City to host first Prop Swap Yard Sale
By JOe eMANSKi
Bordentown has earned its well-deserved reputation as a place where people are into Halloween.
There is the city’s annual Halloween parade, and of course the tradition of Halloween house decorating that is not just fun, but growing every year. The parade marked its 50th anniversary in 2023.
It makes sense that a small town where the streets are narrow and the houses close together would be the sort of place where people can really make the most of the occasion.
Each year, it seems, the bar is raised in terms of who can outdo whom in the department of spooky, over-the-top decorating. For some residents, there is no Halloween off season. They are planning for and budgeting for next year’s theme practically from the day the last year’s Halloween ends.
It’s not just in Bordentown where Halloween traditions are big and getting bigger. “Halloween stuff is in the stores already,” says Katy McGowan, who spoke to the Current last month. “It’s July.”
McGowan is an important person on Bordentown’s Halloween scene. The all-volunteer Bordentown Consolidated Fire
Association is the sponsor for the parade and many other Halloween-themed events in town, and McGowan is chair of the parade. She has been involved with it since 2009, and her father, Steve, who died that year, was one of the first chairs of the parade.
Starting this month, McGowan and the Consolidated Fire Association will be bringing another of what they hope is an annual Halloween tradition: The first ever Bordentown “Prop Swap Yard Sale.”
The sale event is set to take place on Aug. 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Crosswicks Street. Vendors and neighbors from Bordentown and beyond will have Halloween decorations for sale, and members of the community are invited to stop by to see if there is anything they would like to be able to use to decorate their homes this October.
The event committee made 20 tables available for the inaugural event. McGowan said that they originally envisioned it as an opportunity for members of the Bordentown community to sell and/or exchange their decorations. But Bordentown is not the only community where Halloween home decorating is a big thing, and some of the tables
the age of 74.
Bender remembered as family man, legendary baseball coach
By JuStiN FeiL
Rich Bender’s coaching success put him among the top 10 winningest baseball coaches in New Jersey high school state history.
And while he became a household name over 43 seasons after starting the Delran program, the longtime Bordentown resident was much more than just a great coach.
He was a beloved father, grandfather, friend, mentor and teacher.
“He really did separate it pretty well,” said Bender’s wife, Sue. “We knew what was going on and all that, but he really did separate it. When he came home, he was home pretty much.”
Bender passed away on July 4.
He would have been 75 on Aug. 2. Hundreds of former students, players, neighbors, classmates and family paid their respects at his viewing and funeral.
“He was a legend,” said Lawrence High baseball coach Jim Maher, a rival coach who became a good friend. “He was a legend as a coach. He was a great family man, a great
BeNder, Page 12
Sue and Rich Bender sit at a family get-together with their family. Rich Bender died on July 4 at
RWJUH Hamilton August Healthy Living / Community Education Programs
ADULT CHILDREN CARING FOR PARENTS
Mondays, Aug. 4 & 18; 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
8/4: Signs that Your Loved One Might Need Assistance
8/18: Home Care vs. Placement
Providing care and support for your parents later in their lives can be difficult and taxing. A caregiver specialist will moderate and facilitate this supportive group experience.
MOMMY & ME CRAFTING GROUP
Tuesday, Aug. 5; 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Enjoy time bonding with your little one through simple crafts designed to help mothers enjoy the simple moments life brings. This class is for children ages 2-5 with a focus on creative expression and building fine-motor skills.
BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, Aug. 5; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Presented by our oncology nurse navigator and certified oncology social worker at The Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton, this support group welcomes those who have received a breast cancer diagnosis in all phases of their journey, and offers participants an opportunity to share personal experiences, helpful resources, and methods of coping with feelings of anxiety and distress. Please call 609.584.2836 to confirm attendance.
THE POWER OF FOOD: NUTRITION STRATEGIES FOR DIABETES
Monday, Aug. 11; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Join our monthly series to learn how
A SOCIAL HOUR ESPECIALLY FOR
Wednesday, August 6, 13, 20, & 27; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
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, Aug. 11; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
This program aims to provide muchneeded 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.
REIKI REFRESHER
Wednesday, Aug. 13; 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Have you been Reiki Certified, and it’s been a while since you’ve practiced?
Do you wonder if you still “have it”? Yes, you do! Join us for an evening of rediscovery. Fee: $20
PREDIABETES CONNECT GROUP
Tuesday, Aug. 19; 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, Aug. 19; 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
This program is facilitated by Roberta Weiner, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C, Certified Oncology Social Worker, at The Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton. This support 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 change during and after treatment, and managing concerns about recurrence. This support group meets at The Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton, 2575 Klockner Rd., Hamilton, NJ. For more information or to register, call 609584-6680.
MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS
Wednesday, Aug. 20; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Learn how to help heal your body and relax your busy mind. No experience necessary.
EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE HOME
Wednesday, Aug. 20; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Experiencing emotions, whether positive or negative, is not a problem. It is what we do with those emotions that counts. This seminar will help parents explore how to increase their emotional intelligence at home for better understanding, communication, and relationships.
WII GAMES
Friday, Aug. 22; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Join RWJ Rehabilitation at RWJUH Hamilton for this fun hour of Wii games and learn about safe mechanics. Mastering body movement is the key to safe living. Play smart, move like a pro, and stay in the game longer!
HEART-HEALTHY NUTRITION
Monday, Aug. 25; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Join us for our bimonthly nutrition education class. Learn about
SENIORS
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
Thursday, August 7 & 14; 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, August 8 & 22; 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Join us for good wholesome fun – let’s play a game!
Sharpen your skills or jump back into something you always enjoyed. 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!
A BETTER HEALTH PROGRAM: GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE CRAFTING WITH CLAY, RWJUH HAMILTON
Wednesday, August 13; 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Thursday, August 14; 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Clay is one of the oldest known materials for creative expression. As we push and pull the clay into shape, we enter into a dialogue with ourselves and each other and form a visual language of our collective ideas. The focus is on hand-building techniques using air-dry clay. Adaptable to all skill levels, from beginner to expert. Please only register for one date.
making dietary choices that support cardiovascular health. Discuss the principles of heart-healthy nutrition. Gain tips for meal planning and preparation. Explore heart-healthy recipes.
CREATIVE ARTS: JUNK JOURNALING
Tuesday, Aug. 26; 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Junk journaling is a stress-reducing activity that allows you to express yourself through creativity. This unique way of journaling involves repurposing old items and transforming them into beautiful and personal works of art. Grab some “junk” and get crafty while working on your mental health and wellness.
STROKE SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, Aug. 26; 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.
CREATE YOUR OWN VISION BOARD
Wednesday, Aug. 27; 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Create a physical manifestation of what you would like to be, do or have, and bring your dreams to life! Please bring scissors; all other materials are provided.
NOURISH YOUR BRAIN: COOKING FOR BRAIN HEALTH
Friday, August 15; 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Have some fun while learning recipes that can help fuel your brain.
YOGA CLASSES
Tuesday, August 19 & 26; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.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, August 19 & 26; 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.
MENTAL HEALTH SERIES: BEYOND TRAUMA
Wednesday, Aug. 27; 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
This psychoeducation group focuses on understanding how you can be influenced by your past trauma. This session will create a safe environment that will empower you to begin your journey towards healing.
REIKI SHARE
Wednesday, Aug. 27; 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
For folks who have been Reiki certified to come share the gift with fellow practitioners. Give a session, get a session.
WISE WOMEN DISCUSSION GROUP: LET’S TALK MOVIES
Thursday, Aug. 28; 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Join a community of women as we discuss relevant topics and find purpose, meaning and community.
WANT THESE PROGRAMS EMAILED TO YOU
SCAN THE QR CODE TO JOIN OUR MAILING LIST
*All programs require registration and are held at the RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd., Hamilton, NJ, unless otherwise noted.
CHAIR YOGA
Tuesday, August 19 & 26; 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.
TO BECOME A BETTER HEALTH MEMBER FOR FREE
SCAN THIS QR CODE
Scan QR code to view, learn more & register on-line for the programs listed above. Or visit rwjbh.org/HamiltonPrograms Email CommunityEdHam@rwjbh.org
BORDENTOWN Home for Funerals
aROUnD tOWn Environmental Commission welcomes newest member
Bordentown Township has welcomed the newest member of its Environmental Commission: Jessica Wilson.
carbon and water footprint. Her hobbies include running and crafting.
Wilson graduated from the Batten Honors College of Virginia Wesleyan University in 2025. While there, she studied earth and environmental science and sustainability management.
Wilson graduated from Bordentown Regional High School in 2021. There she led BRHS Sustainability and Interact Clubs before going on to head up Virginia Wesleyan’s Environmental Club in college. She has also served as the United Nations PRME Global Students Regional Leader for North America.
The Learning Experience holds grand opening at last
The Learning Experience in Bordentown officially celebrated its Grand Opening on July 12 with a ribbon-cutting celebration.
While the center has been open and enriching the lives of young learners for nearly a year, this weekend marked the formal celebration of its place in the Bordentown community.
The event took place at the facility located at 400 Kevin Johnson Blvd. N. and was attended by local officials including Mayor Eric Holliday and Deputy Mayor Wilson
Professionally speaking, Wilson works as a manufacturing sustainability associate at Church & Dwight, where she focuses on reducing the corporation’s
See NeWS, Page 6
Current Bordentown
We are a newsroom of your neighbors. The Bordentown Current is for local people, by local people. As part of the community, the Current 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
Justin Feil
CONtriButiNg COLuMNiSt
Peter Tucci
Ad LAyOut ANd PrOduCtiON
Stacey Micallef (Ext. 131)
SeNiOr ACCOuNt eXeCutiVe
Jennifer Steffen (Ext. 113)
Community News Service 9 Princess Road, Suite M Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
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Eugene Fuzy, who helped commemorate the occasion with a ceremonial ribbon cutting.
The Learning Experience Academy of of Early Education offers day-care and preschool programs. The Bordentown location of The Learning Experience is owned by Jyoti and Kiran Jhurani. Center directors are Casey Bonchi and Jyot Patel. On the web: thelearningexperience.com/centers/bordentown.
County seeks poll workers for November’s general election
The Burlington County Board of Elections is seeking -minded residents interested in serving as poll workers during this year’s general election.
By law, perspective poll workers must be United States citizens and residents of Burlington County. Poll workers 18 and older must also be registered to vote and declared either a Republican or Democrat.
No experience is needed, but in-person training is required. Poll workers must be available to work Election Day on Nov. 4.
Poll worker duties include unlocking voting machines and equipment, putting out supplies, setting up electronic pollbooks, voter sign-in and processing, assisting voters, closing polls and picking up and returning supplies.
All poll workers will be paid a minimum of $300 for working on Election Day. Poll workers will also receive pay for training, provided they work on Election Day.
“Our democracy depends on free and fair elections, and this is an opportunity for both Democrats and Republicans to serve their communities and help their fellow citizens exercise their fundamental right,” said Burlington County Board of Elections Chair Heather Cheesman.
Prospective poll workers should be able to read and write legibly and be available to work from approximately 5:15 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Election Day.
Applications are available online at co.burlington.nj.us/297/Election-Board at the link “Board Worker Application.”
The Learning Experience in Bordentown held its grand opening celebration on July 12. (Photo courtesy of Bordentown Township.)
NeWS continued from Page 4
BI-MONTHLY NEWS FROM CAPITAL HEALTH
City of Trenton Awarded Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s Culture of Health Prize
The City of Trenton, New Jersey is one of nine communities from across the United States to receive the 2024 Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) Culture of Health Prize. The prize recognizes communities that are committed to finding healthier and more equitable solutions to structural racism and other injustices.
“As the only hospital in Trenton, Capital Health has been a driving force in creating an environment where all residents have the opportunity to thrive,” said Al Maghazehe, president and CEO of Capital Health. “Our responsibility extends well beyond the scope of traditional care, and we are proud of the role we played to help our city join the ranks of RWJF Culture of Health Prize alumni, all of whom are committed to building a healthier future for their communities.”
“Every community faces its own unique health challenges, and Capital Health has been helping Trenton residents navigate them for more than 125 years,” said Dr. Eric Schwartz, vice president of Community Health and Transformation and executive director of Capital Health Institute for Urban Care. “Outside the walls of our hospitals, we remain committed to working with community partners like the city’s health care providers, local government, and churches, schools, and food banks throughout the city to create a safer and healthier environment for our neighbors.”
Capital Health and its Institute for Urban Care currently lead or provide support by working with community partners for programs for Trenton residents:
… The Violence Intervention for the Community Through Outreach Recovery (VICTORY) program aims to break the cycle of violence by reaching out to victims of violence when they receive medical treatment at the Bristol Myers Squibb Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center.
… The Maternal and Infant Health Innovation (MIHI) Authority reduces maternal and infant mortality with a focus on black and brown birthing people. An MIHI Center is being built in Trenton with Capital Health as one of three lead tenants.
… Family Connects is now a statewide home-visiting program for growing families. When Trenton stepped up to be the pilot for the program, Capital Health and other partners provided home visits and referrals to thousands of growing families and ensured that most of them completed the critical post-partum visit. For My Baby and Me provides comprehensive services for pregnant people impacted by opioid use disorder.
… Mobile Food Pantry events, in partnership with the Arm in Arm Hunger Prevention program and Trenton Area Soup Kitchen, are held weekly at health clinics in Trenton.
In addition, Capital Health’s Trenton Neighborhood Initiative works with Trenton Health Team and other community partners to address the social determinants that influence the health of Trenton residents.
To learn more about Capital Health’s Institute for Urban Care, visit capitalhealth.org/urbancare.
To learn more about Capital Health’s Trenton Neighborhood Initiative, visit tnitrenton.org.
Capital Health Among Nation’s Top Performing Hospitals for Treatment of Heart Attack Patients
Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell has received the American College of Cardiology’s (ACC) NCDR Chest Pain MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2025. Home to the first hospital in the Mercer/Bucks County region to receive full accreditation with PCI as a Chest Pain Center, Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell is one of only 323 hospitals nationwide to receive the Platinum Performance Achievement Award. The award recognizes Capital Health’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients and signifies that the Chest Pain Center at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell has reached an aggressive goal of treating these patients to standard levels of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations.
“This accreditation from the ACC validates the unwavering dedication of our entire team,” said Dr. Lara Samson, medical director of Capital Health’s Chest Pain Center. “It also demonstrates to our patients and the larger community that we remain up-to-date on the latest best practices, and they can expect to receive the highest quality emergency cardiac care backed by data from other leading programs across the country.”
“Receiving the Platinum Performance Achievement Award is a big step for our Chest Pain Center, which has been consistently recognized by the ACC for excellence in heart attack care,” said Harit Desai, medical director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at Capital Health. “As part of the ACC registry, the significant contributions our doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals make to quality improvement here at Capital Health also help establish higher national standards for similar programs throughout the United States.”
To receive the Chest Pain MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award, Capital Health has demonstrated sustained achievement in the Chest Pain MI Registry for two consecutive years (2023 and 2024) and performed at the highest level for specific performance measures. Full participation in the registry engages hospitals in a robust quality improvement process using data to drive improvements in adherence to guideline recommendations and overall quality of care provided to heart attack patients.
If you or someone you know is having a heart attack, calling 911 should be your first step to talk with a trained dispatcher and have an ambulance sent to your location as quickly as possible. Treatment can begin on site when the ambulance arrives and may include medication and EKG testing. If on-site testing determines that a heart attack is occurring, Capital Health’s pre-hospital alert system immediately mobilizes specialized medical teams in the Emergency Department and Cardiac Catheterization Lab at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell to perform additional testing or an emergency procedure as needed when the patient arrives.
To learn more about Capital Health’s Chest Pain Center, visit www.capitalchestpain.org. Call 911 immediately if you or someone you know is experiencing the signs and symptoms of a heart attack.
Capital Health Heart and Vascular Institute offers comprehensive care with a multi-specialty approach highlighted by the most up-to-date techniques and treatment options. With multiple locations throughout the greater Mercer and Bucks county region, the Institute features the most sophisticated technology guided by highly trained clinical experts. For more information, visit www.capitalheartandvascular.org.
Structural Issues Force Emergency Closure of Leased Capital Health Satellite Emergency Department Space
Recently, Capital Health learned that space it is leasing from Trinity Health at the former St. Francis campus needed to begin shutdown activities immediately.
This included a shutdown of the Satellite Emergency Department and the outpatient clinic located on Bert Avenue in Trenton (cross street of Hamilton Avenue). Capital Health was advised by structural engineers, architects, and demolition experts that significant structural issues with another adjoining building posed a threat to the integrity and safety of the building these medical services were located in. To protect the safety of employees, patients, visitors, and students, the health care system had no choice but to cease operations at this location without delay.
As a result, as of June 5, the Satellite Emergency Department no longer accepts patients. The outpatient clinic closed as of June 4, with patients being diverted to other facilities for medical care (see sidebar).
For patients in need of emergency and acute care medical services, Capital Health operates two other comprehensive emergency departments and inpatient hospitals in Mercer County — one on Brunswick Avenue at Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton (around two miles away), and another one at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell on Scotch Road in Pennington (just over eight miles away).
Emergency medical services (EMS) agencies have been asked to take ambulance transports to other area emergency departments. Patients with emergency medical conditions should call 911 so EMS can transport them to an appropriate emergency department. Patients who choose to transport themselves for medical care should not come to the Hamilton Avenue campus and should instead go to another area emergency department.
Patients who typically used the outpatient clinic for primary or specialty care will be cared for at Capital Health’s 433 Bellevue Avenue and 832 Brunswick Avenue locations. Patients who utilize the clinics can call 609.815.7296 for help with any questions they may have.
“We are deeply frustrated and disappointed by the circumstances that have led to the emergency closure of our Satellite Emergency Department and other services in East Trenton. Since assuming services from St. Francis two years ago, and leasing this space from Trinity Health, our staff has worked tirelessly to preserve services in the
Patients who used the outpatient clinic at Capital Health – East Trenton for primary or specialty care can call 609.815.7296 to find a clinic at one of the following Trenton locations:
Capital Health Family Health Center 433 Bellevue Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08618
Capital Health Primary Care – Brunswick Avenue 832 Brunswick Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08638
city and at this location,” said Al Maghazehe, president and CEO of Capital Health. “With the former St. Francis location no longer safe for us to occupy, we will be working to identify the best path forward to ensure Trentonians, and those in close proximity to this location, have continued access to the care they need. We will work closely with the city, other partners, and the community as we move forward.”
Capital Health Family Health Center
Capital Health Primary Care – Brunswick Avenue
Not Feeling Well? Try Virtual Care
Capital Health Virtual Care, part of Capital Health Medical Group, offers telehealth services to individuals age 16 and older who wish to receive support in managing common health issues from the comfort of their home or anywhere in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
Capital Health’s team of more than 50 virtual primary care providers can address a wide range of health conditions, including (but not limited to) symptoms of COVID-19, sinus problems, upper respiratory infection, sore throat, urinary tract infection, cough, flu, rash, common cold, eye infection, and more.
To learn more or to request an appointment, visit capitalvirtualcare.org or scan the QR code to complete the online form.
WHAT WE CAN TREAT DURING A VIRTUAL CARE VISIT
During virtual care visits with patients who aren’t feeling well, our clinicians address symptoms of numerous health conditions and issues, including but not limited to:
… COVID-19
… Sinusitis
… Upper respiratory infection
… Sore throat
… Urinary tract infection
… Cough
… Influenza (Flu)
… Rash
… Common cold
… Yeast infection
… Allergies
… Eye infection
… Insect bites
… Nausea
… Back pain
… Tick bites
teacher. There was a lot about teaching, coaching and family life.”
Bender was a local product. He went to Hamilton High, where he met and began dating Sue. He’s in their Athletic Hall of Fame. He played basketball and baseball at Mercer County Community College and then played baseball at Rider University. The high school sweethearts married in 1973, and he coached through the first 45 years of their marriage (he was an assistant before head coach) until he retired after the 2018 season.
“I knew what I was getting into,” Sue said with a laugh. “I knew it was gonna be a while.”
The coaching numbers are staggering. He coached 43 seasons — though he submitted his resignation after his third season when Delran didn’t have a baseball field of its own and he tired of driving back and forth to their practice field. Three weeks later, he changed his mind and went back. The athletic director never had accepted his resignation, and Bender coached 40 more seasons until before the 2019 season.
“He would not have retired if he didn’t have to, but it was just getting too hard in that the baseball field that they did build was too far away from the school
and he was having trouble getting back and forth and having the strength,” Sue said. “I kept trying to talk him into maybe being an assistant coach or whatever, but he wouldn’t hear it. He had to do it all. He either had to do it all or nothing.”
Bender retired as the winningest coach in South Jersey history with a record of
672-349. He won state titles in 1983 and 1995. Delran won five more sectional championships. His 1995 team went 25-1 and was ranked tops in the state and ninth nationally. His teams placed first or second in their Burlington County Scholastic League divisions 28 times using a pure style of the game, a small-ball version that became his trademark.
best out of you and you walk the line for him and you stay in line,” Goodwin said. “Then when you get on the other side where you’re coaching with him, you see more of the humor with him, like that off the field side of him, where he’s a much more laid back, much, much more funny type of guy.”
* * *
Bender’s three children — Lori Bender Flynn, Jason Bender and Jared Bender — saw different parts of their dad’s coaching success and personality, but to them he was always a dad first. Bender often took the boys on weekends to be bat boys for his Delran team.
As they got older and began to play high school themselves, they appreciated better what everyone had been saying and writing about him. Through the years, the children came to realize he was this larger than life coach outside of their home.
“I think I knew that he was a legend,” said Lori, the eldest of the three. “I didn’t know it was this huge. I mean, he was just my dad. I didn’t pay attention to a lot of that other stuff.”
“He was a combination of everything: preparation, competitiveness, the kids played hard, and to me his teams played like high school baseball should be played,” Maher said. “It’s a lot different from the way the game is now, especially at the major league level when nobody bunts, nobody hits-and-runs.”
Bender always followed his own children’s and grandchildren’s pursuits. Jason played soccer and baseball at Notre Dame High. Jared played three sports and was inducted into the Bordentown Regional High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2003-2004. He played soccer at Rutgers University. One of his favorite memories was playing finally for his father with the Bordentown Legion baseball team.
Jim Goodwin took over at Delran when Bender stepped down. Goodwin is one of 24 father-son combinations that played for Bender over his coaching career. He’d known “Papa Bear,” as many called Bender, since he was 4. Goodwin also was an assistant to Bender.
“As a player, you know him as this tough, hard-nosed guy that just wants the
“That was awesome,” Jared said. “And I promise I’m not saying it because he’s my dad, he really was easily one of the best coaches in any sport I played for. He’s just so detailed and he was tough, but all the players loved him.”
Early in the Legion season, when he didn’t run out a groundout hard enough, his dad took him out of the game. Jared started to bring it up when they got home, but the lesson had already been learned
Rich Bender retired as Delran baseball coach after the 2018 season.
and Bender kept the game separate from their home life.
“He was always supportive,” Jared said. “It honestly didn’t matter what we did or what sports we played or any of that. His whole thing was just have fun and if you’re going to do it, do it 100 percent.”
Bender coached Jason’s Bordentown travel soccer team as well as rec teams through the years. In Delran’s annual tournament, he invited Notre Dame when Jason played there and Bordentown when Jared played for the Scotties.
In those games, he let his assistant call the pitches against his sons. He put his family first, and that’s what stood out to his children.
“The biggest thing I admired is that his number one priority in his life was his family and nothing, absolutely nothing would could before it,” Lori said. “He kept us together. He kept us going strong because of that value. That’s one big, big thing. And that he is probably one of the most organized people I’ve ever met in my life. He was very, very regimented on a program. And he loved his family.” He supported what they wanted to do. And he supported them when they didn’t want to do something. Lori was 6 when she tried soccer.
“I was freezing and they were all sitting in the car and I sat right down on the
field,” she recalled. “He didn’t say anything to me. He just carried me off and we never spoke about it again and I didn’t play any sports.”
He was the same way as a mentor. He showed unconditional care for coaching peers. He helped to mold Goodwin into the person he is today.
“I was lucky where he was like an extra grandfather to me,” Goodwin said. “He was someone that I could reach out to early on in my coaching career and be like, hey, Coach, I know you’ve dealt with parents, or I know you’ve dealt with administration and on the field stuff, umpires, how would you go about this situation? And he was able to give me advice and really help me.”
he was at all their dancing competitions and watching all the dances, which is like something he would never do, but because it was them...”
Said Sue: “He also enjoyed them, which nobody believed that he would get as into that as he did. But he did.”
Five of Bender’s grandchildren are girls. They have played soccer and cheered and danced. Lori’s younger daughter, Lia, is looking at playing college softball and following her mom’s footsteps as a speech therapist after her senior year at Northern Burlington, where Bender once coached a few years of basketball.
Philadelphia Phillies’ 2008 World Series.
“It was a little place for him to retreat and what all his favorite teams,” Sue said. “That was really cool. They were up there every Eagles game, and sometimes I was up there. It was mostly the family, but a few friends here and there. And I guess the last time he was up there was the Super Bowl.”
Bender loved his family time, and so many family gatherings were spent at their Bordentown home. It was another facet of his life, away from proving he knew how to win and how to get the most out of his players and teams. Both were important to him over the five decades. His family will never forget him, and many believe Delran shouldn’t either.
When his six grandchildren came along, Bender enjoyed a new generation of family pursuits. Gavin Shiver, Jared’s stepson, was a 1,000-point scorer at Bordentown.
“He came to every one of his basketball games, so that’s kind of a real unique and special thing for us,” Jared said. “And then all the girls, whatever they did, he was there. Here’s a big sports guy and
“I feel sad about the fact that he won’t know where Lia ends up,” Lori said. “I mean, he will know, but I just wish she could have known that before he passed what she was going to do.”
Bender did relish another Super Bowl win for his beloved Eagles this past winter, watching from the renowned “Eagles Nest” upstairs in their Bordentown house. Jared converted the bedroom that he and Jason shared into a man cave of sorts in time for their dad to enjoy the
“I don’t know how they have not named that field after him,” Maher said. “Every time I see somebody from Delran over the last 10 years, I would say, how have you people not named that field after him? I mean he was their only coach from ’76 to 2018, won state championships, had 600 wins, all the kids that he impacted.”
Only the Delran stadium currently is named for a past administrator. The Delran baseball team will wear “RB” patches this year in honor of their first-ever coach Rich Bender, and Goodwin hopes the school district takes Maher’s advice soon.
“I feel the same way,” he said. “It should be Papa Bear Field.”
St. George Preschool
Bender
will be taken by people from other New Jersey towns.
“The purpose of the event is to give folks an outlet to sell or make room for more Halloween decorations,” McGowan said. “Bordentown is a big Halloween town — we have a Halloween parade, we do Halloween house decorating contests, we have a scarecrow contest. We thought about using the Hallowing Prop Swap Yard Sale to sell Halloween decorations in a small space where there’s a lot of people who like Halloween decorations.”
McGowan said that while the event will all take place in a single location, it will have the feel of a community yard sale. “Each vendor will have their own table set up. We are allowing people to bring any sort of Halloween decorations, indoor or outdoor. They can be homemade decorations, they can be store-bought decorations from Home Depot or Spirit of Halloween. We’ll have a variety of both indoor and outdoor decorations that you can be using for your home.”
Throughout Bordentown, there are certain streets where visitors know they can expect to see a multitude of decorated houses each October. Thompson Street was one, although its residents have not been as active in recent years.
Brooks Avenue is another. Halloween committee member Neil Laswell is a resident who regularly takes part. “Brooks Avenue for Halloween is a big pull in our town,” McGowan said.
Nor is Halloween fervor limited to Bordentown City. More than 30 residents, plus some entire streets, entered into the 2024 Halloween House Decorating Competition, with first prize going to the house at 251 Grover Ave. in Bordentown Township. Three homeowners in Fieldsboro also took part in the event.
McGowan admits that the idea for the Prop Swap Yard Sale was not an original one. “We did pull the idea from somebody else four hours away, in Pennsylvania,” she said. “They have a great response and they’ve been doing it for about seven years. Neil and I were aware of that yard sale and wanted to bring something similar to Bordentown.”
McGowan said response to the Bordentown version of the event was also shaping up to be solid.
“It’s our first year, so we’re going to be doing the event at the firehouse and the adjacent parking lot of the funeral home (Bordentown Home for Funerals). Half the space is taken, and we have room for 10 more,” McGowan said. “We seem to be pulling a lot of people to sell from outside
A Bordentown house decorated “Beetlejuice” style for Halloween. Decorations like these will be available at the first “Prop Swap” event set to be held Aug. 16.
of Bordentown. I have folks coming from way down in South Jersey, big people on the Halloween house decorating scene down there. Someone from the border
of New York and New Jersey is coming down. I think it’s good for Bordentown folks to see props and decorations from people outside of town.”
The event will have a mix of pre-owned and new items for sale. “Our original thought was that we would have a lot of preowned items, but we have had some people come in that have a bit more of indoor decorations, maybe make it a bit more of a crafty fair,” McGowan said. Only Halloween items will be permitted to be sold at the event.
This being the first year for the event, McGowan says that the committee is hoping to learn and grow from the experience. “We are looking for this to be an idea year,” she said. “In the years to come, maybe we’re going to outgrow the space and have to move to a bigger location. So far there seems to be a lot of interest. So we’ll see how it goes and go on from there.”
The cost for a table is $20 and prospective vendors are asked to register by Aug. 9 at bordentownhalloween.com. Set up will start at 9 a.m., with the sale beginning at 10. Smachna Kawa Coffee Shop is set to support the event, offering food and drinks for sale. The Consolidated Fire Association is located at 20 Crosswicks St. in Bordentown.
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.
FridAy, AuguSt 1
HomeFront’s Back to School drive, HomeFront. 9 a.m. Annual campaign for clothing, shoes, backpacks, school supplies, and gift cards for over 1,500 children in the community impacted by poverty. For info email getinvolved@homefrontnj.org.
Drop-off items by Aug. 11 to ensure items get to families in time for the first day of school. Donation center open at 1880 Princeton Ave., Lawrence Monday–Friday
from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. 1880 Princeton Avenue, Lawrenceville.
Sunset Sips & Sounds, Terhune Orchards. 12 p.m. Terhune wine and music. Musical styles range from jazz and blues to folk and rock. Music from 5-8 p.m. Winery open noon-8 p.m. Barn Door Cafe open for dinner and light bites. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
First Friday Farm Fun, Cherry Grove Farm. 3 p.m. Summer hayride, vendors, kids’ activities, music, yoga and more. cherrygrovefarm.com. 3200 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrenceville.
undiluted Petty, Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn. 5:30 p.m. Live musical tribute to Tom Petty, buffet and fireworks show. Tickets $78 per person. Doors open at 5:30, dinner at 6, show starts at 7 p.m. Call 609-397-8300 ext. 500 to get tickets. 11 Bridge St., Lambertville.
Live Music on the Patio: Curnie, Nassau Inn. 6 p.m. 10 Palmer Square W, Princeton. Mahoning Valley Scrappers at trenton thunder, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 7 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton. the Ballad of Mulan, Kelsey Theatre. 7 p.m. Presented by Huaxia Chinese School at Plainsboro. The ancient Chinese tale of Mulan is brought to life in a multidisciplinary performance. Poetry, music, songs, dances, and Chinese martial arts, narrated in Chinese and English. kelseytheatre.org. 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor. Mike Keegan and Carla Oakerson, Catch a Rising Star, Hyatt Regency Princeton. 8 p.m. 102 Carnegie Center, Princeton. Movie Nights on the green, On the Green at Palmer Square. 8:30 p.m. Free admission. Bring blanket or lawn chair. palmersquare. com. 40 Nassau Street, Princeton. the Williamsboy, Trenton Tir Na nOg. 9 p.m. 1324 Hamilton Ave, Trenton.
SAturdAy, AuguSt 2
toy Library, First Presbyterian Church. 9:30 a.m. Bring toys or tokens on the shopping day to exchange for new-to-you toys. Receive tokens by contributing. cityofbordentown.com/events. 420 Farnsworth Ave, Bordentown.
First Saturday Wellness Walk: insects are Hot!, Northern Community Park. 10 a.m. With entomologist Eugene M. Fuzy. Guided hike that features insects found within the Abbott Marshlands. Must register at abbottmarshlands.org. 50 Groveville Road, Bordentown.
SuNdAy, AuguSt 3
the Ballad of Mulan, Kelsey Theatre. Shows at 1 and 4 p.m. The ancient Chinese tale of Mulan is brought to life in a multidisciplinary performance. Poetry, music, songs, dances, and Chinese martial arts, narrated in Chinese and English. kelseytheatre.org. 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor. Summer Music Series: Peter Maness & the Master Keys, On the Green at Palmer Square. 1 p.m. Rescheduled from June 14. Live music. 40 Nassau Street, Princeton. Family Sundays at the Nature Center, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 1:30 p.m. Naturalistguided program geared towards families. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Ave, Hamilton.
the Ballad of Mulan, Kelsey Theatre. 4 p.m. Presented by Huaxia Chinese School at Plainsboro. The ancient Chinese tale of Mulan is brought to life in a multidisciplinary performance. Poetry, music, songs, dances, and Chinese martial arts, narrated in Chinese and English. Fri. Aug. 1, 2025 at 7pm, Sat. Aug. 2 at 1pm & 4pm, Sun. Aug. 3 at 1pm & 4pm. 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor.
Mahoning Valley Scrappers at trenton thunder, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 5 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton. the Spongebob Musical, Music Mountain Theatre. 8 p.m. Based on the TV series. 1483 NJ-179, Lambertville.
tueSdAy, AuguSt 5
Just Peachy, Terhune Orchards Vineyard & Winery. 10 a.m. Pony rides, games and barnyard tractors, Little Tikes Farm Store and Junior Mechanics Shop, rubber duck races and scavenger hunt. Live music from noon to 4 p.m. terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
Honey Harvest, Howell Living History Farm. 10 a.m. With the hives open and the bees on their best behavior, the Howell Farm beekeeper invites visitors to look inside the supers and meet the worker bees! Next, you can help uncap and extract this year’s crop of honey from the combs, then have a taste and bottle some to take home. Hive opening at 11 a.m., honey extraction at 1 p.m. howellfarm.org. 70 Woodens Lane, Hopewell.
read & Pick: Flowers, Terhune Orchards. 9:30 a.m. Read a book about flowers, gardens and insects, then everyone will pick their own bunch of flowers. $12 per child, Sessions at 9:30 and 11 a.m. Must prepurchase at terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
Stand tall yoga, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. Taught by Cathy Frank, Friends outreach director and certified yoga instructor. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton.
MarketFair Summer Kids Club, MarketFair. 10 a.m. Tuesdays July 15 to Aug. 19. marketfairshoppes.com. 3535 US Highway 1 Princeton, NJ 08540, Princeton.
Story time and Craft Program, New Jersey State Museum. 12 p.m. Each week a different book and craft will be featured. 205 W State St, Trenton.
the Ballad of Mulan, Kelsey Theatre. Shows at 1 and 4 p.m. The ancient Chinese tale of Mulan is brought to life in a multidisciplinary performance. Poetry, music, songs, dances, and Chinese martial arts, narrated in Chinese and English. kelseytheatre.org.
1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor.
Mozzarella Stretch with Burrata Workshop, Cherry Grove Farm. 2 p.m. Make fresh mozzarella and burrata to take home. 3200 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrenceville. New yacht City, Hopewell Valley Vineyards. 5 p.m. Live yacht music and R&B-inspired music of the 70s and 80s. 46 Yard Rd, Pennington.
Mike Keegan and Carla Oakerson, Catch a Rising Star, Hyatt Regency Princeton. 7:30 p.m. 102 Carnegie Center, Princeton. the Spongebob Musical, Music Mountain Theatre. 8 p.m. Based on the TV series. 1483 NJ-179, Lambertville.
Author talk: Smithsonian Biologist Jay Falk 2 p.m. The Stories, Science, and History of Birds with Smithsonian Biologist Jay Falk, a Library Speakers Consortium and Smithsonian Institution Collaboration. Virtual event. Register at penningtonlibrary.org. , Pennington.
WedNeSdAy,
AuguSt 6
Wednesday Wonder Walk, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. Easy group walk in Roebling Park. Free. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton. Concerts on the Landing, Patriots Theater at the War Memorial. 12 p.m. Live music at lunchtime on the steps of the War Memorial. Rob Silvers 80s Undercover. 1 Memorial Drive, Trenton.
Summer Walk for young People, Roebling Park at Watson House Parking Lot. 6 p.m. An easy guided walk through Roebling Park
geared for teens and young adults. Must register at abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Ave, Hamilton.
Frederick Keys at trenton thunder, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 7 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton.
tHurSdAy, AuguSt 7
Frederick Keys at trenton thunder, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 7 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton.
Opera Carmen, Mercer County Community College. 7:30 p.m. 1200 Old Trenton Rd, Windsor.
FridAy, AuguSt 8
Sunset Sips & Sounds, Terhune Orchards. 12 p.m. Terhune wine and music. Musical styles range from jazz and blues to folk and rock. Music from 5-8 p.m. Winery open noon-8 p.m. Barn Door Cafe open for dinner and light bites. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
Live Music on the Patio - rob Messina, Nassau Inn. 6 p.m. 10 Palmer Square W, Princeton. Frederick Keys at trenton thunder, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 7 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton.
Opera Carmen, Mercer County Community College. 7:30 p.m. 1200 Old Trenton Rd, Windsor.
SAturdAy, AuguSt 9
Potato Harvest, Howell Living History Farm. 10 a.m. Follow behind workhorses Bill and Jesse as they unearth rows of potatoes for picking. howellfarm.org. 70 Woodens Lane, Hopewell.
Jasmine’s Nadas: Jeep Jam 2025, 960 Spruce Steet. 11 a.m. Trophies and prizes will be
given to the top in categories such as Best in Show, Most Muddiest/Best Beast, Best His & Hers, and People’s Choice. DJ and face painter. 960 Spruce St, Lawrence Twp, Lawrenceville.
Monthly Living History April 2025, Washington Crossing Historic Park. 11 a.m. Historical interpreters and reenactors bring to life various aspects on military life during the American Revolution. This month: artillery. washingtoncrossingpark.org. 1112 River Rd, Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania. August Sangria Weekends, Terhune Orchards. 12 p.m. Sangria paired with fresh fruits. Live music Saturday and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
Opera La Boheme, Mercer County Community College. 2 p.m. 1200 Old Trenton Rd, Windsor.
Night Hike, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 7 p.m. Hike through Roebling Memorial Park after hours to explore and observe all the nocturnal happenings in nature. Mercer County Park Commission Program. Must register at abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton.
Opera Opening gala Carmen, Mercer County Community College. 7:30 p.m. 1200 Old Trenton Rd, Windsor.
dave & ellen Anderson, Trenton Tir Na nOg. 9 p.m. 1324 Hamilton Ave, Trenton.
SuNdAy,
AuguSt 10
Foraging & Feasting, Cherry Grove Farm. 11 a.m. Identify and taste fresh edible weeds. These may include dandelion, mugwort, lamb’s quarters and more. Herbalist Tish will talk about how these plants can be See eVeNtS, Page 18
eVeNtS continued from Page 17 used as food and medicine. Includes a meal of a feast of dishes made with wild plants and Cherry Grove’s cheeses. cherrygrovefarm.com. 3200 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrenceville.
August Sangria Weekends, Terhune Orchards. 12 p.m. Sangria paired with fresh fruits. Live music Saturday and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
garden Work day, Lime Kiln Alley Park. 1 p.m. Bordentown City Environmental Commission garden work session. , Bordentown. Family Sundays at the Nature Center, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 1:30 p.m. Naturalistguided program geared towards families. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Ave, Hamilton.
Opera La Boheme, Mercer County Community College. 2 p.m. 1200 Old Trenton Rd, Windsor.
tueSdAy, AuguSt 12
Stand tall yoga, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. Taught by Cathy Frank, Friends outreach director and certified yoga instructor. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton.
MarketFair Summer Kids Club, MarketFair. 10 a.m. Tuesdays July 15 to Aug. 19. marketfairshoppes.com. 3535 US Highway 1 Princeton, NJ 08540, Princeton.
Story time and Craft Program, New Jersey State Museum. 12 p.m. Each week a different book and craft will be featured. 205 W State St, Trenton.
Williamsport Crosscutters at trenton thunder, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 7 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton.
WedNeSdAy, AuguSt 13
Wednesday Wonder Walk, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. Easy group walk in Roebling Park. Free. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton.
Concerts on the Landing, Patriots Theater at the War Memorial. 12 p.m. Live music at lunchtime on the steps of the War Memorial. Aug. 6: Rob Silvers - 80s Undercover. Aug. 13: Dennis Rogers – Funk/Classic Rock/R&B. 1 Memorial Drive, Trenton. Williamsport Crosscutters at trenton thun-
der, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 7 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton.
tHurSdAy, AuguSt 14
trivia Nights in the Winery, Terhune Orchards Vineyard & Winery. 5 p.m. With D.J. Iron Mike. terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
Wine & dine with Benjamin Franklin, Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn. 6:30 p.m. 11 Bridge St, Lambertville.
FridAy, AuguSt 15
Sunset Sips & Sounds, Terhune Orchards. 12 p.m. Terhune wine and music. Musical styles range from jazz and blues to folk and rock. Music from 5-8 p.m. Winery open noon-8 p.m. Barn Door Cafe open for dinner and light bites. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
Live Music on the Patio - Nuevo Jazz, Nassau Inn. 6 p.m. 10 Palmer Square W, Princeton. Movie Nights on the green, On the Green at Palmer Square. 8:30 p.m. Free admission. Bring blanket or lawn chair. palmersquare. com. 40 Nassau Street, Princeton.
SAturdAy, AuguSt 16
Abbott Amblers Community Walk: Abbott Bluffs/Brook Trail, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 8:30 a.m. Free, relaxed walks on Abbott Marshlands trails. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton. Halloween Prop Swap yard Sale, Bordentown Consolidated Fire House Association. 10 a.m. Consolidated Fire Association hosting first ever Halloween Prop Swap Yard sale. Browse tables to refresh your Halloween display. Vendors must register at bordentownhalloween.com. 20 Crosswicks Street, Bordentown. terhune Orchards 50th Anniversary Community Celebration, Terhune Orchards. 10 a.m. Live music, games, special anniversary activities, and interactive entertainment including: anniversary swag giveaways, customer photography show, special anniversary kids’ activities, giant anniversary cake, food pavilion with special anniversary treats, farm animals, wagon rides. The Farm Store, Wine Orchard, Barn Door Café and Pam’s Food Pavilion will offer farm favorites, and throwback specials.
terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
Lata Patel Bloom Bar Flower Arranging Workshop, Hopewell Valley Vineyards. 10 a.m. hopewellvalleyvineyards.com. 46 Yard Rd, Pennington.
Outwaters encampment, with Colonial Kids games & toys, Washington Crossing State Park. 10 a.m. Historian Clarissa Dillon leads a program on Colonial kids and their games. Washington Crossing-Pennington Road, Titusville.
Canning day & Pickling, Howell Living History Farm. 10 a.m. Learn the ins and outs of canning and help “put up” summer produce for use in the fall and winter. howellfarm.org. 70 Woodens Lane, Hopewell. Mary Street Block Party, Mary Street. 11 a.m. Join your neighbors and friends for a day full of fun on Mar y Street! Music, food, and good vibes! See you there!. , Bordentown.
August Sangria Weekends, Terhune Orchards. 12 p.m. Sangria paired with fresh fruits. Live music Saturday and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
Halo Pub: Music in the Alley, Halo Pub. 6 p.m. Live outdoor music. palmersquare.com. 9 Hulfish St, Princeton.
thomas Anders from Modern talking and Band, Patriots Theater at the War Memorial. 12 a.m. Live in concert. Celebrating 40 years of Modern Talking. Featuring Precious Wilson. nj.gov/state/memorial/index. shtml. 1 Memorial Drive, Trenton.
SuNdAy, AuguSt 17
August Sangria Weekends, Terhune Orchards. 12 p.m. Sangria paired with fresh fruits. Live music Saturday and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
Family Sundays at the Nature Center, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 1:30 p.m. Naturalistguided program geared towards families. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Ave, Hamilton.
dentistry in revolutionary America, Washington Crossing State Park. 2 p.m. The early history of dentistry. Presented by Marjy Wienkop. Washington Crossing-Pennington Road, Titusville.
MONdAy, AuguSt 18
green team Meeting. 7 p.m. 207 Crosswicks St, Bordentown.
tueSdAy, AuguSt 19
read & Pick: green Beans, Terhune Orchards Vineyard & Winery. 9:30 a.m. Sessions at 9:30 and 11 a.m. The cost is $12 per child. Must prepurchase tickets at terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton. Stand tall yoga, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. Taught by Cathy Frank, Friends outreach director and certified yoga instructor. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton.
MarketFair Summer Kids Club, MarketFair. 10 a.m. Tuesdays July 15 to Aug. 19. marketfairshoppes.com. 3535 US Highway 1 Princeton, NJ 08540, Princeton.
Story time and Craft Program, New Jersey State Museum. 12 p.m. Each week a different book and craft will be featured. 205 W State St, Trenton.
Webinar: A Pinelands road trip, New Jersey State Library. 12 p.m. Andrew Anderson from Double Trouble Village State Historic Site offers virtual tour of the sites of the Pinelands. Online only. njstatelib.org. 185 W State St, Trenton.
Open Mic with Jerry and John Monk, Trenton Tir Na nOg. 8 p.m. trentontirnanog.com. 1324 Hamilton Ave, Trenton.
WedNeSdAy, AuguSt 20
Wednesday Wonder Walk, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. Easy group walk in Roebling Park. Free. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton. Summer Walk for young People, Roebling Park at Watson House Parking Lot. 6 p.m. An easy guided walk through Roebling Park geared for teens and young adults. Must register at abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Ave, Hamilton. Frederick Keys at trenton thunder, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 7 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton.
tHurSdAy, AuguSt 21
August Business After Business, Haldeman Lexus of Princeton. 5 p.m. Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce networking event. princetonmercercham-
ber.org. 2630 Business Route 1 North, Lawrenceville.
Frederick Keys at trenton thunder, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 7 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton.
FridAy, AuguSt 22
Farmstead Friday, Washington Crossing Historic Park. 11 a.m. Learn about life on the Thompson-Neely Farmstead. August’s program will have demonstrators shepherding a flock of sheep, and processing their wool into yarn. washingtoncrossingpark.org. 1112 River Rd, Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania.
Sunset Sips & Sounds, Terhune Orchards. 12 p.m. Terhune wine and music. Musical styles range from jazz and blues to folk and rock. Music from 5-8 p.m. Winery open noon-8 p.m. Barn Door Cafe open for dinner and light bites. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
Live Music on the Patio: Paul Plumeri, Nassau Inn. 6 p.m. nassauinn.com. 10 Palmer Square W, Princeton.
Williamsport Crosscutters at trenton thunder, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 7 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton.
SAturdAy,
AuguSt 23
Fiddlin’ on the Farm, Howell Living History Farm. 10 a.m. Area musicians bring their talents to the farm during the annual contest sponsored by the Hunterdon Folk Exchange. Now in its 36th year, the contest is the largest and longest-running traditional fiddle contest in New Jersey. Fiddlers, guitarists, mandolinists and more. Contest begins at noon. Homemade food, ice cream, horse-drawn wagon rides, a children’s craft, and a closing performance featuring 30 fiddlers. howellfarm.org. 70 Woodens Lane, Hopewell.
drop-in Craft Hour: Perler Bead Magnets, Pennington Public Library. 11 a.m. Ages 6 and up. Available while supplies last. 30 North Main St, Pennington.
August Sangria Weekends, Terhune Orchards. 12 p.m. Sangria paired with fresh fruits. Live music Saturday and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
Williamsport Crosscutters at trenton thunder, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 6 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton.
SuNdAy, AuguSt 24
August Sangria Weekends, Terhune Orchards. 12 p.m. Sangria paired with fresh fruits. Live music Saturday and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
Summer goat yoga, Hopewell Valley Vineyards. 12 p.m. hopewellvalleyvineyards. com. 46 Yard Rd, Pennington.
Family Sundays at the Nature Center, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 1:30 p.m. Naturalistguided program geared towards families. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Ave, Hamilton.
Bach on Hilltop, Hilltop Park. 6:30 p.m. A night of classical and jazz music performed by a local resident in scenic Hilltop Park. Corner of Bank and Second Streets, Bordentown.
MONdAy, AuguSt 25
Abbott Amblers Community Walk: tNC to Spring Lake Loop, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 5:30 p.m. Free, relaxed walks on Abbott Marshlands trails. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton.
tueSdAy, AuguSt 26
read & Pick Apples, Terhune Orchards. 9:30 a.m. Read books about apples and Johnny Appleseed and pick a small container of apples. $12.00 per child. Sessions at 9:30 and 11 a.m. terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton. Stand tall yoga, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. Taught by Cathy Frank, Friends outreach director and certified yoga instructor. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton.
Story time and Craft Program, New Jersey State Museum. 12 p.m. Each week a different book and craft will be featured. 205 W State St, Trenton.
WedNeSdAy, AuguSt 27
Wednesday Wonder Walk, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. Easy group walk in Roebling Park. Free. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton.
Virtual Cooking Class: Wrap & roll. 7 p.m. With Vanessa Young, cooking instructor, writer, and educator. Must register at penningtonlibrary.org.
tHurSdAy, AuguSt 28
Blood drive at MarketFair, MarketFair. 10 a.m. Arriving donors can enter through MarketFair’s main entrance located by Jos A. Banks and follow the signs to the donation room. 3535 US Highway 1, Princeton.
FridAy, AuguSt 29
Sunset Sips & Sounds, Terhune Orchards. 12 p.m. Terhune wine and music. Musical styles range from jazz and blues to folk and rock. Music from 5-8 p.m. Winery open noon-8 p.m. Barn Door Cafe open for dinner and light bites. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
SAturdAy, AuguSt 30
Preserving the tomato Harvest, Cherry Grove Farm. 10 a.m. Hands-on workshop. Learn how to preserve tomatoes for cooking and take home a jar of tomato sauce that you have made. cherrygrovefarm.com. 3200 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrenceville.
August Sangria Weekends, Terhune Orchards. 12 p.m. Sangria paired with fresh fruits. Live music Saturday and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
Summer Music Series, On the Green at Palmer Square. 1 p.m. Live music. 40 Nassau Street, Princeton.
State College Spikes at trenton thunder, Trenton Thunder Ballpark. 6 p.m. 1 Thunder Road, Trenton.
SuNdAy, AuguSt 31
August Sangria Weekends, Terhune Orchards. 12 p.m. Sangria paired with fresh fruits. Live music Saturday and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
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 geared towards families. abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Ave, Hamilton.
the 42th Annual Howell Farm Plowing Match, Howell Living History Farm. 12 a.m. Today’s plowing kicks off a 10-month growing season for Howell Farm’s fall crops: wheat, rye, barley and spelt. howellfarm.org. 70 Woodens Lane, Hopewell.
Have library, will travel
Peter Tucci BORDENTOWN HISTORY
While Emperor Napoleon I sat on the throne of France from 1803 to 1815, he installed several of his brothers and sisters on other thrones across Europe. This included installing his older brother, Joseph, first as King of Naples (1806-1808) and then as King of Spain (1808-1813).
After Napoleon’s defeat at the Battle of Waterloo on June 18, 1815, Joseph escaped to the United States. After spending time in Philadelphia, in 1816 Joseph purchased land and built an elaborate estate called Point Breeze in Bordentown, New Jersey. His lavish chateau was furnished with the finest Empire-style mahogany furniture as well as over 200 paintings by European masters such as Rembrandt, Rubens, David, Titian and Vandyke. His chateau also contained
the largest library in America, with over 8,000 volumes. This was at the time when the Library of Congress in Washington had only 6,500 volumes.
Since Joseph was educated as a lawyer at the University of Pisa in Italy, many of his books were related to legal topics and government. He also had numerous books by the three famous Enlightenment-era French philosophes: Voltaire, Rousseau and Montesquieu.
He owned two copies of the famous French novel Paul et Virginie by Jacques-Henri Bernardin de Saint-Pierre. First published in 1788, this work tells the tragic love story about two youths who are marooned on the island of Mauritius. (The novel is the basis for the 1980 Brooke Shields movie The Blue Lagoon.) Joseph named certain sections of his Point Breeze estate after places referenced in Paul et Virginie.
Also on view at the Joseph Bonaparte Exhibition is a two-
volume copy of La Gerusalemme liberata (Jerusalem Delivered) by the Italian poet Torquato Tasso. Originally published in 1581, this epic recounts the First Crusade and its climactic battle for Jerusalem. Tasso was a prominent Italian poet of the late Renaissance, and this work helped shape the literary landscape of 16th-century
Europe.
Another highlight of the Joseph Bonaparte Exhibition is his travel library, consisting of miniature copies of many French classics. In 1808, Napoleon ordered his first travel library so he would have access to these written works when he was on campaigns in Russia and Prussia. These
portable libraries were stored in mahogany cases for ease of transport. The miniature library on view in Bordentown was given to Joseph by his younger brother — Napoleon.
In 1845, Joseph Bonaparte’s grandson, Joseph Lucien Bonaparte (the first prince ever born in the U.S.A.), inherited the estate and auctioned off the property, artwork, and library in two spectacular auctions: one in 1845 and the other in 1847. A copy of the 1845 auction of the Bonaparte library, along with other books mentioned, can be seen at the Joseph Bonaparte Exhibition at the Bordentown Historical Society.
For information about the Joseph Bonaparte Exhibit at the Bordentown Historical Society, contact BHS by phone (609) 298-1740 or email bordentownhistoricalsociety@ gmail.com.
Peter tucci is a member of the Bordentown Historical Society.
Some of Joseph Bonaparte’s private library collection can be seen at Point Breeze in Bordentown.
Reset your health before fall routines take over
Ask The Doctor
See our ads in SIX09 section pgs 5 and 7
As we enter August, many families— especially adults juggling work, parenting, and health responsibilities— begin to feel the weight of summer burnout. Long days, irregular schedules, disrupted routines, and mounting fall preparations can all lead to fatigue, stress, and overlooked health needs.
“The end of summer is the perfect time to pause, reset, and prioritize your family’s well-being before the rush of fall begins,” says Dr. Anjali Bhandarkar, MD, Internal Medicine Physician. “It’s an ideal time to check in with your own health, as well as the needs of your family.”
While most people focus on backto-school plans for children, adults are just as likely to feel the effects of this seasonal transition. Here are a few health-focused strategies to help the whole household head into September feeling balanced and recharged. Restore a Sleep Routine. Erratic
sleep schedules are a hallmark of summer, but adults and children alike function best with consistent, quality sleep. Begin resetting your routine now by going to bed and waking up 15 to 30 minutes earlier each day until you’re back on track.
“Sleep isn’t just about rest—it supports metabolism, immune function, and emotional regulation,” explains Dr. Bhandarkar. “Chronic sleep debt often leads to burnout, especially in working parents.”
Revisit Nutrition Habits. Summer eating can be heavy on convenience and light on structure. A return to routine is the perfect time to refocus on whole foods—vegetables, fruits, lean protein, and high-fiber grains. Preparing meals at home, even simple ones, gives you better control over portion sizes, sugar intake, and nutrition.
Encourage family involvement in meal prep to make it fun and sustainable. Adults managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure or prediabetes can especially benefit from resetting their dietary habits before the busy fall season.
Prioritize Hydration. Dehydration often builds up quietly during the summer months, especially for adults
drinking more caffeine or alcohol. Aim for half your body weight in ounces of water daily and carry a refillable bottle throughout the day.
“Hydration impacts everything from focus to weight management to digestion,” says Dr. Bhandarkar. “It’s one of the simplest and most effective wellness tools we often overlook.”
Schedule Daily Movement. When it comes to exercise, consistency beats intensity. Take a 20-minute walk, stretch before bed, or do a quick home workout. Not only does movement improve cardiovascular health, it boosts mood, reduces inflammation, and relieves stress—especially important for adults balancing caregiving roles.
Make Time for Mental Reset. Adults are just as susceptible to burnout as kids. Take a few minutes each day to unplug. Whether it’s journaling, meditation, or simply stepping outside for fresh air, small acts of mindfulness help reduce mental clutter and improve clarity.
End-of-summer burnout affects the whole household. With small, intentional steps focused on rest, nutrition, hydration, and movement, families can transition into the fall season healthier, more focused, and better prepared.
tueSdAy, AuguSt 5
Mommy & Me Crafting group (Community Health). 9–10 a.m. Open to children ages 2-5 with a focus on creative expression and building fine-motor skills. Enjoy simple crafts designed to help parents/ guardians enjoy the simple moments life brings.
WedNeSdAy, AuguSt 6
Social Hour for Seniors (Better Health). Also Aug. 13, 20 & 27. 10–11 a.m. Life-changing conversations, listening, learning, and exploring for this time in our lives. Topics created for you by you. New members are always welcome. Join us on all the dates, two, or even one. It’s your choice.
FridAy, AuguSt 7
game time for Seniors (Better Health). Also Aug. 22. 1-3 p.m. 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 or bring friends with you.
WedNeSdAy, AuguSt 13
reiki refresher (Community Health). 5-8 p.m. Have you been Reiki Certified, and it’s been a while since you’ve practiced? Do you wonder if you still “have it”? Yes, you do! Join us for an evening of rediscovery. Fee: $20
WedNeSdAy, AuguSt 20
For more information about Dr. Bhandarkar or to make an appointment at her Hamilton practice location, please call (609) 245 7430.
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.
emotional intelligence in the Home (Community Health). 6–7:30 p.m. This seminar will help parents & guardians explore techniques to increase their emotional intelligence at home for better understanding, communication, and relationships.
FridAy, AuguSt 22
game time for Seniors (Better Health). 1-3 p.m. Members, 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 or bring friends with you.
MONdAy, AuguSt 25
Heart-Healthy Nutrition (Community Health). 1 -2 p.m. Join us for our bimonthly nutrition education class. Learn about making dietary choices that support cardiovascular health. Discuss the principles of heart-healthy nutrition. Gain tips for meal planning and preparation. Explore heart-healthy recipes.
CLassiFieD
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VACATION RENTAL
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SERVICES
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LEGAL SERVICES Wills, Power of Attorney, Real Estate, Federal and NJ Taxes, Education Law. House calls available. Bruce Cooke, Esq. 609-799-4674, 609-721-4358.
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 .
