Proof 2

History takes the center stage for America’s 250th

By Bill sanservino

Before there was a country, there was a road through New Jersey, a river crossing in the dark, a capital city waiting in fear, a battlefield outside Princeton and a network of farms, taverns, churches and meetinghouses where ordinary people were pulled into extraordinary events.

Two hundred and fifty years later, those places are not just names in a history book. They

are parks, libraries, museums, downtown streets, ballfields, old houses and river towns that still shape daily life in central New Jersey.

America’s semiquincentennial — the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence — will be marked nationally on July 4, 2026. But in this region, the anniversary is especially local.

Trenton, Princeton, Washington Crossing, Bordentown, Al-

lentown and surrounding communities were not bystanders to the Revolution. They were part of the ground on which the future of the country was marched over, fought for and, eventually, claimed.

The events listed below run from July 1 through Dec. 31 and range from fireworks, concerts and public readings of the Declaration of Independence to museum exhibitions, walking tours,

See 250TH , Page 7

Pitch Perfect Pond Road students reach final round of STEAM Tank Challenge

By Bill sanservino

Robbinsville senior lexi lopez was one of the colonial Valley conference’s most dominant pitchers in each of the past two seasons, and became just the second Ravens hurler with 400 career strikeouts. (Photo by Julie lawandy.) For more on lopez and the team, see page cktk.

A team of Pond Road Middle School students reached the final round of the New Jersey School Boards Association’s STEAM Tank Challenge, a statewide competition that encouraged students to use science, technology, engineering, arts and math to solve real-world problems.

The Robbinsville team — Vihaan Ganesh, Jackson Koehler, Madison Beaver, Kavya Ahuja and Brandon Preiss — developed Hydro Breeze, a prod-

uct designed to help prevent mold growth in reusable water bottles by drying them more efficiently and using mold-detection indicators.

The students presented their project in May to a panel of judges from the New Jersey School Boards Association as part of the final round of the competition.

The winners of the middle school challenge were Team In Sink from Garfield Middle School, Team Reed Claim from Demarest Middle School and

Hunger Haulers from Green Brook Middle School.

Although the Pond Road team did not finish among the winners, the students were recognized for reaching the final round of the statewide competition. The five students also were honored for their accomplishments at the Robbinsville Board of Education meeting on April 28.

Hydro Breeze was created to address a common problem with reusable water bottles. While the bottles are practical, stylish and

See STEAM TANK , Page 4

RWJUH Hamilton July Healthy Living / Community Education Programs

ASK THE DIETITIAN

Wednesday, Jul. 1; 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Wednesday, Jul. 22; 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Monday, Jul. 27; 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Meet with our Registered Dietitian for a 30 minute appointment to discuss your unique nutritional needs.  Lori Hager, MS,RDN.

ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday, Jul. 7; 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

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

Support and information for family and friends of people with Alzheimer’s disease. A caregiver specialist will conduct these interactive groups on crucial topics and facilitate a supportive group experience.

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday, Jul. 7; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 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 609.584.6680 to confirm attendance.

NUTRITION STRATEGIES FOR DIABETES

Monday, Jul. 13; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Tuesday, Jul. 28; 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.

WII GAMES

Monday, Jul. 13; 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

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

Join members of the RWJ Rehabilitation Hamilton team for this fun hour of Wii games and learn about safe mechanics. Mastering body movement is the key to safe living.

BARIATRIC

WEIGHT LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday, Jul. 14; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

If you are considering surgery, are in the process of preparing or have undergone surgery, you are welcome to attend our group. Family, friends and support persons are also welcome. This is a great opportunity to meet others going through the same weight loss journey. We focus on achieving optimal wellness through weight loss surgery. We will discuss different topics on nutrition, exercise and healthy living behaviors.

YOGA NIDRA

Tuesday, Jul. 14; 6:00 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.

Yoga Nidra, also known as “yogic sleep,” guides you into a state of deep relaxation that hovers between wakefulness and sleep. This practice, rooted in ancient yogic traditions, promotes profound rest and healing and resets your nervous system while lying down without requiring complex poses. Please bring a yoga mat, pillows, blankets or anything else to make yourself comfortable. Fee: $15, must pay online with registration.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS

Wednesday, Jul. 15; 1:00 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Learn how to help heal your body and relax your busy mind.

CREATIVE ARTS: JUNK JOURNALING

Thursday, Jul. 16; 2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

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.

EVERYDAY NUTRITION

Friday Jul. 17, 24, 31, Aug. 7, 21, 28; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Building Healthy Habits is an evidencebased education program for adults seeking a healthy lifestyle. This sixsession workshop is designed to teach about mindful eating, key nutrients, food labels, foods swaps, and more. Participants will be offered food samples, recipes, and take-home materials from a Registered Dietitian. Participants are encouraged to attend all six classes.

FEED YOUR HEART: COOKING FOR HEART HEALTH

Monday, Jul. 20; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Join our bimonthly heart healthy cooking class. Have some fun learning how to cook nutritious and delicious hearthealthy meals. Explore heart-friendly ingredients and cooking techniques.

DINNER WITH A NURSE PRACTIONER: CLEAR YOUR MIND BY MINDING YOUR GUT

Monday, Jul. 20; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Join Ekta Makani, FNP-C, MSN, APN, a member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group at RWJBarnabas Health Medical Associates Robbinsville, for an engaging lecture exploring the powerful connection between gut health and mental health.

Discover how the gut and brain interact, and how everyday lifestyle choices can affect overall wellness.

PREDIABETES CONNECT GROUP

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

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

GYNECOLOGICAL CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday, Jul. 21; 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

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

AM I AT RISK? TYPE 2 DIABETES SCREENING

Tuesday, Jul. 21; 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Nearly 98 million American adults have prediabetes, and almost 90% are unaware of their condition. Understanding your risk is vital. Come in for a Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment. Those who score moderate risk or higher will receive a complimentary A1C screening. Must call or email to schedule an appointment.

WOMEN’S BOOK CLUB: “THEO OF GOLDEN” BY ALLEN LEVI

Wednesday, Jul. 22; 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Please come prepared to discuss the book: “a beautifully crafted novel about the invisible threads of kindness that bind us all.”

WISE

WOMEN DISCUSSION GROUP

Thursday, Jul. 23; 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Join our group of lively woman as we discuss a given subject.  This month’s theme:“Let Freedom Ring; What does freedom look like to you?”

STROKE SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday, Jul. 28; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

This group is a place for survivors and caregivers to build a community. The group will share personal experiences, feelings, recovery strategies, and firsthand information on managing life after stroke. Meetings will be facilitated by two outpatient rehabilitation therapists: Ashley Sarrol SpeechLanguage Pathologist, and Allyson Panikowski-Berry Occupational Therapist. Survivors and care partners at any stage of recovery are encouraged to attend.

SACRED BREATHWORK

Wednesday, Jul. 29; 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, must pay online with registration.

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

A SOCIAL HOUR ESPECIALLY FOR SENIORS

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

Whether we enjoy casual conversation or share deep discussions about current challenges or obstacles, this group is a great place to get to know members and to be part of a weekly program. Join us on all the dates, two, or even one. It’s your choice. New members are always welcome.

TAI CHI CLASSES

Thursday, July 2 & 23; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

AGELESS GRACE: SEATED EXERCISE FOR THE BRAIN & BODY

Monday, July 6 & 20; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Ageless Grace is a practice designed to intentionally nourish the brain-body connection and support overall health and wellbeing. It helps reduce stress, keep the brain agile, and the body responsive. When body, mind, spirit, and emotions are in balance, health and well-being become more attainable.

CHAIR YOGA DANCE

Wednesday, July 8; 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Please join us for Chair Yoga Dance, a low-impact aerobic exercise class for all fitness levels. This class will be led by a Better Health Program member who is a Certified group fitness instructor. Limited availability.

GENEALOGY WORKGROUP

Thursday, July 9; 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Everything is better with friends! Whether you are just beginning to research your family history or are already well on your journey, bring your materials and laptop, and join us. This is a space to share your successes and challenges, or simply work on your project alongside a supportive, friendly community of fellow researchers.

SOCRATES CAFÉ

Friday, July 10; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

This class encourages open discussion and the sharing of thoughts, beliefs, ideas and personal

experiences. An unofficial mantra is that we learn best when we ask questions and explore them together. This is a safe and welcoming space where all viewpoints are respected. Come with an open mind, respect for one another and curiosity about where the conversation may lead. This program will be led by a Better Health Program member.

GAME TIME!

Friday, July 10 and 24; 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. 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.

Tuesday, July 14 and 21; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. OR 2:45 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

MEDITATION CLASSES

Tuesday, July 14 and 21; 11:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. OR 2:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

CHAIR YOGA

Tuesday, July 14 and 21; 12:00 p.m. - 12:45 p.m. OR 1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m.

A BETTER HEALTH PROGRAM: GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE MANDALA WORKSHOP, RWJUH HAMILTON

Wednesday, July 15; 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, July 16; 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Join us for a Mandala Workshop, where art meets meditation! This hands-on session will guide you through the process of creating beautiful, intricate mandalas—a powerful tool for relaxation, selfexpression, and mindfulness.

Scan QR code to view, learn more & register on-line for the programs listed above. Or visit rwjbh.org/HamiltonPrograms Email CommunityEdHam@rwjbh.org or call 609-584-5900 to learn more

YOGA

better for the environment than disposable plastic bottles, they can be difficult to dry completely. That trapped moisture can lead to mold growth and, in some cases, force people to throw away bottles that were meant to be reused.

After considering how often reusable bottles are replaced because of mold or odor, the students set out to design a product that would extend the life of the bottles and make them easier to maintain.

Their solution was Hydro Breeze, a rechargeable, battery-operated fan that helps dry all parts of a water bottle. The concept also included instant moldtest swabs to help users detect whether mold was present. As the team advanced through the competition, the students worked on improving their prototype and explored expanding the product to include both a portable travel version and a larger at-home unit.

Jennifer Closson, a STEM teacher at Pond Road Middle School, served as the team’s adviser and guided the students through the competition.

“The STEAM Tank Challenge gives students a platform to innovate and think like entrepreneurs,” Closson said. “It’s exciting to see them realize their ideas have real value. Opportunities like this show students that their voices and ideas matter

beyond the classroom.

“Experiences like this spark interest in future careers in STEM and beyond,” she added. “These students are already thinking like engineers and problem-solvers.”

Before the final round, Beaver said the team was excited to share its work with the judges.

“We’re so excited to be in the STEAM Tank finals,” she said. “It’s awesome to see our idea come to life, and we can’t wait to share it with everyone.”

The STEAM Tank Challenge is designed to be open-ended, giving students the freedom to approach a problem from different directions and develop their own solutions. Students are asked to consider the impact of environmental and climate change, whether direct or indirect, as part of their work.

Thousands of students and hundreds of school districts have participated in the program by forming school clubs and integrating STEAM Tank topics into classroom lessons and district science curriculum. The challenge aligns with state curriculum standards and is held at the elementary, middle and high school levels, with first-, second- and third-place prizes awarded at each level.

Facilitated by teachers and advisers, the challenge encourages students to work collaboratively to identify and develop

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innovative solutions to issues such as climate change and the environment, societal problems, and challenges facing schools, communities, the state and the world.

“The STEAM Tank Challenge inspires students to become the next generation of entrepreneurs, inventors, scientists, artists and engineers to help make the world a better place,” said Dr. Timothy Purnell, executive director of the New Jersey School Boards Association. “We’ve been overwhelmed by positive comments from students, educators and partners who have participated in past years, and we’re looking forward to welcoming a new class to the STEAM Tank Challenge family.”

The Pond Road students’ appearance in the final round capped a months-long effort to research the problem, design a solution, refine their prototype and present their idea as a product with real-world value.

Arnav Janeesh leads Robbinsville class of 2026

Arnav Janeesh’s interest in quantum physics did not stop at personal curiosity.

The Robbinsville High School senior turned that interest into an eBook series, helped launch a student-led quantum science initiative and developed curriculum ideas aimed at making a complicated field

more accessible to other students.

Now, he is preparing to graduate as valedictorian of Robbinsville High School’s Class of 2026.

Janeesh is scheduled to deliver the valedictory address during the school’s commencement ceremony Wednesday, June 24. He plans to attend the University of Michigan, where he will study engineering physics and computer science, with a focus on quantum science.

“Arnav represents the very best of Robbinsville High School,” Principal Molly Avery said. “He is a hardworking young man whose integrity, character and commitment to excellence have distinguished him throughout his academic career. As the Class of 2026 valedictorian, Arnav has set a remarkable example for his peers through both his achievements and his dedication to doing things the right way. We are incredibly proud of all he has accomplished.”

Janeesh is the author of the Quantum Science eBook Series, which he created to make quantum physics more understandable to high school students. The series includes five installments based on peer-reviewed academic papers and instructional videos created by experts in the field.

His writings have been reviewed and See JANEESH, Page 6

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confirmed by researchers from several universities. The series covers foundational concepts such as wave-particle duality, quantum entanglement and quantum tunneling. Janeesh hopes to expand the project to 20 chapters.

“People are often intimidated by quantum science and computing because it’s seen as complicated or out of reach,” Janeesh said. “My goal is to break down these complex quantum topics so they can be understood by anyone. The eBooks are designed to be accessible whether you’re an A student in Physics II or have never taken a physics class.”

Janeesh also founded the Robbinsville Quantum Initiative, a student-led program launched in collaboration with Mario Szegedy, a professor at Rutgers University. The initiative’s mission is to incorporate quantum studies into the district’s curriculum and give students more direct exposure to the field.

Through the initiative, Janeesh recruited experts from universities across the country to conduct virtual lessons for students. He also presented his findings to school officials as part of a proposal that could shape future science learning in Robbinsville.

Janeesh said he hopes both the eBook series and the Robbinsville Quantum Ini-

arnav Janeesh, Robbinsville High school’s class of 2026 valedictorian, founded the Robbinsville Quantum initiative and created an eBook series designed to make quantum science more accessible to students.

tiative help reduce the stigma that quantum science is too difficult or too far removed from everyday learning.

“None of this would have been possible without my family,” he said. “My mom, Sindu, and my dad, Janeesh, have supported me every step of the way, encourag-

ing every idea, challenge and opportunity I pursued. And my younger brother, Aarin, who is now a sophomore, has been one of my biggest supporters and a constant source of motivation. Their belief in me has meant more than I can put into words.”

In addition to his work in quantum science, Janeesh has been involved in several activities at Robbinsville High School. He is captain of the varsity track team, president of the Quantum Computing Club, a member of the soccer team and vice president of the Science Olympiad, in which he medaled at the state level.

He also has worked as a researcher in quantum machine learning at Rice University.

“Arnav Janeesh is exactly the kind of student who reminds us why we do this work,” Schools Superintendent Patrick Pizzo said. “He didn’t wait for the world to catch up to his curiosity — he built the resources, founded the programs and laid the groundwork so that every Robbinsville student who comes after him will have a clearer path into one of the most important fields of our time.

“Earning the distinction of valedictorian is a remarkable achievement, but what truly sets Arnav apart is his commitment to bringing others along with him,” Pizzo added. “The Quantum Science eBook Series and the Robbinsville Quantum Ini-

tiative are lasting contributions to this district — and to science education well beyond our walls.

“On behalf of the entire Robbinsville School District, we couldn’t be prouder of Arnav and more excited to see the impact he will have at the University of Michigan and beyond.”

For Janeesh, the work he has done at Robbinsville High School was not only about pursuing his own academic interests. It was also about making sure the next student who becomes interested in quantum physics has a clearer path to follow.

Roundabout work resumes at Circle Drive

Construction has resumed on the roundabout at Circle Drive and Robbinsville-Allentown Road after winter weather delayed the project.

The work is expected to take about two months, depending on weather conditions. During construction, drivers should expect periodic lane closures on Robbinsville-Allentown Road and a temporary detour for Circle Drive.

The project is intended to improve traffic flow and safety in the area. Motorists are encouraged to allow extra travel time while work is underway.

library programs, historic-house visits, living history events and family activities.

Some are celebrations. Some are invitations to look more closely at complicated history. Many are both. Together, they offer a chance to revisit the Revolution not as something distant, but as something that happened here.

The following events have been compiled from area municipalities, libraries, museums, historical organizations and regional America 250 programs. They are organized below by region and town, with listings arranged in chronological order within each section.

Robbinsville

America 250th Birthday Celebration, Wednesday, July 1, 11 a.m.: The Vincent J. Calcagno Senior Center, 1117 Route 130, will host an America 250th Birthday Celebration with patriotic music, a slide show, ceremonies and a luncheon.

The program includes patriotic music by Ken Mayberg and Terri Morrow, a patriotic slide show by Dominick Critelli and decorations by Steven Czerwinski. Doors open at 11 a.m., followed by ceremonies from 11:30 a.m. to noon, including the Pledge of Allegiance, national anthem, “God Bless America” and recognition of veterans by Robbinsville Township elected officials and first responders.

Lunch, dessert and closing activities follow at noon. Meals are for senior center members; cold drinks and patriotic cake are for all attendees. For more information, visit robbinsville.net.

Reading of the Declaration of Independence, Saturday, July 4, 9 to 9:30 a.m.: The Rotary Club of Robbinsville Hamilton, in partnership with Robbinsville Township, will host a public reading of the Declaration of Independence at the gazebo at West Town Center Lake on Lake Drive.

Community members, youth groups and local officials will read sections aloud as part of Robbinsville’s America 250 observance. Participants who want a speaking role should arrive by 8:30 a.m.

The event will be held rain or shine, with parking available on local streets. For more information, visit robbinsville.net.

Trenton

Freedoms Reframed, ongoing through Sunday, July 26: The 1719 William Trent House Museum, 15 Market St., is presenting “Freedoms Reframed,” an art and poetry exhibition commemorating 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

A collaboration between the Trent House and Art Against Racism, the exhibition is curated by Judith K. Brodsky and Rhinold L. Ponder and features artists and poets of different racial backgrounds, nationalities,

genders and gender expressions. Their work reflects on the Declaration’s promise of the right to pursue happiness while examining freedom, love, education, safety, economic dignity, health care, self-definition and identity.

Presented at the site of an early 18th-century slaveholding plantation, the exhibition asks visitors to consider how America has expanded, withheld and redefined rights and freedoms over the past 250 years, and to imagine a more equitable future. The exhibition is open during regular museum hours, Wednesday through Sunday from 1 to 4:30 p.m., and by appointment. For more information, visit williamtrenthouse.org.

The Crossing: A Seat at the Table, Thursday, July 2, 7 p.m. (also Friday, July 3, 3 p.m.): A 60-minute concert preview of “The Crossing,” a new American musical inspired by Washington’s crossing of the Delaware and the Ten Crucial Days campaign, will be presented at Mill Hill Playhouse, 205 E. Front St.

The musical reimagines the crossing through the diverse and often overlooked voices of the Continental Army. The show centers in part on Thomas Paine, whose “American Crisis” helped inspire the victories at Trenton and Princeton, and features William “Billy” Lee, George Washington’s valet and constant companion, and Jacob Francis, a New Jersey-born soldier who later served in the Hunterdon County militia.

The preview is part of a summer series leading to the musical’s world premiere at Patriots Theater at the War Memorial on Dec. 26, the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Trenton. Tickets are $35. For more information, visit thecrossingmusical.com.

NJ250: Living Documents, Evolving Rights, Thursday, July 2, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. (also Monday, July 6, through Wednesday, July 8, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.): The New Jersey State Library, 185 W. State St., will offer guided tours of “NJ250: Living Documents, Evolving Rights,” an exhibition presented in partnership with the New Jersey State Archives.

The exhibition examines New Jersey’s constitutional history from 1776 to 2026, focusing on the state’s three constitutions, adopted in 1776, 1844 and 1947. It explores how ideas about freedom, rights, representation, voting and government changed as New Jersey moved through the Revolutionary era, the reform era and the modern era. Through documents, artifacts and interpretive materials, visitors can consider how state constitutions shape citizens’ rights and duties, and how New Jersey’s courts and lawmakers have defined and redefined those rights over time. Visitors should bring state-issued identification to access the library. For more information, visit njstatelib.org.

See 250TH, Page 8

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Trenton Heritage Week, Friday, July 3, through Wednesday, July 8: Trenton’s signature America 250 celebration will highlight both the city’s Revolutionary War legacy and its modern multicultural character.

Sponsored by the City of Trenton and the Trenton Kiwanis Club, Heritage Week includes a Fourth of July parade and festival, historic tours, church programs, Declaration of Independence readings, concerts, museum exhibits and family activities. A visitors center at 1 W. State St., the site of George Washington’s 1789 reception in Trenton, will help direct guests to historic sites and special events throughout the city.

The week is built around Trenton’s central role in the American Revolution, including the Battle of Trenton and the city’s later importance as a place where the Declaration of Independence was publicly proclaimed. The celebration culminates July 8 with the 250th annual proclamation of the Declaration at the same location where it was first publicly read in Trenton in 1776. For more information, visit trentonnj.org.

Old Barracks Grand Reopening Celebration, Saturday, July 4, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.:

The Old Barracks Museum, 101 Barrack St., will celebrate Independence Day and America’s 250th anniversary with a grand reopening following a yearlong restoration project.

The official opening is scheduled for 10 a.m., when local officials will help reopen the gates. Visitors will be invited to preview three new exhibits highlighting the role of the Old Barracks and New Jersey in American history. The museum will also display George Washington’s Inaugural Flower Arch for the first time in decades, along with a recreated arch made of hand-dyed wood flowers representing donors.

Street, turns left onto East State Street, right onto North Broad Street, proceeds to the Battle Monument for a wreath-laying ceremony and brief pause, then continues left onto North Warren Street and left onto East Front Street before ending at Mill Hill Park.

The Democracy Reborn Festival begins at 1:30 p.m. in Mill Hill Park with food, music, an escape room, soccer and hockey clinics, crafters and civic organization displays. The festival is intended to connect Trenton’s Revolutionary history with the many cultures and communities that shape the city today. Free parking will be available in the city’s five municipal parking garages. For more information, visit trentonnj.org. Trenton Thunder Baseball and Fireworks, Saturday, July 4, 6 p.m.: Trenton Heritage Week continues into the evening with baseball and fireworks at Trenton Thunder Ballpark, 1 Thunder Road.

The game offers a family-friendly way to continue the holiday after the downtown parade and Democracy Reborn Festival. The evening gives visitors another Fourth of July option as Trenton marks the nation’s 250th anniversary with events across the city. For more information, visit mlbdraftleague.com/trenton.

The Power to Change: Revolutionary Stories from the New Jersey State Archives, Sunday, July 5, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (also Tuesday, July 7, and Wednesday, July 8, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.): The New Jersey State Museum, 205 W. State St., will present an exhibition developed in partnership with the New Jersey State Archives to mark New Jersey’s role in the American Revolution and the nation’s 250th anniversary.

The vocal duo Liberty Tree, featuring Stacy Roth and Bob Dupre, will perform “Welcome Mighty Chief” at 10:30 a.m.

The day will include living-history demonstrations, community activities and opportunities to explore the restored site as the museum welcomes guests back for the semiquincentennial. For more information, visit barracks.org.

Cultural Heritage Parade and Democracy Reborn Festival, Saturday, July 4, 11:30 a.m.: Trenton’s Fourth of July celebration begins with an 11:30 a.m. kickoff ceremony behind City Hall, followed by the parade at noon.

The parade will include more than 40 marching units, including bands, floats, reenactors, circus performers, antique cars and representatives of cultural and civic organizations. Luddie H. Austin, state commander of the New Jersey Veterans of Foreign Wars, former Trenton police sergeant and decorated New Jersey Army National Guard veteran, will serve as grand marshal.

The parade route begins on Stockton

The exhibition features rarely seen federal and state charters, documents and artifacts connected to the Revolutionary era. It explores how Revolutionary ideals shaped government and how those ideas have continued to be interpreted, challenged and reimagined across generations.

The program gives visitors a chance to see historical materials connected to New Jersey’s founding-era story and to consider the continuing impact of Revolutionary ideals on the state’s civic life. For more information, visit state.nj.us/state/museum.

United in Prayer Ecumenical Service, Sunday, July 5, 2 p.m.: Trenton Heritage Week continues with an ecumenical service at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 140 N. Warren St.

The church has deep ties to the city’s Revolutionary War history. Wounded Hessian soldiers were brought there after the Battle of Trenton in 1776. The service is part of the city’s broader effort to connect the anniversary with reflection, history, remembrance and community.

The program also places Heritage Week in the context of Trenton’s religious and civic institutions, many of which have been

Old Barracks museum in trenton will hold its official Grand Reopening celebration on saturday, July 4.

part of the city’s story for generations. For more information, visit trentonnj.org.

Heritage Churches of Trenton Walking Tour, Sunday, July 5, 3 p.m.: A Heritage Week walking tour beginning at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 140 N. Warren St., will explore historic churches and religious sites in downtown Trenton.

The tour follows the ecumenical service and gives visitors a closer look at the city’s religious and architectural history, including sites connected to Trenton’s colonial, Revolutionary and early American past.

The program is part of the city’s effort to encourage visitors to experience Trenton as a connected historic landscape rather than a single battlefield or monument. For more information, visit trentonnj.org.

America’s Potluck, Sunday, July 5, 3 p.m.: The Old Barracks Museum, 101 Barrack St., will host America’s Potluck as part of Trenton Heritage Week.

The program invites visitors to experience Trenton’s colonial history while taking part in a community-focused gathering at one of the city’s most important Revolutionary War landmarks. The event reflects the broader Heritage Week theme of bringing people together through history, food and shared civic life.

The Old Barracks, originally built during the French and Indian War and later tied to the Battle of Trenton, provides one of the region’s most direct links to the Revolutionary era. For more information, visit barracks.org.

“What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?”, Sunday, July 5, 4 p.m.: The William Trent House Museum, 15 Market St., will present a reading of Frederick Douglass’ 1852 speech “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?” with songs of the era.

The program connects the nation’s 250th anniversary with a broader reflection on freedom, citizenship and the contradictions

of American history. The Trent House, once the center of an early 18th-century plantation, provides a significant setting for a program that asks audiences to think critically about the meaning of independence.

The reading also complements the museum’s “Freedoms Reframed” exhibition, which examines how the promise of liberty has been contested and expanded over time. Free tickets are available through the museum. For more information, visit williamtrenthouse.org.

Friends Meeting House Open House and Programs, Monday, July 6, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (also Tuesday, July 7, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.): The Friends Meeting House, 142 E. Hanover St., will be open during Trenton Heritage Week.

The historic house of worship was built in 1739 and used as British dragoons headquarters in December 1776. Programs include a walking tour of the surrounding historic neighborhood led by Marc McKithen from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and a presentation by Fred Millner on the role of Quakers in New Jersey history and during the Revolution, with a focus on Trenton.

The open house offers a chance to explore one of the city’s oldest religious sites and learn how Quaker history intersects with the Revolutionary period, civic life and Trenton’s development. For more information, visit trentonnj.org.

Official Reading of the Declaration of Independence, Wednesday, July 8, noon: Trenton will reenact the proclamation of the Declaration of Independence at 23 S. Warren St., the same place and time as the city’s first public reading of the Declaration in 1776.

The ceremony is one of the signature events of Heritage Week and connects modern Trenton directly to one of its earliest public commemorations of American in-

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the

dependence. Participants will gather at the historic site where residents first heard the Declaration proclaimed 250 years ago.

The noon reading anchors a full day of July 8 programming tied to the Declaration, local history and the city’s role in the Revolutionary era. For more information, visit trentonnj.org.

History Fest250, Wednesday, July 8, 1 p.m.: Following the noon Declaration reading, History Fest250 will bring exhibits, demonstrations and family-friendly activities to downtown Trenton.

Participating organizations include the William Trent House Museum, Morven Museum & Garden, New Jersey State Archives, New Jersey State Library, St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Washington Crossing Park Association, Trenton Free Public Library, Pennsbury Manor, Kiwanis Club of Trenton, Trenton Zonta Club and other historical and civic groups.

Visitors can meet historians, explore exhibits and learn about the region’s Revolutionary War history and broader American story. The program is designed as a public history gathering, giving families and visitors a chance to encounter multiple organizations in one downtown setting. For more information, visit trentonnj.org.

Historic Downtown Trenton Walking Tour, Wednesday, July 8, 3 p.m.: Explore Trenton’s Revolutionary-era landmarks, historic streets and civic buildings during a guided walking tour of downtown.

the city’s Revolutionary history with a national commemoration taking place across the states and U.S. territories. For more information, visit trentonnj.org.

Summer Saturdays 2026: Free Family Workshops Celebrate America 250, Saturday, July 11, 10 a.m. to noon (also July 18, July 25 and Aug. 1, 10 a.m. to noon): Trenton City Museum at Ellarslie Mansion, 299 Parkside Ave., will host a series of free hands-on workshops inspired by America’s 250th anniversary.

Designed primarily for children ages 5 to 12, the workshops will explore art, history and the nation’s founding through interactive activities and creative projects. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

The series gives families a way to continue the semiquincentennial celebration beyond the July 4 holiday and Heritage Week, using art and museum programming to introduce younger visitors to history. Advance registration is requested. For more information, visit ellarslie.org.

The tour will highlight locations connected to the American Revolution, early state government and Trenton’s development as New Jersey’s capital city. It provides an opportunity to experience many of the sites that played a role in the nation’s founding and growth.

Offered between the afternoon History Fest250 activities and the evening proclamation program, the tour gives visitors a way to connect the city’s surviving historic landscape with the events being commemorated during Heritage Week. For more information, visit trentonnj.org.

International Proclamation of the Declaration of Independence and Blawenburg Band Concert, Wednesday, July 8, 6 p.m.: Trenton will join communities across the nation in an International Proclamation of the Declaration of Independence, with a second public reading scheduled for 6 p.m.

The reading will be followed by a free concert by the 55-member Blawenburg Band. The program will include “The Battle of Trenton,” composed in 1792 by James Hewitt and dedicated to George Washington, along with other patriotic selections.

The performance serves as the musical finale to Heritage Week and Trenton’s July 8 semiquincentennial observances, linking

Old Barracks Museum Colonial Summer Day Camp, Monday, July 13, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. (also July 14-17, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.): Children ages 9 to 12 can experience life in Revolutionary America during a weeklong summer camp at the Old Barracks Museum, 101 Barrack St. Campers will learn about colonial history through hands-on activities, including cooking in the camp kitchen, playing 18th-century games, marching to local historic sites and exploring daily life in Revolutionary-era New Jersey. The program uses the Old Barracks and nearby historic sites as a classroom for learning about the 18th century. The week concludes with a special closing ceremony. Lunch is included. The cost is $275 for qualifying Old Barracks Association members and $300 for nonmembers. For more information, visit barracks.org.

The Crossing: A Revolutionary New Musical, Saturday, Aug. 29, 2 p.m.: The William Trent House Museum, 15 Market St., will host a free tavern-style preview of “The Crossing,” a new American musical inspired by Washington’s crossing of the Delaware and the Ten Crucial Days campaign.

Presented in the historic setting of the Trent House, the preview offers audiences an opportunity to experience selections from the musical before its world premiere later in the year. The production tells the story of the Revolution through the voices of soldiers, civilians and others whose experiences are often overlooked in traditional accounts.

The preview also connects the musical’s story of the Ten Crucial Days to one of Trenton’s major historic sites, reinforcing the city’s role as a central stage for the semiquincentennial. For more information, visit thecrossingmusical.com.

The Crossing, Saturday, Dec. 26: The world premiere of “The Crossing” will take

the trent House museum, built in 1719 for William trent, is the oldest building in trenton and is among the local historic sites hosting events tied to america’s 250th anniversary.

place at Patriots Theater at the War Memorial on the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Trenton.

The new musical explores Washington’s crossing of the Delaware, the Battles of Trenton and Princeton, and the Ten Crucial Days campaign through a diverse cast of historical figures, including Thomas Paine, William “Billy” Lee and Jacob Francis. The production seeks to present a broader view of the Revolution by highlighting the experiences of people whose stories are often absent from traditional retellings.

The premiere is one of the signature cultural events planned for the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Trenton and the nation’s semiquincentennial celebration. For more information, visit thecrossingmusical. com.

Princeton

“Nursery of Rebellion”: Princeton and the American Revolution, ongoing through Monday, July 13: Princeton University Library’s exhibition “Nursery of Rebellion” examines Princeton’s role in the American Revolution through rare books, manuscripts, prints and other historical materials.

The exhibition explores the community’s place in the founding era, including the people, ideas and conflicts that shaped Princeton before, during and after the Revolution. Presented in connection with Princeton University’s semiquincentennial programming, it gives visitors a scholarly look at the town’s Revolutionary history and the broader world of 1776. For more information, visit library.princeton.edu.

Princeton’s Taverns: On the Road to Revolution, ongoing: The Historical Society of Princeton’s free outdoor exhibition in Dohm Alley, off Nassau Street, explores the role taverns played in 18th-century Prince-

ton and the ways they shaped everyday life in the community.

Installed steps from where several historic taverns once stood, the exhibition uses maps, newspapers, tavern licenses, personal accounts and other historical sources to show how taverns served as centers of commerce, communication, politics and community life. The project invites visitors to consider how ordinary public spaces helped shape Revolutionary-era Princeton. For more information, visit princetonhistory.org.

Real and Remembered: Princetonians Caught Between Study and Revolution, ongoing through Friday, April 30, 2027: The Seeley G. Mudd Manuscript Library at Princeton University is presenting an exhibition on Princeton students and the Revolutionary era.

The exhibition examines how young scholars were caught between education, politics and war during the nation’s founding. Through archival materials, visitors can explore the ways Princeton students experienced and remembered the Revolution, and how the university community was shaped by the conflict. For more information, visit library.princeton.edu.

Five Independent Souls: The Signers from New Jersey, ongoing through Sunday, Jan. 17, 2027: Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton St., is presenting an exhibition on New Jersey’s five signers of the Declaration of Independence: Abraham Clark, John Hart, Francis Hopkinson, Richard Stockton and John Witherspoon.

The exhibition examines the lives, ideals and contradictions of the men who represented New Jersey in the struggle for independence. More than 100 historic objects and Revolutionary-era works are on view, offering visitors a deeper look at the people

See 250TH, Page 12

behind the signatures and the world they inhabited. For more information, visit morven.org.

Community on Tap, Friday, July 3, noon (also 1 p.m.): The Historical Society of Princeton will offer informal guided tours of “Princeton’s Taverns: On the Road to Revolution” in Dohm Alley, off Nassau Street.

The tours invite visitors to explore the exhibition in greater depth and learn more about the stories, sources and research behind the project. The program focuses on the taverns where Patriots and Loyalists gathered, debated, exchanged news and conducted business in Revolutionary-era Princeton. For more information, visit princetonhistory.org.

Fourth of July Festival, Saturday, July 4, noon to 3 p.m.: Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton St., will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with its annual free Fourth of July Festival.

The festival takes place at the former home of Richard Stockton, one of New Jersey’s signers of the Declaration. Highlights include live music from The Vintage Vibe Tribe and John Burkhalter of the Practitioners of Musick, lawn games, face painting, food trucks, arts and crafts, community partners and open archives with the Histor-

morven museum & Garden in Princeton is hosting several events tied to america’s 250th anniversary.

ical Society of Princeton.

Award-winning poet David Mills will read Frederick Douglass’ 1852 speech “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?” The museum will be open free of charge during the festival, including access to special exhibitions connected to the nation’s 250th anniversary. Pre-registration is requested. For more information, visit morven.org.

250th Anniversary Independence Day Celebration at Princeton Battlefield, Saturday, July 4, noon to 3 p.m.:

Princeton Battlefield State Park, 500 Mercer Road, will host a companion celebration tied to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Activities include readings of the Declaration of Independence at 1 and 3:30 p.m., opportunities to learn Continental Army drill, musket-firing demonstrations, 18thcentury crafts, cooking demonstrations and tours of the Clarke House.

The program connects Independence Day with the site of the Battle of Princeton, one of the pivotal engagements of the Ten Crucial Days campaign. Activities are free and open to the public. For more information, visit pbs1777.org.

visit morven.org.

Revolution Sundays: The Battle of Princeton, Sunday, July 12, 1 p.m. (also July 26, Aug. 2, Aug. 16, Sept. 6, Sept. 13, Sept. 27, Oct. 11 and Oct. 18, 1 p.m.): Princeton Battlefield Society will present its Revolution Sundays series at Princeton Battlefield State Park, 500 Mercer Road.

The programs explore the Battle of Princeton and the Ten Crucial Days campaign, beginning with Washington’s crossing of the Delaware on Dec. 25, 1776, and continuing through the battles of Trenton and Princeton. The Battle of Princeton on Jan. 3, 1777, helped transform American morale and the military course of the Revolution.

The recurring programs give visitors multiple opportunities through the summer and fall to experience the battlefield, learn about troop movements and understand why Princeton became a turning point in the Revolutionary War. For more information, visit pbs1777.org.

When the Declaration of Independence Was News, Sunday, July 19, 2 p.m.: Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton St., will host historian Emily Sneff for a Generation Declaration program focused on the Declaration of Independence at the moment of its creation.

Sneff, a leading expert on the Declaration, will discuss how the document was communicated to people in the new nation and around the Atlantic world before anyone knew what its legacy would be or whether the United States would win the war. The program explores the roles of printers, soldiers, diplomats, translators and others involved in declaring independence.

America250 Walking Tour, Sunday, July 5, 2 p.m.: The Historical Society of Princeton will lead a walking tour exploring what happened in Princeton during the American Revolution.

Experience matters.

Copies of Sneff’s book “When the Declaration of Independence Was News” will be available for purchase and signing. Registration includes museum admission on July 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, visit morven.org.

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The tour visits locations occupied or ransacked by the British in 1776, homes of signers of the Declaration of Independence and members of the Continental Congress, taverns where Patriots and Loyalists gathered and debated, and a site connected to the Battle of Princeton. Tickets are required. For more information, visit princetonhistory.org.

Summer Reading Soirée: A Founding Mother, Wednesday, July 8, 6:30 p.m.: Princeton Public Library, Morven Museum & Garden and Labyrinth Books will present the annual Summer Reading Soirée at Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton St.

This year’s program features bestselling authors Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie discussing and signing copies of “A Founding Mother: A Novel of Abigail Adams.” The novel offers an intimate portrait of Abigail Adams and her role in the early republic.

The evening includes sparkling beverages, sorbet, sweet treats, door prizes, giveaways and access to Morven’s grounds. Tickets include a copy of the book, and seating is limited. For more information,

Stories in the Garden: “Try It” with People & Stories/Gente y Cuentos, Thursday, July 23, 6:30 p.m.: Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton St., will host an evening literature program in the gardens with People & Stories/Gente y Cuentos.

Participants will hear a contemporary short story read aloud by an experienced coordinator, followed by a guided conversation designed to bring people together through shared reading and discussion. The program is free, but capacity is limited and pre-registration is required.

While not a traditional Revolutionary War program, the event is part of Morven’s broader July slate of community programs during the semiquincentennial year, connecting literature, conversation and civic life at the former home of Declaration signer Richard Stockton. For more information, visit morven.org.

Listening to the Revolution: 250

Years of American Music, Thursday, July 30, 6 p.m.: Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton St., will host a free community concert by the Blawenburg Band on Morven’s historic front lawn.

The program, “Listening to the Revolution: 250 Years of American Music,” invites visitors to bring blankets, lawn chairs, family and friends to the former home of a signer of the Declaration of Independence and New Jersey’s first governor’s mansion. The Blawenburg Band, established in 1890, is one of the oldest community bands in New Jersey and is conducted by Dr. Jerry E. Rife.

Pre-registration is requested. In the event of inclement weather, the concert will be held Friday, July 31. For more information, visit morven.org.

Book Talk with Brooke Barbier: A Revolutionary Take on Cocktails & History, Friday, July 31, 5 p.m.: Public historian Brooke Barbier will discuss “Cocked and Boozy: An Intoxicated History of the American Revolution” at Nassau Inn in Princeton.

The book explores the role alcohol played in colonial politics, relationships and the economy before and during the Revolution. The program offers a lighter but historically grounded look at the founding era, connecting taverns, drinking culture and political life in Revolutionary America. For more information, visit princetonhistory. org.

Princeton and the American Revolution: A Four-Part Series, Thursday, Sept. 10, 6:30 p.m. (also Sept. 17, Sept. 24 and Oct. 1, 6:30 p.m.): The Historical Society of Princeton will mark the 250th anniversary with a four-part program at Updike Farmstead, 354 Quaker Road.

The series examines Revolutionary War events connected to Princeton and the surrounding region, including the Battle of Brooklyn, the Ten Crucial Days and Princeton’s role as the nation’s capital in 1783. The program gives participants a more sustained look at the local, regional and national events that shaped Princeton’s Revolutionary-era history. For more information, visit princetonhistory.org.

Experience the Battle of Princeton, Sunday, Dec. 27, noon to 2 p.m.: Princeton Battlefield Society will mark the 250th anniversary of the Ten Crucial Days campaign with a Battle of Princeton program at Princeton Battlefield State Park, Mercer Road.

The program will be coordinated with Washington Crossing Historic Park in New Jersey and Pennsylvania and the Old Barracks Museum in Trenton. It will commemorate the campaign that began with Washington’s crossing of the Delaware and continued through the battles of Trenton and Princeton. Registration is required. For more information, visit pbs1777.org.

Hamilton

Founding Flavors of Hamilton, Wednesday, July 1, through Friday, July 31: Hamilton Township’s monthlong culinary celebration for America’s 250th anniversary invites local restaurants and food establishments to bring American history into the dining scene.

Participating businesses may offer historically themed menus, trivia nights, interactive experiences, special events and family or children’s specials. The townshipsupported initiative is designed to encourage residents to explore Hamilton restaurants, sweet shops and neighborhood food businesses throughout July while marking the nation’s semiquincentennial.

The program also gives local businesses a way to participate in Hamilton’s broader 250th anniversary celebration. For more information, visit hamiltonnj.com.

Hamilton Independence Day Fireworks and Concert, Wednesday, July 1, 5:30 to 10:30 p.m.: Hamilton Township will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with an evening of music, food vendors and fireworks at Veterans Park South Entrance, 2206 Kuser Road.

The event features NJ Fife and Drum at 6 p.m. and The Best of the Eagles at 7:15 p.m. Fireworks are scheduled to begin at approximately 9:30 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Accessible parking will be available near the South Entrance Tennis/Pickleball Complex and Dog Park, though space is limited. General parking will be available at the north, east and west entrances of Veterans Park and at Steinert High School. Rain date is Thursday, July 2. For more information, visit hamiltonnj.com.

250th Birthday Bash with Stage a Story, Thursday, July 2, 10:30 to 11:15 a.m.: Hamilton Township Public Library, 1 Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. Way, will host a children’s America 250 program with Stage a Story.

Children will hear “Ten Rules of the Birthday Wish,” act out what it might be like to be 250 years old, dance to music that is 250 years old and make birthday crowns. The program is recommended for ages 3 to 8.

Space is limited, and registration is requested. For more information, visit hamiltonnjpl.org.

Red, White and Blue Run, Saturday, July 4, 9 a.m.: Parkrun will host a red, white and blue run at Veterans Park as part of Hamilton’s America 250 celebration.

Participants are encouraged to wear red, white and blue for the community run or walk. The event offers residents a morning opportunity to mark the anniversary outdoors before other Independence Day events begin elsewhere in the region. For

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more information, visit hamiltonnj.com.

Kuser Mansion Tours, Saturday, July 4, noon to 4 p.m. (also Saturdays and Sundays in July): Kuser Farm Mansion, 390 Newkirk Ave., offers guided tours of the Queen Anne-style country home built in 1892 as part of the Kuser family estate.

Hamilton Township purchased the home and surrounding farm in 1976 with assistance from New Jersey’s Green Acres preservation program, and the mansion has served as a house museum since 1979. The tours give visitors a look at one of Hamilton’s preserved historic properties during the same month the township is marking America’s 250th anniversary.

The last walk-through tour begins at 2:15 p.m. For more information, visit hamiltonnj. com.

John Abbott House Tours, Saturday, July 4, 1 to 4:30 p.m. (also Saturdays and Sundays in July): The Historical Society of Hamilton Township offers free tours of the John Abbott II House, 2200 Kuser Road.

The circa-1730 house was home to John Abbott, a patriot associated with efforts to hide the New Jersey treasury from British troops advancing on Trenton in 1776. The house, located near Veterans Park, is listed on the New Jersey and National registers of historic places.

The last tour begins at 4 p.m. For more

rytelling tents and youth activities centered on Washington’s crossing of the Delaware and its importance to Ewing’s Revolutionary-era geography.

The program ties Ewing’s annual Independence Day celebration to the township’s location along the route of Washington’s campaign toward Trenton. For more information, visit ewingnj.org.

Remember George Washington’s March to Trenton, Friday, July 3, noon to 3 p.m.: The West Trenton Garden Club will host a 250th anniversary celebration at Birmingham Park, at the corner of Bear Tavern Road and West Upper Ferry Road.

The park marks a key location where Washington’s troops divided on their march toward Trenton in December 1776. Roger S. Williams, state historian for the New Jersey Society, Sons of the American Revolution, and co-founder of TenCrucialDays. org, will appear in uniform with a musket and provide historical context.

information, visit hamiltonnj.com.

“Hamilton” Screening, Wednesday, July 8, 6 p.m.: Hamilton Township Public Library, 1 Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. Way, will screen the Broadway production of “Hamilton” as part of the township’s America 250 celebration.

The musical tells the story of Alexander Hamilton and the founding era through a contemporary blend of music and theater.

Bathroom Remodeling

Attendees are encouraged to dress in colonial attire, “Hamilton” merchandise or Schuyler Sister-inspired costumes.

The screening is part of Hamilton’s July programming marking the nation’s 250th anniversary. For more information, visit hamiltonnj.com.

“Hamilton” Sing-Along Screening, Saturday, July 11, 1 p.m.: Hamilton Township Public Library, 1 Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. Way, will host a sing-along screening of “Hamilton” as part of the township’s 250th anniversary programming.

The event invites fans of the musical to join in with the songs while celebrating the founding era through one of Broadway’s most popular modern portrayals of American history. Costumes are encouraged. For more information, visit hamiltonnj.com.

Ewing

Special Screening: “Hamilton,” Thursday, July 2, 2 p.m.: Mercer County Library’s Ewing Branch, 61 Scotch Road, will screen “Hamilton,” the Broadway musical filmed live on stage.

The screening follows the branch’s America250 Family Recipe Swap & Tasting and gives attendees a chance to continue the day’s semiquincentennial programming through one of the best-known modern portrayals of the founding era. The film is rated PG-13 and has a runtime of 180 minutes. For more information, visit mcl.org.

Ewing 250 Independence Day Fireworks and Concert, Thursday, July 2, 6:30 p.m.: Ewing Township will mark America’s 250th anniversary with its Independence Day Fireworks Extravaganza at The College of New Jersey Soccer Field, Green Lane.

Gates open at 6:30 p.m., with fireworks scheduled after 9 p.m. The event will include a Heritage Showcase before the fireworks, featuring live music, reenactors, sto-

The program will include children’s activities, colonial-period crafts, a scavenger hunt, book reading, patriotic decorations, American flags for children, light refreshments and essay contest awards for Lore Elementary School fifth-graders. Parking will be available at the West Trenton Fire Company, 40 W. Upper Ferry Road, with accessible parking adjacent to the park. For more information, visit wtgc.org.

“Alive in Ewing — Revolution-Era Soldiers and Citizens!” Cemetery Tours, Sunday, July 12, 2 to 5 p.m.: The Ewing Township Historic Preservation Society will present guided cemetery tours at the 1867 Sanctuary, 101 Scotch Road, focusing on Revolutionary-era soldiers and citizens.

Guides Larry Kidder and Helen Kull will lead visitors through Ewing Church Cemetery and share stories of people connected to the Revolutionary period. Parking will be available across the street from the cemetery around the church-owned buildings, with Ewing police assisting pedestrians crossing Scotch Road.

Accessible parking and drop-off areas will be available in front of the 1867 Sanctuary and education building for vehicles with disability placards or plates. For more information, visit ewinghistory.org.

Hopewell Valley

Titusville Fourth of July Parade, Saturday, July 4, 11 a.m.: Titusville’s Fourth of July tradition continues as part of Hopewell Township’s 250th anniversary programming.For more information, visit hopewelltwp.org.

Unearthing History, One Page at a Time: Revolutionary War Pension Files, Saturday, July 11, 10 to 11:30 a.m.: Mercer County Library’s Hopewell Branch, 245 Pennington-Titusville Road, Pennington, will host a hands-on genealogy and

nJ Fife and drum will perform Wednesday, July 1, during Hamilton township’s independence day Fireworks and concert at Veterans Park.

history program focused on Revolutionary War pension files.

Participants will explore records from a National Archives and National Park Service collaboration. The files may include marriage and family documents, military details, letters, diaries and family trees, giving researchers a window into the lives of Revolutionary War soldiers and their families.

Participants are encouraged to bring a laptop; a limited number will be available on site. Registration is requested. For more information, visit mcl.org.

Lawrence

Summer Jazz Concert: Ambiance Duo with Dennis Ionata, Thursday, July 16, 7 to 8 p.m.: Mercer County Library’s Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, will celebrate Independence Day and America’s 250th anniversary with a patriotic evening of jazz.

The concert features Ambiance Duo — Bob Smith on clarinet and Debbie Smith on bass — joined by trumpeter Dennis Ionata. The program includes “God Bless America,” “America the Beautiful” and “The Star-Spangled Banner,” along with jazz favorites such as “When You’re Smiling,” “All of Me” and “Blue Skies.”

Sponsored by the Friends of the Lawrence Library, the performance gives the semiquincentennial a musical local-library setting. Registration is appreciated. For more information, visit mcl.org.

East Windsor

New Jersey and the American Revolution: 1775-1781, Thursday, July 16, 6 p.m.: Mercer County Library’s Twin Rivers Branch, 276 Abbington Drive, will host Brian Armstrong for a program on New Jersey’s role in the American Revolution.

Armstrong, an independent historian, researcher and author, will discuss New Jersey’s strategic importance during the war because of its location between New York and Philadelphia. The program will touch on Washington’s crossing of the Delaware, the battles of Trenton, Princeton and Monmouth, and other events that gave New Jersey its reputation as the “Crossroads of the American Revolution.”

Armstrong is president of the League of Historical Societies of New Jersey and past president of the South River Historical & Preservation Society. Registration is required. For more information, visit mcl.org.

George Washington’s Ten Crucial Days, Tuesday, July 21, 6:30 to 8 p.m.: Mercer County Library’s Hickory Corner Branch, 138 Hickory Corner Road, will host historian David Price, author of “Winning the Ten Crucial Days,” for a program on Washington’s winter campaign of 1776-77. Price will discuss how leadership, geography, weather and artillery helped shape

the victories at Trenton and Princeton and changed the course of the Revolutionary War. The program places Mercer County and central New Jersey at the center of one of the most consequential military campaigns in American history. Registration is requested. For more information, visit mcl. org.

NJ Needlework: Stitching New Jersey’s Story, Tuesday, July 28, 6:30 to 8 p.m.: Mercer County Library’s Hickory Corner Branch, 138 Hickory Corner Road, will host the founders of the New Jersey Needlework project for a discussion of embroidered scenes highlighting the state’s role in the American Revolution.

The project includes scenes connected to the first reading of the Declaration of Independence in Trenton, Washington’s crossing of the Delaware and the Battle of Trenton. The program combines art, craft and history to show how needlework can be used to tell New Jersey’s Revolutionary story in a visual and tactile way. Registration is requested. For more information, visit mcl.org.

Plainsboro

Summer at the Museum: America Turns 250, Sunday, July 5, 1 to 4 p.m.: The Historic Wicoff House Museum, 641 Plainsboro Road, will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with an afternoon of crafts, games and other family activities at the museum.

The program is part of the museum’s summer programming tied to the semiquincentennial and gives families a way to mark the anniversary through hands-on activities and local history. For more information, visit wicoffhouseplainsboro.com.

Museum Summer Camp, Monday, Aug. 24, 1 to 5 p.m. (also Aug. 25-28, 1 to 5 p.m.): The Historic Wicoff House Museum, 641 Plainsboro Road, will offer a summer camp for children ages 5 to 11 in honor of America’s 250th anniversary.

Campers will step back to 1776 and explore how everyday people lived, worked and created during the nation’s founding era. The camp includes hands-on crafts, art projects, games and experiments inspired by the late 18th century. The fee is $50 for residents and nonresidents. For more information, visit plainsboronj.com.

Summer History Faire, Saturday, Aug. 29, 1 to 4 p.m.: The Historic Wicoff House Museum, 641 Plainsboro Road, will host a Summer History Faire following its America 250 summer camp week.

Details are limited in the museum bulletin, but the event is part of the museum’s summer history programming and should serve as a family-friendly way to continue the semiquincentennial focus at the Wicoff House. For more information, visit wicoffhouseplainsboro.com.

West Windsor

West Windsor Time Capsule Burial, Saturday, July 4, 1:30 p.m.: The Historical Society of West Windsor, 50 Southfield Road, will dedicate a 50-year time capsule to be opened in 2076.

From April through June, the society asked the community to contribute items reflecting modern West Windsor as part of Revolution West Windsor, the township’s semiquincentennial effort. The burial ceremony gives residents a chance to mark America’s 250th anniversary by preserving a snapshot of local life for the next generation. For more information, visit westwindsorhistory.com.

Pie Contest: Red, White, Blue, Saturday, July 4: West Windsor’s red, white and blue pie contest at the West Windsor Community Farmers’ Market is part of Revolution West Windsor programming.

The contest marks the nation’s 250th anniversary through a community food tradition, inviting residents to celebrate with a patriotic theme at one of the township’s regular gathering places. For more information, visit westwindsorfarmersmarket.org.

“11 for Semiquin” Exhibition Opening Reception, Friday, July 10, 7 to 8:30 p.m.: West Windsor Arts, 952 Alexander Road, will host the opening reception for “11 for Semiquin,” an exhibition connected to Revolution West Windsor.

The exhibition features 11 artists selected by juror Tricia Fagan to create new work in response to local museums and historic sites. Partner organizations and historical reenactors are expected at the reception.

The project uses contemporary art to respond to local history and the nation’s 250th anniversary, bringing it into a cultural and community arts setting. For more information, visit westwindsorarts.org.

sports

Patient Lopez delivered when Ravens needed her

By Rich Fisher

For two seasons, Lexi Lopez watched, listened and learned about pitching. And then others watched her dominate.

As a freshman and sophomore for the Robbinsville High softball team, Lopez threw a total of 53 2/3 innings while forging an earned run average of 1.04 and striking out 75.

It was already apparent the talent was there, but she had no problem patiently observing how No. 1 pitcher Katie Ziliani went about her business.

“Not playing a lot in my first two years allowed me to learn a lot from Katie,” Lopez said. “She was an awesome role model and someone I looked up to.

Although I would have loved more playing time, I took full advantage of the time I did get in the circle and at the plate.”

She did indeed, as she also hit .340 with 10 RBIs and five extra-base hits in 50 at-bats.

Then Ziliani graduated, and it was Lexi’s turn.

She was ready, as she continued the legacy of standout pitchers for the

Ravens.

“She had a couple opportunities her freshman and sophomore year to get to that high school level, and she understood her assignment,” said coach Carly Peditto, who was an assistant during Lopez’s first two seasons. “You could see she came in freshman year with fantastic skills as a 14-year-old.

“But she knew her role in the program and was very dedicated in stepping it up each year. When she took over last year, she knew the role she had to step into and took it seriously and dedicated her time and worked at it. She filled those shoes and just dominated.”

Did she ever.

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As a junior, Lopez went 17-6 with a 2.10 ERA and 200 strikeouts in 147 innings. This past season, she was 16-7 with a 1.90 ERA and 191 strikeouts in 151 1/3 innings. She became just the second pitcher in program history, along with the iconic Lauren Fischer, to collect 400 career strikeouts.

In her senior campaign, Lopez was second in the Colonial Valley Conference in strikeouts and innings pitched, third in strikeouts per seven innings, fifth in ERA and seventh in WHIP.

Lopez’s career numbers were 37-16 with a 1.85 ERA and 466 strikeouts in 352 innings.

It was a stellar career and an enjoyable journey for the right-hander.

“Looking back on my high school career, it was better than I expected,” Lopez said. “Throughout my four years, I learned a lot about myself and grew as a player and person. Although we never got the outcome we wanted in the end (a state championship), I truly enjoyed

my four years and being able to contribute to the team in whatever way they needed me.”

Lopez was more than just a pitcher. She also had a career batting average of .358 with a slugging percentage of .482. She collected 69 hits, 19 doubles, a triple, a home run, 37 RBIs and 23 runs scored.

“I mainly batted her fourth or fifth, depending on how our lineup was going,” Peditto said. “She improved greatly; she gained a lot of confidence in herself and started understanding why she is the hitter that she is. She let her skills go into play and trusted herself a little more instead of thinking about it, and she understood she’s a top hitter and she can do anything she sets her mind to.”

Hitting was basically considered a necessary part of the game by Lopez, whose main focus has always been on pitching.

“Even though I never really loved hitting, I still wanted to be able to contribute to my team in the circle and at the plate,” she said. “Although I most likely won’t be hitting in college, I still wanted to make sure I was a strong hitter for the team.”

Lopez’s next stop is Keiser University, an NAIA program in West Palm Beach, Florida, that is coming off the most successful season in program history. Keiser went 46-10, won the Sun Conference Tournament championship and reached the NAIA Tournament. The Seahawks finished the season ranked No. 15 nationally.

“I just think she’s a Florida girl, and it went from there,” Peditto said of Lopez’s

She was correct.

“For as long as I knew I wanted to play softball in college, I always wanted to go somewhere down south and near a beach,” Lopez said. “When I went to visit Keiser, it fulfilled my location, education requirements, and what I was looking for in a softball program. After meeting with the coaches and learning more about the softball program, it felt like the perfect place for me.”

Being in the softball pitcher’s circle has always seemed the perfect place for Lopez.

She began playing T-ball in Lawrence at age 5. Her family moved to Robbinsville when Lexi was 9, and she played on Robbinsville’s 2021 12U All-Star team that reached the Little League World Series. Her travel career started with the West Windsor Ninjas, and she played for the Jersey Outlaws throughout high school while also making appearances with the Ruthless and NJ Heat.

The desire to pitch came from watching her older brother in baseball.

“Watching how the pitcher was involved in every play and always having the ball excited me,” Lopez said. “From there, I asked my parents to put me in pitching lessons. I started when I was about 8 years old through Little League and then continued pitching with Game Time Performance and my pitching coach, Jackie Sasko, who has been a part of this journey with me for the past 10 years.”

developed a few other pitches. Even more important in her mind was developing better temperament.

“I think I grew the most over the last year, learning how to stay calmer in the circle and slow down,” she said. “My coaches always told me it was something I had to work on, so I took that feedback as something to work on in the offseason.”

Lopez felt her biggest career highlight was pitching the Ravens to a 5-4 victory this season over Steinert, which would go on to win the CVC Tournament and its fourth straight state championship.

“Getting a win over a dominant team like them, who I respect so much, was a surreal moment,” she said. “Being put on such a big stage like that is not easy to do, and I was so proud of my team and how everyone contributed and came together.

“She knew the role she had to step into and took it seriously. She filled those shoes and just dominated,” Pedito said.

“My other highlights were finishing with over 400 career strikeouts, making the CVC first team, and receiving the 2026 Athlete of the Year award for Robbinsville.”

She also tied for the most votes from her teammates as to who inspired them the most this season.

The only downside of the season was being upset by Spotswood in the first round of the Central Jersey Group II Tournament.

As she evolved into a top-level pitcher in one of the state’s most competitive conferences, Lopez also showed the kind of leadership qualities that come with being an ace in the circle.

“She’s very dedicated and hardworking and very good with outreach skills to our younger girls,” Peditto said. “She’s very understanding with different skill levels and is very approachable for our younger players.

“She’s overall just a good teammate and fantastic person. She has everyone’s back, whether it’s on or off the field, and even whether it’s verbal or skill-wise on the mound. If someone makes an error, she will motivate them and have their back just verbally, or she’ll have their back by just getting the next batter out to pick them up.”

Like any good hurler, Lopez improved her array of pitches, such as the offspeed curveball and rise ball, and also

“It sucks to lose, especially with it being my final year playing for this team,” Lopez said. “No one expected us to lose in the first round of states, so it was obviously upsetting and did not feel good at all.

“Although it was not the best game I have played, I gave it my all and wanted more than anything for the team to move forward and make it far. I don’t think I am quite over the loss yet, but looking back on the season, there are so many things we accomplished that I am so proud of.”

Once the pain fades, Lopez has an exciting future waiting in Florida, where she will major in health science before pursuing a nursing degree after softball ends.

“I have always wanted to follow in my mom’s footsteps by being a registered nurse,” Lopez said. “My goal is to have a career where I can help others and make a difference.”

It is much like the positive difference she has made for the Ravens softball team these past several years.

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Talking with you has been the point all along

Dr. Patrick Pizzo

SUPERINTENDENT’S CORNER

When I sat down to write my first column for the Robbinsville Advance last year, I had a simple goal in mind: to talk with you. Not at you. Not around you. With you.

Over the past several months, these monthly columns have given me the opportunity to share what is happening inside our three schools, the students achieving remarkable things, the staff working tirelessly every day, the financial challenges we continue to face, and to invite the community into a candid, open conversation that I believe is at the very heart of what makes a school district succeed.

We all know Robbinsville is a community that cares deeply about its schools, and that care deserves to be met with transparency, honesty, and a genuine commitment to ongoing dialogue. Parents, residents, and local stakeholders are not bystanders to what happens in our classrooms — they are partners in it. When we communicate openly and consistently, we constantly work to build something that no curriculum framework or strategic plan can manufacture on its own: trust.

Trust is not given; it is earned, conversation by conversation, column by column, meeting by meeting. It grows when families feel informed about decisions that affect their children. It deepens when residents see that their school district is not operating behind closed doors, but rather reaching outward, inviting questions, and welcoming scrutiny as we tackle difficult budget decisions. And it strengthens every time a community member picks up the Robbinsville Advance, reads something that resonates, and thinks: “I know what’s happening in my schools.” That feeling of connection is not incidental to a school district’s success, it is foundational to it.

The relationship between a school district and its local media matters more than it is sometimes given credit for. Publications like the Robbinsville Advance serve as a critical bridge between the institution and the community it serves. When that bridge is strong: when school leaders engage regularly, share information proactively, and treat beat reporters as partners rather than

obstacles, the whole community benefits. Accurate, consistent coverage helps dispel rumors, provides context for difficult decisions, and celebrates the achievements that might otherwise go unnoticed beyond the walls of a school building.

I have also come to believe, over the course of this very challenging school year, that community communication is not a one-way street. Writing these columns has meant something to me personally because of the responses they have generated: the emails, the conversations after school and community events and the questions raised at board meetings.

Dialogue, real dialogue, sharpens thinking.

It can reveal concerns before they become crises. It reminds those of us in leadership that we are accountable not just to policies and procedures, but to the people who live and raise their families in this town. This is your town and we have the honor of being the stewards of your children’s formal education. None of this is complicated in theory, though it takes real commitment in practice. Busy school administrators can always find reasons to pull inward, to let the communication slide when the calendar fills up and the challenges mount. But those are precisely the moments when reaching out matters most. Communities do not lose faith in their schools because of hard times; they lose faith when they feel left in the dark during them.

As the 2025-26 school year is now concluded and we take a quick breath over the summer, I am grateful for every reader who has followed along, pushed back, shared a kind word, or simply stayed engaged. The Robbinsville Public Schools belong to this community, and I am committed to ensuring that you always feel that way. All voices matter and even communicated disagreements with our district can provide a long-term benefit; your input is always welcome.

The columns will continue. So will the conversation. That, more than anything else, is the point. My regards to our graduating scholars and all of our students moving to the next level of their educational careers. My thoughts on these important academic steps will be highlighted in my next column.

Dr. Patrick Pizzo is superintendent of the Robbinsville

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Celebrating the retirement of Clerk Michele Seigfried

MIKE TODD

MAYOR’S COLUMN

Few positions in local government touch every aspect of municipal life quite like the municipal clerk.

While residents often see elected officials at public events, ribbon cuttings and council meetings, it is the municipal clerk who quietly serves as the institutional backbone of local government, ensuring continuity, preserving history and safeguarding the integrity of the democratic process.

For Robbinsville Township, that steady hand has been Michele Seigfried.

As Michele prepares to retire after nearly 23 years of loyal service to Washington and Robbinsville Township, we have the opportunity to reflect on an extraordinary career defined by public service, professionalism and dedication to the residents of our community.

Michele joined Robbinsville Township in 2003 after five years as the deputy clerk in Plainsboro Township. Over the next two decades, she helped guide our township through significant growth, major municipal initiatives, thousands upon thousands of Open Public Records Act requests and changes in elected leadership. Through it all, she provided the continuity, institutional knowledge and steady leadership that effective local government depends on.

Often considered the hub of municipal operations, the municipal clerk’s role reaches across nearly every part of local government. Michele embodied that

responsibility throughout her career, even when much of her work happened quietly behind the scenes.

Throughout her career, Michele became a respected leader within the profession across New Jersey. That respect was most visibly demonstrated in 2021, when she received the Municipal Clerks’ Association of New Jersey’s prestigious Clerk of the Year Award. That award recognized not only her professional accomplishments, but also the integrity, commitment and excellence that have defined her career.

Michele has been a tremendous mentor, a voracious problem-solver and a source of wisdom for elected officials, including myself, township staff and fellow clerks across the state. She approaches every challenge with professionalism, every question with patience and every responsibility with a commitment to getting it exactly right. Her attention to detail, deep understanding of municipal operations and unwavering commitment to public service have helped ensure that Robbinsville’s government remains transparent, efficient and responsive.

As she begins a well-deserved retirement, we celebrate not only a remarkable career, but also a remarkable person. While Robbinsville Township will miss her daily presence and expertise, we are deeply grateful for the nearly 23 years she devoted to serving our community.

On behalf of the residents, employees, elected officials and everyone whose lives and careers she has touched, thank you, Michele, for your service, your Robbinsville municipal clerk michele seigfried

her

the year award.(Photo by dennis symons Jr.).

leadership and your unwavering dedication to Robbinsville Township.

Your contributions have left an indelible mark on our community, and your legacy will endure long after your final day in office.

Congratulations on a well-earned retirement, and we wish you and your family much happiness and relaxation!

* * *

Thank you, Robbinsville, for the incredible turnout on June 13 for our 45th Community Festival and my first as mayor.

From Jodi Stephens and her Recreation Division team of Kevin Holt, Libny Sanchez, Anabella Marino, Josephine “Cherry” Hammond and Hope Neis, to our relentless Department of Public Works, Business Administrator Bruce

R. Darvas and administration, police and fire departments, to our many volunteers, EDAC, nonprofits, food vendors and Prize Alley partners, we couldn’t be more proud to have made this celebration — capped by a tremendous fireworks display — one of the best in recent memory.

Happy 250th birthday, America! We look forward to celebrating you again this month, including July 4 at the West Town Center Lake Gazebo at 9 a.m. as we join the Robbinsville Hamilton Rotary to host a public reading of the Declaration of Independence. Come one, come all!

Mike Todd is the mayor and director of Public safety for the township of Robbinsville.

with

2021-2022 municipal clerk of

Why hospital volunteers matter more than ever

Ask The Doctor

See our ads in SIX09 section pgs 5 and 7

When most people think about heath care and hospitals, they picture doctors, nurses, technicians, therapists, support staff and clinical professionals. Yet some of the most meaningful moments in a patient’s health care journey are made possible by another group of dedicated individuals—volunteers.

“I see firsthand the impact volunteers have on our patients, families and our entire team every day,” says Seth Rosenbaum, MD, MMM, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, an RWJBarnabas Health facility. “While they may not provide medical care, volunteers help create something equally important—a welcoming, compassionate environment that supports healing.”

For patients a volunteer’s smile, kind

conversation or helping hand can make a stressful day feel a little lighter for a moment. Whether escorting someone to an appointment, assisting visitors with wayfinding, delivering comfort items, providing spiritual support, playing a harp, delivering pet therapy, knitting a blanket or performing Reiki, volunteers help patients and impact their care.

What Are Five Reasons to Become a Hospital Volunteer?

1. Make a Meaningful Difference: A simple act of kindness, a warm greeting, helping someone find their way or offering a reassuring presence can make a lasting impact on a patient or family member during a difficult or uncertain time.

you call home.

3. Gain Purpose and Connection: Volunteers often describe their service as rewarding and fulfilling. It’s an opportunity to meet new people, build new relationships and experience personal satisfaction of helping others.

4. Learn and Grow: Whether you’re exploring healthcare careers, an adult looking to develop new skills or experiences, or a retiree seeking meaningful engagement, volunteering offers valuable experiences and lifelong learning opportunities, as well as being impressive on a resume.

wise noted. View the calendar of programs available online at rwjbh.org/hamiltonprograms, or for more information or to register, call 609-584-5900 or email CommunityEdHAM@rwjbh.org. Registration is required to attend these programs.

THURSDAY, JULY 2

Grief & Loss Support Group. 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. -- also on thursday, July 16 -- if you have lost a loved one or been separated from your support system, you can find comfort and begin to cope better by interacting with others. a senior Well-Being specialist will moderate.

MONDAY, JULY 6

2. Give Back to Your Community: Volunteering is a powerful way to support a local organization that cares for your neighbors, friends and even loved ones. Your time helps strengthen the health and wellbeing of the entire community

5. Support People and People Who Care for People: “Volunteers are the quiet force behind the scenes,” adds Dr. Rosenbaum. “They are an extraordinary group of people whose compassion, generosity, talent and commitment help transform healthcare into a truly human experience. The time they give to our hospital helps strengthen the fabric of compassionate care.”

Ready to Get Involved?

Volunteers are asked to commit to one shift per week, typically 3 to 4 hours per week, for a minimum of one year. Most assignments take place during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Limited opportunities may also be available outside of these hours. Volunteers serve in a variety of areas throughout the hospital, including the mailroom, stock room, food service areas and patient care units where they provide administrative support.

Taking the first step is easy. Complete and submit a Volunteer Interest Form or Adult Volunteer Profile Form. The application process typically takes a few weeks and includes requirements that must be completed prior to starting.

Learn more and apply online today at rwjbh.org/hamiltonvolunteer

RWJUH Hamilton support groups this month

The following programs are sponsored by RWJUH Hamilton Community Education, open to all and all ages, and the Better Health Program, open to all 65+ years old. All programs take place at the Center for Health & Wellness located at RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd., Hamilton, NJ 08619--unless other-

Caring for Loved Ones with Chronic Conditions - Support Group. 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. -also on monday, July 13 -- caring for someone with a chronic illness can take a physical and emotional toll on family members. a caregiver specialist will conduct these interactive groups on crucial topics and facilitate this supportive group experience.

TUESDAY, JULY 7

Alzheimer’s Support Group. 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. -- also on Wednesday, July 15, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. -- support and information for family and friends of people with alzheimer’s disease. a caregiver specialist will conduct these interactive groups on crucial topics and facilitate a supportive group experience. Breast Cancer Support Group- (First Tuesday of every month). 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Presented by an oncology nurse navigator and certified oncology social worker from the cancer center at RWJUH Hamilton, this support group welcomes those who have received a breast cancer diagnosis in all phases of their journey, and offers participants an opportunity to share personal experiences, helpful resources, and methods of coping with feelings of anxiety and distress. Please call 609.584.2836 to confirm attendance.

TUESDAY, JULY 21

Gynecological Cancer Support Group. 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. *note, this support group meets at the cancer center at RWJUH Hamilton, 2575 Klockner Rd., Hamilton, nJ. For more information or to register, call 609-584-6680.

TUESDAY, JULY 28

Stoke Support Group. 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. the group will share personal experiences, feelings, recovery strategies, and firsthand information on managing a healthy lifestyle after a stroke. meetings are facilitated by two outpatient rehabilitation therapists: ashley sarrol speech- language Pathologist, and allyson Panikowski-Berry Occupational therapist, of RWJ Rehabilitation Hamilton. all are welcome at any stage of recovery and encouraged to attend with their loved ones.

dr. seth Rosenbaum

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