December 2018
Lindsay Petropoulos Choosing Your Own Happy
Cover photo by Benoit Cortet A community magazine serving the residents of Hopewell Township, Pennington Borough and Hopewell Borough
Expert Contributors
Home Design and Construction A&E Home Design and Construction
Lawn and Landscaping Cutting Edge Lawn and Landscaping, LLC
Dermatology Windsor Dermatology
Real Estate Gloria Nilson & Co. Real Estate
Greg Fontaine – Owner 2479 Pennington Rd, Pennington, NJ I 609-737-4425 greg.aeconstruction@gmail.com I AEconstructionNJ.com
Alexa Hetzel, Board Certified Physician Assistant 59 One Mile Road Ext., East Windsor, NJ I 609-443-0424 windsordermatology.com I #freezefat
Financial Advisor Knox Grove Financial LLC.
Christina Nash – President & CEO 23 Route 31 North, Suite B10, Pennington, NJ I 609-216-7440 Christina@knoxgrove.com I knoxgrovefinancial.com
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Nick Pirone - Owner 1652 Reed Road, Pennington, NJ I 609-356-3465 nick@ce.land I ce.land.com
Hopewell Valley 800 Denow Road, Suite N, Pennington, NJ I 609-737-9100 glorianilson.com
Our sponsor advertisers bring Hopewell Valley Neighbors to you. Be sure to thank them by supporting their businesses. They are experts at what they do. Please tell them you saw their ad in Hopewell Valley Neighbors. To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Hopewell Valley Neighbors publisher: Rachel Donington: 609-462-6786 rdonington@bestversionmedia.com.
December 2018
Publisher’s Letter
Dear Residents, Publisher: Rachel Donington rdonington@bestversionmedia.com Content Coordinator: Catherine Bialkowski cbialkowski@bestversionmedia.com
I
t is so hard to believe we are approaching the end of 2018. As the holidays get closer, I am reminded how grateful I am for the things I hold dear to my heart—my family, friends, and our wonderful community of Hopewell Valley.
With the end of another year comes an opportunity to reflect on what 2018 looked like for each of us, what we may have learned. In this month’s feature, Lindsay Petropoulos shares her own story of the things she’s learned not only this year, but throughout her journey as the new owner of Twirl Toy Shop in downtown Pennington. She is a role model for her daughters; and she reminds us of what people can do, and what they can desire, and all the things that can shape one’s life. So let this December be a time for us all to look back on our years, what we’ve learned, and the things we take with us that we will remember for many years to come.
Designer: Dale Ver Voort Contributing Photographer: Benoit Cortet www.benoitcortet.com Phone: 917-597-6297 benoit@benoitcortet.com
Happy Holidays! Publisher: Rachel Donington, 609-462-6786
Contributing Writers: Mary Galioto, Kenneth Marples, Lisa Wolff Advertising Contact: Rachel Donington Phone: 609-462-6786 rdonington@bestversionmedia.com Feedback/Ideas/Submissions Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are 25th of each month. Go to www. bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to rdonington@bestversionmedia.com. Content Submission Deadlines: Content Due: Edition Date: November 25............................ January December 25.......................... February January 25....................................March February 25.................................... April March 25..........................................May April 25...........................................June May 25............................................. July June 25....................................... August July 25.................................. September August 25.................................October September 25 ����������������������November October 25........................... December Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. ©2018 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Hopewell Valley Neighbors publisher Rachel Donington: 609-462-6786 rdonington@bestversionmedia.com. Hopewell Valley Neighbors
I
often find myself feeling as though the holiday season creeps up on me. One day, it’s the beginning of fall, the leaves just starting to turn, and then suddenly it’s New Year’s Eve, in the blink of an eye. When time seems to go by this fast, it can be hard to pause and enjoy the moment. This month, the last month of the year, perhaps we can all benefit from stepping back from the chaos of everyday life and just being, forgetting for a few minutes the stress of the season. There’s so much to see, if you simply look around. I hope these stories will act as reminders.
Content Coordinator: Catherine Bialkowski
HopewellValley NEIGHBORS
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Meet Violetta and Sergio A Slice of Southern in Hopewell Valley Cover photo by Benoit
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Architect since 1996 Building Types Include: Single Family Residences Locally, at Beach and Mountains Offices, Restaurants, Retail and Historic Buildings New Buildings and Renovations 150 + Built Projects in NJ PO Box 250 Sergeantsville, NJ 08557 609-902-8840 l gary.GMArchitects@gmail.com
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Providing Landscape Design, Installation and Maintenance to Pennington NJ and the surrounding towns since 2006…
HOPEWELL’s Premier Lawn and Landscaping Company www.ce.land 4
December 2018
In the Arts
Hopewell Valley Arts Council News Photos submitted by Mary Galioto | Public Relations & Media Coordinator, Hopewell Valley Arts Counci
Join the Hopewell Valley Arts Council at the the Pennington Business & Professionals Association at the Annual Pennington Holiday Walk on December 7 from 6-9 p.m. in downtown Pennington. The HV Arts Council will be featuring the ice carving skills of John Goeke, chef at the Hopewell Valley Golf & County Club, and boys and girls jazz/hip-hop classes from The Pennington Studio will perform “Ice Ice Baby” at 7:30 p.m. (Photo credit: Carol Lipson)
Hopewell Valley Arts Council and the Arts and Healing Committee at Capital Health is pleased to announce Joy in the Everyday, a Arts Council-members exhibit on public display at the Investors Bank Art & Healing Gallery at Capital Health-Hopewell this winter. An opening reception will be held on January 10, 2019, from 6-7:30pm, to celebrate the exhibit and for the change to meet some of the artists. The show will be up from November 29, 2018 until March 25, 2019. (Artwork: Janet Purcell, “And the Angels Sing”)
Hopewell Valley Arts Council hosted its popular and creative 4th Annual Amazing Pumpkin Carve from October 11-15, 2018 at Woolsey Park in Titusville, NJ. Matt Derby took this year’s title for Best in Show for his creation, “Blood Sucker.”
Toast the Season in Style. Book your Holiday Party Today
Visit us at either of our two locations in Hopewell Valley! 938 Bear Tavern Rd., Ewing 609-493-4495 M-TH 7am-10pm Fri-Sat 7am-11pm • Sun 7am-10pm
Hopewell Valley Neighbors
Both locations offer full bar with triple 5 happy hour: 5 hours per day, $5 food, $5 drinks.
7 Tree Farm Rd ., Pennington 609-303-0625 M-TH 11:30am-9pm Fri-Sat 11:30am-10pm • Sun 4-9pm
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AMERICA’S FARM DISTILLERY OF THE YEAR 2018 American Distilling Institute (ADI)
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www.SourlandSpirits.com (609) 333-8575 Learn more at SourlandSpirits.com. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, & Follow us at @SourlandSpirits • 130 Hopewell-Rocky Hill Rd., Hopewell, NJ 08525
Blackwell Memorial Home
Happy holidays from our family to yours
21 North Main Street, Pennington, NJ 08534
(609) 737-2900
www.blackwellmh.com blackwellmem@verizon.net
Elizabeth Blackwell Davis Owner / Lic. Director NJ #2475
Kevin R. Latham
Manager / Lic. Director NJ #4625 / PA #000714
Family Service Since 1881 • 2015 Accepted as an Early Decision Candidate toContinuous Farleigh Dickinson University
We offer full service funerals, cremations and pre-arrangements.
“I have faith, stubbornness and an education from The LewisUniversity School that arleigh Dickinson give me confidence.” Lewis School
Inductee Andrew
McTigue
Fairleigh Dickinson University Class of 2020 CrossThe Country Teamof Princeton, Lewis School 2011- 2016
Athletic Awards Banquet
· Member of the Junior Advisory Board, Rochester New York, 1999-2018 • 2016 Honors College Preparatory Graduate ofAchievement The Lewis School
· Partner at ITX Corporation, a strategic technology firm; President of Multiply IT, ITX
Corporation’s product development group, 2009-2018 • 2017 The Lewis School of Princeton Honor Society Inductee
· Recognized as “A Visionary Entrepreneur who builds simple, useful technology” - the
• 2017 Dean’s List at Fairleigh Dickinson University Rochester Business Journal • 2017 Most Valuable Player
“I have faith, s and an educa The Lewis Sc give me con
· Acknowledged for “executive leadership, innovation and expertise in corporate cultures fordevelopment Fairleighcombining Dickinson Cross Country Team IT design and business growth strategies”
· Creative Problem Solving Institute - Certified Facilitator and “groundbreaking business leader” • 2017 Honored Alumni Speaker, The Lewis School Athletic Awards Banquet who is as strategic consultant to top companies here and abroad · Co-founderto andFairleigh Board Chairman of Potential University Point, LLC where he continues to develop • Awarded a Full FourYear Scholarship Dickinson award winning software to help companies grow high-performance work places, 2005-2018 Completed the MIT Entrepreneurial Masters Program as one of sixty executives worldwide • Accepted to all of his top ten· colleges
Andrew M
Fairleigh Dickinso Class of The Lewis School 2011- 20
hool who were invited to participate. Dickinson University alize · CEO and Co-founder of Auragen Communications Inc./Catalyst Direct named one of INC “The Lewis School ot be “When I first came to Lewis, I was frustrated by500 thefastest demands ofcompanies, auditory 1995-2006 processing in a Magazine’s growing Fred Beer helped me to realize oach lecture situation and by longer written assignments, research and managing the course load that I should not be University of Rochester, Class of 1995 fnauditory School was amazingly building back that got way. processing in a in reading. I avoided writing whenever“Lewis I could. However, the worksupportive ethic andinteamwork thatthat confidence afraid to approach nd managing the course load Westminster School Alumnus, Class of 1991 crushed from me. Lewis and my parents provided the support for me to know that ing success in my own way. I learned at Lewis have carried me through as a successful college athlete. I know that the ork ethic and teamwork that Lewis School Alumnus, 1988 I could be successful. Lewis taught me, with my parents support, that I hadBefore greatattending ought ege athlete. I know that the lessons I learned from my teachers and coaches The stay Iwith meadapt in athletics strengthsat and if ILewis focusedSchool on my will strengths could for my weaknesses. Lewis, It I never thought that it chool will stay with me athletics “I in don’t know where and I’d bein today withoutsuccesses The Lewisyet School. personal to come.”didn’t mater that I was a really slow reader – I developed great skills atabout listening success or that it sily, Being there taught me to work hard and to value and would come easily, in class and taking notes. I learned how to work hard and get good grades. These ll.” respect learning differences. I discovered that seeing and if it came at all.” learning things differently gave me a unique perspective that is vital not only in my career but also in my life.”
skills have stayed with me to today.” Fred Beer
Where education champions the gifts of learning differently, and the value of thinking outside of the box Contact 609-924-8120 53 Bayard Lane, Princeton NJ Lewisschool.org
chool.org
53 Bayard Ln, Princeton, NJ 08540 | (609) 924 -8120 | www.lewisschool.org 6
53 Bayard December 2018
Expert Contributor
Windsor Dermatology Botox and Fillers 101 Alexa Hetzel, Board Certified Physician Assistant
N
o patient likes to hear the “O” word: old. With continued pressure to stay young and look our best day in and day out, time is not on our side. With advances in cosmetic procedures, however, the ability to defy fine lines and wrinkles has become popular and more affordable for patients. When a patient comes to me requesting a cosmetic consultation for Botox and fillers, I find that the most important piece of education I can give them is about the different products offered and where on the face they are used. Botox is a substance called onabotulinumtoxin A1 which affects certain cells in our body that control movement. The objective of injecting Botox into an area is to temporarily relax a muscle that is overactive. When we allow the muscle to relax it reduces the appearance of the lines. The specific lines that Botox helps soften are those seen on the forehead, between the eyebrows (glabella) and on the outside of the eyes (crows feet). I always say “Botox above the eyes and fillers below the eyes”. What is also important to know is that Botox usually lasts about three to six months. When we are young, our faces are an inverted triangle, with higher fat pads and thinner tapering chins. As we begin to age the natural fat that we have by our cheeks begins to sink. This creates a look of a right side up triangle, thinner cheeks and fullers jaw lines. The term fillers is a broad umbrella statement which applies to multiple different types of materials that can be used. The goal with fillers is exactly what the name eludes to--filling an area where volume has been lost. Although fillers cannot replace a facelift, there are ways to use fillers to see optimal results without having to go under the knife. With thicker grade fillers we are able to create more fullness under the eyes and in the cheeks to showcase a lifting effect. There are finer grades of fillers that can plump the lips as well as reduce fine
Hopewell Valley Neighbors
line around the mouth. If it’s below the eyes and there is a loss of volume there are numerous different options from which to choose. What is important to know about fillers is that they are FDA-approved to last from 12 to 18 months. The aging process is a natural one but we still aim to look our best. Botox and fillers allow my patients to continue to look like themselves, but with the look of a softer face. What I also make sure to reiterate to my patients is that there is no down time. Patients can drive after the procedure and can go back to work so all of these procedures can be done over a lunch break--how easy is that! To schedule a consultation at Windsor Dermatology call us at 609-443-4500.
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Resident Feature
”We’re always searching for new ways to stand out. I love the idea of a challenge.” – Lindsay 8
December 2018
Resident Feature
Lindsay Petropoulos Choosing Your Own Happy By Catherine Bialkowski
I Photos by Benoit Cortet
“We have to choose our own happy.” That’s something Lindsay Petropoulos lives by, something she tells her daughters frequently. Throughout Lindsay’s life, she’s learned that the things we decide to do are just that—our own decisions. There’s no right or wrong path to happiness, she says. Lindsay, a mother of three, a wife, and new owner of Twirl Toy Shop on North Main Street in Pennington, began her professional career as a business marketing major in college, going to work for the manufacturing company DeWalt after graduation, selling power tools. “It was certainly not what I imagined,” says Lindsay, laughing, “a 21-year-old female selling power tools.” But for Lindsay, it was a wonderful challenge, and the company she worked for until the birth of her first daughter, Lila. When Lindsay was pregnant, she and her husband, Ian, decided it was time for her to take a step back from the corporate lifestyle and take some time off not only to focus on being a mom but also because her career at DeWalt was not going in the direction she’d hoped. The timing worked out. “It was a decision I made consciously, to leave my job,” says Lindsay. “It was what I needed to do at that point in my life.” Originally, Lindsay planned to take only six months off from work. But, she says, “I just got into the hamster wheel of life.” Six months turned into a decade. Lindsay and Ian had two more daughters, Ella and Ava, and Lindsay threw herself into being a stay-at-home parent. She also took the opportunity during that time to engage in charity work. But all the while, she felt that a professional fulfillment was missing from her life. “When you give up your job to become a mom and you’re at home all the time, you miss work,” says Lindsay, expressing something that isn’t often talked about. Lindsay knew she had to make a change shortly before “take your child to work day” a few years ago, when Lila was talking to her about spending the day with Ian. “I can’t go to work with you, Mom,” she said. “I would just stay at home and fold laundry.” Although Lila meant nothing by this, Lindsay realized something: her daughters, who hadn’t, of course, known her during her career at DeWalt, saw her only as “Mom.” “Being a mother to daughters is really important,” says Lindsay. “But it doesn’t one hundred percent define all of who I am.” She decided she needed to help them see her as more than just “Mom.” Shortly after, in 2017, the previous owners of Twirl Toy Shop announced that the store was closing its doors forever. Lindsay says she saw this as the perfect opportunity to jump back into her own professional career. She and her family could not imagine North Main Street, Pennington, without the quaint little toy shop, and she’d been on the lookout for an opportunity like this one for a while. Soon, after a meeting with the previous owners, she was the proud new owner of a local store. That’s not to say getting back into working was seamless for Lindsay. “It’s been a learning curve from day one,” she says. “Sometimes you have to mess up and try again.” That’s something she wants to show her daughters by example. Owning a toy shop in today’s world is not easy. There are websites like Amazon, where consumers can buy almost any toy they may imagine with a click of a button. But on websites, there is no personal touch. “Online competition is really tough,” Lindsay admits. “We’re always searching for new ways to stand out. I love the idea of a challenge.” Twirl Toy Shop offers a special experience for shoppers you won’t find on Amazon.com or anywhere else—the staff is trained to understand children and their development stages, Hopewell Valley Neighbors
9
Resident Feature and many of the toys are extremely unique. There is a section of STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) toys, and a wideranging baby section stocked with everything from wooden toys to uncommon gifts. Twirl Toy Shop is truly a magical place. Lindsay’s journey as a working woman and as a mom has taught her an important lesson: there’s no right or wrong way to live life. “Having it all” doesn’t have to happen all at once. “As women, it’s important for us to realize that there’s not one way to do it,” says Lindsay. “We have to stop being so hard on ourselves.” Being a parent, while rewarding and wonderful, is a tough journey whether you are a stay-at-home-parent or you have a full-time job. Lindsay has also learned—and wants to impress upon her daughters—that we don’t need to do everything by ourselves, and that asking for help is perfectly normal. “I just need to be the best version of me,” she says. Transitioning from selling power tools, to staying at home with her children, to becoming a local shop owner, Lindsay Petropoulos has learned that there’s not one direct route to a dream life. “We all get way too caught up in this ideal—the ‘right thing,’” says Lindsay. “You can choose your own way. There isn’t one right way to do it.”
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Lindsay’s adventure with Twirl Toy Shop has only just begun; she knows how much more there is to learn, do, and experience. And last year, for the first time, Lila spent the day with her mother for “take your child to work day”—at the toy shop. Please visit Lindsay at Twirl Toy Shop located at 10 North Main Street, in Pennington. This holiday season remember to support our downtown businesses by shopping local. The talented and friendly staff at Twirl Toy Shop will help you select the perfect unique gifts for your children, grandchildren, or friends. And what makes shopping at Twirl even better is that they will beautifully hand wrap each special gift you purchase. Twirl Toy Shop truly is a magical place.
vvv Do you know a neighbor who has a story to share? Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact Rachel Donington at rdonington@bestversionmedia.com.
December 2018
Hopewell Valley Neighbors
11
Real Estate
Hopewell Valley Market Activity
OCTOBER SOLDS - Homes ADDRESS
BEDS
BATHS SOLD PRICE
102 N Main St
3
1
$200,000
16 Old Foundry Rd
3
2.5
$446,990
476 Wash Crossing Penn Rd
3
2
$269,000
10 Bethany Ave
3
2.5
$475,000
196 Hopewell Wertsville Rd
3
2
$272,000
11 Welwyn Ct
4
2.5
$482,000
26 Wrick Ave
3
2
$286,000
58 Chicory Ln
4
2.5
$550,000
47 Woolsey Ct
3
2.5
$300,000
1 Fairway Dr
4
2.5
$605,000
64 Washington St
3
1.5
$315,000
9-11 E Curlis Ave
5
3.5 & .5
$605,000
270 Penn Rocky Hill Rd
4
2.5
$343,350
133 Brandon Rd
5
3
$613,000
101 Tuxford Ct
3
2.5
$348,500
35 Woosamonsa Rd
4
4
$615,000
15 Stanford Rd E
3
2
$357,000
7 Columbia Ave
3
2
$625,000
115 Ingleside Ave
3
1.5
$370,000
3 Fox Run Rd
4
3.5
$640,000
111 Newman Ct
3
2.5
$389,000
136 E Delaware Ave
5
3
$712,500
179 Penn Harbourton Rd
3
1.5
$395,000
10 Alta Vista Dr
4
3.5
$720,000
3 Forrest Blend Dr
4
2.5
$410,000
32 Harbourton Woodsville Rd
5
3.5
$725,000
233 Pleasant Valley Rd
4
1.5
$423,000
10 Timkak Ln
4
2.5 &.5
$737,500
14 Old Foundry Dr
3
2.5
$444,350
15 Baker Way
4
3.5
$740,000
Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in this magazine is separate from any statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.
1 Michael Way I Hopewell Township $789,000
HOPEWELL VALLEY OFFICE 800 Denow Rd, Suite N, Pennington, NJ 08534
609.737.9100 12
December 2018
Recipe Corner
Pomegranate-Champagne Punch By Rachel Donington Here is some holiday cheer from my home to yours: easy and delicious punch you’ll love for any holiday occasion! Makes 12 servings INGREDIENTS • 1/2 cup water
• 1 1/4 cups pomegranate juice
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 large lemon, thinly sliced
• 2 750-ml bottles chilled brut Champagne
• Pomegranate seeds
• 1 1/2 cups white rum
• 1 ice block or ice cubes as needed
• Fresh mint leaves
PREPARATION 1. Bring 1/2 cup water and sugar to boil in small saucepan, stirring until sugar dissolves. Simmer 5 minutes. Cool syrup completely. 2. Combine Champagne, rum, and pomegranate juice in punch bowl. Add enough syrup to sweeten to taste. Mix in lemon slices, pomegranate seeds, and mint leaves. Add ice block to bowl. Share the joy. Here’s making a toast to you—Happy Holidays to all!
.
What’s scarier than a lung screening? Telling your loved ones that you should have gotten one sooner.
Screening for early detection of lung cancer can give you — and your family — peace of mind. If you’ve been smoking a pack of cigarettes a day for the past 20 to 30 years, getting your lungs checked is a scary proposition. But getting a low-dose CT scan to detect the early stages of lung cancer can mean you’re less likely to give your friends and family the worst news of all. An experienced Lung Nurse Navigator will be with you every step of the way. If you qualify, the screening is covered by Medicare and most insurances. Call 609-584-2826 or visit rwjbh.org/hamiltonlungscreening
Let’s beat cancer together.
Hopewell Valley Neighbors
13
Calendar of Events
Hopewell Happenings Every Wednesday at Pennington Public Library English Language Conversation Sessions Bambi Hegedus, professional tutor, leads these relaxed and informal tutoring sessions. Emphasis will be on learning practical phrases. @ Pennington Public Library, 30 North Main Street Time: 10-11am Participants should have some knowledge of English.
Time: 1-4pm For more information, please visit www. hopewellmuseumnj.org.
Story Time with Ms. Kim! @Pennington Public Library Time: 11am Geared for Children Ages 2-4 years.
Mon., December 3 Author Reading and Writing Workshop with Mimi Schwartz Mimi Schwartz’s, When History Is Personal, captures 25 moments in her life, each heightened by the history, politics, and social issues that shaped them. After a short break she invites those interested to stay for a short writing workshop to explore the ways that memoir and history connect in their lives. @ Mercer County Public Library, Hopewell Branch Time: 6-8:30pm Registration requested. Please email hopeprogs@mcl. org to subscribe.
Every Saturday at Mercer County Public Library, Hopewell Branch Gift Wrapping The library will provide wrapping paper, ribbons, and tape. Come wrap your holiday gifts in peace and quiet while supplies last! @ Mercer County Public Library, Hopewell Branch Time: 2-4pm No registration necessary. Sat., December 1 Color Me Calm – Adult Coloring @ Pennington Public Library, 30 North Main Street Coloring books and art supplies available all day. SCORE Princeton: Starting a Home-Based Business Starting a home-based business has unique characteristics and challenges, yet it’s becoming a highly lucrative way to start a business in today’s economy. This workshop discusses the pros, cons and how to’s of running a home-based. @ Mercer County Public Library, Hopewell Branch Time: 10am-12pm Registration requested. Please email hopeprogs@mcl. org to subscribe. Tree Lighting in Hopewell Borough Gather in front of the Volunteer Bandstand, fondly called the gazebo, to sing holiday tunes and watch for Santa to ride into town on an antique fire engine. When he arrives, he asks for the children to help him light the tree. @ Hopewell Fire House Time: 6pm Sun., December 2 Hopewell Public Library Open House The little red library celebrates their love of community, books, reading, and storytelling. @ Hopewell Borough Public Library, at 13 East Broad Street Time: 1-3pm Pop in and say hello. Visit www.redlibrary.org to discover other fun programs and events throughout the year. Hopewell Borough Museum Holiday Tea and Open House Visitors are invited to see period holiday decorations, discover the history of Hopewell, and enjoy cookies and traditional tea served in the downstairs kitchen. @ Hopewell Borough Museum, at 28 East Broad Street
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Sun., December 2 – 10 Hanukkah Hanukkah 2018 begins in the evening of December 2 and ends the in the evening of December 10.
Thurs., December 6 Active Aging Fitness This program is comprised of stretching, balance, posture, flexibility, and strength poses done to music. It also includes some chair yoga. @ Mercer County Public Library, Hopewell Branch Time: 3:30-4:30pm No registration is required. Fri., December 7 National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Taxation University: Business Registration & Reporting Business Income Seminars provided by the Division of Taxation to teach small businesses about different business structures, registering a business in New Jersey and how to report your New Jersey business income. @ Mercer County Public Library, Hopewell Branch Time: 10-11:45am and 1-2:45pm Registration requested. Please email hopeprogs@mcl. org to subscribe. Reindeer Lane Children’s Holiday Gift Shop Volunteers guide children with gift making for their family and friends while live music plays, elves dance, and jolly Santa pops in to say “hello-ho-ho.” @ Train Station, Hopewell Borough Time: 3-7pm For more information, contact reindeerlane. hopewell@gmail.com. Sat., December 8 Winter Bird Walk: The Watershed Institute Join Education Director Jeff Hoagland on a hike of the Watershed Reserve in search of wintering birds. @ The Watershed Institute, 31 Titus Mill Road, Pennington Free event for ages 12 and up. Bring binoculars and dress for possibly muddy or snowy walking conditions. Co-sponsored by Washington Crossing Audubon Society. Fri., December 14 Elder Investment Fraud & Preparing for Retirement
The New Jersey Bureau of Securities presents a lecture about learning to spot fraudulent investment activities and how to prepare for retirement. @ Mercer County Public Library, Hopewell Branch Time: 10-11am Registration requested. Please email hopeprogs@mcl. org to subscribe. Sat., December 15 Holiday Light Competition Register December 12. Decorate by December 15. Vote by December 23. Winners announced December 24. @ Hopewell Borough For more information contact hopewellevents@gmail. com. Fri., December 21 Early Dismissal @ Hopewell Valley Regional Schools Communities of Light During the winter solstice, candles line the streets of central New Jersey – a powerful symbol of hope for those impacted by domestic violence. 100% of luminary kit sales go to Womanspace for programming. Join in the effort to spread the message that Peace Begins at Home. Live Nativity For almost half a century, for 4 consecutive nights before Christmas Day, the five Hopewell Borough churches participate in the live staging with the scene of the historic nativity. @ on the lawn of the Calvary Baptist Church, at 3 East Broad Street Time: Sundown each night Carolers also roam the streets on these nights. Mon., December 24 Christmas Eve Mon., December 24 – December 31 Winter Break @ Hopewell Valley Regional Schools Tues., December 25 Christmas Day Merry Christmas! Wed., December 26 Kwanzaa Mon., December 31 New Year’s Eve
Let us help promote your local community event! Please join our Hopewell Happenings Page by sending us your Event Listing. Open to all Hopewell Valley organizations, clubs and local businesses. You can email your submissions to rdonington@ bestversionmedia.com.
December 2018
The Wilson Family provides affordable dignified services to the families of Hopewell Valley since 1960.
2560 Pennington Road, Pennington, NJ www.WilsonApple.com
Wilson-Apple Funeral Home Robert A Wilson, Owner NJ Lic # 2520
609-737-1498 Wilson-Apple Funeral Home
R.Asher Wilson, Manager NJ Lic # 3823/Pa Lic # FD-000766
SALES & SERVICE OIL CHANGES TIRES SUSPENSION BRAKES AIR • COMPUTER DIAGNOSTICS
• • • • •
Mercedes Benz Audi / VW BMW
Your German vehicle specialist. We service all makes and models. Call for an appointment today.
609-737-1498 Cromwell-Immordino Memorial Home Joseph A. Immordino, Jr., Manager NJ Lic # 4231
609-466-0233 Timothy F. Reeg Funeral Director
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609-392-1039
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Hopewell Valley Neighbors
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Resident Submitted
A Note of Thanks From the Hopewell Business Association By Janice Schroeder | President, Hopewell Business Association
A
fter nearly 50 years of advocating for the local community among businesses within Hopewell Borough, the Hopewell Business Association (HBA) will cease operations as of December 31, 2018.
working with the Hopewell Borough Administration and Borough Council to restrict parking and reduce speed limits to keep patrons, families and friends safe while they were out and about shopping, dining, or taking in a show.
The organization has experienced a steady decline in membership, with the largest drop occurring over the last ten years. The final meeting of the group will be held on December 20, 2018, at 7pm at the Hopewell Bistro. The agenda will be less of a meeting and more of a celebration of the many accomplishments and camaraderie members have shared throughout the years.
• Hopewell Harvest Fair: This wonderful community event was originally known as Fireman’s Day, and then became Community Day in the late 1960’s when it was run by the HBA. Its original location was the “field” that once existed where the Hopewell Village Square now stands. Hopewell Friends took over the event in 1986 and renamed it the Hopewell Harvest Fair.
A few of the most memorable HBA contributions to the community include: • Hopewell Valley Central High School Scholarship Program: Established in the late 1970s in memory of Don Allen, the HBA has awarded two seniors with $500 scholarships to help further their educational goals each May, ahead of graduation. Students looking to focus their studies in business would write competitive essays sharing their college plans and goals. HBA members would select Lauren Coppins the best written essays and award one girl and one boy student with the scholarship funds. • Winter Holiday Snowflakes: The beautiful lighted snowflakes that decorate Broad Street in Hopewell Borough from November to February were a community project sponsored by the HBA. For the past several years, the HBA shouldered the entire expense for the installation, removal and maintenance of the snowflakes. This year, the HBA has donated the snowflakes to the Borough of Hopewell to ensure they will continue to brighten our winter holidays in the years to come! • Parking & Road Rules: The walkable community we enjoy today was threatened by higher traffic and parking volumes during the 1980s. The HBA was the voice of the local business community,
The HBA shares its heart-felt gratitude and thanks to the current and past membership for their passion and support throughout the years! And would also like to thank the community for their support. It has been an honor to be part of the amazing story of Hopewell Borough, New Jersey. If you have any additional questions regarding the ending of the Hopewell Business Association, please contact Janice Schroeder at (732) 475-7363 or hopewellbusinessassoc@ gmail.com.
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H AV E A H U N T E R D O N H E A LT H C A R E P H Y S I C I A N ? HUNTERDON FAMILY & SPORTS MEDICINE AT HOvvv PEWE L L VAL L EY Hunterdon Family & Sports Medicine at Hopewell Valley is part of a network of family practices operated by Hunterdon Healthcare. We pride ourselves on keeping you healthy. CALL AND SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT. Hunterdon Family & Sports Medicine at Hopewell Valley 84 Route 31 North, Suite 103 Pennington, N.J. 08534 609.730.1771 Lear n m ore n o w a t Hu n te rd on He a l t h c a re . o rg / Hu n te rd on Fam i l y M e d i c i n e
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December 2018
Member FDIC
Knox Grove Financial
CHATTING WITH CHRISTINA
President and CEO of Knox Grove Financial, LLC of Pennington, NJ Hello Hopewell Valley Neighbors!
As we reflect on this past year, I want to take a moment to thank our readers, clients, and friends for your interest in our Hopewell Valley Neighbors column, Chatting With Christina. This is a forum for our community to ask financial questions that matter to you, and get answers that are easy to understand. Please continue to submit your questions to christina@knoxgrove.com for a chance to be featured in our next article. Remember: Knowledge is power! Take control of your finances and make sure you have a clear path to your goals. As always, we are here to offer a personal in-office consultation. Wishing you and your families a Happy & Healthy Holiday Season
Christina A. Nash Christina’s December Tip:
As we wrap up the year, it’s important to organize your financials and review your goals. See our website for the free document checklist to get started! knoxgrovefinancial.com: Resources > Document Checklist
Hopewell Valley Neighbors
www.KnoxGroveFinancial.com 23 Route 31 N, Suite B10, Pennington, NJ 08534 • 609-216-7440
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Spotlight on Community
December Force of Nature Sonja Michaluk
By Lisa Wolff | Executive Director, FoHVOS
F
oHVOS is pleased to name Sonja Michaluk as our December Force of Nature. Though she is only 15 years old, she has inspired us and contributed more to environmental research than many do in a lifetime. We first became aware of Sonja in 2016 when she was a Timberlane Middle School eighth-grader and won first place in the 2016 DuPont Challenge Science Essay Competition – Junior Division. Her essay, “Because Salamanders Cannot Speak for Themselves,” was selected from more than 9,000 entries. Her award included a $5,000 U.S. Savings Bond and an all-expense-paid trip to Walt Disney World Resort. In addition, she, her mom, and science teacher, Ms. Kelli Iannacone, attended a private luncheon and an exclusive tour of the NASA-Kennedy Space Center. Shortly after that Sonja was one of 30 finalists in the 2016 Broadcom MASTERS (Math, Applied Science, Technology and Engineering for Rising Stars) competition, which challenges some of the nation’s brightest young minds to “become the STEM innovators who will tackle 21st century challenges.” As a finalist, she received a $500 prize and made it past a field of 300 semi-finalists who each had their own innovative way of tackling a myriad of issues, ranging from environmental conservation to aerodynamics. While she competed in Washington DC, that was as far as she made it for that competition. However, at 13 years old she would have more opportunities hone her skills, contribute to environmental science, and perhaps in other competitions in the future. Since that time Sonja has been sampling and collecting data; she wrote an algorithm that predicted the impacts of potential land development on the chemical and biological health of potentially affected streams. Her work was used in practical application by the Department of Environmental Protection. She was also a biology intern at the Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association supporting research on a Dam Removal project.
She has been sharing her knowledge at environmental fairs and has written curricula about amphibians and macroinvertebrates. She has presented research to the Academy of Natural Sciences, the New York Academy of Sciences and the National Geographic Society. Among other awards and accomplishments, Sonja won a grand prize at the Mercer County Science and Engineering Fair in the spring of 2018. Considering Sonja’s passion and gift, it is not surprising that she was recognized nationally for an invention she developed in a lab in her basement that helps keep specimens alive longer. In September 2018, Sonja Michaluk, now a junior at Hopewell Valley Central High School, was selected for a national Presidential award. This time in Washington, D.C. she came away with top recognition. She participated in the 2018 Presidential Environmental Education Awards Ceremony and was awarded the United States Environmental Protection Agency President’s Environmental Youth Award. Sonja is clearly gifted and we are certain we will be hearing more about her in the future. We are proud that she is from Hopewell Valley and proud to name her the December FoHVOS Force of Nature.
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For more information about FoHVOS, volunteer to get involved, or contribute to FoHVOS #GivingTuesday, go to www.fohvos.org.
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December 2018
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The Lewis School of Princeton Magnificent Tree of Light By Catherine Bialkowski
COME IN FOR ALL YOUR WINTER NEEDS! HOURS Mon-Fri 7:30am-6pm Sat 8am-5pm Sun 9am-4pm
LOCATED AT 101 Route 31 N. Pennington, NJ 08543 609-737-2008
Most of our readers have undoubtedly passed by The Lewis School of Princeton’s glimmering Tree of Light throughout the years. A thirty-foot tall Blue Norwegian spruce tree covered in thousands of tiny white lights, it is often mistaken for a Christmas tree, given the time of year it lights up the community. But the Tree of Light is something else entirely. The Lewis School of Princeton is a unique and empowering institution whose students experience language-based learning differences such as dyslexia and other auditory processing disorders. Their mission, in part, is to “explore and prosper each student’s gifts and great promise.” According to a recent study covered by U.S. New and World Report, approximately 13 percent of students in public school currently receive special education services, indicating a significant amount of children and young adults who experience learning differences. While most people have heard of dyslexia, which causes difficulty reading, there are many other learning difficulties such as dysgraphia (a deficiency in the ability to write), dyscalculia (difficulty in comprehending arithmetic), auditory processing disorder (affects the ability to understand speech), and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (affects, among other things, the ability to pay attention causes impulsiveness). For decades, the Tree of Light celebration has been a way to honor these students, and the more than 30 million people across America with different learning abilities who have not been fairly recognized for their talents, skills, and passions. Each tiny bulb lighting up the tree represents someone who learns differently. The thousands of bulbs create a beautiful glow that symbolizes encouragement and hope, reminding us of the incredible students The Lewis School has educated over the years. This holiday season, when the Tree of Light catches your eye, take a moment to recognize the individuals at The Lewis School and around the world who learn differently. Each and every shining light contributes to its breathtaking beauty.
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Hopewell Valley Neighbors
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NEIGHBORS
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