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SIX09 Women’s Health COMMUNITYNEWS.ORG

Mercer moves to expand legacy beyond HomeFront

By ReBeKAh SchrOeDer

From a kitchen table to a statewide network, Connie Mercer has seen her Lawrence Township nonprofit, HomeFront, evolve to tackle family homelessness and poverty in central New Jersey.

She started the organization 31 years ago, and now the founder and CEO is transitioning out of her leadership position to continue building on her legacy of advocacy.

“The time was right,” Mercer said of the change. “[There’s] a terrific executive management team

in place right now. Our funding has been very solid. The community has been very generous during the COVID period.”

Mercer is stepping up on Sept.

30 to support families who are homeless at both the state and national level, while she also assists HomeFront’s Board of Trustees in finding a proper successor. Her replacement will officially embark on the role of CEO on Oct. 1.

“My heart has been aching, lusting to get involved with some of the bigger picture issues, because we’re changing lives one by one here at HomeFront and doing it

very, very well. But there are a lot of bureaucratic reforms and legislative reforms that will make a real difference,” Mercer explained.

The initial urge to take action arose when Mercer, aghast with what she saw in a Route 1 motel, helped hungry children and their families living in squalid conditions.

HomeFront’s first volunteers brought food to ensure that the homeless populations were not only adequately nourished, but cared for.

Mercer said that one year, they See MERCER, Page 3

Retail on the mend in Lawrence INTerVieW By BiLL SANserViNO

LHS girls’ lacrosse goalie Izzy DePaz recorded her 100th career save in a victory over Stuart on April 11. For more on DePaz and the team, turn to Page 9. (Photo by Rich Fisher.)

Coming out of COVID-19, retail business is in a tenuous state in many communities.

Already adversely impacted by the increased number of people doing business with online merchants, the pandemic was a tipping point for many small local businesses, and vacant storefronts are now proliferating across the region.

One exception seems to be the Lawrence Shopping Center and the area surrounding it on Business Route 1.

Lawrence Municipal Manager Kevin Ner winski recently sat down with the Lawrence Gazette to talk about issues impacting the township.

The first part of the Q&A resulting from that inter view ran in the April issue of the Gazette and addressed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the township, the 2022 municipal budget and residential and commercial property values. Part 1 can be found posted online at communitynews.org.

In the second part of the interview, which appears below, Ner-

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winski talks with Gazette editor Bill Sanser vino about the state of retail in the township and the situation regarding recreational cannabis sales in the township, which began on April 21 at Zen Leaf, about a month after this inter view took place.

Lawrence Gazette: What’s the situation with retail business in Lawrence Township?

Kevin Ner winski: We still have some pocket areas that are issues, but one area that was a big concern of ours was across the street from the Lawrence See NERWINSKI, Page 6

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MERCER continued from Page 1 provided 300,000 meals, the services then encompassing a Meals on Wheels program and preparing food in volunteer, church, and communal kitchens. Restaurants also donated food, and Mercer estimated that the food is given to about 1,200 families a month.

“The more you deliver the food,” she said, “you see that they need so much more than that. You see that it’s the middle of winter and the little girl that comes out to get the food only has flip flops on.”

She added that the children are so young, but they might have depression or carry a weight beyond their years — with circumstances beyond what a single meal could hope to remedy.

“We realized that what we were doing was terribly important, and we did it for a number of years, that people need so much more than just food and some nice people interacting with them — that they’ve got to claw their way out of poverty, they need real programs,” Mercer said.

This is where HomeFront’s “comprehensive wraparound plan” came to be.

HomeFront is run through donations of money and resources, supplying housing, food, daily necessities, training, life skills, prevention services, programs, and more to families in need.

Their sheltering opportunities and outreach continued to develop along with the organization. In 2015, HomeFront revitalized a decommissioned military base across more than eight acres, turning it into its “Family Campus,” which houses its “Family Preservation Center,” a place where all kinds of assistance is administered on-site.

The Ewing-based facility accommodates 38 families in total, complete with dorm suites and social services to uplift, not discourage, disadvantaged households.

Adults are emboldened to seek out occupational opportunities with proper coaching and the career program, Hire Expectations, while children can also receive customized education and care at the Atkinson’s Child Development Center. This ensures that everyone has an outlet, and a safe space, to develop themselves further.

“We have all the support and services that they need there in one spot,” Mercer said, especially prideful of programs that supply costly items such as diapers.

Beyond the shelters, HomeFront’s sister agency Homes by TLC has created about 120 units of affordable housing.

The nonprofit tries to eradicate the pitfalls that alienate and punish low-income See MERCER, Page 4

LAWRENCE GAZETTE

We are a newsroom of your neighbors. The Ewing Observer is for local people, by local people. As part of the community, the Gazette does more than just report the news—it connects businesses with their customers, organizations with their members and neighbors with one another. As such, our staff sets out to make our town a closer place by giving readers a reliable source to turn to when they want to know what’s going on in their neighborhood.

EDITOR Bill Sanservino (Ext. 104)

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rebekah Schroeder CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST Kevin Nerwinski AD LAYOUT AND PRODUCTION Stacey Micallef (Ext. 131)

News: news@communitynews.org Events: events@communitynews.org Sports: sports@communitynews.org Letters: bsanservino@communitynews.org Website: lawrencegazette.com Facebook: facebook.com/lawrencegazette Twitter: twitter.com/mercerspace 15,000 copies of the Lawrence Gazette are mailed or bulk-distributed to the residences and businesses of Lawrence 12 times a year.

An award-winning publication of Community News Service, LLC. © Copyright 2022. All rights reserved.

Trademark and U.S. Copyright Laws protect Community News Service LLC Publications. Nothing herein may be reproduced in whole or part without written permission of the Publisher.

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MERCER continued from Page 3 families. Additionally, a focus is put on families being able to leave the shelter and get an apartment or house of their own. To aid the moving process, there is also a HomeFront FreeStore for furniture and goods.

Extending her passion for ensuring others have a roof over their heads, at the start of the pandemic, the HomeFront CEO and founder assembled the New Jersey Shelter Providers Consortium.

The entity consists of about 122 statewide shelters “that on any given night, are sheltering about 9,000 people,” according to Mercer.

Prior to this established network, state shelters rarely shared resources or communicated for partnership purposes, Mercer said. But as a team, they are approaching the government about

the implementation of mental health services and other needs, with the pandemic a much too difficult cost to handle individually.

“We figured out how to get training into our shelters, which is something that really hadn’t happened very much.

We got $9 million of additional money in the budget for frontline workers,” Mercer said. “We made sure that people in shelters were first in line for shots and PPE. The government had sort of forgotten about us when they were putting together their policies because we never had a voice. Now, we have a voice.”

“There’s strength in numbers, and the shelter consortium is making such a huge difference,” Mercer added. “The work that we do in running shelters is very complicated, from everything dealing with bedbugs, to dealing with people

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with severe mental health issues, to dealing with a very broken social service system—I just needed colleagues to talk to.”

But Mercer can always come ‘home’ to roost. She is guiding HomeFront through her lifetime of experiences and finding a new person to take her place. She has no doubt she will still be busy, whether it’s with the “two beautiful grandbabies” in Colorado that she is going to prioritize spending time with, or writing a potential book about the HomeFront model.

In terms of national influence, Mercer said that other groups around the country are eager to copy HomeFront’s successes, and may have already done so — thus, spreading the movement with a written guide from the originator herself makes the task easier to accomplish.

Over three decades, Mercer has observed key changes in family dynamics. Years ago, she said, fathers were often not in the picture for those receiving HomeFront services. Pivoting away from that, a higher percentage of families includes fathers than ever before, with the male figures also being heads of the household or single parents more frequently.

Another shift was that prior to 2020, HomeFront had helped nearly eradicate the presence of homeless children living in Mercer County motels.

“The pandemic has turned everything on its head. Once again, there are hotel families, because there just aren’t enough rooms in my shelter or out in the community,” Mercer said.

“We as a community, and I don’t just mean HomeFront, I mean all of the social service agencies, have worked together very well to set up a system that’s quickly moved folks out of homelessness,” Mercer said.

“But probably the thing I’m proudest of is how HomeFront has really been able to successfully rally our Mercer County community to make a difference, and to care and to continue to care. So many communities across the state, across the country, are angry at homeless families, but here in our community, they want to make sure that the homeless kids have the same chance for a good future as the larger community kids do. I’m very proud of that. We set the groundwork for that,” she continued.

Just like the crisis at the motel ignited her desire to open HomeFront, there was a moment when Mercer realized she was inspiring something larger than life.

Mercer has seen the growth of countless individuals from youth to adulthood, witnessing firsthand how children directly took control of their lives to pursue bigger dreams.

“These are the kids that were languishing in those motels that other people had

Connie Mercer, founder of HomeFront, based in Lawrence Township, is stepping down as CEO. written off as being ‘throwaway’ kids.

Now, here they are, making a difference in the community. That makes me most proud,” she said.

Mercer is aware of her impact, and others are, too. The latest HomeFront press release said in its overview that she was “honored at the White House during President Obama’s administration, received an honorary doctorate from Princeton University, and was inducted in 2019 into the NJ Hall of Fame for Housing and Economic Development.”

But a large portion of the world does not register how easy it is to cross the line into poverty, particularly during the pandemic, when government agencies closed down and brought about unprecedented complications.

“People out there just generally don’t realize how close to the edge so many people are. When you miss four paychecks because you’re homeless, because you’re home sick, or because one of the two providers loses a job because their restaurant closed down, [they don’t know] how little it takes to throw people off,” Mercer said.

Mary Gay Abbott-Young is the president of the Rescue Mission of Trenton.

For over 100 years, the Rescue Mission of Trenton has been providing services to economically impoverished people in the area via a large emergency shelter, case management networks, supportive housing, and a range of behavioral health and vocational services. They also have a food pantry, thrift store, and clothing boxes throughout New Jersey to collect donations.

Abbott-Young described Mercer as a

longtime friend both personally and pro“I think all of us would do well to have a fessionally, continuing that others often sister or a mother or a friend that has that remark the pair “fought the good fight type of empathy,” she continued. together,” as Abbott-Young recalled, their Mercer acknowledged Margaret time together dating back to when Home- Mead, a cultural anthropologist and Front was known as the Exchange Club. author, whose quote captures what she Of her “constant, called HomeFront’s unwavering advocacy,” enduring creed, motto Abbot-Young said if need and inspiration: “Never Mercer said be, Mercer would call doubt that a small group that other somebody to help a cliof thoughtful, commitent no matter the time ted, citizens can change groups around of day or circumstance, the world. Indeed, it is going from emotional supthe country are the only thing that ever port to finding legislative has.” eager to copy solutions that best serve “I believe that firmly, families experiencing and I’m very proud that HomeFront’s homelessness.

HomeFront was able to successes.

“HomeFront is a premobilize those volunmier leader in innovation teers to make the world for services to homeless a better place,” Mercer people. I would say the said. “I hope for Homebeauty of Connie’s work Front that it always is is not only that she devela model of how to help oped this comprehensive, homeless families get amazing organization, literally from a through the horror of homelessness and couple of volunteers sitting around the move on to self-sufficiency.” kitchen table into…[serving] every sinHomeFront, 1880 Princeton Avenue, gle need of a homeless family,” Abbott- Lawrence. Donations in Mercer’s honor Young said. “She has never lost contact can be made by credit card or check to with the client, never lost her love or the Connie Mercer Fund at homefrontnj. her ambition to help the families, hasn’t org/donate-conniefund. 609-989-9417 or wavered in that one bit in all these years.” homefrontnj.org.

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doing it for more than 50 years. They know what the stores are that they want to get, and you can’t deny that they’re being successful at it.

Some people are complaining that they’re seeing a certain type of store there. Well, that’s because—like you just said—people who are going to go online and get whatever stuff they’re looking for.

But they know people that want to go to the store touch and feel and see and buy. These are the types of stores that are going to be successful.

LG: I live in Robbinsville across the street from the Foxmoor Shopping Center, which was purchased out of bankruptcy by a new owner a few years ago. At the time they bought it, it was probably 70 to 80% vacant and in a really bad situation.

Well, it was bought by an owner who has several pretty successful strip malls in the area. I drove through it the other day and almost ever y spot is filled. It’s the like you said, if a company knows what it’s doing it can find the right mix of tenants to get in there and make a center like that successful.

KN: Yeah. And with J&J, they’re going to hold. They’re not going to flip it if they’re making it profitable, I don’t know if it’s still true, but I know that as of two years ago, they do not resell their properties. They are a holding company that improves depressed properties, and that’s good for us.

LG: That center has come a long, and I think that some people didn’t have a lot of hope for it if you look back four or five years.

KN: People have a lot of things to say, but they don’t realize that there are people out there that know what they’re

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NERWINSKI continued from Page 1 Shopping Center.

LG: Do you mean the area where the Pizza Hut used to be and near the Colonial Bowling alley?

KN: Yeah, I think that that’s coming back. Jammer Doors is taking over a site where I couldn’t imagine who would go there. It had to be a destination place type of business, and I think Jammer Doors it fits that perfectly.

I think the space that the Dollar General store left is going to be reoccupied, and we think the revitalization of the Lawrence Shopping Center will help a lot, especially once the LA Fitness there peeks its head out of the protection of its cubbyhole, and then and decides that the pandemic is far enough in the rear-view mirror that they can start taking their steps for ward.

They are still committed to the site, and I think that’s going to be a gamechanger, quite honestly. With Starbucks, with the food store, with the other stores all filling up, I think it’s going to have an impact on the other side of the highway.

That Pizza Hut site is perfect for some type of restaurant. It just is, and I think with the general area improving somebody’s going to take a shot at that for sure.

LG: The dynamics of retail are changing, but there are still a lot of uses that can’t be ser ved by online merchants—places that people have to go to in person.

KN: And you know what, our community was—and I’ve said this publicly several times—extremely fortunate that J&J Operating—the owners took this on took a chance on us. because they know what they’re doing.

They know the market. They’ve been

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SIX09 Arts > food > culture

Women’s Health starts on pg 10 thesix09.com | May 2022

Raise a Glass to Mothers & May New Jersey’s wineries are a perfect place to celebrate Mother’s Day or spend a sunny spring afternoon.

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Vegan restaurants find room to grow at the Trenton Farmers Market, page 8.

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Kite Day, Sunday, May 1, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $12 in advance; $15 at the door.

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through its annual kite-flying festival that is perfect for entertaining more than just families. Guests can make, bring or choose a kite to use while country music, pony rides, games and other activities round out the day.

Animal lovers looking to observe Terhune’s sheep shearer cutting fleece off of the animal may do so on Sunday, May 1, at 2 p.m. while other farm creatures, including dwarf Nigerian goats, donkeys, and bunnies, mill about leisurely.

If that “shear” amount of fun activities are not enough, for the adults in attendance, the Wine Orchard is open with Terhune’s 18 varieties of wine available by the glass, tasting flights, and in slushies. Light fare will be available for everyone, as well as apple cider donuts and three varieties of apple cider made from the orchard’s own fruit. Children under three are complimentary and parking is free.

“It’s great for all ages,” said Tannwen Mount, who is proud to be the 10th gen-

Take flight with Terhune Orchards

see WINE, Page 4

By ReBekaH ScHROeDeR

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Working Dog Winery

WINE, continued from Page 2

Erikka Reenstierna-Cates |photographer Richard Termine

eration of the Mount family to farm in the central New Jersey area. “It’s just a fun way to celebrate the renewal season.”

The Mount family has a long lineage dedicated to owning, and running, the farm for more than 45 years, according to Tannwen Mount. The 250-acre property is open all year long, but the warmer months are where the Mount family’s expertise gets to shine.

As part of those plans, Terhune’s Winery Weekend Music Series will see local musicians playing out in the wine orchard, where Mount hopes that their “historic” apple trees will be ready in time for the full visual experience. Reservations are not required.

On Mother’s Day weekend in particular, the lively tunes are set to continue, but mothers will receive $2s off of Terhune’s tasting flights. Mount said that while the orchard is a family friendly place, their goal for May 8 is to help mothers take it easy.

Then, the owner of Terhune, Pam Mount, is set to run her free annual herb and garden class on Saturday, May 14, to help attendees recognize the timely importance of preparing their gardens.

“We’re farmers here at Terhune Orchards, in addition to the winery and

4SIX09 | May 2022

610 Perrineville Road, Hightstown.

Open Fridays, noon to 6 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. www. workingdogwinerynj.com.

A family enjoys sips and small bites at Terhune Orchards.

other things. We like to share our knowledge with everyone and everyone, after a long winter, is ready to get out and about and get their gardens ready,” Tannwen Mount said.

Terhune’s pick-your-own crop is also back on as soon as their asparagus pokes its head out of the ground, which is set to

happen in early May. The farm grows 46 different crops in total, and about a dozen of them are offered in this “hands-on experience of being their own farmers,” as Tannwen Mount noted. A full list of what crop is next to pop up, from strawberries to pumpkins, can be found via updates on their social media.

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Dog days are far from over at this award-winning winery, which is set to feature live music and food trucks every weekend in May. On Mother’s Day, there will be music by local rock band Spoondrift from 1 to 5 p.m., as well as Lobster Rolls and More, a seafood-oriented food truck.

Working Dog is only for those 21 and older and does not take reservations.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs, pop-up tents, umbrellas and/ or blankets. Outside food, except for pizza and large hoagies, is allowed, and Working Dog has a list of suggested pairings at their website, workingdogwinerynj.com/our-wines. No outside beverages are permitted. Dogs are allowed outside on leashes only.

Wine from Working Dog is featured at Mercer County locations such as Padrino’s Bistro & Italian Steakhouse in Hamilton, Chambers Walk Cafe & Catering in Lawrenceville, and Villa Mannino in Bordentown.

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Hopewell Valley Vineyards

Old York Cellars

46 Yard Road, Pennington. Mother’s Day Brunch, Sunday, May 8, 11 a.m. $38.95 each adult plus gratuity ($46.74) and tax; $13.95 each child 10 and under plus gratuity ($16.74) and tax. Reserve by May 4. Regular Business Hours: Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Friday to Saturday noon to 8:30 p.m.; Sunday noon to 5 p.m. 609-737-4465 or www.hopewellvalleyvineyards.com.

80 Old York Road, Ringoes. Mother’s Day Weekend Celebration Friday through Sunday, May 6 to May 8, 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Regular Business Hours: Saturday to Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday 11:30 to 9 p.m. www.oldyorkcellars.com.

Hopewell Valley Vineyards’ menu for this brunch features their famous ricotta pancakes, brick oven breakfast pizzas, baked goods and more. Wine, mimosas and bellinis will be available for purchase.

Children under two are complimentary.

Old york Cellars offers cabanas that can be reserved to enjoy your wine and food.

Unionville Winery 9 Rocktown Road, Ringoes. Release weekend Saturdy and Sunday, May 14 and 15. Open noon to 5 p.m. daily. Wine tastings are $20 per person. 908-788-0400 or www.unionvillevineyards.com.

It’s release weekend for the newest edition of Unionville Winery’s three Rhône-inspired wines, the Hunterdon Mistral Series, which have a uniquely French background. General manager

John Cifelli explained that the inspiration came from the term for the intensely frigid, powerful wind that travels through Southern France to the coastland.

“The mistral is a wind that blows through the [Rhône] River Valley every spring, and so we named this collection of wines after the wind,” Cifelli said. The force gives grapes grown during the fierce weather a unique advantage. By

ridding the sky of clouds and the cooled vines of insects, the grapes are less likely to rot, making for a delicious, prized wine.

Tastings are by appointment at noon, 2, and 4 p.m. Guests can enjoy à la carte lunch options made-to-order by Skillman cafe Blawenburg Bistro, and there will also be live guitar music with singersongwriter James Popik on Sunday.

Mingling Spanish cuisine and luxury wine, Old York Cellars prides itself on its diversity, continuing that trend for Mother’s Day weekend. Anthony Rossi, director of B2B & partnerships, recommends that anyone looking to spend the holiday in style make reservations for Old York’s array of wine tasting experiences supplemented by live music acts and numerous culinary options.

For $55, the “Special Mother’s Day Platter & Wine” features an artisan board of Spanish chorizo, serrano ham, gouda and manchego cheese, olives, almonds and grapes. A pair of wine-infused cupcakes from BAM Desserts will be served in two flavors — chocolate with red wine, and vanilla with Old York’s Riesling wine. Also included are two chocolate truffles from The Fudge Shoppe, as well as a choice of a bottle of Old York’s red, white, or blush “What Exit” wine. see WINE, Page 6

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WINE, continued from Page 5

Laurita Winery

cally doing a live cooking paella demo on our patio. There’s music playing, people drinking wine and sangria. It’s a really nice vibe,” Rossi said of the experience, which also includes live music until 9 p.m.

There is wine and live music on Fridays, Saturdays and Memorial Day. Other events include wine and comedy nights on Saturdays, May 7 and 21, as well as the virtual Foreign Language Educators of NJ Wine Tasting Experience on May 13 to raise funds for senior scholarships. Tasting kits are $80 each.

Wine from Old York Cellars is featured at Mercer County restaurants such as Delorenzo’s Pizza in Hamilton and Local Greek in Princeton.

Old York’s online Mother Day’s gifts consist of wine or sangria gift box collections, wine-infused products, and other unique options like customized labels for wine at $20 per bottle.

85 Archertown Road, New Egypt.

SpringFest Food Truck Festival, Saturday, May 21, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday, May 22, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. $12 in advance; $14 at the door. Under 21 free. www.lauritawinery.com.

While Laurita Winery’s Mother’s Day Brunch is sold out, there will be one of the winery’s signature food truck festivals, SpringFest, on Saturday and Sunday, May 21 and 22. With fireworks on Saturday night, live music, and a free souvenir Laurita wine glass, the weekend can be used to spoil anyone, especially mothers.

Children are welcome but must be supervised. No pets or outside food or beverages are allowed, with bags subject to inspection for public safety. “Unique

YEARS

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The musical acts for Sunday, May 8, are rock singer-songwriter Josh Zuckerman, followed by the Mike Viscel OneMan Band, from noon to 6:30 p.m.

As part of its regular ensemble, “Chef José’s Wine and Tapas Experience” features Spanish tapas created by Old York’s Chef José Diaz in a “treat for the senses” available weekends at 2 p.m. for $40 per person.

“Chef José’s Six Course Pairing Experience” highlights Diaz’s “old world style” of Spanish cooking, taking guests through the courses and explaining “how the unique components of the food and wine create epicurean harmony,” as stated on the Old York website. The menu includes tapas, entrees, desserts and wine, available on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 5 p.m. for $70 per person.

The “Wine, Charcuterie and Chocolate Experience” features artisan meats and cheeses, as well as chocolate truffles, on weekends at 12:30 p.m. for $30 per person.

In addition to these tastings, weekend table reservations are open from Friday to Sunday. Old York has cabanas, available for weekday and weekend reservations. The cabanas can seat up to six people as they look over the vineyard, warmed by a fire pit, and guests at both the tables and cabanas may order from the winery food menu. Table reservations are $20 per person, and cabanas are $30 per person. $15 of each purchase is allocated towards credit for purchases while visiting the winery.

Beginning in late May, there are also plans to have “Paella on the Patio” every Friday night from 5 to 7 p.m.

“Chef José gets out the big pan, basi-

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and popular” food trucks in the lineup include: Cousins Maine Lobster, ColdStone Creamery, Shore Good Eats n Treats, Kiersten’s Creations, Mexi-Boys, REDs Pizza Express, Snack Shack, and 5 Sisters Food Co.

Cream Ridge Winery 145 County Road 539, Cream Ridge.

“Mom-Mosas,” Saturday, May 7, noon to 6 p.m., and Sunday, May 8, noon to 5 p.m.

Free admission. Regular Business Hours: Monday to Saturday, noon to 6 p.m.; Sunday noon to 5 p.m. www.creamridgewinery.com.

On Mother’s Day, kick back with a bubbly cocktail of Cream Ridge Winery’s sparkling Riesling and Seyval wine blend, Sparkling Personality, and tart orange juice. The last call is 30 minutes before closing.

Every weekend in May, like many of the wineries featured, Cream Ridge has live music, their performers playing from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, then 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday. For more sweet treats, Waffle Cabin Monmouth County Food Truck will be serving up hot Belgian waffles made with sugar pearls all of Sunday.

Tastings, glasses, and bottles are avail-

able for purchase. Children are welcome, and pets are allowed outside on leashes only. Coolers are subject to inspection for public safety.

For groups of six people and more, Cream Ridge requests patrons to call ahead, but otherwise, reservations are not required. Outside food is allowed, but no outside alcohol is permitted. Attendees are welcome to bring their own setup of chairs, tables, tents, etc. to get comfortable as they take in the 14 acres of vineyard. *** For other wine trails and Mother’s Day events throughout New Jersey, the Hunterdon Wine Trail goes across the county’s five wineries, which includes two of the Ringoes locations featured in this article — Beneduce Vineyards, Mount Salem Vineyards, Old York Cellars, The Federal Twist Vineyard and Unionville Vineyards — for what the Garden State Wine Growers Association calls “the ‘Napa Valley’ of New Jersey.” Tomasello Winery in Hammonton also has a Mother’s Day Brunch on May 8.

Regardless of if you visit these New Jersey wineries sometime in May or for Mother’s Day, there is little to “wine” about, as this part of the state certainly knows how to keep the celebration going.

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Farmers market b(l)ooming with vegan restaurants

By Jack Deegan

In recent years, the vegan movement has grown considerably, with new restaurants popping up every day as more and more people take to the lifestyle.

“When we first signed the lease for this place there was an article in Forbes about how the vegan movement was blowing up and we didn’t even think that would be a thing. We just wanted to do what we were doing!” says Francesca Avitto, co-owner of Lady and the Shallot. “When this place first opened, there wasn’t another vegan place from here to Princeton. We just want to see more healthy places and more vegan places open.”

Now more than ever, the vegan movement for a healthier lifestyle abstaining from using any animal products is becoming appealing to more people. People of all ages are switching to this lifestyle for health and to try and make the world a safer place.

8SIX09 | May 2022

“We have people from all different walks of life, we have old retired people trying to watch their health and then the young generation who’s gonna change the world, it’s amazing to see the different demographics that come in because it’s all over now,” Avitto says.

Before Lady and the Shallot opened, it would have been difficult to find a vegan restaurant near the Mercer County area.

Now, places like the Trenton Farmers Market is overflowing with healthy eating options that include two vegan restaurants: The Lady and the Shallot and the Savory Leaf Café.

Lady and the Shallot came onto the scene in 2018. Founders Francesca Avitto and Kate Wnek looked to make plant-based comfort foods that not only tasted good, but also made you feel good. It wasn’t always their goal to open up a vegan restaurant though. That came out of the blue on one fateful evening.

Francesca has been vegetarian since

she was 17, and went vegan five years ago. Kate decided to become vegan at the same time. “It was a big turnaround for me, I grew up eating everything, so it was hard for me to stop. But over time we just went with the flow,” she says.

The pair had a catering events company seven years ago, when they weren’t vegan. They cooked upscale catering, and did intimate dinner parties where they cooked in clients’ kitchens in the Princeton area.

“It was pretty cool, but it wasn’t as rewarding as making people feel healthy,” Francesca says.

They still do catering, and while at first their goals for the future were more along the lines of world domination, with locations everywhere making everyone in the world healthy, they have scaled those back a bit to something more realistic. Right now, their big future plan is to go all in on their sauces and to get them sold in stores.

“We really want to do a sauce line,”

Francesca says. “We’re really into our sauces, we think they’re really good, our customers love them. We started selling them and we want to do them wholesale to get them in really good supermarkets and have everyone able to eat a very healthy, limited-ingredient sauce,” Francesca said.

For a long time, the lack of vegan restaurants made it very difficult for people to adopt the lifestyle. “It was very hard to be vegan back then in 1997, you had to either go into Manhattan or cook it yourself! So that was the only thing that stopped me from being fully vegan,” Francesca says.

That same challenge is what led Eduardo Calderon to open up his vegan restaurant, Savory Leaf Cafe, at the Farmers Market back in 2019. For over a decade before opening, Eduardo had been a vegan and always struggled with finding healthy options.

Authentic and flavorful food has always been important to him, and it was

the idea of making good healthy food for good souls to enjoy.

“I’ve been a vegan for about 15 years now, and it was always difficult to find something to eat, so I kinda like, as a joke, said I’m going to open up my own place.

But it actually made sense, so that’s how it came about, out of necessity but it was actually a good opportunity,” Calderon says.

When it came to his vegan lifestyle, there wasn’t an overnight change where he stopped everything in favor of going vegan. It unfortunately came from some food poisoning that would end up changing his life forever.

“I got sick really bad one time from some cold cuts I had had, and from that point, I had stopped eating poultry and then a few months later just only fish and vegetables and then slowly taking one thing out,” he says.

Calderon worked in computer development for 15 years and finance for 20 years before deciding to switch careers again.

He wanted more control over his career, and found that in the restaurant industry.

As for where he learned how to cook, it’s a passion that he has been practicing and perfecting his entire life. Spending his childhood surrounded by food in a home where he was always cooking, he took to it naturally.

“I’ve always grown up cooking. I’m

Left: tacos from Lady and the Shallot. Right: ribs from Savory Leaf Café. Both of these vegan restaurants are in Trenton Farmers Market. (Facebook photos.) fortunate to have been raised in a home where we always were cooking,” he says. “My dad always used to say my last name, Calderon, was for someone who was always cooking!”

Calderon wanted to bring the flavors he grew up with into the vegan industry.

“What I wanted to do was take a lot of the foods that I enjoy already normally and take out all the other stuff, but keep the flavor still in there,” Eduardo said.

This all started with Savory Leaf’s signature dish, the vegan ribs. From there on out, all of the recipes were created by Calderon and his partner, Chris. They

even go as far as to make their own “cold cuts” for the sandwiches.

“My partner Chris and I came up with everything, It started off originally our main thing was ribs, and then we started looking into other kind of foods we could turn vegan, and we came up with it all ourselves,” Eduardo said.

One thing that makes Savory Leaf cafe different is the experimentation in their recipes. Calderon is determined to not let anything go to waste and wants to make the most of what he has, turning it all into something for people to enjoy.

“Right now something that we’re mak-

ing is pork sliders using banana peels.

We make banana bread here, and I was seeing a pile of peels and I started researching and seeing what other people were doing and I started using it and it became a hit!” Eduardo said.

Savory Leaf Cafe also has a food truck.

“People were asking if we could cater here, and from there I got the idea that it would be easier if we had some sort of vehicle to transport stuff around and cook in,” Calderon says.

Calderon wants to continue growing the business. “We’re in the process now of expanding into another location in the Mercer area, keeping this one as well, but in a more commercialized environment to test it out in the open outside of the farmers market,” he says.

Calderon is from Florida. He has been in the Trenton area for over 20 years. “My daughter moved here (for college), so I just kind of followed her up, and she finished school here and moved away and now I’m kind of stuck here! But I like the area a lot. It’s been very nice,” he says.

Both the Savory Leaf Cafe and the Lady and the Shallot are located at the Trenton Farmers Market at 960 Spruce St., Lawrence NJ 08648. More info about each restaurant can be found at either savoryleafcafe.com or facebook.com/ ladyandtheshallot.

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Although physicians and scientists But too much inflammation or are still collecting and analyzing data inflammation that continues for about people who suffered most severely from COVID-19 infections, a extended periods can lead to numerous health problems—and clear correlation between high body being overweight or obese is a mass index (BMI) and grave illness hyper inflammatory state. Hormonal from the virus emerged early in the changes associated with obesity pandemic. can affect important immune system Often referred to as an epidemic components such as infectionin the U.S., obesity is known to fighting t-cells. Deregulation of certain exacerbate serious health issues like hormones due to obesity weakens the heart disease, cancer and diabetes. immune system and makes the body Ragui Sadek, MD, FACS, director of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery more susceptible to infection.

Why are overweight people more at Robert Wood Johnson University likely to get seriously ill from a viral Hospital Hamilton (RWJUH Hamilton) infection? and Clinical Assistant Professor of When obese people experience Surgery at Rutgers Robert Wood a major respiratory infection, Johnson Medical School, explains how for example, they may lack excess weight affects infection risks.

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Experts devoted to all aspects of women’s health.

Saint Peter’s University Hospital has long been recognized as a leader in women’s health. Our services i genetic testing, nutritional counseling, and breast, gynecological and obstetrical care, as well as natura planning education, infertility services, and wellness programs. Plus, Saint Peter’s Women’s Imaging Ce accredited by the American College of Radiology as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence, offers mam and other diagnostic breast services, including stereotactic biopsy and needle localization, ultrasound density scanning for osteoporosis.

For expectant moms, Saint Peter’s has the resources to support every delivery — no matter how simple or from The Mary V. O’Shea Birth Center, New Jersey’s first and only hospital-owned midwifery-led birth ce state to be accredited by the Commission for the Accreditation of Birth Centers, to its state-designated R Perinatal Center and nationally recognized Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

To learn more about women’s health services at Saint Peter’s University Hospital, call 732.745.8600 or visit saintpetershcs.com/womenshealth

Safely treating you better...for life.

Sponsored by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Metuchen

Experts devoted to all aspects of women’s health.

Saint Peter’s University Hospital has long been recognized as a leader in women’s health. Our services include genetic testing, nutritional counseling, and breast, gynecological and obstetrical care, as well as natural family planning education, infertility services, and wellness programs. Plus, Saint Peter’s Women’s Imaging Center, accredited by the American College of Radiology as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence, offers mammography and other diagnostic breast services, including stereotactic biopsy and needle localization, ultrasound, and bone density scanning for osteoporosis.

For expectant moms, Saint Peter’s has the resources to support every delivery — no matter how simple or complex — from The Mary V. O’Shea Birth Center, New Jersey’s first and only hospital-owned midwifery-led birth center in the state to be accredited by the Commission for the Accreditation of Birth Centers, to its state-designated Regional Perinatal Center and nationally recognized Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

To learn more about women’s health services at Saint Peter’s University Hospital, call 732.745.8600 or visit saintpetershcs.com/womenshealth

May 2022 | SIX0913

Paragon Sport Spine & Wellness Resources for Pelvic Health Most of us have heard the term pelvic floor, but do you know what it is and what it does?

The pelvic floor is everything inside the bowl of the bony pelvis. It contains the pelvic organs, the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissue, and all the nerves and blood vessels that supply these structures. The pelvic floor muscles have four main functions: they control your bladder and bowel continence, assist in sexual function, stabilize your pelvis, and provide support to the pelvic organs.

How prevalent is pelvic floor dysfunction and what are common conditions that people seek treatment for?

Some studies have found that more than a third of individuals who identify as a female have pelvic floor dysfunction — so chances are you or someone else you know suffers from this.

You may not think you have pelvic floor dysfunction but do any of these scenarios sound familiar?

• Do you have to cross your legs when you sneeze or avoid running and jumping activities due to leaking urine?

• Do you avoid long car rides or restrict fluid intake in fear of not making the bathroom in time?

Or do you urinate frequently (>10x/day or >1x at night)

• Do you have pain with use of tampons or have pain with intercourse?

• Do you have pain in your pelvic region — genitals, perineum, rectum or tailbone?

• Do you feel like you cannot completely empty your bowels or bladder and have to go back soon after to try again?

What does treatment consist of?

If you experience any of these symptoms a visit to a qualified pelvic floor therapist is recommended. The evidence for pelvic floor therapy is strong. There have been multiple studies and reviews published that demonstrate grade A evidence for pelvic floor rehab as a first line treatment for most of the aforementioned conditions.

Your treatment will be individualized to your specific presentation and goals utilizing a full body approach. Treatment consists of patient education, strategies, and removal of negative barriers to recovery in addition to specific therapies that many include internal release, pelvic repositioning strategies, pelvic floor muscle down training and relaxation, pelvic strengthening exercises, bladder retraining, biofeedback, and core/ hip strengthening.

In addition, Paragon Sport Spine & Wellness offers a full host of orthopedic rehabilitation services including physical & occupational therapy, chiropractic, and acupuncture for most all musculoskeletal aches and pains. For more information, visit www.paragonssw.com or call us at 609-686-2050.

NJ’s Favorite Family Dentist

Doctors Aisling Linehan and Magdalen Link are pelvic floor physical therapists at Paragon Sport Spine & Wellness in Robbinsville.

Paragon Sport Spine & Wellness, 17 Main Street, Suite 403, Robbinsville. 609-686-2050. www.paragonssw.com. See ad, page 12.

Pediatric and Family Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry Orthodontic Services

hamiltondental.com 2929 Klockner Road Hamilton Square, NJ 08690 609-359-0063

14SIX09 | May 2022

2501 Kuser Road Hamilton, NJ 08691 609-403-3217

Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute Experts in Compassionate Treatment of Patients in Pain Dr. Ronak Patel MD is the founder and medical director of Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute. Ronak Patel, MD, is a double boardcertified in anesthesiology and pain management. He leads a team of medical professionals dedicated to resolving chronic pain in all its forms.

Dr. Patel specializes in the treatment of back pain, neck pain, joint pain, and facial pain as well as cancer-related pain. While training across the country with leaders in pain management, Dr. Patel acquired advanced skills in innovative spinal cord and peripheral nerve interventions/ablation, fracture repair through vertebral augmentation, state-of-the-art regenerative therapy, and both ultrasound-guided and X-ray guided procedures. He is an active member of several pain societies and has presented several times at national anesthesiology and pain medicine conferences.

Dr. Patel grew up in New Jersey and is excited to return to the area and help serve his community.

Having experienced a sports injury to his spine that required extensive rehabilitation and ultimately spinal injections, he understands what it means to be a patient in pain. Dr. Patel takes great pride in his gentle bedside manner and believes in spending time with his patients in order to fully understand their pain condition, develop an individualized treatment plan, and help regain functionality. His goal as a pain management doctor is to bring expert, comprehensive, safe, and effective pain care to as many patients as possible.

The practice offers an extensive range of non-surgical treatments for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal disorders. It aims to help patients avoid surgery by embracing a variety of traditional and alternative solutions to long-term pain and using minimally invasive techniques to deliver effective treatments. While their particular focus is on orthopedic

Dr. Ronak Patel MD care for back and neck pain, the Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute providers have expertise in treating conditions as varied as arthritis, fibromyalgia, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), peripheral neuropathy, and migraines.

The innovative, multimodal approach of Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute targets the source of chronic pain wherever possible, using regenerative medicine methods such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), stem cell, and exosome injections. These natural, biological therapies use the patient’s healing cells in concentrated form to stimulate faster and more vigorous healing of damaged and diseased tissues.

Other treatments available include viscosupplementation for knee pain, peripheral nerve stimulation and spinal cord stimulation, physiotherapy, vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty, epidural injections and joint injections containing steroid medication, an extensive range of nerve blocks, and radiofrequency ablation. Dr. Patel is also a certified prescriber of medical marijuana under the State of New Jersey’s Medicinal Marijuana Program.

Patients of Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute benefit from the availability of same-day or next-day appointments and secure telehealth technology for remote consultations.

Call 609-269-4451 or visit www. njpaindoc.com now to book your first consultation. See ad, page 3.

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

May 2022 | SIX0915

NJ Heart & Vascular Care Kintu Sanghvi MD’s Message for Mother’s Day The women in our lives are so busy taking care of their husbands, their kids, their parents while still using their skills and intelligence in their career that they often ignore their own health. Women present very differently with cardiovascular conditions in comparison to men.

Females with severe heart artery blockage (CAD) do not typically present with the classic angina or chest pain, but present with rather atypical symptoms, particularly with shortness of breath on exertion.

First, they commonly ignore these symptoms and then commonly blame it on lack of exercise or weight gain.

This leads to missed diagnoses and translates into increased suffering. It was my privilege to take care of one such mom, daughter, and wife: Arlette Brown.

Here is her story in her own words: “I was pretty fit till my mid 40s. At that point, work pressures increased, and at the same time as my parents’

health started to decline. And my son was a high level hockey player — I didn’t want to miss anything.

An only child, I’m blessed that my husband and son were a huge help and support, but I got the all-hour phone calls when things weren’t going well.

My mom had first stent in her early 60s, bypass in mid 60s, congestive heart failure at 70. She passed at 77, in 2018.

At that point my 83-year-old dad was worn out from caring for my mom. His physical health wasn’t bad, but he was mentally drained, easily overwhelmed, had early dementia, and took everything out on me. At this point I think I started to get symptoms of high blood pressure that I ignored.

He spent most weekends with us till we finally convinced him to move closer to us in an assisted living facility.

I was fortunate to be able to work from home during COVID, but this ended up being 10-12 hour days sitting. When I tried to work out, I had no energy. I started to get winded just going up a flight of stairs and

by February of this year had a few incidents leaving me completely winded and had what I now realize

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

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16SIX09 | May 2022

were chest pains. (I’m asthmatic, so having a tight chest wasn’t unusual, but I realized this pain was different) I couldn’t sleep more than two hours without waking to some chest pain. I finally realized something was wrong.

I reached out to my primary care doctor and was quickly referred to Dr. Sanghvi. I was evaluated with utmost attention to the details. I was investigated methodically in a stepwise fashion and diagnosed with a severe 90 percent blockage in my proximal left anterior descending artery (also described as the widowmaker).

This was successfully opened with a stent, in a minimally invasive procedure going through my wrist artery, and I was discharged home the same day after a few hours. Dr. Sanghvi kept me well informed at each step with extensive details.

I felt better immediately and am looking forward to re-focusing on a healthier heart lifestyle. I thought I was strong enough to overcome genetics…not so much!

Pay attention to yourself and your

NJ Heart & Vascular Care patient Arlette Brown. symptoms!”

NJ Heart & Vascular Care, 10 Forrestal Road South #207, Princeton. 609-759-9660. www. njheartandvascularcare.com. See ad, page 18.

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Medical Acucare A Personalized Approach to Your Health By focusing on every dimension of your health and well-being, Medical Acucare aims to alleviate, if not reverse, the symptoms and progression of chronic diseases.

Dr. Qingdi Geng, the founder of Medical Acucare, is board certified in Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine. She works in the central New Jersey area and draws on over 10 years of clinical experience in treating a variety of medical conditions. Throughout her practice, she discovered that conventional medical treatments are effective in managing most acute conditions — like a broken bone or a stroke — but often fall short in improving chronic diseases.

This motivated her to pursue advanced training in Acupuncture and Functional Medicine. Now, she combines the best of conventional medicine, functional medicine, and acupuncture to identify the root causes of her patients’ chronic issues and optimize their health and wellness.

Promoting Women’s Health. Dr.

Geng has a deep understanding of the unique challenges that women face as they navigate the healthcare system, especially those who are undergoing perimenopause or menopause as well as other difficult transitions. Knowing the frustration of having your symptoms minimized or simply attributed to aging, Dr. Geng pays particular attention to hormone imbalance, digestive dysfunction, autoimmune issues, and other conditions that often afflict women during these periods.

After taking the time to get to know her patients well, she runs comprehensive and tailored lab tests, recommends lifestyle modifications suitable for the individual, and offers personalized treatment plans that help her patients to restore their balance and vitality.

Advocating Cardiovascular Health. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States.

It is well known that high cholesterol, hypertension, and diabetes put individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease. However, patients with chronic inflammation are also at much higher risk of heart attack and stroke.

Dr. Geng has a wealth of experience treating conditions that can potentially lead to systemic inflamma-

tion including obesity, gut dysbiosis, and various autoimmune diseases.

Medical Acucare prioritizes cardiovascular health, working with patients to further assess and lessen their risk through targeted lifestyle modifications and advanced cardiovascular assessments.

Tackling Weight Loss. Since many health issues stem from unwanted weight gain, Dr. Geng takes a holistic approach to assisting in weight loss and alleviating metabolic dysfunction. She focuses on helping people to discover the root causes behind their unwanted weight gain, whether it is unhealthy eating habits, hormonal imbalance, chronic inflammation, or insulin resistance.

Medical Acucare also maintains collaborative partnerships with local and remote health coaches and nutritionists to help our patients form healthy habits, rebuild their confidence, and sustain their weight loss long-term.

Acupuncture. While acupuncture is well known for treating back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis, it is also highly effective in reducing the frequency of tension headaches and migraines. Moreover, there is a growing body of evidence that shows acupuncture can trigger the release of beneficial hormones, including

Dr. Qingdi Geng endorphins.

For more than five years, Dr. Geng has been using acupuncture to treat neck and back pain, weight loss, indigestion, urinary incontinence, insomnia, and anxiety. Since acupuncture rarely has major side effects, like prescribed medications or surgeries, it is a great option for people who want to take a more natural and less invasive treatment approach.

Medical Acucare, 2087 Klockner Road, Suite 5, Hamilton www.medical­ acucare.com. See ad, page 15.

After practicing practicing ininaalegendary academic teaching hospital for After legendary academic teaching 11 years in New Jersey, acquiring experience of over 10,000 hospital for 11 years in New Jersey, acquiring experience cardiovascular publishing multiple publishing research of over 10,000procedures, cardiovascular procedures, articles, book chapters, and training over 100 cardiologists, multiple research articles, book chapters, and training Dr. Sanghvi has opened NJ Heart & Vascular Care to over 100 cardiologists, Sanghvi has opened NJ and provide what is missing: ADr. personalized, compassionate Heart & Vascular Carecardiovascular to provide what missing: comprehensive tertiary careislocally with A easy personalized, compassionate, and comprehensive access.

tertiary cardiovascular care locally with easy access.

“It is truly a privilege to provide cutting edge, evidence “It is truly a privilege to provide cutting edge, evidence based, comprehensive cardiovascular care to each based, comprehensive cardiovascular care to each patient, one at a time."

patient, one at a time.”

Scan to Learn LearnMore More Scanthe the QR QR Code Code to Hamilton Princeton Hamilton Princeton 2111 Klockner Rd, 10 Forrestal Road S 2111 Klockner Rd, 10 Forrestal Rd S Hamilton Square, NJ Suite 207 Hamilton Square, NJ Suite 207 08690 Princeton, NJ 08540 08690 Princeton, NJ 08540 18SIX09 | May 2022

Peripheral Artery Peripheral Artery Disease Disease

Transcatheter Aortic Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Valve Replacement

Coronary Angioplasty Coronary andAngioplasty Stenting and Stenting

Vein Ablation Vein Ablation

Call us at 609-759-9660 or Book Online at NJHVC.com Call us at 609-759-9660 or Book Online at NJHVC.com

their 30s and 40s.

Endometriosis can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the outer surface of the uterus, the lining of the pelvic cavity, the vagina, the cervix Endometriosis Treatment and other parts of the body including with Robotic Precision the bowel, bladder and rectum.

Saint Peter’s University Hospital Symptoms include inflammation and has long been acknowledged as scar tissue that can cause pelvic a leader in women’s health for its pain and infertility. Sometimes the nationally recognized obstetrical endometrial tissue binds organs and gynecological care, including together or grows into the ovaries or the diagnosis and treatment of blocks fallopian tubes. Endometriosis endometriosis. Dusan Perisic, MD, may be found in up to half of women FACOG, the director of Minimally with significant pelvic pain or painful Invasive Gynecologic Surgery at Saint periods and up to 70 percent of Peter’s and the associate program women with infertility. director of the hospital’s Obstetrics To treat endometriosis, women and Gynecology Residency Program, can undergo robotic surgery where is skilled in treating endometriosis endometriotic lesions are excised, through robotic-assisted surgery via endometriotic cysts are removed from the da Vinci® Surgical System. the ovaries and scar tissue in the Endometriosis is a disease of pelvis is broken and removed. With the women’s reproductive system. this type of conservative surgery, It occurs when endometrium — the women can gain relief while also tissue that lines the uterus or womb retaining their fertility. Endometriosis — grows outside of the uterus on can also be treated with a robotic other organs of the body. More than hysterectomy, where the uterus is five million women in the U.S. have removed. Robotic surgery can also endometriosis. While it can occur be used to remove the fallopian tubes during the teen years and in any and ovaries, eliminating the disease. woman who still has a menstrual The da Vinci Surgical System period, it is most common in women in puts a surgeon’s hands at the

Saint Peter’s University Hospital

controls of a state-of-the-art robotic platform, enabling them to perform even the most complex and delicate procedures through very small incisions with unmatched precision.

It is a sophisticated robotic platform designed to expand the surgeon’s capabilities and offer a minimally invasive option for major surgery.

The surgeon makes small incisions in the patient to introduce miniaturized instruments with wrist-like movements and a high-definition 3D camera.

Seated at the da Vinci console, Dr. Perisic views a magnified, highresolution 3D image of the surgical site. At the same time, state-of-the-art robotic and computer technologies scale, filter and seamlessly translate Dr. Perisic’s hand movements into precise micro-movements of the wristed instruments. The system cannot be programmed, nor can it make decisions on its own. All movements are performed by the surgeon at the console.

Women who undergo robotic surgery for endometriosis experience less pain and less bleeding and can expect to go home the same day and return to work in one week.

To learn more about gynecologic surgery at Saint Peter’s, visit

Dusan Perisic, MD, FACOG, the director of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery at Saint Peter’s University Hospital. saintpetershcs.com/gynsurgery. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Perisic, call 732-339-7762.

See ad, page 13.

May 2022 | SIX0919

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Professional inspection services for Termites, Radon, and Mold.

•Renovations •Remodeling •Decks •Kitchens/Baths •Drywall •Siding •Repairs •Snow Plowing

Larry Feldman (609)658-5213 LarryFeldman51@gmail.com

A G U E

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L E A P

Advertise for $69 a month. For more information call 609-396-1511

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

classified HELP WANTED Dog walker wanted.

2 times a day. Small dogs walk together.

Live in west Windsor.

Pls call 609-477-9863.

Dog sitter wanted for different days and times.

TRAVEL SALES Earn valuable commissions selling travel as outside agent. Training provided. Diamond Cruise & Travel.

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SERVICES F,D,Mason Contractor, Over 30 years of experience.

Brick, Block, Stone, Concrete. No job too large or small.

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Free Estimates 908-385-5701 Lic#13VH05475900.

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LEGAL SERVICES -Wills, Power of Attorney, Real Estate, Federal and NJ Taxes, Education Law. House calls available. Bruce Cooke, Esq. 609-7994674.

FOR SALE Gas range Frigidaire Gallery 30” free standing, 1 year old like new. $700. 609313-4603.

WANTED TO BUY Wanted: Baseball, football, basketball, hockey.

Cards, autographs, photos, memorabilia.

Highest cash prices paid! Licensed corporation, will travel.

4thelovofcards, 908596-0976. allstar115@ verizon.net.

Looking to buy old Mysteries, Science Fiction, Children’s Illustrated, Signed books, kids series books (old Hardy boys-Nancy DrewJudy Bolton- Dana girls, The Happy Hollisters, ect WITH DUSTJACKETS in good shape), old postcards, nonsports cards, good conditioned pre 1975 paperbacks (also Avon,Popular Library, Dell, Ace, BEACON, Monarch, Midwood pbs) old COSMOPOLITAN 1920’s-1940’s. Call 609-619-3480 or email happyheroes@gmail. com.

Cash paid for World War II military items.

Helmets, swords, medals, etc. Call 609-581-8290 or email mymilitarytoys@ optonline.net Cash paid for SELMER SAXOPHONES and other vintage models. 609-5818290 or email mymilitarytoys@ optonline.net VACATION RENTALS Florida Beach Rental: Fort Myers Beach 1br vacation condo on the beach, flexible dates available. Call 609577-8244 for further

information COMMERCIAL SPACE EWING, NJ / MERCER COUNTY 48,000 SF WAREHOUSE DIVISIBLE 35,000 SF / 13,000 SF, 24’ CLEAR 609-883-7900 / 201-488-4000 Hamilton/ Allentown BorderCommercial end unit for leaseApprox 1090sf, Ideal for medical/ professional offices, services, studio & retail store. Highly traveled visible location . Easy access to NJTP, Rt.130, I95. $2,400/ month. DiDonato Realty 609-586-2344/ Marian Conte BR 609947-4222.

BUSINESS FOR SALE Salon for sale- excellent opportunity. Priced to sell. Relocating out of state.

Large space, great potential. Call 609462-0188.

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doing and consider much more than they ever considered. We all know what we know, you know what I mean? You have got to weed through all those negative comments and Facebook about it.

LG: That why I don’t go on Facebook anymore, unless it’s for work.

KN: Yeah. It’s a depressing situation.

Cannabis in Lawrence

LG: The state is now in the process of implementing recreational cannabis rules, and we’re getting to the point where dispensaries will be opening throughout New Jersey, including Lawrence. Can you talk a little bit about how Lawrence Township approached cannabis.

KN: We thought it was important for us to get out in front of setting the policy and planning for retail cannabis operators. And the council—I think they were all publicly supportive. There was no argument about whether or not to have it. We were a community that was open to it.

But we but we didn’t want to make it like a free-forall. So we acted early to set the record and provide the ordinance for a ver y limited area for the retail sale of cannabis along Route 1, because we did not want it into the neighborhoods.

I’ve been in Massachusetts and some other places, and they have cannabis sites right near houses, like developments, and lines of people walking on in. It just kind of resonated with me. Like, “Wow, this is not a good situation.”

LG: Yeah, that would not work in New Jersey.

KN: Yeah, so we were really mindful to not repli-

cate that at all. One of the advantages of New Jersey not being one of the first to do it is that we got to sit back and see what the problems were in other states and to be able to resolve them.

So, we think we made the right decision in terms of placing it along Route 1, away from housing developments and making it more of a destination site as opposed to a casual walk-by or bike-ride situation.

And we locations where there are retail sales to the public to two. Zen Leaf is one. They’re a billiondollar company that does these things well, and they know what they’re doing and so far, they’ve done well. We don’t even really know it’s there.

The second is the old Crab Shack site (on Route 1 South near the Route 295 interchange). That property has been vacant for a while now, and we all thought, “Wow, that would be a great site (for a cannabis dispensar y), because it’s a destination site.”

It’s really buffered, and it’s larger, so it could be a good site for a dual situation—retail plus also a finalstage type of operator and there’s an agreement in place for a site to be there pending approval from the state.

They were ver y pro-cannabis people—advocates—who reached out to me and were pushing to have one in the Lawrence Shopping Center. That doesn’t resonate with me. We don’t need that at this point.

So, it’s going to be there (the Crab Shack site) and one of the ser vices there will be a deliver y ser vice.

So location is going to be less important as opposed to having easy access to it.

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The former site of Joe’s Crab Shack restaurant on Route 1 south is expected to be the location of a new recreational cannabis dispensary in Lawrence Township.

LG: A deliver y ser vice?

KN: Another business is a deliver y ser vice, just like Doordash. You can go online and order and there will be a dedicated company that delivers cannabis.

LG: That’s going to be at the Crab Shack location, or a totally separate one?

KN: No, it’s just deliver y—a deliver y license. So, it’s not they’re not going to be delivering out of a retail site.

LG: Has anybody applied for grow or manufacturing licenses in town?

KN: Well they don’t apply with the township. The way the process goes is a

that a company can identify a location within a town, and then enter into some type of contingent lease agreement.

They tie themselves contractually to this, and then they could go to the town saying, “This is our company. This is where we plan to be.” They need a resolution from the council in support of that to go along with their application to the state for the license. That’s happened twice for us for the retail, and we approved resolutions for those.

We have one manufacturer situation that’s pending. I can’t reveal it to you at this time.

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8  Lawrence Gazette | May 2022

sports

930 Spruce Street, Lawrence, NJ 08648 |Main Line: (609)-989-6522 Fax : (609)-278-2713 | BoardofElections@mercercounty.org

DePaz celebrates 100 saves for LHS girls’ Lacrosse

By Rich Fisher

It was a cold, rainy April night and the Lawrence High girls lacrosse team was en route to a one-sided loss to Notre Dame.

But in the midst of the bleak day and even bleaker game, Cardinals coach Heather Phillips could not help but scream out to junior goalie Izzy DePaz “Oh my gosh, I love you!”

What could have prompted this outburst?

Basically, it was just Izzy being Izzy.

“I could hear her on the sideline while she was communicating with the defense,” Phillips said. “She wasn’t just talking, she was yelling in a good, positive way. She was communicating with the defense, trying to help them out. And when a shot goes off you can hear her. It’s a great personality and attitude to have. She literally loves being out there.”

“I work hard and I’m trying to get better,” said DePaz, who has the kind of name that belongs on a Broadway marquee. “There’s always room for improvement.”

DePaz has made rapid improvement considering she did not play goalie until high school. After just one-and-a-half seasons in the varsity nets, she recorded her 100th career save in a victory over Stuart Apr. 11.

Unaware that she recorded the milestone until the bus ride home, DePaz got a delayed celebration from her teammates.

“I knew I was getting close but I didn’t know I was going to hit it during that game,” she said. “After they told me I hit one hundred, everybody on the bus started screaming, and then they got me flowers and a card.

It was really nice. I love them so much.”

Izzy’s journey to 100 (with many more to come) began at age 7 when her dad prompted her to try lacrosse. She quickly fell in love with it; but did not like her few attempts playing in goal, as she feared the ball coming at her a bit too much.

“We were all young, we all just played different positions,” she recalled. “I think that’s why I fell in love with being a goalie, because it’s like the head of the defense. But when you’re little, it’s kind of scary.”

By fifth grade, DePaz needed a break and gave it up to focus on schoolwork. As time went by, a yearning for the sport was reignited and when she got to LHS, the effervescent battler knew she would return to it. After playing tennis in the fall, Izzy went out for lacrosse as a freshman and showed promise before the COVID-19 shutdown hit.

She planned on playing defense, but when Phillips asked for volunteers to play

930 Spruce Street, Lawrence, NJ 08648 |Main Line: (609)-989-6522 Fax : (609)-278-2713 | BoardofElections@mercercounty.org

930 Spruce Street, Lawrence, NJ 08648 |Main Line: (609)-989-6522 goalie for the JV team, DePaz jumped at the : (609)-278-2713 | NJ BoardofElections@mercercounty.org chance.

930Fax Spruce Street, Lawrence, 08648 |Main Line: (609)-989-6522 “The second I was in there I was like ‘This Fax : (609)-278-2713 | BoardofElections@mercercounty.org is what I want to do,” she said. “I love the dedication to doing it and the dedication of your team and wanting to be there for them.

The support is just really nice.”

As “the head of the defense” as she so aptly put it, DePaz is now providing that same kind of encouragement to her defenders, who include Radini Wijesuriya, Siani Saunders, Rebecca Maccaroni and Maia Coyle.

“The main part of it is all about commuAre you eligible to serve? nication,” DePaz said. “If we’re all commuYES! If you are registered to vote in Mercer County.*** nicating in a way that flows then we can all YES! If you are able to read and write legibly. work together. The defense is like a little YES! If you can lift at least 50 lbs. (the weight of opening a voting machine) without difficulty. family. I think when everyone is as close as we are it works out.”

After practicing with her dad last summer, ***YES! If you’re age 16 and older!

We participate in a state-wide program that hires high school students for half-day shifts.

DePaz plans on doing more this year.

Call for more details!

“I want to go further with it and keep working harder,” she said. “I think camps and stuff like that will definitely help me; and getting a different perspective from different What is the Compensation?

What do I have to do? people who can help me in different ways.”

• Full Day shift is $300 • File application & notify the Board of availability each year As it was, just working with friends and 5:15 AM to 8:00 PM • Attend 2 Hour Training family last year made a difference in Phillips Are you eligible to serve?

Are you eligible to• Half serve?

• Setup and operate voting machines, equipment and Day Shift is $150: eyes. “Her hard work is showing this year, supplies AM-5:15 AM to 1:00 PM YES! If you are registered to vote in Mercer County.*** YES! If you are registered to vote in Mercer County.*** she took the off-season and made herself YES!• Process If you voters are registered to votePoll in Mercer using electronic Book County.*** PM- 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM better,” the coach said. “She was dedicated YES! YES! Ifyou you areable able to read and write legibly.

• Pick up and/or return Election Day supplies if selected Ifto are towrite read and write legibly.

Students Hours Vary YES! If you are able read and legibly. and willing to work hard, and also willing to weight of opening a voting machine) without difficulty.

YES! IfIfyou youcan canliftliftat at least YES! least 5050 lbs.lbs. (the(the weight of opening a voting machine) without difficulty. learn. She’s always learning.”YES! If you can lift at least 50 lbs. (the weight of opening a voting machine) without difficulty.

Board Workers are needed for the…Election Day and Early Voting!

Especially in the classroom, where DePaz sports a 3.7 grade point average. She prides For more information visit ***YES! If you’re age age 16 please and older! ***YES! If you’re 16 and older! herself on academics and is searching for http://www.mercercounty.org/boards-commissions/board-of-elections We in in a state-wide program thatthat hireshires highhigh school students for half-day shifts.shifts.

Weparticipate participate a state-wide program school students for half-day some internships in the field in Environmen***YES! If you’re agedetails!

16 and older!

Call for more Call for more details! tal Science. As she looks into colleges, if a We participate in a state-wide program that hires high school students for half-day shifts. lacrosse offer comes along she would certainly consider it. .

Call for more details!

“If the opportunity arose I would go for it 100%,” DePaz said. “I know everyone would WhatWhat is theisCompensation?

What dodo I have to do? the Compensation?

What I have to do? have my back. You’ve gotta be optimistic.

“I’m obsessed with watching college • File application & notify the Board of availability each year • Full Day shift is $300 • Full Day shift is $300 File application & notify the Board of availability each year games. A lot of people in my family went to ••Attend 5:15 AM to 8:00 PM 2 Hour Training 5:15 AM to 8:00 PM • Attend 2 Hour Training Temple so I enjoy watching the Temple girls • Setup and operate votingto machines, and What I have do? equipment • Half Day ShiftWhat is $150:is the Compensation? and the Syracuse girls play. It’s just really • Setup anddo operate voting machines, equipment and • Half Day Shift is $150: supplies inspiring to watch them and you think ‘If AM-5:15 AM to 1:00 PM supplies AM-5:15 AM$300 to 1:00 PM Process voters using electronic Poll Book each year they can do it, I can definitely•doFile it.’”application•& • Full Day shift PM1:00 PM tois8:00 PM notify the Board of availability • Process voters using electronic Poll Book PM- 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM Phillips, who played for Division III power- • Pick up and/or return Election Day supplies if selected Students Hours Vary 5:15 AM to 8:00 PMVary • Pick up and/or return Election Day supplies if selected • Attend Hour Training house The College of New Jersey, also 2feels Students Hours her goalie can do it.

• Setup and operate voting machines, equipment and • Half Day $150:Voting!

“We’ll have to reach out to some coaches Board Workers are needed for the…Election DayShift andisEarly and see what she’s interested supplies in,” Phillips Board Workers are needed for the…Election Day and Early AM-5:15 AM to 1:00Voting!

PM said. “She could probably play D II or D III, For more information please visit • Process voters using electronic Poll Book something like that.”

PM-visit 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM For more information please http://www.mercercounty.org/boards-commissions/board-of-elections If so, DePaz may find a whole new • Pick upcoach and/or return Election Day supplies if selected Students Hours Vary http://www.mercercounty.org/boards-commissions/board-of-elections who loves her.

YOUR CHANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN A PRIMARY & GENERAL ELECTION

Are you eligible to serve?

Are you eligible to serve?

egistered to vote in Mercer County.*** able to read and write legibly. ift at least 50 lbs. (the weight of opening a voting machine) without difficulty.

***YES! If you’re age 16 and older! rticipate in a state-wide program that hires high school students for half-day shifts.

Call for more details!

What do I have to do?

& notify the Board of availability each year Training

What is the Compensation?

• Full Day shift is $300 5:15 AM to 8:00 PM

May 2022 | Lawrence Gazette9

workers here and across America. To share your thanks or to support our Emergency Response Fund,

Coping with leakage and other pelvic problems visit rwjbh.org/heroes

And please, for them, stay home and safe.

tant to distinguish because their causes is best for the patient. It’s all about how bothersome patients find a condition and and treatments are different.

Stress- or activity-related incontinence what their priorities are.

Learn how physical therapy can occurs when activities like laughing, coughing, sneezing or exercises cause improve pelvic health in women and See our ads in men on June 16, from 10-11 urine to leak. Urgency SIX09 section a.m. Explore what the pelincontinence is associated pgs 5 and 7 vic floor muscles are and with sudden urges to use The pelvic floor may be one of the most the bathroom with little how they can affect condioverlooked areas of the body—until it warning due to bladder tions like bladder urgency, Heroes Work Here_4.313x11.25_HAM.indd 1 4/17/20 1:21 PM not stops RWJ-104 working properly.

A collection of nerves and muscles incontinence, constipation, muscles and connective tissues, the pel- working properly. It’s genpain with intimacy and vic floor holds in place organs such as the erally associated with age more with class educator, bladder, rectum, bowels and uterus.

Michele Dela Rosa, PT, but also neurodegenerative “What can happen in women over time conditions.

DPT, PRPC. is that—as a result of factors such as This free community Why do some women aging, being pregnant, having vaginal or hold back from care? education event is spontraumatic delivery, going through multi- Issues like leakage have sored by Robert Wood Dr. Dalal ple deliveries or having a genetic predis- been normalized. Women Johnson University Hospiposition—the pelvic floor can weaken and are conditioned to live with tal Hamilton and is an innot function as well,” says Kunali Dalal, incontinence and compensate by wearing person class held at RWJ Health & WellMD, Gynecology, OB/GYN at Robert pads, changing undergarments, minimiz- ness Center at 3100 Quakerbridge Road Wood Johnson University Hospital Ham- ing water intake or limiting social activ- in Hamilton. Call the Health Connection ilton. “That dysfunction can manifest as ity. Lack of awareness also contributes at 609-584-5900 or visit rwjbh.org/events several conditions.” to making some problems seem taboo. to register online.

Unfortunately, women often dismiss Women may not want to bring the subject To schedule an appointment at RWJ these conditions or find them embarrass- up with a doctor.

Rehabilitation Hamilton, Pelvic Floor ing. “There’s not enough awareness that What can women do? Pelvic floor and Incontinence physical therapy, treatments are available,” Dr. Dalal says. exercises can improve or halt progres- visit: rwjbh.org/treatment-care/pelvicShe explains what can go wrong—and sion of activity-related incontinence and floor-and-incontinence-therapy or call what to do. pelvic organ prolapse. But many women 609-584-6640.

What problems can result from a don’t know how to do them properly, so weak pelvic floor? Three are especially they could benefit from consulting a phy- Coming up this month at common. One is pelvic organ prolapse, sician or pelvic floor physical therapist.

RWJU Hospital Hamilton in which weakened muscles allow one Intravaginal devices can help with pelTo register for a program or for schedule or more pelvic organs to drop or press vic organ prolapse and activity related changes call (609) 584-5900. For more informainto the vagina. This often causes vaginal leakage. Medication can help with tion, go to rwjbh.org/hamilton. pressure and a palpable vaginal bulge. It’s urgency incontinence. And a variety of not dangerous, but it is progressive and procedures can be used to treat all three TUESDAY, MAy 10 may worsen over time. Then there are conditions. I take a shared decision-mak- The Spa Within: A Meditation Experience for Everyone. 6:30 to 8 p.m. We will feed two types of incontinence. They’re impor- ing approach to decide which method the body with a few simple movements

Ask The Doctor

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10  Lawrence Gazette | May 2022

to clear and ground us. We feed the mind with a poem, then lead on a guided meditation to beauty, ease and peace. We round it off with tones of singing bowls. Carol Ann Meier $15. Coordinated by Patti McDougall, Integrative RN.

Thursday, MAy 12

“Love Your Heart” Discussion Group. 6 to 7:30 p.m. Difficult emotions, like depression, as well as unhealthy nutrition can put us at risk for heart disease. Join us to explore the connection between food and mood. Recipe tasting and discussion.

Alyssa Luning, RD, CSOWM and Patti McDougall, Patti McDougall, Integrative RN.

Friday, MAy 13

The Science of Flavor. A Virtual Program.

10 to 11 a.m. Enjoy this program from the comfort of your home. Have you ever caramelized onions or roasted garlic? How delicious! But why? Discover how different ingredients and cooking methods can influence the outcomes of some of our basic favorite foods. Based on science! Alyssa Luning, RD, CSOWM.

TUESDAY, MAy 17

Private Reiki Sessions. Also June 21 and July 19, 3 to 7 p.m. by appointment only. Enjoy the profound relaxation of a private Reiki session. Reiki is a form of Energy Medicine to help relax the body and soothe the soul. $60/hr. Patti McDougall, Integrative RN, Reiki Master/Teacher.

Dementia and Hearing Loss - Can Early Correction Improve the Incidence of Dementia? 10 to 11 a.m. Hearing loss is the third most prevalent chronic health condition facing older adults. Delaying treatment can cause feelings of depression, anxiety, frustration, and social isolation. Join Audiologist, Dr. Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D. and understand the link between hearing loss and dementia.

Thursday, MAy 19

Tapping Into Natural Healing with the Eden Method. 6:30 to 8 p.m. Experience how simply tapping, touching, massaging different points on the body can help to destress, re-balance, and re-energize the mind, body, and spirit. Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine techniques and Donna Eden Energy Medicine, learn practical applications for daily living for you and your loved ones. Siobhan Hutchinson, MAHolistic Health. $15 Coordinated by Patti McDougall, Integrative RN.

TUESDAY, MAy 24

Sports and Orthopedic Health for Athletes of All Ages. 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. LIGHT DINNER INCLUDED. Join Michael R. Duch, MD, board certified Orthopedic surgeon, fellowship-trained in Sports Medicine, as he discusses proper orthopedic care of athletes of all ages. Prevention, injury and healing.

Better Health Programs There’s no better time to be 65+ years old, and there’s no better place to experience it than at the Better Health Program at RWJUH. This complimentary program will engage your mind, encourage you to move and help you reflect. To register for a program below or to learn about complimentary membership call (609) 584-5900 or visit rwjbh.org/ HamiltonBetterHealth.

TUESDAY, MAy 10

Acupuncture, Benefits from a Medical Doctor’s Perspective. 1 to 2 p.m. Please join us for an engaging conversation with Cindy Geng, MD discussing the benefits of combining acupuncture with medical treatment.

Vertigo, Causes, Symptoms & Treatments.

10 to 11 a.m. Discuss vertigo with audiologist Lorraine Sgarlato, AuD.

Thursday, MAy 12

Spring Fling. 2 to 5 p.m. Let’s celebrate Spring together with music, fun, and snacks. Must be a Better Health Member to attend. Registration Required.

Wednesday, MAy 18

Successful Aging 4-Part Series. Also May 25, June 1 and 8. 10 to 11 a.m. Studies have shown that we are in control of 70% of how we age! Kelly Astbury from The Landing will share how we can make a positive impact on our aging experience.

Shoulda, coulda, woulda is not a great plan during a pandemic sporting events, business openings, public meetings, etc. We will always have the personal option to wear a mask if that FROM THE MANAGER’S DESK is what you think is necessary to best protect yourselves from the virus. Just as Several days before the start of the importantly, you can choose not to wear Easter and Passover holiday weeka mask should the event not require you end, our Health Officer, Keith Levine, to do so for whatever reason you deem expressed his concern about the steady justified. increase in Covid-19 cases in our area I think what we have all learned after and the expectation of an uptick followliving through this pandemic is that we ing the weekend when many people will have a lot of power to take whatever steps gather to celebrate the holiday. we believe are necessary to protect ourKeith has routinely kept me informed selves (i.e., mask-wearing, keeping social of positive cases in our town and trends distance, vaccinations, booster shots, in our county and state. Since we are all etc.), and we should be able to do that aware that this virus will be with us for without ridicule or judgment. some time, there will be periods when But there are also times that it is necthe spread of the virus will spike and essary to take reasonable precautions to decrease, whether in the short term or better protect against the spread of the the long term. As a result, it becomes nec- virus that may impact what others can essary for us to be proactive in respondand can’t freely do. With the primary goal ing to the data compiled and published by of ensuring our municipal government public health officials if the primary goal continues to deliver the services that resis to ensure that we maintain government idents and businesses deserve, expect, operations without disruption. and require, I decided that we should Since we are more than 2-years into close the municipal building to visitors this pandemic, we have become much following the holiday weekend. I based it more knowledgeable about actions we on the data that showed the increase in can take to protect ourselves and others. covid-19 cases leading up to the weekend Just as important, we should also gain and the anticipated further increase after back some of the personal freedoms we many gather with friends and family to lost as we grappled with how to fight the celebrate their holiday. spread of the virus.

My thought process was that “we” (the I firmly believe that private business municipal government) do not function owners should be free to restrict their without the people who work for the patrons by requiring mask-wearing if Township. To safeguard against a shutthey conclude it is in the best interests of down and create an environment within their employees and gives them the best the municipal building that reduces the chance of not shutting down should the potential for the spread of the virus from virus spread among them. This freedom visitors without disrupting the services also extends to the patrons of those busi- we provide seemed like a no-brainer to nesses. They can freely choose to give me. them their business or not as they decide Every employee and every department whether the restrictions are something (Clerk, Tax Collector, Tax Assessor, they can tolerate.

Construction, Inspections, EngineerMost of what we do in life is by choice. ing, Health, Recreation, Finance, and We can choose to attend family functions, Fire administration) are still working

KEVIN NERWINSKI

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and doing their job to serve the community with the building closed to visitors.

When the building is closed, all visitors are greeted at the North Entrance by a staff member who facilitates whatever business the visitor needs to conduct with the Township. Absolutely everyone is assisted, and every township employee is doing their job. And if you simply need to drop something off, there is a locked, black box at the North Entrance that is checked throughout the day.

My decision to take the precaution of closing the building to visitors to keep the environment safer for our employees from the spread of the virus did result in me receiving some angry emails and FB comments from those who felt it was an “overreaction” a “power grab,” a “denial of their freedom to enter a public building” or “hypocritical” because I was seen out in public without a mask. Some others believed that since schools were open, we should be “open.” Or, since other towns didn’t close their municipal building, we shouldn’t either.

All that I can say is that my only consideration is the obligation to take whatever reasonable actions are necessary to protect our employees and maintain an

operating government for the benefit of the community. Making decisions based solely on what other towns or administrators do was a mistake that my Mom and Dad taught me at a young age. Remember the adage, would you jump off a bridge if your friends did? So, no, I will continue to make decisions based upon credible information, careful consideration, and what ultimately is best for our town. Princeton, Hamilton, and Ewing can do what is right for them.

I will end by reminding all that the services provided by the Township to residents and business owners can’t be duplicated by going down the road and getting them someplace else or provided to you virtually. We must do what we can to stay operational. I would rather take the criticism instead of having to shut down because I failed to act. Shoulda Coulda Woulda is not a great plan in a pandemic. From time to time, when proactive caution requires it, the municipal building will be closed from week-to week. We are back open right now. Stay safe and well, everyone!

Kevin Nerwinski, a longtime resident of Lawrence, serves as Lawrence Township’s municipal manager.

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May 2022 | Lawrence Gazette11

FREE UPCOMING HEALTH EDUCATION EVENTS Register online at capitalhealth.org/events and be sure to include your email address. Zoom meeting details will be provided via email 2 – 3 days before the program date. Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.

@capitalhealthnj

Building Better Bones Thursday, May 12, 2022 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting Osteoporosis is a common condition in which the bones become brittle and more likely to fracture or break, but there are a lot of things you can do to keep your bones healthy and strong. In this informative lecture, DR. DEBORAH SIEGEL-ROBLES, a physician at Capital Health Primary Care – Princeton, and JANICE PESCO, director of Capital Health Rehabilitation Services, will discuss medications and diet options to help maintain your bone health and offer exercise advice for beginners and experienced exercisers.

When is Back Pain More Than Just Back Pain?

Thursday, May 19, 2022 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting With more than half of all adults suffering daily, back pain affects most of us as we age. Join DR. DAVID KAYE, a spine surgeon from Rothman Orthopaedics Institute and director of the Orthopedic Spine Center at Capital Health, to learn effective solutions for managing pain when your back is telling you it’s time for something more.

12  Lawrence Gazette | May 2022