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Feeding people well: Kenny’s Meals set to come to Ewing

By Lisa Wolff

Kenny Garcia didn’t set out to build a multi-location business. He set out to feed people well. In 2020, that meant cooking for himself and friends. Soon, it meant making deliveries from a rented kitchen and a van.

Today, Kenny’s Meals has grown to five locations across Central New Jersey and south-

eastern Pennsylvania, with another on the way. The newest store, on U.S. 130 in Bordentown, opened on March 15.

Garcia’s focus on healthy food is deeply personal. In his mid-20s, he was diagnosed with kidney failure and spent seven years on dialysis before receiving a transplant from his cousin, Doris. Food stopped being a preference and became a neces-

sity. He learned to cook to take care of himself and then began sharing those meals with others.

What started as survival became something more: a way to care for the people around him.

“This experience sparked my journey into understanding the importance of healthy eating habits and the benefits

See KENNY’S, Page 3

Towns welcome a wave of new shops and restaurants

By Bill Sanservino

A wave of new restaurants, retail and service businesses is reshaping the Mercer County area, driven by shopping center redevelopment along Route 1 and steady openings in towns across the area.

Large centers like Mercer on One in Lawrence and MarketFair in West Windsor are filling vacancies with a mix of national and independent tenants. Overall, growth is being led by major commercial centers, while traditional downtowns evolve more gradually.

Below are some of the recent additions to the area.

Ewing Eats: Sandwich & Grill is set to open at Serenity Plaza in Ewing on Parkway Avenue. The restaurant is taking over the former SNG Burgers space. The menu is expected to include hot and cold sandwiches, grill items, loaded fries and salads.

Kenny’s Meals (see story at left) is preparing to open a new location in Ewing Town Center on Parkway Avenue.

Meanwhile, plans call for a 1with a drive-thru at Suburban

Square shopping center in Ewing. Township planning documents describe a proposed 2,313-squarefoot store at the site. The site is currently under construction.

APRON is preparing to open at two Mercer County golf courses: Mountain View Golf Course in Ewing Township and Princeton Country Club in West Windsor.

The Carannante family — owners of Brothers Pizza and BLEND in Hamilton — is launching a new concept that will offer both daily dining and full-service event catering, serving golfers on the course as well as the wider community. An opening date has not been announced.

The Lady and the Shallot has opened a new brick-and-mortar restaurant in Campus Town at The College of New Jersey. The vegan concept, founded by Kate Wnek and Francesca Avitto, previously operated for several years as a popular stand at the Trenton Farmers Market.

The new sit-down location offers the business’s established plant-based menu along with new dishes, expanding on a following built during its time at the market.

See BUSINESS, Page 6

Ewing resident Kenny garcia stands inside his new shop in Bordentown. Kenny’s Meals continues to expand and is set to open soon in the Ewing Town Center.

RWJUH Hamilton April Healthy Living / Community Education Programs

CRYSTAL BOWL SOUND IMMERSION

Tuesday, Apr. 7; 6:00 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.

Unwind with the soothing vibrations of crystal bowls. Bring a yoga mat, blankets, low beach chair, or anything else you need to make yourself comfortable. Fee $15

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

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

Presented by our oncology nurse navigator and certified oncology social worker at The Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton, this support group welcomes those who have received a breast cancer diagnosis in all phases of their journey, and offers 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.

RECYCLING IN NEW JERSEY, FACT OR FICTION?

Wednesday, Apr. 8; 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Most recyclable items placed at the curb are processed, but not all are recycled. Come learn the facts from a New Jersey recycling expert and experience a virtual tour of a recycling facility.

UNDERSTANDING THE NJ CHILDREN’S SYSTEM OF CARE AND CMO SERVICES

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

This workshop is designed to help parents and caregivers understand New Jersey’s Children’s System of Care (CSOC), a statewide system that coordinates services for children and youth with emotional, behavioral, mental health, and developmental

needs. Participants will learn how CSOC works, who is eligible, and how families can access supports. The session will also explain the role of Care Management Organizations, which partner with families to assess needs, develop individualized service plans, and connect children to appropriate community-based services.

AM I AT RISK? TYPE 2 DIABETES SCREENING

Thursday, Apr. 9; 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Nearly 98 million American adults have prediabetes, and almost 90% are unaware of their condition. Come in for a Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment. Those who score moderate risk or higher will receive a complimentary A1C screening.

STANFORD CHRONIC DISEASE SELF -MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

Apr. 13, 20, 27

May. 4, 11, 18 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

This is a cost-effective, evidencebased health promotion program for people with chronic illness. This 6 session workshop is for people with any ongoing health condition such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease and similar conditions. Participants will learn practical skills to help manage their health, including problem solving, goal setting, and relaxation techniques. The interactive curriculum addresses topics such as pain and fatigue management, coping with emotions, effective communication, medication management, physical activity, nutrition and more. Participants are expected to attend all 6 classes.

NUTRITION STRATEGIES FOR DIABETES

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

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

Join Lori Hager, MS, RD, for our monthly series to learn how to manage and control your diabetes through dietary choices. Learn the basics of diabetes and how nutrition affects blood sugar levels. Gain practical tips for meal planning and preparation to control your diabetes.

SPRING MINI MEDICAL SCHOOL

Tuesday, Apr. 14, 21, 28 & May 5, 12, 19; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Join us for this six-week informative series on a variety of medical topics. Enhance your knowledge through presentations from experts across different specialties and areas of study. All you need to bring is a willingness to learn and have fun. STUDENTS MUST ATTEND ALL 6 SESSIONS TO RECEIVE A CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION

DINNER WITH A DOCTOR: THE NARROW PATH

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

Join Honesto M. Poblete, MD, a member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group, Chair of the Department of Surgery and Section Chief of the Division of Vascular Surgery, RWJUH Hamilton, for an informative talk on the evaluation and treatment of carotid disease. Learn when medical management or procedural intervention may be recommended. This session offers valuable insight into protecting brain health and preventing stroke. Dinner will be provided.

DEVELOPING YOUR INTUITION

Thursday, Apr. 16; 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Intuition is a part of every human being’s journey and yet how comfortable are we with this bridge to knowing, feeling and sensing what is not right in front of us?

We will look at some blocks to our intuition and how we can more freely connect with our sixth sense. We will discuss and experience some “tools” to create an opening for us to unlock this powerful aspect of our human/spiritual selves.

Fee $15

PREDIABETES CONNECT GROUP

Tuesday, Apr. 21; 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Diagnosed with prediabetes? This group is for you to connect with others affected. Share and explore ways to improve lifestyle changes.

UNDERSTANDING HAND MUDRAS

Tuesday, Apr. 21; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Ever wonder why some people hold their hands a certain way during meditation?

Mudras are energetic hand gestures that have been practiced for centuries. Used to channel the flow of prana (life force), their main purpose is to redirect energy within the body to help restore internal balance and enhance different states of consciousness. Fee: $15

CREATIVE ARTS: JUNK JOURNALING

Monday, Apr. 27; 2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

activity that allows individuals to express themselves through creativity. This unique way of journaling involves repurposing old items and transforming them into beautiful and personal works of art. Grab some “junk” and get crafty while working on your mental health and wellness.

STROKE SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday, Apr. 28; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Join the Stroke Support Group at RWJUH Hamilton, a place for survivors and caregivers to build a community. The group will share personal experiences, feelings, recovery strategies, and firsthand information on managing life after stroke. Meetings will be facilitated by two outpatient rehabilitation therapists: Ashley Sarrol Speech- Language Pathologist, and Allyson Panikowski-Berry Occupational Therapist. Survivors and care partners at any stage of recovery are encouraged to attend.

MONTHLY

HEARING/BALANCE SCREENINGS

Wednesday, Apr. 29; 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. FREE screenings on the last Wednesday of every month! These 15-minute appointments are designed to help assess your hearing health or your balance health/fall risk. To reserve a required appointment time or to learn more, call 609-245-7390, the RWJ Balance & Hearing Center at RWJUH Hamilton, located at, 2 Hamilton Health Pl., Hamilton, NJ.

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

A SOCIAL HOUR ESPECIALLY FOR SENIORS

Wednesday, Apr. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

STEPPING UP YOUR NUTRITION

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

This is an interactive workshop for older adults who are concerned about falls and interested in improving their nutrition and strength. This 2.5hour workshop will help participants understand the connection and importance of balanced nutrition and falls prevention.

ENGAGE WITH SHAKESPEARE’S ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA

Wednesday, Apr. 1 and 29; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Reading Shakespeare exercises the brain. Discussing Shakespeare with life experience is fun. We read to discuss our own lives, how they relate to the subjects and themes. Must attend both sessions.

TAI CHI CLASSES

Thursday, Apr. 2 & 30; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

GENTLE JAZZ CLASS

Wednesday, Apr. 8 & 22; 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

LUNCH & LEARN: EXPLORING THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN DO AND MD PHYSICIANS WITH BIANCA ESTROPIA, DO

Thursday, Apr. 9; 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Bianca Estropia, DO, Geriatric and Family Medicine, James and Sharon Maida Geriatrics Institute at RWJBarnabas Health Primary Care for an informative program on the differences between DO and MD physicians. Learn about the core tenets of osteopathic medicine and experience a demonstration of osteopathic manipulative treatment, a hands-on approach used by DO physicians to diagnose, treat and prevent illness or injury.

INTRODUCTION TO GENEALOGY

Friday, Apr. 10; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Have you ever wondered who your ancestors were? Are you interested in discovering your roots? If you enjoy being an amateur sleuth, this class will assist you in starting your research into your family

history. Genealogy is an exciting hobby that requires persistence and an ability to think outside the box. If you are interested in delving into your family history, this class will enable you to learn some useful tips for conducting research.

GAME TIME!

Friday, Apr. 10 and 24; 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

AGELESS GRACE: SEATED EXERCISE FOR THE BRAIN & BODY

Monday, Apr. 13 and 27; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

YOGA CLASSES

Tuesday, Apr. 14 and 28, 2026; 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. OR 2:45 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

MEDITATION CLASSES

Tuesday, Apr. 14 and 28, 2026; 11:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

OR 2:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

CHAIR YOGA

Tuesday, Apr. 14 and 28, 2026; 12:00 p.m. - 12:45 p.m.

OR 1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m.

Junk journaling is a stress reducing 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

HEALTH MEMBER FOR FREE SCAN THIS QR CODE

A BETTER HEALTH PROGRAM: GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE TILE PAINTING AND WELLNESS WALK

Wednesday, Apr. 22; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

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

Alcohol inks are known for their bold, fluid colors and tiles provide the perfect canvas, allowing the inks to flow freely and interact in unpredictable, almost magical ways. The result is a one-of-a-kind piece of art. While your tiles dry, participants will take part in a gentle walk experiencing the surrounding beauty.

BREAKFAST AND LEARN: TINNITUS DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OPTIONS, AUDIOLOGIST CAITLIN YESIS, AUD, CCC-A

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

This program will provide an overview of the relationship between hearing and tinnitus. Current clinical therapies will be explained, empowering you to make informed decisions about your hearing health.

of a whole food-based diet,” says Garcia, who is from Ewing. “What started as preparing meals for myself evolved into a business driven by a mission to provide healthy, affordable, and delicious meals imbued with love, respect, and passion.”

As demand grew, Garcia took the next step, renting space at Cherry Street Kitchen, a shared commercial kitchen in Trenton. Word of mouth, along with regular posts on the Mercer Bucks Central Jersey Eateries Facebook page, helped build a steady customer base, and he began accepting online orders.

He handled deliveries himself, loading meals into a van and bringing them directly to customers. The operation was simple, but the signal was clear: people were looking for convenient, affordable meals that didn’t sacrifice nutrition.

Today, Kenny’s Meals operates as a self-described “food-prep company.” Walk into any location and you’ll find refrigerators lined with individually packaged meals, organized by protein—beef, chicken, seafood, and more.

Customers can choose from more than 30 meal options ranging from Asian and Latin American to classic Italian and American dishes, along with high-protein breakfasts. Possible options on a given day could include hibachi shrimp, fried

Ewing

rice, kale and Napa cabbage; jerk chicken with coconut rice, cabbage and peppers; and blackened chicken Alfredo with penne and broccoli.

Shelves nearby are stocked with protein powders, supplements, snacks, and energy drinks.

Meals are designed for convenience: simply remove any sauce containers and microwave for under three minutes. Customers can take meals to go or heat them on-site, where most locations offer microwaves and limited seating.

The timing helped. As Covid-19 reshaped daily routines and how people accessed food, demand for prepared meals surged. Across the country, similar concepts were gaining traction, but Garcia had already begun building something that met the moment.

Built on skill… and systems

Before launching Kenny’s Meals, Garcia built his culinary foundation working in professional kitchens and taking coursework at Mercer County Community College. But Garcia knew the advantage wasn’t just in the food. It would also be in how the business runs.

Utilizing his degree in programming from Florida State University, Garcia

developed a custom-designed system to manage inventory across every location. It tracks demand, tells the kitchen what to prepare, and generates labels — making it possible to restock fresh meals daily.

“We restock every store every day,” Garcia says. He explains that this practice is relatively rare in the industry and has become a competitive advantage, ensuring quality and freshness for customers.

As storefronts opened, the business shifted from 100 percent delivery to roughly 90 percent in-store sales and 10 percent delivery.

“The software allows us to scale without friction,” he said.

That system was put to the test when the Bordentown location opened. On its first day, the store sold roughly 1,000 meals.

Despite the volume, operations ran smoothly. “It ran like it had been open for years,” he added.

Growing, one store at a time

Kenny’s Meals opened its first storefront in Lawrence in March 2024. Growth came quickly. By 2025, locations in Marlton and Newtown, Pennsylvania were up and running, along with a 9,000-square-foot kitchen and headquarters. This year, Bordentown and Red Bank locations came online, with another planned for Ewing.

Garcia looks for sites near residential neighborhoods, fitness centers, and areas with strong foot traffic. Places where customers are already thinking about convenience and healthy living.

Even as the footprint expands, the focus remains on consistency and creating an

See KENNY’S, Page 4

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KENNY’S continued from Page 3

experience customers recognize, trust, and return to.

Each Kenny’s Meals location shares a clean, modern design, anchored by handpainted murals from artist Sarah that give every store a distinct identity.

The customer base is just as varied. There is no single demographic — people of all ages, backgrounds, and income levels frequent Kenny’s Meals. That broad appeal is intentional. All of the meat served is Halal, making the meals accessible to a wider range of customers.

In more affluent areas like Red Bank, customers stop in for convenience. In communities like Ewing and Trenton, where budgets can be tighter, the appeal is just as strong. With meals priced at $10 or less, many customers purchase several at a time, stocking up for the week.

Unlike many meal prep companies, Kenny’s Meals does not require a subscription. Even so, roughly 91 percent of customers return.

Garcia believes customers deserve to know exactly what’s in their meals and he’s made transparency central to Kenny’s Meals. Every meal includes detailed labeling with ingredients, calories, and macronutrients to provide customers with the information they need to make informed choices.

That openness extends beyond packaging. Garcia regularly visits stores and kitchens, sharing unscripted, behind-thescenes videos that offer a real look at daily operations.

From the beginning, Garcia has focused on people, emphasizing that he considers his staff family. Many employees who worked with him in the early days at Cherry Street Kitchen are still with the company today, a rarity in an industry known for high turnover.

He has built and retained a strong team by running the business with consistency, respect, and care for the people behind it. He pays above-market wages and offers benefits including retirement plans. At the company’s Morrisville headquarters, employees have access to amenities like free weekend childcare and shared spaces designed for rest and connection. Team outings, from bowling nights to group dinners, are a regular part of the culture.

That investment shows up in the work. When the Bordentown store opened at 8 a.m. on its first day, Garcia arrived early to check in, but found the team was already fully prepared.

“They had everything ready to go,” he said. “We opened without a hitch.”

Feeding the community

Garcia’s commitment extends beyond his business.

When SNAP benefits were reduced last

November, he stepped in. Partnering with the MBCJ Restaurant Coalition and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Mercer County, Kenny’s Meals provided 1,200 fresh, wholesome meals by lowering prices so donations could stretch further and reach more families.

Over four weeks, the Boys and Girls Club distributed 300 meals each Friday, giving families access to nutritious food not just after school, but throughout the weekend.

“We are incredibly grateful to Kenny’s Meals for their generosity in providing 1,500 meals to the youth of the Boys and Girls Club, and to the MBCJ Restaurant Coalition for bridging the partnership,” says Reggie Coleman, CEO of Boys and Girls Clubs of Mercer County. This act of kindness goes far beyond nourishment—it sends a powerful message to our families that their community cares about them, supports them, and believes in their future. Partnerships like this truly make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.”

Garcia has continued collaborating with the coalition on initiatives in Trenton, including meal donations and a bilingual presentation at a family wellness day at Foundation Academy.

Building on that work, he is exploring ways to expand that impact, including plans to open the kitchen headquarters for cooking demonstrations and educational programs for families centered on healthy, whole foods.

These efforts will build on the same principle that shaped his business: making nutritious food accessible to all people, especially those who need it most.

What comes next

Garcia grew up in the Dominican Republic and has also lived in Ewing Township. Today he lives in Bordentown, and has three children.

He did not begin with plans for rapid expansion. But as demand has grown, so has the opportunity to reach more communities. As new storefronts open, his focus remains on quality, consistency, and accessibility, ensuring every meal reflects the same care he once put into cooking for himself.

Looking ahead, he hopes to expand both his physical footprint and his community initiatives, using his kitchens not just to serve food, but to teach, inspire, and connect.

Kenny’s Meals continues to grow, but the mission hasn’t changed. Garcia set out to feed people well and take care of his community.

For Garcia, growth is not the goal. It’s the result of doing something simple, and doing it well.

Kenny’s Meals. 182 U.S. 130, Bordentown; 4110 Quaker Bridge Road, No. 10, Lawrence; plus locations in Marlton, Red Bank, Newtown Pennsylvania, and soon Ewing. Web: kennysmeals.com.

• Basketball

• Outdoor Play

• Arts & Crafts

• Games

• Swimming

Ewing CYO Summer Camp

• Special Guests and In-house programs

June 22nd - August 21st

Activities

•Basketball

• Outdoor Play

• Arts & Crafts • Games

Swimming • Special Guests and   In-house programs

1st grade to register)

Ages 5 - 10

(Must be entering 1st grade to register)

Ewing CYO Preschool

Open daily from 7:30am - 5:30pm.

Full time and part time enrollment available for children ages 2 1/2 to 5 (must be potty trained).

Monday through Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm 320 Hollowbrook Drive

Breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack are provided.

Curriculum follows the NJ State Preschool Standards.

A boutique offering global fashion has opened on North Olden Avenue in Ewing.

International Cotoure, founded by Lola Atunrase, features clothing and accessories inspired by a range of cultures, along with custom design services tailored to individual customers.

SuperSudz Laundry, located in the shopping center at at 1750 N. Olden Ave., offers self-service machines as well as wash-andfold and drop-off services in a large, modern facility equipped with high-efficiency equipment. The business features commercial-grade washers and dryers, along with customer amenities such as free Wi-Fi and on-site attendants.

West Windsor

In West Windsor, Fogo de Chão plans to open its first Central Jersey location and its fourth in New Jersey at Princeton Executive Park on Route 1 North.

The upscale Brazilian steakhouse will feature continuous tableside carving of premium cuts of meat, with diners using a green-and-red card system to control service.

No specific opening date has been announced following planning board approval in 2025.

MarketFair in West Windsor is in the middle of a major leasing and renovation

push.

In a March 9 announcement, shopping center officials said the property is advancing a multi-year growth strategy backed by a $5 million capital investment and more than 41,000 square feet of new retail and dining tenants.

The new tenants include five businesses this year, with more expected as the property continues its leasing push.

OFFLINE by Aerie is expected to open in winter 2026 in a 7,794-square-foot store near Banana Republic. The activewearfocused brand will offer performance apparel and athleisure designed for everyday wear.

A Kohler store also is expected to open in winter 2026. The 3,105-square-foot location near Lovesac will feature kitchen and bath products, cabinetry, tile and lighting.

LaScala’s Fire is expected to open later this year in a 9,552-square-foot space with indoor and outdoor patio seating. The modern Italian restaurant will serve wood-fired pizza, pasta and seafood.

Warby Parker, which is under construction, is expected to open in spring 2026 in a 1,909-square-foot space across from Sunglass Hut. The eyewear retailer sells prescription glasses, sunglasses, contact lenses and related vision products.

Sweetgreen is expected to open this summer in a 2,431-square-foot space across

April 16th from 5-7 pm

April 16th from 5-7 pm Reserve your spot today!

code or register now at

from Tommy’s Tavern + Tap. The fastcasual chain focuses on salads, grain bowls and seasonal ingredients.

Federal Donuts & Chicken is planning a location at MarketFair. The eatery offers hand-crafted doughnuts, fried chicken and coffee as part of the franchisees’ expansion in New Jersey.

The new spot, located next to Barnes & Noble, is expected to open soon, although no specific date has been announced. It would mark the chain’s entry into Mercer County following its first New Jersey shop in Marlton.

MarketFair officials also said the south end of the shopping center has undergone exterior and interior modernization centered on the main south entrance and the corridor anchored by Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, which opened in June 2025.

The work at MarketFair included exterior and interior upgrades, green wall instal-

Blvd. on Route 1 South. The chain lets customers build custom bowls with proteins, greens, grains, toppings, sauces, sides and sweets using fresh, scratch-made ingredients and Mediterranean flavors.

APRON: See Ewing listing.

East Windsor

In East Windsor, Eggmania celebrated a ribbon-cutting for its Route 33 location, adding another food option to the Route 33 and Route 130 commercial area.

Lawrence Townsip

Mercer on One in Lawrence Township continues to add tenants as the former Mercer Mall property is repositioned along the Route 1 corridor.

One of the newest additions is Nan Xiang Express, which opened in October and marked the brand’s New Jersey debut. The fast-casual restaurant serves Shanghai-

We are here in a safe and clean environment for your Emergency Dental Needs! Call 609-454-6500 Stay Safe and Healthy

SUMMER CAMP

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.

• Biology Blast • Car Camp* • Coding and Robotics • Computer Game Creation • Culinary Arts* • Eco Venture • Electrical Construction • Fitness & Games* • How Things Work*

• The DNA Lab* • The Mane Event (Cosmo)* *Session 1 Only

• Camps are taught by certified teaching staff in their respective fields.

• Campers receive a t-shirt and a Certificate of Completion.

desserts.

Mercer on One also has added Kura Revolving Sushi Bar to its restaurant lineup. The Japan-based chain’s Lawrence Township location is part of the center’s redevelopment push, bringing its conveyorbelt sushi concept to the center.

Kura is known for letting diners take plates from a moving belt or order directly from the table.

A project taking shape at Lawrence Shopping Center on Brunswick Pike is Tractor Supply Co., which is planned for a 33,180-square-foot space. It would be the company’s first Mercer County location.

Tractor Supply is a rural lifestyle retailer that sells lawn and garden supplies, pet and animal feed, tools, workwear, fencing, outdoor power equipment and other farm and home products.

Quaker Bridge Mall has also added new tenants. Home & More moved into the former Forever 21 space, filling one of the mall’s largest vacancies with a homefocused retailer centered on decor, furnishings and household items.

The Painter’s Loft, located on the lower level near JCPenney and Foot Locker, offers do-it-yourself art experiences including canvas painting, pottery painting, candle making and other hands-on activities.

The business, which also operates a location in Pennington, provides classes and walk-in sessions for all experience levels, adding another experiential retail option to the mall’s tenant mix.

Another newer tenant at Quaker Bridge is Follicle. The mall directory lists the business as offering threading, waxing, eyelashes and related beauty services.

A new specialty vendor has opened at the Trenton Farmers Market at 960 Spruce St. in Lawrence Township. Witherspoon Meat Market, located in the west wing of the market, offers premium meats, seafood and specialty items.

The Hopewell-based business sources products from local farms and emphasizes quality and food safety, adding another specialty food option to the market’s mix of produce, prepared foods and other goods.

Princeton

In Princeton, SmashBros has joined the restaurant mix at 246 Nassau St. The eatery gives downtown another burger option and specializes in smash-style burgers served with fries and other casual fare.

Best Grill and Fry also has opened in Princeton at 200 Nassau St., Unit 2. The restaurant adds another halal food option to the local market.

Another new addition is Rhone, a performance apparel company, in Palmer Square. The Princeton location is the brand’s second in New Jersey.

Food Street joined Princeton’s restau-

rant mix at 183D Nassau St. in the former Say Cheez location behind Thomas Sweet. The halal eatery offers wraps, burgers, sandwiches and South Asian-inspired street food, drawing on the food culture of Lahore, Pakistan.

House of Ihsan has opened at 6 Spring St. in Princeton, taking over the former Pastry Room space. The boutique café offers tea, coffee and smoothies, along with house-made baked goods and halal-certified menu items such as cheese manakish, smoked salmon toast and avocado toast. The shop also sells wholesale baked goods and coffee beans.

Wonder Pho has opened in Princeton Shopping Center. The Vietnamese restaurant specializes in pho and other traditional dishes, adding another international dining option to the shopping center’s evolving restaurant lineup.

SkinSpirit, a medical aesthetics and skincare provider, has opened at 53 Hulfish St., offering treatments such as facials, injectables and skincare services as part of the district’s mix of retail and personal-service businesses.

Hudson Table has also opened at the shopping center, offering a culinary experience rather than a traditional restaurant. The venue hosts hands-on cooking classes, chef competitions, catering and chef’s table-style multi-course meals. Hudson Table also operates locations in Brooklyn, Hoboken, Philadelphia and Stamford, Connecticut.

Mosaic has opened on the third floor of the Princeton University Art Museum on Elm Drive. The restaurant offers breakfast, brunch and lunch, with menu items including soups, salads, egg dishes, sandwiches and baked goods. Alcohol service is limited to university faculty and staff, museum members and their guests.

XiBei Cuisine opened at 43 Witherspoon St., taking over the longtime Sakura Express space. The restaurant specializes in Northwestern Chinese cuisine, with a menu focused on heartier, wheat-based dishes such as dumplings and noodles, along with traditional items less commonly found in American-style Chinese restaurants.

The Baked Bear is preparing to open at 41 Witherspoon St. in Princeton, taking over the former Bread Boutique space. The chain specializes in custom-made ice cream sandwiches, allowing customers to choose from a variety of cookies, ice cream flavors and toppings. Bread Boutique has relocated up the block to 16 Witherspoon St., the former home of Kilwin’s.

Hamilton

Hamilton Township has had one of the broader mixes of new business activity, with restaurant, retail and service-related openings all recorded on the township’s

business news page in recent months.

DeLorenzo’s The Burg opened Feb. 24 on Sloan Avenue in Hamilton. The pizza restaurant replaced the former DeLorenzo’s Pizza location and is the second location for the business, whose original restaurant is in Levittown, Pennsylvania.

The Burg has no business connection to the previous owners of DeLorenzo’s.

Owner Tyler DeLorenzo is the nephew of Rick DeLorenzo, who owned the former pizza restaurant at that location. The Burg also is separate from De Lorenzo’s Tomato Pies in Robbinsville.

Hamilton also added Dave’s Hot Chicken at 770 Route 33. The restaurant held its grand opening in November and described it as the owners’ third location. It features hand-breaded chicken tenders and sliders, along with drive-thru and online pickup service.

Another new Hamilton restaurant is El Toro Del Fuego at 628 Arena Drive. Township officials said the restaurant celebrated its grand opening Nov. 13.

The business is owned by Sam Zheng, who also owns TacoRito locations. Township officials described the concept as an all-you-can-eat Mexican restaurant with grilled meats, appetizers, sides and a full bar.

Rollito’s Ice Cream Rolls has opened its first brick-and-mortar location at 876

Whitehorse Mercerville Road in Hamilton Township. The business, founded by Ginger and Eduardo Salazar, previously operated as a mobile ice cream cart serving events and community gatherings.

The shop specializes in made-to-order rolled ice cream prepared in front of customers, offering a range of flavors from fruit-based options to chocolate and classic varieties. The new storefront brings the concept to a permanent location following its growth through local demand.

Il Dono has opened at 812 Route 33 in the former Tessara restaurant space. The Italian-American restaurant is owned by Justin Vitella and named for the Italian word meaning “the gift” in honor of his late grandmother.

The restaurant offers house-made pastas, seafood, burgers, steaks, chicken, chops and more alongside a full bar with handcrafted cocktails, wines, and seasonal specialties.

Bagel Bazaar also opened a new Hamilton location in the Mercerville Shopping Center on Route 33.

Officials said the shop celebrated its ribbon-cutting Nov. 10 in the former Fred & Pete’s space. Hamilton’s announcement said Bagel Bazaar has operated for more than 30 years and also has a production and distribution facility in town.

See BUSINESS, Page 10

CARL BENEDET TI JR. FOR COUNCIL

(2011–2020)

President, Ewing Twp. Democratic Club (2020–2025)

Carl Benedetti Jr. Candidate for Council

REBUILDING OUR COMMUNITY

New Ewing Senior & Community Center set to open late 2026

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Advancing Town Center redevelopment

Supporting local businesses and smart growth

PUBLIC SAFETY

Continued investment in police, fire & EMS

Tough-on-crime approach driving down crime

TRANSPARENCY & COMMUNICATION

Ewing Buddy ‘See Click Fix,’ enews, digital signage, keeping residents informed & engaged

Chair, Ewing Township Zoning Board of

Ewing Town Center

Proven Democrat Leaders Moving Mercer Forward

Walter Cimino Lucylle

John

MERCER COUNTY COMMISSIONER

Commissioners Lucy Walter and John Cimino are working tirelessly to make Mercer County a place where all families can prosper and our most vulnerable neighbors are always supported.

On the retail side, DTLR opened at Independence Plaza at 2465 S. Broad St. The store marked the retailer’s first Mercer County location. The company, formerly known as Downtown Locker Room, sells footwear, apparel and accessories from brands such as Nike, Adidas and Jordan.

Hamilton also welcomed Matakas Jiu Jitsu to Clover Square shopping center on Quakerbridge Road. Township officials said the school celebrated its grand opening Nov. 14 and that the Hamilton site is the academy’s second location and first in the township. The business offers youth and adult programs.

A new medical spa has opened at 2275 Whitehorse Mercerville Road, Suite 9. Estetica Medical Aesthetics, founded by Dr. Sofia Dasti, offers non-surgical aesthetic and wellness treatments, including skin rejuvenation and anti-aging services.

Dasti, a board-certified physician with more than 20 years of experience, previously practiced at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton. The business adds to the township’s growing mix of health, wellness and personal-care services.

Other recent Hamilton expansions include Prop Hair Studio, which moved into an expanded location at 2119 Route 33, and Cloak and Dagger, which unveiled a larger Route 33 entertainment hub with

escape rooms, a gel blaster attraction and a rage room.

Yoja Hair Lounge and Yoja Brows have opened side by side at 1450 and 1452 S. Olden Ave. in Hamilton Township. Both businesses are owned and operated by Yojaidy Beita.

Yoja Brows offers permanent makeup services, including eyebrows, lips and eyeliner, while Yoja Hair Lounge provides hair services, nail care and makeup, adding two new beauty-focused businesses to the township’s commercial mix.

A new barbershop has opened in the Dover Park Shopping Center in Hamilton Township. 21 Club Barber Shop, owned by father-and-son team Semaj and Saurel Dastinot, offers haircuts and grooming services in a community-focused setting.

The shop is staffed by a team of barbers and stylists and is open for walk-ins and appointments, adding another personalservice business to the township’s growing commercial mix.

While not a new business, Hamilton Township’s Olde Nottingham Tavern at 9 Mercer St. celebrated the opening of a new indoor-outdoor patio in December, marking the latest upgrade under owners Sam and Lucy Moscarello.

The township said the couple, who took over the longtime tavern in 2023, have already added a new kitchen, a front din-

• Economic Stability: Delivering balanced budgets and protecting your tax dollars while maintaining essential services.

• Infrastructure & Growth: Modernizing our county’s infrastructure and supporting smart redevelopment.

• Community Advocacy: Championing education, environmental sustainability, housing and healthcare equity.

• Experienced

ing room for private events and an outdoor area. The new patio includes exposed wood, high ceilings, a new bar, mounted televisions, heaters and a dedicated pizza oven, adding another feature to the longtime Hamilton landmark.

Patel Brothers market opened last year in the Court at Hamilton shopping center on Quakerbridge Road. The Indian grocery chain, which already operates a location in East Windsor, brought a second Mercer County store to the former Risoldi’s Great Valu space after years of vacancy.

The store offers fresh produce, South Asian groceries, spices, snacks, frozen items and household essentials, with local officials participating in a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Sprouts Farmers Market plans to open a new location in the Mercerville Shopping Center on Route 33 in Hamilton after receiving zoning board approval in 2025.

The natural and organic grocery chain will focus on fresh produce, healthy foods and wellness items as it expands its presence in Central Jersey. No specific opening date has been announced.

An additional Sprouts location is also slated for the former Kohl’s space in East Windsor Village, with a targeted late-2026 opening.

Qdoba Mexican Eats has opened a new location at 1070 White Horse Ave.. The

fast-casual restaurant offers customizable Tex-Mex options, including burritos, bowls, tacos and catering services.

Hopewell

Bre’s Baked Bites has launched in Hopewell as a home-based cottage bakery operated by Breonna Rios. The business offers cupcakes, mini cakes, cookies and brownies, with products sold through custom orders, local events and farmers markets, including the Hopewell Farmers Market.

Rios, a Hopewell resident, started the business in 2025 under New Jersey’s cottage food laws, allowing her to produce baked goods from her home kitchen while building a local customer base and exploring wholesale opportunities.

Pennington

A home and garden store has opened at 10 N. Main St. in Pennington. The Green Trellis, owned by Liz Laughlin, offers orchids, topiaries, home décor and curated gifts.

Robbinsville

Harpoon Willy’s opened last year at 2360 Route 33 in Robbinsville Town Center, bringing the Jersey Shore restaurant group’s contemporary American cui-

See BUSINESS, Page 12

SARAH STEWARD FOR COUNCIL

S a r a h S t e w a r d Candidate for Council

a

Dental assistants are in very high demand, offer excellent work hours, great pay (NJ/PA) average is $25-$30 per hour), and an array of advancement opporunities and certifications.

REBUILDING OUR COMMUNITY

New Ewing Senior & Community Center set to open late 2026

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Advancing Town Center redevelopment

Supporting local businesses and smart growth

PUBLIC SAFETY

Continued investment in police, fire & EMS

Tough-on-crime approach driving down crime

TRANSPARENCY & COMMUNICATION

Ewing Buddy ‘See Click Fix,’ enews, digital signage, keeping residents informed & engaged

Trent Jewelers

CASH FOR GOLD

sine and pub-style atmosphere to Mercer County.

The location, which celebrated its grand opening in early 2025, features more than 300 indoor and outdoor seats, including a 70-seat bar with televisions and a seasonal patio, and serves familiar favorites along with signature items such as truffle tater tots, honey bacon shrimp and edamame dumplings.

Porto by Chef Jason, at 1111 Route 130 North, brings back local chef Jason Dilts, formerly of Zinna’s Bistro in Cranbury and other area spots, with new business partners Elizabeth Porto and her husband.

The BYOB restaurant, which opened last October, serves customer favorites including Boom Boom Chicken, short rib mac and cheese, Brussels sprouts and bread pudding, along with rotating seasonal items.

Plainsboro

The retail destination operates as a one-stop cultural marketplace with extended hours Tuesday through Sunday.

South Brunswick

In South Brunswick, Manzil Cafe opened in Kendall Park at 3010 Route 27 as a cafe and brunch spot.

Tacobee’s Mexican Grill held its soft opening in January at 3059 Route 27 in Franklin Park. It offers Mexican favorites including burrito bowls and other grilled items.

Olé Craft Kitchen & Bar opened last year at 3010 Route 27 in Kendall Park, serving the South Brunswick area with Mexican cuisine and fusion elements. The location offers a full bar and a menu suited for date nights and casual dining.

Bordentown City

Abyssal Brewing Company recently opened in Bordentown City on Farnsworth Avenue. The new microbrewery, founded by Hamilton High West graduates Daniel and Meagan Knowles, serves locally made ales.

Beyond Mercer County, nearby Central Jersey communities also have logged several confirmed openings that add to the broader regional picture.

Big Bazaar opened as an Indian grocery and specialty store at 660 Plainsboro Road in Plainsboro, stocking produce, spices, frozen foods, snacks, paan and home decor.

(Do you know of a new retail business or restaurant opening in the area not mentioned in this article? Or are you opening one yourself? Email us at news@princetoninfo. com and news@communitynews.org.)

Capital Health is excited to announce that it has launched Capital Health Hepatology Specialists, a new practice that provides convenient, specialized liver care from the comfort of patients’ homes. As part of Capital Health Medical Group, clinicians from the practice offer video visit appointments for patients who have an established liver disease diagnosis, are seeking one, or are at higher risk for certain conditions.

“Maintaining good liver health is one of the building blocks of better overall health, so we’re happy to welcome Capital Health Hepatology Specialists as part of our larger Medical Group and Cancer Center,” said Dr. Cataldo Doria, medical director of Capital Health Cancer Center and Liver Center of Excellence. “Working closely with referring physicians, their experienced team offers same-week video visits to help patients manage steatotic liver disease, viral hepatitis, autoimmune liver disease, cirrhosis, and related conditions.”

VIRTUAL CARE FOR PATIENTS WITH LIVER DISEASE

Dr. Lalos has nearly four decades of clinical experience and specializes in diagnosing and treating patients with liver and biliary system conditions. After receiving his undergraduate degree at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Dr. Lalos received his medical degree at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He completed his internal medicine residency at the University of Virginia School of Medicine in Charlottesville, Virginia, followed by a gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine in Farmington, Connecticut and fellowship training in hepatology at the University of Miami School of Medicine in Miami, Florida.

“The liver performs more than 500 vital functions each day, so patients should have easy access for an appointment when they have concerns about their liver health,” said Dr. Alexander Lalos, a board certified, fellowship trained hepatologist at Capital Health Hepatology Specialists. “We’re excited to join Capital Health with telehealth services that make it more convenient for patients in our region to get the care support they need, every step of the way.”

Elizabeth Berry is an acute care nurse practitioner at Capital Health Hepatology Specialists with 20 years of clinical experience. Elizabeth specializes in hepatology and gastroenterology. After receiving her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida, she received her Master of Science in Nursing, Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner degree from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

For patients who are diagnosed with liver cancer, Capital Health Hepatology Specialists work closely with the multidisciplinary team of clinicians at Capital Health’s Liver Center of Excellence, part of Capital Health Cancer Center, to develop comprehensive, personalized care plans.

New Maternal Fetal Medicine Location in Hamilton

Capital Health Maternal Fetal Medicine, part of Capital Health Maternity Services, has opened a new office located at Capital Health – Hamilton (1401 Whitehorse-Mercerville Road, Suite 200 in Hamilton, New Jersey). The new Capital Health Maternal Fetal Medicine – Hamilton, located directly across from Capital Health’s OB/GYN – Hamilton office, expands access to the system’s OB/GYN support services and clinicians that were previously available only at the practice’s office at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell, including board certified perinatologists, master’s-prepared genetic counselors, registered nurses, a certified diabetic educator, and registered sonographers.

“With the opening of our new Hamilton location, pregnant women will have greater access to advanced ultrasounds by certified sonographers, genetic counseling and chromosome screening, nutrition counseling and diabetic management by a certified diabetes educator, and fetal echocardiography services to evaluate babies at risk for heart abnormalities,” said Dr. Thomas Westover, medical director of Capital Health Maternal Fetal Medicine. “Backed by our team of expert clinicians, patients and their referring OB/GYN clinicians can be confident that we’re with them every step of the way.”

To schedule an appointment at Capital Health Maternal Fetal Medicine’s Hamilton or Hopewell locations, please call 609.537.7252 or visit capitalhealth.org/MFM for more information.

Capital Health Maternal Fetal Medicine is part of the Maternity Services Program at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell, the most complete maternity facility in the area. From routine deliveries to high-risk needs, staff at the Josephine Plumeri Birthing Center at Capital Health Medical Center - Hopewell provide a full range of prenatal, obstetrical, postpartum, and neonatal care options so newborns have the greatest chance for a healthy start. The designated Regional Perinatal Center provides neonatal care, including Mercer County’s only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for at-risk births. To learn more, visit capitalhealth.org/maternity.

Update on Lung Cancer Treatment

Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting

Dr. James McPherson, director of Thoracic Surgery and co-director of the Lung Center of Excellence at Capital Health Cancer Center, will discuss the latest treatment options for lung cancer, with a focus on minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery. Join the conversation to learn how this advanced technology can lead to better outcomes with additional benefits that include less pain, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster return to active living.

This event will be taking place virtually using Zoom. Register online at capitalhealth.org/events and be sure to include your email address. Zoom meeting details will be provided via email 2 – 3 days before the program date. Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.

Capital Health Welcomes Dozens of Area HIGH SCHOOLERS FOR A FUTURE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS CAREER DAY

Capital Health recently welcomed 38 students from the Foundation Academy High School in Trenton, New Jersey to Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell for a Future Young Professionals Career Day. Students had the opportunity to explore careers in health care and interact with Capital Health representatives from nearly a dozen departments. The event was hosted by the Capital Health Young Professionals Committee and held in conjunction with the school’s Health Care Week, part of its Career Exploration Month in February.

Capital Health President and CEO Al Maghazehe joined the group for lunch, offering students the chance to connect directly with leadership.

“Part of Capital Health’s commitment to our community is supporting our young people,” said Al Maghazehe, President and CEO of Capital Health. “Health care offers many opportunities for meaningful careers, and it’s my hope that we can help young people in the communities we serve learn about the many possibilities available to them in health care, including at Capital Health. This event was especially meaningful because it was planned by our Young Professionals Committee. Their enthusiasm for sharing their knowledge and excitement about careers in health care is inspiring and gives me great hope for the future of leadership here at Capital Health.”

“Experiences like this help make the future feel real for our scholars,” said Nwasha Edu, Senior Manager of Workforce at Foundation Academy Collegiate. “By connecting directly with professionals across so many areas of health care, students are able to see how their interests, classroom learning, and personal goals can translate into meaningful, family-sustaining careers. We’re grateful to Capital Health and their Young Professionals for opening their doors, sharing their journeys, and investing in the next generation of health care leaders.”

During their visit, students explored the wide range of career pathways available within the health care industry and learned how classroom learning translates into real world roles in patient care, administration, hospital operations, and more.

Students participated in interactive sessions in a “round robin” format with Capital Health employees from various departments including Radiology, Nursing, Marketing and Public Relations,

Risk Management, Pharmacy, Food and Nutrition Services, Maintenance and Facilities, Medical Administration, Information Technology, Rehabilitation, and Emergency Medical Services. Department representatives answered student questions and provided educational materials about potential future careers. Students were also given the opportunity to tour Capital Health’s Mobile Simulation Lab, gaining hands on insight into a patient care experience.

Through conversations and behind the scenes exposure, students learned about the educational requirements for a wide range of roles that support the high-quality care at Capital Health.

This event reflects Capital Health’s continued commitment to the local community, workforce development, health care education, and inspiring the next generation of health care professionals.

Capital Health is the Central New Jersey/Lower Bucks County region’s leader in providing progressive, quality patient care with significant investments in physicians, nurses and staff, as well as advanced technology. Comprised of two hospitals (Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton and Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell), a Hamilton outpatient facility, and an extensive network of primary and specialty care practices across the region, Capital Health is a dynamic health care resource accredited by DNV. To learn more or to search career opportunities at Capital Health, visit capitalhealth.org/careers.

FREE UPCOMING HEALTH EDUCATION EVENTS

Register by calling 609.394.4153 or register online at capitalhealth.org/events and be sure to include your email address. Please register early. Class size is limited. Zoom meeting details will be provided via email 2 – 3 days before the program date. Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.

Stroke: Preventable, Treatable, Beatable

Wednesday, May 6, 2026

Free BP Screening – 5 p.m. | Lecture – 6 p.m.

Location: Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell CURE Auto Insurance Conference Center, One Capital Way, Pennington, NJ 08534

An Introduction to ADHD

Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting

Do you have a family history of stroke, or have you experienced a stroke and want to learn how to prevent another one in the future? Get the latest information from registered nurses and Stroke Program coordinators Maria Gilli and Pamela Esher, who will discuss stroke signs and symptoms, types of strokes, individual risk factors, and treatment options. Get your blood pressure checked before the lecture.

Join Dr. Arvind Bhasker from Capital Health Behavioral Health Specialists for a conversation that covers the basics of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In addition to providing guidance for understanding symptoms in adults and children, he’ll also discuss options for managing ADHD with and without medication.

SportS Traylor hits milestone, leads

By Justin Feil

Terrance Traylor knew where he stood, and so did his Ewing High School teammates.

The moment the Blue Devils senior point guard dropped in a left-handed layup off a fastbreak turnover with 5:06 left in a big win over Hamilton on January 15, his teammates swarmed him to celebrate his 1,000th career point.

“It just felt great to hit it,” Traylor said. “It felt surreal.”

The moment was just one highlight in a final season with Ewing to cap a consistently impressive career. Scoring has always been a big part of Traylor’s game. In his first season starting as a sophomore, he averaged 11.7 points per game. His junior season, he upped it to 13.9 points per game. This year, he posted 514 points, an average of 18.4 points per game.

“I knew it was my last year, so it just meant a lot to me,” said Traylor. “And being a senior this year, I was more the

number one option. Maybe before I was like pass first, but I just went out there and pulled my team.”

Traylor’s passing didn’t dip much. He would have been a fantasy league firstround pick with numbers like his. Not only was he scoring close to 20 points per game, he dished out more than five assists per contest. He closed his career with 480 assists.

“I’m a point guard first so that’s just like my natural game so I feel like that’s always going to come to me easily,” he said.

He also had his best rebounding year with 5.7 rebounds per game, something he attributed to his teammates boxing out well and allowing him to track down the ball. His overall numbers helped to help carry the Blue Devils to a 19-9 season.

“Things went well, but I feel like we could have went farther as a team, made it to at least sectionals finals,” Traylor said. “But I feel like it still went well and we played good as a team.”

Ewing reached the quarterfinals of the Colonial Valley Conference tournament and in the Central Jersey Group 3 tournament, they finished off Brick Township and Northern Burlington before finally bowing out to Westampton Tech in the sectional semifinals.

“I was just happy about the guys coming together and having a good season,” Traylor said. “That was the main thing. We all bonded really well. And I feel like being a family is the best thing, the memories you make with your teammates.”

Traylor leaves a memorable legacy of his own. He is the 17th player in program history to score 1,000 points in a career.

“I definitely thought about that,” Traylor said. “That was a big goal for me.”

Joel Cineus reached the milestone last year, but there was less fanfare because he did it on the road.

Traylor was determined to reach the mark at home when he came within 22 points of it leading into Hamilton. He was confident he could accomplish it but did feel some pressure being so close to the

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mark.

“I was a little nervous because I just didn’t know what the moment was going to feel like,” he said. “But it was like good nerves. It was like nerves for a good moment. I knew it was going to happen.”

It was part of another solid season. This one was more special because it came in his final time at Ewing as part of a strong senior class that included Hyshyon Cannon, Tyon Lind, Shawn Robertson, Jessiah Stephenson, Khayden Sullivan and Kristian Thomas.

“The senior class, we’re all really tight,” Traylor said. “Definitely tight together. We’ve all been together since like sophomore year so we’ve been waiting for it.”

They helped put together a series of good runs. The season began with five straight wins. In the middle of the year, they won eight out of nine games. They had grand visions of advancing to a title game in the CVC and in the sectional before suffering narrow losses in both.

“I feel like that’s everybody’s goal –go farther and win,” Traylor said. “But

sometimes it doesn’t go like that.”

The class has seen consistent success. Over their final three seasons, the Blue Devils won 58 games. They have helped to set the bar high for next season and beyond. They’ll hand off the reins to the likes of juniors Jeremiah Upshur, Michael Upshur and Jason Carter along with sophomores Josiah Andino and Jaxon Carter.

“I feel like they look great,” Traylor said. “They work hard, and it’s hard work. You never know what will happen with hard work.”

Traylor credits his development to hard work. He came into high school with some skills and he has continued to work at them. This year, he led the Blue Devils in 3-pointers, a tribute to fine tuning his outside shooting with his coaches. It’s helped him to become a more complete player.

“I feel like my game has just matured and I became a smarter player IQ wise,” he said. “I started to make better decisions and have less turnovers. And I feel

EHS boys’ basketball player Terrance Traylor jumps to score a basket.

Restoration and Repair

like this year and last year I shot the ball really well, way better than my sophomore year.”

The skill work added to his non-stop motor and grit.

“I always felt like I played hard but I’m definitely stronger now than I was when I first started,” he said. “I always played bigger than I was.”

He expects that growth to continue at the next level. Traylor is trying to narrow his best fit for where to play in college. He can follow in the footsteps of several recent Ewing graduates who are playing in college.

“I always thought I could play in college,” Traylor said. “When I got to middle school it became a real goal for me – like that’s something I want to do in life, I want to play college basketball while still getting my education.”

Traylor is turning his attention to how he can help a college team now. He projects as a point guard who can both score and set up teammates. He’s hoping to bring many of the same things into college that worked for him in high school.

“I feel like the biggest challenge would be probably the physicality at the next level,” Traylor said. “But if I just stay working hard and get stronger, then I should be OK. I feel like my game can translate really well.”

So far, Terrance Traylor has been able to accomplish many of his personal goals. Scoring 1,000 points this season was just one big reward for all his hard work, and he has tried to pass that lesson along to the next wave of players that will try to carry Ewing to new heights.

“I feel like I showed them what it takes to be good and the dedication it takes and the hours,” Traylor said.

April 25th - May 3rd 2026

You’re invited to participate in Ewing's fifth annual Restaurant Week our America’s 250th birthday edition!

Restaurants & Cafes

Showcase your restaurant with its signature dishes, attract new guests, and turn first-time visitors into loyal customers. Participate in a way that best suits your restaurant and your menu We encourage you to feature a special “250th” theme, connecting the celebration of local dining to America’s upcoming 250th birthday. Sign up to let your flavors shine and your tables stay full! The deadline for participation is Friday, April 17, 2026

Food Lovers

Indulge in a week of irresistible flavors! From Ewing’s favorite cozy cafés to fine dining, enjoy exclusive prix-fixe menus, chef specials, and culinary surprises at your favorite local spots. Treat yourself without breaking the bank your taste buds deserve it!

Join in and be part of our community-wide celebration of our local eateries and America’s 250 birthday! th

When

Saturday, April 25Sunday, May 3

Where

Restaurants of all types throughout Ewing

jkeyes-maloney@ewingnj.org

Bert H. Steinmann, Mayor

June

April

Adopt-a-Survivor Program BeginsatEwing HighSchool

EHS Drama Department Celebrates Outstanding Production of In the Heights!

Nearlysixty years since Alliedforcesliberated the Naziconcentration camps,the now elderly survivors

Lewin,RuthLubitz, Charles Rojer and JackZaifman— wereoriginallyfromGermany, Czechoslovakia, Polandand Belgium.

Ewing High School’s musical production of Broadway’s In the Heights brought to life the ever-changing dynamics of a neighborhood as it tries to sustain its identity through changes and gentrification.

The musical takes place in New York’s Washington Heights, over three days of unrelenting hot weather, and focuses on a bodega owner, Usnavi. As we all know, in a neighborhood, the bodega, or the shop on the corner, is where people stop in to purchase a few items, share some good gossip, a few woes, and a worthy laugh. It is the glue of the community, a place where people connect.

The AAS program pairs a survivorwithone or morestudents. The studentsembarkona joint journey withthe survivorthrough discussions about life before, duringand after the Holocaust.Participating studentswillbeabletorepresent the survivorand tellthe survivor’sstory withaccuracyand feeling in the years tocome. Inaddition, eachstudent makes a commitmenttotellthe survivor’sstory ina public venue inthe year2045, a hundred years after the liberationofAuschwitz.

The twelvestudent adoptersare DaveAngebranndt, Tyler Barnes, Annie Cook, Liz Dunham, Emily Everett, CurtisFornarotto, Vildana Hajric, Devon Jones, Jen Meade,Billy O’Callaghan,NikytaSharmaand MelysaWilson.

As in our own town, right here in Ewing Township, houses, apartments, and townhouses are going up, and we as a community are changing and welcoming new neighbors. Our new neighbors are bringing new ideas, new foods, sharing their culture, and enhancing our vibrant community. So, stop by your local “bodega,” be it the 7-Eleven, the WAWA, the Dunkin Donuts, the diner, or any of the other plethora of restaurants and local shops, and smile and say hello. Welcome to Ewing Township! Congratulations to our talented students on a job well done! The show was fantastic! It was the perfect choice to celebrate our diverse, vibrant community where all are welcome.

Safety Town

June 30 - July 11

Contact: Jean Conrad

609-538-9800 x1302 for application

The Ewing Public Schools

The Ewing Public Schools

Ryan Greig Awarded Prestigious Ed Cook

Teacher of the Year Recipients are Honored

$2,000 Scholarship at Del Val Scholars Dinner

The 64th Annual George Wah Scholar-LeaderAthlete Awards were held on Sunday, March 8.

Established in 1962, the Delaware Valley Chapter of the National Football Foundation is closely involved in amateur football in the Central New Jersey area.

The annual Scholar-Leader-Athlete banquet is the premier event for the chapter. The dinner is held annually in March and attracts over 250 football enthusiasts. Included in the event are 21 schools representing Burlington, Mercer, Monmouth, and Ocean Counties where scholarships are awarded. This year, $31,500 in scholarships were awarded, and Ewing’s Ryan Greig was one of the awardees.

The selection process is rigorous, and each candidate must possess the following criteria:

• A Scholar – Outstanding academic application and performance

• A Leader – Outstanding leadership and citizenship

The recipients of the 2005

of

• An Athlete – Outstanding football ability and performance

It is a combination of all these attributes that the winners, all young individuals honored, are true scholar-athletes.

with a level of passion and intensity that is rare. What sets Ryan apart most is his ability to lead by example while also knowing exactly what to say to motivate and uplift his teammates. He is a genuinely caring individual who wears his heart on his sleeve and consistently puts the team before himself.”

Greig led the Blue Devils to seven straight wins and a spot in the state Group 2 playoffs. He’s a twoyear captain and three-year starter in baseball as well. But beyond athletics, Ryan is deeply committed to serving others.

He is part of the Unified Physical Education/Partner Athletic Program, a Little League volunteer, a Junior Blue Devils Football volunteer, and participates in the district’s Read Across America programs, serving as a leader in the elementary schools.

Ewing High Students Attend Gorbachev Presentation

Ewing High School’s senior quarterback, Ryan Greig, was honored and received the prestigious $2,000 Ed Cook Scholarship.

Whitney Lewis, EHS Freshman

On April 18, 2005 Ms. Chiavuzzo, Mrs. Walker and 30 Ewing High School freshmen joined several Mercer County high school and college students, and politicians to hear a presentation given by Mikhail Gorbachev at the Sovereign Bank Arena. Gorbachev was the last communist leader of the Soviet Union from 1985 to 1991. During his term he instituted various policies including his political policy of Glasnost and economic policy

A star on and off the field, Ryan Greig, truly put his stamp on the 2025 Ewing Blue Devils.

More than 1,500 yards passing, 22 combined passing/rushing touchdowns, and an undefeated record in the division. A three-year starter at QB, a two-year captain. An Honor Roll student with the highest GPA on the team. Winner of the program’s two internal honors – the William Rakita Award and the Dr. Keel Scholar Athlete Award – representing more than just on the field stats.

Have a Happy Summer!!

No matter how you slice it, Ryan Greig is a “dude” in the best sense of the word.

GoodNews will resume with the September issue of the Observer

“Ryan is one of the most impactful athletes I have had the privilege to coach,” Ewing’s Al-Majid Hutchins said. “He is a fierce competitor who plays

of Perestroika. His policies reopened churches, released political prisoners, and lifted bans on previously censored books.

“I give Ryan my highest recommendation for this award and have complete confidence that he will uphold its standards with integrity and distinction.” Congratulations, Ryan, and good luck in your future endeavors!

The 20th anniversary of Perestroika was one of the essential themes of Gorbachev’s presentation. The policy’smain goal was to make the Soviet economic system more efficient. Perestroika involved the transfer of control from the government to the business owners. This policy continued on page A2 continued on page A2

Antheil fifth grader, Sean Burns, was the lucky winner of a special PTO drawing at Antheil’s Winter Wonderland, earning a memorable ride to school with a police officer. Sean was picked up by Officer Mohamed Omara and proudly posed for a photo to mark the occasion. It was a wonderful experience and a great example of the positive partnership between our school community and the Ewing Police Department.

Due to budget restraints NO Summer School Programs will be offered by the Ewing Public Schools during the Summer of 2005.

Teacher

the Year Awards were honored at a luncheon on April 29th. Jan Fay, 2004 Mercer County Teacher of the Year, was a guest speaker. 1st row (L to R): Joan Zuckerman, Principal Antheil; Sharon Solomon, Lore; Jan Fay, 2004 Mercer County Teacher of the Year; Inetta Emery, Principal Parkway; Danielle Miller, EHS; Superintendent Ray Broach. 2nd row: Darrell Jackson, Principal FMS; Donna Andreas, Antheil; Don Barnett, FMS; Betsy Turgeon, Parkway; Rodney Logan, Principal EHS.

The Ewing Public Schools

Fisher Middle School Welcomes Back Inspiring Alumni Speakers

On Friday, March 6, Fisher Middle School had the wonderful privilege of welcoming former students Selwa and Soumaya Benkhoukha, members of the Fisher Middle School Class of 2014, as guest speakers during the school’s Recognition Assembly. The sisters returned to their former middle school to share inspiring words and personal experiences with current students. Their presentation centered on Fisher’s SOAR expectations — Safety, Ownership, Achievement, and Respect — and how those values helped guide their academic journeys and personal success.

Selwa and Soumaya encouraged students to set meaningful goals and work consistently to achieve them, reminding them that the habits and reputa-

tions they build now can open doors in the future. They also spoke about the importance of being the best version of themselves, staying involved in school activities, and giving back to the Fisher and Ewing community. Their message resonated with students as they reflected on their own experiences at Fisher and the lessons they learned along the way. Both alumni have continued to excel academically. Selwa Benkhoukha earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and English from Temple University and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis, with plans to obtain a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. Soumaya Benkhoukha earned her Bachelor’s degree in PreMed and Public Health and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences, with the goal of attending medical school.

FMS Odyssey of the Mind Team’s Epic Quest!

The Fisher Middle School (FMS) Odyssey of the Mind team placed third overall at the New Jersey Coastal Plains Regional Competition on Saturday, March 7, 2026.

The team’s Long-Term Problem, 3 Classics...“The Epic Quest, Division II,” featured an original script, an original rap, and a challenging quest of epic proportions created entirely by this amazing team of students.

Team members Madison Baxter, Empress Canada, Audrey Deturk, Noa Fogg, Marshall Jonas, Xavier Laidler, and Elizabeth Mahler spent months writing, designing, building, and performing their

Lunar New Year

At Antheil, Mrs. Spagnuolo-Italiano’s morning and afternoon Bridge classrooms learned about the Lunar New Year. Students watched a dragon dance and made their own dragon using a variety of art materials. Students were also given training with chopsticks to explore. Morning students used the chopsticks to eat marshmallows while afternoon students were able to try their chopstick skills on vegetable dumplings.

solution to this complex problem. Throughout the process, they demonstrated tremendous creativity, perseverance, and collaboration.

The intellectual challenge these outstanding 8th graders embraced brought them closer together as a team as they worked through obstacles, applied critical thinking, designed costumes, built their set, and refined their performance. Their dedication, imagination, and teamwork were evident on stage, and they represented Fisher Middle School with pride.

Scoring for the competition is broken down into three categories: Long-Term Problem Solution, Style, and Spontaneous. Our FMS creative geniuses placed first in the Long-Term Problem Solution, solving the problem, and in the performance of the solution, which is no small feat! Congratulations!

The team was led by coaches Stacy Khanna and Bonnie Spring, who supported and guided the students throughout their creative journey.

Congratulations to this incredible group for their hard work and achievement!

EHS Environmental Club Visits Parkway and Lore

“In February, Ewing High School’s (EHS) Environmental Club held two classes honoring Black History Month with Parkway Elementary School’s S.T.E.M. Club! Club members gave an educational presentation highlighting prominent African American figures across S.T.E.M. fields. Together, we celebrated the achievements, resilience, and central roles of Black Americans in U.S. history. We emphasized the importance in teaching the younger generations that we can strive to achieve great things, no matter who we are, where we come from, the color of our skin, or our gender; the power to define your future is within you. Along with a presentation, club members had students create their own scientists and dive deeper into what their interests in the S.T.E.M. field could be! Thank you to all of those who came out to make these two days at Parkway memorable! We hope to see you at the next event.” – Written by 12th grader and Environmental Club President, Shannon Zhispon

“On March 4th, the EHS Environmental Club students visited Lore Elementary School’s new Green Team Club to share an afternoon learning about Butterfly Conservation! Together, the team shared a cozy story time with the book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle, followed by an interactive presentation on how students can protect these little friends wherever they go. Green Team members then had the opportunity to design their own caterpillars in a paper craft project. To wrap up the afternoon, EHS students played a game with the Green Team to check their understanding of the importance of butterflies in the environment. The visit concluded with lots of smiles and a newfound excitement for these small pollinators!” – Written by 12th grader and Environmental Club’s Media Coordinator, Diana Lima-Flores

The Ewing Public Schools

EHS Senior Spotlight: Meet Terrance Traylor

If you could use one word to describe yourself, what would that word be? Humble.

As you look to your future, what is your destiny? My future holds going to college and becoming a successful basketball player while getting my degree.

Your final season of high school basketball has come to a close, but not without fanfare. You are now in the Ewing High School Athletic History Books for Boys Basketball, making your mark by scoring your 1,000th point against Hamilton West this past season. Your name will be enshrined with all the other EHS “greats” on the wall of the Emil Wandishin gym forever. Congratulations!

Now that you have time to reflect, tell us how you felt when that ball swished through the net? I felt great when that happened because it was a big milestone that represented all of my hard work.

When reading the names placed before where your name will go, did any of those players before you inspire your high school basketball career? Trey Lowe was a big inspiration.

You are a role model for the younger generation of Ewing basketball players coming up through the program. What is your advice to those who want to follow in your footsteps to strive to be an excellent Ewing High School student-athlete like yourself?

OBA Celebrates the 101st Day of School

O’Brien Academy (OBA) Elementary students had an exciting time celebrating the 101st day of school with a fun and engaging scavenger-style sight word activity! Students went on a special “Sight Word Unscramble Hunt,” searching around the classrooms and hallways for hidden word clues. Each clue contained scrambled sight words that students worked together to decode and unscramble. With clipboards in hand and plenty of enthusiasm, young learners practiced their reading skills while solving each puzzle they discovered. The activity combined movement, teamwork, and literacy, making the 101st day of school both educational and memorable for everyone involved.

Stay focused on the main thing and stay out of trouble. Trust your coaches because they are always trying to put you in the best position for yourself.

Athletes need to eat. It is your final semester of high school, and your schedule includes the course, “Culinary Arts III/Baking and Confections” with Mr. Kocubinski. You also took “Culinary Arts II” in your first semester. Any interest in going into a career in Culinary Arts, or just learning to help out Mom in the kitchen? Culinary class with Mr. K is great! I don’t have any interest in going into culinary arts, I’m just learning how to cook on my own for the future.

What is your favorite meal or dessert that you have created in class? My favorite meal that we made was oxtails, mac and cheese, and yams.

Who is your favorite teacher? She is not a teacher, but my favorite administrator is Ms. Sabo.

What awards or acknowledgments have you received in school or outside of school? Winning the conference championship my junior year.

What accomplishments are you most proud of? Making an all-conference team every year I played varsity. Who or what has positively impacted your life? My mom has positively impacted my life, always pushing me to be the best version of myself.

How do you define success? Being dedicated and hard-working in whatever you want to do in life.

Fourth Graders Celebrate Winter Wonderland After the Blizzard of 2026

Spring has arrived, thankfully, after the Blizzard of 2026 blanketed Ewing in a thick layer of sparkling snow. Fourth graders at Antheil Elementary School wasted no time turning the chilly aftermath into a day of excitement and laughter. Bundled in colorful coats, scarves, and gloves, students raced outside to throw snowballs, craft creative snowmen, and make friendly snow angels across the playground.

The storm may have brought icy roads and school closures, but for these students, it delivered something far more memorable: a chance to experience winter at its most magical.

In the News at the FMS Media Center!

Students at Fisher Middle School recently participated in the Annual Poetry Café, held as part of the National African American Read-in, sponsored by the National Council of Teachers of English. The event, organized by Mrs. Bauer and Mrs. Cline, provided students with an opportunity to share original poetry or read works by African American poets while celebrating the power of voice, storytelling, and literary expression.

March was Youth Art Month, and the Fisher Library celebrated by hosting a Tiny Art Show. Students created artwork on 3×3 sticky notes in any medium. Entries could include words, text, or quotes, as long as they reflected positivity.

Antheil 4th Grade Students Attend Children’s Concert at TCNJ

Ms. Melanie Mayerson, Antheil Instrumental Music Teacher, was enthusiastic to share that Antheil’s fourth graders had the opportunity to attend a children’s concert at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ). The performance was titled Wild Symphony, based on the book by Dan Brown.

TCNJ’s Wind Ensemble put on a great performance, and music education students facilitated the event. Students were encouraged to dance along with movement scarves and toy lions, play along with egg shakers, and see the story come to life with pictures projected in the hall!

Ms. Mayerson was complimented on how respectful our students were as audience members. The students were super engaged and had a great time!

The Ewing Public Schools

Blue Devils Unified Basketball Team Celebrates Memorable Season and Playoff Run

The Ewing High School Blue Devils Unified Basketball team put together an exciting and inspiring season filled with teamwork, determination, and big moments on the court. From their opening game to their impressive run in the state tournament, the team consistently demonstrated the spirit of Unified sports and the power of playing together.

The Blue Devils started their season strong with a 26–16 victory over Monroe in their season opener. One of the most thrilling games of the season came in a 28–26 nail-biting victory over Eastern Regional High School. The game went down to the final minutes with both teams battling until the end.

The highlight of the season came during the NJSIAA State Tournament, where the Blue Devils showed their growth and resilience. In the second round, the team defeated Cherokee 38–32 in an exciting game. Kody Schneider led the team with 9 points, while Ryan Greig added 5 points. One of the most memorable moments of the season occurred when Trevon Nelson hit a half-court buzzer-beater at the end of the first half, electrifying the crowd. Parker French, Tyler French, and Hayden Rockino each scored 4 points, while Michael Gamboa Ordini, Chris Jones, Justin Ryczkowski, and Xander Coston all added baskets to secure the win.

The Blue Devils ultimately advanced to the third round of the NJSIAA State Tournament, improving on their playoff performance from the previous season. The team’s growth throughout the year showcased not only their basketball skills but also the core values of Unified sports — teamwork, inclusion, and sportsmanship.

A picture says 1,000 words. This was especially true at the NJSIAA Unified State Tournament Basketball game when Trevon Nelson hit the basket from half court!

April 2026 Schedule in Ewing Schools

Apr 1-3 SCHOOL CLOSED – Spring Break

Apr 7 Jazz Through the Decades Concert @ EHS Auditorium - 7pm

Apr 9 Antheil - PTO Meeting @ 6:30pm

Apr 13 EHS - S2 T1 Q2 Parent Progress Reports/ Genesis Parent Access

Apr 14 FMS - Spring Vocal Music Concert @ 7:15pm Parkway - PTA Meeting @ 6pm

Apr 15 FMS - FPA Virtual Meeting @ 7pm

Apr 16 EHS - Counseling Department Junior Night @ 6pm

K-8 District Family STEM Night @ FMS - 6:30-8pm

Apr 17 FMS - Spring Book Fair

Apr 20-24 FMS - Spring Book Fair

Apr 21 Lore - PTA Meeting @ 7pm Elementary Schools - 3rd Marking Period Report Cards/ Genesis Parent Access

Apr 22 Parkway - Unity Day: Earth Day FMS - 3rd Marking Period/Parent Genesis Access

Apr 23 Take Your Child to Work Day

Apr 25 POAC Autism Walk for a Difference @ FMS - 11am-2pm

Apr 27 Board of Education Meeting @ 6pm (Gusz Building) Public Session @ 6:30pm

Apr 30 FMS - Musical “Once on This Island, JR.” @ 6:30pm

May 1 FMS - Musical “Once on This Island, JR.” @ 6:30pm

May 2 FMS - Musical “Once on this Island, JR.” @ 2pm & 6:30pm

For questions or information, please contact the Superintendent’s Office:

609-538-9800 ext. 1102 thullings@ewingboe.org www.ewing.k12.nj.us

The Jack & Sheryl Morris Cancer Center

coMMUNItY forUM

School districts say historic aid little help in fiscal ‘perfect storm’

Funding debate intensifies as budget pressures mount statewide

Health insurance costs rocketing 30% or more. Aging roofs and boilers. Budget shortfalls hitting $100 million.

For New Jersey school districts facing financial pressure like never before, Gov.

Mikie Sherrill last week offered some relief: $12.4 billion in school aid, for a $370 million increase. At the same time, she recommended savings to be found in consolidation and shared services among almost 600 school districts. And she committed to adding state Department of Education staff to guide school boards through the worst fiscal challenges.

Still, education advocates and lawmakers say they’re facing projected holes that not even state aid, projected at an historic high, can fill. As public budget hearings begin in Trenton this

week, educators, lawmakers, advocates and others say few debates will top those about school funding.

“What we’re seeing right now is a perfect storm,” said Betsy Ginsburg, executive director of the Garden State Coalition of Schools, which advocates for school boards. “All the factors that are big cost drivers for districts — transportation, special education, health care, salaries — have gone up exponentially.”

Sherrill’s plan includes funding increases for roughly 400 of the state’s nearly 600 school districts, decreases for 167 districts and flat levels for about seven districts.

Norma Fernandez told NJ Spotlight News.

Sherrill, in her March 10 budget address, urged schools to cut costs by sharing services or merging. Some say that would require a years-long process with no guaranteed payoff.

“There are savings to be achieved through shared services,” said Jonathan Pushman, senior director of advocacy for the New Jersey School Boards Association. “But consolidation isn’t necessarily the panacea that some folks would like to portray it as. It doesn’t always save money.”

‘Thorough and efficient’

Newark, the state’s largest school system, is slated to see a $60.6 million increase, the largest in terms of dollars. Another big system, Jersey City, which lost $300 million over almost a decade, is facing a $3.9 million cut, among the steepest declines. Next year’s projected deficit puts the the system “one crisis away from catastrophe,” Superintendent

Lawmakers starting on Wednesday will consider Sherrill’s $60.7 billion proposed budget for the fiscal year that starts July 1. School aid accounts for one-fifth of the total.

New Jersey’s constitution mandates a “thorough and efficient” education, and to achieve that the 2008 School Funding Reform Act devised a complex formula to distribute aid to districts. The goal

schools.

In 2018, the law was tweaked to shift aid to districts that were historically underfunded from those deemed overfunded. One assistance category, called equalization aid, complicates the process further, as it gives greater state resources to needy districts based on demographics and tax bases.

Sherrill used a three-year district wealth average to determine the “local share” slice from property taxes.

To reduce fluctuating numbers that complicated budgeting, she capped state aid cuts at 3% and increases at 6%, as her predecessor, fellow Democrat Phil Murphy, had done.

For some, the increase limit is an insult.

“This is simply unfair to students, families and taxpayers in communities that have been carrying the burden for far too long,” said Sen. Declan O’Scanlon (R-Monmouth), referring to suburban districts whose state aid has shrunk for years.

Almost all stakeholders say the funding formula is outdated, pointing to a Department of Education report that cites the need for greater year-to-year stability and recognition of rising costs.

“We don’t need to scrap the current funding formula, but I do think we need an overhaul,” Ginsburg said.

‘Never seen it like this’

The K-12 Westwood Regional School District, serving Westwood and Washington Township in Bergen County, is in line for a 6% aid increase. Still, it announced potential staff cuts due to a 30% spike in health-insurance costs.

“I have never seen it like this,” Ginsburg said of the increasing number of districts announcing budget deficits and examining such spending reductions. “All of my districts — no matter where they stand today with regards to state aid increases, decreases

or flat funding — their biggest worry is costs.”

Pushwall, from the state School Boards Association, said the crisis goes well beyond the “difficult choices” faced by districts each year.

“Many of them have now reached a fiscal cliff, where they have found no more areas left to cut without harming students or staff,” Pushwall said.

In Jersey City, Fernandez, the superintendent, plans to deliver a budget proposal this month. A $100 million projected deficit may force the loss of 200 jobs, including entry-level and administrative, she said, though her “commitment is to eliminate as few positions as possible.”

“We’re implementing a number of efficiencies,” Fernandez said, but they likely won’t be enough to offset higher costs for health insurance, salaries, special education and charter schools. Maintenance for the city’s school buildings, most 90-120 years old, also are being examined.

“We’ve replaced a number of boilers and roofs, but we won’t be able to continue that investment in facilities,” Fernandez said. “We’re one crisis away from catastrophe if a major event were to happen to our buildings.”

Fernandez said she takes issue with the funding formula’s wealth measures. Low-income areas make the city rank among the state’s neediest districts while a downtown building boom over several decades has coaxed New Yorkers to relocate to luxury high-rises and brownstones. In 2022 the listing website Rent.com declared Jersey City the most expensive place in the country to lease a home, with a monthly average of $5,500.

“We’re caught between what the state says the wealth of Jersey City is and the reality of not being able to fund our schools,” Fernandez said.

Catherine Carrera

Education and child welfare writer (NJ Spotlight)

What NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center designation means

Ask The Doctor

When you or someone close to you is navigating a cancer diagnosis, choosing where to receive care can feel overwhelming. You may see or hear the term National Cancer Institute (NCI)designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, but what does that mean and why does it matter?

Malini M. Patel, MD, member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group, Director of Medical Oncology, the Cancer Center at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton (RWJUH Hamilton), an RWJBarnabas Health facility, in partnership with Rutgers Cancer Institute, the state’s only NCIdesignated Comprehensive Cancer Center, shares the facts.

“The designation comes from the National Cancer Institute (NCI), which is part of the National Institutes of Health,” says Dr. Patel. “NCI recognition may be

one of the highest honors a cancer center can achieve in the United States. It signals that the center meets rigorous standards in cancer research, treatment, prevention and education.”

See our ads in SIX09 section pgs 5 and 7

FACT: A Commitment to LeadingEdge Research.

To earn the “comprehensive” designation, a cancer center must demonstrate excellence across several areas of scientific research. These include laboratory research that explores how cancer develops, clinical research that studies new treatments in patients and population-based research that focuses on cancer prevention and outcomes in communities.

FACT: Access to Innovative Treatments and Clinical Trials.

One major advantage of receiving treatment at an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center is access to a wide range of clinical trials. These research studies evaluate new drugs, therapies, and approaches to care that may not yet be available elsewhere.

Clinical trials can offer patients the opportunity to receive promising treatments while contributing to advances that may help future patients. Not every patient will need or quality for a clinical trial but having access to these options expand the possibilities for personalized care.

Cancer Institute. An NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center is a designation reserved for cancer centers who offer an added level of expertise, research involvement, and innovation. “For cancer patients, this designation can provide reassurance that the center is meeting the nation’s highest standards for cancer care, scientific research and leadership, prevention and education, and are successful in completing a rigorous review process every 5 years,” said Dr. Patel.

FACT: New Jersey’s ONLY NCIdesignated Comprehensive Cancer Center.

“Physicians and scientists at these centers work together to translate discoveries from the laboratory into new therapies for patients,” adds Dr. Patel.

“This collaboration helps ensure that the most promising ideas move efficiently from research to real-world care.”

FACT: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Care.

While NCI designation reflects the highest standards in cancer care and treatment, it is a multidisciplinary, teambased approach that truly shapes the patient experience. The Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton brings together a coordinated team of experts that includes medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, oncology nurses, nurse navigators, genetic counselors, nutritionists, social workers and supportive care experts working together to develop a personalized care plan for each patient. “We treat many types of cancer and bring together a team of experts who collaborate closely with each patient to develop a personalized, comprehensive plan of care and help patients and their families navigate every step of their cancer journey,” adds Dr. Patel.

“Another goal is to provide coordinated care that addresses not only the cancer itself but also the patient’s overall health, wellbeing and quality of life,” shares Dr. Patel. The RWJUH Hamilton Holistic Healing Program at the cancer center provides programs and services to patients and their families to support the mind, body and spirit, including art and music therapy, massage, Reiki, meditation, spiritual care, salon services, pet therapy, healing gardens and more. Learn more online at rwjbh.org/ hamiltonholistic.

FACT: What it Means for Patients. With over 1,500 cancer centers in the United States, only a select few — less than 60 — are comprehensive cancer centers designated by the National

New Jersey’s ONLY NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Rutgers Cancer Institute together with RWJBarnabas Health provide patients access to the most advanced cancer treatment options including complex surgical procedures, immunotherapy, precision medicine, bone marrow transplantation, proton therapy, CAR T-cell therapy, and clinical trials - many of which are not available at other facilities across the state. The Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton is located at 2575 Klockner Road, Hamilton Township, NJ, 08690.

Learn more at rwjbh.org/beatcancer

To schedule an appointment with one of our cancer specialists, please call (844) CANCERNJ or (844) 226-2376.

RWJUH Hamilton support groups this month

The following programs are sponsored by RWJUH Hamilton Community Education, open to all and all ages, and the Better Health Program, open to all 65+ years old. All programs take place at the Center for Health & Wellness located at RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Road, Hamilton unless otherwise noted. A full calendar of programs is online at rwjbh.org/hamiltonprograms. For for more information or to register, call 609584-5900 or email communityedham@ rwjbh.org. Registration is required to attend these programs.

TUESdAY, APRIL 7

Breast Cancer Support Group. 6–7:30 p.m. Presented by an oncology nurse navigator and certified oncology social worker from The Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton, this support group welcomes those who have received a breast cancer diagnosis in all phases of their journey, and offers participants an opportunity to share personal experiences, helpful resources, and methods of coping with feelings of anxiety and distress. Call 609.584.2836 to confirm.

Dr. Malini M. patel

Claiming Rights; and a Fond Farewell

HELEN KULL

EWING THEN & NOW

Last month’s column touched upon the injustices that plagued the Hopewell Valley and Central Jersey in the mid 1700’s. Let’s quickly recap:

Large swaths of land in Central Jersey had largely been “given” to the Coxe family in the late 1600s, as a gift from the British royal family. Through a variety of direct or indirect transactions, parcels were purchased by individuals and families seeking to thrive in this new British colony.

However, several generations of the Coxe family “changed the rules” and greedily sought to increase their power and wealth by claiming that those purchases of land were not true purchases, but purchases only of the right to use the land, not to own it. Additional fees and rents were charged to the surprised landowners, and evictions issued and enforced if the landowners did not pay. Surveyors were paid to provide inaccurate or fraudulent information on deeds. Class action lawsuits were brought against the Coxe family by many area landowners, but attempts to redress the claims in the courts usually failed due to the wealthy British appointees filling the courts. Protestations by the angry farmers and landowners were eventually met by laws outlawing assembly. It seemed that individual rights in Central Jersey were being trampled on.

The anger turned violent at times. Landowners were physically ejected from their homes and off their land, and “new” renters were attacked by the former owners. Individuals were jailed, and friends and neighbors of like mind sought to break the individuals out of jail. One member of the Coxe family was burned in effigy in the town square in Hopewell. But from the ashes and injustices of the era rose groups of individuals committed to supporting and protecting each other. Many members of the “founding” families in the area of Trenton Township and the Hopewell Valley became active members of these “Committees”: committees which worked together to seek justice, to redress perceived injustices, to represent their neighbors and needs in the provincial Assembly, to support property rights and rights of assembly.

The residents sought only to have their

rights as English citizens restored. But in the midst of pockets of violence and unrest, force was sometimes called upon: militia forces to be used upon the colonial residents, a militia comprised of their own fellow colonists.

Next month, we will explore aspects of these Committees and of the colonial militia and its evolution to becoming a significant force during the Revolution. ***

I wish to take a brief opportunity now to mention the passing of a former Ewing resident, Janet Gill Corbin, who passed on March 14th at her residence in Brick Township. I don’t ordinarily devote this column to obituaries, but sweet, gracious, delightful Janet passed at the incredible age of 109! I was most fortunate to chat with her last November.

Janet Gill was born in Ewing in February of 1917, and was baptized that summer at Ewing Presbyterian Church. She became a member of the congregation and taught Sunday School on and off throughout her life. She attended elementary school at Lanning School, graduated from Trenton High in 1934, and took courses in bookkeeping at Rider Business School in Trenton. She eventually was employed at Hill Refrigeration in Trenton, where she met Robert Corbin. They married at Ewing Church in 1943, and he eventually became a high-ranking executive officer of the Hill company.

Janet Corbin enjoyed many domestic skills, hobbies and crafts, and traveled extensively with her husband. She lived in Ewing through to the end of the 1990s, moving only to be with family in other locations in NJ after the passing of her husband. A grandmother and great grandmother, family was always central to her - and she to her family. All family members were located in New Jersey, and she saw them often.

Among NJ’s centenarians, she has been written about by several media sources. Asked her “secret” to long life, she was not sure whether it was her baptism with water from the River Jordan in 1917, or her habit of drinking a brandy “hot toddy” twice a week before retiring. Whatever it was, it resulted in a wise, alert, generous and gracious woman who lived a rich and full life - most of it right here in Ewing! Rest in peace, Mrs. Corbin.

Helen Kull is an Advisor with the Ewing Township Historic preservation Society.

Ewing Recreation

April 2026

Moody Park summer basketball league. The Moody Park Summer Basketball League is accepting registration for boys currently in third through 10th grade. The registration deadline is May 21. The season begins Monday, June 8. For more information, visit moodyparkbb.com. Register at ewingnj. org/RecRegistration.

Summer camps. Registration is open for summer camps. Register and pay by April 10 to receive a 7% discount. The Ewing Recreation Summer Camp will run June 29 through Aug. 21 for grades one through six and will be held at the Ewing Senior and Community Center, with Fisher Middle School serving as the rain location. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Early care is available from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., and extended care is available from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Teen Travel is for grades seven through nine and will run June 29 through Aug. 14. Campers may participate in day camp during weeks when Teen Travel is not in session. Register at ewingnj.org/RecRegistration.

Pools. The Ewing Community Pools System offers two pools for seasonal members and daily patrons. Hollowbrook Pool, 320 Hollowbrook Drive, is scheduled to open weekends and Memorial Day weekend beginning Saturday, May 23. Saturdays are reserved for private parties from 1 to 5 p.m. and open to the public from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday through Friday hours are noon to 8 p.m. Email Raquel at [rince@ewingnj.org](mailto:rince@ewingnj.org) to schedule an event. The ESCC pool will also open weekends and Memorial Day weekend beginning Saturday, May 23. Both pools will open full time Monday, June 16, from noon to 8 p.m. Swim lesson evaluations will be held Saturday, June 13, and space is limited. Senior swim and senior water aerobics will begin Monday, June 16. Seniors must register through the Senior Office for these programs. Register online at ewingnj.org/RecRegistration.

Basketball camp. The Ewing Recreation Shelly Dearden Basketball Camp will be held at Ewing High School from Monday, June 22, through Friday, June 26, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The camp is for students in grades four through eight and will be directed by Ewing High School boys head coach Paul Jones and former head coach Shelly Dearden, along with staff members and players. Daily sessions will include individual skills work, drills, 3-on-3 and full-court games, competitions, prizes, guest speakers and endof-camp championships. The cost is $95 and includes a camp shirt. Register at ewingnj.org/ RecRegistration.

Picnic area permits. The Ewing Recreation Department is accepting applications for picnic area permits beginning March 2 at the following parks: John Watson Park on Upper Ferry Road, Higgs Park on Summerset Street, and Betor Park behind the municipal building. Email Nancy at [npappano@ewingnj.org](mailto:npappano@ ewingnj.org) or contact the office for more information or to reserve a date.

Chess club. Ewing Recreation hosts a chess club that meets Wednesday evenings at St. Luke’s Church on Prospect Street. Play runs from 6 to 10 p.m. Participants are welcome to attend or email Bong at [bongortiz@yahoo.com] (mailto:bongortiz@yahoo.com).

Information. The Hollowbrook Community Center, 320 Hollowbrook Drive, has rooms available for rent for small groups and large parties. Kitchen facilities are available. Call 609-883-1199 to reserve space. For more information on programs, contact the office at 609-883-1776 or visit ewingnj.org/communityaffairs. Online registration is available at ewingnj.org/RecRegistration. The Ewing Recreation column is paid content provided by Ewing Township.

Friends of the Ewing Library

Supporting the Ewing Branch of the Mercer County Library 61 Scotch Road, near Parkway Avenue (609) 882-3130

Spring Fling Book Sale to benefit the Ewing Library

APRIL 24 – 26, 2026

Thursday, April 24, 11:am – 2:pm

•(No Scanners for the Morning Hours) and 4:00 pm – 7:30 pm Friday, April 25, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm Saturday, April 26, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm

Bag Sale of Leftovers on Saturday-a grocery bag full for only $5.00 (We supply the bags)

Fiction & Non-fiction...Children’s & Young Adult …Teacher’s Materials & Media...DVDs &

Senior Corner

April 2026

ALL PROGRAMS HELD AT HOLLOWBROOK COMMUNITY CENTER, 320 HOLLOWBROOK DRIVE

MONDAYS

10 a.m. Exercise - Karen Martin

1 p.m. Jewelry/Craft -Anne’s

1 p.m. Mexican Train

TUESDAYS

10 a.m. Exercise - Karen Martin

12:30 p.m. Bible Study

12:30 p.m. Bingo

WEDNESDAYS

9:30 a.m. Knitting/Crochet

10 a.m. Chair Fitness – JoAnna Hopkins

10:30 a.m. Water Color - Ally Lyons Mercer County Library – Ewing Branch

1 p.m. 5-Crown Cards

1 p.m. Chair Yoga – Gioia Fumo-Miranda

2 p.m. Mahjongg – Christine Kamph

THURSDAYS

10 a.m. Exercise - Karen Martin

1 p.m. Pinochle - Mercer County Library - Ewing Branch

1 p.m. Rummikub

1 p.m. Balance Class - Bob Kirby

1 p.m. Bid Whist

FRIDAYS

9:30 a.m. Line Dancing – Joanne Keephart

SENIOR CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMISSION (SCAC):

Third Thursday of the month. General Body 10 a.m. — Meeting is open to the public.

SOCIAL CLUBS: (All held in Room #201-202)

Live Wires—11 a.m. ( 2nd Thursday of the month)

Busy C’s—11 a.m. ( 3rd Tuesday of the month) Club D—11 a.m. (1st Thursday of the month)

HB Seniors—1 p.m. (2nd Friday of the month)

TAX TIME: Tax help is available at several MCLS– branches by appointments. Visit mcl.org/services/tax-assistance for more information or call Hollowbrook branch 609-883-5914.

MEDICARE PATROL: Workshop protecting yourself against financial and healthcare fraud Friday, April 24, 1 p.m. Register in the Senior office.

MAHJONGG: Learn to play mahjongg six week beginners class starts 3/18-4/22, Wednesday’s 2-4 p.m.

SENIOR LUNCHEON PROGRAM: Hollowbrook Community Center. Friday, April 17, Noon-2 p.m. TalentedJoe Grillo also known as “Jo Blo.” He makes the party! $ 9 pp/ $ 14 couple / $ 11 non resident.

Mercer County Nutrition: Seniors 60 and older or anyone married to a person 60 and older is welcome to participate in the nutrition program. The program is located at Hollowbrook Community Center. A person is asked to donate a $1. Your donation is confidential. A delicious balance meal is served. REGISTER FOR ALL PROGRAMS AGES 60 AND OLDER EWING RESIDENT S: HOLLOWBROOK COMMUNITY CENTER

2nd Floor Rm# 207 Senior Office, QUESTIONS: 609-883-1776

Senior Corner is paid content by Ewing Township

My love for music

DONNIE BLACK

BETTING ON BLACK

I’m not sure I could go a day without listening to music. I don’t just mean a song or two, but hours of music. What kind of music, you ask? Name it — I probably have it on my playlist.

Growing up, my mom and dad constantly had music playing in the house. Their favorite band was The Beach Boys, and I can still recite the entire *Pet Sounds* album by heart. My brother and I would hear a lot of The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, and The Who as well.

That was usually during the winter months. When the summer came, the tempo of the music sped up. The Beach Boys were a staple, but “The Boss,” Bruce Springsteen, was my mom’s absolute favorite. I think she truly believed Bruce was talking about her when he released “Jersey Girl.” I’m not sure she realized it was a Tom Waits cover, but let’s let her have her moment.

My dad loved Motown, so The Temptations, The Spinners, and The Drifters were in heavy rotation on the record player. My grandparents lived directly across the street from us, and my grandma was 100% Italian, so you know Sinatra was playing throughout her house. Sprinkle in some Dean Martin, Frankie Valli, Perry Como, and, of course, Andrea Bocelli.

From that point on, hip-hop was it for me.

A few years passed, and I had a sleepover at my best friend Karl’s house. He put me onto these rock bands that he loved called Nirvana, Metallica, and Stone Temple Pilots. It was a sound I’d never heard before, and I was hooked.

Fast forward a few years later — probably around 1996. My brother had just gotten a girlfriend, so he was never home, but I was, and so were my parents. I was watching TGIF and wanted to jam out to music, but I only had a Walkman. I would sneak into my brother’s room to listen to his stereo system.

My parents finally got me a stereo system, but the one I got was a little different. This one could record my voice onto a cassette tape.

Plot twist!

I loved listening to the DJs on Q102 and PST when they broadcast from clubs, played dance music, and interacted with the patrons. So, at 11 years old, I started recording songs from the radio onto a blank cassette tape. I sat in my room, acted like a radio DJ, and intro’d each song while giving away fake concert tickets to callers.

The callers to my fake radio station were me and my soccer teammate Shawn, disguising our voices so we could create a cool radio show. Our show consisted of a lot of ’90s hip-hop like Mase, Total, SWV, and 112.

My music taste has been a roller coaster in my lifetime.

My grandfather was Irish, and he respected his wife’s Italian roots, but he was a country boy at heart. Kenny Rogers, Johnny Cash, and Glen Campbell were his go-tos. My grandparents’ music interests seemed very different, but together they listened to the same radio station all day long. It was an AM station called WBUD, based out of Ewing, and it played “Great Gold Radio.” This is where I was introduced to two of my favorite artists: Sam Cooke and Otis Redding.

Let’s go back across the street to my parents’ house. Theresa Street was a cutthrough street between Pennington Road and Lower Ferry Road, so let’s look both ways while we cross together.

In 1991, I was 6 years old and my brother was 10, and he started to listen to his own music. A very thin wall separated our rooms, and he happened to get a boombox for Christmas. He blasted Run-DMC, LL Cool J, Naughty by Nature, and Rakim throughout the house. My parents didn’t care, as long as the cassette case didn’t have the sticker on the bottom that said “Explicit Lyrics.”

In high school, my music taste became even more eclectic, listening to not only rap and R&B but also punk rock and reggaeton. I moved on to college in Delaware and made friends with a bunch of guys who only listened to country. We rented a house together, and for three years, Toby Keith, Tim McGraw, and Kenny Chesney were all I heard for six semesters — and I hated it.

Post-college, one of my good buddies, Chris Messick, schooled me in country music and showed me artists he thought I would like. Well, it worked. Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, and Eric Church were just a couple of his choices.

Around the same time, I met my nowwife, Michelle, and she furthered my love for country music.

From The Beach Boys to Bruce to Boyz II Men to Bob Marley to Luke Bryan — I love this thing they call music.

donnie Black was born and grew up in Ewing Township. He currently works at radio station XTU in philadelphia as a producer, on air personality and promotions director.

cLASSIfIED

HELP WANTED

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SERVICES

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LEGAL SERVICES Wills, Power of Attorney, Real Estate, Federal and NJ Taxes, Education Law. House calls available. Bruce Cooke, Esq. 609-7994674, 609-721-4358.

Volunteer Opportunities - Volunteers wanted to help combat senior hunger and isolation in our community by delivering hot meals. Routes available Monday to Friday, starting at 10am. Perfect for individuals, families, groups. Call Meals on Wheels of Mercer County to learn more (609)695-3483.

MUSICAL Instruments

I Buy Guitars All Musical Instruments in Any Condition: Call Rob at 609-577-3337.

WANTED TO BUY

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: 609-6582996, E-mail: lenny1944x@gmail.com

Cash paid for SELMER SAXOPHONES and other vintage models.609-658-2996 or e-mail lenny1944x@gmail.com

HAPPY HEROES used books looking to buy old Mysteries, Science Fiction, kids series books ( old Hardy boys-Nancy Drew-etc WITH DUSTJACKETS in good shape), Dell Mapbacks - PULP magazines , old role playing stuff, good conditioned pre 1975 paperbacks old COLLIER’S magazine. Call 609-619-3480 or email happyheroes@gmail.com .