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MARCH 2022 FREE

A store of their own

A bright star in N.J. Mayor Peter Cantu writes about the state of Plainsboro Township in 2022

Mercer High students gain realworld skills at Chuck’s Place

By PeTer A. CANTU

By ReBeKAh SchrOeDer

Serving up hot coffee and vocational skills, Chuck’s Place, a Wawa-like store in Mercer High School, is an opportunity for students who work there to gain valuable occupational experience. “It’s our very own Wawa,” Elijah Cruhigger, a student from Trenton, said. With a storefront that mirrors the East Coast convenience chain known across New Jersey, students like Cruhigger are able to acquire real-world expertise outside of the classroom. “I learned to be a bit more flexible, a bit more independent, and definitely learn the skills I need to advance on my own when that time comes,” he said. “I like to work with others, and just help people out and make them happy.” Chuck’s Place is one of several work environments offered through Mercer County Special Services School District. The MCSSSD serves children with special needs living in Mercer County and the surrounding area. It provides instructional, vocational and therapeutic programs See CHUCK’S PLACE, Page 8

Ludovic Andre, left, is taking over from Chris Cirkus as manager of the Trenton Farmers Market. Cirlus, a West Windsor resident, continues to manage the West Windsor Farmers Market.

Their courage compassion Managersand & seasons change us all. at Trentoninspire Farmers Market

One morning, a message written in chalk appeared history dating back to 1939 parallel buildings became in front of an RWJBarnabas Health facility. The words according to the market web- the current cross shape by have been simpler, or more soul the stirring, cutting center building site, when a group of farmIf you’ve never been to thecouldn’t accurate. ers who had been coming by in half and affixing it to the Trenton Farmers Market, youor more

By GeOrGe POiNT

don’t know what a farmers horse and carriage to Tren- eastern building. Outdoor ton to sell their produce near market stalls evolved into an market can be. bridge indoor facility with overhead We welcome the prolifera- the Trenton Makes “Heroes doors that give the market its tion of the markets dotting since the early 1900s work needed here.” our area that appear in park- to make way for the construc- distinctive bringing-the-outing lots, plazas, and vacant tion of Route 29. The farmers doors-indoors feel. It’s the co-op structure of formed the Trenton Market lots during the growing sea-Three words of gratitude and encouragement that son and bring the bounty of Growers Cooperative Associa- the market that makes it, the courage and compassion of health tion and purchased property and the role of its manager, a the Garden State close to ourcapture here Street. and across America.bit Todifferent share your from other popon Spruce doorsteps. The Trenton Farm-workers or tothe support Emergency Response Fund, in the area, type markets Over next our nine years, up ers Market is that, and sothanks market buildings were explains Chris Cirkus, a resimuch more. visitthree rwjbh.org/heroes A brief look back illustrates moved into place, and even- dent of West Windsor who began withstay three one significant difference, a tually Seesafe. TFM, Page 6 Andwhat please, for them, home and

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Although the state and nation are facing enormous challenges going forward in this surreal pandemic-induced environment, I am looking at Plainsboro Township’s future through an optimistic lens. Having just celebrated Plainsboro’s centennial on May 6, 2019, when the community looked back on our heritage, we now are focusing on our town today and its path forward for tomorrow. The most recent bright spot on the horizon occurred a few months ago with the approval of a plan on Princeton University-owned lands to create a walkable, integrated mixed-use neighborhood development with a strong sense of place— defined by a “Main Street”-style commercial component, varied housing opportunities (950 units, including up to 200 units being age-restricted), modern office environments and vibrant civic and open spaces. With an invaluable vantage point that comes from serving as mayor for more than four decades and from being married to one of the town’s few remaining natives, I have watched Plainsboro TownSee CANTU, Page 4

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2The News | March 2022

AroUND toWN

Joan Parry, WW Historical Society founder, passes away Joan Sant Antonio Parry, 89, of West Windsor died Monday, Feb. 7 at home surrounded by her loving family. Born in Brooklyn, New York and raised in Valley Stream, Long Island, Parry graduated from the Katherine Gibbs School in New York City. She worked at Hill and Knowlton public relations firm in New York City. She attended New York University at night majoring in history. Parry resided in Greenwich Village in the 1960’s, married her loving husband Scott in 1968 and they gave birth to their daughter Christiana in 1970. They moved to their 13 acre property on Bear Brook Road in Princeton Junction in 1972 where they tended to the farm and built their dream house known as “The Castle” on the Tamarack Farms. Parry was the founder of the West Windsor Historical Society and the Historical Association of Central New Jersey. Daughter of the late Ralph and Gertrude (Ebelt) Sant Antonio, sister of the late Ruth Gruen, she is survived by her husband of 54 years Scott B. Parry, daughter Christiana (Kiki) Parry, 2 grandchildren Griffin and Kate Mosley. A Memorial Service is being

planned by the family for the spring. you will not be sitting with the tax Arrangements are under the direc- counselors when they prepare your tion of the Mather-Hodge Funeral return as you have in the past. Home, Princeton. You will interact with the tax counselors by telephone to provide inforSenior Center oﬀers free mation about your return and answer questions the tax counselors have. income tax assistance You also will be given a time to The West Windsor Senior Center return to the Senior Center the same will be sponsoring tax preparation day to pick up your tax documents and help to individuals, free of charge, tax return and sign an IRS form that with a special focus on taxpayers who will allow the tax counselors to elecare over 50 and have low to moder- tronically file your return. You will be ate income, Mayor Hemant Marathe asked to verify that all the documents you provided to the tax counselors said. The program will be available at the were returned to you. For further information and to West Windsor Senior Center through April 12. Because of the coronavirus schedule an appointment contact the pandemic, how the AARP Tax-Aide’s Senior Center at (609) 799-9068. IRS-certified tax counselors prepare people’s taxes will be different this MCCC president year from previous years. They will candidates announced prepare your return following the IRS and Tax-Aide requirements for a The Mercer County CommuSame-Day Drop-Off Model. nity College Board of Trustees has At the time of your appointment, announced that four finalists have you will “drop off” your tax materials been selected by the Presidential at the Senior Center. The Tax-Aide Search Committee following a nationVolunteers will inventory your tax wide search for the college’s next documents and ask you to verify that president, which was supported by inventory. Thereafter, you may leave R.H. Perry & Associates. the Senior Center. To protect your The Board announced the names safety and that of the tax counselors, of the candidates during its meeting

on Feb. 17. According to Kevin Drennan, chair of the Search Committee and Board treasurer, the finalists were selected from more than 60 applicants for the position. The finalists for the presidency are: Warren Haynes, interim vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion, Metropolitan Community College District; Deborah Preston, provost and vice president for academic affairs, Raritan Valley Community College; Matthew Reed, vice president for academic affairs, Brookdale Community College; and Patrick Tompkins, vice president for academic, student and Workforce education, Eastern Shore Community College. Each of the four candidates will visit MCCC the week of March 7 to participate in interviews and open forums with a range of campus constituents, as well as members of the community. A bio and resume for each candidate can be found on the college’s Presidential Search web page at mccc. edu/hr/presidential-search.html. Details on the dates and times for the in-person and Zoom forums, along with an itinerary for the finalists’ campus visits, will be announced soon on the web page.

We are a newsroom of your neighbors. The News is for local people, by local people. As such, our staﬀ sets out to make our towns a closer place by giving readers a reliable source to turn to when they want to know what’s going on in their neighborhood. As part of the community, the West Windsor and Plainsboro News does more than just report the news—it connects businesses with their customers, organizations with their members and neighbors with one another. SENIOR COMMUNITY EDITOR Bill Sanservino (Ext. 104) CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rich Fisher, George Point, Rebekah Schroeder CONTRIBUTING COUMNIST Paul Ligetti AD LAYOUT AND PRODUCTION Stephanie Jeronis

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March 2022 | The News3

CANTU continued from Page 1 ship evolve from a placid agrarian to a high-energy suburban community with numerous world-class, for-profit and not-for-profit corporations and research facilities. The prestigious, high-profile entities include: Novo Nordisk’s North American headquarters, Firmenich Inc., Munich Reinsurance headquarters, Siemens Corporate Research Center, Integra Life Sciences, Novartis, Croda International headquarters, Sandoz Inc., Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (fusion energy), Penn Medicine Medical Center and health-care campus, Genmab U.S., headquarters, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. In addition, more than half of the town’s total square miles has been set aside as open space, an invaluable investment in the quality of the life for those who work and live in the community as well as for generations of future residents and employees. Times have certainly changed over the past 60 years from when my wife, Gale Cantu, would ride a horse down Plainsboro Road through a town with 1,600 cows and only 1,200 residents. And as much as she is nostalgic about the quaint Plainsboro of her youth, Gale is thrilled with how the community has evolved. Today’s perspective is a future of enormous promise. Plainsboro has been recognized by New Jersey Monthly magazine as one of the top 10 “Best Places to Live” in New Jersey and by Fortune Small Business magazine as one of the “100 Best Places to Live and Launch a Small Business.” These accolades were due not only to the town’s superb location, but also to forward-thinking governing and planning over many years on the part of the town’s leaders, professional municipal staff, and the numerous residents working as volunteers to support their community. Specifically, there are six areas that play a role in the vibrancy of Plainsboro’s today and tomorrow

Location, location, location

Plainsboro, 12 square miles in the southwest corner of Middlesex County, has what realtors often say is the number one quality sought after by home buyers and corporations: location, location, location. Straddling both sides of Route 1, it is in the center of the state and central to the state’s success today and tomorrow. The excellence of its highways and mass transit infrastructure road provide accessibility to almost any employment, educational, or recreational location in New Jersey as well as within the New York-Philadelphia regional corridor.

Diversity

According to the 2020 US Census, Plainsboro’s diverse population is 24,084; about 53-percent of the residents are foreign born. Diversity is evidenced by the population breakdown: 58-percent Asian, about 31-percent White, about 6-percent Black, and about 3-percent Hispanic or Latino.

4The News | March 2022

The 1,000-acre Plainsboro Preserve, located on Scotts Corner Road, is the crown jewel of Plainsboro Township’s open space inventory and features the 50-acre McCormack Lake.

The fiscal picture The advantages of Plainsboro’s location would dim quickly if the economy were simply a black hole that swallowed the community’s vitality. Instead, Plainsboro’s economic picture is the bright star in New Jersey. Plainsboro with a AAA bond rating has one of the lowest (effective) municipal purpose tax rates in Middlesex County, and the taxes have remained low because of an excellent ratable base of $4.535 billion. The economic strength of the community directly relates to decades of careful, strategic land use planning and implementation. The planning process has enabled Plainsboro to become Central Jersey’s pre-eminent site for world renowned corporations that have gone through a thorough deliberate analysis. They all have come to the same conclusion—Plainsboro is the place to be. The heart of Plainsboro’s corporate development is Princeton Forrestal Center—Princeton University’s Corporate Office and Research Complex. Today, Princeton Forrestal Center represents over 90% of Plainsboro Township’s commercial tax ratables. The Plainsboro lands within the Princeton Forrestal Center represent an economic powerhouse in the region with an approximate annual $7.3-billion-dollar economic impact. Founded in 1973, Princeton Forrestal Center is one of the nation’s premier university-associated office and research parks. Today it is home to over 225 businesses, ranging from prestigious multinationals to start-ups and academic research facilities, focused on a range of disciplines including life sciences, biotechnology, health services, financial services, information technology, engineering, architectural services, legal services, pharmaceuticals, energy services, communications, logistics and philanthropy. Plainsboro also is now the host community to the first-class, renowned

hospital Penn Medicine Medical Center which relocated to Plainsboro from Princeton in 2012. The hospital is the main medical entity within the healthcare campus of more than one million square feet. The campus development, with an estimated one billion dollar economic impact, also includes: an assisted living facility, skilled nursing facility, fitness center, medical offices, child care center, senior day care center, independent senior residences, and pediatric specialized care medical facility operated by Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

A-plus schools

People and corporations flock to Plainsboro for the quality of its K-12 schools, thus providing: developers’ confidence in their ability to market new housing units; corporations’ confidence in their ability to attract quality employees; and homeowners’ confidence in maintaining the value of their homes. The West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District is consistently ranked among one of the finest in New Jersey. The district is routinely among the top five statewide for highest SAT scores with 96 percent of the students going on to college.

Housing – A solid foundation Great schools would be irrelevant if people were unable to find suitable housing to fit their lifestyle and budget. Plainsboro, once again, gets an A-plus grade this time the subject being housing for people of all ages, financial means, and physical demands. The municipality has attracted an abundance of senior housing options on both sides of Route One. It has fulfilled its state mandated requirement for affordable housing, including a new development of 70 beautiful, contemporary, low- and moderate-income affordable apartment homes, made feasible

by a partnership between the local government and a private not for profit. In addition, some of the town’s most popular housing exists in Plainsboro Town Center, within walking distance to the library, restaurants, medical offices, and retailers.

Relaxation, recreation and restoration Plainsboro’s commitment to excellence in education, jobs, health care and wellness, land use planning, economic stability, and housing, is matched by its commitment to open space and other amenities that enhance mental and physical health of every resident in the community. More than 50% of Plainsboro’s approximately 12 square miles is preserved open space. Every building project that has been approved during the past several decades has an open space and walkways component. Plainsboro’s public parks provide for both active and passive recreational pursuits. The jewel is the 1,000-acre Plainsboro Preserve, which includes the 50-acre McCormack Lake, walking trails, wetlands, wooded areas, and natural habitats for plants, animals and migratory birds. The 6,500 square foot Rush Holt environmental education center, managed by Plainsboro Township’s Recreation Department, offers many nature and environmental programs. The township hosts a public Middlesex County owned golf course, and there are three fitness centers (two of them with state-of-theart pools) that accommodate all levels of exercise needs.

Going Forward:

It has been my privilege to serve Plainsboro as a volunteer and as an elected official for half a century. And as good as Plainsboro is today, I see the future to be even more spectacular – a fact that I hope will be celebrated at the town’s bicentennial on May 6, 2119.

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2/18/22 9:35 AM Health Headlines by Capital Health | THE NEWS 5

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6 Health Headlines by Capital Health | The News

An archival photograph shows the early days of the Trenton Farmers Market. (Facebook photo courtesy of Trenton Farmers Market.) TFM continued from Page 1 ended her three-year tenure as manager on January 22. “The Trenton Farmers Market (TFM) is a farmer cooperative,” she says. “Seven farms are members of the co-op, and the Trenton Market Growers Cooperative owns the market, and several farmers serve as board members.” Remarkably, Cirkus is only the fifth person who has filled the role of market manager over its long history, following the tenure of Marcia and Jack Ball. She is moving on to become regional food specialist with Zone 7, a New Jersey-based, local farm fresh food distributor. “Zone 7 has built a reputation as experts in local food,” Cirkus says. “The owner, Mikey Azzara, started the Lawrenceville Farmers Market years ago, he’s a well respected local foods person. I feel I have accomplished what I set out to do here, it’s a logical segue.” Cirkus notes that she will remain as manager of the West Windsor Community Farmers Market (WWCFM), a position she has held going on 12 years of that market’s 19-year existence. “Supporting farmers and small entrepreneurial makers who feature local products in their own offerings is what I do,” she says. “It’s been a wonderful crossover yet very different market experience being involved in both. The two markets share a few farms and vendors, and I was strategic in the crossover to Trenton.” She offers Hillsborough-based Zell’s Farm as an example of how the crossover to Trenton has helped bring new life, energy, and diversity to the market. “They (Zell’s) had approached me for the West Windsor Market, and we had two mushroom growers there already,” she says. “I was early in my

management of the Trenton market and had just completed a survey of the customers to find out what they were looking for and what they felt was missing from the diversity of already offered products. “Zell’s Farm grows mushrooms in Hillsborough and came in to Trenton for a trial year before being invited to join the cooperative. They have since expanded their offerings. We’re working on a relationship with them for the upcoming summer WWCFM season.” Bringing in vendors like Zell’s farm was part of a three-year effort to overcome Cirkus’ first up-close impression of the market when she began as manager. “Let’s just say the market was in need of some love,” she says. “It was a little darker, a bit dreary, kind of empty. It needed a little ‘Oomph!’ And my strength is that ‘Oomph!’ and community building, and I felt that the community wasn’t as well represented as it could be. I felt that I could bring that to this space.” Cirkus notes that, compared with the WWCFM, her stint as manager of the TFM presented additional challenges. “This market is unique, in that it’s a farmer co-operative, so farmers are members of the cooperative, and the cooperative owns the market,” she explains. “So even though it’s a private business, it has a different hierarchy than what most people think of when they think of a farmers market. “You’ve got farmers who are there year-round, some close around Thanksgiving, others close at Christmas time, so there’s a whole dynamic to the structure of the market that was the biggest learning curve for me. Part of the position is being a property manager, and I was surprised to discover that managing the acreage and the buildings was as big a piece of

work as it turned out to be.” How many vendors are currently part of the market? “We have 19 tenants,” Cirkus says, including seven farmers, a number of weekend rentals, and “there are about 16 tables that we call ‘dailies,’ so they’re not under lease. It’s a great space for an entrepreneur to sell their products and build a following.” Who’s the longest market tenant? “I think that’s Pulaski Meats,” she says. “Run by different iterations of the family for nearly 50 years, it’s an institution here.” And the most recent? “The newest is Out of Step,” she says. “Joe (Kuzemka) and Megan (Callahan Singletary) just opened at the end of November, and they’re such an amazing asset to the market. They represent different makers and artisans, what is exactly what I’ve done with all these daily tables.” “When I first came in a lot of those tables were vacant,” Cirkus adds. “It was winter, when it’s always a little slower, but I wanted more makers in the market, food, artists, jewelry makers, crafters, knitters — things that represent a broad cross-section. Joe and Megan do that in their store, I thought it might compete, but it actually complements the daily vendors.” Ironically, the onset of the COVID19 pandemic did not deter the operation of the market, Cirkus says. “When the governor’s first executive order came out declaring that farmers markets and grocery stores were deemed essential, it was probably the best thing that could have happened to the market at the time, because I was in the middle of this rebuilding and rebranding and resurgence, and then the pandemic hit the following March. “We placed a hand-washing station

in the middle of the market, and we keep the common area as clean as we can,” she continues. “It does prove to be challenging with some of the tenants because everyone has their own personal beliefs. We turn towards the municipal and state health departments for their guidance as to what the next iteration will be. I have seen more shoppers masking up lately.” Note: Cirkus says that the distinctive new Trenton Farmers Market logo, a key visual element of her rebranding effort, was designed by her husband, Mikel Cirkus, a noted designer, photographer, illustrator, and writer. “The evolution of the Trenton market has been a continuing process for a long time,” notes Gary Mount, president of the Trenton Market Growers Cooperative and a principal of Terhune Orchards in Lawrenceville. “There have been managers for the market ever since it started. Each one is different, and different for their times. Managers Jack and Marcia Ball kept the market going when all the other markets were falling by the wayside. “Chris brought new ideas and made it a more inclusive place and filled the market with activity, and that was what was needed,” Mount continues. “We’re very grateful to Chris, she’s accomplished a lot in her three years here. We wish her well in the future.” Cirkus is now passing the baton to her successor, Hamilton resident Ludovic Andre. Andre notes that the seeds of his lifelong interest in urban agriculture were planted in childhood, when he developed a connection to his father’s family garden. “That’s where the love started,” he says. “And I’ve been coming to the market since I was a kid.”

During a stint at Kingsbury’s Twin Towers in Trenton, Andre says that he started a community garden there, leading to his introduction to Isles, the Trenton-based community development and environmental organization as their urban agriculture coordinator and educator. “I discovered that I had some strengths working with youth, helping them to view their relationship with food differently,” he says. “I then moved on to manage Capital City Farm (in Trenton) for a time, which was a lot of fun,” he continues. “We produced over 5,000 pounds of food in one season there. That was during COVID, when a lot of people needed a safe space where they and their children could be outdoors and connect with nature.” What’s Andre’s vision for the market going forward? “I think that what Chris has accomplished speaks wonders,” he says. “I see my challenge is to continue the legacy and build on the

diversity that’s here. There’s a unique charm about this place, and if I can continue to uphold that the market will continue to be in good hands.” “I feel I was the right person to get the market happier, shinier, and more diverse and more engaged, and I believe Ludovic is the right person to take the market operationally and culturally to the future,” Cirkus sayss. “Ludovic’s a great guy” Gary Mount says. “There a lot of good things about Trenton, and the farmers market is one of the jewels of Trenton. We’re hopeful that Ludovic will carry it even further into the future. There are so many opportunities, and he seems poised to take advantage of them.” Trenton Farmers Market, 960 Spruce Street, Lawrence. Thursdays through Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Since hours and days of individual vendors are subject to change, please visit the website’s vendor page before visiting. 609-695-2998 or thetrentonfarmersmarket.com.

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After Jack Ball (center) retired as manager of the Trenton Farmers Market, Chris Cirkus (far right) took the reins. Picture are Trenton Farmers Market board treasurer Jim VanHandel of Cedarville Farms, vice president Kevin Gsell of Russo’s Fruit and Vegetable Farm, Ball, president Gary Mount of Terhune Orchards and Cirkus.

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Uchenna Ugorji sets up the salad bar for lunch at Chuck’s Place, a Wawa-like store in Mercer High School. CHUCK’S PLACE cont. from Page 1 designed for each student’s unique needs, interests and characteristics. The programs serve preschool, primary, elementary and secondary age populations. “MCSSSD programs are designed to teach multi-disabled, autistic and emotionally disturbed students,” states the MCSSSD website. “We also have special projects that provide services to infants, graduates, parents and other agencies.” “Our district continues to set best practice standards in our special education programs,” the website says. “Our primary goal is to assure each student reaches their full potential as productive and self-sufficient members of society through quality teaching by our dedicated teachers and staff.” The MCSSSD campus, which is made up of the Joseph F. Cappello School (students ages 3 to 7), Mercer Elementary School (grades K to 8) and Mercer High School (grades 9 to 12), is located in Hamilton Township on Old Trenton Road. At Chuck’s Place, students from a number of Mercer County communities take on a myriad of tasks like stocking shelves, preparing food, cleaning and other important responsibilities that all keep Chuck’s Place running as smoothly as possible. Accessible throughout the district, Chuck’s Place has fresh bagels, muffins and coffee all day. The yogurt parfait station turns into a salad bar for lunchtime, with both students, as well as staff, able to order food for their midday meal. Eventually, they plan to include sandwiches, burgers and other hot food items available as specials during the week. Julie Ryan supervises Chuck’s Place. Originally hired as a computer teacher, the 33-year veteran moved to a homeroom position, during which

Chuck’s Place was already in operation. When the former head of the store retired, Ryan stepped in as instructor. “I really like working in Chuck’s Place because we work on functional skills, and we see results every day with the work that we do is tangible. There’s not pencil and paper, or reading, or anything. Our philosophy in Chuck’s Place is everybody can do something,” she said. Chuck’s Place employs a wide range of students, such as those with cognitive impairments, autism, and other conditions that may affect social cues or development. “A lot of kids don’t like coming to math class or having U.S. history, but they always will like coming to Chuck’s Place,” Ryan said. She enjoys Chuck’s Place because she can work alongside students to see results, and not just with the ones assigned to her homeroom. Chuck’s Place was named after Charles “Chuck” Murray, the superintendent who was in charge of the MCSSSD when the program was created. “When you walk in, it doesn’t look like a classroom, it looks like a Wawa. It looks like a retail marketing facility, so it was a lot to get started,” Ryan said. “Without Dr. Murray, it never would have been, so they named it in honor of him. He has since passed away, so the name will never change.” As part of helping them start Chuck’s Place, Wawa even donated signs that are now visible throughout the store. Diamon Bethea, a student from Trenton, expressed what her favorite aspect of Chuck’s Place is. “It’s just a good place,” she said. “You can learn a lot of different skills, and then learn them with different kids with different abilities to do different things.”

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

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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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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.

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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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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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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.

PRINCETON JCT. PRINCETON PRINCETON JCT. JCT. PRINCETON after/before JCT. after/before after/before PRINCETON care care care after/before

8–19 JCT. grades 4–9 care 9 am–3 pm after/before grades care come sing 4–9 with comeus, sing take with musical us, take theater musical classes, theater classes, come sing us, take classes, learn the ukelele, learnwith the play ukelele, fun games, play musical fun make games, newtheater friends, make new friends, come sing with us, take musical theater classes, and jam for and your jam buddies for your (okay, buddies mom (okay, and dad mom too) and dad too) learn the ukelele, play fun games, make new learn the ukelele, play fun games, make new friends,friends, atyour theyour end of at the week end of mom themom week and jam buddies (okay, andtoo) dad too) andfor jam for buddies (okay, and dad at theend end of week atus, the ofthe the week come sing with take musical theaterhome classes, of home of

learn the ukelele, play fun games, make newGirlchoir friends, Princeton Princeton Girlchoir & home of& Boychoi Princeton Boychoir r and jam for your buddies (okay, momPrinceton andPrinceton dad too) Girlchoir & home of Princeton Boychoir at the end of the week Princeton Girlchoir &

for more information and registration for more information and registration : : for more information and registration:

westrickmusic.org/camp westrickmusic.org/camp westrickmusic.org/camp

register before June 15thdiscount for a $50 before June 15th for a $50 for register more information and registration : discount register before June 15th for a $50 discount

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for more information and registration:

Princeton Boychoir

home of Princeton Girlchoir & Princeton Boychoir

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.

At Rothman Orthopaedics, we are exceptionally specialized. We not only specialize in orthopaedics, each of our physicians only focuses on one area of the body so you can get past pain and be what you were.

RothmanOrtho.com/Capital | 609.900.2858

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

FRIENDS

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

Campers & Staff from Around the Globe - Financial Assis

information@campmason.org 908-362-8217 information@campmason.org information@campmason.org 908-362-8217 908-362-8217 information@campmason.org

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

THE BEST TIME TO ADVANCE IN

Math

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

not a summer job...

a summer

experience

leadership skills

the sun n i s r o o t ou

OUTDOORS + SCREEN FREE! LIMITED AVAILABILITY • Awesome Counselors • Daily Spirit Events • Bus Transportation • 60+ Activities Ran Successfully in Summers ‘20 + ‘21 LibertyLakeDayCamp.com • 609.499.7820

APPLY TODAY!

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!

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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

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20SIX09 | March 2022

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

PuzzleJunc

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Community News Service 3/22

PuzzleJunction.com

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

35 38

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4 3 3 4 54 75 17 81 98 2 9 6

4 2 2 1 1 8 5 8 9 5 7 9 6 7 3 6 3

1 1 6 76 27 92 59 35 8 3 4

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9 2 8 9 2 8 5 7 2 8 3 54 3 2 9 36 6 3 8 93 4 6 1 82 1 4 6 15 7 4 9 1 6 5 7 1

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6 1 9 5 4 7 8 3 2

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Community We Buy Old Books, Rare Books News Service 3/22 V-Easy Sudoku

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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

4 2 1 8 5 9 7 6 3

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

9 8 2 3 6 4 1 7 5

2 5 3 9 8 1 6 4 7

8 7 4 6 3 2 5 9 1

6 1 9 5 4 7 8 3 2

I R A D E

V O W E D

E E L S

L O O N

O T T O

S A S S

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

extremely patient, sweet, articulate, and friendly. My son has been struggling in math and Anne has made my son be confident in math again.” Call Anne at 609-802-9121 for more information. Reading tutor will teach your child aged 5-10 to read, or to read better—with fun and care. Vocabulary, phonics, read aloud, and inventive writing are combined to reveal the code of print communication in English. Miss Angel songcatcher1438@aol.com; 609-421-5956. SERVICES LEGAL SERVICES - Wills, Power of Attorney, Real Estate, Federal and NJ Taxes, Education Law. House calls available. Bruce Cooke, Esq. 609-799-4674. F,D,Mason Contractor, Over 30 years of experience. Brick, Block, Stone, Concrete. No job too large or small. Fully Insured and Licensed. Free Estimates 908-385-5701 Lic#13VH05475900. Are you single? Try us first! We are an enjoyable alternative to online dating. Sweet Beginnings Matchmaker, 215-539-2894, www.sweetbeginnings.info. WANTED TO BUY Wanted: Baseball, football, basketball, hockey. Cards, autographs, photos, memorabilia. Highest cash prices paid! Licensed corporation, will travel. 4thelovofcards, 908-5960976. allstar115@verizon. net. WANTED- QUALITY CAMERAS AND PHOTO EQUIPMENT, FOUNTAIN PENS AND OLDER WATCHES, FAIR PRICES PAID CALL JAY-609-689-9651. Looking to buy old Mysteries, Science Fiction, Children’s Illustrated, Signed books, kids series books (old Hardy boys-Nancy Drew-Judy Bolton- Dana girls, The Happy Hollisters, ect WITH DUSTJACKETS in good shape), old postcards, non-sports cards, good conditioned pre 1975 paperbacks (also Avon,Popular Library,

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

Ryan said that for younger children in the district, coming to Chuck’s Place is like entering the outside community. The students can walk down to Mercer High School, make purchases of their own volition, and learn to behave in public. Students have the ability to earn ‘Mercer Money’ at the intermediate and high schools, a currency that is able to be spent in locations such as Chuck’s Place. Typically rewarded for good behavior, the money gives students an incentive to visit the Wawalike storefront. Since Chuck’s Place is shared throughout the whole district, it’s a resource for everyone, not just those at the high school level, Ryan said. Prior to the constraints of COVID, those who showed great promise were able to work with a job coach in the community at locations such as Red Robin and Walgreens. Two students from Chuck’s Place had made such progress that they were going to begin working at Red Robin at the end of March 2020. Unfortunately, the school closed on March 13, and the pandemic put a halt to the beginnings of their respective careers. “Hopefully, we’ll get back to that, and then also for students who aren’t gonna work in the community, we still work on those behaviors. You need to follow directions, you need to be appropriate, you need to work with other people, you need to sometimes do non-preferred things,” Ryan said. Currently, in place of that experi-

Elijah Cruhigger cooks up some pork roll for a sandwich order at Chuck’s Place. ence, students are given the opportunity to work in the school cafeteria run by Sodexo. There, they work with a completely different staff, not just their fellow students. It is essentially a job, but on campus. “We can monitor and see how successful they are, [and] what support they need,” Ryan continued. By regularly rotating participants in the program through every position, MCSSSD ensures that equal time is divided among the responsibilities for

career, as well as life, readiness. Out of all the jobs available at Chuck’s Place, Nicholas Zoltanski of Hamilton said his personal favorite is washing the dishes. Uchenna Ugorji, also from Hamilton, feels a similar passion for the task. “I like to wash dishes and I like to clean the glasses,” Ugorji said. “I’ve learned to make orders.” While so many of the students enjoy that specific responsibility, Ryan said, one of the main skills they learn is

that regardless of preference, diligent workers must do whatever duty their employers ask of them. The instructor also conveyed that while nonverbal students, those in wheelchairs, and others could not be interviewed for this article, they are all “very capable workers” who enhance the program through their dedication. Mathew Rambo, who lives in East Windsor, has been working at Chuck’s Place since he was a sophomore. His preference is to be at the checkout, always eager to run the cash register. “Chuck’s Place is a really good place to work,” he said. “I also get to do deliveries, too.” Each of the students interviewed said that they would recommend working in Chuck’s Place to someone else, a resounding ‘yes’ or ‘absolutely’ part of their feedback. In episode 9 of The Superintendent’s Corner, a YouTube series from MCSSSD that features Interim Assistant Superintendent Brian Bittings and Interim Superintendent Dr. James Fazzone, Ryan said that Chuck’s Place is trying to bounce back from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. “[The students] learn to work with other people, they learn to build their endurance and be able to work for longer periods of time, all those things that you need to be successful in the world, they learn at Chuck’s Place,” Ryan insisted in the video. “Nothing that happens in Chuck’s Place happens without the students. If the students can’t do it, it does not get done.”

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Sports

North’s Johnson to be honored at scholar-leader-athlete dinner By Rich Fisher

Things haven’t been entirely easy for Shane Johnson throughout his high school football career, but he sure made it look that way. He had a phenomenal sophomore season at quarterback for the West Windsor-Plainsboro co-op football team, but when the district shut down athletics last year due to COVID 19 he transferred from WW-P North to Notre Dame to continue being able to play football and lacrosse. Johnson shared time with freshman A.J. Surace, who has emerged as one of Mercer’s top quarterbacks, and also enjoyed playing at various other spots on the field. When WW-P reinstated athletics, Shane went home to play with his lifelong friends as a senior. It was a lot to adapt to from one year to the next, and through it all, Johnson’s performance on the field and in the classroom never faltered. It’s for that reason that Shane is the West Windsor-Plainsboro honoree at this year’s 60th Annual George Wah Scholar-Leader-Athlete Dinner, sponsored by the Delaware Valley Chapter of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame. The banquet is at the Princeton Marriott March 13. Tickets are available until March 5 by calling Ron at 609-731-6610. Johnson will receive a $1,000 scholarship and is also eligible for three other scholarships worth up to $5,000 that will be announced the night of the dinner. “It’s a great honor,” Shane said. “Looking at the past winners of the award, there are some very well respected names on that list, and I’m just happy to be in the same company as guys like that.”

High School North senior Shane Johnson, pictured above with the ball in a game against Ewing, is the West WindsorPlainsboro honoree at this year’s 60th Annual George Wah Scholar-Leader-Athlete Dinner As a WW-P sophomore, Johnson utilized some dynamic receivers to throw for 1,953 yards and 26 touchdowns. At Notre Dame, he completed 34 passes for 532 yards and six touchdowns and also caught five passes for 76 yards. Upon returning this year, Shane 1173 yards and nine touchdowns and ran for 583 yards and six TDs. Defensively, he led WW-P in tackles with 61, had a fumble recovery and returned an interception for a touchdown. “Shane was our top performer on both offense and defense,” said coach Bill Furlong, who feels Johnson is the

best leader he has ever coached. “He was like having a coach on the field for the other players. Shane not only knew his assignment, but was often helping his teammates because he had a way of seeing the big picture and understanding the concept of ‘team.’ He knew everybody’s job and was an excellent communicator.” Along with being an excellent listener. “He was very coachable,” Furlong said. “He would ask questions if there was anything that was unclear and once he was told what to do, his job

was done.” While jumping back and forth from schools and excelling on the gridiron, Johnson maintained his academic excellence without missing a beat. In his three years at WWPN Shane has a weighted GPA of 4.5, and in his year at Notre Dame his GPA was 96.4 out of 100. Johnson knew how to make the best out of his brief sojourn to ND. “It definitely wasn’t easy going to a new school as a junior, but it ended up being a great experience,” he said. “It was awesome meeting some of my

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best friends at Notre Dame, and we the football season can take their toll still hang out all the time even though physically and mentally, Shane never complained or made excuses. He has I’m back at West Windsor. “Academically, it was a more dif- an understated self-confidence but he ficult adjustment due to the COVID never displays arrogance.” As to the secret of balancing the measures in place, making the classroom a much less engaging environ- classroom with the athletic field, Johnment. However, I did get to know son credits his family for learning how some awesome teachers, and I had a to budget his time. “My parents played a huge role positive experience academically.” It’s about more than just good in making me into the best student grades for Johnson. He has volun- I could be,” he said. “They always teered as a Pop Warner football coach. drilled into me that school comes He joined Notre Dame’s Catholic Ath- before sports. “On top of that, my older brother letes for Christ organization and collected for Toys for Tots while mak- Luke has always been a huge influence on me, pushing me ing meals for the needy. to my limits on the field He also volunteered for and in the classroom. Take Two at ND and was Luke’s unmatched selected to lead tours for toughness, leadership, incoming transfer stuand work ethic have dents and parents. At shaped me into a better WW-PN he is part of the version of myself.” National Merit ScholarAnd while Johnson ship Program as a Comhas mastered it all in mended Student. high school, he realizes He displays the same things only get more qualities in an academic daunting next year. setting as he does on the “It’s definitely going gridiron. to be a challenge to “Shane is ambitious refine my time manageand conscientious,” Johnson ment skills between a North math teacher college academic workArdie Allen said. “He is also a person that will give of his time load and college football,” he said. to help others in class with difficult “I’m headed to Vermont to play foottopics or concepts. Shane is able to ball at Middlebury. The school is a learn these concepts, communicate great fit academically and athletically, his understanding, and apply them in and I can’t wait to get to work.” Furlong feels if Johnson continues appropriate situations. He has easily to do what he did in high school, he become a leader in my classroom.” Johnson does so leading by exam- will be just fine. “Shane has the same work ethic ple, as he is able to handle a huge amount of responsibilities from all dif- in the classroom that he has on the ferent areas without ever looking for athletic field,” the coach said. “He is always giving his best effort and lookexcuses not to get things done. “Shane is a complete student with ing for ways to challenge and improve a wonderful personality,” Allen said. himself. As a two-sport athlete, it can “His performance in the classroom is be challenging to meet the demands even more impressive when you real- of the classroom in a consistent way, ize the amount of time he spent being but Shane has done it for four years.” And he will be rightfully awarded a leader on the football fields or our district. Even though the demands of for it this month. Tony Tyan, DMD

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12The News | March 2022

Travel Talk with Caryn and Aron Vacay-Zen

Everyone is under stress and these days it seems our lives have more stress than ever. Studies have shown that even short vacation getaways can reduce depression, anxiety and improve mood due to a reduction of cortisol levels. Planning one of these wellness-centered vacations are sure to help you reach nirvana. MACHU PICCHU. Cleanse your chakras in one of the most magnificent settings in South America. See the sunrise over Machu Picchu and hike to the Sun Gate, the ancient entrance used by the Incas. Once you see it, you’ll understand why it is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Bathe in its natural springs and connect to your spirituality while walking through ancient temple remains and holy houses. Plus, a vacation booked with us makes any adventure stress-free. From arranging the right hotels and seamless transportation, to included sightseeing and your own Local Host®, who is always there to point you in the right direction, everything you need is in an all-inone package. AQUAMAR Spa. The new Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center on Oceania Cruises has been thoughtfully designed to enhance your experience with a variety of curated wellness encounters. Or make it a full Zen trip with Wellness Discovery Tours by Aquamar. From ancient mineral baths outside of Rome to a traditional teahouse in Myanmar, these tours offer exclusive excursions ashore that reveal timeless wellness practices of locales around the world. And between visits to the spas, enjoy your premium cruise experience. THE BODYHOLIDAY in St. Lucia. BodyHoliday is one of the world’s best spas, known for its unique approach to wellbeing with its motto “Give us your body for a week and we’ll give you back your mind.” The resort provides a great beach vacation, supported by luxurious rooms and delicious cuisine, designed to be the most relaxing and

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Princeton Basin—A lost canal community PAUL LIGETI

WEST WINDSOR CHRONICLES

Each month, the Historical Society of West Windsor—a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and promoting local history—publishes a column covering our town’s rich heritage. This article explores a historic West Windsor/ Princeton community along the Delaware & Raritan Canal. Also—West Windsor turned 225 years old this Feb. 9! The Historical Society is overseeing an ongoing year of projects/events in commemoration— for more info, visit westwindsorhistory. com/year-225.

Origins

Paddle a canoe down the Delaware & Raritan Canal and you’ll enjoy scenic tranquility and nature. However, long ago, a different setting—one of bustling commercial activity—reigned supreme. The canal was opened in 1834 as a commercial corridor that let cargo-laden barges travel quickly between Bordentown and New Brunswick. Five years later, the Camden & Amboy Rail Road & Transportation Company laid tracks along the eastern bank of the canal, connecting Trenton to New Brunswick. At Alexander Road, a barge/train stop called “Princeton Basin” (AKA “Canal

Princeton Basin hotel lithograph courtesy of Scott Parry, purchased from Gray’s Watercolors, made by the College Watercolor Group in Ringoes. Basin”) appeared, featuring a railroad station and two turning basins—ponds that let barges load/unload cargo, moor for the night, and reverse course. The area soon grew as a commercial and industrial hub.

erected between 1839 and 1849, this was a large wooden building sitting at 2 Canal Road in West Windsor, catering largely to barge workers and travelers. Prior to the Civil War, a “Mr. Skilman” reputedly managed the hotel. John L. Corlies operated it in the 1870s and ‘80s. A Thriving Community In 1874, Solomon Krauskopf, a PrinceAn early Princeton Basin icon was the ton jeweler, was murdered in Princeton old Steamboat/Railroad Hotel. Possibly Basin, and Corlies was theorized to be a

possible culprit, but the case was never solved. A succession of owners operated the hotel in the ensuing decades. During the 1930s, the building was remodeled as a tavern, but a license was refused. It was then occupied as a residence for many years until the passing of its last owner, Della Jenkins. In 1992, the decrepit building was demolished, and a new house built on the site. Princeton Basin’s other businesses reflected its industrial identity. J. Van Doren sold Schuylkill coal and plaster in the 1830s. He also owned two store houses (one for packing pork), two smoke-houses (also for pork), an icehouse, a residence, and a hay house in 1839. Around the same time, seminal Princeton architect Charles Steadman owned a lumber yard here. John Grant sold building stone in the 1850s. Marshal Voorhees ran a steam-powered sawmill concurrently. And Aaron L. Green sold doors, sashes, blinds, shutters, and moldings “at Trenton prices” for many years, also using a steam mill to cut wood. One of the busiest commercial enterprises was a general store run by Montgomery Scott Berrien. He provided various wares, included hay, straw, fertilizer, grass seed, lath, brick, lime, cement, hair, and much more Many more establishments existed over the decades, often supplying labor and materials for local construction. See CHRONICLES, Page 14

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CHRONICLES cont. from Page 13 In 1875, Princeton Basin contained a hotel, a general store, a hay press, an Episcopal chapel, a lumber yard, a railroad station, a bridge tender’s house, two turning basins, a sash factory, and over 3 dozen residences. Hundreds of barges passed through each day, paying a toll to have the bridge-tender open a “swing bridge.”

Decline

However, following the 1860s-era realignment of the railroad line to the present-day Northeast Corridor, Princeton Basin began to decline dramatically as businesses shuttered their doors or moved elsewhere. No longer were canal and rail working symbiotically—now, they were direct competitors—and rail would win. The only 1800s-era industry said to survive into the 1900s was a bottling plant managed by Martin Vandenberg from 1908 to 1911. Around 1900, the New Jersey Shirt and Waist Company was established to manufacture clothing. By the late 1800s, the community had declined from a bustling industrial center to arguably West Windsor’s (and perhaps Princeton’s) seediest neighborhood. Especially following the 1899 murder of a local named Samuel Crusen in a drunken quarrel, a public movement to set fire to “Bedbug Row” grew (but never followed through). About fifteen murders had reputedly occurred in the twelve years prior. Fights, assaults, robberies, and news articles condemning the neighborhood were common.

Lottie B barge in front of the Princeton Basin hotel. The Delaware and Raritan Canal’s last year of operation was 1932. Seven years later, the Works Progress Administration’s Federal Writers Project produced “Old Princeton’s Neighbor’s.” It described Princeton Basin as having 18 residences, a trucking business, and junk yard.

History and legacy

One interesting note in Old Princeton’s Neighbors is its claim that willow trees found at Princeton Basin were grown from twigs broken off trees overhanging Napoleon Bonaparte’s grave

on the island of Saint Helena. They were reputedly planted in Princeton Basin around 1840, and cuttings from them were further planted around Princeton University’s campus. Further research is needed to corroborate this story. Although Princeton Basin as a community died out decades ago, it wasn’t entirely abandoned. In 1955, an influential African American painter named Rex Goreleigh established a “Studio-onthe-Canal” at 8-10 Canal Road, where he taught generations of artists for the next 23 years. His house stood alongside several others on either side of the canal.

In 1982, the Delaware & Raritan Canal commission noted that little remained next to the algae and weed-choked turning basin and canal: “Gone are the house and office of the superintendent of the canal, the house and station for the bridgetender, and the Camden and Amboy Railroad tracks, railroad depot and agent’s house … Gone too are all signs of the shops, mills and factories that once crowded around the intersection of the canal, and the railroad and Alexander Road.” There are only two buildings left standing in West Windsor that hearken back to the mid-1800s golden age of the canal; both are private residences. On the Princeton side are several more houses along Basin Street, as well as the northern turning basin (now a canoe/ kayak rental business). And the metal Dinky Line bridge still stands, although it no longer rotates as it once did to allow taller barges through. And, of course, the Delaware & Raritan Canal remains. Following years of efforts through the mid-late 1900s, it is now a popular recreational area and state park. It is here that you can experience both the tranquility of nature and, if you daydream vividly enough, the echoes of a more prosperous age for the Princeton Basin. To contact, donate to, or volunteer for the Historical Society and explore more WW history, visit westwindsorhistory. com. We are also on social media—search “@SchenckFarmstead” on Facebook and Instagram. Email us at westwindsorhistory@gmail.com

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