Hamilton
Local comic named ‘America’s Funniest’
Audience votes
Dan Regan top dog on reboot of classic TV show
BY JOE EMANSKI
For a stand-up comedian, an opportunity to do a few minutes of a routine on national television can be the break of a lifetime.
Many toil for years traveling from small venue to small venue, telling jokes and hoping to be given a shot on a bigger stage. And when that shot comes, they can only hope to make the most of it.
Lifelong Hamilton resident Dan Regan is one such comedian. Regan has been at it for 25 years, although in recent years, he has switched his focus from live audiences in regional comedy clubs to doing bits on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
It was because of Regan’s social media presence that he got a call last year from a television producer who was looking
See FUNNIEST, Page 12
tonHamilton Post
Steinert softball players rush out to celebrate with junior Ellie
as she crosses the plate with the winning run as
Randolph, 3-2, in the state
Hill Park in Newark. Steinert trailed 2-0 going into the bottom of the 7th. (Photo by Amanda Ruch.)
Storybook ending as Steinert softball wins state title again
BY RICH FISHER
In what could safely be called an environment of unbridled frenzy, two people managed to keep cool within it all.
Steinert’s softball team was on the verge of making history as Ellie Miller stood on second base, Bianca Walsh clung to first and Addison Hassan was at bat. There was one out in the bottom
of the seventh of a 2-2 game with Randolph that would decide the NJSIAA Group III state champion.
The angst running through the crowd at Ivy Hill Park was of epic proportions. Both dugouts were squirming and screaming simultaneously. The Spartans had just scored two runs and had all the momentum before Hassan fell behind on the count
0-2.
Unknown to many, a few minutes earlier in the dugout assistant coach Carli Backlund heard Hassan say to her teammates: ‘I got this girls.’
She had one strike left to prove it.
“She stepped out of the box and she was getting all into it,” head coach Jenn Melker said.
See CHAMPS, Page 22
BY JOE EMANSKI
Once again, Hamilton Township’s three public high schools have recognized their top 10 graduating seniors for the school year just completed. And as it does every year, the Hamilton Post is here to celebrate the academic achievements of these stellar students. This year, the district has provided only the students names with their future college choices and prospective major areas of study. No GPAs or class ranks were provided.
One noteworthy trend among this year’s top graduates is a return, at least a little bit, toward liberal arts as a course of study. In recent years, relatively few students have chosen majors such as psychology or literature. But there are a few this year.
Another trend, and a welcome one, is students choosing health science majors including neuroscience and nursing. With the challenges that health-care professionals have dealt with in the post-Covid world, it is heart-
See TOP 10, Page 8
Miller
Steinert defeated
championship game at Ivy
RWJUH Hamilton July Healthy Living / Community Education Programs
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP
Wednesday, July 2; 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
CARING FOR LOVED ONES WITH CHRONIC CONDITIONS
Mondays, July 7 & 21; 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
ADULT CHILDREN CARING FOR PARENTS
Mondays, July 7 & 21; 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
LETTING GO OF CLUTTER
Tuesday, July 8; 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP
Wednesday, July 16; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
COLON HEALTH LECTURE AND TAKE-HOME SCREENING KIT
Monday, July 7; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Learn about colon health, ways to help mitigate your risk and receive a colon cancer screening test kit to take at home and mail back.
WII GAMES
Monday, July 7; 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Friday, July 25; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Join RWJ Rehabilitation, RWJUH Hamilton, for this fun hour of Wii games and learn about safe mechanics. Mastering body movement is the key to safe living. Move like a pro and stay in the game longer!
BARIATRIC WEIGHT LOSS SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, July 8; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
If you are considering surgery, are in the process of preparing for have undergone surgery, you are welcome to attend our group. Family, friends and support persons are also welcome. This is a great opportunity to meet others going through
YOGA CLASSES
Tuesday, July 1 & 15; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
the same weight loss journey. We focus on achieving optimal wellness through weight loss surgery. We will discuss different topics on nutrition, exercise and healthy living behaviors.
INTRODUCING NEW TECHNOLOGY IN HEARING AIDS
Wednesday, July 9, 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Join Lorraine Sgarlato, AuD, from the Balance and Hearing Center, and learn about the world’s first hearing aid with a multi-stream architecture allowing users to hear multiple speakers in real-time while reducing background noise. With the longest lasting rechargeable batteries for hearing aids on the market you can enjoy 54 hours of listening before needing to charge again.
GUIDED MEDITATION AND SOUND BOWL HEALING
Wednesday, July 9; 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Crystal sound bowls can ease your stress while guided meditation relaxes your body, putting you in a restful state of mind. Fee: $15
THE POWER OF FOOD: NUTRITION STRATEGIES FOR DIABETES
Monday, July 14; 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Tuesday, July 22; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Join 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.
PARENT ZEN
Monday, July 14; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
This program- aims to provide much needed support and community connection for parents. Drawing from personal experiences, Parent Zen offers guidance, relaxation, and connection to help parents navigate the challenges of parenthood.
PREVENTING GOLF INJURIES
Monday, July 14; 6:00 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.
Preventing golf injuries start with proper warm-ups and good swing mechanics. Learn how strength and flexibility will help you stay pain free.
PREDIABETES CONNECT GROUP
Tuesday, July 15; 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.
GYNECOLOGICAL CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, July 15; 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
This group brings individuals with gynecologic cancer the support, education, and empowerment they need to move along the path to recovery. Topics discussed include coping with the emotional impact of cancer, adjusting to changes during and after treatment, and managing concerns about recurrence. For more information or to register, call 609-584-6680. This program takes place at The Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton.
MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS
Wednesday, July 16; 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m.
Learn how to help heal your body and
relax your busy mind.
EMPOWER YOUR TEEN’S VOICE AND STRENGTHEN YOUR CONNECTION
Wednesday, July 16; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
TeenSpeak is a series designed for anyone parenting or supporting a teen. Through this transformative approach, families learn to navigate the teenage years together while empowering adolescents to make safer, more informed decisions as they transition into adulthood.
STROKE SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, July 22; 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
A place for survivors and caregivers to build a community through shared personal experiences, feelings, and recovery strategies on managing life after a stroke. Join the RWJ Rehab team, Ashley Sarrol, Speech-Language Pathologist, & Allyson PanikowskiBerry, Occupational Therapist. Survivors and care partners at any stage of recovery are encouraged to attend.
WOMEN’S BOOK CLUB: I KNOW WHY THE CAGED BIRD SINGS BY MAYA ANGELOU
Wednesday, July 23; 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
REIKI SHARE
Wednesday, July 23; 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
For folks who have been Reiki certified (at any level) to come share the gift with fellow practitioners. Give a session, get a session.
WISE WOMAN DISCUSSION GROUP: CHANGING ROLES IN THE FAMILY
Thursday, July 24; 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Join us for our monthly discussion group. This month’s theme is changing roles in the family.
FEED YOUR HEART: COOKING FOR HEART HEALTH
Monday, July 28; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Join our bimonthly heart-healthy cooking class. Have some fun learning how to cook nutritious and delicious heart-healthy meals. Explore heartfriendly ingredients and cooking techniques.
MONTHLY
HEARING / BALANCE SCREENINGS
Wednesday, July 30; 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Join us for this gentle yoga class using traditional postures and breathing techniques. Pose modifications will be offered so that you can confidently participate. Beginners welcome. Registration is required.
MEDITATION CLASSES
Tuesday, July 1 & 15; 11:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Join us for a meditation class that will focus on reducing stress and achieving inner peace. Learn how easy it is to practice meditation whenever you need it most. Beginners welcome.
CHAIR YOGA
Tuesday, July 1 & 15; 12:00 p.m. - 12:45 p.m.
Using a chair for seated poses and also for balancing poses, this class is perfect for those who may not have moved their bodies for a while, are recovering from an injury, or have mobility/balancing difficulties. A great place to start practicing yoga to help boost your flexibility, find inner peace, unwind and stretch.
A SOCIAL HOUR ESPECIALLY FOR SENIORS
Wednesday, July 9, 16, 23, & 30; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Don’t miss an opportunity to participate in life-changing conversations, listening, learning, and exploring for this time in our lives. Every week is new and something different. Join us on all the dates, two, or even one. It’s your choice. New members are always welcome.
TAI CHI
Tuesday, July 10, & 24; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Tai Chi is recommended for seniors because it improves balance, strengthens muscles in the legs, and increases flexibility and stability in the ankles. It can also help reduce falls and back pain. Beginners welcome.
GAME TIME!
Friday, July 11 & 25; 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
VIP’s 65+
Have some fun while learning recipes that can help fuel your brain Better Health is a free program for
Join us for good wholesome fun – let’s play a game! Sharpen your skills or jump back into something you always enjoyed. Snacks and a variety of board games will be available, or you are welcome to bring your own. A great way to meet new friends!
Please come prepared to discuss this classic coming of age story that illustrates how strength of character and love of literature can help overcome racism and trauma. Scan QR code to
A BETTER HEALTH PROGRAM: GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE MANDALA WORKSHOP, RWJUH HAMILTON
Wednesday, July 16; 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 17; 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Join us for a Mandala Workshop, where art meets meditation! This hands-on session will guide you through the process of creating beautiful, intricate mandalas—a powerful tool for relaxation, selfexpression, and mindfulness. Location: Grounds for Sculpture, 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton, NJ 08619
NOURISH YOUR BRAIN: COOKING FOR BRAIN HEALTH
Friday, July 18; 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
FREE screenings the last Wednesday of every month! These 15-minute appointments are designed to help assess one’s hearing health and/or balance health/fall risk. The program is held at the RWJ Balance & Hearing Center, 2 Hamilton Health Pl, Hamilton Township, NJ. To book an individual personal screening time, call 609245-7390.
TO BECOME A BETTER HEALTH MEMBER FOR FREE SCAN THIS QR CODE
*All programs require registration and are held at the RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd., Hamilton, NJ, unless otherwise noted.
iNBOX
The importance of giving back
I am a Boy Scout from Troop 91 Hamilton. I wanted to take a moment to share how proud I am of the efforts our community has made to improve Veterans Park. Each year, my troop takes on a rewarding volunteer project at the park, where we joyfully spread fresh mulch and paint the dragon teeth in the parking lot. It’s a fun and meaningful way to help keep the park looking great and ensure it remains a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy.
Mulching the park is especially important, because it not only improves the park’s appearance, but it also helps to make sure it looks its best when we host events like Armed Forces Day and Oktoberfest. These occasions are a time for the community to come together and honor our veterans, and we want the park to reflect that same sense of respect and pride.
I’m grateful to be part of a community that values the service of men and women and takes the time to give back. I hope others can see the positive impact of such projects and be inspired to get involved in their own way.
I look forward to more community efforts that make Hamilton an even better place to live.
Hamilton Post
We are a newsroom of your neighbors. The Hamilton Post is for local people, by local people. As part of the community, the Gazette does more than just report the news—it connects businesses with their customers, organizations with their members and neighbors with one another. As such, our staff sets out to make our town a closer place by giving readers a reliable source to turn to when they want to know what’s going on in their neighborhood.
edITOR
Joe Emanski (Ext. 120)
COnTRIBuTInG WRITeR
Rich Fisher
COnTRIBuTInG COluMnIsTs
Peter Dabbene, Thomas Kelly
ad layOuT & PROduCTIOn
Stacey Micallef (Ext. 131)
senIOR aCCOunT eXeCuTIVe
Jennifer Steffen (Ext. 113)
Community news service 9 Princess Road, Suite M Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
Phone: (609) 396-1511
news: news@communitynews.org
events: events@communitynews.org
sports: sports@communitynews.org letters: jemanski@communitynews.org
Website: communitynews.org Facebook: facebook.com/CommunityNewsService
X: x.com/_CommunityNews_
40,000 copies of the Hamilton Post are mailed or bulk-distributed to the residences and businesses of Hamilton 12 times a year.
TO adVeRTIse call (609) 396-1511, ext. 113 or e-mail advertise@communitynews.org
Liam Catalfomo BSA Troop 91, Hamilton
Boy Scouts from Hamilton Troop 91 mulch a tree in Veterans Park.
Fireworks, concerts to mark Independence Day 2025 AROUND TOWN
Fireworks extravaganzas are a Fourth of July tradition, and Central Jersey residents will have choice of several dates and venues when they plan their Independence Day celebrations.
Hamilton Township is set to host its annual concert and fireworks show on Tuesday, July 1 at Veterans Park. Festivities are set to kick off at 6 p.m. with live music, eats and treats from more than a dozen locally based food trucks and food stands.
Musical entertainment will be courtesy of The Heartbeats. The fireworks show is set to start sometime around 9:30 p.m. As usual, the show will take place on the Kuser Road side of the park. Rain date is Wednesday, July 2.
Also set for a July 1 celebration is Lawrence Township, which hosts its annual show at Rider University on Lawrenceville Road. Festivities are set to kick off at 6 p.m. with live music, face painting, a bubble show and food trucks. Fireworks are
scheduled to start around 9:30. Like Hamilton, Lawrence has set a rain date of July 2.
Ewing Township is set to host its fireworks celebration on Thursday, July 3 at Green Park, near the campus of The College of New Jersey.
Ewing plans to have food trucks, a live DJ and a kids’ zone. Fireworks are scheduled to begin at dusk. Parking will be available at TCNJ, Armstrong Park and Antheil School.
Bordentown is likewise preparing to host its Independence Day celebration on July 3 at Joseph Lawrence Park. Things are set to begin at 4:30 p.m. with food trucks, a DJ and a kids’ corner. The fireworks show is scheduled to start at dusk. 317 Ward Ave., Bordentown.
There will also be fireworks on Friday, July 4 at the L.E.A.D. Fest State Fair in Mercer County Park in West Windsor. Admission to the fair is required for the best seats. Web: theleadfest.com.
See NEWS, Page 7
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Come celebrate our 50 anniversary with fun and free activities th SATURDAY 1:00PM-3:00PM 12 JULY
Come celebrate our 50 anniversary with fun and free activities including face painting, magic show, balloon animals, and more. th Feeling hungry? Food trucks will be on- site! SATURDAY 1:00PM-3:00PM 12 JULY
The library parking lot will be closed, but parking will be available next door at the police station.
The library parking lot will be closed, but parking will be available next door at the police station.
Opa Greek Restaurant celebrates a year in
Opa Greek Restaurant in Deerpath Pavilion are chef/owner George Vasilarakis, Despina Vasilarakis and friends Marika Fernandez, Sandy Koukousas and Malvina Tsilimentos.
Blo Out Lounge and Colour Bar wins award for Salon Culture
Blo Out Lounge and Colour Bar has been honored for the second year in a row in the Salon Today 200, a competition for salon business excellence in North America, in the Salon Culture category.
Salon Today writes of the winners of the Salon Culture category: “Although invisible, salon culture is that tangible energy that binds and propels a team, attracts clients and forges a brand. A strong culture is hard to define and even more difficult to build, but when a salon or barbershop masters this task, they are unstoppable.”
Caterina Young, founder of Blo Out Lounge and Colour Bar, said she and her staff are honored to be recognized again for their salon culture. “Our lounge culture is the heart of everything we do,” she said. “It’s the invisible thread that connects our team, drives our passion and defines our brand. This recognition is directly because of the hard work and dedication of every member of our team, and we are excited to continue building on this foundation of excellence.”
Salon Today’s Salon Today 200 awards are in their 28th year. The awards set out to highlights the efforts of salon owners and their teams in creating thriving businesses.
Web: blooutloungeandcolourbar.com.
SERV celebrates grand opening of new HQ
Regina Widdows, president and CEO of SERV Behavioral Health System, was joined by Hamilton Councilman Anthony Carabelli, Jr., on May 22 to celebrate the grand opening of their new corporate
headquarters at 3 AAA Drive in Hamilton.
Nearly 100 guests, including SERV Behavioral Health System team members, board members, partners, and local leaders, attended.
The new corporate campus, set on nearly seven acres, features a three-season outdoor pavilion, a walking trail, outdoor fitness areas, and an inclusive playground, all of which are designed to emphasize wellness, accessibility and community.
The location is intended to provide a central hub for operations that will serve both staff and the individuals and families they support throughout New Jersey.
SERV Behavioral Health System, Inc. is a private, statewide, not-for-profit, behavioral healthcare organization serving adults and children working to recover from serious mental illness or cope with a developmental disability.
Web: servbhs.com.
Patel Brothers celebrates grand opening of new Hamilton location
Mayor Jeff Martin and Assemblywoman Tennille McCoy were present in May to welcome Patel Brothers with a ribbon-cutting ceremony of their newest location at The Court at Hamilton Station Shopping Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Road in Hamilton.
What began in 1974 as a dream shared by two brothers has grown into the largest Indian grocery chain in the United States. Patel Brothers offering authentic Indian groceries and cultural products.
“We are proud to welcome Patel Brothers to Hamilton,” said Martin. “Their presence not only strengthens our local economy, but also adds to the cultural richness of our community.”
Web: patelbros.com.
TOP 10 continued from Page 1
ening to see that our young people are still excited by the prospect of making a career out of caring for people and helping them be healthy.
Of the 30 students in Hamilton’s three public high school top 10s, fully two thirds are set to continue their education in their home state. Five have made plans to attend The College of New Jersey, five are committed to Rutgers University, and three have chosen to attend Monmouth University. All 30 have chosen to remain on the East Coast.
Hamilton High West
Hamilton High’s top 10 graduates have nearly all chosen to stay in New Jersey for
their post-high school studies.
Justin Elias and Anoop Singh are both set to attend TCNJ, where Elias hopes to major in biochemistry and Singh in music education.
Marcos Jimenez has chosen to attend Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken for college, with a future course of study of electrical engineering. Carissa Scelza also plans to major in engineering, but mechanical engineering in her case. She is preparing to attend Rowan University in Glassboro.
Isabelle Kuchie is headed to Kean University to study graphic design, and Jordon Moss to Monmouth University to major in nursing. Jaela Rivera also intends to study nursing at Monmouth.
The top 10 graduating seniors of the Hamilton High West Class of 2025: (front row) Gina Wong, Kayla Vo, Sabria Spell, Jaela Rivera, Isabelle Kuchie, Jordan Moss and (back row) Carissa Scelza, Anoop Singh, Justin Elias and Marcos Jimenez. (Photo by Laura Geltch/Hamilton Township School District.)
The top 10 graduating seniors of the Nottingham High School Class of 2025: (front row) Solmari Colon, Maria Del Sol Colon, Ava Longo, Catalina Holliday, Alessandra Sessoms and (back row) Hank Marinelli, Noah Federovich, Nkemakolam Uduma, Logan Mcguire and Luciano LaMorte. (Photo by Laura Geltch/Hamilton Township School District.)
Kayla Vo plans to study biology at Rutgers University, and Gina Wong is looking to major in chemistry at Princeton University. Sabria Spell has not decided on a major yet, but plans to attend Vargas University.
Nottingham High School
Nottingham High School’s top 10 students have chosen seven different majors among them.
Top 10 students Maria Del Sol Colon See TOP 10, Page 11
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7/3 LIVERPOOL LEGENDS BEATLES EXPERIENCE @ 7:30pm
7/4 PURE PETTY BAND @6pm
7/5 TYLER AND BRITTANY @ 3pm VEGAS MCGRAW @ 7pm
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TOP 10 continued from Page 9
and Solmari Colon are both set to attend The College of New Jersey to study nursing.
Noah Federovich has selected Purdue University in Indiana, where he plans to study computer engineering. Catalina Holliday plans to study neuroscience at Columbia University in New York City.
Ava Longo and Nkemakolam Uduma are both headed to Rutgers University in the fall. Longo plans to study criminal justice and pre-law. Uduma is set to major in nursing.
Hank Marinelli is committed to Williams College to study chemistry. Logan McGuire has chosen Monmouth University, with criminal justice a focus of study. And Alessandra Sessoms has made plans to attend the University of Richmond, in Virginia, where she will study nursing.
Luciano LaMorte is headed to Stockton University to major in English literature.
Steinert High School
Three of the top 10 graduating seniors at Steinert High School are preparing to study biology at the next level: Kaileigh Brady at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Olivia Cerullo at High Point University in North Carolina, and Gianna McClure at the University of Delaware.
Giovanni Conte plans to attend TCNJ in the fall, majoring in accounting. Gavin Giallella plans to attend Penn State University. Taylor Seeley and Sophie Smith both plan to major in psychology — Seeley at Kean University, and Smith at Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
The other three members of Steinert’s
top 10 have all selected Rutgers University as their scholastic home for the next four years.
Kristen Taylor is planning to major in business analytics. Samuel Urban and Ethan Zimmerman are both prospective engineering majors at the state university.
The Hamilton Post wishes these graduates, and all other members of the Class of 25, the best of luck in their futures, whether they plan to enter college or the workforce.
3 Hamilton seniors named Unsung Heroes
Three high school seniors in the Hamilton Township School District have received 2025 Unsung Hero awards from the New Jersey School Boards Association and the Mercer County School Board.
Hamilton High School West senior Andrew Fass, Nottingham High School senior La’Nai Odom and Steinert High School senior Alberto Garcia received the awards, which are given each year to students from each of Mercer County’s high schools.
The students receiving the awards have been identified as students who “make outstanding contributions to their schools and communities, but are often overlooked by other traditional student recognition programs.”
“Andrew, La’Nai, and Alberto are outstanding examples of HTSD students who work hard, get involved, and make our schools better places for all students. I am proud of each of them for what they have done to receive this recognition,” said Scott Rocco, superintendent of schools.
Steinert High School Top 10 graduating seniors of the Class of 2025: (front row) Olivia Cerullo, Gianna McClure, Kaileigh Brady, Taylor Seeley, Kristen Taylor and (back row) Giovanni Conte, Sophie Smith, Gavin Giallella, Ethan Zimmerman and Samuel Urban. (Photo by Laura Geltch/Hamilton Township School District.)
to reboot a television show that last had a run in the early 1990’s: “America’s Funniest People.”
The original show aired from 1990 to 1994 and was itself a spin-off of the then-popular “America’s Funniest Home Videos.”
The producer wanted Regan to be a part of the revival of the show, which would be hosted by Alyson Hannigan and Alfonso Ribeiro.
“They reached out to me last September, one of the producers emailed me and said that they found one of my videos, said they’re interested in using it for their show. I said sure.”
While some performers would be asked to go into the studio to perform, Regan’s contribution would come in the form of one of his social media videos.
The show was recorded in November, with two winners being named: one for instudio performances, and one for being the best among the video performers.
The great news in November was when it came time for the audience to vote for a winner, they chose Regan won for best video bit. The award came with $5,000.
The not-so-great news? He was contractually obligated not tell a soul until the show aired — at some then-indeterminate time in the future.
Regan finally got word that the show would air on June 15. Only then could he share the fact that he had won with the world. “I never had to do something like that — sit on big news for so long, especially when the outcome was what it was,” he says.
One of the hallmarks of Regan’s comedy is his deadpan style of delivery. He recalls the producers telling him during taping of the show that he needed to smile more.
was a
They did not have to give him any instructions, however, when he was announced as the winner. “When I won, that was a real smile, because that was a shock,” he says.
He feels that it would have been a great experience whether he won or not. “I was just happy that they asked me,” he says. “It was the biggest break in my comedy career yet, because it’s national TV. I was just happy to be on the show. For the outcome to be what it was, it was just that much greater.”
Regan says he did stand-up for the first time when he was 12 years old. It was an impromptu gig — at a dinner celebration for his grandfather.
“They had a band on stage and when they took a break, I went up there and I told some Joan Rivers jokes,” he says. “I’m up there telling these dirty jokes, I didn’t even understand them, but that was the first time I did anything like that.”
Comedian Dan Regan
winner on the June revival of “America’s Funniest People,” a TV show broadcast on ABC.
Then around 25 years ago, some of his friends encouraged him to give live comedy a go. “My buddies were always telling me, ‘You tell a good story, you should try stand-up,’” he says.
He went to an open mic session at The Laff House, a former comedy venue on South Street in Philadelphia. He brought five minutes of material, jokes that he had told over the years, but got only three minutes on stage to perform. His friends and family went to give him support.
“After I got off stage, a promoter approached me and said, ‘How long have you been doing stand-up?’ I said, ‘This is the first time.’ He booked me for a show and the rest is history, I guess.”
He says the deadpan delivery style came to him naturally. “I guess if you know me in person, I’ve always told jokes seriously, I’ve never laughed at them. I tried telling jokes and being jovial and it didn’t feel natural. That’s just not me.”
He got a job at one point working for a company that would add jokes to people’s speeches or spiels. He credits that job with raising his awareness of current events and topical comedy — some things that he typically works into his routines today.
He says he tends to stay away from controversial material. “I want to talk about things where, if you’re listening, you’re
like, ‘Yes, that happened to me.’ Relatable stuff. That’s the kind of comedy I enjoy,” he says.
A lot of his material consists of him as a member of Generation X reminiscing about things people his age can relate to.
Regan is a 1989 graduate of Steinert High School.
“I do a lot of marriage material. Every day stuff,” he says. “If you’re listening in the car, something that can give you a smile and a core memory kind of thing.”
Wife Debbie is his number one fan, he says. “She’s my biggest supporter and she’ll also tell me when a joke is not good or she doesn’t like it, which I appreciate,” he says. “She doesn’t tell me it’s funny when it’s not. Her sarcasm is on a level with mine, which is great. She makes me laugh all the time.”
Regan has embraced social media as a way to reach fans. He has 174,000 followers on Instagram, 235,000 on Facebook and 92,100 on TikTok, and says that has been his primary creative outlet in recent years. “As I get older, I guess this is more comfortable for me,” he says. “I can reach a much bigger audience from my house.”
That could change as word gets out about “America’s Funniest People.”
“I have received a few emails that I am looking into,” he says. “Hopefully, this will open some doors.
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‘Because Your Mine’: Bringing country music love stories to life
By JOe eMansKI
Broadway performers work in a relatively small circle of professionals. If you are on the scene for any length of time, chances are that you will cross paths with some of your fellow artists on multiple occasions.
Matt Cusack and Allison Kelly were already acquainted when they were both cast in a stage show, “Ring of Fire,” about the music of Johnny Cash. They had worked together previously doing a concert of Peter, Paul and Mary songs.
They realized while doing “Ring of Fire” that they enjoyed working and making music together. So the Brooklyn residents formed a “country and swing” band called New Ohio, performing both covers and original songs live on stages from New York to Nashville.
Their latest project is called “Because Your Mine,” which they bill as “a celebration of the great loves and love songs of country music.” The interactive concert is set for two nights at Passage Theatre in Trenton, Aug. 1 and 2 at 7 p.m. both nights.
The hourlong show will feature the music not only of Johnny Cash and June Carter but also George Jones and Tammy
Allison Kelly and Matt Cusack will be at Passage Theatre Aug. 1-2.
Wynette, Conway Twitty and Loretta
Lynn and more.
“We’re going to take you on a journey of the history of country music,” Kelly says.
“We tell Johnny and June’s story maybe in a way you haven’t heard before.”
“There’s no shortage of drama with these country icons,” Matt adds.
“What we’re really excited about with this show is the connection between two people who love each other and share passion on and off the stage. The intimate nature of that in the juxtaposition of a very public persona and a very public life,” Kelly says.
Multi-instrumentalists Cusack and Kelly sing and play instruments including the guitar and banjo in the show.
already a big fan of classic country music when she was cast in the Johnny Cash show. “I learned to sing particularly country music from my grandmother. She loved Patsy Cline and George Jones,” Kelly says. “I have really fond memories of being at the piano with her, learning harmony, learning these songs. So I have a real connection to this material.”
Cusack grew up in Hamilton with mom Bonnie, dad David and brother Frank. He attended Nottingham High School before matriculating at University of the Arts in Philadelphia, where he studied jazz. He credits Nottingham music teacher Bob Gravener with setting him on a path toward professional music.
“Bob introduced me to my bass teacher, who was head of the bass department at U Arts,” Cusack says. “I was playing with college guys before I was out of high school.”
He auditioned for and was cast in a musical about Buddy Holly in New Hampshire. “Less than a year after I got out of college, I was in theater,” he says.
Since then he has done a variety of shows including “One Man Two Guvnors” with James Corden, “Bandstand” with Corey Cott and Laura Osnes, and “Robber Bridegroom” with Steve Pasquale, all on Broadway.
Kelly, meanwhile, is set to make her debut with the Public Theatre in the musical, “The Seat of Our Pants” this fall in New York.
“We love singing together, and we love performing together, but I think putting this show together was, ‘Let’s do a deep dive on something we both love and are really passionate about,” Kelly says.
Kelly, who grew up in rural Ohio, was
Cusack and Kelly combined their home states of New Jersey and Ohio to come up with the name New Ohio. With the band they have recently released a self-titled EP. Some of the songs are available on their website, newohiomusic.com.
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WhAT ’s hAppeNiNg?
What’s Happening is a selection of events taking place this month in our area. For even more events, go online to our website, communitynews.org/events.
Details below were believed to be accurate at time of publication. We always recommend that you confirm all necessary details when planning to attend an event.
Tuesday, July 1
Robbinsville Farmers Market, Miry Run Recreation Area. 3:30-7 p.m. Local fruits and vegetables, fresh foods, household items, flowers, pet items and more. 66 Sharon Road, Robbinsville.
Hamilton Township Fireworks and Concert, Hamilton Veterans Park. Live music starting at 6 p.m. 16 food vendors providing dinner and sweets. Fireworks show to start around 9:30 p.m. Rain date July 2. hamiltonnj.com. 2206 Kuser Road, Hamilton.
Wednesday, July 2
Wednesday Wonder Walk, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. Easy walk in Roebling Park. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton.
Open Band Jam, Cooper’s Riverview. 7 p.m. Live music. coopersnj.com. 50 Riverview Plaza, Trenton.
THuRsday, July 3
Captain Paul’s Firehouse dogs First annual
Hot dog eating Contest, Captain Paul’s Firehouse Dogs. 6 p.m. Compete in Captain Paul’s Firehouse Dogs first hot dog eating contest. Proceeds to benefit Tunnels to Towers. Four brackets, prizes. captainpaulsdogs.com/hot-dog-eating-contest. html. 2230 Princeton Pike, Lawrenceville. Bordentown Independence day Fireworks, Joseph Lawrence Park. 4:30 p.m. Food trucks, DJ, kids’ corner. Fireworks start at dusk. 317 Ward Ave., Bordentown. ewing Township Fireworks, TCNJ Green Lane Soccer Fields. 6:30 p.m. Food trucks, live DJ, kids’ zone. Fireworks begin at dusk. ewingnj.org. Parking available at TCNJ, Armstrong Park and Antheil School. Cosmic Jerry Band: Grateful dead Tribute, Cooper’s Riverview. 7 p.m. coopersnj.com. 50 Riverview Plaza, Trenton.
FRIday, July 4
Frederick Keys at Trenton Thunder, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 6 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton.
The Williamsboy, Trenton Tir Na nOg. 9 p.m. 1324 Hamilton Ave, Trenton.
Fourth of July Festival, Morven Museum & Garden. Noon-3 p.m. Free. morven.org. 55 Stockton St, Princeton.
saTuRday, July 5
West Windsor Farmers Market, West Windsor Community Farmers Market. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. wwcfm.org. 877 Alexander Road, Windsor.
First saturday Wellness Walk, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. Easy hike from the Tulpehaking Nature Center to Spring Lake and back. Led by nature center staff. Must register at abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton.
Independence day Celebration: Colonial Field day, Washington Crossing Historic Park. Play popular games from the 18th century. Sessions at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. washingtoncrossingpark.org. 1112 River Rd, Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania.
evening Blacksmithing, Howell Living History Farm. 5 p.m. howellfarm.org. 70 Woodens Lane, Hopewell.
state College spikes at Trenton Thunder, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 6 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton.
The Pink Floyd Project, Cooper’s Riverview. 8 p.m. coopersnj.com. 50 Riverview Plaza, Trenton.
sunday, July 6
Bordentown Farmer’s Market, Carslake Community Center. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Local produce, handmade goods, baked goods and more. 207 Crosswicks St., Bordentown. state College spikes at Trenton Thunder, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 1 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton.
Family sundays at the nature Center, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 1:30 p.m. Naturalistguided program for families. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Ave, Hamilton.
Tuesday, July 8
Read & Pick: Blueberries, Terhune Orchards. Sessions at 9:30 and 11 a.m. Must register at terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
stand Tall yoga, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. All levels welcome. Taught by a certified yoga instructor. Must register at abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton.
Robbinsville Farmers Market, Miry Run Recreation Area. 3:30-7 p.m. Local fruits and vegetables, fresh foods, household items, flowers, pet items and more. 66 Sharon Road, Robbinsville.
Wednesday, July 9
Wednesday Wonder Walk, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. Easy walk in Roebling Park. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton. Wednesday, July 9
Open Band Jam, Cooper’s Riverview. 7 p.m. Live music. coopersnj.com. 50 Riverview Plaza, Trenton.
THuRsday, July 10
Princeton Farmers Market, Princeton Public library. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. princetonfarmersmarket.com. Hinds Plaza, 55 Witherspoon Street, Princeton.
FRIday, July 11
Meet Me In st. louis, Kelsey Theatre. 8 p.m. Presented by The Yardley Players. Based on the Judy Garland movie. kelseytheatre.org. 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor.
saTuRday, July 12
West Windsor Farmers Market, West Windsor Community Farmers Market. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. wwcfm.org. 877 Alexander Road, Windsor.
Blueberry Bash Festival, Terhune Orchards. 10 a.m. 2-acre Pick-Your-Own blueberry
See EVENTS, Page 18
& Victorian Dresses
Past
patch. terhuneorchards.com/blueberrybash. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
Meet Me In st. louis, Kelsey Theatre. 2 p.m.
Based on the Judy Garland movie. kelseytheatre.org. 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor.
evening animal Chores, Howell Living History Farm. 12 a.m. howellfarm.org. 70 Woodens Lane, Hopewell.
sunday, July 13
Bordentown Farmer’s Market, Carslake Community Center. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Local produce, handmade goods, baked goods and more. 207 Crosswicks St., Bordentown. Blueberry Bash Festival, Terhune Orchards. Noon to 4 p.m. terhuneorchards.com/ blueberry-bash.
Family sundays at the nature Center, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 1:30 p.m. Naturalistguided program for families. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Ave, Hamilton.
Meet Me In st. louis, Kelsey Theatre. 2 p.m.
Based on the Judy Garland movie. kelseytheatre.org. 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor.
Intro to Tea Blending Workshop, Trenton Farmers Market north wing. 4 p.m. Handson workshop on the art of tea blending. 960 Spruce Street, Lawrence.
Tuesday, July 15
Business Before Business Virtual speed networking. 8:30 a.m. Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce online networking event. Register at princetonmercerchamber.org. Princeton.
stand Tall yoga, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. All levels welcome. Taught by a certified yoga instructor. Must register at ab-
bottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton. Tuesday, July 15
Robbinsville Farmers Market, Miry Run Recreation Area. 3:30-7 p.m. Local produce, fresh food, household items, flowers, pet items and more. 66 Sharon Road, Robbinsville.
Wednesday, July 16
Wednesday Wonder Walk, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. Easy group walk in Roebling Park. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton.
THuRsday, July 17
Princeton Farmers Market, Princeton Public library. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. princetonfarmersmarket.com. Hinds Plaza, 55 Witherspoon Street, Princeton.
FRIday, July 18
Meet Me In st. louis, Kelsey Theatre. 8 p.m. Based on the Judy Garland movie. kelseytheatre.org. 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor.
saTuRday, July 19
West Windsor Farmers Market, West Windsor Community Farmers Market. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. wwcfm.org. 877 Alexander Road, Windsor.
Meet Me In st. louis, Kelsey Theatre. 2 p.m. Based on the Judy Garland movie. kelseytheatre.org. 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor.
The Jumper PhillyBand dance Party with dJ, Cooper’s Riverview. 7 p.m. Dinner and a show. coopersnj.com. 50 Riverview Plaza, Trenton.
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Composition Institute Concert, Princeton University, Alexander Hall. 8 p.m. njsymphony.org. 68 Nassau St, Princeton.
sunday, July 20
Bordentown Farmer’s Market, Carslake Community Center. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Local produce, handmade goods, baked goods and more. 207 Crosswicks St., Bordentown. Family sundays at the nature Center, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 1:30 p.m. Naturalistguided program for families. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Ave, Hamilton. Meet Me In st. louis, Kelsey Theatre. 2 p.m. Based on the Judy Garland movie. kelseytheatre.org. 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor.
MOnday, July 21
Williamsport Crosscutters at Trenton Thunder, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 7 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton.
Tuesday, July 22
Read & Pick: Peaches, Terhune Orchards. Sessions at 9:30 and 11 a.m. For ages preschool to 8. Must register at terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton. stand Tall yoga, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. All levels welcome. Taught by a certified yoga instructor. Must register at abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton. Tuesday, July 22
Robbinsville Farmers Market, Miry Run Recreation Area. 3:30-7 p.m. Local fruits and vegetables, fresh foods, household items, flowers, pet items and more. 66 Sharon Road, Robbinsville.
Wednesday, July 23
Wednesday Wonder Walk, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. Easy group walk in Roebling Park. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton. July Business after Business, Yankee Doodle Tap Room. 5 p.m. Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce in-person networking event. princetonmercerchamber.org. 10 Palmer Square E., Princeton.
THuRsday, July 24
Princeton Farmers Market, Princeton Public library. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. princetonfarmersmarket.com. Hinds Plaza, 55 Witherspoon Street, Princeton.
FRIday, July 25
live Music on the Patio: Paul Plumeri, Nassau Inn. 6 p.m. nassauinn.com. 10 Palmer Square W, Princeton.
saTuRday, July 26
annual Freezing, Canning and Preserving Class, Terhune Orchards. 10 a.m. Tannwen Mount to host free class offered once every summer. Register at terhuneorchards. com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton. West Windsor Farmers Market, West Windsor Community Farmers Market. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. wwcfm.org. 877 Alexander Road, Windsor.
The successful Failures, Needle Creek Brewery. 2 p.m. Live acoustic music. needlecreek.com. 91 Titus Mill Rd, Pennington. Mercer County 4-H Fair, Howell Living History Farm. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Animal shows and exhibits, homemade ice cream, hay rides, pony rides, music, magic shows and farm tours. howellfarm.org/mercer-county-4h-fair. 70 Woodens Lane, Hopewell.
sunday, July 27
Bordentown Farmer’s Market, Carslake Community Center. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Local produce, handmade goods, baked goods and more. 207 Crosswicks St., Bordentown. Family sundays at the nature Center, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 1:30 p.m. Naturalistguided program for families. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Ave, Hamilton. Mercer County 4-H Fair, Howell Living History Farm. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. See event listing for July 26. howellfarm.org/mercer-county-4h-fair. 70 Woodens Lane, Hopewell.
Tuesday, July 29
stand Tall yoga, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. All levels welcome. Taught by a certified yoga instructor. Must register at abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton. Tuesday, July 29
Robbinsville Farmers Market, Miry Run Recreation Area. 3:30-7 p.m. Local fruits and vegetables, fresh foods, household items, flowers, pet items and more. 66 Sharon Road, Robbinsville.
Hamilton Conversations: national Monarch dome Project, Hamilton Township Public Library. 7 p.m. Ecology garden designer Jim Bushong will discuss the plants that provide habitats for monarch butterflies. 1 Samuel L Alito Jr Way, Hamilton. West Virginia Black Bears at Trenton Thunder, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 7 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton.
Wednesday, July 30
Wednesday Wonder Walk, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. Easy group walk in Roebling Park. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton.
Hassan took a ball, then stepped out again. She looked down at the third base coaching box and Melker gave her a wink. Hassan smiled and gave a head nod.
“The feeling I got was, ‘She’s gonna do it right here,’” the coach said. “The head nod and smile was like a ‘I gotcha coach,’ and I was like, ‘This is it.’ It was such a cool out-of-body-experience.”
The catcher had to remain in her body to hit, but the moment affected her as well.
“I’d seen the pitcher a few times and I felt really good, especially after Melker gave me that look and that smile,” Hassan said. “I knew she had confidence in me and it made me have confidence in myself.”
Hassan promptly slammed the next pitch for an RBI single to provide one of the most memorable victories in Steinert athletics history.
The win put a special group of Spartans into elite status of historical proportions, as they became:
* The first public school softball program to win three straight state titles (that mark was tied when Cedar Grove won Group I several hours later).
* The first Mercer County softball program to win three straight.
* The first Steinert girls program to claim three straight, and just the third program in school history along with boys soccer (1969-71) and baseball (1998-2000).
* Tied with Gloucester City and Bishop Eustace with six state titles, good for ninth place overall and third amongst public schools.
Melker, who is 29-3 in state games, has the second most state titles of any Steinert coach, behind legends Goose Laurenti, Paul Tessein and Rich Giallella (four each). It was all made possible by a seventh-inning rally that will rank among one of the greatest moments in the rich tradition of Steinert sports.
The Spartans (22-4) were having a frustrating day against Randolph. Their usually outstanding defense committed
Having so much confidence in them is the key.”
Mia Pope could only shake her head in admiration of Simonka, who finished 12-0 in state games (3-0 in finals) with a 0.75 ERA and 104 strikeouts.
“She’s really amazing,” the junior shortstop said. “I give her so much credit. She’ll always believe in our defense no matter how many errors we have. She knows she has a good defense behind her. We have so much trust in her. She’s powerful with her attitude and the bond between us and her is amazing.”
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five errors, although senior pitcher Katie Simonka picked up her teammates by escaping several jams.
“In a high-pressure game like that, no one is gonna be perfect,” Simonka said. “I felt the
pressure and I knew everyone around us felt the pressure. Mistakes are gonna happen. At the end of the day, as long as I’m doing everything I can do and they’re doing everything they can do, we’re gonna make it up.
Simonka’s efforts appeared to be for naught, as Steinert could not score despite six hits and three walks in the first six frames. The Spartans had specialized in the big inning throughout the states. This time, it just needed a medium inning. With three outs left to make history, Melker huddled her team and advised that it let go of everything that had happened so far.
“I told them believe in each other, trust the person that’s up,” the coach said. “Don’t
Senior catcher Addison Hassan delivers the winning hit in the softball state championship final against Randolph at Ivy Hill Park in Newark. Steinert won, 3-2. (Photo by Amanda Ruch.)
try to get the big hit. Make contact and just get one hit at a time and string them together.”
Simonka also had inspirational advice.
“It was an emotional moment, the last time being on the field with those girls,” she said. “I told them ‘This is our time to do it. There’s no better time for us to prove ourselves to everyone here.’”
Melker began the inning by pinch-hitting with her secret weapon, Victoria Poppert. The 9th-grader blasted a key pinchdouble in the sectional semifinals against Northern Burlington and came through again with a rally-igniting double.
“Having a freshman go in there in such a crazy moment and hit an absolute bomb just fuels the whole team,” Simonka said. “Everyone was so happy for her. It just made everyone else want to build off something like that.”
Poppert was under orders to prepare for her opportunity.
“I told her, ‘You may get an at-bat the fifth, sixth or seventh, so I need you to stay ready,’” Melker said. “I told her ‘Keep paying attention to the pitcher, keep watching how she’s pitching, where she’s putting the ball. Stay on top of it. Don’t just sit and cheer. Stay focused.”
A strikeout followed the double but Pope strolled to the plate and promptly delivered an RBI single to score Gia DiMeglio (who was re-inserted for Poppert) to cap a 4-for-4 day. In six state games Pope went 13-for-22 with seven doubles, nine runs and four RBI.
“The bigger games, you’re obviously more focused,” the Marist commit said. “That’s when all your hard work pays off. In that moment I was more relaxed. I knew I had my team behind me and even if I didn’t get on, I have back-up in the rest of the lineup.”
To no one’s surprise, she delivered.
“She’s just pure talent,” Melker said. “As soon as I saw her walking up, I knew she’d get on base. If Mia could get that run in, there was no doubt we could win. That was all my girls needed, was Gia’s foot to touch that plate and for that run to
go up on the board.”
Ellie Miller followed with a single to put runners at the corners. That brought up white hot Bianca Walsh, who was 11-for17 in the first five state games but 0-for-3 in this one despite some hard hit balls.
“As their coach talked to their pitcher I was talking to Bianca and I said ‘What are you thinking?’” Melker said. “I told her ‘Just relax because when that ball touches the bat, no matter where it goes, Mia’s coming in. We have this, that’s all you need to know.’”
And Walsh’s response?
“She said, ‘OK,’”
The girl of few words spoke loudly with her bat by delivering an RBI single. Hassan then came up and “I just kind of felt the moment,” and a few minutes later the Spartans felt unbridled joy.
Melker’s reaction?
“I was mostly how in awe of them and how happy I was they could do that for each other,” she said. “The ability to bounce back and never give up on each other, it felt so good. I was so proud of them.”
Pope attributed the rally to her team’s mindset so she wasn’t overly surprised. But she was overjoyed.
“This was one of the greatest moments I experienced,” she said. “It’s such a beautiful thing to know what you can accomplish with a group of girls that become your family for three months. Getting to improve with them every day is a fun thing, and getting to go all the way three years in a row is amazing.”
For Simonka and Hassan, their four years featured four sectional titles, four trips to the state finals and three state crowns.
“It still doesn’t feel real,” Hassan said of her heroics. “All the emotions of this being my last game and my last at-bat; winning three straight. If you would have told me we’d win three back-to-back I’d probably say you’re a little crazy. But with the team we have, I’m not surprised.”
It was a team built on pitching, defense and timely hitting. There were the senior
stars like FDU commit Simonka (16-4, 1.39 ERA, 235 Ks), Stockton-bound Hassan (.403, 20 RBI) and Rowan recruit Gia DiMeglio (.265, 20 runs).
“They meant more than I can put in words,” Melker said. “Watching that dynamic of Katie and Addison in the circle and behind the plate was just unbelievable to be a part of. And Gia came up big in many situations with big hits or big plays.”
The talented junior class featured Pope (.503, 33 RBI, 36 runs), Walsh (.473, 29 RBI) and Miller (.392, 23 runs). Sophomore studs were Francesca Castellano (.308, 17 RBI), Aleiya O’Neal (.365, 17 runs), Danica Spak (.300, 11 runs) and Nikki Donovan (.350). Freshman Lindsey Siwczak crashed a veteran lineup as the starting designated player and hit .283 with 22 runs, while Poppert proved her worth off the bench.
But as Melker always points out, all 15 players contribute and she noted that senior Rosalie Horchuk (who was injured) and freshmen Aleena Eckel and Gabby Piscotta also made impacts in various ways.
It was a group that constantly had to deal with the pressure of a three-peat hanging over their heads.
“Our coach told us to let everyone else say that,” Pope said. “It’s obviously a big thing, we always had it in the back of our minds that we could make history but we
knew we had to take it one game at a time and once the time comes – the state final – we leave it all out on the field.”
Simonka felt that, “having fun was a huge part of it. And Melker put together a difficult schedule so most every game felt like a state game. It created the pressure atmosphere all season, and freshmen who stepped up big and adjusted to it.”
The pressure isn’t going anywhere. With so much talent returning, talk of fourpeat is already underway. Despite losing Simonka, Miller is a standout pitcher just waiting for her chance. Melker hinted that Castellano can go from first base back to her natural position of catcher but added that “I haven’t even had tryouts yet, so nothing is positive.”
Except Miller in the circle.
“Ellie is a crazy talented pitcher, she will be our ace,” Melker said. “I’m just as hopeful and excited about next year, honestly.”
As is her shortstop.
“It’s so exciting, it will be just like this year,” Pope said. “We’ll always think about it and once the time comes and once the season starts, that’s what we will focus on. It’s a great opportunity and we’ll work as best we can to accomplish our goals.”
Hassan stated: “They will still be a great team. They’ll continue this legacy.”
A legacy that Hassan made herself a huge part of with one swing of the bat.
WEDNESDAY
spORTs
Steinert softball has soared to unprecedented heights
By RICH FIsHeR
It will take time to sink in for Steinert supporters and even Mercer County softball fans in general as to just how special the Spartans program has become.
Their stretch of excellence is unparalleled by any other CVC sports program over the past decade, as it includes 10 straight appearances in the sectional finals, seven trips to the state finals and five state championships.
The run started with Jean Ruppert at the helm and Jenn Melker as an assistant. Melker took over in 2019 and since then Steinert is 132-23 (29-3 in state games) with five 20-win seasons, four straight sectional crowns and three straight state titles.
Success like that is more than just the players. Granted, tremendous talent has come through the system but a deep dive into the unprecedented Spartans success goes beyond hits and runs.
There is a cohesion, which in turn makes things more fun, which helps alle-
viate the pressure of trying to become Mercer County’s (and the state’s) first public school program to win three
straight state softball crowns. And that comes from a coaching staff that cares about its players beyond the field.
Asked what their coaches do for the Spartans, senior catcher Addison Hassan didn’t mince words.
“Everything,” she said. “Literally every single thing.”
Melker is assisted by former Spartan players Gerri “Bear” Leone (the pitching coach) and Carli Backlund, former Nottingham player Sam Dice (JV coach), Maryland transplant Michelle Walsh, who is the top varsity assistant, and Melker’s dad, Mercer Softball Hall of Famer Mike Melker.
There is a chemistry within the staff that carries over to the team.
“They have such a great bond and that creates a great bond with us,” junior shortstop Mia Pope said. “The coaches work so well together and that inspires the team and players to work so well. That is a fluid thing for us and it really helps us.”
Melker makes sure to work with people she likes, for she understands that the See PROGRAM, Page 26
Steinert softball coaches Michelle Walsh, Gerri “Bear” Leone, Mike Melker, head coach Jenn Melker, Sam Dice and Carli Backlund. (Photo by Amanda Ruch.)
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coaches behavior can have an effect.
“It helps when you’re all on a united front,” she said. “They see how passionate we are as a staff for each other and that transcends with the kids. They know they have the full support.
“One kid can’t always resonate with one coach. Having what we have — the ability of these girls to find the coach they relate to, whether it’s me or Walsh or whoever — means they always have someone on their side and there for them.”
ship and believing and buying in on what we’re trying to preach. It’s not a matter of trying to win this game, it’s a matter of ‘I know you have the ability to do that.’ This game is 80 percent mental.”
Melker tapped into that mentality during the bus ride up to Ivy Hill Park for the state finals. She put together a book of different quotes concerning positive mentality that they could read if they chose.
Coaches of all sports in all states at all levels talk about the chemistry and bond of their teams but sometimes it’s just lip service. With Steinert, it’s gospel. Melker will not abide by an assistant who makes winning the only priority.
“It’s about building relationships with them,” the coach said. “It’s having them know ‘We care about you and it’s not just about softball. We care about you as individuals.’ It’s a buy-in factor of building that chemistry with them. It’s not just about softball but to be a part of other things in their lives as well. When you talk to them, they know you’re talking to them as a person, you’re not just talking to get a win.”
Senior pitcher Katie Simonka recalled when she first entered the program as a freshman, the introduction conversation never included wins and losses.
“I try to do the mindset and not rely on just the ability,” Melker said. “I tell them that when we huddle up. I tell them, ‘Everybody practices, puts in reps, puts in tee work. What puts us ahead is that you guys work hard on the mental part.’
“I make them answer me when I say ‘Where is your head at, what can bring you out of this?’ if something is going wrong. Every kid has a different answer. You have to focus on what works for each girl and it’s not the same. It’s not copy and paste. Their ability is there; it’s not going away. They need to focus on the mental block and how to get out of it.”
Every player, of course, has to be dealt with uniquely.
“Do I need to be harder on them?” Melker continued. “Do they work better when things are light and we’re laughing? You have to learn your players and buy into what they need.”
“They just said that when you’re wearing that jersey to play for each other and to play with pride and humbleness and just have fun,” Simonka said. “They always preach to have fun and enjoy the game because you never know when the next game will be your last. Eventually it all comes together and creates what happened for us.”
Melker didn’t make her quote book required reading on the bus ride. But at least one player bought in.
“I read the whole thing,” Pope said. “She’s amazing with that kind of stuff. Always making us feel calm and not too over-pressured. She knows about our ability, but those booklets just tell us what we have to keep in our minds every day. We also know our ability and what to do. We just have to play relaxed and be there for each other. Our coaches love to remind us of that.
The players knew that the coaches faith in them was legitimate. It was that kind of connection, as much as anything, that allowed a talented group of players to fend off the immense pressure of making history.
“It’s a matter of clearing your head and that’s hard to do,” Melker said. “But they buy in. That transfers back to the relation-
“Our coaches always have a smile on their face. You can see it. Even if we’re down 10-0 they’re smiling. That’s really the beauty of our team.”
And the secret sauce that makes a talented team a championship team.
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3 Hamilton track stars reach Meet of Champs for 1st time
By RICH FIsHeR
While it was a somewhat down year for Colonial Valley Conference track and field where the NJSIAA Meet of Champions was concerned, it was definitely an up year for three athletes from Hamilton Township schools who reached the MOC for the first time.
Nottingham senior Ernest Gaykai qualified in the shot put, Northstars’ freshman Ti’Kayla Smith reached in the javelin — in just her first season doing track — and Hamilton West senior Zairra Galloway advanced in the triple jump in her second season of competing.
Gaykai is the most experienced of the trio. He arrived at Nottingham with aspirations of playing college football and was an offensive lineman for Milo McGuire’s squad.
He was encouraged to try track by former Northstars’ coach Mary Johnson. “I never even heard of shot put, and she introduced me to it,” Gaykai said. “I got really good throughout a couple weeks. My best mark was 32. I did discus, but shot was my best.”
He would surpass that best by 20 feet by the time he was a senior, but first Gaykai
had to undergo some heavy lifting.
“I worked with him two years in the spring and before in winter track,” Nottingham throws coach Andrew Parsons said. “He needed to work on a lot of his foot placement on his spin. He had to get that down. But he goes out there dependably doing what he needs to do.”
The shot/discus man learned his lessons well, and set the Nottingham record last year with a throw of 50 feet, 10 inches. This year the goal was to beat that mark, which Gaykai first did with a secondplace throw of 51-7 in the Colonial Valley Conference meet.
“Weren’t high with expectations about the Meet of Champions,” Parsons said. “But after he put up that 51, I started looking at the numbers and thought there was a good chance to get there.”
After finishing third with a 49-7 in the Central Jersey Group III meet, he again broke his record with a 52-0 in the Group III meet, which qualified him as a wild card for the MOC.
“It was a big accomplishment for me,” Gaykai said. “I always wanted to go there since junior year. I just heard about it junior year so that was going to be a big goal for me my senior year.”
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He tried to low-key the event when he got there. “I saw a lot of big athletes over there,” Gaykai said. “But I just looked at it as a normal meet.”
It was not, however, a normal meet.
“I remember coaching him at Meet of Champs and how he never thought he was gonna be there and how amazed he was he made it this far,” said Kenley Souffrant, the boys team head coach. “It’s a very intense atmosphere.”
Unfortunately, Gaykai had a tough day, with his best throw being a 48-10.
“I was a little nervous, plus it was hot that day,” he said. “I didn’t really do well. That was my first time over there, so I didn’t really prepare myself for that type of day. I was disappointed a little bit, but I look back at all the stuff I did this season and that was good.”
Souffrant, no stranger to the MOC as he was there with the Northstars’ 4x400 relay team during his running days, was pleased with Gaykai’s season.
“If anything, he’s been very consistent all year, very dependable,” the coach said. “He’s been a great leader amongst the throwers.”
Gaykai’s progress has landed him scholarship offers to Division II Caldwell and Division I St. Peter’s, which he is still deciding on.
The football dream only lasted a year.
“After what I did the last two years,” Gaykai said, “I wasn’t going to waste the
Smith showed a lot talent in her first year of throwing the javelin. She wanted to try something new and was given an option by the coaches as to what to try, and “javelin was the most fun for me.”
Like any first-time thrower, Smith had to learn the different releases and how to keep it high for better control. Her footwork progressed as the season advanced.
“We started with the basics,” Parsons said. “How to throw it, how to release it. Over time she started to improve, but
she didn’t hit her stride until the (CVC) Freshman-Sophomore meet. That’s when she broke out. She threw 92 feet (and six inches) and got second place there.”
Smith was just getting started. She took third in the Mercer Coaches Classic with a throw of 95-1 before unloading a PR throw of 111-11 to win the CVC championships. It was a pleasant surprise for the 9th-grader.
“That meant a lot,” Smith said. “I was new to this, so being able to win that showed me I was good.
“I was able to keep improving each week. Probably at sectionals I started to think about (MOC) a little bit.”
Smith slumped to 96-11 at sectionals but it was good for fourth place and still advanced her to the Group III meet. She re-emerged at states with a throw of 1094, and nearly reached her PR in the season’s biggest meet with a 16th-place toss of 110-5 at the Meet of Champs.
“Overall I was grateful to be able to compete there,” she said of the MOC. “I just thought that I was there for a reason. I went out and did my best.”
Smith said her goals now are to keep improving “and hopefully get back to the same spot one day.”
Parsons would not bet against it.
“She’s dedicated, focused and totally relentless when it comes to practice,” the coach said. “She would be at practice every day. The day after sectionals I said ‘You want to take a day off?’ and she said ‘No I want to practice.’”
He then paid Smith a huge compliment.
“She made me a better coach,” Parsons said. “When she’s doing everything thing she has to, I have to raise my efforts to meet her. I can’t wait to see her by the time she’s finished.”
Galloway finished on a high note despite competing in her “secondary” sport. The Hornets’ senior is headed for Rutgers-Camden to play basketball next year, but has also decided to do track.
She did the sport her sophomore year, but had to fit it in between her travel basketball schedule. Despite being spread thin, Galloway reached the Group III meet in triple jump with mark of 33-3.5-feet (she also ran and did high jump that year).
“Her junior year, she realized it was too difficult for her mom to drive her back and forth between basketball and track and she wanted to focus on improving in her true love, which was basketball,” West’s veteran jumps coach Jerry Van Slooten said.
With her basketball future decided, Galloway came out again this year. “We knew that we had a limited time to get her to an elite level,” he said. “She scrapped high jump for long jump, which was a little less technical and allowed her to compete with her natural athleticism, which she has plenty of.”
The results were noticeable as Galloway finished second in the Mercer Coaches Classic in the triple (35-1) and long (16-11); first in the CVC Championships in triple (35-4.25) and long (16-6.5) and first in CJ III in triple (36-2.5) and long (17-9).
At the Group III meet Galloway had an off-day in the long jump at 16-0, but finished sixth in the triple in 36-5.75 to gain a wild card berth to the MOC. She capped her West career with a second-best life-
time mark of 36-3 to finish 16th.
“She matured a great deal from her sophomore season,” Van Slooten said.
“Her experience as a basketball player and getting comfortable at West really changed things.”
But that athleticism sure doesn’t hurt.
“I was lucky to get the chance to work with her this season, “Van Slooten said.
“Ultimately, when I saw her touching the rim in the gym I had big dreams for her as a jumper. She is fast, but she is strong and bouncy as well. She’s a rare athlete.”
But an athlete with time constrictions.
“The original plan had always revolved around qualifying for Nationals and using the extra two weeks to continue her progression, but she just ran out of time,”
First Home
Van Slooten said. “She was improving rapidly at the end of the year.”
She improved enough that she will attempt to play basketball and do track at Rutgers-Camden.
“I firmly believe she has the talent to compete at a really high level,” Van Slooten said. “It’s up to her how far she wants to take it.”
Left photo: Zairra Galloway (left) and Hamilton West teammate Nyviah Pacheco smile after both medaling in the NJSIAA Group III meet. Galloway received a wild card berth into the Meet of the Champions. Center photo: Nottingham freshman Ti’Kayla Smith reached the Meet of Champions in her first season of track. Right: Nottingham senior Ernest Gaykai, qualified for the Meet of Champions in the shot put.
MERCER COUNTY CONNECTION’S JULY 2025 EVENTS
Caregiver Suppor t Group
Wednesday, July 9, 2025 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Are you caring for an adult over the age of 60 in Mercer County?
If so, please join us for our Caregiver Suppor t Group This suppor t group offers a safe and welcoming environment for caregivers to share their experiences, seek advice, and find emotional suppor t from others who understand their challenges, along with resources for caregivers in the area The group is facilitated by the Senior Well-Being Specialist from Oaks Integrated Care The Senior Well-Being Program is funded through the Older Americans Act and Mercer County’s Office on Aging
Please call (609) 890-9800 to register.
Notary Oath Night
Thursday, July 10, 2025 3:00PM - 7:00PM
The Mercer County Clerk’s office will administer the oath to newly commissioned and renewing Notaries
To schedule an appointment please call: (609) 989-6466 or email: espagano@mercercounty.org
AHA Homebuyer Counseling & Education and Mortgage Default Counseling
Wednesday, July 16, 2025 10:00AM - 1:00PM
Mercer County Connection, in partnership with the Affordable Housing Alliance, provides an opportunity for Mercer County residents who are experiencing difficulties with mortgage payments to speak with a HUD Certified Counselor
Please call (609) 890-9800 to register.
Wills & Power of Attorney
Wednesday, July 23, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Is your estate in order? Planning for incapacity is an important and often overlooked part of estate planning that covers how you are cared for if you become physically or mentally unable to care for yourself
This seminar will discuss planning tools to use to ensure that decision-making related to property or personal care can proceed without unnecessary disruption
Guest Speaker: Adam Lipps, Esquire, Staff Attorney, Central Jersey Legal Services, Inc
To register please call (609) 890-9800
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The restaurant experience
I’m not often impressed by restaurants. Usually, the experience of dining out garners an “It was okay” sort of review from me, and that’s for a relatively inexpensive place. The prohibitive cost of eating anyplace remotely fancy tends to tip the needle toward disappointment. During a conversation about eating out, someone once observed that I seem to appreciate the experience more than the food, and I suppose in some ways, that’s true. But I’m not so much interested in mood or ambiance; it’s more about what actually happens during dinner. If any budding restaurateurs are reading, here’s what I’d like to see more of:
Menus. No more menus on smartphones, please—the last thing I want to do after staring at a computer much of the day is to pull up a restaurant menu on a 3-by-5 -inch smartphone screen and scroll away. There’s always at least one printed menu around, but asking for it can feel as audacious as Oliver Twist asking for more gruel. This request carries over to servers reciting specials from memory, too. It’s impressive that they can remember 7 or 8 different additions to the menu, but just print out a list and place it on the table instead of forcing customers to play along. It’s all a gigantic waste of human effort, and I don’t want to have to create a “memory palace” just to order food. Robot servers. I don’t know when they’ll be ready for action, but robots could fetch food and drinks reliably, with
fewer mistakes and no obligation to tip them or make small talk. Charge me 5% of the bill for repairs and maintenance, and I’d still come out ahead. Yes, lots of people rely on jobs in restaurants, but times are changing, and disruptions will occur. Which brings me to the next part of my suggestion:
Robot cooks. There’s a creative element to inventing or perfecting a new dish, but let’s face it, once the code has been cracked, it’s a matter of simple, precise repetition. And if there’s one thing robots are good at, it’s endless precise repetition. Removing the human element from the preparation could encourage better and more consistent food everywhere. Imagine a culinary world where chefs collect a fee to license their recipes, which could then be downloaded and followed by robot preparers at any restaurant in the world, not just one. Drawing inspiration from the music and book industries, we could see lists of the Top 10 or Top 100 recipes for the week, in a range of categories. Instead of relying on running a restaurant to make money, chefs could let the merit of their recipes carry them to financial success.
Multi-purpose restaurants. One of the interesting things about traveling across the United States is being exposed to restaurant chains that have thrived in other parts of the country, but never made it to the northeast. One is Quaker Steak and Lube, a car–themed dining chain that has thus far avoided opening franchises in New Jersey or New York.
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The name is intentionally close to Quaker State, longtime sellers of motor oil, and when I first saw it, I thought it was a place you could go and get your oil changed while you ate. I was disappointed to discover it offered no such service. But why not? If they’re going to go for a car theme, they could at least follow through with a useful way to kill two birds with one stone. Auto detailing, dry cleaning and laundromat services are just a few tasks that could be completed while you’re enjoying a meal: drop-off before ordering your food, pick up when you’re done.
Hamilton, NJ 08690
Hamilton, NJ 08690
Ph: (609) 631-4286
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Cell: (609) 337-2366
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Cell: (609) 337-2366
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Bibs. Lobster isn’t the only messy food, so why is it the only one deemed appropriate for adult bib use? I’ve ruined many shirts over many years—an olive oil stain here, some cherry juice there—until I started wearing a bib to eat potentially problematic foods. Wearing a bib is like wearing a cape in reverse; it’s even a little superheroic, if you set your heroism bar low enough so that avoiding stains on shirts qualifies.
While there is a very tiny (in both quantity and stature) natural segment of the population that loves to wear bibs along with their home-supplied diapers, and enjoys being fed mashed up fruits and vegetables with a tiny spoon by a “server” while consuming beverages from baby bottles and being entertained by rattles and bright shiny lights, it’s not really a demographic that would support a restaurant chain. But I’ve got other ideas: how about a restaurant called Biblioteca (“library” in Spanish), with free bibs, a menu dominated by Mexican food, and well-stocked bookshelves? Or Bibliotecha, a restaurant that provides bibs, high-speed wi-fi, and computer consultants who can optimize your hard drive or remove computer viruses from your laptop while you eat?
Or take a restaurant with bibs, add religious scholars to offer educational theological lectures during dinner, and call the place Biblical. As long as “Bib” is in there somewhere, I’ll be happy. Sorry to be so glib, but this is the result when you ad-lib about bibs.
Short and to-the-point food descriptions. Wildflowers Too in Yardville offers an entrée with one of my favorite names ever: Chicken Fantastic. It tastes good, but even more to my liking is the precedent it might set. For years, we’ve all eye-rolled as we consulted our smartphones to decipher obscure ingredients and terminology in overlong, pretentious menu descriptions: (“drizzled,” “hand-selected,” “artisanal”).
In contrast, “Chicken Fantastic” presents a simple descriptive formula: main ingredient plus adjective. Instead of Beef Rendang, Schnitzel Wiener Art and Chicken Tabaka, I’d feel much more enthusiastic about ordering dishes like “Beef Brilliant,” “Pork Preeminent” and even “Chicken Enthusiastic.”
Free clothing. Not long ago, I ate at a hamburger chain called 30 Burgers. The food was good, and you generally order by number, which is great for speed and simplicity. But I thought they were
missing out on a marketing opportunity by not offering free T-shirts to anyone who ate all 30 burgers on the menu. Since monitoring a customer’s actual food consumption at the store location would be impractical, the best you could realistically do would be to offer a shirt to people who had ordered all 30 burgers. They wouldn’t need to be ordered, or eaten, all at once: an online loyalty account could track your history and keep an up-to-date checklist.
For even greater loyalty levels, say, two or three times through the menu ordering all 30 burgers, prizes would get bigger and bigger. Blind, unquestioning loyalty—for example, eating every meal at the restaurant, or cycling through the entire menu a dozen times—would earn membership to the inner “Trump Circle” level and be rewarded with a prominent position within the company, very possibly one for which the recipient isn’t qualified.
Offering free clothing to frequent customers would spread the word about the restaurant, but it could get expensive. So, if I were an owner looking to reduce costs, I’d make one of the 30 burgers on the list as disgusting as possible, while still maintaining a satisfactory grade from the local health inspector. The goal: to reduce the likelihood of patrons collecting their free shirt. Squid Burger with cheese and pickles? Insect Crunchburger cooked to perfection with special sauce? Or perhaps The Fatburger, literally shaped out of beef tallow and leftover grease? It’s served at room temperature, because if heated, the burger would simply melt away into the fat-saturated bun.
I admit, my ideal restaurant experiences—as a customer and as an owner—might be different from most. But any of these ideas, if implemented, would fit one important criterion: a restaurant experience you’d never forget.
Peter Dabbene’s website is peterdabbene.com.
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THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP
ANNOUCES NEW CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
NEWS TO KNOW
9 questions about Lakefront Gallery at RWJ Hamilton
and hospital staff?
THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP
Shop Small, Shop Local, Shop Hamilton.
ANNOUCES NEW CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
As you shop this summer please remember to support our local small businesses and our neighbors and friends who own them. Visit our websites Hamilton-Strong.com and ShopHamiltonNJ.com
Jeannine Cimino Board Chairman Rachel Holland Executive Director
The Hamilton Partnership is proud to announce Jeannine Cimino, as newly elected Chaiman of the Board and Rachel Holland as the newly appointed Executive Director.
The Lakefront Gallery in RWJ University Hospital Hamilton is an oasis in the bustling medical center. It is a place to take a moment and have a look at artwork that may take your mind away from the other aspects of the hospital.
The gallery is a long space that is above the busy Garden Café cafeteria. The size of the space challenges the viewer to slow their pace and meander the length of the gallery pausing to admire the carefully hung artwork. The gallery is curated by the Princeton Photography Club and shows all type of artwork.
We have received tremendously positive feedback from the staff and patients at the hospital. The staff love to walk the gallery, which is located in a well-travelled part of the hospital, and look forward to each new exhibition. It seems that works of art depicting nature have particular appeal to the staff.
What fight/struggle do you have regarding the curating of the Lakefront Gallery?
Honestly, there really isn’t any struggle at all. The staff at the hospital are hugely supportive and help us whenever a need arises. We have a backlog of exhibits planned out about 12-18 months. My only wish is that more people were able to view the exhibits.
Jeannine Cimino Rachel Holland Executive Director
Since 1993, The Hamilton Partnership has worked with community business leaders, government officials, and private decision-makers to deliver services and employment opportunities that are essential to Hamilton Township’s continued success.
The Hamilton Partnership is proud to announce Jeannine Cimino Board and Executive Director.
Congratulations to Jeannine and Rachel, the first females to serve in each of their roles!
We interviewed Princeton Photography club president Dave Burwell about the gallery.
How did curating Lakefront Gallery come about?
Our relationship with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton was initiated about 10 years ago by Sheila Geisler, who together with her husband Carl, led the Princeton Photography Club for many years. Sheila believed in the power of photography to help create a more calming and healing environment.
This aligned nicely with an initiative within the hospital led by Diane Grillo, vice president of health promotion.
How many pieces can be shown in the gallery? What are the dimensions or wall space of the gallery?
It is a large, beautiful, and well-lit gallery, which can hold 75 to 100 artworks at one time.
Are there opening receptions when a new exhibition opens?
Must one be a member of photography club to exhibit?
No, we are open to exhibition proposals from anyone. The only caveat is that the artwork must be appropriate for the hospital setting and mission.
Are artwork sales handled through the Princeton Photography Club or through the hospital? Do artist talks or other events take place at the gallery during exhibitions?
Artwork sales are handled directly with the artists and the hospital receives a donation for each piece sold. We do hold artist talks, but typically not at the gallery during the reception, rather at one of our other weekly meetings.
What is on the horizon?
I always look forward seeing are the amazing range of artistic expression that is on display in each exhibit and am grateful to the hospital for providing a a beautiful space when it can be shared.
THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP EXECUTIVE BOARD
Jeannine Cimino, Chair, William Penn Bank
Source: Unkown
Rachel Holland, Executive Director
Gregory Blair (Emeritus), Nottingham Insurance Co.
Since 1993, The Hamilton Partnership has worked with community business leaders, government officials, and private decision-makers to deliver services and employment opportunities that are essential to Hamilton Township’s continued success.
Hon. Jeff Martin, Mayor, Hamilton Township
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Lee Boss, The Mercadien Group
Gerard Fennelly, NAI Fennelly
Congratulations to Jeannine and Rachel, the first females to serve in each of their roles!
Richard Freeman, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Hamilton Frank Lucchesi, PSE&G
Patrick M. Ryan, First Bank
Tom Troy, Sharbell Development Corp.
Since 1993, The Hamilton Partnership has worked with community business leaders, government o cials, and private decision-makers to deliver services and employment opportunities that are essential to Hamilton Township’s continued success. @thehamiltonpartnership @Hamiltonnjstrong
We are on a quarterly exhibition schedule, with new exhibits opening roughly Feb. 1, May 1, Aug. 1 and Nov. 1. We typically hold opening receptions on the Wednesday evening, 5-7 p.m., following each of those dates. Our next reception will be on Wednesday, Aug. 6. Receptions are free, and all are invited to attend.
What types of art are on exhibit?
I also appreciate seeing the personal growth and satisfaction in the individuals who display their work. For many, it is the first time they have shown their work in a gallery, and there are so many details that go into producing an exhibition — it is a big accomplishment.
THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP EXECUTIVE BOARD
Jeannine Cimino, Chair, William Penn Bank
Gerard Fennelly, NAI Fennelly
Richard Freeman, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Hamilton Frank Lucchesi, PSE&G
We have exhibited many types of artworks over the years, including painting, quilt works, collage, digital art and photography, of course. We also help run the Congressional Art Competition each year. This is a national competition for high school students, organized by each member of Congress in their district, with the winning artwork to be hung Washington for a year.
How is the art received by patients
The Princeton Photography Club is a wonderful, diverse group of individuals who share a love for photography and enjoy exploring new ideas in photography and the related arts. Our mission is to help our members become better photographers, and the learning that comes from producing an exhibit at Lakefront Gallery is invaluable. Web: princetonphotoclub.com.
Thomas Kelly FIGHT In THe MuseuM
Thomas Kelly is a Hamilton-based artist. On the web: thomaskellyart.com.
CLAssiFieD
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VACATION RENTAL
Fort Myers Beach, Fl. Dates are still available 1 br condo on beach. Call for details @ 609-577-8244.
SERVICES
Professional Home Organizing Services –Serving Princeton, NJ & Surrounding Areas A professional organizer who helps busy individuals and families reclaim their space—and their peace of mind.Contact Maria | msmariakelly@gmail. com | 347 249 8271
F,D, Mason Contractor, Over 30 years of experience. Brick, Block, Stone, Concrete. No job too large or small. Fully Insured and Licensed. Free Estimates 908-385-5701 Lic#13VH05475900.
Are you single? Try us first! We are an enjoyable alternative to online dating. Sweet Beginnings Matchmaker, 215-539-2894, www. sweetbeginnings.info.
LEGAL SERVICES Wills, Power of Attorney, Real Estate, Federal and NJ Taxes, Education Law. House calls available. Bruce Cooke, Esq. 609-799-4674, 609-721-4358.
Guitar, Ukulele and Drum lessons for all. Call Jane 609 510-1400. $25.00 per lesson.
Emergency child care Emergency child care –need a date? At a loss for child care sometimes? Need a few hours to yourself? Hello, I’m Eileen. I taught preschool for 39 years as well as being a clown. Ages 2 1/2 -6 years. 609-477-4268.
Senior Concierge. Here to assist you. In the home or on the road. Part-time/Day or evening. Holidays and weekends no problem. Very good references. Call Mary Ann, 609-298-4456 Text: 609-676-4530. Taking appointments again starting May 1st.
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 .
Ask The Doctor
Geriatrician Sara Ali, MD, an RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group provider affiliated with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, an RWJBarnabas Health facility. She is also the Medical Director of Geriatrics at Hamilton. Dr. Ali recommends patients 65+ see a geriatrician at least once.
As we age, our body functions differently and a geriatrician is trained specifically in identifying and treating symptoms and illnesses specific to this population. Geriatricians can either see patients as their Primary Care Physician or as a specialist working in tandem with their existing physician.
Dr. Ali shares her top three tips for healthy aging so we can make the most of all our years.
Adopt a healthy diet as early as possible and continue this as you
age.
See our ads in SIX09 section pgs 5 and 7
Eating well is the best way to get important nutrients, maintain heart health and fuel your body. The key to eating well is balanced meals that include protein, carbs, fruits and vegetables, and consuming the appropriate number of calories.
You can speak to your provider about what the right number of calories are for you and your specific health needs or goals. When we are eating well, we will often have more energy and have an overall sense of being healthy.
cardiovascular and strength exercises will help you maintain an active lifestyle.
Maintain a regular exercise routine. While regular exercise is recommended at any age, it is especially important as we age. Cardiovascular activities such as walking are a great way to support your overall health, especially your heart health. Strength training, exercises done with weights, helps develop and maintain muscle. The combination of
I also recommended incorporating balance training, such as yoga or Tai chi, into your weekly routine. By building better balance, you can reduce your risk for falls as you age. In addition to the many physical health benefits to exercise, daily movement is also great for mental health. I always suggest taking a walk or doing yoga with friends, loved ones, or even a pet to make it more social and enjoyable.
Take your medication as prescribed. No matter your age, it is always recommended to take your medication exactly as prescribed by your provider.
This is important because taking medication infrequently or stopping suddenly can negatively impact your health. If you do have any concerns about a medication or dosage, ask your pharmacist or provider.
Even if you don’t have questions, bring a list of all current medications, including any vitamins and supplements, to every doctor’s appointment. And, never stop taking any medication unless instructed to do so by your provider.
Associates located at 3100 Quakerbridge Road, Suite 28, Hamilton Township, NJ, and appointments can be made by calling 609- 245-7430. Most insurances are accepted.
Or to locate a provider near you, visit rwjbh.org/medicalgroup
Programs at RWJUH Hamilton this month
The following programs are sponsored by RWJUH Hamilton Community Health, open to all and all ages, and Better Health Program, open to all 65+ years old. All programs take place at the Center for Health & Wellness located at RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd., Hamilton, NJ 08619--unless otherwise noted. View the calendar of programs available online at rwjbh.org/ hamiltonprograms, or for more information or to register, call 609-584-5900. Registration is required to attend programs.
MOnday, July 7
Wii Games (Community Health). 4–5 p.m. Also Friday, July 25, 10–11 a.m. Join the RWJ Rehabilitation team for this fun hour of Wii games and learn about safe mechanics. Mastering body movement is leveling up your real-life stats. Play smart, move like a pro, and stay in the game longer!
Wednesday, July 9
One of the most overlooked aspects of healthy aging is social connection. Older adults who remain socially engaged through group activities, continued learning, medical education, or simply spending time with others often have better cognitive function, emotional well-being, and even physical health outcomes.
social Hour for seniors (Better Health). 10–11 a.m. Also July 9, July 16, July 23, and July 30. Members, don’t miss an opportunity to participate in life-changing conversations, listening, learning, and exploring for this time in our lives. Topics created for you by you. Every week is new and something different. New members are always welcome. Join us on all the dates, two, or even one. It’s your choice.
MOnday, July 14
“As a geriatrician, I don’t just focus on managing chronic illnesses or medications—I look at the whole person. That’s why comprehensive geriatric care includes guidance on staying activesocially, mentally, and physically,” says Dr. Ali.
“As part of a healthy aging plan, adults 65+ years old in the community can turn to the Better Health Program at RWJUH Hamilton, a complimentary membership program offering monthly free programs, support groups, activities and holistic services including Tai Chi, chair Yoga, senior socials, and nutritional cooking demonstrations.” shares Dr. Ali.
To learn more and become a Better Health member, call Health Connections at 609-584-5900.
Dr. Ali sees patients at RWJ Medical
Fitness Tips to Prevent Golf Injuries (Community Health). 6–7:15 p.m. Presented by an RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center trainer, this program can help you prevent golf injuries, starting with proper warm-ups techniques and good swing mechanics. Learn how strength and flexibility may help you stay pain-free.
FRIday, July 18
nourish your Brain: Cooking for Brain Health (Better Health). 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Let’s have some fun while learning recipes that can help fuel our brains.
MOnday, July 28
Feed your Heart: Cooking for a Healthy Heart (Community Health). 1-2 p.m. Join Lori Hager, MS, RD, for our bimonthly healthy heart cooking class. Have some fun learning how to cook nutritious and delicious heart-healthy meals. Exploring heart-healthy ingredients and cooking techniques.
Dr. Sara Ali
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