3-22 TD by Community News Service

downtowner Trenton’s City Paper

March 2022 |

communitynews.org

Into the Wood

David Robinson brings a natural touch to public art in the capital city. Page 8.

TASK marks 40 years, page 4; M’kina Tapscott gets down to business at Artworks, 6.

UP FRONT

TDA welcomes new board members

he Trenton Downtown Association has announced the election of five new members to its board: Raoul Momo, Terra Momo Restaurant Group; Eric Poe, CURE Auto Insurance; Liad Onitiri, iPutOn Agency; Wayne Downing, Success Barbershop; and William “Butch” Osterman, owner of 113 South Warren Street. A new representative from the mayor’s office, Andres Lomi, real estate manager at the City of Trenton, was also appointed to the board. The announcement follows another two months ago reporting that Bryan Evans was named vice chair and Anne LaBate was named treasurer. They have both served on the TDA board for several years. According to a recent press release, TDA is also moving forward with goals that include broadening its board of directors and supporting Commercial District Services in the implementation of a new, vital downtown work plan. CDS is the public space management company retained by the TDA board to manage the Special Improvement District implementation of new streetscape enhancements and quality-of-life improvements throughout the district. TDA is also seeking additional board members to fill the seats of departing board members Clark Martin, Hal English, Richard Patterson, and

Christien Nicole Brown. TDA is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to strengthen and support the business district of New Jersey’s state capital with programs that promote its economic growth and investment. Its staff is involved in business recruitment and retention, public relations, advocacy, marketing support, referrals, partnership development and job creation. Individuals interested in serving on the TDA board should send an email, along with a brief bio or resume that states their interest, to info@trentondowntown.com.

Boheme Opera returns to Trenton

oheme Opera NJ returns to the main stage at Patriots Theater at the War Memorial for Giuseppe Verdi’s “Rigoletto” on March 18 and 20. Boheme was co-founded 33 years ago in Trenton by Trenton native and Trenton Central High School music instructor Joseph Pucciatti and his musician wife, Sandra Milstein-Pucciatti. It is now recognized as one of the oldest opera companies in New Jersey. The fully staged production of Verdi’s 1851 work dealing with revenge, fate, and lust will feature costumes and digital sets evoking the 1930s setting. “We’ve set the opera in a turbulent era that heightens the story’s traditional emotional tension,” says Pucciatti. “Rigoletto” will be performed in Ital-

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ian with English supertitles, preceded by pre-curtain talks in the theater one hour before start of performances, presented by Boheme Board President Jerrold Kalstein. Performances will be on Friday, March 18, at 8 p.m. and Sunday, March 20, at 3 p.m. Proof of vaccination and masks will be required for entry, and socially distanced seating will be observed. 609-581-9551 or www.bohemeopera.org/rigoletto.

James Kerney Campus Gallery celebrates five years

ames Kerney Campus Gallery (JKCG) is marking five years of sharing photography-based art with downtown audiences. Located in MCCC’s Trenton Hall at 137 North Broad Street, JKCG is directed and curated by Professor Michael Chovan-Dalton, the coordinator of the college’s photography program. Chovan-Dalton had big visions for the gallery when it opened its doors in 2017, and while many of those goals have been realized, it remains a “work in progress,” he says. “I wanted our new gallery to become part of an already vibrant Trenton arts

Boheme Opera founders Joseph Pucciatti, left, and Sandra Milstein-Pucciatti. scene and to serve as a magnet for local and regional lens-based artists, as well as a destination for nationally recognized artists. I also wanted to give MCCC photography students experience with how shows are curated and installed and opportunities to engage with the artists,” he says in a recent press release. JKCG has produced 28 exhibition that have examined a variety of themes, including those related to social justice, urban and natural environment, and culture. Also participating in the development of the gallery are Ryann Casey, a regional artist and MCCC art history of photography instructor, and Trenton photographers Habiyb Shu’Aib and Heather Palecek. The latter two photographers also curate the gallery’s monthly “Third Thursdays” artist talks and panel discussions. The live, digital, and hybrid events have attracted local, national, and international engagement. 609-586-4800 or www.mccc. edu/community_galler y_jkc.shtml.

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March 2022 | Trenton Downtowner3 2/18/22 9:35 AM

Trenton Area Soup Kitchen celebrates a milestone: 40 years of food

By Joyce E. Campbell TASK executive director

n January 13, 2022, the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK) turned 40. From my perch as TASK’s executive director for the last five and a half years, it feels much like it did when I turned 40: a milestone to be feared and embraced, with a sense of truly being an adult with a firm stand on this earth. I often think of TASK’s founders and their response in 1982 to what had been the worst recession in the United States since the Great Depression of 1929. I imagine their surprise that soup kitchens were needed, having thought that after the “Great One” there would never be such hunger again. Did they think that TASK’s job would be done before it reached 40? Could they have envisioned a future where TASK would feed even more people and provide even more services over time? Today, as then, we can and do fear some of what the unknown future holds, but in true TASK style, I know that this milestone is one that we embrace. Turning 40 has been cause to review our values and purpose, to evaluate our priorities, and envision what the next 40 years might look like. TASK’s board of trustees, staff, volunteers, community partners, and patrons come upon this milestone in the wake of the nation’s worst pandemic since the Spanish flu in 1918. The Covid-19 pandemic challenged TASK to meet a higher demand for food and more assistance navigating a pandemic world on behalf of those who are homeless and/or living in poverty. Instead of saying “We can’t do that,” all involved said, “How can we do it?” And so, off we went to continue feeding without missing a day and providing the continuum of services we know people need. TASK has been blessed by strong community support during this difficult pandemic time. The Trenton

Food services and facilities manager Paul Jensen, above, in the TASK kitchen. Trenton Area Soup Kitchen staff members Bashier Spence, near right, and Gina Rivers serving outdoor meals in 2020. area community ensured that TASK’s patron community was well taken care of. Now, as in 1982, the community’s support has allowed us to stay true to our values and core principles. While the services TASK offers have grown and changed over the years, food is always first. No one can thrive without being fed, and TASK takes pride in providing meals with a commitment to Mercer County. Today this message dignity, quality, and respect. remains truer than ever. TASK continEvery individual comes to TASK ues to embody the triumph of commuwith a unique set of life experiences nity; TASK is a daily reminder of the and challenges that seem like hurdles tenacity of the human spirit and the too high for anyone to get over. How- impact we can make when we work ever, TASK partners with our very together. resilient patrons to jump that hurdle. TASK has become an engine of hope At TASK, we avoid seeing crisis as an in the greater Trenton community and insurmountable problem. We encour- an engineer of opportunity by staying age patrons to actrue to its miscept that change sion. For TASK, is a part of livEvery individual comes looking back ing, and we help demonstrates an to TASK with a unique patrons nurture enduring aligna positive view ment of mission set of life experiences of themselves. and vision, reWhen someone and challenges that minding us of sits down to eat lessons learned seem like hurdles too at TASK, they and rememberfeel a sense of ing those who high for anyone to get community and inspired us over over. a connection to the years. Lookothers, which is ing forward, we possibly the best can be assured service that we provide. Ultimately, that TASK will continue to meet the our patrons’ resiliency is a result of needs of the community, following the partnership — between the individual, same values and principles instilled at staff, volunteers, and donors. our founding. At the dedication ceremony for Advocacy and leadership are two of TASK’s permanent home in 1991, TASK’s guiding principles: to inform then chairman of the board, Steve the community about hunger and povLeder, termed the building a “triumph erty and to advocate for programs and of community” and a testimony to policies that alleviate these conditions. the goodwill of the people of greater Hunger is not a simple issue. While a

4Trenton Downtowner March 2022

meal may fill a belly for a moment, the struggles that contributed to someone needing that meal are complex. We can, and should, dream that the Trenton area will one day be free of hunger and poverty, but while we are busy dreaming let’s not forget to use our community of voices to demand more for the common good. We must share that we know what it takes to make life better for those who hunger. Looking ahead another 40 years to 2062, I do not believe that anyone can predict what TASK will be — or if it will even be. But as long as TASK is here, I know for sure it will be a triumph of community. Trenton Area Soup Kitchen, which has been serving the Mercer County region since 1982, operates the only week-day soup kitchen in the Trenton area. In addition to providing more than 8,000 hot and nutritious meals each week, TASK offers a multitude of resources to encourage self-sufficiency and improve quality of life including the provision of basic necessities, case management, adult education, job search assistance, and creative arts. Joyce Campbell is the executive director of TASK. More information: www.trentonsoupkitchen.org

Recalling TASK’s beginnings and a piece of Trenton history The optimistic mid-1970s plan that transformed Trenton’s streets into the Trenton Commons pedestrian mall fell far short of its economic expectations and, despite reports and observation that showed it was a failure, unhappy merchants saw the presence of a downtown soup kitchen as a source of its problems. The result was a collision of community needs that became very public when it appeared in the November 24, 1985, New York Times article “Trenton Soup Kitchen a Focus of Controversy.” A month later the New York Times published the following statement I wrote that puts the times, situation, and hope in perspective:

abandoned houses and absent land- the problem will disappear by unseen lords, its poor sections and past lack forces is fruitless. What is needed are of pride, had unwittingly assisted in realistic appraisals of the situation. e were aware of Alice ParkIf the Commons’ businesses want to creating this situation. er’s quest to establish the To say the soup kitchen is respon- move TASK elsewhere — and there Trenton Area Soup Kitchen sible for the vagrants and others is really is no ‘’good’’ place for a center in the late 1970s and hoped to help at like saying the city’s Fire Department for the poor — perhaps they should some point. help develop strategies and funds to is responsible for fires. “We” were community activist Don Perhaps it is because at the soup help them relocate. To pass the buck Massara, artist Liz Roszel, and me, a kitchen these people are assembled and hope others do the caring and community-minded writer and arts and the realization of their problem solving is part of the problem that beorganizer who had recently moved to hits harder than if they were peppered gan this sad situation. the city. around the center city. Yes, it’s disIn the days before Artworks, Mill he reality that TASK was given its turbing. It always has been and, until Hill Playhouse, and Joe’s Mill Hill Saown space, is celebrating its 40th the problems of the poor are taken loon, the three of us had come up with anniversary, and Trenton Commons care of, it always will be. a plan to start a volunteer arts projNo one can blame Trenton’s mer- removed suggest that what I wrote at ect in downtown Trenton. Our hopes chants for wanting a renaissance of the time was the general community were to jump start the city’s cultural business. To start pointing fingers at sentiment and something that continlife and have some fun in the process. the problems of the poor as the cause ues to be recalled — and celebrated. The plan was embraced by the First n December 1979, when a group of their woe is unfortunate. To hope United Methodist Church’s Rev. Robfrom the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen ert Smith and a congregation who allowed us to use the downtowns fa- (TASK) encountered problems with cilities — including a kitchen — to its proposed Perry Street site, a group launch the Original Trenton Coffee- coordinating cultural activities at house. The name was based on the the First United Methodist Church Original Trenton decided to start Oyster crackers an experimenacronym OTC. tal soup-kitchen ‘No one can blame For several project both to years we weekly see what the Trenton’s merchants for produced a seneed was and to wanting a renaissance ries of musical provide for the concerts, play holiday season. of business. To start and poetry readThe project ings, lectures, pointing fingers at the was the catalyst and anything that for the kitchen’s problems of the poor seemed interestmove to the ing to present. Trenton Comas the cause of their The results mons, the forwere productive. woe is unfortunate. To mer main street It became the of shops that is Are you looking to START or GROW your career in real estate? hope the problem will place for plannow a pedestrian Harkes Realty & Associates is your partner to help you meet your ning the Eyes on disappear by unseen shopping mall. real estate goals. Trenton Festival, As one of those forces is fruitless. What which led to the who coordinated See the difference in what we offer our agents: establishment of that first event, I is needed are realistic Artworks; a jazz clearly recall our • Continued growth and personal development series that evenappraisals of the motivation: the • Competitive earning structure tually moved to already disturbsituation.’ Joe’s Mill Hill Sa• 1-1 training and continued education ing number of loon and helped street and poor • The Harkes difference: a community of people who want to see mark the spot as people around YOU succeed. a music center; and a series of spoken the Commons. word or theatrical events that led to We served hundreds of people at Schedule Your Interview Today! my work on establishing Trenton’s that first dinner; we sponsored anonly professional theater, Passage other, and attendance almost doubled. Contact Fareeda Stokes, Broker of Record, at Theater. Additionally, Roszel and I Street people, discharged (but homefstokes@harkesrealty.com were married by Rev. Smith. less) mental patients, families, and Visit www.harkesrealty.com • (609) 337-4200 When we heard that Parker’s plan out-of-work men came then, as they to open the soup kitchen at a Perry continue to do. 1901 N. Olden Ave Ext., Suite #21, Ewing, NJ 08618 Street church were scuttled because For many, it was not only a chance Licensed in NJ & PA of a problem with asbestos in the for a free hot meal (and, for families, MWBE Certified building, we — now an informal group a needed saving), but also a sign of of organizers and community activists good will and understanding and a — saw our chance to pitch in and, with signal that human life is valued. the approval of the church, connected To see a storm develop from the with Parker to start addressing what Commons’ businesses regarding the we saw as a growing need in the com- soup kitchen is disheartening. The munity. poor people and street people were Eventually, Parker’s dream found there before TASK and our project; its reality at First United Methodist otherwise, there would have been Church. But an unexpected wakeup no reason to begin. Trenton, with its call soon followed.

By Dan Aubrey

We are HIRING Real Estate Agents

March 2022 | Trenton Downtowner5

M’kina Tapscott gets down to business at Artworks Trenton By Dan Aubrey

’kina Tapscott takes a seat at the Up One Down coffee shop in Trenton to talk business. In her case, it’s running an urban arts organization. Tapscott recently took the helm of the nonprofit Artworks Trenton. Situated in a former Sears warehouse in the capital city, the organization is known for its artists’ studios, workshops, exhibitions, and two signature art events: Art All Night is the 24-hour arts festival, and Art All Day, a day for visiting Trenton artists’ studios and seeing exhibitions around the city. Its current business model is a $400,000 budget that allows for two full-time and two part-time employees. A native of Texas and a product of the Houston art scene, Tapscott replaces Lauren Otis, who announced he was ending his six-year tenure in late 2021. Otis successfully maintained the organization through two difficult times. One was after the popular Art All Night festival became the site of a shooting. The other involved guiding the organization through the uncertainty of the pandemic. Now Tapscott, the first woman of color to run the 34-year-old arts center, is following the organization’s pre-established two-year plan as well as looking to the future of both the organization and city.

ith 15 years of experience working with community arts development, starting with the Houston-based social and art service program Project Row Houses, Tapscott says she senses opportunities for more public engagement in the arts. For proof, Tapscott points to the growing number of Trenton public art projects. That includes Artworks’ active leadership with the recent New Jersey State Council on the Arts/NJ Transit’s Trenton Transit Station arts project and work supported by a Bloomberg Philanthropies Asphalt Art Grant. She also mentions initiatives and programming happening in the public schools. “I feel this means the city is asking for more opportunities. The community is asking for it,” she says. Another is the potential “economic upgrade in Trenton because of the engagement with the arts” — a phenomenon that has worked in other small post-industrial cities but has stalled in Trenton. Tapscott then jumps ahead and starts talking about something that has also happened in those small cities: gentrification. “There is opportunity for renewal without displacement,” she says. “Finding the balance is tricky. Art has been used by cities to revitalize the area but not able to provide the services for the people who are living in those spaces.” But that will wait. Tapscott says now is the time for Artworks and other nonprofits to help communities reconnect and rebuild after the effects of the pandemic. “This is time for nonprofits to turn the gas on, rev up our engines, and actively find ways to find ways to deal with mental health and wellness and getting back into the stride of things.” Assessing the state of the nonprofit arts business, she admits that “times are tight” and funding organizations presents a lot of challenges. “It will be difficult. Artworks will need to prove to people why it is important.” To do that, she will have to tap into variety of her past experiences. In addition to Project Row Hous-

6Trenton Downtowner March 2022

M’kina Tapscott has relocated from Houston, Texas, to become the new executive director of Artworks Trenton. es, she has held education and outreach positions at the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, and the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft. And with a MFA from the University of Houston and a BFA from Texas State University, she also has taught art history and studio art at the University of Houston and Houston Community College. She is also a practicing artist whose works touch on human issues and consumption. “I am an interdisciplinary concept artist who has worked in ceramics and enjoys creating objects by repurposing found materials. I really like working with my hands, and the opportunity to get dirty and work with clay and glass and metal to create something.” A reviewer of her installation for an Art League of Houston exhibition called it “refreshingly immersive and cohesive” and a “space womb.” Tapscott’s connection to art is through her family. She says her mother, a stay-at-home-mom turned office administrator, and father, a Houston oil rigs draftsman, exposed her to the arts by taking her to plays, films, and museums. Additionally, she says her uncle is the Los Angeles based jazz musician Horace Tapscott and that she comes “from a long line of piano players and singers and actresses.” In addition to Project Row House, Tapscott also co-founded the online publication Not That But This to use her creative energy and provide artists with opportunities to share work and ideas.

apscott says the move from Houston to Trenton was appealing for a few reasons. “There’s a bigger audience here,” she says about the East Coast. “There is also the lure of history.” That includes being in a state that was home to music legends Dionne Warwick and Bruce Springsteen — something that makes her want to incorporate more music in Artworks programs. She also says that it seemed easy because Trenton and Houston have a lot in common. Similarities include the needs of communities, such as the African-American population involved with Project Row House, and a “need or desire to revitalize the city and bring people back downtown.”

Although the decision has been made to put Art All Night on hiatus for 2022, Tapscott says the project is important and will be back in the future. She also wants to develop “an artist in residency program, involve artists of color into community mapping and placemaking, and engage more artists using digital media. “There are a lot of opportunities for Artworks and artists going into communities and neighborhoods and finding ways to broaden our borders. “When I learned that Trenton has a population of 80,000, I dreamt that we should be able to service every person, even digitally. Especially thinking about the numbers reached in Art All Night.” To begin working towards that goal, she says, “One of the first things I want to do is to hire additional artists and arts administrators and art educators.” Then in 2023 she intends to add additional classes, including print making workshops, and providing after school and summer art programs for youths — just in time for the organization’s 35th anniversary. In a statement she released when accepting the position, Tapscott says, “As a city, Trenton continues to struggle for resources and recognition despite being the state capital. It is in these likenesses of needs, of opportunity and space where positive change can be enacted through deepening connections to people, art and community.” Then demonstrating her ability to speak Spanish, she adds, “I genuinely believe — el arte cambia a la gente y la gente cambia el mundo,” which translates as, “art changes people, and people change the world.” Asked to provide an example to show that belief, she quickly answers, “Me. As a child, having a family that allowed me to express myself in art making and going to see plays changed me. I think I’m a kinder person. I think that’s because of art. Seeing the beauty in things. I love beauty.” She also knows the effort that an organization faces to make change and beauty and says, “It’s going to take some heavy lifting.” Artworks, 19 Everett Alley. 609-394-9436. www. artworkstrenton.org.

SIX09 Arts > food > culture

thesix09.com | March 2022

Get Lucky

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

Summer camps for all interests, page 8.

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

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

By ReBekaH ScHROeDeR

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

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

Tir na nOg

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

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

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

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2SIX09 | March 2022

See ST. PATRICK, Page 4

WE HAVE A TAX SITE IN YOUR TOWN: CALL 2-1-1

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

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Cannabis Therapy. The legalization of medical marijuana has brought new treatment options. “We are very excited by the potential of cannabis-based treatments and we comply fully with New Jersey’s evolving regulations,” says Dr. Patel. He uses a local dispensary to provide treatments, which include edibles such as gummy bears and cannabis-based rubbing and vaping oils. Minimally Invasive Therapy. Dr. Patel offers a wide variety of minimally invasive therapies. These include epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections, radiofrequency ablation, and spinal cord stimulation for patients suffering from chronic neck and back pain stemming from herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, or spinal stenosis. His goal is to help his patients avoid surgery and at the same time regain functionality. Thanks to these and other game-changing treatments, pain levels can be greatly reduced or eliminated and quality of life enhanced. Says Dr. Patel, “Stop your pain. Start your life.”

Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute 666 Plainsboro Road, Suite 100D Plainsboro. 609-269-4451 www.njpaindoc.com

(609) 269-4451 | info@njpaindoc.com | 666 Plainsboro Road Suite #100D Plainsboro, NJ 08536

ASK THE DOCTOR

March 2022 | SIX093 MARCH/APRIL 2020

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

4SIX09 | March 2022

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

The Cross and Shamrock

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

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

STI TESTING & TREATMENT CLINIC

March 2022 | SIX095

what’s cooking?

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MERCER EATS

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

One of the biggest impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic is its effect on local businesses. Due to the lockdowns and in an attempt to stay safe, people were doing their best to go out as little as possible. It’s arguable that restaurants were hit the hardest since they could only rely on takeout orders to sustain their business. After seeing one of her favorite restaurants shut down in early 2021, Kim X09Janel wanted to try and help by getting the word out on Facebook. “The group was established to help local restaurants survive COVID and

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

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

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thing to promote it besides always answering questions and being helpful,” she says. Even today as people become more comfortable eating out again, the group continues to grow. What had been a way to get the word out about restaurants during the pandemic has grown into a place to promote positivity for local restaurants. “Deleting negative comments is what sets my group apart from any other group I’ve been on. It’s positive comments and reviews only,” Janel says. “The concept of my group is different than Yelp entirely, it’s to help bring new customers in and to gener-

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6SIX09 | March 2022

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

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March 2022 | SIX097

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

2022

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

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

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

EWING RECREATION

Day Camp

OPEN TO ChILdREN ENTERING GRAdES k-7

Camps run from June 27 through August 26 Register and pay before April 11 and save 5%. Camp days include swimming twice a day (lessons in the mornings and free swim in the afternoons), arts and crafts, nature, cooking, special events, entertainers, theme days, athletics, dance and drama. $270 for Ewing Residents, $370 for non-residents

Counselors in Training (CIT) is $60 and is only open to Ewing residents. Additional fees for early and late hours. Multi-child discounts are available. Financial assistance is available.

Ewing POOLS: 12pm - 8pm daily

Ewing Pool System locations, Hollowbrook Community Center (HCC) and Ewing Sr. & Community Center (ESCC). Season dates are Saturday, May 28th - Labor Day. Open weekends and Memorial Day until June 19th. Pools open full time June 20th. HCC is available Saturdays for private rentals only. Contact Raquel at rince@ewingnj.org for rentals. Splashpads are a popular feature at both pools! Pool patrons can pay daily fees or register for season passes at Communitypass.net. Register and pay before April 11th and save $25! Swim Lessons at HCC: Evaluations, Saturday, June 18th. Sessions are on Monday evenings and Saturday mornings.

8SIX09 | March 2022

COMMUNITYPASS.NET

Recreation Office at Ewing Senior & Community Center 999 Lower Ferry Rd, Ewing, NJ • 609-883-1776 Email: Nancy at npappano@ewingnj.org or Ted at tforst@ewingnj.org.

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

AUGUST 8–19 AUGUST AUGUST 8–19 8–19 AUGUST 99 am–3 pm am–39 8–19 pm am–3 pm AUGUST grades 4–9 4–9 grades grades 4–9 9 am–3 pm

vocal ensemble, comedy, music video and web video. For master class students will learn the ins and outs of show business and develop their audition skills and work with others on advanced scenes. Master class also culminates in a showcase performance for family and friends. Former Tomato Patchers say “Ever since the first day I walked in as a little incoming eighth grader I felt so welcomed! Every class opens you up to more opportunities to learn new things and improve your skills. Tomato Patch is my home away from home for during the summer where I can feel like myself and sing/act/dance my heart out every day!” “I gained so much confidence and encouragement from Tomato Patch and honestly believe it made me out to be the silly, funny, caring and always singing teacher I am today!” Tomato Patch Visual and Performing Arts Workshops Kelsey Theatre, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor 08550. 609-570-3566 www.tomatopatch.org See ad, page 16.

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March 2022 | SIX099

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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10SIX09 | March 2022

THE CEN TR AL N J

Ballet Theatre

THE CENTR A L NJ

SUMMER MUSICAL THEATRE SHOW! Ballet Theatre PRESENTS

ENROLL TODAY FOR FALL!

Ages 3 and up Beginning thru advanced!

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

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

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

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

Video audition by May 15TH for leading Roles.

Ages 3 and up Beginning thru advanced!

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

SUMMER 2022!

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

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

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

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

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

BEGINNER DANCE CAMP

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

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

March 2022 | SIX0911

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

12SIX09 | March 2022

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

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

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

Russian School of Mathematics Award-Winning Program Comes to Princeton

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

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

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

BOB SMITH SOCCER ACADEMY

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

2022 SOCCER CAMP AT ROBBINSVILLE FIELD HOUSE

See ad, page 15.

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

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

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

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

Aug 15th - Aug 19th

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

Suggested for 5 & 6 year-old campers

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

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

Liberty Lake Day Camp

YMCA CAMP MASON

Summer Camp: The Hot Ticket for 2022!

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

O OVERNIGHT VERNIGHT C CAMP AMP

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

CONNECT WITH...

FUN

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

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

FIDENCE CONNCE CONFIDE

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ADVENTURE

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

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

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

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14SIX09 | March 2022

RESILIENCE

ADVENTURE

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

Bob Smith Soccer AcademY

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

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

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

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

! h s o o l Kunga

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

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

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

Summer

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March 2022 | SIX0915

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To Register visit www.tomatopatch.org

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

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

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

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

Little Friends School SERVING CHILDREN FOR OVER 35 YEARS

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

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

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impacting kids’ lives

LibertyLakeDayCamp.com March 2022 | SIX0917

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIND YOUR Y AT THE HAMILTON AREA YMCA

609.581.9622 hamiltonymca.org

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

7 weeks July 5August 19, 2022

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

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

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

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

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609 557-7325

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

Open House March 5, 2022 1– 3pm

Camp Mercyville

Where Kids Meet Jesus

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

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

March 2022 | SIX0919

DESTRIBATS CAMPBELL STAUB & SCHROTH, LLC established 1972

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

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

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

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

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

Community News Service 3/22 V-Easy Sudoku

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Community News Service 3/22

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

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

21 24 30

26 32

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

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

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

37 41 44

50 51 60

55 63

56 64

66 67 68 69 70

Artillery burst Lushes Cozy retreat Army ant Son of Seth

Down 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

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

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

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

Puzzle solutions on pg 22

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

7 9 6 1 2 3 4 5 8

5 3 8 4 7 6 2 1 9

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

3 4 5 7 1 8 9 2 6

1 6 7 2 9 5 3 8 4

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2 5 3 9 8 1 6 4 7

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I R A D E

V O W E D

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L O O N

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

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

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

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24SIX09 | March 2022

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March 2022 | Trenton Downtowner7

Around the town with Trenton woodworker David Robinson By Lori Goldstein

t’s a recent winter Saturday morning. Even though it’s cold, David Robinson, the rustic woodworker, and I have decided this is the best day for our day-trip, since snow is expected in the next day or so. I pull into the lot behind his shop at 2 Pearl Street, formerly known as the E.J. Scudder Foundry, where he’s worked for about 30 years. Robinson gives me a hand-warmer pack, I grab my hot tea thermos, and we’re off to see his masterful creations in multiple outdoor places in Trenton and Mercer County. Although I’ve read articles about Robinson and seen a few samples of his work, I ask him to tell me how he views his artisanship. “I call myself a woodworker, working in one of the world’s oldest professions, wood-gathering and building. I am a 21st century rustic woodworker, carrying on a tradition of building furniture and garden structures,” he says. His love for woodworking began in boyhood, when he followed around Mr. White, the carpenter hired to renovate his family’s house in New Hampshire. Robinson himself established Robbie’s Fix-it Shop for go-carts owned by his neighborhood friends. After a year at the University of New Hampshire, he followed his sister’s footsteps to

San Francisco. Robinson apprenticed himself to the Dutch sculptor Jacques Overhoff, to build architectural-scale precast concrete sculpture for public plazas throughout the city. “When the studio finally settled into an old factory building, I moved into a loft above the studio where I was surrounded by dozens of other young artists — painters, sculptors, dancers, writers, designers. During this time, Abby Jaroslow, another young art student, joined us on a number of jobs, including a monument restoration in Golden Gate Park. She later became my wife, and I followed her to New York, where she was to study historic preservation in architecture and landscapes at Columbia University’s School of Architecture and City Planning.” In New York, Robinson landed a job as director of the newly formed restoration crew for Central Park. “I had no idea how much that experience would change the course of my life,” he says. Robinson spent 10 years in that position before deciding to start his own business. We hop into Robinson’s red Ford pickup truck, with his logo, Natural Edge, on the door, and drive just a few minutes away — to the South River Walk Park above the Route 29 tunnel. We walk through a series of five half-

8Trenton Downtowner March 2022

circle arches, 12 feet tall and 14 feet wide, each one representing 100 years in Trenton’s history. Proceeding from each arch we walk on a chain of engraved plaques depicting milestones of that century. Robinson’s is the 17th century arch, made out of white oak he found locally. He points to the joinery, where the angles dovetail with each other and wooden dowels pull the angles tight together. “The wood is starting to weather,” he observes. “It’s had little maintenance in the last 20 years. At the minimum it needs to be painted with sealer, but some of it needs to be

David Robinson, left, and his Lenape Hut on the grounds of the Trent House. reinforced for the next 20 years.” Our second stop is Trenton’s Old Barracks Museum, where Robinson has built two structures, also made of white oak. One is a shed for protection when the reenactors assemble and for storage of wood to repair the fence and gates. Robinson notices that squirrels are chewing on the wood of the rafters and that one gate is in disSee WOODWORK, Page 10

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WOODWORK, continued from Page 8 repair. He says he’d be willing to volunteer or accept less remuneration to make necessary repairs. His second, smaller shed houses a bread oven. He also made boxes in which to knead the dough. On our way out of the property, Robinson spots a tree with an enormous trunk: “It would be a lot of fun to build a treehouse up there,” he muses. As a child, he loved to build treehouses and birdhouses. He still does. We exit through the sturdy Barracks’ main gate, which he also constructed. “I’ve made hundreds of gates, so I have the system down,” he says. At another backyard property, the 1719 William Trent House Museum, Robinson says that two years ago there was an exhibition with the theme of immigration to the Trenton area. It was his suggestion to build a Lenape hut, which stands there now, representing the indigenous Americans who inhabited Trenton originally. “I used miscellaneous wood that I could bend to create the curves in the hut,” he says. Now Robinson points to a chair in the yard, which he made out of apple wood. “There are 10 to 15 different varieties of apple trees growing in this yard,” he says. “And I made four ‘angry trees’ for the Angry Orchard Cider House” in Walden, New York. Now driving through Cadwalader Park, we approach Ellarslie, the Trenton City Museum. At the entrance we walk through a trellis with two benches made of cedar and Osage orange wood capped with a distinctive finial that curves with the wood from which it’s made, a characteristic Robinson touch. “I was figuring I’d come back and add another rafter or two to reinforce it,” he says. “But it seems pretty solid.” As we enter the museum store, the proprietor says she’d like to buy one of his birdhouses on display, the one with a woodpecker that

also serves as a doorknocker. Robinson guarantees that “birds build nests in 95 percent of my birdhouses.” In one of the galleries, the wintry sun shines through a window where one of his benches sit, a combination of cedar, Osage, and locust. “I like working with Osage wood because it has curves and is durable,” he says. “Choosing, harvesting, and gathering wood is the most creative and important part of building rustic structures and furniture. Not just any old piece of wood or branch will do. I primarily look for wood that is suitable for outdoor use: cedar, juniper. Other durable materials I use which have interesting and inspiring branch shapes are mulberry, Osage, locust, walnut, fruit trees — apple and pear — and some shrubs, such as lilac, rhododendron, and mountain laurel.”

t’s late in the afternoon, after looking at his nonTrenton works at Grounds For Sculpture and the Scott and Hella McVay Poetry Trail in Princeton, we’re at a café, and Robinson shows me photos of another passion: teaching his trade to children. One photograph of children learning the art of woodworking from him shows two little girls on a bench. The girl on the left is his daughter, Leah, who at age 3 sustained a brain injury. In her 30s now, she lives in a house on a farm campus in upstate New York, where she is able to receive the support she needs. Robinson and Jaroslow normally visit Leah twice a month, but because of COVID, they haven’t seen her in more than a year. Their 30-year-old son, Daniel, has his own photography studio. He smiles at the next photograph, of a young boy and girl with hammers in hand, wearing hardhats. After all, he knows he’s inspiring the next generation of rustic woodworkers. For more on David Robinson, go to www.naturaledgerustic.com.

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12Trenton Downtowner March 2022