4-25 LG

Trzaskus, Jusino-Lansing eye big spring for LHS track & field

how far would you go if they were sick?

By RiCH FisHeR

Sophie Trzaskus wants to be a doctor. Tristan Jusino-Lansing hopes to be a teacher and coach. But having admirable professional goals are not the only positive trait the Lawrence High School seniors have.

Both were hindered by nagging injuries that affected them last spring, both qualified for the NJSIAA Meet of Champions

this past winter track & field season and both are looking for a big spring season.

After finishing third in the Central Jersey Group III sectionals with a pole vault mark of 9-0, Trzaskus tied her school record of 9-6 to finish sixth in the Group III state meet. She earned a wild card berth to the Meet of Champions, her first trip to the big meet.

Welcome to Capital Health.

“I didn’t think I would qualify,” she said.

See TRACK & FIELD, Page 20

When someone you care about is sick, you’ll do whatever it takes to make sure they get the best care. And so do we.

Voters OK $94.9 million school referendum

By BiLL SanseRVino

Voters decisively approved a $94.9 million referendum on March 11 to fund significant improvements to the Lawrence Township Public School District’s facilities. The vote helps pave the way the way for modernizing school buildings and enhancing educational opportunities.

The referendum, which passed with overwhelming community support, includes renovations to the 75-yearold Lawrence Middle School and the expansion needed to add the 6th grade into the building.

According to unofficial results fromt the Mercer County Clerk’s Office,

the vote was 2,677 (59.6%) vs. 1,756 (40.40%) in favor of the measure. A total of 4,433 of the township’s 26,100 registered voters cast ballots—a turnout of 16.98%.

Voting in person were 2,676 residents, with 1,755 voting by mail.

Planned upgrades span several district facilities, addressing long-standing infrastructure needs and ensuring the schools meet the demands of 21st-century learning.

“This is an exciting moment for LTPS,” said Superintendent Dr. Robyn Klim. “We are creating a stronger academic experience for our students and ensuring our facilities meet the needs

2025 municipal budget would keep taxes flat

By BiLL SanseRVino

Lawrence Township Council was expected to approve its 2025 municipal budget following a public hearing on April 1.

The $60.4 million municipal spending plan focuses on bolstering public safety, reducing debt, and maintaining essential services, all while holding the municipal tax rate steady for the second consecutive year.

In his budget message, Municipal

Manager Kevin Nerwinski highlighted the township’s fiscal discipline and strategic planning that have allowed it to weather economic uncertainties without burdening taxpayers with increased taxes.

“We continue to enjoy a favorable financial situation that allows us to provide (and improve upon) the essential services our community deserves and expects from their local government,” Nerwinski said.

See BUDGET, Page 4 See REFERENDUM, Page 6

With a collaborative structure so our doctors can craft a treatment that’s uniquely right for you. With primary care physicians who never schedule an appointment that’s less than 20 minutes. With world-renowned surgeons that are changing cancer treatment.

Because you’d go to the ends of the earth for the people you care about. And we do too.

Lawrence High School senior Tristan Jusino-Lansing flies over a hurdle during a meet in Toms River. (Photo by Tim Collins.)

RWJUH Hamilton April Healthy Living / Community Education Programs

CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP

Wednesday, Apr. 2; 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

CARING FOR LOVED ONES WITH CHRONIC CONDITIONS

Mondays, Apr. 7 & Apr. 21; 10:30 a.m.11:30 a.m.

ADULT CHILDREN CARING FOR PARENTS

Mondays, Apr. 7 & Apr. 21; 5:30 p.m.7:00 p.m.

LETTING GO OF CLUTTER

Tuesday, Apr. 8; 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

PREDIABETES CONNECT GROUP

Tuesday, Apr. 15; 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP

Wednesday, Apr. 16; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday, Apr. 1; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Presented by The Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton, this support group welcomes those who have received a breast cancer diagnosis in all phases of their journey. An oncology nurse navigator and certified oncology social worker will offer participants an opportunity to share personal experiences, helpful resources, and methods of coping with feelings of anxiety and distress. Please call 609.584.2836 to confirm attendance.

THE AARP DRIVING COURSE

Monday, Apr. 7; 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Be a safer, better driver. Most insurance companies will lower your premium with a completion certificate. Bring your NJ or PA driver’s license. Fee: $20 for AARP members presenting a valid AARP card;

YOGA CLASSES

Tuesday, Apr. 8 & 22; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

MEDITATION CLASSES

Tuesday, Apr. 8 & 22; 11:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

CHAIR YOGA

Tuesday, Apr. 8 & 22; 12:00 p.m. - 12:45 p.m.

TAI CHI

Tuesday, Apr. 3 & 17; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

$25 for nonmembers. Bring cash (exact change) or check (payable to “AARP”) with you on the day of the class. “WII” ARE POWERED GAME TIME

Thursday, Apr. 10; 2:30 p.m.- 3:30 p.m.

Join RWJ Rehabilitation, RWJUH Hamilton, for this fun hour of Wii games and learn about safe mechanics. Mastering body movement is leveling up your real-life stats. Play smart, move like a pro, and stay in the game longer!

THE POWER OF FOOD: NUTRITION STRATEGIES FOR DIABETES

Monday, Apr. 14; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Tuesday, Apr. 22; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Join Lori Hager, MS, RD, and 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. These sessions will occur the 2nd Monday (daytime) and 4th Tuesday (evening) monthly. MISCONCEPTIONS VS. LIFESAVING REALITIES OF ORGAN DONATION

Tuesday, Apr. 15; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Did you know one organ donor can save eight lives and help 75 more by donating tissue and corneas? Adults 18 and older can register to be organ and tissue donors, regardless of medical history or age. Join the NJ Sharing Network and Tim Ryan, MSN, RN, CEN, Nursing Professional Development

Practitioner, CPDIR, RWJUH Hamilton, for this informative talk.

GYNECOLOGIC CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday, Apr. 15; 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

This group brings individuals with gynecologic cancer the support, education, and empowerment they need to move along the path to recovery. Topics discussed include coping with the emotional impact of cancer, adjusting to changes during and after treatment, and managing concerns about recurrence. To register, call 609-584-6680. This program takes place at The Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton, 2575 Klockner Rd., Hamilton, NJ.

CAN OTC HEARING AIDS WORK FOR ME?

Wednesday, Apr. 16; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

To increase the public’s access to hearing aids and improve hearing, the FDA established a new category of Over-The-Counter (OTC) hearing aids for adults 18 years of age and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. Join Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D., audiologist at RWJUH Hamilton’s Balance & Hearing Center, as she talks about the availability of OTC hearing aids and who can benefit from them.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS

Wednesday, Apr. 16; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Learn how to help heal your body and relax your busy mind. No experience necessary.

LUNCH & LEARN: TREATING COMPLEX GASTROINTESTINAL CONDITIONS

Thursday, Apr. 10; 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

A SOCIAL HOUR ESPECIALLY FOR SENIORS

Wednesday, Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Don’t miss an opportunity to participate in lifechanging conversations, listening, learning, and exploring for this time in our lives. Topics created for you by you. Every week is new and something different. Join us on all the dates, two, or even one. It’s your choice. New members are always welcome.

Learn about advanced gastrointestinal care and the latest specialized techniques and equipment being used to diagnose and treat complex GI conditions from our experts, Christopher Chum, DO, Board Certified in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine, and Imran Fayyaz, MD, Board Certified in Gastroenterology, President, RWJUH Hamilton Medical Staff and RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group member.

NOURISH YOUR BRAIN: COOKING FOR BRAIN HEALTH

Friday, Apr. 11; 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Have some fun while learning recipes that can help fuel your brain.

STROKE SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday, Apr. 22; 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

This group is a place for survivors and caregivers to build a community. Share personal experiences, feelings, recovery strategies, and firsthand information on managing life after stroke. Meetings will be facilitated by RWJUH Hamilton Rehab experts, Ashley Sarrol, Speech-Language Pathologist, & Allyson PanikowskiBerry, Occupational Therapist. Survivors and care partners at any stage of recovery are encouraged to attend.

HERBS TO HELP PROMOTE RESTFUL SLEEP

Tuesday, Apr. 22; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Explore how herbs can support your mind and body to ease into restful sleep. You’ll learn about seven herbs that promote sleep and how to incorporate them into your nightly routine. Sample a tasty oxymel (a sweet-sour herbal syrup) and make a sleep oxymel to take home. Fee: $20

HEART-HEALTHY NUTRITION

Wednesday, Apr. 23; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Join our bimonthly nutrition education class about making dietary choices that support cardiovascular health. Discuss the principles of heart-healthy nutrition, learn tips for meal planning and preparation, and explore recipes.

REIKI SHARE

Wednesday, Apr. 23; 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

For folks who have been Reiki certified (at any level) to come share the gift with fellow practitioners. Give a

BREAKFAST & LEARN: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) IN HEALTH CARE WITH KENNEDY GANTI, MD

Thursday, Apr. 17; 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming health care. Join Kennedy Ganti, MD, FAAFP, FHELA, Regional VP of Health Informatics, RWJBarnabas Health, and Clinical Instructor, Department of Family Medicine, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, for a discussion about AI and how it can improve your health.

A BETTER HEALTH PROGRAM: GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE WELLNESS WALK, RWJUH HAMILTON

Wednesday, Apr. 23; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Friday, Apr. 25; 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Grounds for Sculpture welcomes us for their Wellness Walk! Whether you are a fast or slower walker, there will be a group for you. Join us to

session, get a session. Please bring a sheet and small pillow.

SPRING SMOOTHIE

Tuesday, Apr. 29; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Learn how to make quick, delicious, and nutritious smoothies. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing breakfast, quick meal, a post-workout snack, or a healthy dessert, smoothies are a fantastic option.

HEARING AND BALANCE SCREENINGS

Wednesday, Apr. 30; 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Join us for these free screenings. These 15-minute appointments are designed to help assess your hearing health or your balance health/fall risk. To schedule your required appointment, call 609-245-7390. Location: RWJ Balance & Hearing Center, 2 Hamilton Health Pl, Hamilton Township, NJ.

SPEAK, LISTEN, CONNECT: THE KEYS TO MEANINGFUL & EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION

Wednesday, Apr. 30; 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn how to express yourself with clarity, listen with empathy, and navigate tough conversations with confidence. Whether in love, friendships, or work, discover practical tools to build deeper, more meaningful connections. Walk away with communication skills that transform the way you relate to others. Fee: $15

*All programs require registration and are held at the RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd., Hamilton, NJ, unless otherwise noted.

boost your energy, connect with nature, explore art and meet new people. Member attendees are invited to enjoy GFS for the remainder of the day. Please only register for one date.

BREAKFAST & LEARN: SOCIAL SECURITY AND YOUR RETIREMENT

Thursday, Apr. 24; 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Learn strategies to help you maximize your Social Security benefits.

LET’S TALK ABOUT THOSE GOLDEN YEARS WITH NAMI MERCER

Tuesday, Apr. 29; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Reaching our “golden years” brings a myriad of life changes – some joyous and some challenging. Janet Haag, Executive Director, NAMI Mercer, will lead this discussion on aging. Aging well isn’t about defying time – it’s about embracing it with grace and gusto. Together, let’s explore the landscape of mental wellbeing in later 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

FROM THE EDITOR Subscribe for a chance to win a Trenton Thunder ‘Pic-a-Plan’

Did you know that we update our website, communitynews.org, on a regular basis? What we publish in the newspaper is just a portion of the news that we bring to the community each week.

Here are some headlines from the past month that didn’t appear in print:

• Hamilton, Mercer County to host job fair Friday

• Fatal shooting in Trenton under investigation

• After years of vacancy, Patel Brothers revives Risoldi’s iconic space

• Lawrence voters approve $94.9 million school referendum

We can’t always fit all the news in the paper, which is one reason that we have our website. Although you can read all the stories we publish there too.

But you don’t have to remember to log

in to our website on a daily basis. That’s where our email newsletters come in.

Scan the QR code to the right to be taken to our weekly newsletter sign-up page. Just drop your email address in the box and you’re done. And subscribers to our newsletters are always eligible to win prizes, just for being subscribed. This month’s giveaway is a Trenton Thunder 1-game “Pic-a-Plan” ticket package. One lucky winner will have a chance to win tickets to 10 Thunder games plus four free Thunder hats.

So subscribe today. Or if you are already subscribed, keep an eye out for an email from us, in case you are the winner!

LAWRENCE GAZETTE

We are a newsroom of your neighbors. The Lawrence Gazette 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)

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Joe Emanski, Rich Fisher

AD LAYOUT AND PRODUCTION

Stacey Micallef (Ext. 131)

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Christine Storie (Ext. 115)

Community News Service

9 Princess Road, Suite M Lawrenceville, NJ 08648

Phone: (609) 396-1511

News: news@communitynews.org

Events: events@communitynews.org

Sports: sports@communitynews.org

Letters: bsanservino@communitynews.org

WebsiEldridge: lawrencegazette.com

Facebook: facebook.com/CommunityNewsService X: x.com/_CommunityNews_

15,000 copies of the Lawrence Gazette are mailed or bulk-distributed to the residences and businesses of Lawrence 12 times a year.

TO ADVERTISE

call (609) 396-1511, ext. 110 or e-mail advertise@communitynews.org

proud member of:

The township is consistently working to lower its debt, grow its surplus, and enhance public safety by adding more personnel, Nerwinski said. It remains committed to a proactive and forward-looking capital improvement plan while presenting a budget that.

“Where we find ourselves today isn’t by happenstance,” he said. “It is from a consistent, fiscally responsible approach to governance over the past eight years and the good work of the employees who serve our community.

The township remains in a strong financial position, which enables it to deliver and enhance vital services.

“Our current standing is no accident; it is the result of a steady and fiscally responsible approach to governance over the past eight years,” Nerwinski said.

One of the standout features of the 2025 budget is a focus on public safety, with plans to add three new police officers and three new firefighters. The staffing increase is aimed at enhancing the township’s emergency response capabilities and ensuring the continued safety of residents.

The budget also covers the hiring of 11 dispatchers as part of the transition to an in-house 911 dispatch service. There is no expected increase in annual costs associ-

At Greenwood House, our residents, families and caregivers LOVE HOW MUCH WE CARE! AND YOU WILL, TOO. But don’t take our word for it.

– DR. KEVIN McGUIGAN Medical Director of Rehabilitation

ated with the change.

In addition to hiring new personnel, the township has also increased its annual contribution to its three volunteer fire companies by $10,000 each, bringing the total annual funding for each company to $70,000.

For the second year in a row, Lawrence Township will see no increase in the municipal tax rate, which remains at 0.652 cents per $100 of assessed property value.

A property owner with a home assessed at the township’s 2025 average of $287,570 will pay $1,874.96 in municipal taxes, a modest increase from the $1,863.20 paid in 2024 due to an increase in the average property assessment.

The township’s total budget of $60.39 million represents a slight decrease from the previous year’s budget of $60.72 million. However, the township plans to raise some $31,000 through property taxes, up by $214,461.81 from 2024. The increase is driven by increased property assessments.

Nerwinski said the township’s sound fiscal management is reflected in its ability to grow its surplus and reduce its debt.

At the end of 2024, the township’s surplus stood at $22.1 million, an increase of more than $1.45 million from the previous year. Of this surplus, $9.3 million will be used as revenue in the 2025 budget, allowing the township to keep taxes low while

still maintaining services and making necessary capital improvements.

In terms of debt, the township has continued to make strides. Since 2010, Lawrence Township’s outstanding debt has decreased from $30.8 million to $8.37 million at the end of 2024. The 2025 budget includes plans to reduce debt by another $2.42 million.

While public safety enhancements and fiscal responsibility are central to the 2025 budget, the township also has plans for significant capital improvements, particularly at the Lawrence Community Center.

The budget allocates $1 million to fund upgrades and improvements at the center, a move that will benefit residents and provide a modernized space for community events and activities.

Other notable increases in the budget include $842,628 for salary and wage increases due to new hires and contractual obligations, and an $841,482.40 increase in employee group health insurance costs, attributed to the rising costs of the New Jersey State Health Benefits Program and the addition of new employees.

Under the NJSHBP, employees contribute a percentage of the premium for their applicable coverage, with salary levels guiding these percentage contributions. Employees will contribute a total of $1.4 million toward the cost of their health

Senior Healthcare

Personalized high-quality care, safety, security, expert staffing, kindness and love are all the things our clients, residents, and families love about Greenwood House the most! But don’t take our word for it. Hear it straight from them. Visit our website and read the many letters of thanks and appreciation at GreenwoodHouse.org/testimonials

• Post-Acute Rehabilitation

• Orthopedic Surgery Recovery Rehab

• Stroke Rehab

• Parkinson’s Disease Rehabilitation Programs

• Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy

• Long-Term Care

• Skilled Nursing

“After I completed my residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at the University of Pennsylvania, I joined the medical staff of St. Lawrence Rehabilitation Center and practiced there for 33 years, 27 of those years as the Medical Director. When St. Lawrence was sold to a corporation, I made the decision to move my practice, and the ONLY call I made was to Greenwood House. Throughout my many years in Mercer County, I knew that Greenwood House was a 5-star facility that was highly regarded by

us today (609) 718-0587 Or email us at info@greenwoodhouse.org

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• Respite Care

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• Hospice Care**

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INCOME TA X PREPARATION

A architectural rendering of some of the improvements at the the Lawrence Middle School site that were approved in the school district’s referendum.

REFERNDUUM continued from Page 1

of 21st-century learning.”

She added: “This project will benefit generations of students to come, and we are incredibly grateful to our community for making it possible.”

The improvements include the addition of specialized learning spaces at LMS for science, art and life skills, along with enhanced facilities for special education, nurse and guidance services, and the child study team.

Upgrades will also focus on improving traffic flow, parking and security, including the installation of a secure visitor entrance.

The Lawrence Home Improvement Program

The Lawrence Home Improvement Program

Lawrence is accep�ng names for par�cipa�on in its municipally sponsored home improvement program for low and moderate-income families. Your name can be added to the wai�ng list by calling our program consultant Affordable Housing Administrators at 732-966-0674.

District officials emphasized that safety and capital maintenance are key components of the project. Planned upgrades include roof replacements, asbestos abatement, kitchen renovations, and bathroom refurbishments across multiple schools.

Athletic fields, gymnasiums, and auditoriums will also see significant improve-

Lawrence is accepting names for participation in its municipally sponsored home improvement program for low and moderate-income families. Your name can be added to the waiting list by calling our program consultant Affordable Housing Administrators at 732-966-0674.

Eligible home improvements include roofing, windows, electrical upgrades, hea�ng systems, water heaters, insula�on, plumbing and any other health, safety or code viola�ons. The program is structured as a forgivable loan. There are no monthly payments and no interest. If you stay in your home for ten years, you will owe nothing to Lawrence.

Eligible home improvements include roofing, windows, electrical upgrades, heating systems, water heaters, insulation, plumbing and any other health, safety or code violations. The program is structured as a forgivable loan. There are no monthly payments and no interest. If you stay in your home for ten years, you will owe nothing to Lawrence.

The program is available for owner-occupied single-family homes, condominiums, townhomes and duplexes in which the owner occupies one of the units. To be eligible to par�cipate, your gross annual income (meaning pre-tax income) for all household members must be less than:

The program is available for owner-occupied single-family homes, condominiums, townhomes and duplexes in which the owner occupies one of the units. To be eligible to participate, your gross annual income (meaning pre-tax income) for all household members must be less than:

1 person household

2 person household

3 person household

4 person household

5 person household

6 person household

$72,830

$83,234

$93,639

$104,043

$112,367

ments, offering safer and more functional spaces for students, staff, and the community.

Lawrence Township School Board President Michele Bowes expressed appreciation for the community’s support.

“Our schools are the heart of our community, and this investment in our schools will have a lasting impact,” said Bowes. “We are profoundly appreciative of the community’s support in making this vision a reality.”

The measure is expected to raise annual school taxes by less than $350 for homeowners with properties assessed at the township’s average value of approximately $285,000.

With the referendum approved, LTPS will now begin the planning and implementation process. The district has pledged to keep the community informed throughout the project.

For more details about the referendum and next steps, see ltps.org/referendum.

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N.J. State Museum marks 130 years

Special anniversary celebration set for April

By Joe Emanski

The staff of the New Jersey State Museum was all set to host a 125th anniversary celebration in 2020 when the pandemic put the kibosh on those plans.

And since “126th anniversary” or “127th anniversary” just doesn’t have much of a ring, executive director Margaret O’Reilly and her staff had to be content to wait until another round number came along — which is why the museum is finally celebrating this month with party marking its 130 years in existence.

On Thursday, April 17 from 6 to 8 p.m., the New Jersey State Museum Foundation plans to commemorate the museum’s anniversary with a celebration that will include an exclusive preview of the museum’s newest exhibition, “Ecosystems at Risk: Threatened and Endangered in New Jersey.”

At this fundraising event, former museum trustees Karen S. Ali, Larry Conti, Gabrielle Deen, Sally Lane and

Dolores Yazujian, as well as former foundation executive director Nicole Jannotte Stubbs, will receive the Museum Legacy Award.

The exhibition, which will be on view from April 19 through March 15, 2026, takes visitors through each of New Jersey’s major ecosystems: Skylands, Piedmont, Pinelands, Delaware River, Delaware Bay and Atlantic Coast.

The exhibition highlights the threatened and endangered wildlife that are native to each region, from bobcats in the Skylands to piping plovers along the coast. There are more than 2,000 plant species native to the state as well.

The exhibition also details the threats that our wildlife and habitats face, as well as what residents can do to help protect them. The exhibits also provide examples of research underway that may offer hope for the future of biodiversity in the state.

O’Reilly has worked at the museum for 36 years, serving as the executive director since 2015. She says the new exhibition makes sense now because climate change is a topic that is front and center.

“We try to do programs that relate

to what some of the schools are doing, because fully 40 percent of our visitors are students,” O’Reilly says. “We are all talking about climate in New Jersey right now. Climate change is an important topic in New Jersey because we’re right up against the ocean and feeling and seeing the effects of it.”

The New Jersey State Museum has four main areas of focus: archaeology and ethnography; cultural history; fine art; and natural history. O’Reilly says that when coming up with new ideas for feature exhibitions, she and her staff look to rotate through those main subjects, though there is no specific pattern to how they rotate.

The most recent feature exhibition at the museum focused on the work of a single artist, Robert Duran. Duran, well known in New York art circles in the 1970’s and 80’s, dropped out of sight when the gallery that represented him closed.

He moved to New Jersey and continued painting, but never again sought representation. “He had been in big shows and reviewed by big critics, but after the 1980’s he never showed again,” says

O’Reilly, who was the museum’s curator of fine art before becoming executive director. “After he died, a gallery in New York got his estate from the family and saw the work he had been producing. He became a New Jersey artist after moving here, so I’m really proud that we reintroduced this artist to the world.”

When a curator has an idea for a possible future exhibition, the first thing O’Reilly and her staff do is think about how the idea might be executed. They consider how it would look, what it would cost, whether there would be adequate space to display it.

“Once an idea jells, our curators develop an exhibition idea, they reveal it to the entire exhibition committee, and we talk about budget and that kind of thing. If we can figure out a budget, or know we can fundraise for it, we put it on the schedule.”

Three staff members took the lead in bringing Ecosystems at Risk to life. Dana Ehret, the museum’s curator of natural history; Julie Vastano, assistant curator of natural history; and Devra Hock-Reid, assistant curator for science education, ran point, with other staff members pro-

An eastern box turtle, one of more than 3,700 animal species

viding advice and expertise as needed.

Museum staff worked closely with members of the Department of Environmental Protection as well.

Ehret had the original inspiration for the exhibition. Ehret grew up in the state, making regular visits to the beach and taking hikes in state and local parks with his family. He studied marine biology at Stockton University and worked at the

Wetlands Institute in Stone Harbor during college.

He says these experiences gave him a deep appreciation for the diversity of New Jersey’s ecosystems. “I hope visitors to the ‘Ecosystems at Risk’ exhibition take away a greater appreciation for New Jersey’s natural areas and the rich diversity of wildlife that shares our great state,” Ehret says. “I also hope our visitors learn about some of the wonderful work the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Fish and Wildlife staff do to protect our environment.”

Shortly after Ecosystems at Risk opens to the public, it will serve as the centerpiece for another event, this one coinciding with Earth Day. On April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the museum will host a variety of activities including urban birdwatching, water health talk, a discussion on tidal marshlands and a planetarium show, “We Are Guardians,” that offers perspective on ecosystems worldwide.

The feature exhibition is just one of many things that visitors will be able to see on the four floors of the New Jersey State Museum at any given time. Anyone who grew up in New Jersey can probably tell you what is on display there from the school field trips they took there as children. Fossils, Native American artifacts,

See NJSM, Page 10

Patio Specialist

•

•

Replacing cracked pavers, concrete and stone

Re mortar cracked or missing joints

Settling issues • Masonry cleaning

native to New Jersey. (Photo courtesy of New Jersey State Museum.)

colonial home furnishings, flags of the Civil War era.

The pieces on display may change, but many standing exhibitions have been active for years. “Almost any museum you go to, there are things that have to be on view — things that visitors expect,” O’Reilly says. “If you go to the Louvre and the Mona Lisa’s not on view, that’s a problem. Forty percent of our attendance is school groups, and those teachers are teaching the same things every year.

“Some things can’t stay on view for long — photographs, textiles, things that start to break down if on display for any length of time. So that quilt you saw three months ago might not still be on view, but another quilt might be.”

O’Reilly and the museum’s curators are always looking for ways to ensure that the standing exhibitions stay fresh, even after decades on view. “The way we evolve as humans, we learn differently (over time). Our educators are always thinking about that in terms of the programs they do, working with the curators on terms of making the exhibitions understandable to the general public,” O’Reilly says. “We look at exhibitions now and again and say, this needs to be changed completely, or this needs to be updated.”

The New Jersey State Museum in its original location, the New Jersey State House, circa 1902. (Photo courtesy of the New Jersey State Museum.)

As a state agency, the museum receives an annual appropriation to cover operations. The appropriation does not always allow for the budgeting of everything on the agenda, which is where the New Jersey State Museum Foundation comes in.

Formerly known as the Friends of the

State Museum, the nonprofit foundation serves as a major fundraising entity for the museum, hosting events such as the 130th anniversary celebration.

The foundation also helps the museum secure grants that are only open to nonprofit organizations. Some exhibitions

Your First Home Made Possible.

are funded partially or entirely by grants and donations.

The museum was established by the New Jersey Legislature in 1895 during the term of Gov. George T. Werts. It began as a collection of display cases on the third floor of the State House. After the State House Annex opened in 1929, the museum took up residence in a wing of the new building.

Then in 1965, the museum moved to its current, standalone space, a Mid-Century Modern building whose architecture has fallen out and then back into style over the past 60 years. The museum, along with the New Jersey State Planetarium that connects to the main building’s lower level, has been serving the people of New Jersey since 1965.

The main building underwent significant renovations between 2004 and 2008, but for the most part, remains much the same as it was when it first opened. O’Reilly says it has generally held up well.

“Of course, every museum will tell you they need more space,” she says. “None of us shows the majority of their collection. Museums worldwide show somewhere between 8 and 12% of their inventory full time. We would love more space for teaching, for exhibits, but it works for where we are right now.”

Web: nj.gov/state/museum.

Summer family fun

Tomato Patch at Kelsey Theater

Reach for the Stars — Register Now!

A few weeks can last a lifetime! Find out at Tomato Patch Summer Workshops in Theater, Dance, Vocal Music, Video, and Visual Arts! Students make lasting friendships and wonderful memories while becoming an accomplished performer/artist.

Now in its 25th year, Tomato Patch is the longest-running, most successful multi-disciplinary Visual and Performing Arts program in Central New Jersey. Featuring classes for all school age students, Tomato Patch is taught by a talented staff of professional artists.

Tomato Patch Workshops is a multidisciplinary full-day Theater, Dance, Music, Visual Art, and Video summer program for ages 10-18 in two sessions:

Session 1: Grades 8-12, minimum age 13. June 30 through July 24; no Tomato Patch on July 4. Only $1,175.

Session 2: Grades 4-7, minimum age 10. July 28 through August 14. Only $1,100.

Hours are 8:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. with before and after care available.

Tomato Patch Workshops culminate in The Festival Of The Arts!

Unlike every other performing arts camp, Tomato Patch allows you to major in one subject and take classes in other areas. Become a triple threat!

A Master Class is available for advanced theater students. There are two sessions, same price at Tomato Patch.

The Master Class in Theater culminates in A Night of One Acts!

For more information and to view class schedules visit www. tomatopatch.org or call 609-570-3566.

Bob Smith Soccer Academy

Soccer camps for ages 5 to 14

The Bob Smith Soccer Academy has been a family-owned and operated business since the early 1990s. This summer, it offers camps at two locations for boys and girls, ages 5 to 14.

The first camp takes places outdoors at The Robbinsville Community Park from July 7 through 11 and August 11 through 15.

The second, is at their new location, an indoor, air conditioned turf field, The Multisport Kingdom in Manalapan from July 21 through 28,August 4 through 8, and August 18 through 22.

Full-day camp runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and half-day camp runs from 9 a.m. to noon. Camps are designed to improve soccer skills to players of beginner, intermediate and travel levels.

They offer free before and aftercare, from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

Bob Smith, A United States Soccer Hall of Fame member since 2006,

played internationally and in the USA for 11 years.

After he retired, he passed on his love of the game to the young players of New Jersey at his soccer camps held at Mercer County Park. He always has the most qualified, professional staff by his side, His soccer academy was founded at the Robbinsville Fieldhouse, where his skilled staff and manager Joe Donigan, provided training for players ages 4-15, hundreds of youth travel teams, and many men’s leagues.

Operations have since relocated to Multisport Kingdom in Manalapan, where they continue to train players of all ages and levels, host summer camps, and run travel leagues for 225 youth teams from all around the state. Bob Smith’s son Dylan, who also played in college and internationally, helps run the academy and is the director of coaching for Freehold Soccer.

Bob Smith Soccer Academy, 150 Woodward Road, Manalapan. www. bobsmithsoccer.com email: info@ bobsmithsoccer.com. Register today and get a $25 discount for early registration!

RSM Princeton

Advance Your Child’s Math Learning This Summer!

Summer math classes at RSM Princeton are now enrolling!

RSM’s award-winning program can help your child reinforce their math skills over the summer. RSM’s program has been trusted by parents for over 25 years across 75+ locations in North America. We take pride in ensuring each student learns in an environment that is optimal for them while boosting their confidence in math and learning abilities.

About RSM. At RSM, we use the rigorous study of mathematics as a vehicle to develop our students’ math fluency, intellect, and character, empowering them for life. 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.

RSM’s curriculum is inspired by elite mathematical schools in the former Soviet Union, adapted to meet

Summer family fun

the needs of students in the U.S. educational system. Our curriculum has continually been perfected by our curriculum department over the past 25 years.

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.

Summer Program Details: 6-Week and 3-Week Offerings. This summer, RSM Princeton is offering courses that run for six or three weeks. Our 6-Week program has two classes per week and starts in June. Class durations vary depending on the student’s grade. Our 3-Week program

has four classes per week and begins in July. Classes in our 3-Week program run for three hours per day. Classroom Environment: Students are instructed by an expert teacher leading an interactive lesson in an in-person class environment. Who Can Join? RSM Princeton

has summer classes for students in grades K-12 and is also offering math competition classes for students looking for an additional challenge.

Get Started Today! Visit our website at mathschool.com/Princeton to view the summer schedule for RSM Princeton and enroll your child today.

Accomplished Breast Surgeons Join Cancer Specialists at Capital Health

Dr. Yi Huang and Dr. Jenna Mancinelli, fellowship trained breast surgeons who specialize in surgical care for benign and malignant breast diseases, have joined Capital Health as part of its Cancer Center and Center for Comprehensive Breast Care. As part of Capital Health Cancer Center and Capital Health Surgical Group – Breast Surgery, they offer office appointments in Pennington, New Jersey and Newtown, Pennsylvania and offer advanced treatments for breast cancer, skin-sparing/nipple-sparing mastectomies, and oncoplastic and hidden scar procedures.

oncology at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, where she trained with national leaders in the field of breast surgery. As medical director of Capital Health Center for Comprehensive Breast Care, she leads a multidisciplinary team to create personalized care plans for each patient.

“Capital Health is known for providing women in our region the best possible treatment for breast cancer and other breast health conditions,” said DR. YI HUANG, who joins as medical director of the Center for Comprehensive Breast Care. “Our nationally accredited program is designed to inspire confidence in our patients, and I’m excited to work with Dr. Mancinelli and lead an expansive team that includes radiologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, plastic surgeons, pathologists, rehabilitation services, and other support services.”

Before joining Capital Health, Dr. Huang was a breast surgeon and director of the breast program at Jefferson Health – Northeast in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. After finishing her general surgery residency at Northwell North Shore – Long Island Jewish Medical Center in Manhasset, New York, where she served as Chief Resident, Dr. Huang completed her fellowship in breast surgical

DR. JENNA MANCINELLI completed her general surgery residency at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she served as Chief Resident. She completed breast surgical oncology fellowship training at MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper University Hospital in Camden, New Jersey. Outside the clinical setting, Dr. Mancinelli was Academic Chief Resident for General Surgery at PCOM, where she developed a new curriculum for the general surgery residency program that incorporated the fundamentals of surgical training, simulation, wellness, professional development, and research education.

Capital Health Center for Comprehensive Breast Care, part of Capital Health Cancer Center, offers a complete range of personalized breast care programs and services — from advanced genetic and diagnostic testing to leading edge surgical, medical and radiation oncologic care — all at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell. To make an office appointment with Dr. Huang or Dr. Mancinelli in Pennington or Newtown, call 609.537.6700 or visit capitalhealthcancer.org/appointment.

Capital Health Meets International Standards for Surgical Excellence

Eleven surgeons and five areas of focus at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell have achieved accreditation from the Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) for their high standards and commitment to the delivery of quality patient care and safety across a range of surgical specialties.

Capital Health physicians received the SRC Surgeon of Excellence designation in five areas of specialization, including:

Colorectal Surgery

Ashlee Godshalk Ruggles, MD, FACS, FASCRS

Hernia Surgery

… Joseph DellaCroce, MD, FACS

… Michael Kalina, DO, FACOS, FACS

Minimally Invasive Gynecology

… Robert Berk, MD, FACOG

… Donald DeBrakeleer, DO

… Meghan Patel, MD, FACOG

Kira Przybylko, MD, FACOG

… Audrey Tashjian, MD, FACOG

… Joyce Varughese, MD, FACOG

… Anne Walker, MD, FACOG

Minimally Invasive Surgery

… Jooyeun Chung,MD

… Donald DeBrakeleer, DO

… Joseph DellaCroce, MD, FACS

Ashlee Godshalk Ruggles, MD, FACS, FASCRS

… Michael Kalina, DO, FACOS, FACS

… Kira Przybylko, MD, FACOG

… Audrey Tashjian, MD, FACOG

… Joyce Varughese, MD, FACOG

Anne Walker, MD, FACOG

Robotic Surgery

… Jooyeun Chung, MD

… Joseph DellaCroce, MD, FACS

… Ashlee Godshalk Ruggles, MD, FACS, FASCRS

Joyce Varughese, MD, FACOG

… Anne Walker, MD, FACOG

Programs at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell that received SRC’s Center of Excellence accreditation include Colorectal Surgery, Hernia Surgery, Minimally Invasive Gynecology, Minimally Invasive Surgery, and Robotic Surgery.

“Being accredited by the SRC means that our qualifying surgeons, programs, and centers meet national and international standards for surgical excellence,” said Dr. Joshua Eisenberg, chief physician executive of Capital Health. “We have spent years recruiting and building high quality programs in a number of

specialties, and this recognition lets our community know about the advanced expertise and high quality that Capital Health is devoted to providing.”

Established in 2003, Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) is an internationally recognized, nonprofit, patient safety organization dedicated to recognizing and refining surgical care. SRC accredits the top hospitals, surgeons and health professionals worldwide that meet proven standards.

To learn more, visit capitalhealth.org.

Grants from Capital Health’s Trenton Neighborhood Initiative Support Improvements to Local Businesses

As part of its effort to invest in the community surrounding Capital Health Regional Medical Center (RMC) on Brunswick Avenue in Trenton, Capital Health has awarded grants totaling nearly $50,000 to seven local small businesses through its Trenton Neighborhood Initiative (TNI). Recognizing the power of local businesses and their vital role in the community served by Capital Health, the TNI Thrives Business Grant Program supports and promotes the growth and success of entrepreneurs in North Trenton.

The inaugural recipients of TNI Thrives Business Grants are MBM Fashion Variety, Mendez Auto Repair, Seafood #1, New Way Deli, New Religion Barber Shop, Ronnie’s Room LLC, and Stylez from the Heart. Business owners will apply their respective grants to fund important needs like employee training, equipment upgrades, expansion, and repairs, all of which promote local growth as well as a safer and more prosperous community.

“Trenton has been Capital Health’s home for more than 125 years, so we believe our responsibility to the community extends beyond the walls of our hospitals and medical offices,” said Al Maghazehe, president and CEO of Capital Health. “Our day-to-day work focuses on delivering services that are critical to the health of our patients, but we know good health requires a holistic approach.

TNI focuses on delivering innovative programs like the TNI Thrives Business Grants to help local businesses flourish and create safer and healthier environments for the residents they serve.”

“As someone who grew up here, our commitment to the neighborhoods surrounding Capital Health Regional Medical

Center and the broader Trenton community is especially meaningful to me,” said Samuel J. Plumeri, Jr., Chairman, Board of Trustees, Capital Healthcare Inc. “By investing in the future of Trenton and its residents, TNI programs like this will have a lasting positive impact on the community and the city as a whole.”

Capital Health launched the Trenton Neighborhood Initiative in 2021. With implementation partner Trenton Health Team, and many other community partners, TNI works to address the social determinants that influence the health of Trenton residents. The TNI Thrives Business Grant Program is a key part of the initiative’s Work pillar, which also includes scholarship programs, workshops to connect local entrepreneurs to educational resources, and networking opportunities for business owners.

In addition to Capital Health’s significant investment, TNI’s $10 million investment in Trenton is generously supported by Allied Universal, Bank of America, the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation, Investors Bank, Janssen/Johnson & Johnson, Labcorp Foundation, Citizens Bank Philanthropic Foundation, the George H. Sands and Estelle M. Sands Foundation, Sodexo, the Wawa Foundation, PSEG Foundation, OceanFirst Foundation, Church and Dwight Employee Fund, and many other corporate and private foundation partners.

Capital Health’s Trenton Neighborhood Initiative seeks to advance neighborhood revitalization and support residents in realizing their vision for a healthier, more equitable Trenton. For more details, visit tnitrenton.org.

Capital Health First in Mercer and Bucks Counties to Offer Minimally Invasive Treatment Option for Stress Urinary Incontinence

Capital Health Center for Incontinence and Pelvic Health is the first and only practice in Mercer County, New Jersey and Bucks County, Pennsylvania to offer Bulkamid, a safe and effective minimally invasive option for treating stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Capital Health has been designated as a Bulkamid Center of Excellence in recognition of their staff’s experience, expertise with the procedure, the quality of positive patient outcomes, and their commitment to improving the patient experience.

bowel dysfunction. To help alleviate SUI symptoms, the team at Capital Health Center for Incontinence and Pelvic Health inject a soft, water-based gel, into the urethral wall to support the urethra’s closing mechanism and provide better control of urination.

“One in three women experience stress urinary incontinence (SUI) as they age, often during or after pregnancy,” said DR. DONALD DEBRAKELEER, director of Urogynecology at Capital Health. “Weakness in the pelvic floor prevents the urethra from closing fully, which can allow urine to leak during everyday activities such as coughing, laughing, or lifting an object. Bulkamid is an exciting minimally invasive approach that has the potential to improve the long-term quality of life for patients who were not helped by previous surgical treatment options.”

Bulkamid is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and manufactured by Axonics, Inc., a medical technology company that develops minimally invasive products to treat bladder and

Administering the gel is a simple process involving just three to four small injections that take about 15 minutes to complete. It is all performed under local anesthesia or light sedation, and as with any minimally invasive procedures, most patients experience a fairly short recovery time with less risk of serious complications than surgery. The long-lasting Bulkamid gel is clinically proven to provide safe and effective symptom relief for at least seven years.

Capital Health Center for Incontinence and Pelvic Health follows national guidelines and state-of-the-art best practices to accurately diagnose and treat conditions and help patients experiencing bladder, bowel, pelvic pain or sexual health issues. With office locations in Lawrenceville, NJ and Newtown, PA, the multidisciplinary team of clinicians—including specialists in urogynecology, gynecology, urology, colorectal health, physical therapy and behavioral health—all work closely to carefully coordinate care and develop personalized treatment plans that are tailored specifically to each patient. To learn more, visit capitalhealth.org/pelvichealth or call 609-303-4474 to schedule an appointment.

Achieve More with a Healthy Pelvic Floor

Thursday, June 5, 2025 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting

Are you experiencing pain in your pelvic area during sex, personal care, or urination/bowel movements? It’s time to advocate for yourself! Join Kathie Olson, nurse practitioner and program director for Capital Health’s Center for Incontinence and Pelvic Health, to learn strategies for living your life without pelvic pain. Kathie will be joined by Rachel Hannum-Grinstead, a licensed pelvic health therapist, who will discuss the benefits of pelvic floor physical therapy. All genders are welcome!

Register for this event at capitalhealth.org/events.

The sky’s the limit at the NJ state planetarium

By Joe Emanski

The planetarium at the New Jersey State Museum is one of the capital city’s most prominent landmarks. Its bright white dome rises like an alien spaceship along Route 29, which skirts the back of the Capitol Complex where the planetarium resides.

Modern planetariums (planetaria?) are movie theaters, first and foremost. Yes, visitors to the New Jersey State Museum also get to enjoy the stars of the night sky projected onto the ceiling of that dome, accompanied by a “sky talk” presented by planetarium staff. But these sky talks are merely a prelude to the main attraction: a high-definition motion picture short that has been specially formatted for planetarium viewing.

The movies have proven to be successful in entertaining visitors at planetariums across the nation. Schoolchildren arrive by the busload during weekday field trips, followed by tourists in their SUVs on weekends. NJSM has a catalog of show licenses stretching back to the early 2000s, many of which are still in regular rotation today.

But the planetarium is also always adding new shows into the mix, such as “Spark: The Universe in Us” and “We Are Guardians,” two 2023 short films that have had their NJSM premieres this year.

The shows both tie into the museum’s upcoming feature exhibition, “Ecosystems at Risk: Threatened and Endangered in New Jersey.” (See story, page 8.)

Jacob Hamer is the curator of the planetarium at the New Jersey State Museum. Hamer, an astrophysicist by training, says his very first experience in astronomy was in a planetarium. “I did a senior year internship in a planetarium, and now I’m hosting a senior in high school doing an internship with me,” Hamer says. “Things have kind of come full circle.”

Hamer says that “We Are Guardians,” a story about deforestation in the Amazon rainforest and the impact it is having in global climate stability, is geared toward younger audiences. “Spark: The Universe in Us,” meanwhile, is perhaps more appropriate for older viewers.

“Spark,” narrated by Diego Luna, looks to connect the air we breathe and the carbon we are made of to exploding stars millions of light years away and billions of years in the past. This interconnectedness of all the elements in the universe and all life on earth is symbolic of the interconnectedness of the fragile ecosys-

tems across the earth.

“I really want the shows here to tell people something new, something that they haven’t heard before,” Hamer says. “I really want the shows to instill a sense of wonder. I don’t want them to just be dry lists of information. It’s important to me that they’re visually stunning.”

Films like these may fill out the majority of the planetarium schedule, but they are not the only attractions. Since joining the NJSM two years ago, Hamer has instituted a free monthly lecture series called “Science Under the Stars,” that features area scientists and researchers.

“I think it’s really special to connect the public directly with scientists,” Hamer says. “I’ve started to have a really dedicated audience of people who come every month.”

In the March lecture, Philippe Yao, a graduate research fellow in astrophysics at Princeton University, discussed black holes and their surrounding environments. April’s lecture, “From Beginning to End: The Story of Our Universe,” scheduled for 4:15 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, is set to feature Dr. Cyril Creque-Sarbinowski from the Center for Computational Astrophysics.

Creque-Sarbinowski will present on what we know about the origins of the universe — and what it might be like in the distant future. To attend, register online at nj.gov/state/museum/eventscalendar.shtml.

The planetarium is also available to be reserved for private viewings on weekend mornings. Those reserving private viewings can invite up to 40 people for a fee, and choose a show from the planetarium’s catalog, presented by planetarium staff. For more information email njsm. reservations@sos.nj.gov.

“It was crazy. (Cards coach Tim) Collins texted me, it was kind of surreal. I remember I was painting my nails and I freaked out. I told my mom “Guess what! I made Meet of Champions.” She said ‘I don’t even know what that is but congratulations.’”

Jusino-Lansing got to his second MOC by automatically qualifying. He finished second in the 55 meter hurdles in both the CJ and CJ III meets with times of 7.66 and 7.58.

His Meet of Champs effort was a disappointing 12th place finish in 7.71 but he made up for it at the Eastern States Indoor Championships with a third-place finish in a PR time of 7.47.

“Meet of Champs wasn’t my best race,” Jusino-Lansing said. “Going to Easterns I was really praying for it. I was like ‘God whatever I do just let me glorify you.” In prelims I ran 7.6, I hit the hurdle and that was close to my PR, so I knew I would run something crazy that day. In the finals, I didn’t hit any hurdles so I knew the time was gonna be great when I crossed the line. The loss in the Meet of Champs just made this one sweeter.”

“I think he ran an average race at Meet of Champs and at Eastern he just lit it up in the finals,” said Collins, who helps Nate Jones with the boys team. “It was fantas-

tic. You knew without even looking at the watch it was a great run.”

Trzaskus and Jusino-Lansing both strive for greatness and have a passionate love for their track & field.

Trzaskus began the sport as a freshman along with classmate Zuzanna Trzasko. The two are close friends who have helped push each other over the years, which was especially important when Lawrence lost its pole vault coach after their sophomore year.

“We depend on each other a lot, just taking videos and watching YouTube videos to correct our form,” she said. “We also go to Vertical (Adventures in Southampton), their coaches were college coaches so they really helped us.

“I think our relationship is really important. We’ve known each other for so long and on a bad day we’re there for each other. Just having someone to talk to that can relate to track is amazing.”

Collins was impressed at how the girls wanted to keep working at it after their coach left.

“They’ve been going to a private coach, but really they’re just coaching each other with what they know and have just been really successful at it,” Collins said.

“At a time when girls pole vaulting sort of tapered off after Covid, these girls have been really good, and Sophie especially.”

SUMMER CAMP 25

Attention students in 6th, 7th, & 8th grade! Join us for either or both of our twoweek Career Exploration Camps at Mercer County Technical Schools. Camp runs daily from 8:30 am to 11:30 am.

Trzaskus was a gymnast prior to high school, which gave her a solid background for pole vaulting.

“I wasn’t scared of going upside down and twisting, so that helped,” she said. “Our freshman year coach that year (Kevin Kamp) said we should try the pole vault and it clicked right away.”

As a sophomore, Trzaskus took third in the Mercer County meet at 8-0 and third in CJ III at 9-0. After losing her coach, she said “I did really well my sophomore year, I just didn’t want to give it up.”

Last year she and Trzasko went 3-4 in the Mercer County Indoor Championships and Trzaskus won the CJ III championship. In the outdoor season, She tied the school record with a jump of 9-0 to finish third in the county meet, but an injury prevented her from competing in sectionals.

During this year’s winter season, practice was limited early due to cold weather and Trzaskus wasn’t expecting march.

“But I cleared 8-6 and I was like ‘Wow, I have a chance to do really well this season,’” she said. “After that I just kept getting better and it was surreal.”

That same 8-6 mark enabled her to win the Colonial Valley Conference gold medal, and she and Trzasko set the school pole vault relay record with a mark of 17-0 in the NJSIAA Group III Relay Meet. Trzaskus also set the school individual mark with a vault of 9-6.

In CJ III she went 9-0 to finish third against a more competitive field than a year ago thanks to the addition of Moorestown to the section.

She equaled that mark in the Meet of Champions and tied for 18th, and is brimming with confidence heading into the outdoor season. Collins felt she would have qualified for states last year had she not been hurt, and is excited for this

spring.

“You never know when someone is gonna go up in a jumping event,” the coach said. “Ten feet seemed high a year ago but the fact she did 9-6 multiple times and is getting in better shape is a good sign. With the warm weather coming I absolutely think she can do well in sectionals and states and go to the Meet of Champs.

“She’s very athletic. I think this confidence will help quite a bit. She jumped 9-6 indoors, she only jumped nine-feet outdoors (which is tied for school record). Obviously you think she’ll match it and exceed it.”

Trzaskus has narrowed her college choices to Montclair State if she does track, and Rutgers if she just wants to focus on academics as a pre-med major with hopes of being a pediatrician.

Her goal for the spring season is to clear 10-feet and qualify for the MOC.

“I just want to keep doing better,” she said. “Keep working.”

Work is the key for Jusino-Lansing as well.

He started hurdling in sixth grade but “I wasn’t that good” as he ran close to 20 seconds in the 110 high hurdles. After a year away due to Covid, he was still struggling at 19 seconds in eighth and ninth grade. He cut it to 15 as a sophomore and then transferred from Brick Memorial to Lawrence.

“That whole summer going into junior year I was working out every day,” he said. “Five days a week I was at the track. If I wasn’t there I was watching videos, studying all the top people. I knew I really wanted to make it.”

Jusino-Lansing admitted it was initially tough making friends as a new arrival at LHS, but track teammate Jermiah Flores “welcomed me in, showed me around,

Anne-Marie (Perrone) Tustin

Anne-Marie (Perrone) Tustin

a tinge of pain to start this year’s indoor season, it disappeared thanks to all his core work.

“My first day back hurdling it was super nice,” he said. “I was able to fully push it. It felt way different, way quicker. But I still didn’t perform as well as I thought I could for indoor, so outdoor I’m ready to show more of what I’ve got.”

Jusino-Lansing is not only looking out for himself, but for sophomore hurdling teammate Alex Nikolov, who went to the Freshman Nationals last year and ran a school indoor record of 7.26 in the indoor 45 hurdles this winter.

“Alex makes no bones about it, he emulates Tristan,” Collins said. “There’s no better guy to try to be like. He soaks it up and does all the great things that Tristan does. Tristin has a real-life impact on our team. He’ll coach other hurdlers. Give them tips.”

He’s basically getting experience for his potential future career.

“I want to be a teacher when I get out of college and I want to help coach,” he said. “Just helping to coach now I can see what I can improve on. Alex is gonna do great, and just to be able to help somebody and try to put them in a better position, it’s really nice.”

Important Notice to Voters from the Office of the Mercer County Clerk

Paula Sollami Covello,

Esq.

introduced me to people.” One of those people was Jones and the hurdler told the coach how excited he was to compete.

“When track started it was easy because everyone around me had the same passion,” Jusino-Lainsing said. “We wanted to see everyone get better. Especially indoor track. It’s less people, it’s so close, it’s like a family.”

Collins wasn’t surprised the junior blended in so easily.

“He was a super nice guy from the start, very positive, very coachable,” he said. “He always wants to try things –‘Put me in the dash, put me in the four by four.’ There’s no ‘I don’t want to do that because it will hurt me in my events.’ He’s team oriented and great to be around.”

And not a bad hurdler, as he proved in the winter of his junior year. JusinoLansing won the 55 hurdles gold medal in indoor track (7.81), took third in the Group III championships and got to the MOC as a wild card, where he finished 12th. He took sixth at Easterns with a season-best time of 7.69.

Last spring he was fi fth in counties, third in sectionals with an outdoor PR time of 14.7, and seventh in states. But aside from Jones and Justino-Lansing, no one knew the issues he was dealing with.

“I had back spasms that started around April,” he said. “It was really painful. Every time I hurdled it hurt. For the most part I was running with pain.”

He took a month off after the season and began physical therapy. After feeling

As for his own position, Jusino-Lansing wants to break 14 seconds in the 110 hurdles and get under 55 in the 400 hurdles. He hopes to make Meet of Champions in the 110, and will then go on to run in college as he has interest from Rowan, Rutgers and Mississippi College.

“I have high expectations,” he said. “My back is fully healed and I’m ready to show what I could have done last year.”

Another Cardinal who showed what she could after a tough cross country season was sophomore Izzy Meth.

Meth had an outstanding freshman year in cross country, then swam for the Cardinals but slumped last fall. Opting for indoor track over the pool this year, she came back with a vengeance this winter in the 3200 by taking fourth in the CVC meet, sixth in sectionals and ninth in states. She qualified for the Meet of Champs and smashed her PR with a school-record run of 11:10.

“In cross country she had an injury and she was sick at one point, she never recaptured the magic of her freshman year,” Collins said. “She wanted to stop swimming because she felt she lost a step. The whole idea of indoor was to set her up and get a good base for spring.

“Her workouts started to get better, she started to get a feel for it. In states she ran great and went from 11:26 to 11:15. Then she goes to Meet of Champions and goes down five more seconds. We’re gonna come back and have a fun, successful spring track season with her.”

Under NJ Law, Voters who have not voted by mail in 4 years will be removed from the automatic ballot mailing list.

This will not affect voter registration status and you can still vote early or at the polls.

If you would like to vote by mail, please submit a new application by visiting mercercounty.org/government/county-clerk

For assistance, please contact our office at (609) 989-6494 or email mercervotes@mercercounty.org

Thanks for Voting! Paid for by the State of NJ

LHS pole vaulter Sophie Trzaskus. (Photo by Tim Collins)

Below is a selection of events taking place this month in our area. For even more events, go online to our website, communitynews. org/events.

Details below were believed to be accurate at time of publication. We always recommend that you confirm all necessary details when planning to attend an event.

Wednesday april 2

Screening: Conclave, Mercer County Library. 2 to 4 p.m. Film follows one of the world’s most secretive and ancient events—selecting the new Pope. Cardinal Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) is tasked with running this covert process after the unexpected death of the beloved Pope. Once the Catholic Church’s most powerful leaders have gathered from around the world and are locked together in the Vatican halls, Lawrence uncovers a trail of deep secrets left in the dead Pope’s wake, secrets which could shake the foundations of the Church. Register. mcl.org. Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville.

Thursday, april 3

Play with Clay, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6:30 p.m. Come create with clay. Make a sculpture of your choice out of air-dry clay with the guidance of a librarian. You can bring it back another week to paint once it has dried. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Friday, april 4

Movers and Shakers, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 10 a.m. This program is all about music and movement. Join Miss Lauren as we play our favorite storytime songs and your toddlers and preschoolers can sing, dance and move to the music. Shaky eggs, bells, bubbles and more. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Sensory Playtime, Mercer County Library: Law-

HAPPENING

rence Headquarters Branch. 3 p.m. Encourage exploration, curiosity, and creativity in your little one through sensory play. Kids will use all of their senses as they rotate through hands-on stations. Clean up will begin at 4pm. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

First Friday Farm Fun, Cherry Grove Farm. 2 p.m. Spring hayride. Eggs to decorate, seeds for sale and starter plants to begin a garden. cherrygrovefarm. com. 3200 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrence.

saTurday, april 5

One-Act PlayFest, Open Door Arts Center. 7 p.m. Staged reading of original one-act plays by Lawrenceville resident George Point and four other New Jersey playwrights. Admission is free, donations are welcome. ODAC is a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to entertain, enrich, and educate by presenting visual and performing arts to the community. opendoorartscenter.org. People Care Center, 120 Finderne Avenue, Bridgewater.

sunday, april 6

Mozzarella from Scratch, Cherry Grove Farm. 2 p.m. cherrygrovefarm.com. 3200 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrence.

People & Stories/Gente y Cuentos April “Try It”, Morven Museum & Garden. 2 p.m. All are welcome. Space limited, register at peopleandstories.org. 55 Stockton St., Princeton.

Monday, april 7

Round Singing, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 4:15 p.m. Nothing feeds the soul like singing in a community. We will lead patrons of all ages and abilities - from babies to retirees - in singing simple rounds together in harmony. Scarves and shakers will be provided for those too young to sing. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Thursday, april 8

Author: Nghi Vo, Princeton Public Library. 7 to 8:30 p.m. Emma Sarconi interviews Nghi Vo at this

book launch event for “Don’t Sleep with the Dead,” a novella about Nick Carraway and his life following the tragic ending of “The Great Gatsby.” princetonlibrary. org. 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton.

Wednesday, april 9

Sci-Fi Shorts Book Club: All Summer in a Day by Ray Bradbury, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 2 p.m. Come join Librarian Andrew for a discussion on our monthly science fiction short story. Pick up a copy at the Lawrence Branch Circulation Desk beforehand and then join us to share your thoughts in this welcoming environment. All levels of science fiction experience are welcome. This month’s short story is All Summer in a Day by Ray Bradbury. Advanced registration is appreciated. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

mTiny Robot Coding Basics, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6:30 p.m. Learn basic coding and logic skills as you direct a cute, little robot through different challenges. Create its world using special, large puzzle pieces. Then, use a controller and command cards to direct its path. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Thursday, april 10

Fiction Writers’ Workshop: Sharing Your Words, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 10 a.m. Join the published author, Judy Salcewicz, who will share her stories and writing experiences, and discuss the logistics of writing and submitting work for publication. Participants will have the opportunity to work on their manuscripts and brainstorm ideas for their submissions. Advanced registration is appreciated. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Play with Clay, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6:30 p.m. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Poetry Circle: Poetry Month Reading, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6:30 p.m. Celebrate National Poetry Month with poets from the Mercer County Library Poetry Circle and U.S. 1 Worksheets. Enjoy an evening of captivating poetry readings that will inspire and delight. Leading up to the event, we encourage you to enter the “Who is Your Favorite Poet of All Time?” raffle by filling out an entry sheet. The drawing to announce the winner of a $25 Barnes and Noble gift card will take place at the end of the evening. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in a night of literary enchantment. Advanced registration is appreciated. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Friday, april 11

Movers and Shakers, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 10 a.m. Join Miss Lauren as we play our favorite storytime songs and your toddlers and preschoolers can sing, dance and move to the music. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Sensory Playtime, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 3 p.m. Clean up will begin at 4pm. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

saTurday, april 12

Free Community Egg Hunt, The Terraces at Lawrence. 11 a.m. Lawrenceville Main Street is partnering with The Terraces. Egg hunt, and photos with the Easter Bunny face painting, games. One Bishops’ Dr, Lawrence.

Mozzarella from Scratch, Cherry Grove Farm. 2 p.m. Workshop. Register at cherrygrovefarm.com. 3200 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrence.

ESL Conversation Circle with Paula, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 10 a.m. This is a fun and non-judgmental conversation circle for anyone who wants to practice their English language skills. We will talk about our lives, our interests and anything else we feel like saying in this safe and relaxed group. No materials are required. Librarian Paula will facilitate this non-structured class. Advanced registration is appreciated. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Theatrical Kung Fu Demo, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 10:30 a.m. This playful theatrical production tells the legendary origin story of Kung Fu. Witness ancient “five animal” martial arts forms demonstrated by experienced practitioners from the Bau Shu Fang Lian School of Kung Fu. Wind down from the comedic play through a meditation practice for all ages. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Information Table: LWV of Lawrence Township, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 1:30 p.m. As important election dates approach, the League of Women Voters of Lawrence Township will be available at Lawrence HQ Branch to assist with voter registration and answer any electionrelated questions every second Saturday of the month from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

sunday, april 13

Paper Circuits, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 2 p.m. Use paper, copper tape, LEDs and coin cell batteries to create a cool project that lights up. This month we will create a blooming cherry tree with some blossoms that light up. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Westminster Concert Bell Choir: At Water’s Edge, Gill Chapel. 4 p.m. Gillian Erlenborn, conductor. $20 adults, $15 students/seniors. rider.edu. 2083 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrence.

Monday, april 14

Morning Book Club: In The Unlikely Event by Judy Blume, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 10 a.m. In her new adult novel, the author of Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret takes us back to the 1950s in a town where she grew up. The story unfolds after a real-life tragedy, vividly portraying three generations of families and friends profoundly affected one winter. At the center are 15-year-old Miri Ammerman and her spirited single mother, Rusty, set against the backdrop of an extraordinary event. Librarian Neil will lead the discussion. Advanced registration is appreciated. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence. Round Singing, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 4:15 p.m. Nothing feeds the soul like singing in a community. We will lead patrons of all ages and abilities — from babies to retirees - in singing simple rounds together in harmony. Scarves and shakers will be provided for those too young to sing. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Citizen Science: DIY dog toy/treats, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6:30 p.m. Attention dog lovers. Create a toy and treat for your dog and become a citizen scientist by registering

your dog with the Dog Aging project. For kids of all ages, with a caregiver. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Tuesday, april 15

Guitar Basics, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6 p.m. We will learn some basic chords, practice strum patterns, and work towards playing some simple songs. Players of all experience levels are welcome in this slow-paced, no judgement environment. It is highly recommended that participants bring their own instruments, if possible. However, a small number of instruments will be available. Librarian Neil will lead the event. Registration is required and limited to 12 participants. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Slime Time: Spring Flowers, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6:30 p.m. Get ready for some hands-on fun. Today you can make spring flower slime. Dress for a mess. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Wednesday, april 16

Bluey Character Meet and Greet, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 10 a.m. Bluey is visiting our Lawrence Branch. Come pose for a photo with Bluey and then stay for themed crafts and activities. Snacks will be served. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Poetry Writing Workshop, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 2:30 p.m. Join the Poetry Circle Poets, a monthly group of writers who share and critique their own poems in a supportive environment. Advanced registration is appreciated. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Film Screening: Nosferatu (2024), Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 5:30 p.m. Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu is a gothic tale of obsession between a haunted young woman and the terrifying vampire infatuated with her, causing untold horror in its wake. Advanced registration is appreciated. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Thursday, april 17

Baby Time, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 10 a.m. Join Miss Lauren for books, bells and bubbles. Introduce your baby to storytime - stories, songs and rhymes. Perfect for infants and young toddlers. Attendees are encouraged to stay after for Baby Playtime with free play and socialization. Age appropriate books and toys will be provided. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Aging with Dignity—Advance Care Planning, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6 p.m. Seventy percent of Americans nearing the end of their lives are unable to make decisions about their own healthcare. Join certified presenter Paul Knight for a one-hour session on the importance of Advance Care Planning. Learn how to discuss and document your end-of-life healthcare preferences. Attendees will receive a complimentary copy of “Five Wishes,” a helpful guide for aging with dignity. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Play with Clay, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6:30 p.m. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Friday april 18

In the Heights, Bristol Riverside Theater. 8 p.m. Lin Manuel Miranda’s musical tells the story of a vibrant community in New York’s Washington Heights neighborhood – a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open, and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. brtstage.org. 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania.

saTurday, april 19

Foraging & Feasting, Cherry Grove Farm. 11 a.m.

Identify and taste edible weeds and learn how to make herbal infusions. Register at cherrygrovefarm.com. 3200 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrence.

Fun with Mah Jongg, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 10 a.m. Whether you’re seeking mental stimulation or social interaction, American Mah Jongg is the perfect choice for you. Librarian Paula will lead the session. Registration is required and limited to 12 participants. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Science Saturday with Princeton University, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 11 a.m. a fun new science program presented by Science Outreach at Princeton University. Students will engage in different hands-on, engaging science activities each month. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Slime Time: Spring Flowers, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 2 p.m. Get ready for some hands-on fun. Today you can make spring flower slime. Dress for a mess. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Monday, april 21

Round Singing, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 4:15 p.m. Nothing feeds the soul like singing in a community. We will lead patrons of all ages and abilities - from babies to retirees - in singing simple rounds together in harmony. Scarves and shakers will be provided for those too young to sing. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Clay Pot Fairy Houses, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6:30 p.m. Transform a clay pot into a fairy house. We will be using paint so dress for a mess. For children ages 3 years old and up, with a caregiver. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Tuesday, april 22

Lego Challenge, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6:30 p.m. Calling all LEGO fans. Join us for a monthly LEGO challenge. You can choose to try the challenge or build your own masterpiece. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

2025 TrashedArt Contest Reception, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6:30 p.m. The Mercer County Library System is hosting the 16th Annual TrashedArt Contest. The contest celebrates Earth Day by encouraging patrons to turn ordinary trash into extraordinary art. Entries will be judged by MCLS staff and local professional artists. Library patrons will also have a chance to vote for People’s Choice award winners at each of the branches and on the MCLS website. Each branch will announce their “People’s Choice” award winners at the TrashedArt Reception as well. The Reception is open to the public, and light refreshments will be served. Registration is required and limited to 12 participants. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Wednesday, april 23

Photo Paper Painting, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6:30 p.m. Use watercolor paints and drops of rubbing alcohol to make unique, colorful paintings on glossy photo paper. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Blippi: Join the Band Tour!, Patriots Theater at the War Memorial. 6 p.m. Blippi is joined onstage by Meekah, their singing and dancing buddies, and live musicians to explore what makes music, including sounds, rhythms, and instruments, through favorite Blippi hits. $29 to $69. cureinsurancearena.com. 1 Memorial Drive, Trenton.

Thursday, april 24

Baby Time, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 10 a.m. Join Miss Lauren for books, bells and bubbles. Introduce your baby to storytime - stories, songs and rhymes. Perfect for infants and young toddlers. Attendees are encouraged to stay after for Baby Playtime with free play and socializa-

tion. Age appropriate books and toys will be provided. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Fun with Mah Jongg, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6 p.m. Whether you’re seeking mental stimulation or social interaction, American Mah Jongg is the perfect choice for you. Experience the joy of Mah Jongg in a relaxed and friendly setting. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious beginner, this session promises engaging gameplay and plenty of fun. Librarian Sharon will lead the session. Registration is required and limited to 12 participants. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence. Play with Clay, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6:30 p.m. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Friday, april 25

Playdough Playdate, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 10 a.m. Bring your child and their imagination for a fun, hands-on playdough program. Use those fine motor skills to create something amazing while socializing with friends. The library will provide the playdough plus tools, mats and other fun things to play with. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Sensory Playtime, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 3 p.m. Clean up will begin at 4 p.m. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Guitar Basics, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 3 p.m. Are you interested in learning how to play a guitar? Maybe you already play, but would like a chance to share your musical interests with others? We will learn some basic chords, practice strum patterns, and work towards playing some simple songs. Players of all experience levels are welcome in this slow-paced, no judgement environment. It is highly recommended that participants bring their own instruments, if possible. However, a small number of instruments will be available. Librarian Neil will lead the event. Registration is required and limited to 12 participants. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

saTurday, april 26

2025 Spring Arts Festival, Weeden Park. Noon. Street fair-style event with over 150 artists, crafters and vendors plus live music. lawrencevillemainstreet. com. 2611 Main St, Lawrence.

sunday, april 27

Ricotta Making & Meal, Cherry Grove Farm. 11 a.m. Workshop. Register at cherrygrovefarm.com. 3200 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrence.

Edward H. Stokes & Photography of the Mid19th Century, William Trent House. 2 p.m. This illustrated lecture by Gary Saretzky explores both the early history of photography in Trenton and the life of Edward H. Stokes, who became one of the wealthiest men in Trenton. The last owners of the Trent House, then known as Woodlawn, were the Stokes family. Edward Harris Stokes was born in 1824. He became an accomplished artist, photographer and daguerreotypist in the 1850s. Free. williamtrenthouse.org. 15 Market Street, Trenton.

Monday, april 28

Watercolor Painting, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6:30 p.m. Bring your imagination and create a beautiful work of art. You can follow the directions to make your painting or you can free paint whatever you want. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Tuesday, april 29

True Crime Book Club: The Doomsday Mother by John Glatt, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 3 p.m. The Doomsday Mother: Lori Vallow, Chad Daybell, and the end of an American Family shares the story of Lori Vallow, a woman whose romantic relationship with religious zealot, Chad Daybell, led her to murder her two children and be involved in the murders of a string of others. Advanced registration is appreciated. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence. Documentary Series: A LEGO Brickumentary (2014), Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 5:30 p.m. Exploring how LEGO bricks went from kids’ toys to a global phenomenon beloved by collectors, artists, innovators and builders of all ages. 81 mins. Rated PG. Advanced registration is appreciated. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence. Kawaii Craft Club: Paper Squishies, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6:30 p.m. fun program where you can create the cutest Kawaii crafts. Kawaii is the culture of cuteness in Japan. This month we are making paper squishies. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

Wednesday, april 30

Learn to crochet, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. 6:30 p.m. Learn the very basics of crochet - how to make a slip-knot, a chain stich and how to make rows. Yarn and crochet hooks will be provided for use in the library, but you may also bring your own. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence.

workers here and across America. To share your thanks or to support our Emergency Response Fund, visit rwjbh.org/heroes

And please, for them, stay home and safe.

What are four ways to prevent golf injuries

Ask The Doctor

stationary, twisting their upper body and following through forcefully.

See our ads in SIX09 section pgs 5 and 7

For golfers this spring, sand traps aren’t the only hazards to avoid. “Low back pain is common, especially in golfers over 50,” says Marc J. Levine, MD, Chief of Orthopedic Surgery and Director of Spine Surgery at Robert Wood Johnson University (RWJUH) Hamilton, a member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group and a clinical assistant professor at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School.

Most low-back injuries in golfers, Dr. Levine says, stem from stress on the spine associated with swinging a golf club. “Often, pain remains localized to the lower back, but occasionally it can become sciatic and radiate down one or both legs,” he says.

He offers these 4 tips for warding off back injuries on the links:

• Don’t emulate the pros. Many professional golfers today use the “modern golf swing,” keeping their hips

While it may make a golf ball travel farther, “The thoracic and lumbar spine can’t absorb that kind of force regularly, especially if you’re over age 50,” Dr. Levine says. A safer approach is to use a swing that’s comfortable for you and to have realistic expectations about how far you can drive a golf ball.

• Keep your swing consistent. “Your body likes predictability,” Dr. Levine says. “Every time you jerk or move unexpectedly, it creates more strain on your back.” Dr. Levine recommends meeting with a golf pro at least once a year to evaluate your swing. Ask for tips to improve your mechanics and ergonomics.

• Use the right equipment. “Choose shoes that will help you stabilize your feet, so you don’t lose traction,” Dr. Levine says. If you’re thinking about new clubs, look for ones with less rigidity in the shaft. “That will absorb some of the energy when you take a backswing and may create less force on your spine,” Dr. Levine says. If you feel a twinge of back pain after a round of golf, Dr. Levine recommends rest, ice and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines (aspirin, ibuprofen) as a first line of treatment.

See a doctor if pain continues for four to six weeks. “If you experience any numbness, tingling or weakness, get evaluated by an orthopedic surgeon,” Dr. Levine says. Learn more at rwjbh.org/ortho

RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group, and Christopher Chum, MD, Gastroenterology, who will share advanced gastrointestinal (GI) care and the latest specialized techniques and equipment being used to diagnose and treat complex GI conditions.

MONDAY,

APRIL 14

The Power of Food: Nutrition Strategies for Diabetes (Community Health). 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. and Tuesday, April 22; 6 -7 p.m. Join Lori Hager, MS, RD, for our monthly series. 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. These two sessions will occur the 2nd Monday (daytime) and 4th Tuesday (evening) each month.

TUESDAY, APRIL 15

• Stay physically fit. A regular exercise routine can strengthen core muscles, including those in your abdomen and back. “Also, do stretching exercises for at least five to 10 minutes before you start each round of golf,” Dr. Levine says.

Programs at RWJUH Hamilton this month

Misconceptions vs. Life-Saving Realities of Organ Donation (Community Health). 1-2 p.m. Did you know one organ donor can save eight lives and help 75 more by donating tissue and corneas? Adults 18 and older can register to be organ and tissue donors, regardless of medical history or age. Join the NJ Sharing Network and Tim Ryan, MSN, RN, CEN, Nursing Professional Development Practitioner, CPDIR, RWJUH Hamilton, for this informative talk.

THURSDAY, APRIL

29

Let’s Talk About Those Golden Years (Better Health). 10-11 a.m. Reaching our “golden years” brings a myriad of life changes. Janet Haag, executive director, NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Mercer, will lead this discussion on aging. This program will explore the landscape of mental well-being in later life.

The following programs are sponsored by RWJUH Hamilton Community Health, open to all and all ages, and 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 Rd., Hamilton, NJ 08619--unless otherwise noted. View the calendar of programs available online at rwjbh.org/hamiltonprograms, or for more information or to register, call 609-584-5900. Registration is required to attend programs.

THURSDAY, APRIL 10

Lunch & Learn: Treating Complex Gastrointestinal Conditions with Advanced Gastroenterology. Noon-1:30 p.m. Join a discussion presented by Imran Fayyaz, MD, Gastroenterology, President of Medical Staff Leadership, RWJUH Hamilton, and member of

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30

Hearing and Balance Screenings (Community Health). 9 a.m. -Noon. Join us for 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. For more information or to reserve your required appointment, call 609-245-7390. Note: This program will take place at the RWJUH Hamilton Balance & Hearing Center, 2 Hamilton Health Pl, Hamilton Township, NJ.

Dr. Marc S. Levine

VOTE BY MAIL NOTICE TO PERSONS WANTING MAIL-IN BALLOTS

If you are a qualified and registered voter of New Jersey who wants to vote by mail in the Primary Election to be held on June 10, 2025, the following applies:

• You must be registered as a Democrat or Republican by no later than June 3, 2025 to be able to receive a mail-in ballot.

• You must complete the application form below and send it to the county clerk where you reside or write or apply in person to the county clerk where you reside to request a mail-in ballot.

• The name, address, and signature of any person who has assisted you to complete the mail-in ballot application must be provided on the application, and you must sign and date the application.

• No person may serve as an authorized messenger

or bearer for more than three qualified voters in an election but a person may serve as such for up to five qualified voters in an election if those voters are immediate family members residing in the same household as the messenger or bearer.

• No person who is a candidate in the election for which the voter requests a mail-in ballot may provide any assistance in the completion of the ballot or serve as an authorized messenger or bearer.

• A person who applies for a mail-in ballot must submit his or her application so that it is received at least seven days before the election, but such person may request an application in person from the county clerk up to 3 p.m. of the day before the election.

• Voters who want to vote by mail in all future

elections will, after their initial request and without further action on their part, be provided with a mail-in ballot until the voter requests otherwise in writing.

• Application forms may be obtained by applying to the undersigned either in writing or by telephone. Or the application form provided below may be completed and forwarded to the undersigned.

• If you are currently signed up to receive mail-in ballots, but wish to now vote at the polls, either on Election Day or before, in accordance with NJ’s new “Early Voting” law, you must first opt out of vote by mail by notifying the county clerk in writing at the address below. You may find a form for removal from the permanent list on the Mercer County Clerk’s website at https://www.mercercounty.org/ government/county-clerk/elections.

Dated: April 8, 2025, Paula Sollami Covello, Mercer County Clerk, 209 S. Broad St., Election Dept., P.O. Box 8068, Trenton, NJ 08650, 609-989-6495

Building a brighter future: Thank you, Lawrence Township

Dr. Klim’s Corner

Robyn A. Klim, Ed.D., LCSW

Thank You, Lawrence Township!

This column marks one year of Dr. Klim’s Korner in the Lawrence Gazette— our monthly update straight from the source, your superintendent. We are proud to provide this ongoing connection with our community, keeping you informed and engaged in the work happening within Lawrence Township Public Schools.

On behalf of Lawrence Township Public Schools, I want to express my deepest gratitude to our community for supporting our referendum. Your vote of confidence in our schools is an investment in our students, our educators, and the future of Lawrence Township. The referendum was approved by an overwhelming majority, a testament to the strong belief in the importance of our schools.

This referendum was about more than just buildings and renovations—it was about creating learning environments that align with best practices, foster flexibility and innovation, and ensure the safety and well-being of every student. Thanks to your support, we can now move forward with critical improvements that will enhance our schools and strengthen our district for generations to come.

We recognize that this was a communitywide effort, and we are grateful to everyone who took the time to learn about the referendum, ask thoughtful questions, and ultimately cast their vote. We especially thank those who spoke out in support of the facts and worked tirelessly to spread the truth when there was so much misinformation being broadcast on social media platforms. Your dedication and advocacy helped ensure that accurate information reached our community, allowing voters to make informed decisions.

As we embark on the next phase of this journey, we promise to keep you informed every step of the way. Transparency and accountability will guide us as we bring these projects to life, ensuring that every dollar is spent wisely to maximize the benefits for our students and staff. We will continue to update the Referendum tab of our district website, www.ltps.org/referendum, with updates of our progress. We expect to break ground on the first of these projects next spring. Once again, thank you for believing in our schools and for standing with us in our mission to provide an exceptional education for all. Together, we are building a brighter future for Lawrence Township Public Schools. Stay tuned, Lawrence!

Dr. Robyn Klim is the superintendent of the Lawrence Township Public Schools.

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Communications Coaching & Critique Looking for expert communications support? I offer proofreading, editing, presentation preparation, and public speaking practice to elevate your work. Let me help you craft clear, compelling content and deliver confident presentations. Contact me @your. chief.editor@outlook.com for professional assistance!

MUSIC SERVICES

ROCK N ROLL BAND, 5 PIECE, AVAILABLE

AT YOUR SERVICE

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

F,D, Mason Contractor, Over 30 years of experience. Brick, Block, Stone, Concrete. No job too large or small. Fully Insured and Licensed. Free Estimates 908-385-5701 Lic#13VH05475900.

Are you single? Try us first! We are an enjoyable alternative to online dating. Sweet Beginnings Matchmaker, 215-539-2894, www.sweetbeginnings.info.

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.

Guitar, Ukulele and Drum lessons for all. Call Jane 609 510-1400. $25.00 per lesson.

Cleaning Services My name is Karolina, I’m a cleaning lady. If you are looking for somebody to clean your house, office - I’m here! I offer one-time, monthly, biweekly, weekly who can help make your house shiny clean, give me a chance and you will be happy -Dm me with all your questions 640-466-1378.

Wanted: Baseball, football, basketball, hockey. Cards, autographs, photos, memorabilia. Highest cash prices paid! Licensed corporation, will travel. 4theloveofcards, 908-596-0976. allstar115@verizon.net.

Cash paid for World War II Military Items. Helmets, swords, medals, etc. Call: 609658-2996, 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 .

609-581-2207