so much effort into it because I love it, and I think that’s what gives me an edge over other people. They may have this or that, but there’s no way in hell they love this more than I do.” Dallarda’s passion, combined with a 3.5 grade point average, has college wrestling programs interested. He even got contacted by Williams Baptist University in Arkansas, but his number one choice is New York University because of its wrestling and academics. He also has interest from George Mason, Ursinus and Muhlenberg. “I’m very fortunate,” he said, “to have the options that I have.” Options that he created himself, thanks to relentless hard work. Or in Dallarda’s case, a labor of love.
Letters of intent
Masonry • Concrete • Sidewalks Curbing • Patio • Driveways Brick Pavers French Drain Systems 100% Guaranteed Commercial & Residential
PH: (609) 937-0241 F: (609) 587-6079 E: zomparellicontractorsllc@gmail.com 11 Michael McCorristin Rd. Trenton, NJ 08690
DON’T LET THE STATE TAKE YOUR ESTATE Kathleen Scott Chasar, Esq. Family and Elder Law Asset Protection
- Wills - Living Wills - Trusts - Power of Attorney - Divorce - Child Support - Real Estate Closing
(609) 882-2200 • 903 Parkway Avenue • Ewing, NJ 08618
Kschasar.law@gmail.com
16 Lawrence Gazette | April 2021
Senior Ariana Garcia, above center, signed a letter of intent to play basketball at Rutgers-Camden University. Pictured with her are her sister, Jaslin, her mother Ivonne. In the back row is her father, Pedro, and Antonio Stapleton, LHS varsity girls’ basketball coach. Below is senior Jalen Burks, center, who signed a letter of intent to play football at Chestnut Hill next fall. Seated next to him is his sister, Noel, and mother, Toy. At rear are his aunt, Rose Oliver, his cousin, Peyton Ivey, cousin Makenzie Ivey and uncle, Sterick Ivey. (Photos by Sam Pastorella.)
CROSSWORD
mmunity News Service - Trenton/Lawrence/Robbinsville Crossword - 4/21
Across
1
2
3
4
5
13
1 Gush forth 16 5 Wharton grad 8 Burn with hot 20 19 water 24 25 13 Come from 28 behind 14 Neighbor of 33 Mo. 36 37 38 15 Bud Grace comic strip 41 42 16 Bowie’s last 46 47 stand 51 52 17 Fruitcake item 18 Bob’s 55 56 companion 61 62 19 Henpeck 66 20 ___-Hill publishing 69 23 Part of a rose 24 Sound 26 Last ___ 63 Director 28 Stands for Howard 29 “Monty 64 Habituate Python” airer 66 Young hog 30 Flock member 67 Quirky 33 Expression of 68 Illustrious disgust 69 Bad-tempered 34 Watchdog 70 Prefix with 36 Glance over classical 39 Coquettish 71 Insipid 40 Sail support 41 Graz resident Down 44 Mortar porter 46 Network inits. 1 Muslim salute 47 Pop-ups, e.g. 2 Infestation 48 Neptune’s 3 Glade shade realm 4 Casper is there 51 Lacking vitality 5 Like some 54 Boot camp boss vases 55 Misplace 6 Squib 57 More ventilated 7 Acolyte 59 Galley need 8 Put in stitches 61 Tobacco kilns
6
7
PuzzleJunction.com
8
9
14
15
17
18
21
22 26
11
12
30
31
32
49
50
23 27
29 34
35
39
40 44
43
45
48 53 57
10
54 58
59
63
64
67
68
70
71
60
65
©2021 PuzzleJunction.com
9 High point 10 Curse 11 Not prerecorded 12 Consider 13 Jogged 21 Blackjack 22 Emily of “Our Town” 25 Intimidate 27 Big heart? 31 Kind of cabinet 32 Bankrupt 34 An Everly brother 35 Golf’s ___ Cup 36 Baglike structure 37 Pack animal 38 Tax man 39 Like some stomachs
42 Battle of Britain grp. 43 Concept 44 Gardener’s need 45 Egg-shaped instrument 49 Rabbitlike rodent 50 Closed in on 52 Kind of position 53 Lose ground? 55 Red ink amount 56 Home to Honolulu 58 Prefix with China 60 Checkers color 62 Piggery 65 Negative joiner
Puzzle solution on Page 23
THE BUXTON-MONSPORT TEAM SELLS LAWRENCE!
Wet Basement?
APS
• Foundation Restoration • Wall & Floor Coatings • All types of Masonry repairs • Sump Pumps Installed & Serviced
609.658.1127 609.987.8889
dawnmonsport@verizon.net mcutaneo5@gmail.com sprettyman@kw.com
Email: paul@apennacchi.com • Web: www.APennacchi.com Contractor Lic. #13VH01138400
• All Phases of Waterproofing Above & Below Grade • French Drain Systems • Structure Repairs
Mark: Office:
Mercer County’s Oldest Waterproofing Contractor Deal Directly with Owner/Operator
(609) 394-7354
609.462.8333
Stefanie: 609.954.5206
Call a. PennaCChi & SonS. Co.
waterProofing teChnologieS
Dawn:
Mark Stefanie Dawn John Mercer CountyTop Producers: $35M in 2020 Broker & Sales Associates Licensed in NJ & PA April 2021 | Lawrence Gazette17
workers here and across America. To share your thanks or to support our Emergency Response Fund,
How to fall asleep and stay asleep visit rwjbh.org/heroes
And please, for them, stay home and safe.
ble falling asleep? If you have symptoms of sleep When you cannot fall asleep or stay apnea or other medical conditions asleep on an ongoing basis, you might that can affect your sleep, your doctor have insomnia. Insomnia can be a tem- might order a sleep study, which can porary or long-term condition caused be performed in a sleep center, like by aour stressful RWJ Sleep Care CenSee ads inor traumatic event,section a medical conditer in Robbinsville, or SIX09 tion5 or elements at home. Your doctor pgs andcertain 7 of your lifestyle. It also will determine which becomes more common is more appropriate By Dr. Marcella Frank with age. If you experifor you. Today’s sleep Heroes Work important? Here_4.313x11.25_HAM.indd 1 1:21 PM ence symptoms of4/17/20 insomtests reveal informaWhyRWJ-104 is sleep tion on sleep-wake disSleep is essential to maintaining nia, I recommend talking turbances, which helps your mental and physical well-being. to your doctor. What is sleep apnea? your doctor to better Not being well-rested can also affect Sleep apnea when you understand the reasons your mood, which might impact your for your sleep chalrelationships with others. Sticking to a frequently start and stop lenges and more sucregular sleep schedule, avoiding stress- breathing while you sleep. cessfully treat them. ful activities and ensuring your room is Heavy snoring is often a To schedule an dark and free of distractions can help symptom of sleep apnea. appointment with Dr. you achieve a restful night’s sleep. If There are three kinds of Dr. Frank Frank or to arrange for you still find you have difficulty falling sleep apnea. Obstructive a sleep study, call (609) asleep or staying asleep, or if you just do sleep apnea occurs when not feel rested after a full night’s sleep, the muscles in your throat relax too 245-7430. Dr. Frank practices at RWJ ask your doctor to help you figure out much when you sleep. Central sleep Primary Care Express, 3100 Quakerapnea occurs when your brain does not bridge Rd., Mercerville, and RWJ Sleep why. send your body proper signals to con- Care Center, 1 Union St., Robbinsville. Can screens affect my sleep? About Robert Wood Johnson UniFalling asleep with the television on trol your breathing while you sleep. may affect the quality of your sleep. Fur- Someone who has both obstructive versity Hospital Hamilton: Located in ther, the light from your TV, cell phone or and central sleep apnea may be diag- Hamilton Township, NJ, Robert Wood computer can affect your body’s ability to nosed with complex sleep apnea syn- Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, produce melatonin, a hormone essential drome. If you snore loudly or wake an RWJBarnabas Health facility, serves to a healthy sleep/wake cycle. If you are up gasping for air at night, talk to your communities within a five-county area and includes an acute care hospital, deficient in melatonin, it becomes harder doctor about sleep apnea. When might I benefit from a cancer center, affiliated medical group, to fall asleep and stay asleep. Lakeview Child Centers and the RWJ FitWhat should I do if I have trou- sleep study? ness & Wellness Center. RWJBarnabas Health and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, in partnership with Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey—the state’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center—brings a world class team of researchers and specialists to fight alongside you, providing close-to-home access to the latest treatment and clinical trials. For more information, visit RWJBH.org/Hamilton.
Ask The Doctor
Coming up this month at RWJBH Hamilton
Assisted Living and Memory Care with
a whole lotta heart.
NOW OPEN! CALL TODAY TO FIND OUT
MORE ABOUT THE AREA’S NEWEST ASSISTED LIVING AND MEMORY CARE COMMUNITY!
Thursday, April 1
Q&A with Dr. Ali. Bring your health and wellness questions to this casual conversation with Sara I. Ali, MD, Geriatric and Internal Medicine. She has answers for you! Part of the Better Health Programs for Age 65+ series. Virtual class. Call (609) 584-5900 to register. 1 p.m.
Wednesday, April 7
Kids in the Kitchen…Virtual! Green and clean! Fresh ideas packed with nutrients and kid-friendly flavor. Dietitian-directed and kid-created in the comfort of your own kitchen! Virtual class. Call (609) 5845900 to register. 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, April 8
1750 Yardville-Hamilton Square Road • Hamilton 609.241.9538 • TheLandingOfHamilton.com
18 Lawrence Gazette | April 2021
The Impact of Allergies on Sleep. Allergies can disrupt sleep and cause problems like snoring or sleep apnea. Common CPAP problems are discussed, as well as a review of devices and masks. Anthony J. Ricketti, MD, board certified, fellowship-trained allergist and Peter Ricketti, DO. Virtual class. Call (609) 584-5900 to register. 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, April 14
Suicide Prevention. The more you know, the greater likelihood of saving a life. Learn about the prevalence, warning signs and major risk factors surrounding who chooses suicide, why, when, and how. Most importantly, what can we do to help? Professor Jo-Ann Hoffman presents. Virtual class. Call (609) 584-5900 to register. 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, April 15
Well-Being 101: Unlock Higher Levels of Health, Joy and Abundance! Learn how to increase your well-being without changing the core of who you are or doing things you don’t want to do. Kathi Szabo of Eclectic Well Being. Virtual class. Call (609) 584-5900 to register. 6 p.m.
FRIDAY, April 16
After School Snack Club. Who says healthy has to be boring? Work virtually alongside a dietitian to liven up your afternoon snack routine. This is a three-class series for elementary age and above—other sessions held April 23 and 30. Virtual class. Call (609) 584-5900 to register. 4 p.m.
Monday, April 19
Fit Families: A Virtual Wellness Program. Are you looking to make healthy habit changes for your family? This dietitiandirected series will focus on nutrition basics, budget-friendly recipes, and incorporating fitness into daily routines. Other sessions held April 26, May 3 and May 10. Virtual class. Call (609) 584-5900 to register. 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, april 20
Tai Chi. Reduce stress and anxiety and increase flexibility and balance with Tai Chi. Presented in partnership with the RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center. Part of the Better Health Programs for Age 65+ series. Virtual class. Call (609) 584-5900 to register. 2 p.m. Common Hand and Wrist Conditions. Learn the causes and latest non-surgical and surgical treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, basal joint arthritis, ganglion cysts and other hand conditions. Kimberly Zambito, MD, board certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon. Virtual class. Call (609) 584-5900 to register. 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, April 21
Safe and Strong at Home. Learn exercises you can do at home to improve your strength and balance from Huzefa Hussain, MS, OTR/L, senior occupational therapist, RJWUH Hamilton. Part of the Better Health Programs for Age 65+ series. Virtual class. Call (609) 584-5900 to register. 10 a.m.
Tuesday, April 27
Breast Health: A Holistic Approach. Learn what you can do to naturally care for your breasts. Patti McDougall, integrative nurse. Virtual class. Call (609) 5845900 to register. 7 p.m.
Wednesday, April 28
Importance of Infection Control in the Time of Pandemic. Infection control in the time of pandemic is critical and highly important. Join Anne Dikon, director, Infection Prevention RWJ University Hospital at Hamilton as she tackles basic infection prevention. Virtual class. Call (609) 584-5900 to register. 11 a.m.
HEALTH @capitalhealthnj
APRIL 2021
HEADLINES
B I - M O N T H LY N E W S F R O M C A P I TA L H E A LT H
Capital Health Welcomes New Neurology Specialists to Capital Institute for Neurosciences
“When patients require expert care for complex neurological conditions such as stroke, aneurysms, and brain and spine trauma, they look to our Capital Institute for Neurosciences,” said Dr. Dustin Rochestie, director of Neurology and Neurocritical Care. “Drs. Patel, Kiviat, Kananeh, and Patel add additional depth and experience to our team, so patients can be confident they’re receiving the most advanced neuroscience care in the region.”
Capital Health Regional Medical Center includes one of the largest dedicated Neuro ICUs in the state to care for the most complex neuroscience patients. DR. MOHAMMED KANANEH is one of the hospital’s fellowship trained neuro critical care physicians who provide intensive care for patients with life threatening conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain or spine injury, brain aneurysms, and other serious neurological disorders. He was fellowship trained in neurocritical care at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He completed his neurology residency at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, where he also completed his internal medicine internship.
DR. PRATIT PATEL joined the team to treat patients requiring endovascular intervention and diagnostics for cerebrovascular conditions like brain aneurysm, stroke, carotid and intracranial stenosis, arteriovenous malformation (AVM), arteriovenous fistula, and subdural hematoma. He is board certified in vascular neurology, neurology and neurosonology (ultrasonic imaging of the brain and other neural structures). Dr. Patel uses minimally invasive neuroendovascular techniques to treat patients accessing the brain’s vascular system using a catheter through the groin area or wrist. After completing his neurology residency at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Dr. Patel was fellowship trained in vascular neurology at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and later completed additional fellowship training in endovascular surgical neuroradiology at Rutgers University in Newark, New Jersey.
Capital Institute for Neurosciences also offers care in the outpatient setting. Neurologist DR. MITEN PATEL, who recently joined the Institute’s Pennington-based practice, is board certified in neurology and fellowship trained in neuromuscular medicine. He received his medical degree at University College London in London, England. He went on to complete further graduate studies at University of Cambridge and conducted research at the Sanger Institute, which culminated in an MPhil degree. Dr. Patel completed his neurology residency at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, New York, where he also completed his fellowship training in neuromuscular medicine, with an emphasis on electromyography (EMG). EMG is used to detect neuromuscular abnormalities by measuring electrical activity and muscle response to a nerve’s stimulation of the muscle.
DR. DAVID KIVIAT received his medical degree from the University of Florida, where he also completed his neurology training. He has treated patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings and has managed care in the neuro ICU, stroke unit, and inpatient neurology service. Dr. Kiviat works with the Capital Health team as a part of its neurohospitalist service, treating patients with a wide range of neurologic disorders and emergencies. Dr. Kiviat is also experienced in neuroradiology, routine and long-term electroencephalograms (EEG) studies, and lumbar punctures.
Capital Institute for Neurosciences provides the most advanced neuroscience care and treatments for conditions such as stroke, aneurysms, vascular malformations, carotid artery disease, cerebrovascular disorders, brain tumors, brain and spine trauma, and complex spine care. Surgical services include neuroendovascular surgery, neurovascular surgery, microsurgery, brain tumor and skull base surgery, as well as advanced spine surgery. Capital Health’s Stroke and Cerebrovascular Center also operates a Mobile Stroke Unit, the first unit of its kind to go live in New Jersey and the Delaware Valley.
Capital Health recently welcomed Dr. Pratit Patel, Dr. Mohammed Kananeh, Dr. David Kiviat and Dr. Miten Patel to its Capital Institute for Neurosciences. The new providers include fellowship trained and board certified specialists who join the Institute in providing the most advanced neuroscience care and treatments to patients in central New Jersey and Lower Bucks County in Pennsylvania.
To learn more, visit capitalneuro.org.
Health Headlines by Capital Health | Lawrence Gazette19
Capital Health Introduces NEW ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORD TO IMPROVE PATIENT CARE Capital Health, a regional leader in providing progressive, quality patient care, is now using a new electronic health record (EHR) across its two hospitals’ acute care areas to better serve the community and its patients. The EHR from global health care technology company Cerner Corporation supports doctors, nurses and staff to document and access critical patient information to make treatment decisions, ensure safety and improve the health care experience. "During this challenging time, we are proud to offer our patients an improved health care experience through the launch of our new EHR,” said Gene Grochala, chief information officer, Capital Health. “Despite the challenges of COVID-19, our staff came together to successfully launch this new technology as part of our commitment to the health and well-being of our patients. We look forward to showing the community the benefits of this new system in simplifying and streamlining our ability to provide highquality health care services.” The new Cerner EHR will support Capital Health clinicians to efficiently document and access patient information all in one location. Having the most up-to-date patient information at their fingertips supports clinicians in making the most appropriate and informed data-driven decisions. It also means patients who receive care at both Capital Health hospitals may not have to fill out as much paperwork because their critical health data will be able to follow them between locations. "Setting up a new EHR during a global pandemic is not a simple task, and Capital Health overcame immense challenges to complete the project for the benefit of its patients and clinicians,” said Brian Kincade, senior director and general manager, Cerner. “We were able to successfully move a large portion of the design and build activity to a virtual environment, due to social distancing and travel restrictions, without skipping a beat. Capital Health’s dedication to getting the new system up and running, while also providing life-saving care amid COVID-19, is a testament to its commitment to the community.” Patients will also have access to their health records through Cerner’s secure online patient portal. Once enrolled, patients can securely exchange messages with their care team, view health information and records, settle balances and view upcoming appointments. Through greater access to their own information, Capital Health is empowering patients to take a more active role in their care to support health and well-being. Capital Health is the Central New Jersey/Lower Bucks County region's leader in providing progressive, quality patient care with significant investments in physicians, nurses and staff, as well as advanced technology. Comprised of two hospitals (Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton, NJ and Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell), an outpatient facility in Hamilton, NJ, and various primary and specialty care practices across the region, Capital Health is a dynamic health care provider accredited by DNV GL – health care and a four-time Magnet®-recognized health system for nursing excellence. For more information, visit capitalhealth.org.
20Lawrence Gazette | Health Headlines by Capital Health
SIGN UP FOR CAPITAL HEALTH’S HOSPITAL PATIENT PORTAL CAPITAL HEALTH’S FREE ONLINE HOSPITAL PATIENT PORTAL GIVES YOU ACCESS TO YOUR HEALTH SUMMARY if you were admitted to one of our hospitals or visited one of our Emergency Departments on or after July 15, 2015. Outpatient diagnostic test results and laboratory results are available from July 1, 2016. Additional features to help you better manage your health will become available at a later time. Our portals are available to patients 18 years of age or older. Parents or guardians of patients under the age of 18 who wish to have access to their child’s medical records are asked to call our Health Information Management Department at 609.303.4085 (Hopewell) or 609.394.4460 (Regional Medical Center).
PREVIOUS PORTAL SIGN UP:
(for visits from July 15, 2015 – February 5, 2021) • Visit capitalhealth.org/myportal. Click on the link for the Capital Health Hospital Patient Portal July 15, 2015 – February 5, 2021. • Use your personal (not work) email. You should receive a confirmation email once you have registered for the new patient portal. • You must have an email address in order to register for the portal.
NEW PORTAL SIGN UP: (for visits from February 6, 2021 – present) • Visit capitalhealth.org/myportal. Click on the link for the Capital Health Hospital Patient Portal February 6, 2021 – present. • Use your personal (not work) email. You should receive a confirmation email once you have registered for the new patient portal. • You must have an email address in order to register for the portal.
Capital Health Specialty Practices – Bordentown is located on the second floor at 100 K Johnson Blvd N, Suite 201, Bordentown, New Jersey 08505.
CAPITAL HEALTH OPENS NEW MULTISPECIALTY CARE OFFICE IN BORDENTOWN Expanding access to specialty health care service for residents in Burlington County, Capital Health recently opened its new Specialty Practices – Bordentown location at 100 K Johnson Blvd N, Suite 201, Bordentown, New Jersey 08505 (on the northbound side of Route 130, across from the Team 85 Fitness & Wellness Center). The new office shares a building that is also home to Capital Health Primary Care – Bordentown and Rothman Orthopaedics. “Thanks to the continued growth of Capital Health Medical Group, access to expert health care in Burlington County is more convenient than ever,” said Al Maghazehe, president and CEO of Capital Health. “When our neighbors who live or work in Burlington County need specialized care for more complex conditions, our new Specialty Practices – Bordentown location brings highly trained clinicians under the same roof as our Primary Care – Bordentown team to streamline their care and address a wider range of health care needs.” The providers at Capital Health Specialty Practices – Bordentown are part of Capital Health Medical Group, a network of more than 400 physicians and providers who offer carefully coordinated primary and specialty care. All Medical Group offices use a shared electronic medical records system, which allows providers to access medical records on secure network, making it convenient for patients to continue their care across our network of primary and specialty care providers. Patients can also manage their health easier using our Capital Health Medical Group patient portal, which allows them to conveniently access information about any of their office visits online. For more information about Capital Health Specialty Practices – Bordentown, visit capitalhealth.org/specialtybordentown.
Capital Health – Behavioral Health Specialists clinicians, including DR. CHRISTI WESTON, DR. ARVIND BHASKER, DR. KRISTINA MCGUIRE, and licensed clinical social worker VICTORIA PENACARDINALLI, provide compassionate psychiatric care, counseling services, and advanced treatment (such as transcranial magnetic stimulation for depression) in a warm, calming environment. To learn more, visit capitalhealth.org/behavioralhealth or call 609.689.5725 to schedule an appointment. Capital Health – Endocrinology Specialists includes DRS. SHERI GILLIS-FUNDERBURK, ERIKA VILLANUEVA, JOANNA TOLIN, SUNIL THOMAS, and NAZISH AHMAD, who provide care for people living with diabetes, thyroid disorders, metabolic bone diseases (such as osteoporosis), and other problems involving the endocrine (or gland) system. To learn more, visit capitalendocrinology.org or call 609.303.4300 to schedule an appointment. Capital Health – Gastroenterology Specialists includes fellowship trained gastroenterologists DRS. MARK SAXENA, WASEEM BUTT, and MICHAEL ITIDIARE, as well as nurse practitioner LISA COSTELLO, all of whom specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of general diseases of the digestive system for adult patients. Visit capitalgastro.org to learn more or schedule an appointment by calling 609.528.8884. Capital Health – Pediatric Gastroenterology Specialists, led by fellowship trained pediatric gastroenterologist DR. SABEENA FARHATH, provides patient-focused care with compassion for treating gastrointestinal illnesses in infants, children, adolescents, and young adults. Visit capitalhealth.org/pediatricgi to learn more or schedule an appointment by calling 609.528.8894. Capital Health – Rheumatology Specialists includes fellowship trained rheumatologists DRS. WILLIAM TORELLI, RISHI PATEL, and LEIGH SEGAL, who specialize in the care and treatment of conditions that affect the joints, muscles, bones, and immune system. For more information, visit capitalrheumatology.org or call 609.303.4360 to schedule an appointment. Capital Health – Pediatric Orthopedics features DR. MEGAN GRESH, a board certified and fellowship trained pediatric orthopedic surgeon who is dedicated solely to diagnosing, treating, and managing musculoskeletal conditions in children. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call 609.537.6000. Health Headlines by Capital Health | Lawrence Gazette21
Capital Health Earns
NATIONAL HONOR FOR EXCELLENCE in Treating Pancreatic Cancer The National Pancreas Foundation (NPF) recently recognized Capital Health Cancer Center as an NPF Center for treating pancreatic cancer. After a rigorous audit, Capital Health earned this designation by demonstrating a focus on the multidisciplinary treatment of pancreatic cancer—treating the whole patient—with a goal of achieving the best possible outcomes and an improved quality of life.
To earn recognition as an NPF Center, Capital Health met comprehensive standards developed by a task force of pancreatic cancer experts and patient advocates. The criteria include having expert physicians in specialties such as gastroenterology, pancreas surgery, and interventional radiology, along with more patient-focused programs such as pain management, behavioral health, and more.
“Being named an NPF Center for the treatment of pancreatic cancer is a great honor for Capital Health, but it is even better news for patients who need our services,” said DR. CATALDO DORIA, medical director of Capital Health Cancer Center and a hepato-pancreato-biliary surgeon. “This designation is a result of the great work done by teams across disciplines at our Cancer Center every day and reaffirms Capital Health’s commitment to providing innovative, world-class care that is close to home for patients in Central New Jersey and surrounding regions.”
Capital Health Cancer Center, located at Capital Health Medical Center - Hopewell, is the area’s most advanced provider of cancer treatment delivered by some of the most experienced medical experts, led by medical director Dr. Cataldo Doria. At the Center, a team of physicians from related fields such as medical oncology, radiation oncology, gynecological oncology, neurosurgery, hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery, interventional GI and pulmonology, radiology, plastic and reconstructive surgery, colorectal surgery, thoracic surgery and other specialties collaborate and provide patients with a network of physicians trained in the most complex oncology issues.
KNOW THE RISK OF PANCREATIC CANCER Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading causes of cancerrelated deaths in the US, with more than 48,000 new cases diagnosed each year. Though the exact cause of pancreatic cancer are not yet well understood, research studies have identified certain risk factors that may increase the likelihood that an individual will develop the disease.
For more information, visit capitalhealth.org/cancer.
OBESE people have a 20% increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer compared to people who are of normal weight
DIET high in red and processed meats is thought to increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer
SMOKING is associated with 20 – 30% of all pancreatic cancer cases
PANCREATIC CANCER RISK FACTORS
FAMILY HISTORY: 2 – 3 times increased risk if a first-degree relative (parent, sibling or child), is diagnosed with pancreatic cancer
PANCREATITIS: Chronic or hereditary
Slightly more MEN are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer than women
22Lawrence Gazette | Health Headlines by Capital Health
AGE: Most people diagnosed are greater than 60 years of age
LONG-STANDING, (over 5 years) diabetes
To vaccinate or not to vaccinate
their citizens than state and federal officials.” As I let this statement sink in, I FRoM THE MAnAGER’S DESK began to think to myself that this “ask” is much bigger and more personal As I write this article, our commu- than the “ask” to advocate for all to nity has had 2028 positive COVID-19 “mask-up, wash your hands throughcases (not positive tests) and 90 deaths. out the day, and keep a safe, social In the U.S., we have had 29.4 mil- distance.” Personally, it makes me uncomfortlion cases and have endured 539,000 deaths, and worldwide there have able to advocate for others to get vacbeen 121 million cases and 2.7 million cinated. I don’t have the education, deaths. These numbers continue to knowledge, or scientific background to be qualified enough (for me) to grow daily, both globally and locally. I reject any argument that attempts advocate for other people to inject the to diminish the loss of human life with vaccine into their bodies. But, I am comfortable sharing with claims that most are elderly or had you why I chose to get vaccinated (I pre-existing conditions. These are human beings with family still have one to go in a week) and why and friends that mourn them deeply. I thought my wife (now vaccinated) To be marginalized for any reason is and children (when eligible) should wrong, and to believe that the virus get it done too. First, to be clear, my thinking is can’t infect you or a loved one, regarddevoid of any political agenda whatless of age, is foolish. We can now fight this virus with soever. I have said from the first time more than just social distancing, I publicly commented on this panmask-wearing and keeping our hands demic, and every time since, political clean and away from our faces. Sci- viewpoints and blind loyalties have ence has delivered to us vaccines that absolutely no place of value in the have proven to be effective in saving fight against a world pandemic, a publives. We are well into delivering these lic health crisis like we have not expevaccines into the arms of as many peo- rienced in the past 100 years. None. And with the latest polling showing ple as the current inventory allows. Public health officials estimate that that a disproportionate and significant vaccines will be available to all from percentage of people from one politithe age of 16 and older by mid-year cal party opting not to get the vacif we continue in our present course. cine over people of the other political The challenge then turns to convince party is equally mind-numbing and a mistrusting portion of the public to mind-boggling. Former President Donald Trump vaccinate. This past Sunday, I was watching and his wife were vaccinated in Janua news conference where a public ary and have since publicly encourhealth official was asked the follow- aged others to vaccinate. President ing question, “What should be done Biden and his wife were vaccinated now to convince the American public and joined in the effort to convince to receive this vaccine?” He answered, the public to follow. If the leaders of “We need a concerted effort by local opposing political parties decided on I don’t understand why ews Serviceoffi - Trenton/Lawrence/Robbinsville Crossword - 4/21 cials in communities across the vaccination, country to work to get as many people political affiliation is still a factor now. as possible vaccinated because they Politics and Pandemic? Far from “Perenjoy more personal connections with fect Together.”
KEVIN NERWINSKI
I also have done a deep dive into the history of the science behind the vaccine to understand better how the vaccine was created and how it works. I was encouraged to discover that the actual “race” to find this vaccine started more than 15 years ago with leading scientists from worldclass pharmaceutical companies and research institutes working to fight various novel coronaviruses leading up to the one we fight now. In fact, the vaccines we are delivering today were almost wholly developed before the first case of the virus was discovered in the U.S. early last year. With science so far along already in the vaccine research and development, and add the full force of our federal government, the teamwork between experienced and committed public health officials and top scientists, and add $9,000,000,000 used for human trials over the following nine months, I have more confidence in the vaccine than if I just looked from afar and marveled at the time-frame between March 2020 and December 2020 without knowing more. This, coupled with how the vaccine works within the body (too long for me to describe here, but the Mayo
At YoUr sErVICE
6 Issues $59 PER ISSUE. For more information call 609-396-1511
Desk, Laptop & Servers Servicing computer networkS
609.571.0117
PuzzleJunction.com
Professional inspection services for Termites, Radon, and Mold.
Puzzle solution from Page 17
S P R A L A L A N A G A U M E S C A A U S C B S E L O S O A S S H O S U R
E W L Y M O M D I A N U G N T R A F F E T S A T L Y
M I N C G O S H C I A D S E T A I R O N
B L U R B
A L T A R B D O O Y N E R O D E
W E B B
H O S I E N D O
S C A L E R N I W E A V S T E A T H C E W E R M A Y A R O D C E A N A R G E R O A I N U R N O T E A R I D
D E E M E N D
Mackay’s
Tree Service (609) 466-2294
$10 OFF
Serving Mercer County & Surrounding Areas
with this ad
Trimming • Removal Hedge Trimming • Stump Removal
Any Service
609.393.0606
PESTBLASTER.COM
groveplumbingllc@gmail.com
R E D
on Site buSineSS or reSidenceS A+, n+, ccnA it FundAmentAlS
For all your pest control needs!
Solution Puzzle solution
Clinic website offers excellent information. Go to mayoclinic.org/coronavirus-vaccine/art-20484859) convinced me to trust the science behind the vaccine. We all can acknowledge the incredible discoveries and inventions the human race has made throughout history—in engineering, science, and technology. This vaccine lines up well with other tremendous feats of humankind. So, I believe in the vaccine’s science, and I think it necessary to stop the spread of this deadly virus. If the current polling holds and a significant number of people choose not to vaccinate, establishing immunity will be delayed for years, and the virus and all the destruction it causes will continue. My decision to be vaccinated was not based on protecting myself. As with wearing a mask and social distancing, it was done (and is still being done) to protect others and do my part (taking personal responsibility for the public good) to stop the spread. I want us to re-open as quickly as possible, but I also want it to be done safely—valuing every life, regardless of age-- equally. The best way that I felt I could help now was to be vaccinated.
From minor plumbing repairs to complete remodels, Sewer replacement, Water Service replacement.
INSURED
JAMES MACKAY - OWNER FREE ESTIMATES
SQUE A V Z JR tREE SERVicE
tREE REmoval, tRimming and stump gRinding.
FREE EstimatEs! 609-203-7821 April 2021 | Lawrence Gazette23
Banking committed to your needs. And your community. We’re a part of the communities we serve. At Investors Bank, your needs matter. Because when people and businesses succeed, our communities thrive. We combine the resources you want with the relationship and personal attention you deserve. Investors Bank provides: Convenient locations with more on their way A range of trusted business and personal financial offerings Customized and convenient online and mobile banking options Outstanding and responsive customer service We’re invested in your needs and working with you to meet them. To learn more, visit investorsbank.com.
24 Lawrence Gazette | April 2021