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LTPS 8th grader shares NJEA stage with Nobel laureate

A Lawrence Middle School eighth grader shared the stage with one of the world’s most prominent advocates for education and peace at this year’s N.J. Education Association Convention.

On Nov. 6, student Ava DeLeo joined No bel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai as a panelist during the convention’s opening keynote in Atlantic City.

DeLeo was one of just three public school students selected from across the state to take part in the event, which drew thousands of educators.

The conversation, moderated by NJEA President Steve Beatty, focused on education, equity, leadership, and global peace.

During the panel, Yousafzai turned the conversation back to

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

Rooted in joy

Area

farms continue a century of holiday trees

By BILL SANserViNO

For New Jersey’s many tree farms, the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas bring the crowds they work toward all year — people who come not just to buy a tree, but to take part in something that feels like the official start of the season.

What many don’t know is that Mercer County has bragging rights when it comes to this tradition.

local boards, and built the town’s water works. His blend of entrepreneurship and public service helped transform his community, and his unlikely gamble on Christmas trees grew into a nationwide industry.

Though his farm is now the site of Kingston & Kemp Funeral Home, his legacy lives on in the thousands of tree farms across America.

That same spirit of tradition thrives today at Jack’s Nursery & Landscaping in Hopewell Township, where Edward “Jack” Jackowski and his wife, Anita, have spent nearly three decades tending evergreens and greeting generations of returning families.

Jackowski grows Black Hills spruce, Canaan fir, and Norway spruce — species that do well in the clay-rich soil on his Hopewell Township property.

Because you’d go to the ends of the earth for the people you care about. And we do too. how far would you go if they were sick?

DeLeo, asking who her favorite teacher was.

DeLeo replied, “All of them, but if I had to pick one, my social studies teacher Ms. Tarasov, because she always pushed her students to do the right thing and make the right decisions.”

DeLeo was selected for the honor due to her advocacy work

See dELEO, Page 3

The first commercial Christmas tree farm in the United States took root in Hamilton Township, where William V. McGalliard began planting Norway spruces in 1901. Hoping to turn rocky farmland into profit, he instead helped spark a holiday custom that swept the nation.

He planted 25,000 spruce seedlings and 5,000 saplings from Charles Black of Hightstown. When the first trees matured around 1907, McGalliard sold them for $1 each, long before choosing a tree became the family-centered excursion we know today.

Born in 1857, McGalliard spent his life in White Horse, where he farmed, served on

“The Black Hills spruce look like they’d hurt, but they don’t,” he said while feeling the needles on one of the trees. “Regular spruce trees bite. They hurt you. But the Black Hills don’t.”

Jankowski said that while many families choose from Jack’s pre-cut selection, for parents with young children, he often recommends exploring the fields.

“Kids remember running around out here,” he said. “Anybody can go to Home Depot and get a tree. But when kids come

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

CHILDREN & ADULTS

Malala Yousafzai (left)

Ava DeLeo

N.J. Education Association Convention.

RWJUH Hamilton December Healthy Living / Community Education Programs

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday, Dec. 2; 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.

COLON HEALTH LECTURE AND TAKE HOME SCREENING KITS

Wednesday, Dec. 3; 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 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.

ANGELS AMONG US: GETTING CLEAR GUIDANCE

Wednesday, Dec. 3; 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Join us for a discussion about guardian angels and how we can connect with and receive guidance from them. Fee $15

THE POWER OF FOOD: NUTRITION STRATEGIES FOR DIABETES

Monday, Dec. 8; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 23; 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.

TALK SAVES LIVES: AN INTRODUCTION TO SUICIDE PREVENTION

Monday, Dec. 8; 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

This suicide prevention education program will review the latest data on suicide in the U.S., current research on factors that contribute to suicidal thoughts, prevention strategies, and ways to seek or offer support during times of crisis. Participants must be 18 years or older.

WII GAMES

Monday, Dec. 8, 4:00 p.m.- 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 16; 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.

LETTING GO OF CLUTTER

Tuesday, Dec. 9; 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

This support group explores how our emotional ties to our “stuff” can create clutter and affect our mood. A caregiver specialist will conduct these interactive groups on crucial topics and facilitate a supportive group experience.

HOLIDAY CARD MAKING

Wednesday, Dec. 10; 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Enjoy a sense of community as we make festive holiday cards. All materials will be provided

SACRED BREATHWORK

Wednesday, Dec. 10; 6:00 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.

Sacred Breathwork can help release negative patterns and fears that keep us stuck. Join us for this powerful

work. Please bring a yoga mat, low beach chair, blankets or anything else that will make you comfortable. Chairs will also be available. Fee $15

DON’T BET YOUR FUTURE

Thursday, Dec. 11; 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Gambling is a widespread activity with complex societal impacts. While many view it as a harmless pastime, for some, the risks can lead to severe ﬁnancial distress, mental health issues, and damaged relationships. Our presentation will explore the powerful social factors behind gambling, the dangers of addiction, and the importance of responsible play.

GLOBAL GROOVES: BOLLYWOOD BEATS

Saturday, Dec. 13; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Get ready to move and groove with the vibrant energy of Bollywood dance! Feel the beat, unleash your inner star, and experience the joy and energy of India’s most exciting dance style. No experience needed. Bring your enthusiasm and let the music move you!

PREDIABETES CONNECT GROUP

Tuesday, Dec. 16; 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.

DINNER WITH A DOCTOR: THE HIDDEN CONNECTION BETWEEN ORAL HEALTH AND RESTFUL SLEEP

Tuesday, Dec. 16; 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. If you or someone you love snores, wakes up exhausted, or struggles with

daytime sleepiness, you will not want to miss this talk. Join Sean Bradley, DMD, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, and his team as they explain how the airway, jaw, and oral structures play a key role in sleep apnea, and how today’s oral sleep appliances can help you breathe easier, sleep deeper, and feel more energized.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS

Wednesday, Dec. 17; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Learn how to help heal your body and relax your busy mind.

TEEN AND CHILD SERIES: SOCIAL MEDIA SAFETY

Wednesday, Dec. 17; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Technology is a big part of kids’ lives, and this workshop will give them tools to use it wisely. Students will learn how to protect their privacy, recognize unsafe or unkind online behavior, and understand the difference between positive and negative digital choices. The workshop will also encourage them to think before they click and to use social media in healthy, responsible ways.

STROKE SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday, Dec. 23; 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Sarrol,Speech-Language Pathologist, & Allyson Panikowski-Berry, Occupational Therapist. Survivors and care partners at any stage of recovery are encouraged to attend.

HEART-HEALTHY NUTRITION

Monday, Dec. 29; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Join 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.

CREATIVE ARTS: JUNK JOURNALING

Tuesday, Dec. 30; 2:30 p.m. - 4:00pm

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

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.

YOGA CLASSES

Tuesday, Dec. 2 and 16; 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.

MEDITATION CLASSES

Tuesday, Dec. 2 and 16; 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, Dec. 2 and 16; 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, Dec. 3, 10, 17; 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Topics created for you by you. Every week is new and something different. Join us on all the dates, two, or even one. It’s your choice. New members are always welcome.

GENTLE JAZZ CLASS

Wednesday, Dec. 3 &17; 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Join us for a fun gentle jazz class led by one of our Better Health Members, a former Dance Instructor, Norma Barber.

COOKIE DECORATING

Tuesday, Dec. 9; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Join us as a local baker guides us through decorating her already baked from scratch cookies. All supplies included.

A place for survivors and caregivers to build a community. The group will share personal experiences, feelings, recovery strategies, and ﬁrsthand information on managing life after stroke. Join the RWJ Rehab team, Ashley Scan QR code to view, learn more & register on-line for the programs listed above. Or visit rwjbh.org/HamiltonPrograms

TO BECOME A BETTER HEALTH MEMBER FOR FREE SCAN THIS QR CODE

TAI CHI CLASSES

Thursday, Dec. 11; 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.

CREATE YOUR PERSONAL HOLIDAY WREATH

Monday, Dec. 15; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Join us as we spread winter joy through art and innovation. Create a beautiful holiday wreath to take home and enjoy. This fun and hands-on class will help you tap into your inner creativity as you spend time enjoying music, friends, and crafting. All supplies included.

HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

Thursday, Dec. 18; 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Happy holidays! Whether you come alone to meet new people or to catch up with old friends, join our Better Health Program family for an enjoyable holiday party and to reﬂect on a year well spent. There will be delicious food, festive dancing, and a special singer. Looking forward to celebrating the holiday season with you!

WHAT WE KEEP

Friday, Dec. 19; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

What keepsakes have you held onto and why? What do they say about your story? What do they represent in your life? Now is the time to bring these cherished items out of the shadows and into the light. Join us as we guide you in reinventing your treasures, turning them into meaningful symbols of the present. Through reﬂection, storytelling, and creative exercises (art and writing), we’ll help you uncover the deep signiﬁcance of what you’ve kept and show you how to integrate your memento in a way that inspires and transforms. Supplies included.

dELEO continued from Page 1 and her leadership in the World Peace Game, a collaborative diplomacy and strategy simulation that encourages students to solve complex global challenges.

The game has been held in Lawrence Township for three consecutive summers through a grant-supported partnership between the NJEA, the Lawrence Township Education Association, Lawrence Township Public Schools and the World Peace Game Foundation.

“We are incredibly proud of Ava and the thoughtful voice she brought to such an important conversation,” said Superintendent Robyn Klim.

“Her selection and participation reflect the empathy, leadership, and global awareness we strive to foster in all LTPS students,” Klimn said

DeLeo’s presence at the NJEA Convention was a proud moment for the district and a reminder of the power of student voices on the world stage.

Nov. 4 election results

In Lawrence Township, unopposed incumbents Christopher Bobbitt (9,826) and James Kownacki (9,714) won reelection to two Township Council seats. Both are Democrats.

For a two-year unexpired council term, Democrat Amanda Santos (9,294) led Republican Kenneth Kiernan (3,375).

For the Lawrence Township Board of Education, Patricia “Pepper” Evans (9,733), Makenzie Kelly (9,611) and Paul Caparotta (9,366) were running unopposed.

The following are responses to questions posed to the school board candidates regarding issues facing the LTPS. Evans was the only candidate to respond. He answers appear below.

The district is likely facing reduced state/federal aid and other funding uncertainties, which could affect both curriculum and essential student support services. How would you balance protecting these services with budget constraints?

The district is constrained to work within the 2% cap on property tax increases for public schools, yet vendors, such as bus companies and schools for our special education students, which are not subject to the cap. Our BA has been able to work within this framework by applying for additional state aid and grants, negotiating the best rates on SRECs and insurance, consolidating bus routes, and educating more special education students on-site whenever possible.

Like many districts, Lawrence is dealing with shortages in teachers. What strategies would you support or propose to recruit, retain, and support high-quality teachers?

See ELECTION, Page 5

We are a newsroom of your neighbors. The Lawrence Gazette is for local people, by local people. As part of the community, the Gazette does more than just report the news—it connects businesses with their customers, organizations with their members and neighbors with one another. As such, our staﬀ sets out to make our town a closer place by giving readers a reliable source to turn to when they want to know what’s going on in their neighborhood.

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Rich Fisher

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Our director of personnel has led the charge by ensuring strong partnerships with surrounding colleges and universities, which help us get interns and student teachers, whom we often recruit. There is no better way to encourage future teachers than to expose our students to the high-quality, inspiring educators they see in our classrooms every day.

Given stresses from school assignments, pressure on students, potential curriculum changes, and overall post-pandemic effects, what policies would you like to see prioritized to support students’ mental wellness, reduce stress, and promote resilience?

Kids are stressed, no doubt about it. We have instituted a cellphone-free parking lot for instructional times, invested strategically in support systems for at-risk students with trained mental health professionals, and trained all educators in trauma-informed care practices. We recently created the position of director of school counseling and student support to work with our dynamic assistant superintendent for special services. How will you ensure that families are kept informed and consulted about major decisions? What mechanisms should exist for public feedback and accountability?

We have an award-winning operations manager who has overhauled every communications practice, including offering Talking Points — a program that translates both incoming and outgoing communications for families. Families have up-to-date information on the Genesis program, and our website is now more user-friendly. Our superintendent and leadership team are approachable and responsive to all questions and concerns.

How should the board balance curricular integrity, as determined by educators and state standards, with potential parental concerns about content?

The board does not create or influence state standards on curriculum, and neither do families. Our staff teaches with integrity and historical accuracy.

The LTPS has long emphasized music, theater, and visual arts as essential parts of a well-rounded education. How will you support continued investment in arts programs?

I will support our students’ arts education by attending and promoting performances, and by championing our remarkable, awardwinning Arts educators.

Is there anything I haven’t asked about that you would like to address or see addressed in your upcoming term?

I will promote CTE and non-traditional post-high school pathways. It’s unnecessary and unfair to pigeonhole every student into an automatic college education. I believe

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we should focus on what’s right for the individual student and their unique strengths. In Lawrence, every student matters.

Knights of Columbus looks to reunite service members for holidays

Knights of Columbus Council 7000 in Lawrence Township are once again working to help military personnel come home for the holidays through their Send a Hero Home for the Holidays initiative.

The community-based program provides round-trip tickets for enlisted men and women who are stationed at one of five military bases across Mercer, Monmouth, Burlington and Ocean counties and cannot afford the cost of travel.

The project began in 2013 when local Knights of Columbus councils identified enlisted personnel on active duty within the region who had leave time but were unable to pay for transportation home.

That first year, the organization reunited 11 service members with their families for Christmas Day.

Now entering its 14th year, the effort continues to ensure “there’s no place like home for the holidays,” organizers said.

Those wishing to contribute to this year’s campaign can mail donations to Knights of Columbus Council 7000, P.O. Box 6425, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648.

out here, they have a ball picking one. They’ll remember that.”

He stresses the importance of a fresh cut before the tree goes into its stand. “We trim a quarter inch off the bottom,” he said. “If the sap hardens, the water can’t go up.”

Once home, he said customers should get the tree into water immediately. “Warm water and sugar is the old trick, but we sell a product called ProLong. It keeps the sap from sealing over.”

Jack’s also sells a limited number of balland-burlap trees for replanting. Four- to five-foot sizes are the most manageable.

“I tell people to dig the hole before Christmas,” he said. “New Jersey weather is crazy. If the ground freezes, that thing’s not going in.”

Weather has shaped many memorable seasons on the farm. “I’ve sold trees in a T-shirt, and I’ve sold them in 35 degrees and raining,” he said. “We’re out there freezing and people still come.”

One year a sudden freeze encased every tree in ice. “We couldn’t even run ’em through the netting,” he said. “I finally told people, ‘There’s the trees — 20 bucks.’ It was that bad.”

But what keeps him going is the people. “I’ve watched kids grow up out here,” he said. “Some were babies the first time they

came. Now they’re bringing their kids. It’s tradition.”

After decades working the fields, Jackowski has come to understand trees from the grower’s point of view — how they behave, how they surprise people, and how families connect with them.

But across New Jersey, other growers see the holiday tree tradition from a broader vantage point, and few know that

landscape better than Allison Cole.

Allison Cole, who serves as the executive secretary of the New Jersey Christmas Tree Growers’ Association, has seen just about every kind of tree — and every kind of customer — there is.

She said she could usually tell within a few minutes which families wanted a neat, symmetrical fir and which ones would proudly take home something a little

wild-looking.

“You’ve got spruces and firs and pines, and they differ in their needles,” said Cole in a past interview with CommunityNews. org. “There are some exotic, off-the-wall varieties, too.”

Her years in the business have taught her that every tree has its own personality. A white pine, with its soft, graceful needles, has a certain elegance — like a dancer twirling in slow motion. The sturdy Colorado blue spruce, meanwhile, has an icy beauty, its steel-blue hue glowing under white lights. But it’s not one to handle carelessly.

“You have to trim that one wearing gloves,” Cole said. “The needles are so sharp even the deer won’t nibble on it.”

Then there are the firs — Douglas, Concolor, and Fraser. Their full branches can hold heavy ornaments, their scent fills a room instantly, and, as Cole said, “they have good needle retention.”

Cole said she sometimes chose her own tree not for perfection but for personality.

“I’ve brought home the tree that was maybe bit by a tractor,” she said with a grin. “I can always make it beautiful.”

Still, practicality matters. “You’d be surprised how many people forget to measure their ceiling,” she said. “They find the perfect tree, bring it home, and then realize they don’t have room for the star or angel

Fabulous Baked Goods

Soups and Casseroles

Home Treasures

Handcrafted Ornaments, Scarves, Knitwear, and More

Gently Used Christmas Decorations For Your Home

Pictures With Santa Plants and Hostess Gifts

“Secret Santa” - (Just For Children To Shop For Gifts!)

Taste of Norway

Our Famous Quilt Raffle

Lunch at our Creole Christmas Cafe

Surprise Raffle Item

Edward and Anita Jackowski at their tree farm in Hopewell Township.

on top.”

Like any fashion, tree trends come and go. “Twenty-five years ago everyone wanted Scotch pine,” she said. “Now it’s all about the firs.”

Freshness remains central to her advice.

“It’s much better to go to a local tree farm and either cut it yourself or have it cut for you there,” she said. “That way you know it’s fresh.”

Once home, timing and care are crucial. “Get it into water as soon as possible,” she said. If it needs to sit outside before decorating, she said to keep it in a bucket of water in the garage or on the shaded side of the house.

“I usually give mine a gallon of clean water every day or every other day,” she said. “You just have to see what it needs.”

For some families, the love of Christmas trees goes beyond one holiday season. Many farms sell ball-and-burlap trees with roots still attached, ready to be replanted.

“People like to use them in their landscaping and say, ‘Oh, that was our Christmas tree from a few years ago,’” Cole said. She said real trees remain the environmentally friendly choice. “You may have an artificial tree for 20 years, but when you throw it out, it sits in a landfill forever because you can’t recycle it,” she said.

In New Jersey, the business of Christmas trees is less about competition and more about community. “We’re all friends,” Cole said. “We help each other out.”

She said the New Jersey Christmas Tree Growers’ Association meets throughout the year to share advice, compare species performance, and trade stories from the field.

“It’s a group of people who love what they do,” she said. “We’re all in it for the same reason — because we love trees and we love the holidays.”

That sentiment extends to the public. Buying a tree locally supports small, family-owned farms and turns what could be a chore into a memorable outing.

“You’re not just buying a tree,” Cole said. “You’re making a tradition.”

The Association says it is committed to keeping that tradition alive for generations. Its members grow, prune, shape, and care for thousands of trees so that each December, families can walk through the fields in search of “the one.”

“People come back year after year,” Cole said. “We see their kids grow up. It’s like being part of their Christmas story.”

And that, in the end, is what keeps Cole and her fellow growers smiling even after long, cold December days in the fields.

“It’s worth it,” she said. “You’re part of something that brings people joy.”

chocolate and candy canes by the firepit. (609) 208-0784. lazysusantreefarm.com.

Longford Gardens/Makrancy’s, 947 Kuser Rd., Hamilton, has historically sold pre-cut trees and holiday greens at the garden center; current online info is inconsistent. Call ahead to confirm hours and availability. Phone: (609) 981-7667.

McLaughlin Tree Farm, 1312 Old York Rd., Robbinsville, offers a selection of choose-and-cut trees with free baling and loading, saws and wagons, hot chocolate & popcorn, handmade wreaths, garland and baked goods. (609) 259-8122. intrees.net

Stone Manor Farm (formerly Pleasant Valley), 47 Pleasant Valley Rd., Titusville, offers a classic choose-and-cut experience, specializing in large trees as well. (609) 8181241. stonemanorfarmnj.com

Area tree farms

For more information about Jack’s Nursery, go to jacksnurseryandlandscaping. com or call 609-737-0224. For more information, tips, and a list of farms near you, visit njchristmastrees.org.

A & M Farm and Garden Center, 1203 US Highway 130, Robbinsville. Ffeatures fresh-cut Christmas trees, custom wreaths, holiday décor, grave blankets, and seasonal gifts for the home and garden. (609) 448-0663. aandmgardencenter. com/winter.

Barclay’s Tree Farm: 35 Orchardside Dr., Cranbury, offers choose-and-cut and a limited selection of pre-cut trees, plus fresh wreaths, stands and local honey. (609) 799-1855. Website: barclaystreefarm. com.

Carroll’s Christmas Tree Farm, 3980 Princeton Pike, Lawrence Twp., offers Douglas, Fraser and Concolor firs (and more), handmade wreaths, swags and garlands, plus seasonal family activities. Carroll’s Christmas Tree Farm on Facebook. (609) 647-2623.

Colavita Christmas Tree Farm, 1761 Dolington Rd., Yardley, PA, offers chooseand-cut, pre-cut and balled trees plus a Wreath Barn making fresh wreaths daily with custom décor, along with roping and bows for doorways and mantles. (215) 4933563. colavitachristmastreefarm.com.

Countryview Farm Nursery, 601 Buckelew Ave., Monroe Twp., offers fresh-cut and balled firs & spruces, decorated wreaths, grave blankets and seasonal shrubs; they often feature hot cocoa and Santa visits on select days. (732) 4465141. countryviewfarmnursery.com.

Jack’s Nursery & Landscaping, 10/100 Woosamonsa Rd., Hpewell Township, offers fresh-cut trees (plus a limited selection of uncut nursery trees), poinsettias and greens. (609) 737-0224. jacksnurseryandlandscaping.com.

Keris Tree Farm & Christmas Shop,

848 Route 524, AllentownChoose-and-cut firs/spruces and pre-cut Fraser & Balsam; Christmas shop with handmade ornaments, wreaths and gifts. (609) 259-0720. kerischristmastreefarm.com.

Lazy Susan Tree Farm, 184 Sharon Rd., Robbinsville. Family-run with cutyour-own and pre-cut trees, fresh handmade wreaths, and complimentary hot

Simonson Farms (Cranbury/East Windsor) operates several fields, with main locations at 120 Cranbury Neck Rd. and 118/260 Dey Rd. Big species selection, pre-cut at Cranbury Neck Rd., and wagon rides on weekends. (609) 799-0140. simonsonfarms.com

Spruce Goose Christmas Tree Farm, 194 Bordentown-Georgetown Rd., Chesterfield. Family-run for 30+ years with chooseand-cut firs & spruces, fresh wreaths and on-farm tools/services. (609) 298-2498. sprucegoosefarm.wordpress.com

Advent & Christmas @Ewing Covenant

ADVENT FESTIVAL

Saturday, December 13 • 11am – 2 pm

Featuring craft vendors, caroling, a petting zoo, face painters, hot cocoa, and more!

ADVENT CANTATA

Sunday, December 14 • 10 am

CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP December 24 •7 pm

Learn more about this inclusive community of faith at ewingcovenant.org.

Jack’s Nursery and Landscaping offers a variety of tree sizes on their tree farm.

When joint surgery affects more than just you, closer is better. Do it right. Here.

When you need relief from joint pain, you want nothing less than the highest level of orthopedic care. At RWJBarnabas Health, you’ll find board-certified surgeons using the latest treatments and technology, including robot-assisted joint replacement and other minimally invasive procedures, with physical therapy right on site. Visit rwjbh.org/ortho to learn more.

SportS Meth breaks 41-year LHS record at Meet of Champions

By Rich Fisher

It started innocently enough.

Devon Meth would go on runs to train for his upcoming cross country season and his younger sister, Izzy, would accompany him on her bike.

And a passion was born.

“Just seeing how much he liked it, it helped my love for the sport,” Izzy Meth said. “My mom and dad are big runners and Devon did track and he pushed me. I started track in seventh grade and I really liked it from the start.”

Meth had no idea, however, of the challenges she would face.

Since entering Lawrence High in 2023, she has experienced enough ups and downs to start her own elevator business. Injuries have nagged the Cardinals junior but never knocked her out, and she has been on a high in this, her junior season.

It culminated on Nov. 15, when Meth ran a 37th-place time of 19:11 at in the NJSIAA Meet of Champions at Holmdel Park, shattering the Lawrence record that had stood for 41 years at the state’s most challenging course. LHS Hall of Famer Beth Starr had the former mark of 19:27 set in 1984.

“I am very happy with the result,” said Meth, who made it a family affair atop the Lawrence record board as Devon holds the boys record. “I’m very grateful for finishing this season as strong as I did, especially coming back from injury and being behind at the beginning of the season.”

Meth qualified for the MOC on Nov. 8 when she ran a 19:42 at Holmdel to finish ninth in the NJSIAA Group III meet.

“I was really happy with that,” Meth said. “It exceeded my expectations because I never placed in cross country at groups. Freshman year I got 11th and made it as a wild card, but knowing I was guaranteed to have my spot, it was exciting. It was a new thing for me.”

None of it was on her radar in September.

“I kind of went into the season not knowing what to expect,” Meth said. “I just wanted to get my fitness back up and see what I could do and try to get back what I lost over the summer.”

As for reaching the MOC, she said, “At that point I had nothing to lose. You made it to where you want to be and you just run freely for a time and see what you can do with all the effort from the past few months.”

And wow, has there been effort as she has had to battle through one health woe after another.

Meth burst onto the high school scene in a big way as a freshman.

“She had a fantastic cross country season,” coach Tim Collins said. “She nailed all the meets, set all the course records for the school at Cherokee, Thompson Park, and ran fantastic.”

Her first trip to the MOC, however, was a wake-up call as she finished 45h in 19:55.

“It was definitely intimidating,” she recalled with a laugh. “You look up at all these older girls and all their times, you’re like ‘Oh my God, they’re so much faster, they know what they’re doing.’ And you’re just going in blind so it’s a little scary.”

In the winter of that school year Meth opted for swimming over winter track and Collins felt it had an adverse effect on her spring season, which he termed “average.”

“Swimming definitely helped me aerobically to stay fit but not having that mileage and trying to get back to what I was doing during cross country led to some injuries and muscle tightness,” Meth said. “That held me back freshman year (in the spring). Just switching gears over to winter track and using it as a training season really helped me after that.”

But first she had to endure a rough sophomore cross country season due to minor injuries and illness.

“She was doubting herself, just never got in a rhythm last year and cross country was not successful,” Collins said.

“I have a problem with getting in my head a lot and I think that was a factor,” Meth admitted. “Just seeing some other athletes who got better and faster kind of made me feel I wasn’t where I needed to be. I wasn’t really doing enough strength training, that set me back and tendonitis in my knees bothered me.”

She recovered physically and mentally with what Collins called “fantastic winter and spring track seasons.” Meth set school records in the indoor (11:10.33) and outdoor (10:59.32) two mile, went to Meet of Champs indoors and just missed outdoors by one spot.

“Over the winter I focused on clearing my head before races and that helped me with spring,” she said.

Missing the outdoor MOC turned out to be a silver lining, as Meth was suffering from a stress fracture that started acting up late in the season. Running in the big meet would have aggravated it and, as it turns out, that injury began a series of health issues that she battled over the summer.

“She was in a boot for about a month so that’s some time off,” Collins said.

“That impacted her for about five weeks, which impacted her summer training. She was behind everybody coming into the summer.”

Meth was able to go to cross country camp and began training well, but there were some residual issues caused by her stress fracture. Due to time in the boot she lost muscle tone that caused knee issues. Meth did physical therapy to get through that, but had an ankle problem that flared up a bit.

“By then you’re freaking out,” Collins said. “It’s like ‘Did you come back too fast?’ We were really nervous for a couple weeks. And I didn’t know if we’d have to shut her down again. You don’t know if it’s phantom pain, a rebuilt bone or what.”

Her injuries finally regressed and Meth wasted little time rounding into form. Lawrence’s season-opening meet at the NIKE Cherokee Challenge produced a thirdplace run with a PR of 11:58 in the 3200.

Not wishing to push it, Meth did not race again for 21 days and went easy on her workouts. She swam with her Peddie

Aquatics club team to work on aerobics and endurance. Collins felt the break helped.

“We were taking it easy, being super careful, and then she was feeling better and better,” the coach said. “The ankle thing had gone away, she got stronger, PT worked the leg muscles back on her left leg. She started gaining some confidence, and then she started looking good and feeling good.”

It was an impressive comeback. In a sport that is as much mental as physical, it would have been easy for Meth to just bail on cross country and aim for winter track.

But she fought.

“It was pretty hard,” she said. “I had to learn that if I felt something, just shut down and not do anything to make it worse. I knew if I kept trying to run through it, thinking I was fine, it would make it hurt more and I’d be out for longer.

“I just made sure I was doing everything to strengthen and get better. Seeing the better results made me push through a little more, knowing what I was doing

See RUN, Page 10

MERCER COUNTY

OW-INCOME

HOME ENERGY

ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (LIHEAP) 2026 PROGRAM BEGINS October 1, 2025

Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) season began October 1, 2025 and will June 30, 2026. Residents who pay their own heating costs, and meet the following income be eligible to receive financial assistance with their winter heating bill. Residents with conditions may also be eligible to receive cooling assistance: apply?

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) season began October 1, 2025 and will continue until June 30, 2026. Residents who pay their own heating costs, and meet the following income guidelines, may be eligible to receive ﬁnancial assistance with their winter heating bill. Residents with medical conditions may also be eligible to receive cooling assistance:

MONTHLY INCOME GUIDELINES

was helping me and I was going in the right direction. The injuries helped me be smarter with my training and change how I race.”

After skipping the Shore Coaches Invitational, Meth finished fifth at the Thompson Park Class Meet (19:30) and took second at the CVC Valley Division Meet with a school record time of 18:38 at Robbinsville.

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) season began October 1, 2025 and will continue until June 30, 2026. Residents who pay their own heating costs, and meet the following income guidelines, may be eligible to receive financial assistance with their winter heating bill. Residents with medical conditions may also be eligible to receive cooling assistance: How can I apply?

https://dcaid.dca.nj.gov/en-US/

1. Online - https://dcaid.dca.nj.gov/en-US/

640 S. Broad St, Trenton NJ, 08611. Appointments are not required at this time. email at: housing@mercercounty.org appointment with Mercer County LIHEAP by calling the appointment hotline at 609 -337-0933. call 609-989-6858 or email housing@mercercounty.org

2. In person at 640 S. Broad St, Trenton NJ, 08611. Appointments are not required at this time.

3. Contact us via email at: housing@mercercounty.org

She finished fifth in 19:25 at the CVC Meet and nine days later knocked 20 seconds off that time in the Central Jersey Group III meet at Thompson with a sixthplace run of 19:05.

“I was really happy with the CVC race and the divisional race,” Meth said. “That was after I took some time off and I was able to come back a little stronger than I thought I could. The state races, I was happy with them, but there were some things I wished I could tweak or do better.”

One of Meth’s great strengths is having a sense of what to do and when to do it on the course.

“She’s a really good racer and has really good instincts,” Collins said. “She’s got a good sense of a race and what she should be doing. She just makes some good moves. When she’s feeling good she runs very confidently and that started coming back this year.”

Meth knew what to do instinctively as a freshman, but lost that feel last fall.

4. Schedule an appointment with Mercer County LIHEAP by calling the appointment hotline at 609 -337-0933. You may also call 609-989-6858 or email housing@mercercounty.org

*Federal

How can I apply?

Additional information can be obtained by visiting our website: https://www.mercercounty.org/departments/housing-community-development/housing-and-communitydevelopment-programs

County Commissioners

1. Online - https://dcaid.dca.nj.gov/en-US/

Additional information can be obtained by visiting our website: https://www.mercercounty.org/departments/housing-community-development/housing-and-communitydevelopment-programs

Board of County Commissioners

2. In person at 640 S. Broad St, Trenton NJ, 08611. Appointments are not required at this time.

Edward Pattik Housing Director

“I worked on it in winter track, just knowing when to follow somebody or when it’s too slow and I should pick it up,” she said. “It helped me this season so I have a little mix of what I learned and what I feel comfortable doing.”

Edward Pattik Housing Director

Meth is at high a comfort level in the classroom, where she has a 4.34 weighted GPA. Just as she followed Devon into running, she wants to do the same thing professionally and get into the sports medicine

“Over the course of recovering from all these injuries and seeing what was wrong was really interesting to me,” she said. “And then seeing how it could be fixed was even more interesting.”

The fact that she dealt with those injuries and never let them get her down is a key reason for Meth’s resounding bounce-back season.

“She doesn’t show her nerves at all, she’s got a very good poker face,” Collins said. “She’s doesn’t externalize her problems. Thank God it hasn’t gotten her down. She’s got good fortitude and a good family to back her up. It could have been frustrating like ‘Forget about this, this isn’t working.’ But she never got there.

“She never lost faith. Some kids have it, some kids don’t. When she’s on she’s tough.”

3. By email housing@mercercounty.org

Daniel Benson, County Executive

4. Schedule an appointment with Mercer County LIHEAP by calling the appointment hotline at 609-337-0933. You may also call 609-989-6858 or email housing@mercercounty.org.

Additional information can be obtained by visiting our website: https://www.mercercounty.org/departments/housing-communitydevelopment/housing-and-community-development-programs

Izzy Meth runs at the Group III meet at Holmdel Park. (Photo by Connor Donnelly.) field.

LHS Field Hockey Wins

Mercer County Tournament!

LHS Field Hockey Wins

Golden Heart Week at SWS

The Lawrence High School (LHS) Cardinals defeated Princeton Day School (PDS) 5-4 in sudden death overtime to become the 2021 Mercer County Field Hockey Championsthe first county championship for the Cardinals since 1983!

Golden Heart Week at SWS

Slackwood Elementary School (SWS) recently ended their Golden Heart Week. Students gathered in an amazing heartshaped formation to cap off the week of valuable character education.

Three LTPS Teachers Named as 2025 NJ Exemplary Educators

Senior Talia Schenck completed a pass to freshman Caroline Rotteveel, who scored the tie-breaking goal.

Congratulations to the team and coach Megan Errico on this well-earned win!

A Night with the NJ Devils

LTEF Awards $42,418 to Support 23 Innova�ve Programs

A Night with the NJ Devils

Students learn the art of

Slackwood Elementary School (SWS) recently ended their Golden Heart Week. Students gathered in an amazing heartshaped formation to cap off the week of valuable character education.

ree Lawrence Township Public Schools educators have been recognized by the New Jersey Department of Education as 2025 Exemplary Educators—an honor given to only 120 teachers statewide!

From Lawrence Middle School, Ms. Jillian Testa, a seventh grade Math teacher, was awarded at the Halloween House Relay games on October 31. Ms. Testa is well known to students and sta alike as she is actively involved in LMS life on a daily basis. She serves as a girls’ soccer coach and advisor for class activities, including organizing the eighth grade trip, and she has also taught in the Summer Destinations program for several years.

Senior freshman the tie-breaking goal.

Senior Talia Schenck completed a pass to freshman Caroline Rotteveel, who scored the tie-breaking goal.

Congratulations to the team and coach Megan Errico

Congratulations to the team and coach Megan Errico on this well-earned win!

Also this season, Talia Schenck made history by being the first NJ field hockey player to score 100 goals in a single season! She's the third field hockey player in State history to score 200 career goals and is one of only eight players in the country to accomplish that feat!

Joining her from Lawrence High School are History teacher Mr. Mark Rowe, and Health and PE teacher Ms. Dana Verdi Williams. Mr. Rowe has taught in the district for 37 years and his students consistently surpass state and national benchmarks. Beyond his classroom instruction, he is a dedicated mentor within our academic community and fosters a culture of continuous growth and development. In addition to teaching Health and PE, Ms. Williams coaches the girls’ basketball and so ball teams, teaches the Coaching course, and is a supervisor in the Mentors in Motion program. Currently, she is working with her colleagues in guidance and CST on starting the Hope Squad program at the high school. All of these amazing educators are celebrated for their dedication to student growth, commitment to excellence, and positive in uence within the LTPS community. Mr. Rowe and Ms. Williams received their awards at a faculty meeting on November 10.

e NJDOE’s Exemplary Educator Recognition Program honors educators “who are valued by their school and community and have exhibited strong knowledge and skills, an inspiring presence, and a clear vision for quality teaching and learning.” We are so proud to have Ms. Testa, Mr. Rowe, and Ms. Williams represent LTPS and the outstanding educators who make our district shine.

Also this season, Talia Schenck made history by being the first NJ field hockey player to score 100 goals in a single season! She's the third field hockey

e Lawrence Township Education Foundation (LTEF) is pleased to announce it has awarded $42,418 in support of 23 innovative programs throughout the Lawrence Township Public Schools for its Fall 2025 grant cycle.

Join the LMS/LHS PTO for a special night out with the NJ Devils! Come to the Rock on November 9 and watch the Devils take on the Florida Panthers.

From new books to exible seating to technology equipment, the LTEF is committed to supporting excellence in education. On the elementary school level, multiple grants were provided. All four elementary schools will bene t from new decodable books, cardboard safe cutting tools for STEM activities as well as an expansion of the Climate corners with Green thinker signage which will bene t all kindergarten classrooms. Ben Franklin Elementary School will bene t from new bicycles for PE classes, and refresh of equipment for the StreamKeeper program and an expansion of equipment for the outdoor space. Lawrenceville Elementary School will bene t from new sensory support items and Slackwood Elementary will bene t from the funding of a new innovative gardening program called Slackwood SHINES.

Students learn the art of Rangoli

Mrs. Shanbhag, mother of Ben Franklin Elementary School 3rd grader Reema Cyrus, visited Mrs. Leventhal’s and Mrs. Smoots’ class to teach about Diwali and how to create a Rangoli with colored sand.

Also this season, history by being the first NJ field hockey player to score 100 goals in a single season! She's the third field hockey player in State history to score 200 career goals and is one of only eight players in the country to accomplish that feat!

At Lawrence Intermediate School, students will bene t from six di erent grants. ere will be exible seating for ELL students, new sensory items for the sensory lending library, funding for a positivity project for all sixth grade students. ere will be funding for o -campus theater events for musical students and audiobooks and e-books in languages other than English that are hard to nd in print.

Join the LMS/LHS PTO for a special night out with the NJ Devils! Come to the Rock on November 9 and watch the Devils take on the Florida Panthers.

Discounted group tickets are $40 eachthe PTO receives 15% of each ticket sale. We will all be seated together in the same section and they will broadcast our school’s name on the scoreboard. Everyone that attends gets a special gift! Purchase your tickets on the PTO website at lmslhspto.com/fundraisers

Lawrence Middle School students will bene t from funding for a multi purpose heat press to produce spirit items in school and a curated collection of books about disabilities. Lawrence High School students will bene t from a variety of grants this cycle. ere will be additional advancer shelves for the ceramics program, a continuation of a previous grant. ere will be funding for the Lawrencian student newspaper and the Tangents student magazine. Funding will also bring a unique assembly program in honor of the 250th anniversary of America. Lastly, there will be funding to support the newly established Robotics Club, a continuation of a grant submitted by a student.

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“Challenge Day” Returns to LHS

Golden Heart Week at SWS

Aspiring Leaders Program Inspires Future LTPS Leaders

A er more than ve years, Challenge Day returned to Lawrence High School on October 29–30, bringing students and sta together for two powerful days focused on empathy, connection, and belonging.

Challenge Day is a nationally recognized program that helps young people and adults learn to connect through powerful, life-changing experiences. e day-long, interactive event provides participants with tools to tear down walls of separation and inspires them to live, study, and work in an environment of acceptance, love, and respect.

Slackwood Elementary School (SWS) recently ended their Golden Heart Week. Students gathered in an amazing heartshaped formation to cap off the week of valuable character education.

During the program, trained Challenge Day leaders guide students through a series of highly interactive and energetic activities designed to break down social barriers and build authentic connections. e day begins with music, games, and team-building exercises that encourage students to step outside their comfort zones. As trust grows, participants engage in deeper conversations about emotions, stereotypes, and the impact of labels and social oppression. By the end of the day, many take a personal stand against bullying and exclusion, pledging to “be the change” they wish to see in their school and community.

Senior Talia Schenck completed a pass to freshman Caroline Rotteveel, who scored the tie-breaking goal.

e LTPS Aspiring Leaders Program continues to grow as an exciting opportunity for sta across the district to explore and develop their leadership potential. is unique program is open not only to current teachers, but also to teacher assistants and non-teaching support sta , creating a diverse group of participants who bring a wide range of experiences and perspectives to the table.

A recent session, led by our district’s secondary assistant principals, focused on the skills and mindset needed to take on leadership roles in education. rough engaging discussions and activities, participants re ected on their own strengths, shared personal insights, and considered new ways they can make an impact within our schools.

Students learn the art of Rangoli

rough small-group discussions and honest re ection, students and sta at Lawrence High School discovered how much they share in common and how powerful it can be when everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. e event served as a reminder that school is not just about academics—it’s about creating a community built on compassion and connection.

Congratulations to the team and coach Megan Errico on this well-earned win!

Challenge Day aligns closely with LTPS’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity, mattering, and emotional well-being. Given its success, the district hopes to bring the program back every few years so that each new generation of Cardinals can experience its impact.

Welcome to the Neighborhood

At the start of the school year, LTPS proudly hosted our rst annual “Welcome to the Neighborhood” parent workshop, and we were thrilled to welcome more than 150 attendees— most of them families brand new to our district.

Join the LMS/LHS PTO for a special night out with the NJ Devils! Come to the Rock on November 9 and watch the Devils take on the Florida Panthers.

By connecting sta members from di erent roles and backgrounds, the Aspiring Leaders Program fosters collaboration, builds con dence, and helps participants envision themselves as future leaders in LTPS. With more than 30 sta members already involved, this initiative is planting the seeds for the next generation of leaders who will continue to carry forward our district’s vision of excellence.

Discounted group tickets are $40 eachthe PTO receives 15% of each ticket sale. We will all be seated together in the same section and they will broadcast our

Mrs. Shanbhag, mother of Ben Franklin Elementary School 3rd grader visited Mrs. Leventhal’s and class to teach about Diwali and how to create a Rangoli with colored sand.

e workshop gave families an opportunity to learn how LTPS communicates with parents and guardians and to ask questions about the supports available to students. One of the highlights of the evening was the chance to meet our community partners, who lined the hallways to share information and resources. From a er-school programs and youth services to local nonpro ts and family-centered organizations, these partners work side by side with LTPS to ensure our students and families are cared for both in and out of school.

e evening wasn’t just about information—it was about connection. Families le knowing that they are not alone as they begin their journey in Lawrence Township. ey now have a network of support, both within the district and throughout the community, committed to working together in the best interest of children.

We are grateful to everyone who attended, and to our community partners who made the evening so meaningful. Together, we are building the strong, welcoming foundation that de nes #LTPS isIsUs.

Lawrence Middle School Teacher Receives $25,000 Milken Educator Award

Golden Heart Week at SWS

On October 15, Lawrence Middle School’s Jeanette Capritti received the surprise of a lifetime—a $25,000 Milken Educator Award. Surrounded by cheering students, colleagues, and dignitaries, the seventh grade English language arts teacher was honored as New Jersey’s only recipient this year and the rst in Lawrence Township Public Schools history.

A Night with the NJ Devils

e award was presented by Dr. Jane Foley, Senior Vice President of the Milken Educator Awards, and New Jersey Commissioner of Education Kevin Dehmer. O en called the “Oscars of Teaching,” the Milken Award recognizes outstanding educators for their accomplishments and future promise, with no application or nomination process.

From Conversa�on to Construc�on: LTPS PostReferendum Update

On October 15, Lawrence Township Public Schools held its rst Post-Referendum Community Conversation, giving residents a chance to learn more about the district’s upcoming projects following the approved referendum. e event featured information from Superintendent Dr. Robyn Klim, Business Administrator Mr. Eldridge, Lawrence Middle School Principal Dr. Milavsky, and project architect Stephen Schreyer from FVHD Architects-Planners.

Commissioner Dehmer praised Capritti’s “innovative teaching and unwavering commitment to student success,” while Dr. Foley noted her “instructional creativity and inspiring leadership.”

At Lawrence Middle School, Capritti is known for her engaging lessons, such as sci“book tastings,” and for fostering student voice and con dence in writing. Beyond her classroom, she tutors students, teaches in the Summer Destinations Program, mentors future educators, and leads professional development across the district.

Slackwood Elementary School (SWS) recently ended their Golden Heart Week. Students gathered in an amazing heartshaped formation to cap off the week of valuable character education.

Capritti earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from e College of New Jersey. Her achievement marks a proud milestone for Lawrence Township Public Schools.

Community members were able to ask questions, share feedback, and hear rsthand about the multi-year construction plans. e LTPS website has also been updated with a refreshed FAQ section, now including the questions asked during the fall community meeting.

Students learn the art of Rangoli

Construction on Phase 1 of the referendum projects—the new Lawrence Middle School auditorium—is set to begin on December 12. Neighbors and families should expect to see fencing and signage around the construction site a few days prior.

e district will continue to provide updates and opportunities for community input. e next Community Conversation is scheduled for February 18, 2026, at 6:30 PM. Additional information will also be shared at the December 10 Board of Education meeting.

Senior Talia Schenck completed a pass to freshman Caroline Rotteveel, who scored the tie-breaking goal.

Residents are encouraged to mark their calendars and stay engaged as LTPS moves forward on these exciting projects.

Congratulations to the team and coach Megan Errico on this well-earned win!

Lawrence Township Public Schools Responds to Food Insecurity Crisis

When SNAP bene ts were suspended in the beginning of last month, Lawrence Township Public Schools sprang into action to support students and families facing food insecurity. e district quickly convened a meeting with local food banks and community partner organizations to coordinate e orts, share resources, and ensure families in need could receive timely assistance.

, mother of Ben Franklin Elementary School 3rd grader Reema Cyrus, Mrs. Leventhal’s and Mrs. Smoots’ class to teach about Diwali and how to create a Rangoli with colored sand.

District Launches Data Team for Student achievement

e LTPS District Data Team has o cially kicked o its work to strengthen student success and academic achievement across all schools!

As part of Superintendent Dr. Robyn Klim’s goal to “establish a district-wide, datadriven instructional framework that systematically utilizes student achievement data to drive instructional decisions,” the team is focused on turning data into meaningful action and measurable growth.

All of LTPS’s PreK–6 schools maintain food pantries year-round, and these have been especially vital during this time. e district also worked to provide families with information on local food resources and access points. In addition, LTPS students and families joined the e ort by preparing and donating meal kits—o en including recipe cards and ingredients—to help neighbors in need.

Also this season, Talia Schenck history by being the first NJ field hockey player to score 100 goals in a single season! She's the third field hockey player in State history to score 200 career goals and is one of only eight players in the country to accomplish that feat!

Families seeking support or information about food resources can visit ltps.org/guidance and navigate to the Links and Resources section for up-to-date assistance.

Led by Assistant Superintendent Mr. Neel Desai, data consultant (and former interim Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction) Mike Dzwonar, and Director of Student Achievement Jeanne Muzi, the team is made up of principals and building-level data leaders. Each school has a Student Learning and Assessment Coordinator (SLAC) who collaborates with principals and teachers to analyze gradelevel reports and identify instructional strategies that best support students’ needs. By empowering schools to use data intentionally and collaboratively, LTPS continues to ensure that every student receives the support they need to grow and thrive.

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LMS sta are getting excited for the upcoming groundbreaking of the referendum projects

Slackwood

LTPS Welcomes New Board Member

Golden Heart Week at SWS

A er the November 4 election, LTPS is proud to welcome Paul Caparotta to the Lawrence Township Board of Education! Caparotta has long been active in the community, serving as Lawrenceville Elementary School PTO president for two years and coaching with the Lawrence Hamnett Soccer Association. He will take the place of Dr. Michelle King, who is stepping down at the end of her term a er ten years of dedicated service on the Board. We are deeply grateful for her leadership and commitment to our schools.

“I’ve always wanted to be involved with children and education,” he said. “ is feels like a continuation of my volunteer work — a way to give back to the community.”

Elementary School (SWS)

recently ended their Golden Heart Week. Students gathered in an amazing heartshaped formation to cap off the week of

He’s especially excited about the Lawrence Middle School expansion, noting that his daughter will attend the school and he looks forward to seeing the impact of the project on students and families.

e Board also welcomes back Makenzie Kelly, who was appointed in July to ll an unexpired term and has now been elected to a full three-year seat. A former teacher and current NJDOE employee, Kelly said, “I want to feel like I earned the right to represent families, students, and teachers by running for a full term.”

Students learn the art of

Join the LMS/LHS PTO for a special night out with the NJ Devils! Come to the Rock on November 9 and watch the Devils take on the Florida Panthers.

Also returning to the Board is Pepper Evans, who has served since 2013. Evans chairs the Curriculum, Instruction, Assessment, and Professional Development Committee and also serves on the Finance and Negotiations Committees. She said she has never been more excited about the direction of the district as the Lawrence Middle School expansion moves forward.

With the newly elected and returning members in place, the Board is poised to continue its focus on excellence in education, supporting students and families, and guiding LTPS through exciting growth and initiatives in the coming years.

Lawrence Township Students Learn the Power of Their Voice Around Elec�on Day

Around Election Day this November, students across Lawrence Township Public Schools engaged in hands-on lessons about civic responsibility—tailored to their age and abilities. While many may still be too young to cast a real ballot, teachers found creative ways to help children understand the privilege and responsibility of voting.

At the elementary level, students voted on their favorite books, snacks, or classroom activities, turning everyday decisions into lessons about making choices and respecting di ering opinions. Even when choosing between chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin cookies, they practiced the same skills adult voters use: thinking critically, listening to others, and making informed decisions.

Middle and high school students took it a step further, exploring the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizens through mock elections, debates on local issues, and discussions about the impact of civic participation in their communities. ese activities reinforced both the mechanics and the importance of voting in a democratic society.

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From cookies to classroom debates, Lawrence Township students learned that voting is more than just a right; it’s a meaningful way to be heard.

What’S happENING?

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, d ecember 2

TcNJ chamber music: strings, The College of New Jersey. 7:30 p.m. An evening of chamber music and solo performances. Free. tcnj. edu. 2000 Pennington Rd, Trenton.

Wed N esday, d ecember 3

Princeton university concerts presents Peter sellars, director, Alexander Hall. 7:30 p.m. Mourning Through Music. music.princeton.edu. 68 Nassau St, Princeton.

Thursday, d ecember 4

Lhs Winter Instrumental concert, Lawrence High School. 7 p.m. 2525 Princeton Pike, Lawrenceville.

Fr I day, d ecember 5

romeo and Juliet, Rider University Bart Luedeke Center Theater. 7:30 p.m. Shakespeare classic re-set in the future. rider.edu. 2083 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrenceville.

s aT urday, d ecember 6

sourdough bread Workshop, Cherry Grove Farm. 9 a.m. cherrygrovefarm.com. 3200 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrenceville.

s u N day, d ecember 7

Jingle all the Way 3K, Special Olympics NJ Sports Complex. 11:30 a.m. Hundreds of sprinters, joggers and strollers brave the cold in support of thousands of athletes across the state. Participants receive T-shirt and medal. Rain or shine. jatw3k.org. 1 Eunice Kennedy Shriver Way, Lawrence.

Wed N esday, d ecember 10

carols of many Nations, The Seminary Chapel. Shows at 3:30, 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Chapel choir celebrates the Christmas season. Sold out. 64 Mercer St, Princeton.

Thursday, d ecember 11

Lhs Winter choir concert, Lawrence High

School. 7 p.m. Join us! 2525 Princeton Pike, Lawrenceville.

Fr I day, d ecember 12

an evening of readings & carols, Princeton University Chapel. 8 p.m. Holiday concert featuring Westminster Choir College Chapel Choir, Symphonic Choir, Concert Bell Choir, Jubilee Singers and Westminster Choir. rider. edu. Chapel Drive, Princeton University.

s aT urday, d ecember 13

Off The Wall Gallery hours, West Windsor Arts. 2 p.m. Annual event transforms art gallery into an art market. westwindsorarts.org. 952 Alexander Road , Princeton Junction. an evening of readings & carols, Princeton University Chapel. 8 p.m. Holiday concert featuring Westminster Choir College Chapel Choir, Symphonic Choir, Concert Bell Choir, Jubilee Singers and Westminster Choir. rider. edu. Chapel Drive, Princeton University.

s u N day, d ecember 14

First crossing reenactment 2025, Washington Crossing Historic Park. 10 a.m. Watch the reenactment of George Washington’s daring 1776 Christmas night river crossing. During the event, several hundred reenactors in Continental military dress listen to a speech by General Washington and then row across the river in replica Durham boats. A fundraising event. washingtoncrossingpark. org. 1112 River Rd, Washington Crossing.

Fr I day, d ecember 19

The Nutcracker presented by The dance connection, Kelsey Theatre. 10 a.m. Tickets at kelseytheatre.org. 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor.

New Jersey symphony: handel’s messiah, Richardson Auditorium, Alexander Hall. 7:30 p.m. njsymphony.org. 68 Nassau St, Princeton.

s aT urday, d ecember 20

celebrate the holiday season, Terhune Orchards. 10 a.m. terhuneorchards.com. 330 Cold Soil Rd, Princeton.

The Nutcracker presented by The dance connection, Kelsey Theatre. 1 p.m. Tickets at kelseytheatre.org. 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor.

s u N day, d ecember 21

Let’s Just sing! choral reading of handel’s

messiah, Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton. 4 p.m. Singers of all levels welcome to sing with The Princeton Society of Musical Amateurs. 50 Cherry Hill Rd, Princeton.

carver Family christmas Light show. 6 p.m. Celebrate the Christmas season with thousands of lights set to Christmas music. 42 Charlotte Ave, Hamilton.

Tuesday, d ecember 23

a christmas carol, McCarter Theatre Center. Shows at 1 ant 5:30 p.m. mccarter.org. 91 University Place, Princeton.

Thursday, d ecember 25

73rd annual christmas day crossing reenactment, Washington Crossing Historic Park. Noon. Watch the reenactment of George Washington’s daring 1776 Christmas night river crossing. During the event, several hundred reenactors in Continental military dress listen to a speech by General Washington and then row across the river in replica Durham boats. A fundraising event. 1112 River Rd, Washington Crossing.

Fr I day, d ecember 26

Ten crucial days bus Tour, Washington Crossing Historic Park. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Spend a day retracing the Dec. 25 crossing of the Delaware and the Dec. 26, 1776 through Jan. 3, 1777 American and British military engagements at Trenton, Princeton and areas in-between. With historical interpreters Roger Williams and Larry Kidder. Hear how the terrain,

trenton UEZ

FuLL PaGe

Sleep and aging: Why it changes and how to improve it

Ask The Doctor

Older adults notice that their sleep patterns are not what they used to be. Falling asleep earlier, waking up before dawn, or experiencing several awakenings throughout the night are all common changes that occur with aging.

Bianca I. Estropia, DO, Geriatric Medicine, and member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group, RWJUH Hamilton, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, shares practical, recommended steps that are easy to follow and create real improvement for sleep.

1. Maintain a consistent schedule

interfere.

8. Stay active and engage in social activities during the day

Regular movement like walking, chair yoga, Tai Chi, or socializing can help improve sleep quality and reduce restlessness.

See our ads in SIX09 section pgs 5 and 7

“If sleep problems persist or start affecting your daily activities, it’s time to reach out to your doctor,” says Dr. Estropia. “If you are experiencing loud snoring, gasping during sleep, excessive daytime tiredness, or sudden changes in your sleep pattern, this could be a sign of treatable conditions such as sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome.”

Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day helps strengthen the body’s sleep-wake cycle.

2. Get natural daylight

Exposure to sunlight, especially morning light, helps regulate circadian rhythms and promote better nighttime sleep.

3. Create a relaxing bedtime routine

Encourage activities like light stretching, reading, listening to soft music, or taking a warm shower.

4. Limit naps

Naps are fine but keeping them under 30 minutes and avoiding a lateafternoon nap can improve nighttime sleep.

5. Watch food and drink habits

Avoid caffeine late in the day and limit heavy meals close to bedtime. Reduce evening fluid intake to prevent nighttime trips to the restroom.

6. Evaluate your sleep environment

A cool, dark, quiet bedroom can make a major difference. Supportive pillows and a comfortable mattress can help reduce pain-related awakenings.

7. Review your medications with your doctor

Some prescriptions disrupt sleep; others cause drowsiness. A medication check can reveal what may be affecting nighttime rest. Certain medications, especially those for blood pressure, mood disorders, or pain, can also

Medical conditions can also play a role. Arthritis, heart disease, gastroesophageal reflux, to just name a few, may interrupt sleep repeatedly. Frequent urination at night, known as nocturia, becomes more prevalent as well. With the right guidance, older adults can enjoy more peaceful nights and feel more energized during the day.

Dr. Estropia added, “restful sleep is not only possible with age--its essential for maintaining health, independence, and quality of life.” Dr. Estropia is accepting new patients at The James and Sharon Maida Geriatric Institute at RWJBarnabas Health Medical Associates located at 3100 Quakerbridge Rd., Suite 28, Hamilton Township, NJ.

Call 609-245-7430 to schedule an appointment or consultation.

Programs at RWJUH Hamilton this month

All support groups 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 entire 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.

TUESday, dECEmbER 3

Social Hour Especially for Seniors (Better Health Program). Also Dec. 10 & 17. 10–11

a.m. 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. Ev-

ery week is new and something different. Join us on all the dates, two, or even one. It’s your choice. New Better Health Program members are always welcome.

TUESday, dECEmbER 9

ask the dietitian (Community Health). 5-8 p.m. Meet one-on-one with Lori Hager, MS, RD, registered dietitian at RWJUH Hamilton, for a 30-minute appointment to discuss your unique nutritional needs. Prescheduled appointments are required for both dates. CommunityEdHAM@rwjbh.org or call 609-584-5900.

THURSday, dECEmbER 11

Tai Chi Class (Better Health Program). 1-2 p.m. Tai chi is recommended for seniors because it improves balance, strengthens leg muscles, and increases flexibility and ankle stability. It may also help reduce falls and back pain. Beginners and new Better Health Program members are welcome.

mONday, dECEmbER 15

ask the dietitian (Community Health). 1-4 p.m. Meet one-on-one with Lori Hager, MS, RD, registered dietitian at RWJUH Hamilton, for a 30-minute appointment to discuss your unique nutritional needs. Prescheduled appointments are required for both dates. CommunityEdHAM@rwjbh.org or call 609-584-5900.

TUESday, dECEmbER 16

dinner with a doctor: The Hidden Connection between Oral Health and Restful Sleep (Community Health). 5:30-6:30 p.m. Enjoy a healthy dinner and meet Sean Bradley, DMD, oral and maxillofacial surgeon, and members of his team as they explain how the airway, jaw and oral structures play a key role in sleep apnea—and how today’s oral sleep appliances can help you breathe easier, sleep deeper and feel mor

WEdNESday,

dECEmbER 17

monthly Hearing/balance Screenings (Community Health). 9 a.m.-noon. Join us for free screenings on December 17 and the last Wednesday of every month. These 15-minute appointments are designed to help assess your hearing health and balance or fall risk. Appointments are required. Call 609245-7390 to reserve. This program will take place at RWJ Balance & Hearing Center, 2 Hamilton Health Place, Hamilton Township, NJ 08690.

mONday, dECEmbER 29

Heart-Healthy Nutrition (Community Health). 1 to 2 p.m. Join Lori Hager, MS, RD, registered dietitian at RWJUH Hamilton, for our bimonthly nutrition education class. Learn about dietary choices that support cardiovascular health. Discuss heart-healthy principles, gain tips for meal planning, and explore simple, nutritious recipes.

Bianca I. Estropia, DO

Gratitude and groundbreaking

Dr. Klim’s Corner

Robyn

a. Klim, Ed.d., LCSW

As we approach the close of 2025, this season invites us to pause, reflect, and celebrate all that we have accomplished together as a district and as a community.

The holidays always remind us that Lawrence Township Public Schools is more than a collection of buildings; it is our home, and our students, staff, families, and residents make up the extended family that fills it with purpose, and warmth.

This year, that sense of unity and shared purpose is especially meaningful as we prepare to take a major step forward in our referendum work. On December 12, we will officially begin construction on the Lawrence Middle School projects, with the auditorium renovation leading the way.

A few days prior, residents can expect to see fencing and signage around the campus. We are grateful for the community support that made this moment possible, and we are eager to see long-awaited improvements become a reality.

To minimize disruption to teaching and learning, a significant portion of the most invasive early work will take place over winter break—when students and

staff are home enjoying time with loved ones.

By taking advantage of this quiet stretch in the school calendar, we can ensure that the project begins efficiently and safely, setting the stage for a smooth and productive construction timeline.

As we look to the new year, we are excited to continue engaging with our community every step of the way.

We look forward to welcoming the community on February 18 for our second PostReferendum Community Conversation, where we will provide updates, answer questions, and continue the transparent dialogue that has guided this work from the beginning.

As we enter this season of celebration and gratitude, I am proud of the way our district continues to come together— supporting one another, lifting each other up, and working as partners in the future of our schools.

We look forward to closing the chapter on 2025 in a warm, hopeful way, and opening the new year with promise, progress, and the exciting reality of our referendum projects breaking ground.

Thank you for being part of the LTPS family. I wish you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season and a wonderful start to 2026.

dr. Robyn Klim is the Superintendent of the Lawrence Township Public Schools.

CLaSSIFIED

VACATION RENTAL

Fort Myers Beach, Fl. Dates are still available 1 br condo on beach. Call for details @ 609-577-8244.

HELP WANTED

Work From Home Quick Question...If you could earn an extra $5,000+ per month in as little as 60 days, would you want to know how? Listen to a 3-Minute Recorded Message. Call: (518) 841-1126, Then call Elaine at (640) 202-0791 for a Zoom invite. (Serious Inquiries Only!) Code:CP

FOR SALE

Carpentry Tools? Various carpentry tools for sale. Corded saws, sanders, routers, planers, misc hand tools. Lightly used/like new. Contact John Stanley @609-356-3533.

Antiques for Sale Antiques large and small. Jigsaw puzzles 500 pieces & 1000 pieces. Cash - 609-737-7156

SERVICES

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.

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 .

YoUr SErVICE

FREE UPCOMING HEALTH EDUCATION EVENTS

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

Finding Calm in a Chaotic World

Wednesday, December 10, 2025 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting

DR. KRISTINA MCGUIRE, a licensed clinical psychologist from Capital Health Behavioral Health Specialists, will discuss strategies to cope with feelings of anger, grief, fear and helplessness related to the sociopolitical environment. Learn how to manage anxiety, set limits, and improve social connections. This discussion will focus on your mental health and not on specific political issues.

Healthy Eating After the Holidays

Thursday, January 8, 2026 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting

Get back on track after the holidays with DR. KASHIF

ANWAR and registered dietitian EMILY SANTORA from Capital Health Metabolic and Weight Loss Center. They’ll share tips for creating healthy eating habits that last, including mindfulness, exercise, and healthy nutrition.