June 2019
Mrs. New Jersey Beautiful Inside and Out
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.
June 2019
Publisher’s Letter
Publisher: Rachel Donington rdonington@bestversionmedia.com Content Coordinator: Catherine Bialkowski cbialkowski@bestversionmedia.com Designer: Dale Ver Voort Contributing Photographer: Benoit Cortet www.benoitcortet.com Phone: 917-597-6297 benoit@benoitcortet.com
Dear Residents, W
I am blessed to come from a large family of strong, powerful women. I am one of seven daughters, so I have been surrounded by female role models. The powerful women in my life are fierce forces of nature, resourceful and resilient, and they have taught me so much. In this issue, you will read about Robin McKenna, owner of Window Genie of Central New Jersey, who turned her challenges into opportunities for growth, never quitting. Eleni Nicozisis, our featured resident, shows us how to feel secure in ourselves, authentic, and deeply in love with who we are as human beings. I truly admire her beauty and strength. I am proud to share the stories of these passionate, strong (emotionally and mentally) women, who are driven to empower others.
It doesn’t cost us anything to spread a little positive, building each other up a little bit at a time. I hope you enjoy this issue.
Advertising Contact: Rachel Donington Phone: 609-462-6786 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
I’m a strong woman and I’m damn proud of it. We shouldn’t shy away from being confident in ourselves. Don’t forget to support and encourage others, and realize that empowering each other doesn’t take anything away from us.
Contributing Writers: Mary Galioto, John Finnegan, Kenneth Marples, Lisa Wolff
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.
hen you think of a strong woman, who do you think of?
Publisher: Rachel Donington, 609-462-6786
T
his month, we are so proud to be celebrating strong, empowered women. “Girl power” is a phrase we hear all the time, but how often do we actually take the time to think about what it means?
Our featured resident, Eleni Nicozisis, shares with us her incredible story about her experiences in pageantry and the lessons she has learned along the way. She teaches us that femininity -- and the celebration of women -- comes in all shapes and sizes. I hope you feel inspired when you read about her. I know I did as I was writing her story. I also had the pleasure of interviewing Robin McKenna, who shared with me her journey to business ownership and the selfless ways she has been able to give back to her beloved community. Both of these women inspire me, and I hope they inspire you, too. But the truth is that so many women in my life inspire me: my mom, my grandmother, my sister, so many of my friends. And if you take a second to count the women who inspire you, maybe you’ll surprise yourself with just how many you have to be grateful for. Content Coordinator: Catherine Bialkowski
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. ©2019 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
Our advertisers make Hopewell Valley Neighbors possible. Be sure to thank them by supporting their businesses. Tell them you saw their ad in Hopewell Valley Neighbors.
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Securities and investment advisory services offered through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Royal Alliance Associates, Inc.
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June 2019
Converting Savings into Retirement Income
Expert Contributor
By Christina Nash | President & CEO, Knox Grove Financial Most people seamlessly move into the workforce early on in life either by choice or necessity. While working, the saving begins generally through company offered plans, self-employment plans, and the ability to contribute to Traditional or Roth Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs). As investors accumulate, there are many options for managing savings along the way from do-it-yourself core investment management to working with a holistic financial planner. For many investors, company retirement plans and employee savings plans make it very easy for an employee to save for retirement. Simply, sign up, elect a percentage of income to be deducted from each paycheck, and choose a few funds from the provider’s list. Most plans even offer retirement date funds where an employee simply estimates her retirement year and the fund becomes more conservative as the retirement year approaches. Many savers are enticed by the tax advantages of making contributions to retirement plans. Save taxes now and enjoy the tax deferred growth of these accounts later in life. Many of my clients have successfully navigated a career, sometimes two, and have saved a substantial pool of money in various pre and post-tax investment accounts to use during their semi or full retirement. They were told early on in life to get a job, work hard, and save. Mission accomplished - Now what? For most, this transition from accumulation to income distribution is the toughest part. How do I convert my savings into retirement income while I’m trying to emotionally adjust to retiring? All their working lives, these clients have worked for a paycheck to cover living expenses, enjoy the journey, and save for retirement. It is scary to think that there will no longer be a paycheck and their livelihood is dependent upon their savings and retirement accounts. The most common question that client’s ask as they are contemplating retirement is “Will I/we run out of money?” For those that have successfully saved enough to support their retirement income needs, I assure them that they are not alone in this journey and we are here to help them with their path forward. We provide holistic income distribution planning, which includes cash flow planning, risk analysis and risk management, tax management, expense awareness and maintenance, estate planning, etc. With this planning, they can enjoy their retirement and feel empowered about having their savings work for them. Here are few things that we discuss both emotionally and financially with client’s transitioning into retirement: Emotionally • When do you want to retire? Do you want to stop working entirely, semi-retire or volunteer?
income needs and discretionary income needs? Navigating Medicare options is also an important part of this planning. • Risk Analysis and Risk Management – Is there a need for life insurance to replace income for a surviving spouse? Long-term care insurance options are discussed to potentially protect assets from depleting quickly during a long-term care need. Managing investment portfolio risk as retirement approaches and throughout retirement is important for preserving assets and income. • Tax Management – Where should retirement income be drawn to be the most tax efficient? Should a conversion from a pre-tax retirement account to a Roth account be considered prior to turning 70½? How to manage your Required Minimum Distributions (RMD’s). RMD’s are mandatory distributions that one must take from pre-tax retirement accounts at age 70½. • Estate Planning – Determining best ways to pass assets along to heirs, tax efficiently. One of the most rewarding parts of being a financial advisor is helping clients transition both emotionally and financially into retirement. I am lucky to be a part of their journey and see their dreams and goals become a reality. If you are within 10 years of semi or full retirement and would like to know how to best prepare for retirement and convert your savings into retirement income, come visit us at “The Grove”, we can help! For more information on “Retirement Income Planning” or to schedule an appointment to talk about your financial plan, call my office at 609-216-7440 or email me at christina@knoxgrove.com. Wishing You Success,
Christina A. Nash President & CEO Knox Grove Financial, LLC
vvv Securities and investment advisory services offered through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Royal Alliance Associates, Inc.
• Where do you want to live and what types of activities would you like to add to your life or continue during retirement? • What social activities would you like to participate in during retirement? Would you like to budget additional income for travel or another hobby when retired? • Do you have a clear vision of the lifestyle you want during retirement? Financially • Expense Awareness and Maintenance – This includes comparing pre-retirement and projected retirement expenses. For many, these expenses vary greatly. • Cash Flow Planning - When should Social Security be claimed, which pension option should be elected, what amounts should be taken from each investment/retirement accounts for income and how often, etc.? What are the best income investments to use for essential
Hopewell Valley Neighbors
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June 2019
Business Profile
Robin McKenna: Window Genie Giving Back to Her Lifelong Home By Catherine Bialkowski
R
obin McKenna, owner of Window Genie of Central New Jersey, is, in her own words, a Hopewell girl through and through. She grew up here, went to college locally, and has continued to live and work in this wonderful community to this day. “As a kid, I used to look forward to riding my horse in the Hopewell Parade every Memorial Day,” she says fondly. Her father grew up in Titusville and used to walk to the Little Red Schoolhouse on the corner of Pleasant Valley Road and Bear Tavern Road every day, and her mother grew up locally as well, in the New Hope, Pennsylvania area. A love for Hopewell Valley runs deep in Robin’s family, and a sense of community is rooted within her. That’s why the opportunity to become a Window Genie franchise owner was perfect for Robin, who was laid off from her job in sales and marketing at a medical device company in 2012 after working there for 20 years. Losing your job is never a walk in the park -- but for Robin, it soon became clear what she thought was bad news was truly a blessing in disguise. “I get to give back to my community,” says Robin, referring to her current work for Window Genie, which involves window cleaning, window tinting, pressure washing, gutter cleaning, and more.
Through Window Genie, Robin has been able to give back in a number of ways. Not only does she continue to provide free services to cancer patients and veterans, but she finds ways to give back to institutions like the YMCA, for which she has been a parent volunteer and board member, and Community Options, an organization that supports people with disabilities. The Windows 4 Wishes program created by Window Genie has allowed Robin to contribute to her favorite charitable causes through her work. “I’m always looking for ways to give back.” For Robin, being able to serve the community she’s loved her whole life is a joy. “Hopewell Valley is very community-oriented. People support one another.”
vvv Hopewell Valley is fortunate to be home to many locally owned businesses like Window Genie. Please shop local and support Robin’s business by giving her a call at 609-917-4338 and visiting her Window Genie website at: www.windowgenie.com/princeton/
Because Robin has worked in the corporate world, she knows how chaotic life can be for families in which one or both parents work full-time. Navigating kids’ after-school activities, making dinner, and running errands takes enough time already -- no one has time to worry about keeping their windows in shape! “I get to help people with things they can’t or don’t have time to do,” says Robin.”I’ve been able to take my passion for helping people from my former role and, now, help people in their homes.”
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101 Route 31 N. Pennington I 609-737-2008 Hopewell Valley Neighbors
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Resident Feature
Mrs. Jersey Beautiful Inside and Out Eleni Nicozisis’ Passion for Female Empowerment By Catherine Bialkowski
I Photos by Benoit Cortet
Eleni Nicozisis was 11 years old when she told her mother she wanted to be in pageants, and 12 years old when she won Miss Ohio Pre-Teen out of 181 girls. She received no prior coaching—it was her strong sense of self and eloquence that won her the title. “I was hooked from a young age,” she says. “I had the stage bug!” And she’s been involved with pageantry ever since. Many people don’t actually know what it means—and what it takes—to be in a pageant. Participants often have beautiful hair, makeup, and gowns, but that is certainly not all. “The biggest thing pageantry gives women who are involved is a sense of purpose. For me, that has evolved into a drive for doing community service along with other local involvement,” says Eleni, who has done extensive community service work for the Alzheimer’s Association, including testifying on Capitol Hill for the Association. For Eleni, Alzheimer’s hits close to home, as she lost her father to the disease. “My purpose in life now is to cultivate that same sense of community service in my children.” Over the years, Eleni has won many titles, including Miss Ohio Pre-Teen, Miss Ohio Teen, Mrs. New Jersey United States, and Mrs. New Jersey International. She also competed in the Miss America system which she loved for its talent portion (she’s an accomplished dancer having danced since the age of five). And she’s learned valuable lessons about life, self-identity, and feminism while honing these performance skills. “Society has these ‘ideals’ about women,” says Eleni. “We need inclusivity. Feminism is not about what you look like—it’s about what you want to look like, who you want to be.” And although pageantry isn’t all about looks, feeling confident in your own skin is certainly not a bad thing. “I take pride in the way I look, and It makes me feel wonderful to take care of myself, inside and out.” says Eleni—and she wants women everywhere to know that that’s a wonderful thing. It doesn’t make you any less of an empowered woman; in fact, it can even create more self-confidence. Slogans like “Girls Supporting Girls” and “This is what a feminist looks like” are popping up on canvas totes and T-shirts alike, spreading the very same message Eleni wants to share: when women lift up other women, they can do anything—and there’s not a uniform you need to wear to support women’s empowerment. Feminists come in all shapes and sizes! “It’s important to be proud of how you look in the mirror, for that one special person, yourself,” says Eleni. Eleni met her husband, Jonathan, at a “big fat Greek wedding” in Chicago. “We met, got engaged, and got married in 11 months—it was a whirlwind,” she says. Jonathan, an orthodontist with practices in Princeton and West Windsor, had come across Hopewell Valley years earlier during residency, and loved it; he soon bought a townhouse in Pennington. Now, eleven years after their wedding, the couple has since moved to Hopewell Township with their three children: Elias, 9, Nia, 7, and Ariana, 5. Eleni and Jonathan have successfully instilled a sense of giving back to the community in their children; Elias has developed his own idea for a nonprofit, Miles of Smiles Worldwide, in the same spirit of selflessness as his mother. Elias, who wants to be an orthodontist like his father, has a mission to collect enough dental floss and toothbrushes to stretch around the globe—hence the name “Miles of Smiles.” These items will then be donated to people in need across the world. “This was completely his creation,” says Eleni. “He came up with the idea by himself.” Nia, too, has dreams of giving back. She has a passion for reading, so she plans to create an organization that will incorporate her love of books with a way to help others. Ariana will undoubtedly follow in her older siblings’ footsteps. 8
June 2019
Eleni with daughters Nia and Ariana
Hopewell Valley Neighbors
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Resident Feature
“I first started participating in pageants after watching Miss America as a little girl and dreaming of dancing on stage” ~ Eleni
Nia and Ariana
Eleni, who has a degree in international affairs from the Elliott School of International Affairs at The George Washington University with a minor in Journalism and Women’s Studies and an MBA in International Marketing from the University of Louisville, has had a career in the news media, worked at Bloomberg News reporting for Capitol Hill, and even worked in Greece for a worldwide magazine as their marketing director. These are merely some of the amazing experiences that she has had before deciding to focus on her most important job, motherhood. Eleni attributes a lot of her success to the influence of the independent women she met through her many years of 10
pageantry. “The women I’ve met in pageantry are some of the strongest and most educated women I’ve ever encountered,” says Eleni. “They are driven in their careers, their families, and their communities. They are intelligent and motivated—and love to look beautiful.” While competing, Eleni visited and spoke in 38 states on an array of important topics including HIV prevention, Alzheimer’s Research, and the Children’s Miracle Network, to name a few. Her kindness and humanitarianism comes from within, and she wants to spread the message of selflessness and giving back— but with confidence and most definitely style. June 2019
Resident Feature Nicozisis Family, Eleni and Jonathan with their children, Elias, Nia & Ariana
Eleni has learned so much from pageantry—how to be unstoppable, how to interview well, and of course the importance of feminism. And her involvement with it is not over! She continues to be involved as a judge, coach and of course to this Mrs. New Jersey United States 2012 and Mrs. New Jersey International 2016; who knows where the future will lead? “I first started participating in pageants after watching Miss America as a little girl and dreaming of dancing on stage,” says Eleni. “Later, I was awarded tuition and scholarship money from pageants and it was such an incredible feeling of accomplishment. I loved the feeling of being able to have such a strong voice on the causes that were so important to me.
To this day, I believe that pageantry gives women a limitless platform to speak about the incredible causes that are so important to them while at the same time developing a huge sense self-worth and confidence. These are gifts that last a lifetime. For this, I will be forever grateful.”
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.
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 Hopewell Valley Neighbors
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Real Estate
Hopewell Valley Market Activity RESIDENTIAL RENTALS
APRIL SOLDS - Homes ADDRESS 121 Shrewsbury Ct
BEDS 3
BATHS SOLD PRICE 2.5 $265,000
22 Woolsey Ct
3
2.5
$319,000
242 S Main St
3
1.5
$319,900
208 Colt St
2
2.5
$327,000
124 Treymore Ct
3
2.5
$360,000
29 Temple Ct
3
2
$362,000
6 Cedar Brook Ter
4
2.5
$367,500
48 Model Ave
3
1.5
$380,000
49 Aunt Molly Rd
4
3.5
$485,000
7 Fairway Dr
4
2.5
$505,000
6 Meadows Ct
4
3.5
$700,000
195 Marshall Cnr Woodsville
4
3
$715,000
4 Fitzcharles Dr
5
2.5
$720,000
17 2nd St
4
2.5
$735,000
29 Caroline Dr
4
3.5
$782,500
1 Caroline Dr
4
2.5
$787,000
ADDRESS 13 Minnietown Ln
BEDS BATHS 1 1
RENT $1,200
48 W Broad St #1
2
1.5
$1,735
810 Pebble Creek Ct
3
2.5
$2,600
430 Sked St
4
3
$2,700
4 Ege Ave
3
1
$2,700
85 Stony Brook Rd
4
2
$2,900
COMMERCIAL ADDRESS 12 - Lower Left Mercer St
BEDS BATHS 0 0
RENT $700
Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the entire real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.
18 N. Greenwood Ave. Hopewell Borough For Sale
HOPEWELL VALLEY OFFICE 800 Denow Rd, Suite N, Pennington, NJ 08534
609.737.9100 www.GloriaNilson.com
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June 2019
Business Profile
GEICO is Local By Christopher Cline | Co-owner, GEICO Local Office Mercer County
My wife Maureen and I both worked for GEICO in corporate offices in Long Island and Buffalo, New York, from 2003 to 2007 – she in customer service, I in sales and product management. We loved working for GEICO and knew that getting the chance to work with the company as an independent agent serving the local community would be a great opportunity. After several rounds of interviews, we were selected as the first local agency owner for GEICO in the State of New Jersey. GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Co.) has been around since 1936. Originally, the company’s focus was on government employees and military personnel. The local agent program started way back in 1961, but didn’t gain much popularity outside of military bases until the 1990s. When we opened our doors in area in 2007, there were fewer than 100 agencies countrywide, and we were excited to be able to introduce a face-to-face way of interacting with GEICO and local residents. We are the only GEICO office in the greater Mercer County area, and so pleased to serve this market. While many customers choose to do business with us over the phone, it’s nice to know that our offices are located nearby. Maureen and I have a strong commitment to giving back to community, and there are many opportunities to get involved – with schools,
local business groups, charities and non-profit organizations, and local sports teams. We have since built relationships with numerous groups offering support from everything like silent auction basket donations to presenting sponsorship agreements. Networking with businesses and consumers alike comes natural to us. As a result, referral business, which to me is one of the biggest indicators of success, has been great. Another indicator is the ability to provide solid career opportunities, and we are proud to say that we’ve employed many local Mercer County residents at GEICO over the years, often acquiring talent directly from local colleges. Giving back to community is a core part of our culture, and I continually try to encourage each of member of the GEICO team to seek out new ways we can extend our reach.
vvv Our GEICO Local Office is located at 825 Route 33, Hamilton. Please give Chris and Maureen a call at 609-530-1000 for more information.
Call Chris Cline’s team! Chris Cline, Agency Owner See how much you could save on your insurance. Get a free quote today!
(609) 530-1000 geico.com/Mercer
Sensitivity: Confidential
ecause We Care 21 North Main Street, Pennington, NJ 08534
(609) 737-2900
www.blackwellmh.com
I blackwellmem@verizon.net
Elizabeth Blackwell Davis
Owner/Lic. Director NJ #2475
Kevin R. Latham
Manager/Lic. Director NJ #4625 / PA #000714
Continuous family service since 1881 • We offer full service funerals, cremations and pre-arrangements. Hopewell Valley Neighbors
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Calendar of Events
Hopewell Happenings
Every Wednesday at Mercer County Library— Hopewell Branch Knitting Group Bring your current needle-craft project and join us for an hour of knitting (or crocheting...or need-craft of your choice!). @ Mercer County Library, Hopewell Branch Time: starts at 7pm No registration necessary. Every Saturday Pennington Farmers’ Market Bringing together 4 Hopewell Valley local farms and other small businesses every Saturday through the middle of November. Local artists and musicians featured each week, and community groups are provided with a place to reach out to their neighbors. @ Rosedale Mills front lawn, 101 Route 31, Pennington Time: 9am-1pm Sat., June 1 Color Me Calm – Adult Coloring @ Pennington Public Library, 30 North Main Street Coloring books and art supplies available all day Radio Control Flyers Show The Washington Crossing Radio Control Flyers Association will have model aircrafts on display throughout the library. Members will be available to answer questions about building and flying model aircrafts. @ Mercer County Library, Hopewell Branch Time: 10am-12pm No registration required. Mon., June 3 Documentaries @ Your Library – Contemporary Color (2016) Musical acts perform with high-school color guards in this unique concert (PG-13, 107 minutes). @ Mercer County Library, Hopewell Branch Time: 1:30-3:15pm Guided Mediation Mira Desai teaches guided meditation series during the winter. Participants should wear comfortable clothing, and if you’d like, bring a towel or yoga mat. @ Mercer County Library, Hopewell Branch Time: 7-8pm No registration necessary.
@ Mercer County Library, Hopewell Branch Time: 10:00am-12:00pm Registration requested. Mon., June 10 Guided Mediation Mira Desai teaches guided meditation series during the winter. Participants should wear comfortable clothing, and if you’d like, bring a towel or yoga mat. @ Mercer County Library, Hopewell Branch Time: 7-8pm No registration necessary. Wed., June 12 For Hopewell Valley Seniors: Heart Health Join us as Karen Avila the Cardiovascular Outcomes Coordinator from Capital Health reviews Heart Failure and its symptoms. Heart Failure questions to ask your doctor, what kinds of lifestyle changes to make if you are diagnosed with heart failure and how to manage the symptoms by using a self-check plan and symptom tracker. @ HV Senior Center, 395 Reading Street, Pennington Time: 10am Register by calling 609-394-4153 Sun., June 16 Happy Father’s Day Wed., June 19 For Hopewell Valley Seniors: The Aging Eye Join us as Joan Micucci, COMT of Matossian Eye Associates presents a comprehensive overview of the many conditions that can affect a person throughout the natural aging process, specifically those which affect vision (cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration). Joan will discuss prevention and treatment of these conditions with a brief overview of each. @ HV Senior Center, 395 Reading Street, Pennington Time: 10am Register by calling 609-394-4153
Thurs., June 20 Hopewell Valley Central High School Last Day of School for All Schools Hooray for Summer! Graduation Day Congratulations Class of 2019! Sat., June 22 Sourland Music Festival Celebration Premier live music event of the summer with great local food and spectacular views. For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.sourlandmusicfest.org. @ Polo Fields of Hillsborough Golf & Country Club 146 Wertsville Road, Hillsborough Time: 3-10pm Proceeds benefit the Sourland Conservancy Tues., June 25 For Hopewell Valley Seniors: Aging In Place, Modifying Your Home If you love where you live, chances are you don’t wish to move. So stay! Lifetime Home provides the full spectrum of universal design services- from consultation and evaluation to design and construction - so that your home works beautifully no matter your age or ability. They are committed to developing innovative approaches to your unique needs in a compassionate and responsive manner. They will be onsite to speak about how to adapt your home as you age so that you can safely live independently as long as possible. @ HV Senior Center, 395 Reading Street, Pennington Time: 10am Light refreshments will be provided. Registration is requested by calling Liz by June 21, at 609-537-0257 or email, ere@hopewelltwp.org.
vvv 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.
Wed., June 5 PB&PA: Annual MEGA Networking Event Fundraiser for YMCA’s Special Olympic program and Carol Feldman’s organization Shine and Inspire. @ Hopewell Valley Vineyards Time: 6pm Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door; price includes a wine tasting Sat., June 8-9 Town-Wide YARD SALE Hopewell Borough SCORE Princeton: Starting a HomeBased 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. With low overhead, advantages of technology and minimal capital required, many people are opting to shift careers to become a home-based entrepreneur. This workshop discusses the pros, cons and how to’s of running a home-based business including work space and zoning requirements, employees, insurance, licensing, and what it will require from you and your family.
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June 2019
The Wilson Family provides affordable dignified services to the families of Hopewell Valley since 1960.
Pennington Montessori School Premier Early Childhood Education 6 Weeks thru Kindergarten Academic Curriculum Music-Spanish-Outdoor Education
Call to schedule a tour!
6O9.737.1331
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
609-737-1498 Cromwell-Immordino Memorial Home Joseph A. Immordino, Jr., Manager NJ Lic # 4231
609-466-0233 Timothy F. Reeg Funeral Director 4 Tree Farm Road, Pennington www.penningtonmontessori.com admissionsinfo@penningtonmontessori.org
Now Accepting Applications
Hopewell Valley Neighbors
Timothy F. Reeg, Manager NJ Lic # 3982/Pa Lic # FD-013977-E
609-392-1039 Serving Hopewell Township, Hopewell Borough, Lawrenceville, Ewing, Peinnington, Titusville, Blawenburg, and Princeton.
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In The Arts
Hopewell Valley Arts Council News By Mary Galioto | Public Relations and Media Coordinator, Hopewell Valley Arts Council
Look for the Arts Council this Summer! • Don’t miss us at the Titusville 4th of July Parade at 1pm along River Drive. • Come express yourself at the “Art Tent” during the Pennington summer concerts in Howe Commons, Thursdays, July 18 and August 15.
The HV Arts Council Needs Your Support! We know that art is part of what makes Hopewell Valley the warm, wonderful, and imaginative community that it is. We want to keep it that way. Please visit our website at www.hvartscouncil.org to learn more about our art initiatives and community programs that celebrate art in the everyday.
“Zoom” by Barbara DiLorenzo – Author, Illustrator, & HV Arts Council Member
Have a fun and creative summer!
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June 2019
WOOSAMONSA SCHOOLHOUSE STRAWBERRY SOCIAL
Resident Submitted
A Sweet Remembrance of Simpler Times By Elizabeth England | Hopewell Township Resident
T
rustees of the Woosamonsa Schoolhouse Association invite the community to attend the annual Strawberry Social on Sunday, June 9 from 1-4 p.m. The event will be held at the well-loved site in Hopewell Township. Built in 1875, it is Pennington’s oldest surviving schoolhouse building. Families looking for Sunday fun won’t want to miss this old-fashioned ice cream social where they can get a glimpse of what schools and life were like over a century ago. Strawberry Shortcake Sundaes include a large serving of fresh strawberries over shortcake, hand-scooped ice cream from Uncle Ed’s Creamery and whipped cream. Tickets are priced at $8 for adults and children 6 years or older. Children 5 and under are free. Tickets may be purchased in advance at Jack’s Greenhouse and Farm, or at the door day of the event.
For those who have wondered about the curious building at the intersection of Woosamonsa and Poor Farm Roads, it is a restored one-room schoolhouse maintained by a non-profit neighborhood organization dedicated to preserving its original condition at the time it closed in 1918. “Strawberry Socials” are a longstanding tradition at the Schoolhouse, some long-term residents remember them being held as early as 1925 during the Great Depression and for many years after. “The more years that pass, the more precious this building is to the region,” said Erwin Harbat, a lifelong township resident and trustee of the Woosamonsa Schoolhouse Association. “It reminds each of us how people lived and learned before the arrival of computers, the Internet and Smartphones.” Proceeds from ticket sales at the Strawberry Social ensure that the schoolhouse stands for future generations. The Woosamonsa Association is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization. Donations are taxexempt and 100% of the monies raised are reinvested in a building maintenance fund. This year the Association plans improvements to the back of the schoolhouse restoring it to its original construction materials. Everyone is invited to join the fun at The Strawberry Social! The schoolhouse is located at the intersection of Woosamonsa and Poor Farm Road, off Route 31 in Hopewell Township.
vvv In addition to strawberry shortcake sundaes, Schoolhouse visitors will enjoy music by favorite folk performers, Fiddlesticks. The duo, whose music epitomizes the authentic sounds of the Sourlands Mountains, will also entertain with pass-around puppets and square dance calling. Games and crafts for kids will also be featured.
Across the nation, citizens appreciate historic and architectural character as being essential to the identity and unique character of their communities. Don’t miss this fun local event designed to help preserve this important Hopewell Valley historical site! For more information, please visit www.woosamonsaschoolhouse.com.
Hello Spring!
Fig Salad
Breakfast Jersey Burger
Welcome Spring in at either of our two delicious Hopewell Valley locations! 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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From the newest trends to timeless treasures, Twirl gifts are sure to delight.
Now offering STEM toys, LEGO, outdoor toys and custom party favor bags too! Come visit us today! 10 North Main Street, Pennington
609-737-4386 (4FUN)
Tues-Wed. 10-5 I Thurs.-Fri. 10-6 I Sat. 10-5 I Closed Sun. and Mon.
10 North Main St., Pennington ] twirltoyshop.com
• 2015 Accepted as an Early Decision Candidate to Farleigh Dickinson University
h, stubbornness ucation from s School that confidence.”
McTigue
inson University of 2020 ool of Princeton, 1- 2016
• 2016 Honors College Preparatory Graduate of The Lewis School • 2017 The Lewis School of Princeton Honor Society Inductee • 2017 Dean’s List at Fairleigh Dickinson University
A Leading • 2017 Honored Alumni Speaker, The Lewis School Athletic Awards Banquet Research-based K-12 • Awarded a Full FourYear Scholarship to Fairleigh Dickinson University College Preparatory • Accepted to all of his top ten colleges Day School • 2017 Most Valuable Player for Fairleigh Dickinson Cross Country Team
“When I first came to Lewis, I was frustrated by the demands of auditory processing in a • 2015 Accepted as an Early Decision Candidate to Farleigh Dickinson University Where thewritten Gifts of lecture Teachers situation Champion and by longer assignments, research and managing the load • 2016 Honors College Preparatory Graduate of The course Lewis School “I have faith, stubbornness and anIeducation from However, the work ethic and teamwork that Learning Differently, Value Thinking in reading. I avoided the writing whenever could. • 2017 The Lewis School of Princeton Honor Society Inductee The Lewis School that give me confidence.” • 2017 Dean’s List at Fairleighathlete. Dickinson University thecarried Box™ me through I learnedOutside at Lewisof have as a successful college I know that the June 24 - July • 2017 Most Valuable Player for Fairleigh Dickinson Cross Country Team Andrew McTigue lessons I learned from my teachers Fairleigh andDickinson coaches at The Lewis School will stay with me in athletics University • 2017 Honored Alumni Speaker, The Lewis School Athletic Awards Banquet Class of 2020 and in personal successes yet toProcessing come.” Language and Learning | Auditory The Lewis School of Princeton, • Awarded a Full FourYear Scholarship to Fairleigh Dickinson University Athletics | Performing &“The Visual Arts Lewis School helped me to realize that I should not be afraid to approach success in my own way. Before attending Lewis, I never thought about success or that it would come easily, if it came at all.”
SAT | STEM | Math | Speech & Language
2011- 2016
• Accepted to all of his top ten colleges “When I first came to Lewis, I was frustrated by the demands of auditory processing in a lecture situation and by longer written assignments, research and managing the course load in reading. I avoided writing whenever I could. However, the work ethic and teamwork that I learned at Lewis have carried me through as a successful college athlete. I know that the lessons I learned from my teachers and coaches at The Lewis School will stay with me in athletics and in personal successes yet to come.”
Open Houses Saturdays 10:00 AM April 13 ~ May 11 ~ June 1
“I have faith, stubbornne and an education from The Lewis School that give me confidence.”
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Andrew McTigue
Fairleigh Dickinson Universi Class of 2020 The Lewis School of Princeto 2011- 2016
“The Lewis School helped me to realize that I should not be afraid to approach success in my own way. Before attending Lewis, I never thought about success or that it would come easily, if it came at all.”
Topics and Trends in Education Seminars Wednesdays 1:00 PM April 24 ~ May 15
53 Bayard Lane, Princeton NJ 08540 www.lewisschool.org (609) 924-8120 53 Bayard Ln, Princeton, NJ 08540 | (609) 924 -8120 | www.lewisschool.org info@lewisschool.org
rd Ln, Princeton, NJ 08540 | (609) 924 -8120 | www.lewisschool.org 18
53 Bayard Ln, Prin
June 2019
Spotlight on Community
Fairgrown Farm Opens in Hopewell By James Klett | Owner, Fairgrown Farm
Hopewell Borough locals James and Alex Klett have just opened a new community-focused farm on Aunt Molly Road. The Klett brothers’ business, Fairgrown Farm, grows seasonal vegetables through only natural methods. Along with hosting the first-ever Hopewell Farmers Market on Broad Street, Fairgrown Farm offers farm shares to the residents of Hopewell Valley, Montgomery, and Princeton.
The farm will also be hosting the first ever Hopewell Borough Farmers Market on Broad Street – in the courtyard between Antimo’s Italian Kitchen and PNC Bank. The market will run every Wednesday (4 p.m. - 8 p.m.) and Sunday (9 a.m. - 2 p.m.), with a special opening on Saturday, June 8 (9 a.m. - 2 p.m.) during the town-wide yard sale. The market will include a variety of other local vendors – ranging from
The Klett family has lived in Hopewell Borough for three generations (since 1964) with ancestral roots going all the way back to the 1600s. Growing up with deep ties to the community, James and Alex have always been involved in town, often helping their father who oversees the Hopewell Borough Museum. After farming successfully for several years in Montgomery, the brothers have returned home to the Borough to start Fairgrown Farm and grow safe, nutritious food for the community they love. Established on pristine pasture untouched by the plow, the soil on this new farm is healthy and, most importantly, clean of any unwanted chemicals. Fairgrown Farm is in the process of becoming a certified organic farm. Their crops are grown in the most wholesome way possible, avoiding even pesticides that many other organic farms use. They live by their motto that better food creates better lives. Fairgrown Farm is now offering farm shares to those looking to not only support local farmers, but also get a great value on seasonal produce. If you’re unfamiliar with community-supported agriculture, farm-share programs allow members to purchase their entire season’s worth of produce in advance. This helps the farmer pay for the high initial costs of planting while giving the member a nice discount in return. Unlike many other farms, Fairgrown Farm offers two convenient options – delivery and market shares. With a delivery share, your household receives a weekly, farmer-curated box of assorted in-season vegetables delivered to your front door at no additional cost. With market shares, customers receive a credit that can be used anytime at the Hopewell Farmers Market, giving them the ability to control what produce they receive and when.
Hopewell Valley Neighbors
specialty seasonal sauces to organic grass-fed pork. With their first crops of broccoli, lettuce, kale, and cabbage already here, the Klett brothers look forward to a promising first year at the new location. Everything is in place to have a bountiful harvest of healthy and tasty produce!
vvv To learn more about Fairgrown Farm, their farm shares, or the Hopewell Farmers Market, check out their website at Fairgrownfarm.com or call James directly at 609-731-6063. Just keep in mind he might be busy in the field!
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