July 2018
The Fosters A Story of History, Heritage, and Home
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
Nick Pirone - Owner 1652 Reed Road, Pennington, NJ I 609-356-3465 nick@ce.land I ce.land.com
Dr. Wendy Myers 59 One Mile Road Ext., East Windsor, NJ I 609-443-0424 windsordermatology.com I #freezefat
Hopewell Valley 800 Denow Road, Suite N, Pennington, NJ I 609-737-9100 glorianilson.com
Financial Advisor Knox Grove Financial LLC.
Orthodontics DeSimone Orthodontics
Christina Nash – President & CEO 23 Route 31 North, Suite B10, Pennington, NJ I 609-216-7440 Christina@knoxgrove.com I knoxgrovefinancial.com
Heating & Cooling Princeton Air Conditioning, Inc.
Dr. Karen DeSimone, DDS 2 Tree Farm Road, Suite B-200, Pennington, NJ I 609-737-8000 www.desimoneorthodontics.com
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Hopewell Valley Neighbors publisher: Rachel Donington: rdonington@bestversionmedia.com / 609-462-6786.
Adam Czaplinski - Marketing Coordinator 39 Everett Drive, Building D, Princeton Junction, NJ I 609-337-3627 adam.czaplinski@princetonair.com I princetonair.com
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July 2018
Dear Residents, Publisher: Rachel Donington rdonington@bestversionmedia.com Content Coordinator: Catherine Bialkowski cbialkowski@bestversionmedia.com Designer: Dale Ver Voort
W
ith the month of July comes the feeling that summer is truly here. Neighbors host barbecues and go on vacation, kids play outside all day, out of school for the season. It’s wonderful to see children on bikes and eating ice cream on their front porches—these things are throwbacks to a time when life was simpler. Hopewell Valley in itself is a sort of blast from the past. Our values here are centered on family and community. Summer is a time to celebrate the area we are blessed to call home, to celebrate each other and spend a little extra time with each other, creating the memories we will look back on years from now.
Contributing Photographer: Benoit Cortet www.benoitcortet.com Phone: 917-597-6297 benoit@benoitcortet.com
This issue, many of our stories bring to light the values our residents hold dear. For the Fosters, it’s family and ties to the community, and for the Neri family, it’s dedication to a cause close to their hearts. I hope the stories in this issue encourage you to spend time with those you love and inspire you to spend this summer the old-fashioned way, making sure to be present for every moment.
Contributing Writers: NJ DeVico, 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: rdonington@bestversionmedia.com 609-462-6786. Hopewell Valley Neighbors
Publisher’s Letter
Publisher: Rachel Donington, 609-462-6786
L
ike Rachel, I love the summertime. I love the blue skies and bright sun, and how easy it is for the days to run into each other, causing you to lose track of time. I love the strange but warm feeling of nostalgia the month of July always brings, because summer has always been summer—and always will be. The story of the Foster family is deep-rooted in history, making it the ultimate throwback; and charming Twirl Toy Shop, a family-owned business, is so quaint and lovely it’s almost magical. I hope these stories will remind you that in this age of constant connection with iPhones and tablets and laptops, relationships with people in your community are so valuable. Please enjoy them.
Content Coordinator: Catherine Bialkowski
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July 2018
Our Valley’s History
Through the Water and the Fire Local Author Charles Hunt Shares His Sailor’s Story
L
ifelong Titusville resident Charles (Charlie) Hunt traces his family history back to Ralph Hunt who emigrated from England to Newtown, Long Island, in the mid17th century. Records show that in 1714, Ralph’s son John owned 500 acres in Hopewell from Yard Road to the edge of the quarry with a portion extending across the current Route 31 to Titus Mill Road and Stony Brook. John’s son Edward married Susannah of the Titus family for whom Titusville was named. Edward and Susannah owned the land where Duncraven Stables is now situated on Bear Tavern Road. The next five generations in Charles’s direct family line continued in agriculture either as basic subsistence or as a business. All of their farms were located within a one-mile radius of one another in Titusville. Charles and his wife Claire continue to reside in the house that has housed five generations of Hunts. Although Charles did not continue in the agricultural business, he is an avid gardener and enjoys maintaining the centuries’ old home and land. Since retirement, Charles Hunt has been engaged in writing a book about his experiences in Vietnam. His autobiography, Through the Water and the Fire, is the story of a young man who joined the Navy to avoid close combat, but ended up being a floating target deep in the most remote areas of the Mekong Delta and Ca Mau Peninsula. Relying on the many saved letters he sent home as well as his personal memories, Charles tells his story of life and death aboard a 50-foot patrol boat. He shares his emotions as the months of boredom are intertwined with moments of fear and high adrenalin. His feelings about freedom, family, and the war protests back home are intermingled with his countdown to when he could return home. Petty Officer Hunt’s story progresses with his readjustment to civilian life, his emotional reactions to the trial of Lt. Calley of
the Mi Lai massacre, his own Christian spiritual awakening, and his participation in the relocation of Vietnamese refugees. He continues with his involvement in the 2004 Presidential election as well as the effects of his exposure to Agent Orange. Lastly, he expresses his sorrow with how we, the American people, abandoned the South Vietnamese people and allowed the sacrifice that he and all the Vietnam veterans made for the cause of freedom and democracy to be wasted. Editor Laura Gainsborg sums up the essence of Hunt’s book with these words: Within the pages...lies not only a true war story but also a history lesson, an autobiography, and a witness to the love and grace of God.
vvv Through the Water and the Fire is available to order from Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
We have lollipops. (Our CD rates are pretty sweet, too.) eNorthfield.com Hopewell Valley Neighbors
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Business Profile
The Magic of Twirl Toy Shop By Catherine Bialkowski | Photos by Karin Belgrave Photography is kid-approved.” And, she adds, “Kid toy testers are always welcome.” The Twirl Toy Shop experience is extremely unique. “We offer something very different,” says Lindsay. In an age where anything can be bought from Amazon.com, Twirl is a very special place to buy toys. “Our staff is trained to understand children and their development stages. We can make suggestions and recommendations.” Lindsay calls her inventory at Twirl a “thoughtfully curated selection of products. You can find things here that are different, things that are good for your kids.” Twirl’s shelves hold a variety of treasures for children of all ages. There is a whole section of the store devoted to toys based on STEM (science, technology, engineering, math), allowing kids to have fun while learning. Customers can find anything from scooters and robots to unicorn headbands, glitter sunscreen, and squishies (brightly-colored foam toys) at the toy store, and there is also an extensive section just for baby toys and gifts. And at Twirl, customers will find only a handful of toys that require batteries. “A real toy engages children, lets them do the work. Play is how a child learns,” Lindsay says.
A
t Twirl Toy Shop in Pennington, there is such a thing as magic. Owner Lindsay Petropoulos says she sees it every day, in the eyes of children as their faces light up with joy at the sight of something new to play with. “There are not a lot of moments like that,” says Lindsay, whose journey with Twirl began in 2017 after hearing that the toy store was closing. “I had one of those, ‘Oh, gosh!’ moments,” she says. She couldn’t imagine North Main Street Pennington without it; her three young children loved it there. Lindsay had been interested in opening a family business for a while, and this seemed like the perfect opportunity to fulfill that dream. Having worked in marketing and sales management before taking a break to be with her young children, she felt the timing was right. “I always knew I wanted to do something on my own. The idea of marketing my own business was so appealing to me,” she says. She talked it over with her husband, Ian. After meeting with the prior owners, Lindsay took a leap of faith and took on the business along with coowner Will Wermuth, a longtime family friend. “It came out of nowhere,” says Lindsay. “It didn’t feel real.” But it was—and Twirl continues to thrive. Lindsay’s three girls, Lila, 9, Ella, 7, and Ava, 4, help their mother choose what toys to bring into the store. Lindsay calls them her own little squad of testers. “It’s the greatest thing ever!” says Lindsay. “They love to come to the store with me. They are the best resource I could have— finding new things, trying them out. Everything in our store 6
Twirl’s customer service is one-of-a-kind. They offer a totally different experience from most other toy stores—and stores in general—offering to complete orders by phone and bring purchased items (with complimentary gift-wrapping!) out to customers’ cars. They’ve even delivered toys into Manhattan. Twirl also offers custom party favors for birthdays and other events, which can be ordered online and ready for pickup the day of the party. “I’d like people to know that we’re here to help them,” says Lindsay. “It’s easy to shop online, but it’s just as easy to shop here.” For Lindsay, owning and running a local business brings great responsibility. “I don’t think there are many things more important in owning a small business than making sure you support the local community,” she says. “Supporting charity events and organizations—that’s our duty. It’s how we keep our community going and growing.”
vvv Please stop by to visit Twirl Toy Shop at 10 North Main Street in Pennington. Learn more about Twirl and its services at www.twirltoyshop. com or call to speak with Lindsay at 609-737-4386 (4FUN). Be sure to follow them on Instagram and Facebook @TwirlToyShop. Keep an eye out for a brand-new Youtube channel devoted to toy testing, Twirl Toy Testers, coming this summer. July 2018
sPummer S
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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
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hopewellmotors@gmail.com 49 East Broad Street, Hopewell, NJ www.hopewellmotors.com
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Resident Feature
The Fosters
A Story of History, Heritage, and Home By Catherine Bialkowski
I Photos by Benoit Cortet
I
t is no secret that Hopewell Valley has a certain charm about it—families settle here from all over, attracted to the quaint sense of community and warmth. Those who have lived here for years, even generations, speak on how quickly it becomes home, how soon neighbors become family. But some residents, like Tom Foster, have lived here all their lives, and they know better than anyone just how special Hopewell Valley is. Tom and his wife, Molly, live a picturesque life in the rolling hills of Hopewell Township with their two little girls, four-year-old Evelyn and 10-month-old Charlotte. Tom runs Hopewell Motors on East Broad Street in Hopewell Borough, a used car dealership that specializes in servicing German cars. Tom, who grew up in Pennington, met Molly while they were in college at Lynn University in Boca Raton, Florida. The couple saw each other for the first time at a college bar students would go to on Thursday evenings. “I walked up to him and said, ‘Can I buy you a drink?’ Molly remembers. And they have been dating ever since. Tom, who majored in hospitality, and Molly, who majored in elementary education, both graduated in 2006. The couple lived in Florida for five years together after graduation, getting engaged in 2011, before making the move back to New Jersey so they could start a family. They were married in 2012. “We loved the weather in Florida, but we didn’t feel like it was home,” says Tom. So he and Molly made the decision to settle in Hopewell Valley, the place Tom had called home all his life. Molly, who is originally from Saint Paul, Minnesota, felt welcomed immediately. “I loved it,” she says, referring to the Hopewell community. In her home state, she explains, the people are known to be “Minnesota nice”—well-mannered, courteous, and polite, in a way some believe only Minnesotans can be. “I wasn’t sure how friendly people would be here, but there is a great sense of community. I was very pleasantly surprised.” When the couple initially moved to the area, Molly worked as a substitute teacher for a while in the Hopewell Valley Regional School District, until she became pregnant with Evelyn. Tom started his business, Hopewell Motors, three years ago and says it is thriving—a lot of his customers are neighbors from the community. And although German cars are his specialty, he services everything from Subarus to Hondas—in fact, all cars and SUVs. “I’ve always had a love for cars in general,” he says, on his motivation for opening the dealership, “especially German cars. And,” he adds, “that is also my heritage.” Tom’s German heritage in itself is a story. His mother is Mary Roebling Foster, daughter of Ferdinand Roebling the third—a direct descendant of John A. Roebling, a name most New Jerseyans will recognize. Roebling was a German-born United States civil engineer, perhaps most famous for designing and building the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City, which was completed in 1883. John A. Roebling, born in 1806, came to the United States from his hometown of Mühlhausen in Prussia (now Germany) at the age of 25, initially settling near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he met his wife and started a family of nine children (one of those children was the original Ferdinand Roebling). Eventually, Roebling developed a method for weaving wrought iron wire cables that proved to be much more durable than what was on the market at the time. Demand for his new and improved cable grew to such an extent that Roebling opened a factory in Trenton, New Jersey, in
Resident Feature
Hopewell Valley Neighbors
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Resident Feature
Tom at Hopewell Motors
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July 2018
which to manufacture it. Three generations of Roeblings carried on this business, which remained family-owned until 1952.
Resident Feature
Today, Tom’s ancestors’ legacy lives on. The town of Roebling, New Jersey, is named after this influential family, and is home to the Roebling Museum, whose mission is to “document, preserve, and exhibit the history of the John A. Roebling’s Sons Company, the Roebling family, and the village of Roebling,” according to its website. And the Brooklyn Bridge, of course, isn’t going anywhere. Additionally, there is another interesting connection to make; Ferdinand Roebling was the president of the Mercer Automobile Company, founded in 1909, a company that produced one of the most admired sports cars of its time, the 1910 Type-35R Raceabout. This car saw hundreds of racing victories throughout the early 20th century. It is no doubt Tom inherited his love of cars from his greatgreat-grandfather.
“I’ve always had a love for cars in general… especially german cars”
Evelyn
For Tom, raising his own family in the community where he grew up brings back memories of childhood. He remembers visiting the Pennington – Tom Quality Market as a child, a place that still thrives in the community today. “There’s been a lot of change in Hopewell Borough for the better,” he says. “When I was growing up, it was a place you drove through but didn’t stop in.” Now, he says, it’s a community with restaurants, art galleries, shopping— it attracts people from all over. Tom and Molly’s daughter, Evelyn, is currently enrolled at the same preschool in Pennington at Saint Matthew’s Church where Tom himself attended many years ago. Charlotte, the couple says, will follow in her older sister’s footsteps in a few years. In some ways, it is as if history is repeating itself. Tom was so fond of his childhood community that he wants to raise his daughters here, a place that feels like home to all who stop by—and that place is Hopewell Valley.
vvv To learn more about Hopewell Motors, visit www.hopewellmotors.com.
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. Hopewell Valley Neighbors
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Real Estate
HOPEWELL VALLEY MARKET ACTIVITY
MAY SOLDS - Homes ADDRESS 25 Morningside Ct 291 Penn Lawrenceville Rd 97 Lambertville Hopewell Rd 19 Crestview Dr 57 Stony Brook Rd 39 Wilfred Ave 505 Tuxford Ct 111 Corrine Dr 909 Pebble Creek Ct 115 Taylor Tr 221 Colt St 17 Miller Cir 42 Nedsland Ave 80 Haddon Ct 260 Pennington Harbourton Rd 118 N Star 12 Nathaniel Green Dr 2 Howe Ct 236 Jacobs Creek Rd 112 W Broad St 3 Plymouth St 1149 Bear Tavern Rd
BEDS 3 3 4 3 2 2 2 3 3 3 2 2 3 3 3 3 4 3 4 3 4 3
BATHS 2.5 1.5 2 2 1 1 2.5 2 2.5 2 2.5 2.5 4 2.5 2 2 2.5 2.5 2.5 2 2.5 2.5
SOLD PRICE $117,075 $144,550 $215,000 $232,000 $232,000 $257,000 $285,000 $291,000 $334,100 $356,000 $366,000 $367,000 $379,000 $385,000 $399,900 $415,000 $419,000 $435,000 $450,000 $453,000 $512,000 $537,500
5 Ringos Mill Rd 12 Welwyn Ct 15 E Delaware Ave 1 Baldwin Ct 2 Fox Run Rd 8 Nelson Ridge Rd 8 Applewood Dr 4 Madison Ave 9 Elm Ridge Rd 4 Silvers Ct
4 4 4 4 4 4 5 6 4 5
2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 3.5 &.5 3.5 3.5 4 3.5 5.5
$600,000 $622,500 $650,000 $700,000 $760,000 $790,000 $805,000 $899,000 $920,000 $1,100,000
BEDS 3 2 2
BATHS 2.5 2.5 1.5
SOLD PRICE $2,300 $2,300 $2,800
Rentals ADDRESS 503 Amberleigh Dr 612 Bollen Ct 27-29 E Delaware Ave
Commercial 52 Railroad Pl
$575,000
Lots 432 Washington Cross-Penn Rd
$205,000
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.
7 Harbourton Ridge Drive Hopewell Twp., $799,000
Hopewell Valley Office
Enjoy the lifestyle! 4 BR Colonial with dazzling kitchen, HW, finished basement with threatre & screened porch, fenced yard and dog shower. Barbara Facompre, Sales Associate bfacompre@glorianilson.com 609-731-1189
800 Denow Rd, Suite N, Pennington, NJ 08534
609.737.9100
15 West Shore Drive Hopewell Twp., $749,900
Renovated colonial sits on 1.5 acres with over 3800 SF, 5 BRs, 3 1/2 Baths, finished walk up attic, finished basement, brand new kitchen. Lisa LeRay, Sales Associate lleray@glorianilson.com 609-954-0177
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1530 Pennington Road Hopewell Twp., $450,000
INCOME producing property close to TCNJ/Rider/95 with expansion. Three unit apt. bldg plus 6 garages. Extra land for a six unit, 3 br apt bldg. Gough ”Winn” Thompson, Sales Associate gthompson@glorianilson.com 609-468-3838
117 North Star Hopewell Twp., $800,000
3 full stories of great living in this historic Victorian set on 11 farmland assessed acres ready for your horses! 5BD, 3.5BA, study plus new kitchen. Helen ”Sandy” Brown, Broker Sales Associate sbrown@glorianilson.com 609-468-8545
July 2018
THE “Q” IN BBQ STANDS FOR QUALITY.
From marinated meats to that perfect custom cut, the PQM Butcher Shoppe has what you need to make your summer cookout really sizzle.
shop online 24/7 @ pqmonline.com Located At The Corner of Route 31 and Delaware Avenue ● Pennington, NJ 08534 ● (609) 737-0058
CHATTING WITH CHRISTINA
President and CEO of Knox Grove Financial, LLC of Pennington, NJ Hello Hopewell Valley Neighbors! I’m a big fan of the summer months! Growing up on the Gulf of Mexico, I have fond memories of water skiing, barbeques, and shrimp, crab, and crawfish boils. While taking in the warm sunshine, take a few minutes to MIND YOUR MONEY. Here are three questions to help you with this process: n What do I want from money?
n What do I need from money?
n How do I feel about money?
Oftentimes, simply noting the difference between needs and wants, help us make better spending decisions. I believe that the third question, “How do I feel about money” can be the toughest for most people. Feelings can be difficult and scary to uncover and embarrassing to admit. Once you identify your feelings towards money, you can begin to optimize your relationship with money. This process allows you to identify, communicate, and change how you approach your finances. Minding your money is empowering! I wish you all happiness and success.
Christina A. Nash
www.KnoxGroveFinancial.com 23 Route 31 N, Suite B10, Pennington, NJ 08534 • 609-216-7440
PROUD TO BE
part of the Hopewell Valley community! TRUE COMMUNITY. 14 Additional Branches throughout NJ and Bucks County, PA including • Ewing • Flemington • Hamilton • Lawrence
firstbanknj.com • 877.821.BANK Hopewell Valley Neighbors
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Calendar of Events
Hopewell Happenings
Pennington Farmers’ Market Every Saturday @ Rosedale Mills, 101 Route 31, Pennington Time: 9am – 1pm Pet Adoption Days @Rosedale Mills, 101 Route 31, Pennington Puppies & Adult Dogs looking for their forever homes Call 609-737-2008 for dates and times Quoits & Horseshoes in Hopewell Borough Every Wednesday The first person that arrives at the Train Station gets to pick: quoits or horseshoes. Join up with friends to learn how to play or show off your skill. @Hopewell Borough Train Station, Railroad Place Time: 7pm No rain date Library Scavenger Hunt All Month @ Hopewell Public Library,13 East Broad Street Sat., July 1 Color Me Calm – Adult Coloring @ Pennington Public Library, 30 North Main Street, Coloring books and art supplies available all day Wed., July 4 Independence Day Happy Fourth of July! Fri., July 6 Hopewell Borough Concert In The Park: Live Music performed by All for Bette Grab your blankets or lounge chairs, and pick up dinner or desert from any of our local restaurants. Concerts sponsored by 1st Constitution Bank. Alcohol is not permitted. Bathrooms are located at the Fire Station. @Volunteer Bandstand (fondly referred to as the Gazebo in Borough Park) Time: 7–9:30 pm Rain date is Sunday Mon., July 9 Blawenburg Band Concert Hopewell Borough community band plays marches, show tunes, and sonatas as the sun sets behind the Train Station. Bring your folding chair and a cold drink. Bathrooms are available inside the Train Station. @Hopewell Borough Train Station, Railroad Place Time: the music begins promptly at 7:30pm Wed., July 11 Family Movie & More: Coco, Marigold craft & Mexican Hat Dance Create a paper marigold to keep and learn some Mexican Hat dance moves before relaxing with
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Pixar’s movie Coco. Basic Mexican Hat Dance moves will be lead by local dance instructor and Library friend, Dawn Berman. @Pennington Public Library, 30 North Main Street Time: 6:30-8pm Bring a blanket or towel. Great fun for the whole family. Movie rated PG. Wed., July 18 African Drum Circle This program gets both adults and children up and moving and dancing to the beat! Children learn about African drumming and play an authentic African Djembe. Play hand drums, sing songs, and end the session with a traditional African dance circle. Led by Learn Listen Play, a mobile music education program. @Pennington Public Library, 30 North Main Street Time: 3-4pm Great fun for the whole family. Please register: kha@penningtonlibrary.org Wed., July 18 Studio In A Box Get ready to record a hit masterpiece! This “Studio in a Box” program introduces children to music production and recording. Children will get an overview of how to set up a microphone, program drums, and record their voice during this session. Led by Learn Listen Play, a mobile music education program. @Pennington Public Library, 30 North Main Street Time: 4-5pm For Ages 7 and up. Please register: kha@ penningtonlibrary.org Fri., July 20 Hopewell Borough Concert In The Park: Live Music performed by The White Cheddar Boys Grab your blankets or lounge chairs, and pick up dinner or desert from any of our local restaurants. Concerts sponsored by 1st Constitution Bank. Alcohol is not permitted. Bathrooms are located at the Fire Station. @Volunteer Bandstand (fondly referred to as the Gazebo in Borough Park) Time: 7–9:30 pm Rain date is Sunday Sat., July 21 Sourland Conservancy: Hiking The Sourlands Mushroom Walk Experience the wonder of wild mushrooms with a local expert, Jenifer Nina Burghardt, former president of the New Jersey Mycological Association. @Hunterdon County Sourland Mountain Preserve Time: 10am-12pm Hikes are free and limited to 15 participants To register visit www.sourland.org
Mon., July 23 Blawenburg Band Concert Hopewell Borough community band plays marches, show tunes, and sonatas as the sun sets behind the Train Station. Bring your folding chair and a cold drink. Bathrooms are available inside the Train Station. @Hopewell Borough Train Station, Railroad Place Time: the music begins promptly at 7:30pm Wed., July 25 Dig It Up! Dinosaur Eggs Learn about dinosaurs, paleontology and fossils. Then excavate your own dinosaur to keep by carefully chiseling away at hardened clay. Us a guide to identify your discovery! @Pennington Public Library, 30 North Main Street Time: 3-4pm For Ages 5 and up. Space is limited. Register early: kha@penningtonlibrary.org Sat., July 28 Animation At The Station An animated movie will be projected on a very large screen with big sound, under the open sky. @Hopewell Borough Train Station, Railroad Place Time: by 8:00 pm or when the crowd settles in Great fun for the whole family. Rain date Sunday. This month at Hopewell Valley Vineyards: Visit www.hopwellvalleyvineyard.comf or full listing of Artists Every Sunday Jazzy Sundays Light Fare menu & Sicilian Pizza Time: 2-5pm Thursday Night Music & Merlot Light Fare menu & Sicilian Pizza Live Music Time: 5:30-9pm Band Takes the Stage at 6pm Friday & Saturday Night Music & Merlot Enjoy Brick-Oven Pizza & light fare menu Live Music Time: 5:30-9pm Band Takes the Stage at 6pm Winery Closed Saturday June 2 and June 23 for Private Events.
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.
July 2018
Spotlight on Community
A Labor of Love
Hopewell Valley Vineyards Creates Opportunities for People With Autism By Kenneth Marples
A
ccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 59 children are identified each year with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the US. ASD is also four times more likely among boys than girls. Twenty-two years ago, that “one” boy just so happened to be the son of Sergio Neri, who decided he was not going to let his son Davide suffer, and committed himself to making a difference for people with autism. Sergio and his wife Violetta are the founders and owners of Hopewell Valley Vineyards, which planted its first grapes in 2001, and the tasting room has been open for 13 years now. The idea to start a vineyard did not just come to Sergio overnight; rather, like a fine wine, it had been aging in his mind for quite some time. He comes from a long lineage of winemakers in Tuscany, where Sergio’s family still owns vineyards in the Chianti Classico region between Florence and Siena. Violetta, too, comes from a long line of winemakers.
for your fireplace or fire pit,” Svein Hansen, coordinator of Project Autism, explained. Svein brainstorms with Sergio and Violetta on different program initiatives, as well as oversees production of their products. As of now, they have four young men employed at Project Autism, one diagnosed with Down Syndrome, and three with ASD. Revenue from sales of Project Autism products and a portion of the revenue generated by the Hopewell Valley Vineyards goes to paying for tools, supplies, transportation, and the salaries of the workers. Sergio and Violetta are very excited to announce the opening of their new non-profit organization, Pennington Adult Living Services (PALS), which will offer additional programming, as well as residential living, for adults with disabilities.
“Project Autism will morph into PALS, so that the tasks and services we provide right now will be taken over and enhanced,” Sergio said. Sergio, Violetta and Svein have spent Project Autism, photograph by Benoit Cortet countless hours carefully organizing the specifics of running an organization for people “My grandmother made wine and also owned a vineyard, but with special needs, and they are certainly looking forward to not my mother, so I was never part of the winemaking process the future. because we moved to a big city,” Violetta said. Although she “To create a place where adult people with special needs feel was not involved in winemaking when growing up, wine had welcomed and accepted, that’s our ultimate goal,” Svein said. continued to be a hobby of hers. Violetta commented that she always says, “Be careful when you tell yourself you’re going to Violetta originally called winemaking a simple ‘hobby.’ Now, it start something as a hobby because it may take over your life is clear, the Neri family is profoundly changing lives and giving 100 percent, which is very true.” opportunities to individuals with autism who perhaps would not have those opportunities otherwise. In Violetta’s words, it As Hopewell Valley Vineyards continued to grow and make is “a labor of love.” beautiful wines, the Neri’s son Davide was moving into adulthood with ASD. As an increasing number of individuals with ASD transition into adulthood, there are few programs vvv available for adult independence and employment. Sergio and Violetta wanted to help Davide and other young adults To learn more about Project Autism and PALS, visit www. like their son find jobs. They created Project Autism so that hopewellvalleyvineyards.com. people with disabilities could find meaningful employment in a safe and integrated work environment. The program started Please be sure to stop by the tasting room of Hopewell Valley at Hopewell Valley Vineyards with workers creating three main Vineyards, located at 46 Yard Road, Pennington, for the sale of products made from locally sourced recycled materials. products made by Project Autism/ PALS. “We pack fire logs for sale, we do a leaf compost mixed with small particles of wood chips for plants and trees for your garden, and we also make a kindling box which is a fire starter Hopewell Valley Neighbors
Some of the items are also sold at local stores Rosedale Mills and Pennington Quality Market. 15
• 2015 Accepted as an Early Decision Candidate to Farleigh Dickinson University
aith, stubbornness education from wis School that me confidence.”
w McTigue
ickinson University ss of 2020 chool of Princeton, 011- 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 • 2017 Most Valuable Player for Fairleigh Dickinson Cross Country Team HO2 46 Yard Road Pennington, NJ • 2017 Honored Alumni Speaker, The Lewis School Athletic Awards Banquet 609-737-4465 • Awarded a Full FourYear Scholarship to Fairleigh Dickinson University • 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 wheneverWine I could., However, the work ethic and teamwork that I learned at Lewis have carried me Food, through asMusic 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 & Friendship and in personal successes yet to come.”
HOPEWELL VALLEY VINEYARDS
Where Teachers Champion “The Gifts of Learning Differently The Value of Thinking Outside of the Box”™
ard Ln, Princeton, NJ 08540 | (609) 924 -8120 | www.lewisschool.org
SUMMER STUDY AND ENRICHMENT 2018 June 25th - July 20th
8:30 am to 3:00 pm daily
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• 2016 Honors College Preparatory Graduate of The Lewis School
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Society Inductee
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• 2015 Accepted as an Early Decision Candidate to Farleigh Dickinson University
“I have faith, stubbornness and an education from The Lewis School that give me confidence.”
• 2017 The Lewis School of Princeton Honor Society Inductee
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• 2017 Dean’s List at Fairleigh Dickinson University Foundational and Higher Level Math Computation, Reading, Spelling, Writing, Vocabulary, Comprehension • 2017 Most Valuable Player for Fairleigh Dickinson Cross Country Team Andrew McTigue Word Problems and STEM Applications Fairleigh Dickinson University School Athletic Awards Banquet • 2017 Honored Alumni Speaker, The Lewis School Athletic Awards Banquet Phonics, Listening Skills, Auditory Processing, Selective Recall Class of 2020 The Lewis School of Princeton, SAT/ACT Prep for ”Learning-Different Students”™ irleigh Dickinson University • Awarded a Full FourYear Scholarship to Fairleigh Dickinson University 2011- 2016 Expressive Language, Working-Memory, Higher Order Thinking • Accepted to all of his top ten colleges Improve Testing, Minimize Stress “The Lewis School helped me to realize Planning, Categorizing, Prioritizing, Actualizing, Reflecting, Checking that I should not be emands of auditory processing in a “When I first came to Lewis, I was frustrated by the demands of auditory processing in a STEM/ STREAM Electronics and Circuitry afraid to approach esearch and managing the course load lecture situation and by longer written assignments, research and managing the course load success in my own way. ver, the work ethic and teamwork that in reading. I avoided writing whenever I could. However, the work ethic and teamwork that Green Crusaders: Saving the Pollinators Before attending essful college athlete. I know that the I learned at Lewis have carried me through as a successful college athlete. I know that the Lewis, I never thought lessons I learned from my teachers and coaches at The Lewis School will stay with me in athletics e Lewis School will stay with me in athletics success or that it Music/Art Workshops, Producing an Original Sound Track In-studio “A Leaderabout in Research-based, College Preparatory and in personal successes yet to come.” Education would come easily, if it came at all.” Tennis, Track, Sports Training and Health, Team Building For Students Who Learn Differently”
niversity
ckinson Cross Country Team
For Summer Study Applications and Program Availability,
.lewisschool.org
and Pre-k through High School Post Graduate and Gap Year Programs Contact (609) 924-8120 53 Bayard Lane, Princeton, NJ www.lewisschool.org
53 Bayard Ln, Princeton, NJ 08540 | (609) 924 -8120 | www.lewisschool.org
Congratulations to the college-bound students of the Class of 2018 who have earned $1.5 million dollars in Merit Scholarship awards to date! We are so proud of your extraordinary achievement! 16
July 2018
In the Arts
Slice of Art
Hopewell Valley Arts Council Call for Artists By Mary Galioto | Public Relations and Media Coordinator, Hopewell Valley Arts Council
A
rtists are sought for A Slice of Art, the first program in the Hopewell Valley Arts Council’s new initiative, Out of the Ashes: Art Emerging from Fallen Trees. The program commemorates the loss of the ash tree, one of the primary native trees in Hopewell Valley. This summer, wood slices playfully called “Slices of Art” will be available for artists and artisans to take home and artistically reimagine. The entire North American Fraxinus (Ash) genus of ash trees in the United States is threatened as a result of an infestation by a beetle called the Emerald Ash Borer. Many ash trees, some infected and some yet to be infected, are being taken down to ensure public safety. In the spirit of the Hopewell Valley Arts Council’s ongoing upcycling theme—making art out of trash and typically discarded items—Out of the Ashes will transform wood from this beautiful American tree into art through a diverse series of art programs, exhibits, and community events throughout 2018 and 2019. “Slices of Art” are available for artists and artisans to artistically adorn. The program is designed to inspire artists to create unique, natural expressions of art on an ash wood palette. Use your creativity to paint, mosaic, apply photography, or whatever your imagination desires! It is free to participate, and the deadline is August 15. Undecorated wood slices are available in the main lobby of the Hopewell Valley YMCA building, located at 62 South Main Street, Pennington (Monday through Friday 9:30a.m. to 5p.m.) until Wednesday, August 1. Completed artwork will be displayed and for sale at Hopewell Valley Arts Council’s first community BBQ & Cornhole Tournament on Sunday, September 9, at the Valley Road Picnic Area, Hopewell Township. Approximately 100 Slices of Art will
A Slice of Art by Linda Bradshaw
be sold for $100 each—proceeds split 50/50 between Hopewell Valley Arts Council and the contributing artists. This is a great opportunity for all local artists to connect with the community and for art-lovers to buy an original pieces of work of art at a reasonable price—all while supporting our Hopewell Valley Arts Council.
vvv To find out more details about this art program, please see the Hopewell Valley Arts Council website at hvartscouncil.org. If you have questions, contact the Hopewell Valley Arts Council Artist Outreach & Program Coordinator Kyle Wille at kyle.wille@hvartscouncil.org.
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Spotlight on Community
Force of Nature Katherine Dresdner
By Lisa Wolff | Executive Director, FoHVOS
I
f you have taken a walk on beautiful preserved land in Hopewell Valley, odds are that FoHVOS July Force of Nature, Katherine Dresdner, has had some hand in preserving it. From the time she was a child, Katherine’s life experiences seemed to lead and prepare her for her great achievements throughout Hopewell Valley. Katherine’s earliest memories included her father and grandfather as avid gardeners, and her mother saving instead of killing insects. This modeled combination helped shape her eventual law career which always seemed to focus on protecting land and life. Katherine began working on environmental law-related cases in the 1980s. The last case she took before moving to Hopewell Valley in 1998 involved families in Gloucester County who bought starter homes but who were not told that their new homes had been built upon a toxic landfill. The case took 10 years to settle but she saw it through from beginning to end. Her work continued when she had to sue the insurance company for payment to those families. At the same time, FoHVOS was winning its own 10-year battle, led by early member Ted Stiles, that culminated in a property acquisition by Mercer County in 1998 that created today’s Ted Stiles Preserve at Baldpate Mountain. As Katherine settled into Hopewell Valley she would join forces with FoHVOS as she got involved in local conservation efforts. She met Ted Stiles and supported his vision for land stewardship and preservation throughout Hopewell Valley. She also became involved with The Watershed and D&R Greenway. Katherine worked on the St. Michael’s preservation committee. She credits Sophie Glovier, then Development Director at D&R Greenway, for facilitating the millions of dollars raised. Katherine believes local fundraising and community involvement differentiated St. Michael’s from other preservation efforts. The new model inspired the entire community; everyone from adults to school children raised money for a common goal.
Photograph by Benoit Cortet
Citizens Group can be on found in the online version of this story at http://Fohvos.Blogspot.com. Partnering with NJCF added special significance to the win. NJCF Executive Director Michele Byers was married to Ted Stiles before he died. Ted’s vision for Mount Rose inspired much of the dedication to acquisition. Katherine feels that she ‘completed the circle’ seeing the mission through with Michele. At a FoHVOS event in 2015, both Katherine Dresdner and Michele Byers received the prestigious Jack Gleason Environmental Award for a lifetime of achievement as an environmental activist. We celebrate FoHVOS July Force of Nature, Katherine Dresdner.
Katherine would draw from the St. Michael’s collaborative model in her crusade to secure the Mount Rose Preserve.
vvv
Katherine was the general counsel for the Hopewell Valley Citizens Group (HVCG), formed during a contentious battle against proposed development at Mount Rose. In the end the HVCG partnered with New Jersey Conservation Foundation (NJCF) to facilitate a dozen public agencies and non-profit organizations as well as private donors who raised over $1 million to collaborate on a $7.5 million land purchase located at the former Western Electric/AT&T property.
FoHVOS is a non-profit land trust that is dedicated to preserving the Hopewell Valley’s character through open space and farmland preservation, and natural resource protection. Since its inception in 1987, FoHVOS have partnered with landowners, government and other non-profit organizations to preserve over 7,500 acres of open space and farmland throughout Hopewell Valley.
Details about the exciting decade-long legal battle which culminated in a Supreme Court victory for the Hopewell Valley 18
To learn more about FoHVOS please visit www.fohvos.org or call 609-730-1560 to speak with Executive Director, Lisa Wolff.
July 2018
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