6-20 RA by Community News Service

Advance Robbinsville

Inside this issue:

SIX09

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JUNE 2020 FREE

Class of 2020 reflects on senior year As the 2019-2020 school year wraps up, Robbinsville High School seniors are looking ahead to college, their future plans and post-high school life—and, as we do every year, the Advance sent 10 of the Class of 2020’s district-selected exceptional students a questionnaire about RHS life and their post-R’ville plans. This year’s interview questions included the usual fare, like what college they plan to attend, RHS extracurriculars and favorite quotes. The Class of 2020 was active in the RHS community. They participated activities like varsity sports, National Honor Society, World Language Honor Society, FIRST Robotics, Leadership Corps, Math League and Model UN. They will attend colleges like Johns Hopkins University, Duke University, the University of Michigan, Georgia Tech and the United States Air Force Academy, where they will major in mathematics, the sciences, multiple engineering disciplines and neuroscience. And the students were able to decide all of this as their senior years—and lives—were upended by the COVID-19 pandemic. Each student was asked about their school experiences during isolation and how the virus affected their final semester of high school. To see their responses, turn to Page 12.

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School board OKs budget

Township honors late veteran

BY SAM SCIARROTTA

Robbinsville Mayor Dave Fried reads a proclamation in recognition of Lt. Col. John Kapferer, who died in April and is Robbinsville’s most decorated veteran. Kapferer was honored May 4 with a drive-by parade, salute, street renaming of Newtown Boulevard and a framed resolution.

Township address takes new form Fried touches on ﬂat taxes, coronavirus relief in speech BY SAM SCIARROTTA

Robbinsville Mayor Dave Fried’s annual State of the Township address has become somewhat of a tradition in town—each year, Fried delivers his address at a gala fundraiser in support of a local individual, cause or family. With this year’s contribution, Robbinsville has raised $350,000 since 2015. It looked a little different this year, though, as Fried spoke virtually from the municipal building due to COVID-19 precautions. The township originally

planned to put funds raised from this year’s State of the Township address toward a general fund—We Love Our R’Ville Neighbors. He said the pandemic only cemented the need for it. “So many local families were in need of support even before we ever heard the word coronavirus—families such as the Semmels, the Areneos and the Dorans, among others,” Fried said. “The more than $50,000 raised since March will be part of the We Love Our R’ville Neighbors fund managed by the CARE Program, and it will make a real difference in our community.” Coronavirus was a recurring theme in Fried’s address. Fried thanked healthcare workers, first responders and

township staff and thanked township council and the school district for a smooth transition to remote services. The township also provided 20,000 protective face masks to residents and offered the municipal building’s parking lot as a COVID-19 test site. He cited business administrator Joy Tozzi and senior center director Renee Burns as “instrumental” in converting the Robbinsville Senior Center into the township’s COVID-19 relief hub, where personal protective equipment, food and donated supplies were collected and distributed. Fried encouraged residents to be “responsible and respectful” as the state graduSee ADDRESS, Page 5

The Robbinsville Board of Education approved a $48.72 million budget for the 2020-21 school year on April 27. The budget will result in no increase in school taxes. However, there is an increase of $455,816 over last year’s spending package. “In spite of the challenges we currently face, the new budget continues to reflect our strong commitment to mindful and deliberate investing so our students can thrive socially, emotionally and academically,” said superintendent Kathie Foster in a letter to the community. “We strive to offer a wide variety of rigorous programs and diverse learning experiences, both in-class and extra-curricular, to convey the essential skills and knowledge necessary to be Robbinsville Ready for life in the real world.” This is Foster’s last budget (See column on Page 18). Following her retirement, Brian Betze takes over as superintendent starting July 1 and will inherit the budget. The budget is supported, in part, by $38.4 million in taxes. The district anticipates $7.8 million in state aid—an increase of $466,372 from the previous school year. Taxes account for 79 percent of the district’s total revenue. Other sources of alternate revenue include shared services, facility rentals, student activity fees, the RobSee BUDGET, Page 5

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Back in the swing of things SAM SCIARROTTA FROM THE EDITOR

staff back at full capacity, we’re able to offer the same hyperlocal coverage you’ve come to expect over the years, like reporting on Mayor Dave Fried’s State of the Township address (see the cover) and interviewing each of Robbinsville High School’s 10 exception seniors on Page 6. We are continuing regional coverage at some level in our papers, though. Inserted in the center of this issue is the first edition of our new regional arts, food and culture publication, Six09. Our hope with Six09 is to present interesting and engaging content each month that will allow our readers to take full advantage of this vibrant region—extending south with our area code all the way to Cape May. We have many members of our staff lending their expertise in this area, including U.S. 1 arts editor Dan Aubrey. It’s been a long journey since the beginning of March. These last few months of total upheaval have felt like years. But we’re back. And we’re going to continue to keep you up to date and informed about what’s going on in Robbinsville—and beyond.

“Well, I’m back.” The final words of Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King always get me. The line is spoken by Samwise Gamgee in the last book (and movie) of J.R.R. Tolkien’s trilogy. It’s a sweet sentiment packed with plenty of feelings about home, loss, friendship and resting after a long, long journey. I’ve been re-reading the books during this period of isolation for a few reasons. First, I’m due for a revisit to Middle-earth. It’s also the greatest good versus evil story ever told, and, partially because of that, the trilogy has always been a huge source of comfort for me. It’s living up to that now, especially. Cracking open the series is like putting on a security blanket. I thought about Sam’s words when I came back to Community News in early May. I took a month-long furlough after the pandemic began, when businesses started to face closures and cutbacks. My colleagues Bill Sanservino and Rob Anthes, though, made sure readers across our coverage area still received their monthly Contact SAM SCIARROTTA: ssciarrotta@ dose of news—with a regional twist. communitynews.org, (609) 396-1511, ext. Now, with the community editorial 121, facebook.com/samsciarrotta1

Advance Robbinsville

we are a newsroom of your neighbors. The Advance is for local people, by local people. As part of the community, the Robbinsville Advance does more than just report the news—it connects businesses with their customers, organizations with their members and neighbors with one another. As such, our staﬀ sets out to make our town a closer place by giving readers a reliable source to turn to when they want to know what’s going on in their neighborhood. EDITOR Sam Sciarrotta (Ext. 121)

Community News Service 15 Princess Road, Suite K Lawrence, NJ 08648 Phone: (609) 396-1511

STAFF WRITER Nicole Viviano CONTRIBUTING COLUMNISTS Dave Fried, Kathie Foster SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jennifer Steﬀen (Ext. 113)

News: news@communitynews.org Events: events@communitynews.org Sports: sports@communitynews.org Letters: ssciarrotta@communitynews.org Website: robbinsvilleadvance.com Facebook: facebook.com/robbinsvilleadvance Twitter: twitter.com/mercerspace 8,000 copies of the Robbinsville Advance are mailed or bulk-distributed to the residences and businesses of Robbinsville 12 times a year.

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MANAGING EDITOR, COMMUNITY DIVISION Rob Anthes MANAGING EDITOR, METRO DIVISION Sara Hastings

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around town Sewer rates to increase

Hamilton Township Mayor Jeff Martin and Robbinsville Township Mayor Dave Fried jointly announced today that both municipalities deem it necessary to raise residential and commercial sewer rates for the first time in over a decade. The Hamilton Township wastewater facility is in dire need of infrastructure upgrades, officials said. Hamilton operates a regional wastewater treatment facility serving residents of both Hamilton and Robbinsville. The two towns have had a joint sewer agreement since 1976. Hamilton and Robbinsville, which have two of the lowest sewer rates in Mercer County, agreed to share the cost of a rate study. Following a comprehensive review by each township, residential sewer rates in each municipality will increase effective in July and reflected on the Oct. 1 bill. For Robbinsville residents, the proposed increase is $85 per-household for a total annual cost of $425. Previously, Hamilton and Robbinsville mutually agreed to dismiss a pending lawsuit regarding past sewer payments without prejudice. Both sides continue to work on reaching a long-term settlement, without the cost of attorneys. Every utility is required to file financial reports annually to the State of New Jersey by Feb. 10 of each year. As part of this reporting, a calculation done to ensure the utility is solvent, known as “self-liquidating.” It is important to maintain a self-liquidating status in order not to impede or effect municipal operations, officials said. The municipalities will rely on that data upon completion of the rate study to establish future shared costs. In an April 2018 wastewater utility financial survey conducted by the Hamilton Township Water Pollution Control, the total annual cost of our insurance shouldn’t be. Whether your needs a residential family of four in neighYour insurance shouldn’t be. Whether your needs boring municipalities in Mercer and e personal or business related, Nottingham Insurance offers an Burlington Counties ranged between are personal or business related, Nottingham Insurance offers an $600-900. The proposed increase must xtensive selection of insurance products. With over 100 years be presented and approved by each extensive selection of insurance products. With over 100 years municipality’s governing body. Such experience, we work with you to get the right coverage at an approvals still would result in a revised of experience, we work with you to get the right coverage at an average household sewer bill below fordable price. So that you can focus on what is important. the rate of neighboring municipalities. affordable price. that you can focus on what is important. “We know how important this infraWe’re there when lifeSohappens. structure is to the residents and busiWe’re there when life happens. nesses of Hamilton and Robbinsville,” Fried said. “This is also a health and ance shouldn’t be. Whether your needs safety issue with no room for politics. While no one likes a rate increase, espebusiness related, Nottingham Insurance offers an amid a pandemic, this is the only Serving NJ & PA • 877.999.1886 • nottinghaminsurance.com cially action that will ensure the facility is tion of insurance products. With over 100 years highly functional and properly run while Serving NJ & PA • 877.999.1886 • nottinghaminsurance.com we await the conclusion of the rate study.”

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Food drive set for June

Robbinsville Township is hosting a canned food drive, set for June 1 to 15 to benefit the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen and Arm in Arm. The township is seeking non-perishable items like canned, dried or jarred

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goods, bottled water and peanut butter, as well as dry goods like sugar and flour, and boxed cereals, pasta and crackers. The organizations are also accepting household essentials—toilet paper, paper towels, soap, toothpaste and other goods. Donations can be dropped off at 45 Spring Garden Rd. in Robbinsville, Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. A pickup option is also available. For more information, visit the Robbinsville Township Facebook page at facebook.com/robbinsvilletwp.

Township loans $4.1M to Hamilton

With Hamilton Township sitting on approximately $14.5 million in shortterm debt, known as bond anticipation notes, Robbinsville has stepped in to offer the neighboring town $4 million at an interest rate of 1 percent. Robbinsville’s rate of return from Hamilton will be 10 basis points higher than the rate currently provided by its bank. The short-term BAN has a maturity date of Feb. 17, 2021. “This is a win for Hamilton because it will be less expensive than going out to the traditional bond market, which is currently very volatile,” Robbinsville Mayor Dave Fried said. “It is also a win for Robbinsville because we will earn more in interest than what we are currently getting on our cash surplus. This is a way for us to help our neighbor, while increasing the return of our cash on hand now that bank rates have tumbled during the pandemic. It is a win-win for taxpayers on both sides.” In standard economic times, the market for New Jersey municipal debt usually mirrors the rates experienced by federal securities. With the recent trends of both federal securities and historically low interest rates, the interest rate municipalities would have to pay to borrow money for capital improvements would also be at or near a historic low. However, the economic impact of COVID-19 on the municipal debt market has created an environment with daily fluctuations ranging from roughly 1.5 to 4 percent. The Township of Hamilton approached Robbinsville to join in an economic partnership that would benefit both towns. On May 18, Hamilton sold just over $4 million of the $14.5 million in BAN to Robbinsville. Hamilton sold the remaining $10.5 million of notes to TD securities at a rate of 1.15 percent. The maturity date of the TD notes is Feb. 17, 2021. –Compiled by editor Sam Sciarrotta 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.

BUDGET continued from Page 1 binsville Extended Day program, the SPROUTS tuition-based preschool program, energy initiatives and transportation jointures. “This contribution will support our commitment to a lean and healthy budget, one that addresses our values and priorities while keeping the tax levy flat,” Foster said. “A top priority of our administration and board of education involves investing money back into the classrooms and providing resources to support students’ social-emotional learning.” Standard expenses for the 2020-21 school year are as follows: salaries, $27.99 million (58 percent); benefits, $8.27 million (17 percent); tuition, $2.1 million (5 percent); transportation, $2.32 million (5 percent); and $2.96 million (6 percent) for “other” expenditures. Among the programming that will benefit next year are a new sixth grade math program, new eighth grade Next Generation Science Standards, expanded online learning platforms, expanded middle school Science Online subscription, the one-to-one Chromebook initiative for students in grades 3 to 8, clubs and extracurricular activities. The district will also increase

financing for school resource officers and add three new faculty and staff members: a board certified behavioral analyst, an academic support teacher and a social worker. Also included in the budget are a number of maintenance and capital projects, including concrete and bollard at the high school, parking lot repairs at the high school, floor replacement in the A, B and F wings of the middle school and refinishing the middle school’s gym floor. “Over the years, we in Robbinsville Public Schools have worked diligently to become fiscally strong,” Foster said. “A hallmark of our district has been the ability to offset rising expenditures with alternative revenue sources. We continue to actively research ways to save taxpayer dollars and to create sustainable revenue sources in order to approach budgeting from a multi-year perspective.” Robbinsville currently spends the lowest amount per pupil in Mercer County at $16,445.

ADDRESS continued from Page 1 ally continues to reopen. “The bottom line is we need to be smart about the choices we make,” he said. “We’ve come too far. Deciding we are bored with this virus is not the reason to open up, and we must keep practicing good hygiene by hand-washing and keeping your hands away from your face. We will likely be wearing protective masks in public places for a while.” As far as other township news, Fried touched on the recently demolished Windsor School. The majority of the property will be converted into open space featuring a natural playground. He also announced that the township recreation department has relocated to the old Miry Run spot, and that the township will soon break ground on a new athletic facility where the pool once sat. In development news, the Wawa coming to the old National Pools and Spa site at Route 130 South and Meadowbrook Road is still set to open this fall, Fried said. The new Project Freedom Village is currently under construction and ahead of schedule, Fried said. That development, along with the township’s acquisition of the Mercer Mobile Home Park, helps Robbinsville fulfill its affordable housing obligation through 2025. Fried also announced in the address that the mobile home park has been renamed—it will now be known as Newtown Village. Fried also touted the township’s CARE opiate intervention program, which is currently operating at a 74 percent acceptance rate. “Being the first town to implement an opiate intervention program and telling our law-abiding residents that we are going to stop putting people in jail for possession of heroin was a little scary,” he said. “The CARE program works because sending people to

treatment is five times less costly than sending them to prison—and almost no one comes out of prison better off.” Municipal taxes will remain flat for the eighth straight year under this year’s budget. That stable tax rate, Fried said, allowed the township to allocate $200,000 to the Office of Emergency Management for personal protective equipment and other supplies. He also said that Robbinsville will continue to work with neighboring Hamilton to make improvements to their shared wastewater treatment facility. Fried and Hamilton Mayor Jeff Martin recently announced a joint increase in sewer taxes to help pay for vital infrastructure upgrades. “The proposed $85 annual increase per-household will help stabilize the sewer utility in the short term,” Fried said. “A rate study shared by Hamilton and Robbinsville will ensure everyone pays their fair share over the long term. This infrastructure is not only vital to our residents and businesses, but it is also a public safety issue.” Fried says he continues to work closely with Martin, as well as East Windsor Mayor Janice Mironov, meeting with each almost daily since the coronavirus crisis started. “It has been an honor to work with two incredibly smart and dedicated neighbors,” Fried said. “I really appreciate their friendship and unwavering support. Thank you to all the residents and local businesses for doing your part. We understand how difficult the past few months have been, and we will be there for you every step of the way during the slow, steady march to recovery. We will get through this together.”

Contact editor SAM SCIARROTTA: ssciarrotta@communitynews.org, (609) 396-1511, ext. 121.

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VOTE BY MAIL NOTICE TO PERSONS WANTING MAIL-IN BALLOTS If you are a qualiﬁed and registered voter of the State who wants to vote by mail in the Primary Election to be held on July 7, 2020, complete the application form below and send to the undersigned, or write or apply in person to the undersigned at once requesting that a mail-in ballot be forwarded to you. The request must state your home address and the address to which the ballot should be sent. The request must be dated and signed by voter. If any person has assisted you to complete the mail-in ballot application, the name, address and signature of the assistor must be provided on the application and, the voter must sign and date the application for it to be valid and processed. No person shall serve as an authorized messenger or as a bearer for more than three qualiﬁed voters

in an election. No person who is a candidate in the election for which the voter requests a mail-in ballot may provide any assistance in the completion of the ballot or may serve as an authorized messenger or bearer. No mail-in ballot will be provided to any applicant who submits a request therefor by mail unless the request is received at least seven days before the election and contains the requested information. A voter may, however, request an application in person from the County Clerk’s Oﬃce at 209 S. Broad St. 2nd Floor, Room 202 in Trenton NJ, up to 3 p.m. of the day before the election. Please note that the application is in a new form, in accordance with a new law allowing voters to select ballots for ALL FUTURE ELECTIONS

or ONLY ONE SINGLE ELECTION. Voters who want to vote only by mail in ALL FUTURE ELECTIONS in which they are eligible to vote must check this box on the form, and will be provided a mail-in ballot by the County Clerk for all future elections until the voter requests in writing to the County Clerk that the voter wishes for this to discontinue. The former choices no longer exist. A voter’s failure to vote in the fourth general election following the general election at which the voter last voted may result in the suspension of that voter’s ability to receive a mail-in ballot for all future elections. Application forms may be obtained by applying to the undersigned either in writing or by telephone, or by completing the application form provided below and mailing to the undersigned.

Dated: May 12, 2020, Mercer County Clerk, Paula Sollami Covello, 209 S. Broad St., P.O. Box 8068, Trenton, NJ 08650, 609-989-6494

APPLICATION FOR VOTE BY MAIL BALLOT

Primary Election to be held on July 7, 2020

APPLICATION FOR VOTE BY MAIL BALLOT

INSTRUCTIONS

•Fill out application. •Print and sign your name where indicated. •Mail or Deliver application to the County Clerk.

DO NOT FAX OR E-MAIL

Unless you are a Military or Overseas Voter

VOTING INFORMATION

1. You must be a registered voter in order to apply for a Mail-In Ballot. 2. Once you apply for a Mail-In Ballot, you will not be permitted to vote by machine at your polling place in the same election. 3. You will receive instructions with your ballot. 4. If returning your Mail-In Ballot in person it must be received by the County Board of Elections before close of polls on Election Day. If returning your Mail-In Ballot by mail, it must be postmarked no later than Election Day and received by the County Board of Elections no later than 48 hours after the time of the closing of the polls for the election. 5. Do not submit more than one application for the same election. 6. You must apply for a Mail-In Ballot for each election, unless you designate otherwise under Section 1.

PLEASE NOTE

A Voter may apply for a Mail-In Ballot by mail up to 7 days prior to the election. He or she may also apply in person to the County Clerk until 3 P.M. the day before the election. Voters also now have an option of automatically receiving a Mail-In Ballot for all future elections. If such voter no longer wants this option, the County Clerk’s ofﬁce must be notiﬁed in writing.

WARNING

This application must be received by the County Clerk not later than 7 days prior to the election, unless you apply in person or via an authorized messenger during County Clerk’s ofﬁce hours, but not later than 3 P.M. the day prior to the election.

6  Robbinsville Advance | June 2020

HEALTH @capitalhealthnj

JUNE 2020

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 READY FOR SAFE POST-PEAK REOPENING OF SERVICES

In uncertain times, people often look to their community institutions for a sense of stability and comfort. For many residents in Mercer, Bucks, and Burlington counties during the ongoing health crisis, Capital Health is that institution. As the region’s leader in providing progressive, quality patient care, Capital Health has been taking an organized approach to meeting the needs of the community during the COVID-19 crisis and going forward as restrictions start to ease. Now it prepares to welcome patients back and schedule elective procedures in a safe, healthy environment.

Health continues to practice all precautionary measures for safety. Patients who test positive for COVID-19 continue to be treated in a highly secure area that keeps patients in a safe environment while making sure all visitors and staff are protected.

RESUMING ELECTIVE SURGERIES During his daily COVID-19 media briefing on May 15, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced that hospitals in New Jersey will be permitted to resume elective surgeries starting Tuesday, May 26. Through intensive planning and implementation of processes that assure the highest level of patient and visitor safety, the health care professionals at Capital Health have a system of care that responds to all requirements for great services provided in a safe environment.

“There’s an old saying that describes how difficult challenges reveal who your true friends are,” said Sam Plumeri, Jr., chairman of the Capital Healthcare, Inc. Board of Trustees. “The outpouring of support we’ve seen shows that Capital Health has no shortage of friends in Mercer, Bucks, and Burlington counties. It also reaffirms our dedication to the safety of our community, now and in the future. It’s important for everyone to know that they can always rely on us to provide the safe care they need.”

“As we welcome more patients back in to our facilities, we are continuing to take necessary precautions to make sure the health and safety of our community and our staff remain the highest priority,” said Al Maghazehe, president and CEO of Capital Health. “We continue to practice social distancing, require visitors and staff to wear face mask and are fully operational.”

SAFETY FIRST Bolstered by the support of its community, Capital Health emergency departments and medical offices continue to take all the necessary precautions to keep patients safe on the front lines and across all service lines. Capital Health is now providing a broader range of inpatient and outpatient care that its neighbors can rely on as the pandemic evolves. This gradual reopening balances Capital Health’s patient-focused approach to care with best practices in infection prevention for our patients, visitors and staff.

CONTINUING VIDEO VISITS Capital Health will continue to offer video visits for both primary care and behavioral health through secure connections on patients’ computers or smart devices. New and established patients can schedule appointments with the same providers they see at Capital Health. The community is encouraged to maintain good health by scheduling appointments with their primary care and specialty physicians. Capital

A GRATEFUL COMMUNITY PARTNER Capital Health continues to be grateful for the wonderful community support it has experienced during the pandemic, having received generous donations for its front-line staff including PPE, hand sanitizer and other necessary supplies.

If you or your loved ones are experiencing a medical emergency, the patient care teams at Capital Health urge you to seek care immediately at their hospitals as they have safety procedures in place to protect you from infection. They look forward to seeing you and your family again at Capital Health. Health Headlines by Capital Health | Robbinsville Advance7

UNDERSTANDING BRAIN TUMOR SYMPTOMS signs to guide you to the right plan for care Brain tumors, while relatively rare, do not discriminate, affecting men, women, and children across all age groups and ethnicities. And because the brain is the critical organ that controls all others, it’s important to recognize the signs that may suggest a brain tumor and discuss them with your health care team. “The many parts of the brain control different body functions, so symptoms will vary depending on tumor location, type, and size,” said DR. NAVID REDJAL, director of Neurosurgical Oncology at the Capital Health Center for Neuro-Oncology. “However, there are some common symptoms to watch for which, if ongoing, may indicate the presence of a brain tumor. Anyone experiencing one or more of them over an extended period of time should see their doctor to get an accurate diagnosis.” “At the Center for Neuro-Oncology, our advanced technological resources and multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment are just as important as the compassionate and individualized care we provide,” said Dr. Redjal. “If a person experiences new symptoms or changes to existing ones, talking to your doctor is an important first step.” The Center for Neuro-Oncology, part of Capital Institute for Neurosciences and Capital Health Cancer Center, is a referral center for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer involving the brain and spine. The Center is housed in state-of-the-art facilities where patients have access to an experienced and caring team of physicians, nurses and staff who work closely with referring physicians to facilitate rapid and thorough evaluations and

COMMON BRAIN TUMOR SYMPTOMS INCLUDE: HEADACHES: A persistent, progressive pain that is different from a migraine, does not respond to over-the-counter pain medication (like aspirin or ibuprofen), gets worse when laying down, and may be accompanied by vomiting or changes in vision. SEIZURES: In some cases, a seizure may be the first indication that a person has a brain tumor. FOCAL PROGRESSIVE SYMPTOMS: Localized symptoms— such as hearing problems, difficulty walking or speaking, or feeling clumsy—can often help identify the location of the tumor. MASS EFFECT: Occurs when a brain tumor presses on surrounding normal tissue, causing nausea and vomiting, drowsiness, vision problems, headaches, and behavior changes. SUDDEN PERSONALITY CHANGES/COGNITIVE CHANGES/ MEMORY LOSS: A tumor may cause disruptions in normal brain function that lead to changes in a patient’s behavior and ability to reason, remember, and learn. recommendations for patients and their families. In addition to providing advanced, neuro-oncologic and neuroscience care, the Center participates in clinical trials to help fight and find cures for cancer. To learn more about Capital Health’s Center for Neuro-Oncology, visit capitalneuro.org.

Nationally Recognized Trauma Center Ready to Help Treat Severe Injuries While the number of cars on the road has decreased with stay-at-home orders, severe injuries can still take place in and around homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. The experts at the Bristol Myers Squibb Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center would like to remind everyone that safety measures are in place to protect you from infection if you need immediate, lifesaving care for a severe injury. “Our trauma center has been certified eight times as a Level II Trauma Center by the Committee on Trauma of the American College of Surgeons [ACS]. This means that when residents of our community need us most, we are ready to meet the highest quality standards for safely treating severe injuries,” said DR. DOMINICK EBOLI, director of the Bristol Myers Squibb Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center. The Full Spectrum of Care According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, injury is the third leading cause of death in the United States. Care provided in a trauma center decreases the chance of death following injury by 25 percent compared to care in general hospitals.

8Robbinsville Advance | Health Headlines by Capital Health

In addition to providing the necessary resources for trauma care, ACS level II verification also means that centers like the Bristol Myers Squibb Trauma Center address the needs of injured patients across the entire spectrum of care, providing patients at Capital Health Regional Medical Center with access to important injury prevention programs, pre-hospital care and transportation, acute hospital care, rehabilitation, and research. “Through programs and resources not available in most general hospitals—including 24-hour immediate access to trauma surgeons and other specialists—we are able to provide comprehensive care for severe injuries. The key is to call 911 as soon as the injury occurs so that we can treat the injury as soon as possible,” said DR. DENNIS QUINLAN, associate medical director of the Bristol Myers Squibb Trauma Center. To learn more about the Bristol Myers Squibb Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center, visit capitalhealth.org/trauma.

DON’T DELAY: Call 911 If You Suspect a Stroke While the fear of contracting COVID-19 has encouraged compliance with stay-at-home orders and social distancing, front-line employees at Capital Health and across the country are seeing an alarming trend of people hesitating to call 911 and delay necessary treatment for time-sensitive emergencies like stroke. “When it comes to treating stroke, we always say ‘time is brain,’ which means that the sooner we can treat you, the better chance we have at a successful outcome,” said DR. CHRISTIAN SCHUMACHER, medical director of the Capital Health Stroke Program and a board certified stroke neurologist at Capital Health. “At Capital Health, we have safety procedures in place to protect you from infection, while making sure you get the immediate, lifesaving stroke care that you need.” The Stroke and Cerebrovascular Center at the Capital Institute for Neurosciences is a major referral center for the treatment of all types of neurovascular diseases, including cerebral aneurysms, strokes, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs), cavernous malformations, carotid artery and vertebral artery atherosclerotic disease, intracranial stenosis as well as Moyamoya disease. The only Joint Commission certified Advanced Comprehensive Stroke Center in the region, located at Capital Health Regional Medical Center (RMC) in Trenton, continues to provide safe emergency stroke and neurovascular services 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week during the current health crisis. “As soon as you call 911, our prehospital alert system allows our team in the hospital to prepare for your arrival, saving valuable time to treatment,” said Dr. Schumacher. “Your call could also activate our Mobile Stroke Unit, which can be co-dispatched with basic and advanced life support service to provide safe, immediate care at your location before you even arrive at the hospital.” CONTROLLABLE RISK FACTORS FOR STROKE There are steps you can take right away to lower your risk. Get started by talking to your primary care doctor to learn about stroke screenings and how you can treat or manage controllable risk factors such as:

… High blood pressure … High cholesterol … Heart/blood vessel disease … Cigarette smoking

… Physical inactivity/ obesity/poor diet … Diabetes mellitus

IF YOU SUSPECT A STROKE,

B-E F-A-S-T B

— Balance

— Eyes

— Face Drooping

— Arm Weakness

— Speech Difficulty

— Time to call 911

Is the person experiencing a sudden loss of balance? Has the person lost vision in one or both eyes?

Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person’s smile uneven? Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like “The sky is blue.” Is the sentence repeated correctly? If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 911 immediately. Check the time so you’ll know when the first symptoms appeared.

… Atrial fibrillation … Sickle cell disease

Visit capitalneuro.org to learn more. IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS EXPERIENCING SIGNS OF A STROKE, CALL 911.

Health Headlines by Capital Health | Robbinsville Advance9

HELPING THE HOMELESS DURING COVID-19 Capital Health Joins Local Agencies to Support Underserved Population

New Jersey is among the states hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, and as one of the most densely populated states in the nation, urban areas like the City of Trenton are at increased risk of becoming hots spots for the disease. To address the needs of all people in this community and help slow the spread of coronavirus, Capital Health is collaborating with the City of Trenton, the Mercer County Human Services Department, the Mercer County Board of Social Services, the Trenton Health Team (THT), and other community partners to implement a multifaceted response. “For residents, stay-at-home orders and testing are important lines of defense against the spread of COVID-19, but for the city’s homeless population they are virtually impossible,” said Dr. Eric Schwartz, executive director of Capital Health’s Institute for Urban Care. “To help provide Trenton’s homeless with safe options for protecting themselves and the community against the spread of COVID-19, Capital Health is proud to join with the City of Trenton, Mercer County, and all of our partners on the Trenton Health Team in several important initiatives.” Because the virus can be spread by infected people whether or not they are showing symptoms, testing is an important tool for understanding how and where health care organizations direct their efforts. In Mercer County, Capital Health joined with the county’s Division of Public Health, the City of Trenton, and other health care organizations in the region to organize a drive-through COVID-19 testing center. The center is open by appointment only to Mercer County residents age 18 or older who have an order for testing from their primary health care provider. “Drive-through testing is an important service for Mercer County residents, but for the city’s homeless population and those without

transportation who have COVID-19 symptoms, a drive-through site is simply not an option,” said Dr. Schwartz. “To address the needs of this underserved population, Capital Health works with community partners to make walk-up test sites available in each Trenton ward one day a week.” For most people who test positive for COVID-19, sheltering in place is a common recommendation, but for those who are homeless, self-isolation is virtually impossible. Capital Health worked with its partner agencies and the City of Trenton to help establish an emergency shelter to provide homeless people with a safe space for recovery while not putting others in the community at risk. Other initiatives to provide support for the Trenton homeless during the COVID-19 pandemic include the coordination of food pantries and meal programs through local churches and community organizations and working with local pharmacies to ensure access to their services. To learn more about Capital Health Institute for Urban Care and its work in the City of Trenton, visit capitalhealth.org/urbancare. For more information about Mercer County resources during the COVID-19 pandemic, visit mercercounty.org/covid-19.

VIDEO VISITS FOR PRIMARY CARE AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH NOW AVAILABLE Now more than ever, your primary care provider should be your first point of contact if you’re not feeling well. To safely and conveniently provide you with the most appropriate care, Capital Health Medical Group offers video visits with the same great doctors, nurse practitioners and physician assistants that patients see in our Primary Care Network locations throughout the region. Available to current and new patients, these appointments are now covered by insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid, and in many cases co-pays will not be charged. If you are a patient at one of our primary care offices, call your office to schedule your video visit. If you are a new patient, call 1.844.343.2464. The incredible physical toll of the COVID-19 pandemic on both patients and health care workers is unmistakable, but the crisis is also having a significant impact on the population as a whole that is sometimes less obvious. With more people experiencing feelings of helplessness, loss, and loneliness during the current health crisis, Capital Health – Behavioral Health Specialists offers video visit appointments to help current and new patients process and navigate these challenging times. 10Robbinsville Advance | Health Headlines by Capital Health

Out of an abundance of caution for patients and providers, Capital Health – Behavioral Health Specialists has temporarily switched to video visits only, with limited group support options available as well. Video visits for behavioral health are now covered by most major insurances, including Medicare, and in many cases co-pays will not be charged. Referrals from primary care providers are not required. To schedule a video visit appointment with one of the providers at Capital Health – Behavioral Health Specialists, call 609.689.5725 or visit capitalhealth.org/behavioralhealth for more information.

ROBBINSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL CONGRATULATES THE CLASS OF 2020

Saisha Ahluwalia Uzair Ahmed Julia Aimers Brynn Alban Kyle Andersen Sarah Anderson Christopher Au Jack Barker Alyssa Basch Madelaine Benowitz Emma Berman Micaela Bernard Karina Bharatiya Sonia Bharatiya Jack Billings Nicole Block Jynelle Graciela Boac Katelyn Bohall Jennifer Booth Tyler Bork Mia Brades Laura Bradley Tess Branigan Michael Burton Keighly Butler Nicholas Carella Alexandra Carl Isla Carman Jennifer Carroll Jordan Carroll Giovanna Carrubba Alyssa Caruso Emilio Cavalli Jack Cavanaugh-Gialloreto James Cavanaugh-Gialloreto Jade Chau Abhinav Chauhan Brett Christiansen Natalie Ciarricco Christian Coffield Matthew Cooper Maria Cox David Cruz Mateo Cruz Ashleigh D’Cruz Mykala Davison Steven DeBenedetto Joelle DelPrete

Jennifer DelRosario Samantha DeMartino Karly Diel Tyler DiNinno Zyira Dixon Danielle Dobrowolski Daniela Dominguez Abigail Dorwart Pranav Doshi Julia Dottino Adriana Dranoff Emma Dziedzic Kelley Fernandes Connor Fitzsimmons Alex Fleischner Nicholas Foley Emily Freeman Devon Fruscione Sabrina Gaaied John Gallagher Mario Gamler Julianna Gazzillo Matthew Giordano Zachary Glassband Juan Gomez-Garcia Hammad Gondal Marcus Gonzales Keya Goswami Rohith Gowrisankar Gurveer Grewal Aanya Gupta Brianna Haggerty Dayyan Hamid Colby Harris Zachary Harris MatthewHegel Darren Henderson Sydney Herman Matthew Heverin Kaitlyn Hillman Rachel Horan Thomas Horowitz Michelle Huscha Shreya Jagadeesh Hamdi Jemal Allana John Kiara Johnson Maya Johnson

Mathew Joseph Bhumika Joshi Kirti Joshi Victoria Karkut Samantha Keating Abby Kelvy Ayra Khan Hamza Khan Princess Pelena Kinch Skyler Kolbe Hannah Korbman Joseph Koslowski Zane Koutras Courtney Kovacs Logan Kuhn Arrshia Kumar Shishir Kumar Harrison LaCaze Jonathan Lachman Ava Lake Carly Landow Nicholas Lawrence Isaiah Lederman Luna Lee Shannon Leibowitz Nathan Leonard Amanda Lichtenstein Daniel Light Michael Lim Robert Lotito Viveka Madhan Shane Maher Patrick Malabunga Haadi Malik Matteo Mancini Michael Manners Geethika Manojkumar Daniel Marincas Maddison Martini Aashmi Mathew Colin McCunney Keely McEntee Constance Mehl Pranav Menon Tyler Mercantini Dominick Mirando Gina Mollica Derek Monteiro

Sierra Moore Hunter Mosley Keith Motusesky Samuel Mount Lily Muir Cathryn Murray Joseph Myers Christopher Mysholowsky Rohit Nair Andrew Neumann Kevin Nodine Teresa O’Neill Anthi Panagiotidis Julia Pancari Jaii Pappu Spandan Parikh VindhyaPasala Shriya Patel Tirth Patel Brandon Patterson Dhruv Peechara Joseph Penzone Justin Penzone Marieli Perez Ethan Potter Aditi Priolkar Michael Radosti Francesca Ragusa Aarthi Ramakrishnan Aniketh Ramanujam Julia Reagan Anudeep Reddy Heath Matthew Reyes Heidi Riad Timothy Riley Andrew Rispoli Alexander Rossi Emilia Rossidivito Julia Sabol Megan Sadock Ashley Sasaki Sarah Scatena Ally Schatz Eric Schreier Alyssa Sepcic Dylan Shah Jake Shapanus Tavishi Sharma

Hannah Shea Joseph Shennard Gabriel Silva Ryan Siminske Daniel Sonnenfeld Sanjna Sood Samuel Soriano Michael Stamboulian Heather Stauffacher Lauren Stefanelli Ryan Stenger Iynajaah Stevenson Alyssa Stone Nicholas Strobino Aneesh Sudarshan Brinda Suresh Daniel Surtz Sannah Sze Gerard Takwa Jesse Taylor Joseph Thottathil Brian Tierney Erik Tomasko Colin Tonry Brooke Torrington Joseph Toscano Aileen Valerio Jeremy VanDuren Noel Varughese Ashley Veisz Jeremy Wadsworth Michael Weintraub Ethan Weiss Lily West Rhiya Xavier Bryan Yamsuan Brandon Yoo Brianna Young Elizabeth Young Kaitlyn Young Kyle Yuncza Nicholas Zangrilli

June 2020 | Robbinsville Advance11

roBBInSVIlle’S eXCeptIonal SenIorS Emma Berman

Nicole Block

Matthew Cooper

Zachary Glassband Aanya Gupta

Brown University

United States Air Force Academy

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Duke University

Mathematics Career plans: Something quantitative that involves math

Mechanical engineering

Mathematics

Career plans: Development engineer

Career plans: Medicine

RHS activities: Dance team, Friends of Rachel, World Language Honor Society, National Honor Society, Jewish American Heritage Club

RHS activities: Robotics, track and field, Technology Student Association, World Language Honor Society, National Honor Society

Career plans: Mathematician and entrpreneuer

How do you feel about the way your How do you feel about the way your senior year turned out? This has been a very interesting experience senior year turned out? During the using technology to continue isolation period, all of the RHS school from home. It is sad that teachers have worked really hard this happened during the end of to ensure their students continue our senior year. We are missing learning, and are prepared for out on many of the senior year their AP exams. I miss attending experiences, such as prom and a school, but safety and health traditional graduation, and won’t be come first. Unfortunately, some senior events have been cancelled, able to say goodbye to our teachers and classmates in person. but I am so grateful we were still able to go to Disney. Favorite quote: “We’ve all got both light and dark inside us. What Favorite quote: “If you want to achieve greatness, stop asking for matters is the part we choose to act on.” –Sirius Black permission.”

RHS activities: Football, lacrosse, ski club, National Honor Society How do you feel about the way your senior year turned out? During the coronavirus isolation period, I have done my best to remain as positive as possible. I am sad to not be experiencing the many fun things I am missing out on, like my senior lacrosse season. On the bright side, I have been able to spend more time with my family which is nice, and my friends and I still make time to talk online. Favorite quote: “Be something you love and understand.” –Lynyrd Skynyrd

Chemistry RHS activities: Tennis, executive council, environmental club How do you feel about the way your senior year turned out? It can certainly be tough to remain optimistic in light of the struggles the world has faced these last few months. I feel lucky however to be able to finish my education online thanks to my creative and supportive teachers. Mostly, I miss going out to lunch with my friends every Friday (shoutout the “Try Hardz”). Although this is not the ending I expected, I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the senior year that I had. Thank you to everyone who has been with me the whole way, I will miss it tremendously.

Carnegie Mellon Univeristy Statistics and data science Career plans: Data scientist RHS activities: Science Olympiad, Math League, peer tutoring, World Language Honor Society, National Honor Society How do you feel about the way your senior year turned out? I think that it is very unfortunate that the coronavirus isolation period happened during our senior year however I have tried to make the most of it by finding new hobbies and spending time with family. Favorite quote: “Could be worse. Not sure how, but it could be.” –Eeyore

Favorite quote: “Screws fall out all the time; the world’s an imperfect place.” –The Breakfast Club

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Maya Johnson

Gina Mollica

Vindhya Pasala

Hannah Shea

Noel Varughese

Johns Hopkins University

North Carolina State University Honors Program

Georgia Institute of Technology

University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

Georgia Tech

Biology

Career plans: Undecided

Neuroscience and international studies

Biomedical engineering

Career plans: Neurosurgeon, specializing in oncology

Career plans: Prosthetic construction and analysis

RHS activities: Student government, varsity basketball, March of Dimes, National Honor Society, tutoring

RHS activities: Student council, soccer, softball, ONE Project, Play Unified

Computer science Career plans: Undecided RHS activities: Tennis, World Language Honor Society, National Honor Society, Math League, multicultural club, Amnesty International club, Model UN

uoy evoL

How do you feel about the way your How do you feel about the way your senior year turned out? Adjusting to remote learning has posed slight senior year turned out? For the challenges. However, I greatly most part my school experiences have been fine. As to be expected miss interacting with students it is strange to have class at home, and teachers each day. Although missing out on social events however completely the work has been manageable. I am upset that such as graduation and prom is our senior year ended abruptly, but disappointing, I have enjoyed spending time with my family and during this time I’ve had time to beating my sister in Wii Play. reflect and get back into shape. Favorite quote: “That’s life, you Favorite quote: “Find a group of know. We never end up where people who challenge and inspire you thought you wanted to be.” you; spend a lot of time with –Marshall Eriksen them, and it will change your life.” –Amy Poehler

How do you feel about the way your senior year turned out? It was heartbreaking to learn the news that our school year would be cut short due to the coronavirus. It is upsetting that we lost the opportunity to attend and engage in the events that we imagined ourselves in the places of the seniors in years past, but it is crucial to stay positive in times like these. I have come to realize that the high school experience is truly a gift to cherish and I am happy that the memories I made at RHS were amazing. Favorite quote: “Happiness is not something that you have to achieve. You can still feel happy during the process of achieving something.”

Career plans: Medicine RHS activities: Field hockey, lacrosse, World Language Honor Society, National Honor Society, Leadership Corps, ski club How do you feel about the way your senior year turned out? In addition to focusing on online school, I have been trying to get outside and continue to enjoy my senior year. Having this happen during our senior year has been very unfortunate and devastating for most of us seniors. After looking forward to activities like our senior BBQ, prom, and especially graduation for several years, without them it feels like a disappointing end to so many years of hard work and memories at RHS.

Industrial engineering RHS activities: FIRST Robotics, tennis, Model UN, World Language Honor Society, National Honor Society How do you feel about the way your senior year turned out? I never expected I’d be spending the last few months of my senior year at home. Although I’m disappointed to miss out on many senior privileges, I am grateful for all the friendships and memories I’ve made while at Robbinsville, and look forward to seeing my classmates again. Favorite quote: “I wish there was a way to know you were in the good old days before you’ve actually left them.” –Andy Bernard

Favorite quote: “We don’t make mistakes, we have happy accidents.” –Bob Ross

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June 2020 | Robbinsville Advance13

Township-owned Windsor School demolished BY NICOLE VIVIANO

Robbinsville Township demolished a historic school building last month in order to make room for a park and a housing subdivision. The 111-year-old Windsor School was knocked down in late April, a decision reached after township officials said they had extensive discussions on what to do with the township-owned property. Built in 1909, the school in the Village of Windsor has had generations of families pass through its doors. Located at 16 School Dr., the school sat on less than an acre of land. Next to the school building are fields used by Robbinsville Little League. The school has gone unused since 2014. Prior to then, the Robbinsville School District had been using the building to house some classes of elementary school students. Windsor School had held classes from grades K through 8 in its early years, and was home to industrial arts and home economics courses, as well as an occupations program for students. The school property was bought by Robbinsville Township in 2017 from the school district for $231,000. After the Robbinsville Board of Education conducted a thorough assessment for keeping and retrofitting the Windsor School in March 2016, the decision was made to sell the property. The cost of repair to meet ADA compliance and make repairs such as mold and asbestos remediation was found to be over $2 million. Instead of the property becoming fully developed, Mayor Dave Fried and the township council opted to purchase it.

“The township recognized there was no easy choice and understood the concerns of the Windsor community in their efforts to preserve the character of the area,” business administrator Joy Tozzi said. “The township recognized the loss this would be for the community, losing the green space and grounds that were currently being used as open space for the community to new homes.” Discussions about what the area could be used for have been going on for more than a year. With the mayor’s support, Tozzi and councilman Ronald Witt met with Windsor community members to understand what the locals would like to see happen with the property. The plan is to subdivide a small portion of the property to make back the initial cost, putting the majority of the open plot towards green space. “Early discussions include a butterfly/flower garden, a natural playground, which would incorporate nature and water elements, a picnic area with covering…a half court of basketball, a recreation field as well as beautification of trees and flowers,” Tozzi said. “Construction also would include incorporating bricks from the Windsor School as a nod to its rich history.” The demolition crew was able to preserve the school’s concrete sign reading “Washington Township Public School 1909.” Utilizing remnants of the school building is planned as part of the coming park. Before it was demolished, the township helped residents remove objects from the school, including two decorative iron heating grates, several stair railings and the school bell from the wall. Some residents came out to say

Crews tear down Windsor School in Robbinsville in late April 2020. (Photo courtesy of Robbinsville Township.) goodbye to the iconic building on the demolition day. Those who have been a part of the Windsor and Robbinsville communities for years hold many memories with the fallen school. Dennis Symons, a township resident of more than 50-years, went to see the Windsor School demolition when he saw word of it coming down on Facebook. Symons recalled attending industrial arts classes and home economics in the building during his sixth, seventh and eighth grade years. Welding, woodwork and a dark room for developing film were located on the first floor, while kitchens and an arts room for activities such as crafts and sewing were on the upper floor. In his time spent at Windsor School,

Symons enjoyed the occupations program, and got to develop his first roll of 110 mm and 135 mm film. Along with his locally based photography company, Dennis Symons Photography, Symons works part-time for Upper Freehold Township, publishes a website called MidJersey News and retired as captain from the Robbinsville Township Fire Department after serving for 30 years. It wasn’t just his own memories that were held in Windsor School. Symons’ mother had attended in the 1940s, when the school was home to kindergarten through eighth grade and didn’t have running water or an indoor toilet. Back when the area was mostly farmland, when the school needed desks, Symons’ grandmother helped to raise funds, while his grandfather lent a hand building the desks, Symons said in an account written for his website. Another town resident arrived at the demolition site at 7 a.m. and didn’t leave until around 3:30 p.m. Janice Ford has lived in Windsor for 60 years, and has always had a love of history and old buildings. She was sad to see one of the town’s historic buildings go but waited patiently on demolition day until the Washington Township sign was safely taken down. Ford attended Windsor School for a short time, as part of her first-grade year, before transferring to Sharon School. She hopes to see a monument using remnants from the school take shape. Since the demolition day, Ford has revisited the site almost every day to see what progress has been made. “It was just a special place,” she said.

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9 Good craps rolls 10 Antler point 11 Feedbag morsel 12 Finish, with “up” 13 Rocker Nugent 18 Most basic 21 Brass component 22 High note 23 Shut off 24 Reindeer 25 Pizza places 26 Boar 27 Accord 28 ___ available 29 Sow’s pen 31 Codeine source 34 Incite 35 Aspersions

38 39 40 42 44 45 47 48 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58

Savage Soup container Top-notch Born Give-and-take, orally Tiny village Coffee shop order Raccoon relative Neighbor of Sudan And so forth Zero Gobbled up Chinese tea Before, of yore Give the goahead Joke Compass pt.

Puzzle solution on Page 16

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HEALTH

Is it safe to go to the hospital?

hand sanitizer throughout our faciliDR. SETH ROSENBAUM ties; conducting COVID-19 testing for all surgical patients prior to their proASK THE DOCTOR cedures, as well as for all emergency department patients admitted to the Concerned about your health? hospital that meet criteria; and conExperts from Robert Wood Johnson Uni- tinued preparation and readiness for versity Hospital Hamilton are ready to potential future surges. What should I do if I need answer readers’ questions. Send your surger y? questions to askthedoc@rwjbh.org. Now that the peak of the COVID-19 Is it safe to go to the hospital? Yes, it is safe to go to the hospi- pandemic in New Jersey has passed, tal, though it’s understandable that we are moving forward in a thoughtpatients and their families may be ful and structured way to ensure that Introducing VINTAGE AT HAMILTON, a spectacular community of 122 luxury duplexesfearful of seeking medical care right those patients who require surgery receive the treatments they need, now. and townhomes in Hamilton Twp., MercerAT County…exclusively active adults 55+. Introducing VINTAGE HAMILTON, for a spectacular At Robert Wood Johnson Univer- safely. There is no need to delay surcommunity of 122 duplexes townhomes This is where you’ll savor life luxury to the fullest. All inand an area known for in its wealthsity Hospital Hamilton, a high reli- gery, particularly if it is time-sensiof cultural offerings, Twp., recreational opportunities, dining and shopping. At Vintageability organization, safety has always tive; discuss any concerns you have Hamilton Mercer County…exclusively for active at Hamilton, you’re centrally located—just 0.7 miles to I-195, 7 miles to the New Jerseycome first; it is embedded in every- with your physician. Rest assured, at adults 55+. Turnpike, and 5.3 miles to the Hamilton Train Station, with service on the Northeastthing we do. With the safety of our RWJUH Hamilton, we are here when patients and team members at the you need us. Corridor line to both New York City and Philadelphia. Can I visit the emergency forefront, and as a nine-time recipient This is where you’ll savor life to the fullest. All inofan122 area department for an emergency of the Leapfrog Group’s Safety Grade g VINTAGE AT HAMILTON, a spectacular community luxury duplexes Don’t miss your chance to own a fine Vintage! other than COVID-19? A, we are taking the appropriate preknown for its wealth of cultural off erings, recreational omes in Hamilton Twp., Mercer County…exclusively for active adults 55+. roducing VINTAGE AT floor HAMILTON, a spectacular community Absolutely. It is vitally important cautions and using best practices to • First owner’s suite with walk-in closetof 122 luxury duplexes opportunities, and shopping. At Vintage at adults 55+.continue to ensure the highest qual- that care should not be delayed for d townhomes in Hamilton dining Twp., Mercer County…exclusively for active 3the bedrooms, 2½ baths here you’ll savor you’re life to•centrally fullest. All in an0.7area known for its ity wealth care, protection, support and com- patients experiencing signs and sympHamilton, located—just miles to I-195, is is where you’ll savor life to the fullest. All in an area known for its wealth • Optional finished basement toms of a heart attack, stroke or other fort for our patients. l offerings, recreational opportunities, dining and shopping. At Vintage 7offerings, miles to the New Jersey Turnpike,dining and 5.3and miles to the At Vintage cultural recreational opportunities, shopping. RWJUH Hamilton Some of these measures include • 1-2 car n, you’re centrally located—just 0.7garage miles to I-195, 7 miles to the Newadherence Jersey to the governor’s executive emergencies. remains ready to safely provide care in Hamilton Train located—just Station, with0.7 service onI-195, the Northeast Hamilton, you’re centrally miles to 7 miles to the New Jersey • Clubhouse with pool with and 5.3and miles to the Hamilton Train Station, service onthethe Northeast orders and adherence to all national, our Emergency Department. ducing ATline HAMILTON, a spectacular community of 122 luxuryon duplexes rnpike,VINTAGE 5.3 miles toto theboth Hamilton Train City Station, service Northeast Corridor New York andwith Philadelphia. I put off some routine testing state and local public health guidance ownhomes in Hamilton Twp., Mercer County…exclusively for active adults 55+. ne to both CityCity andand Philadelphia. orridor line toNew both York New York Philadelphia. and regulatory policies; staff vigilance because of COVID-19. Should I * is where you’ll savor life to the fullest. All in an area known for its wealth regarding the appropriate use of per- schedule it now? Don’t miss youropportunities, chance todining ownanda shopping. fine Vintage! Yes. If you’ve put off any medical sonal protective equipment with all ultural offerings, recreational At Vintage patients; stringent cleaning and disin- care due to COVID-19, please don’t amilton, you’re centrally located—just 0.7 miles to I-195, 7 miles to the New Jersey owner’s suite withwalk-in walk-in closet • First• First floorfloor owner’s suite with closet fection in all rooms, including equip- delay it any longer. As a high reliabilpike, and 5.3 miles to the Hamilton Train Station, with service on the Northeast ment and surfaces, frequently and ity organization, we’ve taken every • 3 bedrooms, 2½ baths • 3City bedrooms, 2½ baths idor line to both New2275 York and Philadelphia. between patient (RWJUH Hamilton precaution and continue to provide Kuser Road, Hamilton, NJ 08690 • Optional finished basement also utilizes Tru-D ultraviolet disin- health care services. We will also Don’t chance own a fine Vintage! • your Optional basement Friday miss –Tuesday: 10am – finished 5pm,toClosed Wednesday and Thursday fecting technology for an added level initiate a resumption of services in • 1-2 car garage of disinfection); active screening of keeping with the governor’s execu• First floor owner’s suite with walk-in closet •• 1-2 car garage Clubhouse with pool team members, patients and visitors tive orders and adherence to all pubbedrooms, 2½ baths (when permitted) upon entering a lic health guidance and regulatory •• 3Clubhouse with pool Community News Service - Trenton/Lawrence/Robbinsville Crossword - 6/20 PuzzleJunction.com facility, for symptoms of COVID-19; policies. Learn more at rwjbh.org/ • Optional finished basement * welcomeback. requiring everyone who enters our The purpose of this advertisement is to solicit non-binding reservations. The non-binding reservation is not a contract and may be cancelled by the • 1-2 car prospective purchaser at any time, without cause. Any money paidgarage to the developer shall be refunded to the prospective * purchaser upon request facility to wear a mask or face cover- Dr. Seth Rosenbaum, board certiand cancellation of the non-binding reservation. The actual salesprice for each specific Duplex or Townhome will be based upon a number of factors including, but not limited to, the location and dimensions of the Duplex or Townhome, and the specific choices made by each prospective purchaser for interior • Clubhouse with pool ing; continued restriction of visitors; fied in infectious disease, is Senior Vice finishes. *Pre-construction pricing means that prices are likely to increase once construction of the project commences. social and physical distancing mea- President, Chief Medical Officer, Rob©2019 Sharbell Development Corp. Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. sures for all people in our facilities; ert Wood Johnson University Hospital * strict hand hygiene Solution and availability of Hamilton.

Pre-Construction Pricing Don’t miss your chance to own a fine Vintage! from the Upper $300’s

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Pre-Construction Pricing from the UpperPricing $300’s Pre-Construction

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45_VintageHamilton_7.indd 1

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11/20/19 3:32 PM

2275 10am Kuser–Road, Hamilton, NJ 08690 Friday –Tuesday: 5pm, Closed Wednesday and Thursday

Friday –Tuesday: 11am NJ – 5pm, 2275 Kuser Road, Hamilton, 08690 609-900-3130 Closed Wednesday and Th ursday day –Tuesday: 10am 5pm,Hamilton, Closed NJ Wednesday and Thursday 2275 Kuser–Road, 08690

T A W S S L A P P A R A M E Friday –Tuesday: 10am – 5pm, Closed Wednesday and Thursday E S C O R The purpose of this advertisement is to solicit non-binding reservations. The non-binding reservation is not a contract and may be cancelled by the L E A V E prospective purchaser at any time, without cause. Any money paid to the developer shall be refunded to the prospective purchaser upon request d cancellation of the non-binding reservation. The actual salesprice for each specific Duplex or Townhome will be based upon a number of factors including, A C R E S but not limited to, the location and dimensions of the Duplex or Townhome, and the specific choices made by each prospective purchaser for interior finishes. *Pre-construction pricing means that prices are likely to increase once construction of the project commences. L I N T ©2019 Sharbell Development Corp. Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. of this advertisement to solicit non-binding reservations. The The non-binding reservation is not a contract may be cancelled by the eheofpurpose this advertisement is to issolicit non-binding reservations. non-binding reservation is notand a contract and may be cancelled by theC U B S at anypurpose time, without Any money money paid to the developer shall beshall refunded toreservations. the prospective upon purchaser request eprospective purchaserpurchaser at any The time, without cause. paid to the developer be refunded to thepurchaser prospective upon request ofcause. this Any advertisement is to solicit non-binding The non-binding ncellation of the non-binding reservation. The actual salesprice for each specific Duplex or Townhome will be based upon a number of factors including, A D O B non-binding reservation. salesprice for each specific Duplex ormade Townhome will be based number of factors including, reservation isThe notactual aof contract and may beandcancelled by the prospective purchaser atupon any utf the not limited to, the location and dimensions the Duplex or Townhome, the specific choices by each prospective purchaser foratime, interior VintageHamilton_7.indd 1 11/20/19 3:32 d to, the location and dimensions ofmoney the Duplex ortoTownhome, and the specific choices made each prospective purchaser for interior finishes. *Pre-construction pricing means that prices are likely to increase once construction of the commences. without cause. Any paid the developer shall be refunded toproject theby prospective purchaser N PM E U M A ©2019 Sharbell Development Corp. Equalare Opportunity Equal Housing Opportunity.of the project commences. finishes. *Pre-construction pricing means that prices likely toCompany. increase once construction upon request and cancellation of the non-binding reservation. The actual salesprice for each O N ©2019 Sharbell Development Corp. Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. specific Duplex or Townhome will be based upon a number of factors including, but not limited E N A C T to, the location and dimensions the Duplex or Townhome, and the specific choices made by each prospective purchaser for interior finishes. *Pre-construction pricing means that prices are11/20/19 likely to 3:32 PM ageHamilton_7.indd 1 T I T H E increase once construction of the project commences. C L3:32EPMA R ton_7.indd 1©2019 Sharbell development Corp. Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. 11/20/19

16  Robbinsville Advance | June 2020

A B O R T S

F A U N S

E G A G O O N N E C H A

A R N E N T E Z S I O W N P I C I N U E M H C A C O M H A L A T E D I T

S E V E N S B R U T A L

P R O N G S L U R S

O U T A S E T E D E N T E N T E

R E A D I L Y

S T Y N E E

E N G E R O A N E D G E

Puzzle Solution Puzzle is on Page 15

Anatomy of a tough decision DAVE FRIED MAYOR’S COLUMN

bridge the gap by raising rates. We are equally committed to running the sewer utility in a responsible manner that accommodates the needs of both townships fairly. For Robbinsville, it would be just our second sewer rate hike since 1990 (2011). The increase to our households will be $85 per year beginning with the Oct. 1, 2020 billing. Robbinsville and Hamilton, which has not raised its rates since 2008, still have two of the lowest sewer rates in all of Mercer County. In an April 2018 wastewater utility financial survey conducted by the Hamilton Township Water Pollution Control, the total annual cost of a residential family of four in neighboring municipalities in Mercer and Burlington Counties ranged between $600-900. Even with the increase, Robbinsville would come in at $425, with Hamilton at $390. Perhaps Mayor Martin said it best. “We have a plant that is very well run and could not survive any longer at its current rates without jeopardizing its operations. Hamilton has seen what happens when a township neglects a utility and I cannot permit that to happen here.” Sometimes we have to make tough decisions. This was one of them. But the fact that our towns are working together to solve important issues bodes very well for all of our residents.

As we move closer and closer to reopening in what is certainly a whole new world, I just want to once again thank everyone for doing their part to flatten the curve of COVID-19. There was no playbook for this. With 74 of our 99 positive cases cleared from isolation in a Township of almost 14,500, we have done our part. Most sadly, we have lost six of our beloved residents aged 59-97 to the pandemic… and we will miss them terribly. As we have been doing since closing the doors of the municipal building to the public March 16, our staff has continued to work diligently on township business. One of the first orders of business was getting the wastewater treatment situation with Hamilton Township figured out. That work includes repairing the considerable damage done to both the sewer utility and relations between the two towns by the previous administration in Hamilton. The last thing we ever wanted to do was raise rates in a pandemic. But the reality is the sewer system shared by Hamilton and Robbinsville needs considerable work, and until a shared rate study is completed Mayor Jeff Martin and I—with the approval of our respec- Dave Fried is the mayor of Robbinsville tive township councils—needed to Township.

ENCORE! ENCORE! WEEKEND REWIND

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June 2020 | Robbinsville Advance17

Spring Sale going on now stop in for great deals!

An open letter of gratitude KATHIE FOSTER FROM THE SCHOOLS

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public notice Hackensack Meridian Health As we continue to refine our Convenient Care network, we (Hackensack Meridian Health) have closed our affiliated RediClinic locations inside select Rite Aids. To receive a complete copy of your RediClinic medical records; or to have a copy of your RediClinic medical records sent to a health practitioner of your choice, please visit rediclinic.com/faqs/patient-medical-records to access a “Medical Request Form,” completely fill out the form, and send either of the following ways: (a) To the address listed on the form; or (b) To ensure a faster delivery, please fax the Medical Request Form to 1-866-279-9592. For any additional questions, please contact RediClinic at 1-833-423-7334, option 6.

18  Robbinsville Advance | June 2020

Dear Friends and Community Members, Who could have predicted more than 30 years ago that I would fall so deeply in love with a wonderful, compassionate, strong little community located in the heart of central New Jersey? Robbinsville is a place where neighbors support one another, celebrate one another’s successes and commit to the greater good. As I anticipate my upcoming retirement, it is important for me to share my immense gratitude for the legions of people who have mentored, guided, challenged, and encouraged me along the way. It has been a true privilege and joy to serve alongside you as we have built an educational environment in which the students of Robbinsville are able to reach their highest potential. For those that may not know, I was hired as a basic skills teacher in 1986 and over the next 17 years taught in various grade levels and content areas before moving into administration in 2001. Each role came with unique challenges and opportunities to stretch, grow, learn, and contribute to this special community. So, to all of you, I humbly say thank you. To our incredible and hardworking staff: Please accept my deep gratitude for your strength, love, and support. You are an inspiration! Each of you has made a steadfast commitment to providing the best for our students, whether through learning opportunities in and out of the classroom; caring for students’ physical and social-emotional health; building our technology infrastructure; taking pride in cleaning and repairing our buildings; safely transporting students to and from school each day; lovingly preparing and serving lunches for our students; serving on the frontline in the main offices or behind the scenes in the central office. No matter what role or department, each member of our community understands that love becomes visible through our sacred work. Thank you to each member of the administrative team. I can wholeheartedly attest to the benefits of surrounding yourself with people who are smarter than you. Over the years we have encouraged one another to take risks and to step beyond our comfort zone. Helping each other elevate our professional judgment and practice

has allowed us to bring our best selves to the table and because the team is so smart, each member clearly understands the value of kindness and generosity. It is your humor, grace, and heart, that makes the district a better place! I would be remiss if I didn’t take a moment to mention my dear friend Steve Mayer, with whom I worked for seven joyful years. Steve personified the meaning of the term servant leader. He laid the path for all of us and helped us discover a well of strength and love within each of us. I will continue to carry his memory with me in the days ahead as I forge my own new path. Thank you to past and present members of the Robbinsville Board of Education. Many of you know that our board has a long-standing reputation for putting the district and our students first. Based on experience, I can tell you that each of our board members devotes countless hours each week to volunteer service. Our current members stand upon the shoulders of many before them whose service and selfless contributions led to new building facilities, new streams of sustainable revenue, cohesive curriculum, and improved systems designed to strengthen the organization. Thank you for bringing your passion, intellect, insight, and resources to the table. Thank you for always putting kids first! I am grateful for the many parents and families with whom I have developed so many long lasting friendships over the years. We have rejoiced with one another when times have called for celebration and have held each other up when tragedy has struck. Know that I will appreciate and remember you always. Over the years the district has developed a healthy partnership with the township to ensure that our students and families have access to the best services. Thank you to Mayor Dave Fried, his administrative team, and town council whose commitment to a sustainable community has challenged us to be creative and vigilant in our approach to resources for sustaining our schools. Most recently, we partnered with the Robbinsville Hydroponic Farm to assist our families during the COVID-19 outbreak. I can’t say enough about our phenomenal SROs as well as other members of the police force and fire department. Because you have been woven into the fabric of our school community and have established strong and positive relationships with students, they know they can count on you should the need arise. Thank you!

Robbinsville is a place where neighbors support one another and celebrate one another’s successes.

Finally, thank you, thank you, thank you to our wonderful students both past and present! Thirty-plus years ago it never crossed my mind that there would come a day when I would be in a position to hire some of the same students I had the privilege of teaching. I am beyond delighted that a new generation of stellar teachers like Marissa Dilts Rosol, Brian Williams and MJ Seiler Matthews have returned to Robbinsville to impact young lives. Thanks to the amazing students who have graced our classrooms, I am confident our world is a better place. How do I know? One graduate has become a brilliant business woman who now runs an essential day care establishment where my dog Henry eagerly attends. I am the truly grateful client of another graduate who uses art and science and her own unique brand of magic to color and style my hair. Another R’ville student is my dentist...and if that is not true trust, I don’t know what is! As we increase our cohorts of graduates, I will continue to follow and support you as you follow your dreams and change the world in the years to come. As I reflect upon my decades in the teaching profession, I return time and again to the notion that everything we do as educators begins as an act of love. As we develop deep and abiding relationships with our students, their parents and with each other, we hope to inspire the young minds in our charge to love learning, develop trust in the world around them, and feel safe in the knowledge that life is always changing, ever unfolding.

Now, I must admit, I am sentimental and a bit apprehensive as I imagine what the future has in store for me, but as author/ poet Sage Cohen writes, “When gratitude is the ground on which we stand, we can be satisfied with life exactly as it is and relax into the unknown.” These are wise words indeed. Beginning on July 1, I just may follow the lead of many graduates and take a gap year to give myself time to recompose and reinvent myself. One writer describes this time as becoming mulch. Mulch’s one main responsibility is to cover the surface of the soil. This quiet and dormant decomposition process enriches the soil’s fertility. For me, becoming mulch may mean slowing down, looking around, remaining open, and allowing the universe to lead me to what is next. In between spending time with my new grandson Rowan, reconnecting with nature, reading, and taking naps, I will be cheering for all of you as you continue to ensure that our students are thriving and flourishing under the passionate and visionary leadership of incoming Superintendent Brian Betze. This has been a joyful and profound journey dear friends and, as my time in Robbinsville draws to a close and I begin to relax into the unknown, I hope you will join me in cherishing the magnificence of each moment as it unfolds before us. Thank you and God bless.

Dharam Mann, MD

Manjula Singh, MD

RISTORANTE

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Kathie Foster is the superintendent of Robbinsville Schools.

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Samir Jani, MD,MPH

Chronic Pain Relief

Sarah Choxi, MD

Spinal Cord Stimulation for Chronic Pain The use of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) to treat chronic pain has increased dramatically in the past decade with the development of new and exciting technologies. A spinal cord stimulator is like a pacemaker for the spine; it helps stop pain signals before they ever reach the brain which means you feel less or no pain. Background Spinal cord stimulation has been around for over 30 years. It is our best tool to prevent and reduce a patient’s pain without having to take daily medications. The patient is given a temporary test drive of the system to see if it helps control pain. Overall, the device is safe, effective, and completely under the patient’s control. You can turn it on, off, or adjust the energy to pinpoint your pain. Advancements There have been several advancements in the field. Almost all stimulators are MRI compatible. There are systems that do not require daily charging of the battery and can lasts years. The devices offer various modes - some replace pain with a pleasant tingling while others use high energy to stop pain signals. This allows patients to drive, sleep, swim, etc with the device on. Stimulators are getting smaller and smaller as battery technology improves. Lastly, the whole system is complete reversible and removable if needed. Spinal cord stimulation is a powerful tool to treat chronic pain from a variety of conditions. If you have tried simple injections without relief, spinal cord stimulation maybe right for you. Please call Garden State Medical Center to schedule an appointment for your consult now! We have a new office now open in Hamilton, NJ.

DON’T ACCEPT PAIN. LET US HELP! Call Today: 732-202-3000 June 2020 | Robbinsville Advance19

smires & associates would like to welcome our new agents

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BORDENTOWN

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ROBBINSVILLE

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ALLENTOWN

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HAMILTON SQ.

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ROBBINSVILLE

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PRINCETON JCT. $659,000

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EWING

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Beautiful 3 bed, 1.5 bath modern rancher. Featuring; hardwood floors, upgraded kitchen with stainless steel appliances & skylight. Remodeled bathrooms, Full basement, Fully fenced in yard energy-efficient along with a smart thermostat.

HAMILTON $449,900

Richard A Conti, SA

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HAMILTON

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Beautiful expanded cape completely redone from top to bottom! 3 beds, 2 full baths, kitchen with center island and granite countertops. New roof, New siding, Off street, fenced in parking, and a multi tier deck round out this excellent home!

Frank Mancino Regional President | Mortgage Advisor Frank Vice Mancino NMLS-133472 Regional Vice President | Mortgage Advisor

o: (609) 689-8436 NMLS-133472 fmancino@financeofamerica.com o: (609) 689-8436 FOAmortgage.com/fmancino fmancino@financeofamerica.com FOAmortgage.com/fmancino

FOAmortgage.com/fmancino

©20203685 Finance of America Mortgage LLC|isHamilton, licensed nationwide | | NMLS ID #1071 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) | 300 Welsh Road, Building 5, Horsham, PA 19044FOAmortgage.com/fmancino | (800) 355-5626 | AZ Mortgage Banker Quakerbridge Road NJ 08619 License #0910184 | Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act | Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee #15499 | Kansas Licensed Mortgage Company ©2020 Finance America Mortgage LLC is licensed nationwide | | Mortgage NMLS ID #1071 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) | 300 Welsh Road, Building 5,|Horsham, PA 19044 | (800) 355-5626 AZ Mortgage Banker | Licensed by theofN.J. Department of Banking and Insurance | Licensed Banker -- NYS Banking Department | Rhode Island Licensed Lender Massachusetts Lender/Broker License| MC1071. License #0910184 | Licensed by www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org. the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act | Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee #15499 | Kansas Licensed Mortgage Company For licensing information go to: | Licensed by the N.J. Department of Banking and Insurance | Licensed Mortgage Banker -- NYS Banking Department | Rhode Island Licensed Lender | Massachusetts Lender/Broker License MC1071. For licensing information go to: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org.

20  Robbinsville Advance | June 2020