After a year of some upheaval at the leadership level, 2026 began on a positive note as new superintendent James Altobello joined the district.
Altobello officially took the reins on Jan. 2, having been unanimously selected as the next superintendent by the board of education on Oct. 29. He succeeded interim superintendent Edward Forsthoffer, who himself was appointed in March following the sudden resignation of former superintendent Trudy Atkins.
Atkins was not the only sudden and high-profile departure from the district in 2025. School board president Mike James also quit abruptly in February of last year. James told TapInto Bordentown this was due to “the accumulation of many things over time.”
The district went through protracted and contentious contract negotiations with its teachers’ union until reaching an agreement in December 2024. The conclusion of negotiations brought with it yet another sudden resignation—
from longtime school board member Stephen Heberling.
In announcing his resignation, Heberling bemoaned what he described as poor treatment by the community.
On top of all of that, the district also saw state aid cut with little notice in 2025, leaving Forsthoffer and the school board to scramble to adjust the budget for the 2025-26 school year.
Altobello, then, enters a district crying for stability. He has the sort of background that has many hoping he will be just the person for the job.
Altobello joins the district having served as director of administration for the Hamilton Township school district since 2018. Hamilton, the eighth largest school district in the state, has more than 14,000 students and 2,200 staff across 17 elementary schools, three middle schools and three high schools.
Before that, he was a principal for six years in the Middletown school district in Monmouth County.
Altobello’s contract is for five years. His salary for the current
See SuPER, Page 4
Scotties’ Acampora notches 100 wins, eyes state wrestling run
BY JuSTIN FEIL
Emma Acampora hit a huge milestone in late February and this month has a chance to exit high school career on top of the state in girls wrestling.
The senior returned to Bordentown Regional High School for her final year after spending last season at Rancocas Valley. She’s back where her career
took off and it seems only fitting that she picked up her 100th career win in Scotties’ black and gold.
“To hit that milestone is something that I kind of dreamed of since my freshman year,” said Acampora. “I remember I had gym class in the morning, and I go in there for gym and you see the banners up on the wall and everything. And I was like,
one day my name’s going to be up there – I’m going to have my name on that 100 wins. And so when that actually happened, it was just like a surreal moment.” Acampora has continued to add wins to her total as she enters the postseason. Despite sitting out the first 30 days due to New Jersey’s transfer rule, she is 20-1 and top-seeded at 100
See ACAMPORA, Page 6
Emma Acampora, center, with sister McKenna and mom Teresa Jo Conroy.
RWJUH Hamilton March Healthy Living / Community Education Programs
THE POWER OF FOOD: NUTRITION STRATEGIES FOR DIABETES
Monday, Mar. 9; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Tuesday, Mar. 24; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Join Lori Hager, MS, RD, for our monthly series to learn how to manage and control your diabetes through dietary choices. Learn the basics of diabetes and how nutrition affects blood sugar levels. Gain practical tips for meal planning and preparation to control your diabetes.
BARIATRIC WEIGHT LOSS SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, Mar. 10; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
If you are considering surgery, are in the process of preparing or have undergone surgery, you are welcome to attend our group. Family, friends and support persons are also welcome. This is a great opportunity to meet others going through the same weight loss journey. We focus on achieving optimal wellness through weight loss surgery. We will discuss different topics on nutrition, exercise and healthy living behaviors.
DINNER WITH A DOCTOR: MODERN ADVANCES IN COLORECTAL CANCER PREVENTION & TREATMENT
Monday, Mar. 16; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Join us for an informative lecture on colorectal cancer with Meera Yogarajah, MD, Medical Oncologist, and Rachel Perez, GI Navigator, the Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton. Learn about the importance of early detection, innovative treatments, and lifestyle factors that can reduce your risk. Dinner provided.
PREDIABETES CONNECT GROUP
Tuesday, Mar. 17; 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Diagnosed with prediabetes? This group is for you to connect with others affected. Share and explore ways to improve lifestyle changes.
PELVIC FLOOR HEALTH PROBLEMS AND CONSERVATIVE TREATMENTS EXPLORED
Thursday, Mar. 19; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
A look at stress incontinence, urge incontinence, overactive bladder, painful intercourse, genitourinary syndrome of menopause, and constipation. Learn conservative measures to help manage bladder/ bowel problems, led by Giselle Oriendo, PT, DPT, CLT, of RWJ Rehabilitation Hamilton.
AM I AT RISK? TYPE 2 DIABETES SCREENING.
Sunday, Mar. 22; 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Nearly 98 million American adults have prediabetes, and almost 90% are unaware of their condition. Understanding your risk is vital. Register for a Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment. A complimentary A1C screening will be completed for those who score moderate risk or higher.
DINNER WITH A DOCTOR: STRONG SHOULDERS AHEAD
Monday, Mar. 23; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Join Michael R. Duch, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon, member of the Orthopedic & Spine Institute at RWJUH Hamilton, and member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group. Shoulder pain slowing you down? Dr. Duch, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, will provide an
eye-opening session on rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement and bursitis — three common conditions that can impact your day-to-day comfort. Learn what causes them, how they are treated, and the steps you can take to stay strong and mobile. Dinner provided and registration required.
STROKE SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, Mar. 24; 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Join the Stroke Support Group at RWJUH Hamilton, a place for survivors and caregivers to build a community. The group will share personal experiences, feelings, recovery strategies, and firsthand information on managing life after stroke. Meetings will be facilitated by two outpatient rehabilitation therapists: Ashley Sarrol Speech- Language Pathologist, and Allyson Panikowski-Berry Occupational Therapist. Survivors and care partners at any stage of recovery are encouraged to attend.
FEED YOUR HEART: COOKING FOR HEART HEALTH
Wednesday, Mar. 25; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Join Lori Hager, MS, RD, for our bimonthly heart healthy cooking class. Have some fun learning how to cook nutritious and delicious hearthealthy meals. Explore heart-friendly ingredients and cooking techniques.
WOMAN’S BOOK CLUB: “A VIEW FROM LAKE COMO” BY ADRIANA TRIGIANI
Wednesday, Mar. 25; 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Please come prepared to discuss the book. “A novel about one woman’s quest to build her own life before it’s too late.”
CREATIVE ARTS: JUNK JOURNALING
Wednesday, Mar. 25; 2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Junk journaling is a stress reducing activity that allows individuals to express themselves through creativity. This unique way of journaling involves repurposing old items and transforming them into beautiful and personal works of art. Grab some “junk” and get crafty while working on your mental health and wellness.
UNDERSTANDING THE SPECIAL EDUCATION PROCESS (IEPS & 504 PLANS)
Wednesday, Mar. 25; 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
The session explains parents’ rights and roles at each stage of the special education process, emphasizing collaboration between families and schools to support student success. Learn about the differences between IEPs and 504 Plans, including who qualifies for each, what supports and accommodations they provide, and how they are developed and reviewed. Parents will gain practical guidance on reading plans, preparing for meetings, advocating for their child, and knowing what to do if concerns arise.
AVOIDING ENVIRONMENTAL TOXINS IN THE HOME
Thursday, Mar. 26; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Toxins are all around us: in the air we breathe, the products we use and the food we eat. Learn what these toxins can do to our body and ways to avoid
them and live a cleaner life. MONTHLY HEARING/BALANCE SCREENINGS
Monday, Mar. 30; 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. FREE screenings on the last Wednesday of every month! These 15-minute appointments are designed to help assess your hearing health or your balance health/fall risk. To reserve a required appointment time or to learn more, call 609-245-7390, the RWJ Balance & Hearing Center at RWJUH Hamilton, located at 2 Hamilton Health Pl., Hamilton, NJ.
SACRED BREATHWORK
Monday, Mar. 30; 6:00 p.m. - 7:15 p.m. Sacred Breathwork can help release negative patterns and fears that keep us stuck. Join us for this powerful work. Please bring a yoga mat, low beach chair, blankets or anything else that will make you comfortable. Chairs available as well. $15
WHAT
IS AUDITORY PROCESSING DISORDER AND HOW DOES IT RELATE TO HEARING
Tuesday, Mar. 31; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Join Teresa Cole, AuD, of RWJUH Hamilton’s Balance and Hearing Center, where she will discuss what Central Auditory Processing Disorder is and how it relates to hearing loss. Central Auditory Processing Disorder is a deficit in how our brain interprets the sounds we hear. Contrary to common belief, all ages can be impacted by these deficits. All are welcome to join!
*All programs require registration and are held at the RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd., Hamilton, NJ, unless otherwise noted.
To accommodate more members, Yoga, Meditation, and Chair Yoga have been expanded into a morning session and an afternoon session. Please only register for one meditation and ONE TYPE of yoga on any single day. Multiple registrations will not be honored.
YOGA CLASSES
Tuesday, Mar. 3, 17and 31, 2026; 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. OR 2:45 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
MEDITATION CLASSES
Tuesday, Mar. 3, 17 and 31, 2026; 11:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. OR 2:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
CHAIR YOGA
Tuesday, Mar. 3, 17 and 31, 2026; 12:00 p.m. - 12:45 p.m.
OR 1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m.
A SOCIAL HOUR ESPECIALLY FOR SENIORS
Wednesday, Mar. 4, 18, 25; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
GENTLE JAZZ CLASS
Wednesday, Mar. 4 & 18; 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
LUNCH AND LEARN: MOBILITY AND FALL PREVENTION WITH BIANCA ESTROPIA, DO
Thursday, Mar. 5; 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Join us as we welcome Bianca Estropia, DO, Geriatrician with the James and Sharon Maida Geriatrics Institute at RWJBarnabas Health Primary Care in Hamilton, and member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group. Learn about the importance of mobility and fall prevention as we age, along with recommended exercises to improve balance.
SOCRATES CAFÉ
Thursday, Mar. 12; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
This class encourages open discussion and the sharing of thoughts, beliefs, ideas, and personal experiences. An unofficial mantra is that we learn best when we ask questions and explore them together. This is a safe and welcoming space where all viewpoints are respected. Come with an open mind, respect for one another, and curiosity about where the conversation may lead.
TAI
CHI CLASSES
Thursday, Mar. 12 & 19; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. GAME TIME!
Friday, Mar. 13 & 27; 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Join us for good wholesome fun – let’s play a game! Sharpen your skills or jump back into something you always enjoyed. Board games will be available, or you are welcome to bring your own.
GAMBLING AWARENESS MONTH: DIGITIZED AND AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
Thursday, Mar. 19; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
After the legalization of online wagering, the environment around gambling has changed considerably. For many, it is still a fun and harmless pastime. However, the risks for some can lead to severe financial distress, mental health issues and damaged relationships. This presentation will explore the powerful factors behind gambling today, the dangers of addiction and the importance of responsible play.
TO BECOME A BETTER HEALTH MEMBER FOR FREE SCAN THIS QR CODE
INTERGENERATIONAL MEETUP LUNCH AND SOCIAL
Friday, Mar. 20; 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
This intergenerational meetup pairs local high school students with seniors for a lively exchange about how daily life differs from “then” to “now.” Participants will swap stories on everything from vintage technology and fashion to how social trends have shifted over the decades.
LUNCH & LEARN: HEALTHY AGING AND MEDICATION SAFETY WITH GABRIELA ALVAREZ, PHARMD, BCPS, BCGP
Thursday, Mar. 26; 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Gabriela Alvarez, PharmD, BCPS, BCGP, will discuss essential tools to manage prescriptions safely while exploring the core pillars of healthy aging, such as nutrition, physical activity, and social engagement. By combining medication safety with proactive wellness strategies, this session will empower attendees to maintain independence and improve their overall quality of life.
Scan QR code to view, learn more & register on-line for the programs listed above. Or visit rwjbh.org/HamiltonPrograms Email CommunityEdHam@rwjbh.org or call 609-584-5900 to learn more
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school year will be $207,000, rising to $229,828 for the 2029-30 school year.
The new superintendent has a doctorate of education from Rowan University, two master’s degrees in education from Georgian Court University, and a bachelor’s degree from The College of New Jersey. A graduate of Brick Memorial High School, he began his administrative career in Brick, where he served as an assistant principal. He then spent three years in the same role in the Keansburg school district before heading to Middletown.
After working for seven years in a large district, Altobello told the Current that one of the things that made Bordentown so appealing to him is the size of the district.
“I’ve had experience in working in very large districts and very small districts,” he said. “You can really change an organization this size rapidly. You can do a lot of things quickly that can change things for kids rapidly. A big district is like a cruise ship, it changes direction slowly.
“(For example) trying to change primary-grade literacy in 17 schools is going to take a lot more time than how we’re going to change primary-grade literacy in (Bordentown’s) three schools.”
He also said that as he went through
the hiring process, he felt a strong sense of community in Bordentown.
“There are a number of people who work in Hamilton, but live in Bordentown who really encouraged me to think about applying for the job. Their passion for the town where they live really drew me to it.”
He is well aware of the budget cuts that Bordentown has dealt with in recent years. He hopes that he can bring a fresh approach to dealing with budgetary challenges.
“Any school district, not just Bordentown, is dealing with different budget cuts,” he said. “My perspective is a little bit different. The way I look at it is, if we’re doing the right things structurally, if we’re able to tie every dollar we’re spending to students, and look critically at the way we are spending those dollars, I look at it as a way to really reflect on what we are doing.”
As the budgeting process for the next school year unfolds, he does not intend to wait and see what kind of state-aid figures are presented to the district.
“We’re not going to sit back and base our decision on what is going to happen or not going to happen,” he said. “There are structural things and systemic things that we have to do better, and we’re working on that right now. I don’t look at it as a state issue. I look at it as a local issue, to
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Altobello says that education was always something that was critically important to him. Though his bachelor’s degree is in law and justice, he says that he realized while he was at TCNJ that his passion was working with kids and education.
His father, who immigrated to the U.S. from Italy, started working as a house painter at the age of 14. He never learned how to read in English. “One of the things I say all the time is, your lived experience guides you. I remember going to the bank with my father to deposit a check, and the only thing my dad could do was sign his name. He was essentially embarrassed by that, so he always talked about the power of education.”
He said that one of his priorities will be to instill a certain culture in the district, one that has buy-in from students, staff and the community alike.
“Culture is the most important thing we can do as a school district. If we have a culture where teachers feel important, and students feel valued, we’re going to have great student,” he said.
But, he says, in speaking about culture he does not mean that he intends to impart a vision on students and staff. “What’s important in building culture is bringing everyone to the table. Listening to everyone’s thoughts on where we are as a culture and designing a plan to get us where we want to go,” he said.
“It’s never ‘I and me,’ it’s ‘Us and we.’ If I work to build a culture of Us and We, my focus is setting an example. Of being a collaborative leader, somebody who wants to hear from teachers, from staff, from the community about where are we currently, where do we want to go? To work collaboratively to figure out a path and a plan to achieve those things.”
He said he looks forward to working with the board of education. “The board is representative of the community. One of the things that I always want from
the board is ideas, thoughts, opinions, direction. Not just from members of the board, but (also) members of the community. I’m looking forward to meeting the town committee and the city commissioners. The more perspective I can get from a more diverse group of people, the more I’m going to be in a position to move the culture forward.”
He said he also looks forward to including students in district dialogue.
“We went through a process very recently to choose a new high school principal (Michelle Spaventa, who started Feb. 2), and I made it a requirement to have student representation on the committee.”
* * *
Altobello knows that budget issues remain a concern. In a February letter sent out to parents in the district, he noted that while new Gov. Mikie Sherrill is required to make a budget address by the end of February, Sherrill may request an extension allowing her administration more time to make budget decisions.
If she does, that will affect the time that Bordentown and, for that matter, every other school district will have time to begin serious deliberations on their 202627 budgets.
“Once state aid is released, the district will develop our tentative budget and present it to the board of education in a public meeting where all community members are invited and offered the opportunity to ask questions,” he wrote.
He cautioned community members not to indulge in rumor and speculation about future state aid. Any specific claims that may circulate prior to the conclusion of the governor’s address would not be verified information.
“I ask the community to be cautious about anonymous posts or speculative commentary. While emotions are understandable, relying on and sharing unverified information only increases anxiety and does not reflect the actual work happening on behalf of our students.”
pounds for the District 10 meet at Delran on March 1. With a top-three finish, she’d advance to the South Region meet at Absegami where she’s the defending champion, and a podium finish there would give her a chance to improve on last year’s sixth-place finish at the Tournament of Champions.
“I actually want to do better than that,” she said. “And I’m really confident in my ability to do better than that.”
Acampora and fellow senior Maddie Blumenthal, whose 25-0 start has her ranked second in the state at 120, are the Scotties’ best chances to medal at states. Acampora’s return gives Bordentown a dynamic 1-2 punch.
“They’re the definition of a role model for all the girls on and off the match, just the way they conduct themselves, how they handle their weight, how they go for their matches, or just their mindset going into a tournament or going into a tougher matchup that they might not be favored in necessarily,” said Bordentown coach Sammy Mazzella.
Acampora had a great role model of her own. Her sister, McKenna, who wrestles now at Bethany College in West Virginia, paved the way when they moved to Bordentown when Acampora was in fourth grade.
When they moved, Acampora was a high-end soccer player, but a serious ankle injury ended her career on the soccer pitch. In eighth grade, she took up wrestling, following in McKenna’s footsteps and hoping to duplicate her sister’s positive experiences in the sport.
“I picked up on wrestling pretty quick,” Acampora said. “And in middle school, girls wrestled guys so at the beginning, I got my butt kicked a little bit. But that’s kind of what made me better. But my sister was also training to go off to college, and me and my sister were around the same weight so it was kind of like a dream partner pair right there. Like I had a builtin training partner.”
Acampora devoted herself to wrestling after eighth grade. She trained with her sister, lifted weights with her mom at the gym and ran on her own. It was always with one goal in mind.
“Because I want to be good at wrestling,” Acampora said.
She piled up wins in her first two years at Bordentown. She got her 50th career in 2024, halfway to her dream of getting her name on the school’s 100 wins banner.
“I was so confident that I could get my name on that banner because I know my work ethic and how determined I was,” she said. “Once I set my mind on some-
See ACAMPORA, Page 8
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GENOLY CARING CENTER
thing, I’m gonna achieve it. And I put so much work in and I was continuing to put so much work in that I can be like, I can beat anyone, I don’t care who I wrestle. I was just so determined that I was going to achieve that goal.”
Winning didn’t stop when she got to Rancocas Valley. Her 75th career win came there on her way to her first regional title, another significant achievement. She was happy, though, to return to Bordentown to finish her high school career.
“I love my training partner I had last year, and I don’t want to say anything, but the environment for me is a lot different here at Bordentown,” Acampora said. “It’s a lot more accepting. Our team culture is a lot better than it was at RV. ”
energy and emotion into it, and has been rewarded on the mat with plenty of success. Experience, she says, has enabled her to develop an identity as a wrestler. “When I go out onto the mat, I know what I’m going to do,” she said. “I know how I’m going to wrestle. I’m not just going out there doing a bunch of random things.”
She is looking to follow her sister into college wrestling where she hopes to study toward teaching secondary education with a focus on special education. First, she hopes to conclude her high school career with a state title. Her lone loss this year came against Jackson Township’s Ava Bonilla, a match that just demonstrates the path to gold won’t be easy.
Mazzella was thrilled to have Acampora back in the fold. He knew her sister from their high school years, and knew the family had a strong work ethic. It’s shown up in the training room. He’s been impressed by her makeup all year.
“Just how tough she is and she’s very resilient,” Mazzella said. “She always is very coachable and just her mindset of just how she attacks her matches and putting herself in, I like to say, killer mentality.”
Acampora has embraced the sport since that eighth grade year. She has poured her
“The end goal is be at the top of the podium, number one in the state,” Mazzella said. “And that’s just being persistent every day in practice, holding yourself to a high standard.”
Rather than stress about any opponent, Acampora relishes the opportunity to compete. She’s accomplished everything else she set her mind to, including her 100th win. The state title is just one more goal to reach.
“My wrestling has developed so much and has gotten so much better in the past year and a half that I really feel like the most confident version of myself going into this,” she said.
C A M P S MERCER
“THIS SUMMER IS GOING TO BE GREAT”
Summer CampS 2026 Area camps offer a wide variety of summer options
As the school year winds down and calendars begin to open, families across Mercer County turn their attention to one of summer’s biggest planning decisions: how children will spend their time once classes end.
With dozens of options available locally, this month’s Summer Camps section showcases a wide range of programs offered throughout the region.
The guide helps families compare camp types, schedules and focus areas, making it easier to match a child’s interests with summer availability.
For many households, summer camps strike a balance between structure and freedom, learning and play, supervision and independence.
What was once a single type of day camp experience has evolved into a variety of programs tailored to different interests, ages and schedules. Today’s camps reflect shifting educational priorities and a recognition that children thrive when they can explore what excites them.
Traditional day camps remain a popular choice. These programs typically offer full- or half-day schedules built around outdoor activities, organized games, arts and crafts, and social interaction.
Swimming, team sports and creative projects are often part of the daily routine, giving campers a mix of activity and downtime. For younger children especially, traditional camps provide consistency and opportunities to build social skills in a relaxed setting.
Many traditional camps incorporate themed weeks or rotating activities. One week might focus on outdoor adventure, another on creative arts and another on group challenges.
such as drawing and painting, or on performing arts like theater, music and dance. Campers might rehearse a play, learn new techniques or explore storytelling and creative writing. Many culminate in a showcase or performance for family and friends.
Sports and recreation camps continue to attract families seeking active programs. Some focus on specific sports such as soccer, basketball or swimming, while others introduce campers to a variety of games and fitness activities. Emphasis is often placed on teamwork, sportsmanship and skill development rather than competition alone, creating an inclusive environment for children of all experience levels.
Nature and environmental camps appeal to children who enjoy time outdoors. Taking advantage of local parks and open spaces, these programs may include hiking, wildlife observation, gardening and environmental science projects.
Campers explore ecosystems, learn about conservation and participate in handson activities that promote stewardship while building independence and resilience.
Academic enrichment camps represent another growing category, particularly for older students. These programs may strengthen skills in reading, writing or math, help students prepare for new grade levels or offer advanced topics for those seeking additional challenges. Smaller group settings and interactive projects help keep students engaged.
This approach offers flexibility and allows children to try new experiences without committing to a single focus for the entire summer.
STEM and STEAM camps have grown increasingly popular. These programs emphasize science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics through handson, project-based learning.
Specialty camps focus on niche interests such as cooking, maker workshops or leadership development. Multi-interest camps combine elements from several categories, offering rotating schedules that might include art in the morning and sports in the afternoon. Additional options may include overnight programs, adaptive camps, and faith-based offerings.
With so many choices, selecting the right camp often involves balancing a child’s interests with practical considerations such as age range, schedule, session length and cost. Early planning is important, as many programs fill quickly.
Rather than focusing on classroom-style instruction, campers might build simple machines, experiment with chemistry, design structures, or explore coding. Activities encourage collaboration and problemsolving while keeping learning engaging.
Arts and creative camps provide enrichment through expression and performance. Programs may focus on visual arts
Whether families are seeking enrichment, adventure or simply a fun place for children to spend their days, Mercer County area camps reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.
For a guide to camps for all ages and interests in Mercer County and beyond, visit mercercamps.com.
Summer CampS 2026
YMCA Camp Mason
Why Camp Matters
For more than 125 years, YMCA Camp Mason has welcomed campers to be a part of our caring, inclusive community. We strive for excellence, relevance and innovation and believe that every child deserves the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. Our camp focuses on facilitating a break from technology, encouraging engagement with the natural world, and participating in an assortment of activities aimed at personal development. Our proven programs and caring counselors engage and encourage young people and deliver meaningful and memorable experiences year after year.
We could go on and on about the benefits of YMCA Camp Mason, but our campers say it best!
“I made so many new friends and now I know I can do anything!” – 14 year old girl
Our schedule allows campers to try new things and improve their skills while developing confidence, gaining a sense of independence and having fun! Campers enjoy a varied daily schedule that includes choice activities, group games, swimming and a period of recreation time. The friendships gained from their time at camp last a lifetime.
“I come to camp for all of the great activities.” –13 year old boy
From canoeing to ziplining through the trees to performing at the talent show, there is something for everyone! We offer archery, swimming in our heated pool, boating, arts and crafts, drama, music, a climbing tower, zipline, dance, movie making, basketball and other court sports, a skate boarding park, mountain biking, hiking, aerial silks, yoga and countless other activities. Campers can even sign up for FREE off-site trips to explore our fantastic natural surroundings in the Delaware River Gap National Recreation Area.
“Camp Mason is my home away from home!” –10 year old boy
Campers stay in comfortable cabins with each cabin group determined by age and with two counselors who live alongside the campers, ensuring there is always a caring, watchful eye on your child. Our counselors, from around the US and the world, are professional, trained mentors. We teach and live our values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, integrity and inclusion throughout the camp day.
“At camp I can be myself.” – 11 year old girl 98 percent of our camper parents report that their child felt a sense of belonging at camp, and 93%
of parents indicated that their child’s self-image improved as a result of attending YMCA Camp Mason.
Don’t miss out and join us at YMCA Camp Mason for the BEST SUMMER EVER! If you are ready for your child to out down their phone, thrive, build a positive sense of self, grow in empathy and caring and experience a sense of discovery, then please take a moment to look at our website at www.campmason.org, call 908-362-8217 or email shani@campmason.org for more information or to register.
Summer CampS 2026
Hamilton Area YMCA
More Than a Summer: The Lasting Benefits of Sawmill Summer Camp
At the Hamilton Area YMCA Sawmill Summer Camp, the fun is evident. The pool splashes, the fields buzz with games, and laughter echoes across 50 acres of outdoor adventure. But what makes camp truly powerful isn’t just what children do; it’s who they become.
Camp is a place where kids try new things without the pressure of grades, teams, or comparison. They attempt the climbing wall. They test the deep end. They speak up during group activities. Each small win builds confidence. And that confidence doesn’t stay at camp; it shows up in classrooms, on sports fields, and in everyday life.
ing their backpacks, navigating new friendships, or participating in leadership activities as Trailblazers or CITs, campers learn responsibility in ways that feel natural and empowering. With trained staff, low camper-tostaff ratios, and a supportive environment grounded in the YMCA’s core
values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility, children are encouraged to grow, knowing they are safe and supported.
Camp fosters authentic connections. Without screens or social media, kids build real friendships through shared experiences such as
team challenges, group games, theme weeks, and creative projects.
They learn how to work as part of a team, resolve conflicts, include others, and lead with empathy. These socialemotional skills are some of the most valuable long-term benefits of camp.
From daily swim time in Mercer County’s largest pool to sports, field games, STEM, and specialty programs, campers are busy and on the move all day long. They build strength, coordination, and endurance while associating physical activity with fun.
Swim lessons, taught by certified instructors, provide life-saving skills that benefit children for years to come.
Camp gives children permission to imagine boldly. Arts and crafts, science experiments, performing arts, specialty sports camps, and themed weeks encourage campers to explore new interests and discover hidden talents. In a space free from fear of failure, creativity thrives.
As campers grow, so do their opportunities. Older campers step into
Summer CampS 2026
leadership roles, participate in community projects, travel on field trips, and even train alongside counselors in our CIT program. They learn what it means to guide others, take initiative, and make a positive impact. Skills that shape future leaders.
For over 20 years, the Hamilton Area YMCA Sawmill Summer Camp has created spaces where every child belongs. Financial assistance is available because we believe camp should be accessible to all families.
When parents drop their children
off at Sawmill, they’re not merely sending them to camp. They’re offering them confidence, independence, enduring friendships, and unforgettable memories, all while fostering healthy habits and leadership skills.
The sunshine fades at the end of August, but the growth lasts all year.
This summer, give your child more than something to do. Give them something that shapes who they become. To learn more, visit www. hamiltonymca.org/summer-camp/ sawmill-branch-2026
Ewing Recreation Department
Camps & Pools Set for 2026
The Ewing Community Pools System offers two pools for seasonal members and daily patrons. The pools have shaded areas, pool furniture, changing rooms, and shower facilities, and ESCC has a snack bar. The Hollowbrook Pool located at 320 Hollowbrook Drive is scheduled to open on weekends & Memorial Day on Saturday, May 23. Operating hours are, Saturdays, 5 to 8 p.m., Sunday – Friday noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays can be rented for private events, email Raquel at rince@ewingnj.org to schedule an event. The ESCC pool will open on weekends & Memorial Day starting Saturday, May 23, and both pools will open full time starting on Monday, June 17, from noon to 8 p.m. Swim lessons start with evaluations on Saturday, June 13, and space is limited. Senior Swim and Senior Water Aerobics are offered and will start on Monday, June 22; seniors needing assistance registering can register at the Senior Office for
these programs. Online registration for seasonal memberships, swim lessons, and Senior Swim/Water Aerobics is required at ewingnj.org/ recregistration. Labor Day is the last day that the pools will be open.
The Ewing Recreation Summer Camp will run from June 29 – August 22 for grades 1 – 6 and is held on the grounds of the Fisher School and Ewing Sr. & Community Center (ESCC). The hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday. Early hours are from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. and late hours are from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Online registration is required at ewingnj.org/recregistration.
Teen Travel will be for grades 7 –9 and will run from July 1 – August 16. The camp will travel four days a week and stay in Ewing the other day. Campers can participate in day camp on weeks Teen Travel is not being held. Camp also offers a Counselor in Training program for children entering grades 9 and 10.
For more information on these programs call the Ewing Recreation Office at 609-883-1776 x6203. You can also go to ewingnj.org, Community Affairs.
June
July
Summer CampS 2026
RSM Princeton
Advance Your Child’s Math Learning This Summer!
Summer math classes at RSM Princeton are now enrolling!
RSM is an award winning, afterschool math enrichment program trusted by parents for over 25 years across 80+ locations in North America. Our unique approach consists of a continuous K-12 curriculum, taught by expert teachers, in a classroom environment of peers who study together year after year.
Featured in NPR and The Atlantic as a key player in the “Math Revolution” and ranked one of the best schools in the world by the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth, RSM uses the rigorous study of mathematics to develop our students’ math fluency, intellect, and character, empowering them for life.
Why Choose RSM’s Summer Program?
A Program for All Students: RSM offers summer classes for K-12 students looking to strengthen their grasp of the fundamentals, prepare for the upcoming school year, or experience additional challenges.
Prevent Summer Learning Loss: RSM’s program ensures that students retain and strengthen their math knowledge, keeping them on track when they return to school in the fall.
Talented Faculty: All of our teachers have a background in mathematics or a related field and a deep passion for the subject.
Classroom Environment: Students are instructed by an expert teacher leading an interactive lesson in an in-person class environment.
Summer Program Details: The 6-Week Summer Program runs June
22 – July 30, in-person or online, on Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday. The 3-Week Summer Program runs in person August 3 – 20 Monday through Thursday with no homework.
Summer Math Competition Preparation Classes: Math Competition Preparation classes are designed for students interested in advanced mathematical topics and preparing for elite state, national, and international competitions (Math Kangaroo, MOEMS, AMC 8, 10, 12, USA(J)MO, and more). The program focuses on teaching students how to approach competition-level problems. These classes are available for grades 2 through 10 as 6 or 3-week courses meeting twice per week.
STEAM Program at RSM Edison: We are thrilled to introduce our brand-new Summer STEAM Program, designed for students entering grades K-5. This one-week program is designed to spark curiosity in young learners with hands-on activities in Math, Science, Engineering, Chess, Coding, Dance and Art. There is a new session each week and students can sign up for multiple sessions. There are 5 4-hour classes per week grouped by grade for best learning experience and open to all ability levels.
Summer Chess Classes: Chess makes its debut at RSM Princeton this summer! Not only is it a lot of fun, but it is also a great tool to improve your child’s cognitive development, decision-making, creative, and critical thinking skills. The in-person program meets Monday through Thursday for 3 weeks.
Get Started Today! Visit www. mathschool.com to view the summer schedule for RSM Princeton and other RSM NJ locations and enroll your child today.
Body Language Dance Center
The Stage Is Set for Movement
This summer, the stage is set for movement, music, and memorable classes at Body Language Dance Center, where creativity and community come together under the direction of Travis Breen and Eric McCotter.
Located at 5 Scotch Road in the heart of Ewing, the studio continues to be a vibrant hub for dancers ages 2.5–18. The Summer Dance program features an exciting lineup of classes designed to inspire both new and returning students. From high-energy hip-hop and acro to classical ballet and jazz, each class blends strong technical training with expressive artistry in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Breen and McCotter share a deep passion for dance education and performance excellence. Their leadership emphasizes not only precision and skill development, but also confidence, teamwork, and personal growth. Students are encouraged to challenge themselves, explore new styles, and discover their unique voice through movement.
In addition to its recreational classes, Body Language Dance Center is proud to be home to an award-winning competition team that consistently
earns top honors at regional and national events. The team exemplifies dedication, artistry, and sportsmanship, providing dancers with opportunities to grow, perform, and represent the studio with pride.
Classes begin in July, giving students the perfect opportunity to stay active, refine their technique, beginner level through advance, and make the most of their summer break.
Families throughout the community praise Body Language Dance Center for its welcoming atmosphere and dedicated staff. Many students return year after year, drawn by the studio’s commitment to high-quality instruction and positive mentorship.
As the summer season unfolds, Body Language Dance Center remains a place where discipline meets joy — and where every dancer, from beginner to advanced, is empowered to move with confidence and purpose.
Registration for Summer Dance is now open. For more information about class schedules and enrollment, visit BodyLanguageDanceCenter.com or call 609-882-3222.
Summer CampS 2026
D1 Training
Newtown
Building Stronger Athletes and a Stronger Community
Families in the Mercer and Bucks areas seeking structured, coach-led fitness, and athletic development now have a dedicated destination at D1 Training, located just outside Newtown in Langhorne, PA. The facility delivers a sports science-backed approach designed to help youth and adults improve performance, build strength, and develop long-term healthy habits.
Unlike traditional gyms, D1 Training follows a structured model rooted in athletic principles. Each workout is organized around five tenets: dynamic warm-up, performance, strength, core and conditioning, and cool down. This system focuses on training the whole body while supporting safe, consistent progress for participants at every level. The Newtown location is owned by Matt and Tracy Kueny, whose professional backgrounds combine athletic coaching and operational leadership. Matt brings more than 20 years of experience as a Junior Olympic softball coach, guiding high school athletes to refine their skills and pursue higher levels of competition. Tracy has spent 14 years at Princeton University as Senior Financial Manager in the Office of the Dean of the College, overseeing initiatives at one of the nation’s most respected institutions.
Leaping Dog & Sleeping Cat Art Studios
Never a Dull Moment at Art Camp!
Leaping Dog Art Studios and its new second location, Sleeping Cat Art Studios, is a communitycentered art studio providing art classes, art camps, private art lessons, and art parties for both kids and adults in drawing, painting, pottery, and more in downtown Bordentown City.
Unlike a traditional art school with grades and critiques, Leaping Dog & Sleeping Cat offers a more relaxed educational atmosphere, free of judgment, and strives to meet students where they are at in their creative journey and help them to grow as an artist. Their kids Summer Camp program in particular has become a popular choice for local parents since they first opened back in 2014 and are known to fill up fast. What makes their camps special?
For one thing, they always keep camp numbers small (under 15) to make sure that each camper gets individualized attention by caring and talented instructors. Secondly, camp at Leaping Dog, and now Sleeping Cat is never dull! With a full load of artful themes offered throughout the entire ten weeks of summer, instructors and campers alike
For the Kuenys, opening the facility represents both a business venture and a personal mission. As parents of two former college athletes, they understand the preparation and discipline required to compete beyond high school. That perspective shapes how they engage with members and families who walk through the doors.
Programming is organized by age and stage of development, with Rookie training for ages 7 to 11, Developmental for ages 12 to 14, Prep for ages 15 to 18, and adult options. In addition to group sessions, members can choose semi private or one on one coaching. This structure allows individualized attention within a motivating team environment.
Beyond daily training, the owners aim to make an impact in the broader community. They have expressed interest in creating a grant program to support underserved youth athletes who may not otherwise access this type of training. The goal is to expand opportunity while reinforcing the life skills that sports can teach.
D1 Training was founded in 2001 by former NFL player Will Bartholomew and has grown into a national brand with more than 150 locations and many additional facilities in development. Its 5 Star Training System emphasizes total body development and measurable progress rather than short term trends.
For local residents, the facility offers a place where athletes, students, and adults can train with intention and accountability. Coaches work closely with members to set goals, track improvement, and
are always excited to see what new things they get to do and create each day and each week. For example, one day we may be learning to draw faces and another day, we’re making magic wands or potions and creating fantastical creatures out of clay or with paper mache.
While all ceramics or clay-centered camps will be offered at the Leaping Dog location (including “Foodie Clay Camp” and “Pottery Wheel” camps), camps at Sleeping Cat will focus on two-dimensional and performance art related themes including “We Love Music & Theater Art” Camp, Fashion Design Camp, Cartooning and Digital Art Camp and
celebrate milestones. The environment encourages consistency, effort, and confidence, qualities that extend beyond workouts into school, careers, and daily life. As Newtown area families continue to prioritize health and activity, D1 Training Newtown stands as a resource committed to helping individuals reach their potential and sustain active lifestyles for years to come.
With expert coaching, thoughtful programming, and a community minded approach, the facility positions itself as a long term partner in personal fitness, athletic development, and overall wellness for residents throughout the region. Looking ahead.
D1 Training | Newtown, 864 Town Center Drive, Langhorne, Pennsylvania. d1training.com/facility/ newtown.
the eco-friendly, play-based “Cardboard Creations” camp, which are new themes this year.
Summer Camps at Leaping Dog and Sleeping Cat complement each other as “two studios, one creative home,” says director Jennifer Szeto. “Both spaces feel as part of the same studio. Our beloved instructors work at both locations and we are excited to welcome some new, enthusiastic instructors on staff this coming summer for 2026. Our studio is a safe space, a positive space and each summer we cannot wait to meet new campers and welcome back returning campers as one does family. The fact is, many of our campers have been coming and often they come for multiple weeks each summer. We have become like a second home, a creative home for these students, a place where they feel safe in, can meet new friends, try new things, learn new skills, gain confidence and feel inspired.”
Online Registration is now open.
For more info and to find the latest schedule of classes and events, including “Arty Pizza Nights”, “Bookish Art Club” meetings, “Coffee and Crafternoons” and monthly musical performances like Open Mic Nights and Jazz Jams, follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/leapingdogartstudios or visit their website at www.leapingdogartstudios.com.
Matt and Tracy Kueny with A J Brown from the Eagles.
Summer CampS 2026
Tomato Patch at Kelsey Theatre
Now Registering for Its 53rd Year!
Kelsey Theatre at Mercer is now registering for Tomato Patch!
Now in its 53rd year, Tomato Patch is the longest-running, most successful multi-disciplinary Visual and Performing Arts program in Central New Jersey. Featuring classes for ages 10-18, Tomato Patch is taught by a talented staff of professional artists. Check us out online at www.tomatopatch.org.
Here are some fun things about Tomato Patch:
First: It is truly multi-disciplinary. You choose a major in the morning in either theater, dance, vocal music or visual art and have classes in your
Centercourt
major, then after lunch you have four electives — and you can mix and match between theater, dance, music,
visual arts and video.
Second: It culminates in a Festival of The Arts Performance and Gallery
More Than Sports: Summer Fun with a Purpose in Lawrence
Centercourt Club & Sports has become a trusted hub for youth sports in the community, offering year-round training, development programs, and structured leagues for multiple sports across the region. As summer approaches, the facility is inviting parents to take advantage of flexible camp options designed to fit every child’s interests and goals.
The message this season is simple: design summer your way.
Conveniently located in Lawrence Township, Centercourt offers a range of camp experiences that allow families to choose the structure, sport focus, and environment that best fits their child.
For families seeking a well-rounded, highenergy experience, Centercourt’s Multi-Sport Summer Camp delivers action-packed days built around movement, teamwork, and fun. Campers rotate through structured sports sessions including soccer, flag football, wiffle ball and field games, along with team challenges and themed programming. The focus goes beyond simply staying active — it is about building confidence, encouraging sportsmanship, and creating friendships that last well beyond the summer months.
For younger campers, Centercourt’s Pre-K Camp provides a supportive and engaging introduction to group activities. Designed specifically for early learners, the program
emphasizes age-appropriate skill development, cooperative play, and structured fun in a safe and nurturing environment. It is an ideal first camp experience for families looking to build routine and social confidence before the school year begins. Baseball players have a unique opportunity this summer with Michael Rogers Baseball Camp. Known for his player development expertise and ability to connect with young athletes, Rogers brings a high-level instructional approach. Campers receive focused skill instruction, position-specific training, and game-based learning designed to elevate performance while maintaining
A production of ‘Beetlejuice’ from a previous year’s Tomato Patch Workshop.
Exhibit.
Third: You will make lasting friendships — something we have seen for many years, as you find friends that have a lot in common with you.
Tomato Patch Workshops this summer has 2 sessions:
Session 1 for ages 13-18, June 29July 24 (four weeks).
Session 2 for ages 10-12, July 27-August 13 (3 weeks).
We also feature a Master Class in Acting which is full-day 3 week theater intensive summer program for ages 13-19. July 27-August 14.
The Master Class in Theater culminates in A Night of One Acts! Call 609-570-3566 for more information.
the excitement that makes summer baseball memorable. Baseball camp takes place at Fenton Lane Park in Chesterfield.
Adding to the lineup this year, there are four brand new indoor Volleyball courts, expanding to trainings, league, and Volleyball Camp. As volleyball continues to grow in popularity across the region, Centercourt is proud to introduce enhanced training opportunities and gameplay. Athletes will work on fundamentals, strategy, and team play under experienced coaches, making it an exciting new option for both beginners and experienced players. The best of both worlds, Multi-Sport + Volleyball Combo Camp includes a half day of Volleyball and a half day of Multi-Sport activities.
Additional sport-specific camps, including Softball, Football, and Lacrosse, will be announced soon, giving even more athletes the opportunity to train and compete in a structured summer environment.
What connects all of these programs is Centercourt’s commitment to coach-led instruction and intentional programming. Each session is supervised and thoughtfully designed to promote both athletic development and character growth.
Families are encouraged to explore the full lineup of camp options and secure their spots early, as sessions typically fill quickly. To see all Centercourt Lawrence camp offerings and register, visit www.cntrcrt.com/lawrence-camps.
At Centercourt Lawrence, summer is not one-size-fits-all — it is built around flexibility, development, and community, giving every family the opportunity to design a season that works for them.
Summer CampS 2026
Liberty Lake Day Camp
Marking 25 Years With Expanded Leadership, Safety Initiatives, and Growing Regional Demand
As Liberty Lake Day Camp enters its 25th year serving families across New Jersey and Pennsylvania, the well-known Bordentown program is marking the milestone with strengthened leadership, expanded safety initiatives, and continued emphasis on inclusion and youth development.
Founded in 2001 by educator and former American Camp Association (ACA) NY/NJ President Andy Pritikin, Liberty Lake Day Camp has grown into one of the region’s most established summer day camps. These 60 shady acres are the summer home base to thousands of campers each season, offering a mix of outdoor recreation, instructional activities, and values-based programming.
“This anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate but also to continue raising the bar,” Pritikin said. “The needs of children and families evolve, and we want to grow with them.” If you are looking for more details about “life in the day of a camper”, on December 24, 2025 — Liberty Lake Day Camp announced the release of its 2025 Video Yearbook, highlighting a summer filled with confidence-building programs, meaningful friendships, and personal growth…great video!
Leadership Expansion: A Second Generation Joins the Team. The camp’s 25th anniversary also marks the return of Justin Pritikin, Andy’s
son, to the leadership team. Justin, a former Liberty Lake camper, brings experience in youth programming, staff training, and leadership development.
His professional background includes roles in corporate leadership at lululemon and program oversight at Everwood Day Camp, Liberty Lake’s sister camp in Massachusetts. Justin is also known for his TED Talk on resilience, inspired by his seven-year battle with childhood leukemia. His full biography appears here
“Coming back to Liberty Lake feels like the right moment,” Justin said. “This place shaped me as a child, and I’m honored to contribute to its next chapter.”
Safety Enhancements Remain Central to Camp Operations.
Safety continues to be one of the most scrutinized aspects of youth programs, and Liberty Lake Day Camp has worked to maintain what many parents describe as a “proactive and visible” safety culture.
The camp regularly exceeds New Jersey’s staffing and training requirements, particularly in its waterfront program, where additional certified lifeguards and layered supervision are standard practices. Staff complete multiple rounds of emergency-preparedness training, and daily risk assessments are part of the camp’s routine. A detailed summary of Liberty Lake Day Camp’s safety procedures is available.
“Our philosophy is that safety should be built into every aspect of operation,” Andy Pritikin said. “It’s not a document — it’s a culture.”
Growing Focus on Inclusion and Social-Emotional Support. Alongside traditional activities, Liberty Lake Day Camp has expanded its inclusion and social-emotional programming. Counselors receive training in supporting neurodiverse campers, managing peer interactions, and fostering communication skills. The camp’s long-standing 5-Star Points — Independence, Integrity,
Inspiration, Teamwork, and Friendship — remain at the center of its youthdevelopment model.
“Parents today are looking for camps where their children feel welcome and understood,” Justin said. “We want every child to feel successful here.”
Regional Interest From Both NJ and PA Families. Liberty Lake Day Camp draws campers from Burlington, Mercer, Camden, and Gloucester counties, as well as from across the river in Philadelphia and Bucks County. Many families cite the camp’s leadership, staff stability, and safety practices as deciding factors in enrollment.
Families new to the camp often look for information on schedules, meals, transportation, and program structure.
A resource page answering these questions is available at: libertylakedaycamp.com/liberty-lakeday-camp-top-questions-guides/ Looking Ahead: Planning for the Next 25 Years. As Liberty Lake Day Camp celebrates their 25th anniversary, this milestone also marks its next chapter. Andy and Justin say their focus remains consistent: delivering high-quality programming that helps children grow socially, emotionally, and physically.
“The elements that make camp meaningful have stayed the same,” Andy said. “Children need outdoor experiences, friendship, and opportunities that help them step outside their comfort zone. We’re committed to providing that for the next generation.”
Enrollment for the upcoming summer is currently open, with certain age groups expected to reach capacity based on prior years’ trends. Visit www.libertylakedaycamp.com.
Hamilton Area YMCA
Hamilton Area YMCA
Sawmill Summer Camp 2026
Sawmill Summer Camp 2026
SUN, SMILES &
OPEN
10:00 a.m.12:00 p.m.
10:00 a.m.12:00 p.m. HOUSES at Sawmill: 3/7 & 3/28
HOUSES at Sawmill: 3/7 & 3/28
OPEN HOUSES at Sawmill: 3/7 & 3/28 10:00 a.m.12:00 p.m.
REGISTER NOW!
REGISTER NOW!
SAVE UP TO $90 PER WEEK - Camp as low as $316 per week!
SAVE UP TO $90 PER WEEK - Camp as low as $316 per week!
Plus, make convenient monthly payments through May!
Plus, make convenient monthly payments through May!
Day Camp & Specialty Camps providing: 50 acres of outdoor space | STEM | sports games | swimming | special events | theme weeks
Day Camp & Specialty Camps providing: 50 acres of outdoor space | STEM | sports games | swimming | special events | theme weeks
Capital Health Named One of U.S. News & World Report’s
BEST HOSPITALS FOR MATERNITY CARE IN 2026
U.S. News & World Report, a global authority in hospital rankings and consumer advice, has named Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell as a 2026 High Performing hospital for Maternity Care. This is the highest award a hospital can earn as part of U.S. News’ Best Hospitals for Maternity Care annual study, now in its fifth edition.
Capital Health is one of 27 hospitals in New Jersey and the only hospital in the Greater Mercer County area to earn this recognition. This is the third consecutive year that Capital Health earned a place on the U.S. News High Performing Hospitals list for Maternity Care and the fourth time in five years since U.S. News published its first list of Best Hospitals for Maternity. U.S. News also recognized Capital Health in April 2024 for achieving excellent outcomes for cesarean sections and unexpected newborn complications among black patients.
Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell earned a High Performing designation in recognition of maternity care as measured by factors such as C-section rates in lower-risk pregnancies, severe unexpected newborn complication rates, exclusive breast milk feeding rates, and birthing-friendly practices, among other measures.
“Being recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a high performing hospital for the third year in a row—and four out of the five years the study has been published—is an important
honor for our Maternity Services team and our patients at Capital Health Medical Center - Hopewell,” said Dr. Kira Przybylko, medical director of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Capital Health. “It validates all the hard work our incredible staff does every day at the Josephine Plumeri Birthing Center, and it tells expectant mothers that we consistently provide highest level of care as we help their growing families get off to the healthiest and safest start possible.”
“Hospitals designated as a U.S. News Best Hospital for Maternity Care are national leaders. This recognition means they are consistently hitting crucial patient safety benchmarks compared to other hospitals,” said Jennifer Winston, Ph.D., health data scientist at U.S. News. “It’s a clear signal to expectant parents about where the highest standards of care are being practiced –when parents see this designation, they can be assured they are choosing a hospital dedicated to exceptional, evidence-based maternity care.”
The Maternity Services Program at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell makes up the most complete maternity facility in the area. From routine deliveries to high-risk needs, staff at the Josephine Plumeri Birthing Center at Capital Health Medical Center - Hopewell provide a full range of prenatal, obstetrical, postpartum, and neonatal care options so newborns have the greatest chance for a healthy start. The designated Regional Perinatal Center provides neonatal care, including Mercer County’s only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for at-risk births. To learn more, visit capitalhealth.org/maternity.
Capital Health Receives Five-Year Grant Award from Merck Foundation to
Launch New Initiative
to Improve Cardiovascular Care in Trenton
Capital Health has been awarded a grant through the Collaborative for Equity in Cardiac Care, a five-year initiative funded by the Merck Foundation aimed at enhancing access to high quality, person-centered health care for people living with heart conditions in the United States. As one of 11 awardees in the United States, Capital Health will receive $1.7 million over five years to develop its Cardiac Opportunities for Resilience and Empowerment (CORE) Program as part of its Institute for Urban Care. The program’s goal is to help to close gaps in the delivery of cardiac care to underserved communities in Trenton, New Jersey.
“Capital Health has a long history of working with community partners to address the health care challenges that impact Trenton residents every day,” said Dr. Eric Schwartz, executive director of Capital Health’s Institute for Urban Care and director of the CORE Program. “Our CORE Program aims to connect people living with heart conditions with care providers, community education programs, and guidance for healthy eating, all of which will enable them to better self-manage their heart health.”
Residents in the City of Trenton face a number of systemic barriers and inequities. Life expectancy is 4.4 years less than other measured cities, 26% percent of the population lives below the poverty line, and the incidence of cardiovascular disease, such as hypertension, impacts more than one third (36.1%) of the community.
Through the Merck Foundation’s Collaborative for Equity in Cardiac Care, Capital Health’s CORE Program will build sustainable community partnerships to address barriers to cardiac care and improve outcomes and quality of life for people with heart conditions. Capital Health will work with Trenton Health Team and other community partners to manage and monitor the CORE program.
“Cardiovascular disease continues to be the number one cause of death for men and women living in the U.S., and its burden hits under-resourced communities the hardest. By addressing the medical and social needs of people living with heart conditions, the Collaborative for Equity in Cardiac Care will have a significant, lasting impact on the health and wellbeing of individuals and
communities across the country,” said Kalahn Taylor-Clark, vice president and head, Social Impact & Sustainability, Merck.
Capital Health recently opened its new, state-of-the-art Al Maghazehe Heart and Vascular Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton, marking a significant expansion that covers 12,650 square feet with three operating rooms: one cardiac surgery room for open-heart procedures, one hybrid operating room, and one catheterization laboratory for interventional procedures. The new center is part of the larger Capital Health Heart and Vascular Institute, which offers comprehensive care with a multi-specialty approach at locations throughout the greater Mercer and Bucks county region.
In addition to Capital Health, Merck Foundation’s program grantees include La Clínica del Pueblo, Public Health Institute/ Population Health Innovation Lab, University of Chicago, UPMC Center for High-Value Health Care, Providence Medical Foundation, The Foundation for Black Women’s Wellness, Zufall Health Center, Georgia State University Research Foundation/ Atlanta Regional Collaborative for Health Improvement, MedNorth Health Center, and Gallup Community Health.
Capital Health Institute for Urban Care works to advance the health and well-being of Trenton residents by growing and aligning Capital Health’s services with a robust network of community partners in the City of Trenton to improve medical care while overcoming the complex social determinants of health. To learn more about the Institute, visit capitalhealth.org/urbancare.
Capital Thrift Named Best Thrift Store of 2025 in Mercer County
Capital Thrift has been recognized as the Best Thrift Store in Mercer County for 2025. This honor was certified by BusinessRate, an online platform that provides comprehensive performance metrics for businesses against local competitors based on advanced Google review data. Located at 2783 US-1 South in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, Capital Thrift is organized and operated by volunteers from Capital Health and Capital Health Foundation. The shop received top honors for excellence in customer satisfaction, brand reputation, and service excellence.
“This recognition is a direct reflection of the dedication, warmth, and commitment of the incredible volunteers who manage and operate Capital Thrift with care and purpose each day,” said Leslie Gibbons, volunteer store manager. “Their efforts not only create a welcoming retail experience but also advance Capital Health’s mission by supporting programs that benefit our patients and community.”
Capital Health Foundation works to raise and steward charitable funds to advance Capital Health’s mission to improve the health and wellbeing of the urban and suburban communities it serves. Through philanthropy, the Foundation partners with corporations, community organizations, community leaders, Capital Health colleagues, and grateful patients and families to drive impact and transform health care in the Mercer and Bucks county region. To learn more about the Capital Health Foundation, or to make a gift of support, visit CapitalHealth.org/Foundation. To learn more about Capital Thrift and for store hours, find them on Facebook at Capital Thrift NJ or call the store at 609.882.4717.
FREE UPCOMING HEALTH EDUCATION EVENTS
Register by calling 609.394.4153 or register online at capitalhealth.org/events and be sure to include your email address. Please register early. Class size is limited. Zoom meeting details will be provided via email 2 – 3 days before the program date. Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.
Is That Bump a Hernia? A Free Screening Event
Saturday, March 14, 2026 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location: Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell
NJ PURE Conference Center, One Capital Way, Pennington, NJ 08534
Hernias can affect many areas of the body, often appearing as a bump under the skin in the abdomen or groin and causing varying levels of pain.
If you have pain that affects your ability to perform day-to-day activities and think it might be a hernia, join Dr. Jooyeun Chung, director of Capital Health’s Robotic-Assisted Surgery Program, for a free hernia screening and a discussion of the latest treatment options. Staff will be available to schedule follow-up appointments, as needed. Please wear loose clothing.
Registration is required. Visit capitalhealth.org/events to reserve your spot today.
Prediabetes: What It Is and How to Prevent Diabetes
Wednesday, March 18, 2026 | 6 p.m.
Location: Zoom Meeting
Prediabetes affects millions of people and often has no clear symptoms, yet it can lead to type 2 diabetes and other health problems if not addressed early. Join Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist LaShanta Dawkins as she explains what prediabetes is, who is at risk, and how it can be detected through simple health screenings.
ADDITIONAL FREE UPCOMING HEALTH EDUCATION EVENTS:
LATEST UPDATES ON ATRIAL FIBRILLATION MANAGEMENT
Wednesday, March 25, 2026 | 6 p.m. Zoom Meeting
OUR KIDNEYS MATTER: A GUIDE TO CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE
Monday, March 30, 2026 | 6 p.m. Zoom Meeting
STOP THE BLEED
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | 6 – 8 p.m.
Capital Health EMS Education 2480 Pennington Road, Suite 107 Pennington, NJ 08534
Women at a revolutionary crossroads
Michael Skelly, Sr. BORDENTOWN HISTORY
While their husbands and sons marched to war, the women of Burlington and Mercer Counties stayed behind to face massive invasions. From the riverfront of Bordentown to the fields of Crosswicks, they weren’t just spectators—they were tacticians, spies, and survivors. As America’s 250th anniversary approaches, it is time to uncover how their ‘cunning’ and courage are finally being recognized as the secret weapons that shaped a nation.
The main road between New York and Philadelphia ran through this region, bringing a constant tide of marching armies and upheaval. With men away in the Continental Army, women became the backbone of the home front—running farms, mills and taverns that kept the economy alive. Whether negotiating with hostile foragers or shielding families from the chaos, they transformed homes into front lines of resistance.
Revolutionary taverns were social hubs, often kept alive by the grit of wives and widows. In December 1776, while Col. Oakey Hoagland was away with Washington, his wife Dinah received a warning: 2,000 Hessians were descending on Bordentown. She quickly tore down the tavern sign and shuttered the windows, successfully hiding the building at the corner of Main and Market. Though Hessians eventually broke in to loot the liquor, Dinah’s quick thinking saved the structure from total destruction, and it reopened to serve after the war.
Further north in Nottingham (Hamilton), Abigail Pearson faced an even harder path. After her husband Isaac was killed in the winter of 1776, she stepped up alone to raise their son and manage both their farm and tavern, ensuring her family and business survived the height of the conflict. In 1775, Mary Peale Field was thrust into a Revolutionary nightmare. Suddenly widowed, she was left to manage a massive estate, tavern and river landing in Fieldsboro.
Perched on a strategic bluff, her home, White Hill Mansion, was a target for every faction. When the American Navy seized her supplies, neighbors branded her a rebel; when British cavalry arrived to investigate, a fever-stricken Mary used sharp diplomacy to talk them down and save her home from a ransack. Her greatest weapon was “cunning
neutrality.” During the Hessian occupation, she hosted Capt. von Wreden and sipped tea with Count von Donop. This tactical hospitality earned her official protection orders, sparing her property while nearby farms were plundered.
Though she played the neutral host, her heart belonged to the cause. She later married the Continental Navy’s highest-ranking officer and helped the legendary Commodore John Barry evade British capture.
Much like Mary Field, Mary Comely of Bordentown saved the historic Francis Hopkinson House by hosting Hessians in 1776. Together, they prove that in the chaos of revolution, a woman’s wits were her most powerful defense.
In Bordentown, a bustling Delaware River port, women transformed their homes into vital supply centers and intelligence hubs. Among the most famous was sculptor Patience Lovell Wright. After her husband died in 1769, she and her sister Rachel opened studios in Philadelphia and New York. By 1772, her fame took her to London, where she used her elite social access to spy for Gen. Washington and the American cause. Wright’s story shows that Revolutionary influence extended beyond the battlefield—and New Jersey’s borders.
In Crosswicks and Bordentown, Quaker women faced a grueling test of faith. Caught between their pacifist beliefs and the devastation of war, they endured theft, plundered crops, stolen livestock, and burned homes from both sides. Despite the chaos, they steadfastly refused to pay “war taxes” or take up arms. Instead, they turned their homes into sanctuaries, providing food and medical care to soldiers and civilians alike proving that humanitarian aid was its own courageous form of service.
The women of northern Burlington and Mercer counties rarely appear in grand monuments or heroic paintings. Yet their daily courage—to protect families, aid neighbors, and live their convictions—made independence possible. As America approaches its 250th anniversary, remembering these women, and many more, helps restore them to their rightful place in our shared history. They were never mere spectators; they were the steady hands that guided our communities through revolution and into the dawn of a new nation.
Bernard A. Campbell, Jr. Raymond
David P. Schroth
Kimberly
Michael Skelly, Sr. is an independent historian, writer, and Board Member of Bordentown Historical Society. Anthony J. Destribats
Edgar N. Peppler Jr. Mgr/Lic # 3926, Karen E. Peppler Mgr/Lic #
For colorectal cancer screening, 45 is the new 50
Ask The Doctor
See our ads in SIX09 section pgs 5 and 7
The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that people with average risk begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45, rather than 50, which was the previous recommendation.
The updated guidelines consider the benefits of early detection and treatment for adults with no personal history or increased risk of the disease.
Meera Yogarajah, M.D., shares more about this change and why it is important. Dr. Yogarajah is at the Cancer Center at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton (RWJUH Hamilton), an RWJBarnabas Health facility, in partnership with Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Jersey’s only National Cancer Institute Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Why did the recommendation change? The diagnosis rates of colorectal cancer have increased in people younger than 50 years of age, by 2.9% per year from 2013 to 2022. Colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer death in men and women under 50, with deaths rising by 1.1% annually.
These cancers may be associated with poorer outcomes, as they are diagnosed later. In response to this trend, the USPSTF, an independent volunteer group of experts in prevention and evidence-based medicine, reviewed new data and concluded that screening for colorectal cancer in adults who are 45 to 49 years old can be helpful in preventing more people from dying of colorectal cancer.
There are several types of colorectal cancer screening methods including colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, CT colonography and stool-based tests.
Colonoscopy is a highly sensitive screening method which uses a colonoscope to inspect the rectum and entire colon. If your doctor finds polyps, they are removed and sent to a lab for further testing. The advantage of colonoscopy is removal of benign polyps, and this will prevent these polyps from turning into a cancer.
In sigmoidoscopy, the rectum and sigmoid colon are examined using a sigmoidoscope. During sigmoidoscopy, abnormal growths in the rectum and sigmoid colon can be removed for analysis (biopsied). However, only the last 20 percent of the colon is examined.
RWJUH Hamilton support groups this month
The following programs are sponsored by RWJUH Hamilton Community Education, open to all and all ages, and the Better Health Program, open to all 65+ years old. All programs take place at the Center for Health & Wellness located at RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Road, Hamilton unless otherwise noted. A full calendar of programs is online at rwjbh.org/hamiltonprograms. For for more information or to register, call 609-584-5900 or email communityedham@rwjbh.org. Registration is required to attend these programs.
MONDAY, MARCH 16
What does colorectal cancer screening entail? Colorectal cancer screening tests are used to detect cancer and remove precancerous polyps.
Both polyps and colorectal cancers can bleed, and stool tests check for tiny amounts of blood in feces (stool) that cannot be seen visually. With these tests, stool samples are collected by the patient using a kit, and the samples are returned to the doctor. People who have a positive finding with these tests will need to have a colonoscopy.
Additionally, some newer stool tests rely on detection of DNA from tumors in the stool sample, increasing the accuracy beyond using detection of trace blood alone.
Why is it important to follow these guidelines? According to the American Cancer Society estimated new cases for 2026 include approximately 108,860 cases of colon cancer and 49,990 cases of rectal cancer. Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the nation with expected deaths of 55,230 in 2026.
Colorectal cancer usually does not cause any symptoms until it is advanced and starts to spread through the body. Most colorectal cancers can be prevented through screening and testing at regular intervals, leading to detection and removal of polyps.
Colorectal cancer is largely preventable. This is why it is extremely important to follow the recommended guidelines and get an initial screening at 45 years of age for those at average risk or earlier for those at higher risk. Stop colon cancer – get screened! Visit rwjbh.org/colonscreening to make an appointment near you.
Dinner with a Doctor: Colorectal Cancer Prevention & Treatment. 6 –7 p.m. Join us for an informative lecture on colorectal cancer with Meera Yogarajah, MD, Medical Oncologist, and Rachel Perez, GI Navigator, the Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton. Learn about the importance of early detection, innovative treatments, and lifestyle factors that can reduce your risk. Dinner provided and registration required.
THuRSDAY, MARCH 19
Pelvic Floor Health Problems and Conservative Treatments Explored. 6 -7:30 p.m. A look at stress incontinence, urge incontinence, overactive bladder, painful Intercourse, genitourinary syndrome of menopause, and constipation. Learn conservative measures to help manage bladder/ bowel problems, led by Giselle Oriendo, PT, DPT, CLT, of RWJ Rehabilitation Hamilton.
MONDAY, MARCH 23
Dinner with a Doctor: Strong Shoulders Ahead. 6 –7 p.m. Join Michael R. Duch, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon, member of the Orthopedic & Spine Institute at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, and member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group. Shoulder pain slowing you down? Dr. Duch, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, will provide an eye-opening session on rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement and bursitis — three common conditions that can impact your day-today comfort. Learn what causes them, how they are treated, and the steps you can take to stay strong and mobile. Dinner provided and registration required.
TuESDAY,
MARCH 31
What is Auditory Processing Disorder & How it Relates to Hearing. 11 a.m –Noon. Join Teresa Cole, AuD, of RWJUH Hamilton’s Balance and Hearing Center, where she will discuss what Central Auditory Processing Disorder is and how it relates to hearing loss. Central Auditory Processing Disorder is a deficit in how our brain interprets the sounds we hear. Contrary to common belief, all ages can be impacted by these deficits. All are welcome to join!
Dr. Meera Yogarajah
Booking a classified ad has never been easier! Simply scan the QR code or visit communitynews.org/place_an_ad. Questions? Call us at 609-396-1511 ext. 132.
HELP WANTED
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SERVICES
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LEGAL SERVICES Wills, Power of Attorney, Real Estate, Federal and NJ Taxes, Education Law. House calls available. Bruce Cooke, Esq. 609-799-4674, 609-721-4358.
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
I Buy Guitars All Musical Instruments in Any Condition: Call Rob at 609-577-3337.
Cash paid for World War II Military Items. Helmets, swords, medals, etc. Call: 609-6582996, E-mail: lenny1944x@gmail.com
Cash paid for SELMER SAXOPHONES and other vintage models.609-658-2996 or e-mail lenny1944x@gmail.com
HAPPY HEROES used books looking to buy old Mysteries, Science Fiction, kids series books ( old Hardy boys-Nancy Drew-etc WITH DUSTJACKETS in good shape), Dell Mapbacks - PULP magazines , old role playing stuff, good conditioned pre 1975 paperbacks old COLLIER’S magazine. Call 609-619-3480 or email happyheroes@gmail.com .
