High School North wins first volleyball division title
BY JUSTIN FEIL
Kavin Soundirarajan has eyed the North High boys volleyball banner wistfully throughout his career.
“Each year our coach would point out the banner, which would be completely empty with no years, and tell us this year we’re going to put a year up there,” said the Knights senior. “And we haven’t done it yet.”
The banner will be blank no more after a three-set 25-20, 17-25, 25-23 win over rival South High on May 16 helped
them improve to 17-6 overall and 6-1 in the Burlington County Scholastic League Liberty Division. The win earns them a league regular-season title and a “2025” listing on the banner.
“It’s a really big thing for all of us,” Soundirarajan said. “We’re happy that we could do this first.”
Soundirarajan led the Knights with 12 kills, the fourth time this season he’s had double-digit kills in a game. That’s something that never happened before this year, and it’s due to a big position change
See VOLLEYBALL, Page 10
Celebrating WW’s role in the fight for U.S. independence
BY ARIANNA MCCLEOD
Long before it became a modern township, the land that is now West Windsor played a pivotal role in the Revolutionary War—a history that’s now coming to light through a communitywide celebration.
“It is everyone’s history in town, whether or not their families have lived here for 200 years or two weeks,” said Paul Ligeti, chair of the Revolution West Windsor committee and president of
the Historical Society of West Windsor. “West Windsor has a history that’s worth celebrating and commemorating.”
The ongoing initiative, part of the nation’s 250th birthday—also known as the Semiquincentennial—brings dozens of community groups, historians, artists, and volunteers to honor the town’s role in the American Revolution and to reflect on how local history shapes identity.
Although West Windsor did not officially exist during the Revolution—it was part of Windsor Township until 1797— the land that makes up today’s town was home to several important figures and events.
“There’s a few dozen soldiers who are
Revolution remembered Dutch Neck students debut NASA Moon Tree
BY BILL SANSERVINO
Students at Dutch Neck School in West Windsor are now part of an interstellar legacy—one that began 280,000 miles from Earth and landed right in their backyard.
To celebrate Earth Day and Arbor Day, Jeff Eikelberner’s third-grade class introduced the school’s new Artemis Moon Tree during two special programs in April.
The sweetgum seedling, which germinated from a seed that orbited the moon aboard NASA’s 2022 Artemis I mission, is
now planted near the pond in West Windsor’s Ron Rogers Arboretum.
The tree’s arrival was met with excitement and wonder during a school assembly on April 22. It featured a loud countdown before the seedling was wheeled onto the stage by students.
“It was beyond fun and the children were amazed,” event organizers said.
Just days later, students and families gathered again for an Arbor Day celebration, where the Moon Tree was officially presented to the public.
High School North volleyball player Kavin Soundirarajan jumps to spike the ball.
RWJUH Hamilton June Healthy Living / Community Education Programs
CARING FOR LOVED ONES WITH CHRONIC CONDITIONS
Mondays, June 2 & 9; 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
ADULT CHILDREN CARING FOR PARENTS
Mondays, June 2 & 9; 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
LETTING GO OF CLUTTER
Tuesday, June 3; 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP
Wednesday, June 4; 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
GRIEF & LOSS SUPPORT GROUP
Thursdays, June 5 & 12; 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP
Wednesday, June 11; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
THE AARP DRIVING COURSE
Monday, June 2; 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Be a safer, better driver. Most insurance companies will lower your premium with a completion certificate. Bring your NJ or PA driver’s license. Fee: $20 for AARP members presenting a valid AARP card; $25 for nonmembers. Bring cash (exact change) or check (payable to “AARP”) with you on the day of the class.
BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, June 3; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Presented by The Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton, this support group welcomes those who have received a breast cancer diagnosis in all phases of their journey. An oncology nurse navigator and certified oncology social worker will offer participants an opportunity to share personal experiences, helpful resources, and methods of coping with feelings of anxiety and distress. Please call
YOGA CLASSES
609.584.2836 to confirm attendance.
ASK THE
DIETITIAN
Wednesday, June 4, 12; 1:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Wednesday, June 9; 5:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m.
Meet with our Registered Dietitian for a 30-minute appointment to discuss your unique nutritional needs. Registration is required. Call 609-584-5900 to schedule your appointment.
MEDICARE 101: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW!
Thursday, June 5; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
If you’re turning 65 in the next few years, or losing employer coverage, this is the class for you. Join a licensed insurance agent specializing in Medicare and ACA to learn how to navigate the transition and how to avoid late enrollment penalties.
THE POWER OF FOOD: NUTRITION STRATEGIES FOR DIABETES
Monday, June 9; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Tuesday, June 24; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Join us for our monthly series. Learn how to manage and control your diabetes through dietary choices and meal planning, and how nutrition affects blood sugar levels. These two sessions will occur the second Monday (daytime) and fourth Tuesday (evening) each month.
WII GAMES
Monday, June 9; 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Friday, June 27; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Join RWJ Rehabilitation, RWJUH Hamilton, for this fun hour of Wii games and learn about safe
Better Health is a free program
Tuesday, June 3 & 17; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. MEDITATION CLASSES
Tuesday, June 3 & 17; 11:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
CHAIR YOGA
Tuesday, June 3 & 17; 12:00 p.m. - 12:45 p.m.
TAI CHI
Tuesday, June 12, & 26; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
A SOCIAL HOUR ESPECIALLY FOR SENIORS
Wednesday, June 4, 11, 18, & 25; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Don’t miss an opportunity to participate in lifechanging conversations, listening, learning, and exploring for this time in our lives. Every week is new and something different.
GAME TIME!
Friday, June 6 & 27; 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Join us for good wholesome fun – let’s play a game! Sharpen your skills or jump back into something you always enjoyed. Snacks and a variety of board
mechanics. Mastering body movement is leveling up your real-life stats. Play smart, move like a pro, and stay in the game longer!
PREDIABETES CONNECT GROUP
Tuesday, June 17; 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
For those diagnosed with prediabetes, this group is for you to connect with others affected, share and explore ways to improve lifestyle.
GYNECOLOGICAL CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, June 17; 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.
BASIC CAR MAINTENANCE
Tuesday, June 17; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Now, more than ever, it’s important to take care of the vehicle you own. Join a master mechanic and learn how to protect one of your biggest investments.
MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS
Wednesday, June 18; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Learn how to help heal your body and relax your busy mind. No experience necessary.
games will be available, or you are welcome to bring your own. A great way to meet new friends!
LUNCH & LEARN: CUTTING THE CORD ON CABLE - YOUR GUIDE TO STREAMING FREEDOM
Monday, June 9; 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Whether you are tech-savvy or just starting out, this program will guide you step-by-step on how to break free from traditional cable TV and embrace the world of streaming.
LUNCH & LEARN: BETTER SLEEP, BETTER LIFE WITH PALAKKUMAR PATEL, MD
Friday, June 13; 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
This program combines evidence-based medical insights with practical strategies to address common sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, as well as pulmonary illnesses such as COPD, and is being presented by Palakkummar Patel, MD, member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group, board-certified in internal medicine, pulmonary-critical care
SACRED BREATHWORK
Wednesday, June 18; 6:00 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.
Join a Reiki Master and certified breathwork facilitator to learn how sacred breathwork can help release negative patterns and fears that keep us stuck. Please bring a yoga mat, blanket, or anything else that will make you comfortable. Chairs will be available. Fee: $15
STROKE SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, June 24; 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Join us for the Stroke Support Group, a place for survivors and caregivers to build a community. Share personal experiences, feelings, recovery strategies, and firsthand information on managing life after stroke. Meetings will be facilitated by two outpatient RWJUH Hamilton Rehab experts, Ashley Sarrol, SpeechLanguage Pathologist, & Allyson Panikowski-Berry, Occupational Therapist. Survivors and care partners at any stage of recovery are encouraged to attend.
HEARING AND BALANCE SCREENINGS
Wednesday, June 25; 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Join us for free screenings on the last Wednesday of every month! These 15-minute appointments are designed to help assess your hearing health or your balance health/fall risk. For more information or to reserve your required appointment, call 609245-7390. Location: RWJ Balance & Hearing Center, 2 Hamilton Health Pl, Hamilton Township, NJ.
medicine and sleep medicine at RWJUH Hamilton. GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE WELLNESS WALK, RWJUH HAMILTON
Wednesday, June 18; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Friday, June 20; 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Grounds for Sculpture welcomes us for their Wellness Walk! Join us to boost your energy, connect with nature, explore art and meet new people. Better Health Member attendees are invited to enjoy GFS for the remainder of the day. Please only register for one date.
LUNCH & LEARN: ADVANCED PODIATRY CARE PROGRAM WITH JESSICA COLLINS, DPM AND JASON JOLLIFFE, DPM
Thursday, June 19; 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Join us for our first program focusing on podiatric conditions, including preventive care, diabetic foot management, and surgical interventions.
Jessica Collins, DPM, and Jason Jolliffe, DPM, both board-certified in podiatry, members of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group, RWJUH Hamilton
WHAT’S NEW IN HEARING AIDS
Wednesday, June 25; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Come join us as we dive into discovering how a new technology in hearing aids uses a dual-chip design and AI-driven noise cancellation to enhance speech clarity in noisy environments and provides a more natural hearing experience. Join Lorraine Sgarlato, AuD, to learn about the latest in this hearing aid technology. Light refreshments will be served.
HEART-HEALTHY NUTRITION
Wednesday, June 25; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Join Lori Hager, MS, RD, for our bimonthly nutrition education class. Learn about making dietary choices that support cardiovascular health and the principles of heart-healthy nutrition. Gain tips for meal planning and preparation while exploring hearthealthy recipes.
REIKI SHARE
Wednesday, June 25; 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
For folks who have been Reiki certified (at any level) to come share the gift with fellow practitioners. Give a session, get a session. Please bring a sheet and small pillow.
WISE WOMEN DISCUSSION GROUP
Thursday, June 26; 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Join a community of women as we discuss relevant topics and find purpose, meaning and community.
*All programs require registration and are held at the RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd., Hamilton, NJ, unless otherwise noted.
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Center for Wound Healing, provide comprehensive foot and ankle care, including treatments for injury, trauma, and wound care.
NOURISH YOUR BRAIN: COOKING FOR BRAIN HEALTH
Friday, June 20; 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Have some fun while learning recipes that can help fuel your brain.
LUNCH & LEARN: UNDERSTANDING YOUR GYNECOLOGICAL HEALTHESSENTIAL INFORMATION FOR YOUR AGE
Tuesday, June 24; 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Navigating your gynecological health can feel complex. Join RWJ Center for Women’s Health physicians Gary Brickner, MD, and Robert Mayson, MD, both boardcertified in obstetrics & gynecology and members of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group, RWJUH Hamilton, who will provide helpful information tailored to the health considerations relevant to your age and discuss minimally-invasive robotic-assisted surgical procedures.
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
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“Seeing our newly planted Moon Tree seedling, surrounded by all of the mature trees in our family of trees at the Arboretum—it is simply amazing,” said Teresa Lourenco, vice chair of the West Windsor Board of Recreation and Parks, who helped secure the tree.
The Moon Tree’s journey from orbit to West Windsor was years in the making. NASA and the U.S. Forest Service launched the Artemis Moon Tree project to echo the legacy of the original Moon Trees carried by Apollo 14 astronaut Stuart Roosa in 1971.
Those seeds were later planted across the country as part of the nation’s bicentennial celebration.
In 2022, seeds from five North American tree species—including sweetgum, sycamore, Douglas fir, loblolly pine, and giant sequoia—returned from the moon after a 26-day flight on the Orion spacecraft. Once germinated, seedlings were distributed to select educational and public institutions.
Dutch Neck School was among the few chosen to receive one, thanks to the joint efforts of Eikelberner and Lourenco.
letter to their future selves.
In 2013, one of those students—Dean Lourenco—received his letter just before graduating high school in 2022. The moment sparked a reconnection between student and teacher and later inspired Dean’s mother to forward the NASA Moon Tree application.
“Mr. Eikelberner would love that!” Lourenco said during a car ride to college after hearing a NASA announcement on the radio. By August 2023, the application was submitted, and West Windsor was one step closer to receiving its own lunar legacy.
The project has already had a deep impact on students and families.
“My son was so excited he had a tough time sleeping,” one parent shared. “She had a great time at Arbor Day.” another added.
Comments like, “This is great,” and “This feels special,” poured in from teachers, parents and students.
Dutch Neck School now plans to build educational programming around the Moon Tree, integrating lessons about space science, Earth systems, and conservation.
Civic group plans forum for 2025 election
West Windsor Forward, a civic group led by local residents and students, will host a nonpartisan candidate forum for the 2025 municipal elections.
The event will take place Thursday, Sept. 25, at Kelsey Theater at Mercer County Community College, and will feature candidates running for West Windsor mayor and two Township Council seats.
The forum is expected to run from 7 to 9:15 p.m., depending on candidate participation.
This is the first time since 2013 that a mayoral forum will be held in West Windsor, and the first since 2015 for Township Council candidates.
“We are committed to fostering civic engagement, promoting informed dialogue, and working to improve the quality of life for all West Windsor residents,” said West Windsor Forward in a statement.
“Mr. Eikelberner’s third-grade class was named as stewards for West Windsor’s new Artemis Moon Tree, a sweetgum seedling germinated from a seed flown on a 2022 NASA mission around the moon,” said Lourenco. “That’s right, our Moon Tree Seed orbited the Moon.”
See FORUM, Page 6 TREE continued from Page 1
The project’s roots go deeper than just science. The idea to apply for the Moon Tree grew from a heartfelt tradition. Each year, Eikelberner has his students write a
The dedication ceremony is still to come, pending an official certificate from NASA.
“We invite you into our parks to explore,” Lourenco said. “Our Moon Tree journey has only just begun.”
The organization is led by Parth Gupta and Darshan Chidambaram, students at the Lawrenceville School and long-time West Windsor residents. In addition to the live in-person event, the forum will be live-streamed.
The event will feature three panelists with varied backgrounds:
We are a newsroom of your neighbors. The West Windsor and Plainsboro News is for local people, by local people. As part of the community, the Gazette does more than just report the news—it connects businesses with their customers, organizations with their members and neighbors with one another. As such, our staff sets out to make our town a closer place by giving readers a reliable source to turn to when they want to know what’s going on in their neighborhood.
SENIOR COMMUNITY EDITOR
Bill Sanservino (Ext. 104)
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Arianna McCleod, Justin Feil
CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST
Paul Ligetti
AD LAYOUT AND PRODUCTION
Stephanie Jeronis
ACCOUNT SALES EXECUTIVE
Gina Carillo (Ext. 112)
Community News Service
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Dutch Neck School teacher Jeff Eikelberner at the Rob Rogers Arboretum with the Moon Tree sapling.
Micah Rasmussen, director of the Rebovich Institute for New Jersey Politics at Rider University; David Matthau, N.J. Statehouse reporter for WHYY and an award-winning journalist; and
Rhea Biswas, a West Windsor high school student passionate about politics and social justice.
Biswas is active in debate competitions and Model Congress conferences. She also writes for her school newspaper and a local West Windsor online news publication.
The forum will follow a three-part format: equal-time Q&A from panelists, a town-hall style Q&A with audience-submitted questions, and an informal meet-andgreet between voters and candidates.
Organizers said the forum will be moderated to ensure fairness, equal speaking time, and civil discourse. Personal attacks will not be permitted.
Seats up for election include those currently held by Mayor Hemant Marathe and councilmembers Martin Whitfield and Linda Geevers. A separate forum may be scheduled for Board of Education candidates if three or more individuals file to run for two available seats.
West Windsor Forward said the event will also serve as a broader civic engagement opportunity. Attendees can speak
directly with candidates, interact with community groups, and participate in local democracy.
Free tickets may be required depending on anticipated turnout, and would be made available online in September. A YouTube livestream will also be offered.
Declared candidates, volunteers, and local organizations are encouraged to reach out via email to participate or get involved. For more information, email emailparth11@gmail.com or darshan.chids@ gmail.com.
WW Farmers’ market returns for 22nd year
The West Windsor Community Farmers’ Market has reopened for its 22nd season, offering fresh produce, artisan goods and community programming every Saturday through Thanksgiving.
Held rain or shine from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Princeton Junction Train Station (southbound side), the market features more than 50 local farms and vendors.
“The market is an epic destination for local food; a comprehensive shop or simply a fun walkabout awaits,” said Market Manager Chris Cirkus.
New this season are rotating appearances from New Jersey-based brewers, distillers and hard cider makers. Culinary-adjacent
artisans, including potters and woodworkers, will also join the vendor lineup.
A mobile sharpening service will continue to offer on-site blade, knife and tool sharpening.
Among the new vendors this year are Kafe Ojala (locally roasted coffee), Living Smart Granola (gluten-free granola), Nutty Novelties (nut butters), and The Salt & Savor Apothecary (herbal wellness products).
Returning favorites include Jeff’s Organic Produce, Jammin’ Crêpes, Gorgeous Goat Creamery, LoRe Pasta, Catalina Empanadas, Bebe’s All Natural, Pineapple Pink, Stefan’s Pure Blend and Tico’s Juice Truck.
Other offerings include pastured meats and eggs, freshly milled oats and flours, sourdough breads, cookies, gluten-free and vegan baked goods, pickles, jams, hot sauces, seafood, alpaca wear, pesticide-free flowers, CBD teas and more.
The market accepts SNAP benefits and doubles up to $25 per card per day for fruits and vegetables. Several farms also accept WIC and FMNP/SFMNP benefits.
Live music and community group participation continue to be central to the weekly market atmosphere. A rotating schedule of musicians, artists, nonprofit groups and civic organizations will appear throughout the season.
On June 7, attendees will find representatives from Friends of West Windsor Open Space, Girl Scouts working on forestation and composting projects, and the Sierra Club. Cool-n-Airy makers include Non-Linear Handmade and Off the Knife Woodworks. Musician Felix Bucellato will perform.
June 14 brings back the Bicycle and Pedestrian Alliance and the West Windsor Health Department, this time with information on tickborne diseases. The West Windsor Library Children’s Librarian will be on site, and the Yes, We CAN! food drive returns. Nedley Turns Wood is featured again alongside music from ALBO (A Little Bit Off). Coldwell Banker Global Luxury sponsors the week.
On June 21, the League of Women Voters and West Windsor Arts will participate, with makers Nedley Turns Wood, NonLinear Handmade and Yardsale Press. Students from Stibol Music will perform. The sponsor is All American Gutter Protection. The June 28 market will host EASEL for dog adoption, the Sierra Club, the Bicycle and Pedestrian Alliance, and the Yes, We CAN! food drive. Off the Knife Woodworks and The Wheeling Gypsy will return, with live music by Carmen Maranco. Daylight Energy is the featured sponsor.
For a full list of vendors, events and updates, visitwwcfm.org.
Crucial Days,” a pivotal period between Dec. 25, 1776, and Jan. 3, 1777, when three major battles revitalized the American cause.
“Those three battles collectively helped convince a lot of Washington’s men, who were otherwise set to leave the army, to stay on. They convinced a lot of new recruits to sign up,” Ligeti said. “They also signaled to others—including the French, who eventually backed the Americans—that the effort was not lost.”
As British General Charles Cornwallis prepared to march from Princeton to retake Trenton from Washington, a scouting party, sent by Washington on Dec. 30th, captured British troops in West Windsor.
“The captured troops were taken back to Trenton and interrogated and they revealed information that Charles Cornwallis was coming to attack Trenton. So with that, Washington was able to prepare for the attack on the city and stave off Cornwallis’ superior forces,” Ligeti said.
REVOLUTION continued from Page 1
from present-day West Windsor Township’s borders who either lived here or owned land in the area,” Ligeti said. “In addition to that, Richard Stockton, who was a signer of the Declaration of Independence, owned land in present-day
West Windsor.”
Stockton’s property, about 300 acres purchased in 1765, lies off Village Road West—now the site of the Mercer Oaks golf course.
Other prominent locals included Jacob Bergen, a Revolutionary War soldier and
prolific tavern owner who operated out of Dutch Neck. One of Bergen’s taverns— known today as Wowburger’s Tavern— still stands and was where the township’s first government meetings were held.
West Windsor’s most compelling Revolutionary tale, Ligeti said, ties into the “10
“These three battles, I mean, a little hyperbolic to say they saved the war, but they really did change the trajectory,” Ligeti said.
Ligeti said that although many of the key Revolutionary-era sites in West Windsor are now private residences or spread
See REVOLUTION, Page 8
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town,” Ligeti said.
out across town, efforts are underway to mark them with interpretive signs.
Many events tied to Revolution West Windsor are being hosted at the Historical Society’s home site on the Schenck Farmstead on Southfield Road, where exhibits and archives bring the town’s history to life.
The idea for Revolution West Windsor began brewing years ago.
“We knew most towns across the United States, most cities, most states would be celebrating this anniversary,” Ligeti said. “So it was kind of imperative that we did as well.”
Ligeti formed a committee late last year to bring together local organizations. “We held a meeting in December, and we’ve met a few times since then. This really is a township-wide initiative.”
The coalition includes the township itself, the Historical Society of West Windsor, both volunteer fire companies, the West Windsor Arts Council, the West Windsor Community Farmers’ Market, the Bicycle and Pedestrian Alliance, the West Windsor Township Division of Recreation and Parks, West Windsor Lions Club, and the Daughters of the American Revolution. The police department has also expressed interest in joining.
The Historical Society is also working with the Friends of West Windsor Open Space and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Alliance on developing a trail to highlight the region’s Indigenous history.
Ligeti’s main responsibility as committee chair is making sure events are well publicized and that groups cross-promote one another. “We have more volunteers than we did in the past,” he said. They’ve really stepped up and taken on leadership roles.”
The planning committee currently includes about a dozen regular participants, with community groups largely in charge of organizing their own events.
One way residents can get involved is through the town’s Revolution West Windsor logo contest.
“It’s more about the cross-promotion that’s committee-wide,” Ligeti said.
One way residents can get involved right now is through the town’s Revolution West Windsor logo contest. “We’re definitely looking for more people to submit,” Ligeti said. “This is their opportunity to get involved and have their logo design featured for about a year and a half.”
The contest is open to all current and former West Windsor residents with no age limit. This contest will determine the official logo for the celebration.
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“So far we have about 50 to 60 events already lined up between now and the end of December 2026,” Ligeti said.
These events will range from lectures and concerts to walking tours and dances. One standout event is the annual History Music Fest at the farmstead. The event has always been a multicultural celebration, giving performers a chance to share their culture and religion through music and art. Next year, it will continue to highlight that diversity while incorporating more Revolutionary themes into performances.
Other highlights include historical bike and walking tours and potentially a community time capsule. “We have to figure out what to put in it, of course,” Ligeti added with a laugh.
Although it’s a history-focused initiative, Revolution West Windsor emphasizes accessibility and engagement across all ages.
“We’ve been working more with Scouts and Girl Scouts to do projects at the museum and around town. For example, there was a scout who installed a marker to the trolley line that used to run through
“It’ll be used across town on flyers, merchandise, and general promotion. The more submissions, the better,” Ligeti said.
The contest will run until June 1, and the winner will be revealed at the West Windsor Township picnic on June 14. A panel made up of the Historical Society of West Windsor and the West Windsor Arts Council will select the winning design. For more information on the contest, go to westwindsorarts.org or westwindsorhistory.com.
As more events begin rolling out, Ligeti hopes they’ll spark long-term interest in preserving local history.
“We are 100% volunteer-run,” he emphasized. “There’s plenty of opportunities, we’re certainly looking to get more into preservation, event planning, and expanding our presence in town.”
Ligeti is hopeful this celebration will increase residents’ interest to learn more about their town’s history.
When asked what he hopes people will take away from the celebration, his answer is simple: “History is not something that just happened in the past—it’s ongoing. Its effects are still felt to this day.”
FREE UPCOMING HEALTH EDUCATION EVENTS
Register by calling 609.394.4153 or register online at capitalhealth.org/events and be sure to include your email address. Zoom meeting details will be provided via email 2 – 3 days before the program date. Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.
Achieve More with a Healthy Pelvic Floor
Thursday, June 5, 2025 | 6 p.m.
Location: Zoom Meeting
Are you experiencing pain in your pelvic area during sex, personal care, or urination/bowel movements? It’s time to advocate for yourself!
Join Kathie Olson, nurse practitioner and program director for Capital Health’s Center for Incontinence and Pelvic Health, to learn strategies for living your life without pelvic pain. Kathie will be joined by Rachel Hannum-Grinstead, a licensed pelvic health therapist, who will discuss the benefits of pelvic floor physical therapy. All genders are welcome!
Men’s Health: Take the Lead on the Path to Wellness
Wednesday, June 11, 2025 | 6 p.m.
Location: Zoom Meeting
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for Soundirarajan. When he took up the game for North as a freshman, it was as a middle. He stood out for his high-flying.
“I remember watching him play me and the freshman coach and the JV coaches and I, we were just always astounded because when he jumps he just kind of floats and hangs in the air for a second,” said North coach Ryan Lagomarsino. “It just seems to defy gravity before he then falls back down to earth. We kind of saw that vertical and that athleticism when he was a freshman.”
The last time he was tested, the 6-feet-2 Soundirarajan could reach up to 11-feet when he jumped.
“It’s probably higher than that now,” Soundirarajan said.
Soundirarajan played middle on the Knights’ first full freshman squad, then moved to JV for his second year at middle and finally played middle last year at the varsity level for the first time. The graduation of three-year starter Dhruv Chaturvedi left an opening for outside hitter, and Soundirarajan wanted a shot at the spot which is often called pin.
“At club, I saw a lot of middles that were really tall compared to me and just did not have a chance against them at middle, so I just switched to being a pin here and I found that I was just much better hitting a slower set,” Soundirarajan said. “Middles have to be very fast and get everywhere across the net to block as well. I’m more of a slower player, but I can jump high so I think I’m better suited to an outside hitter position.”
There was more than just moving spots to become a good outside hitters. Outside hitters must be able to pass and receive serve and play defense, including dig, some widely different skills from what he’s focused on his first three seasons. As a middle, Soundirarajan focused more on blocking and quick attacks. But when he came back for this spring season, he’d been working on his passing and defense and showed he could really hit too.
“I kind of had in my mind who was probably going to fill in that spot,” Lagomarsino said. “But then when he came back and was doing that, t he people that I kind of thought were going to be there, all of a sudden they all just got pushed back.”
It’s worked out well for North. Soundirarajan leads the team with 168 kills, and he’s been solid with 49 digs, 27 blocks and 14 service aces. Soundirarajan took up club volleyball with CORE Volleyball in Hillsborough over the last two years and that’s helped him develop his game year-round.
“He worked on all the little things that we told him to work on if he wanted to actually play in that spot,” Lagomarsino
High School North’s Kavin Soundirarajan gives “low fives” to teammates following a volleyball victory.
said. “We don’t win a lot of those tougher games against those really good opponents without him because with his vertical and his reach and everything, we know that he can hit over people trying to block him a lot of times, and when he gets a hold of it, it’s hitting the 10-foot line or closer, which are very, very difficult to get.”
The Knights got a total team effort to sweep their South rivals in two regularseason matches. Maanav Dhruv had 17 assists and four digs, Matthew Reybert had 14 assists, Keshav Batra came up with 12 digs, Jai Garg had three kills, four blocks and two digs and Sarthak Chauhan and Meer Patel had five kills apiece.
“It felt like it was probably the biggest game and most important game in our programs history that Friday,” said Lagomarsino.
On top of it, the two schools used the rivalry to fuel their Volley For Life fundraiser that supports the American Cancer Society. The match took in a record of more than $3,000. The schools may play again if they meet in the final of the conference tournament, which South was hosting and top-seeded for based unusually enough on last year’s power points. North is the No. 2 seed.
“We broke through the first ceiling of winning the division,” Lagomarsino said. “Now I’m hoping we can take care of business.”
The last steps are the hardest. The Knights have had a stretch of really solid seasons that have ended with heartbreak. In each of the last two seasons, North has won 18 games apiece, but they’ve lost two years in a row in the conference semifinals and then twice in a row in the state tournament quarterfinals. But this year’s
team feels built for a deeper run.
“Freshman year, we had Max Finkelstein who was basically the ace of the team, just almost carrying the team,” Soundirarajan said. “Seeing him really inspired me to hopefully one day be as good as him or be better. I’m happy that I maybe help my team like this, but overall our team’s a lot better than back then. We’re more well-rounded than before.”
Soundirarajan is one of 10 seniors on the team. The Knights are more experienced and physically bigger and stronger than many opponents after being on the flip side of that look for years. Their experience was a big plus coming into the season, and it’s played out.
“I do think that this is the best season in North history so far,” Lagomarsino said. “It’s kind of nice because this is my fourth year as a head coach, so our varsity team, if you look at it, it is 12 players, 10 of which are seniors and the seniors, I’ve been working with all of them since they were freshmen.”
Lagomarsino has kept a consistent formula that develops players’ all-around skills in practices. It’s another thing that has helped to bring along the Knights and put them in a position to compete for championships. This year, they earned one with their record in-conference.
“It does help to have a more well-
rounded team,” he said. “So even if one person isn’t doing as well, everyone else can help cover that up. So that way we can really be consistent.”
Soundirarajan will be balancing a strong academic schedule at Rutgers next year while continuing to focus on his fitness in the gym in his spare time. He’s also considering playing for the club team and building on what’s been a career that has seen a steady progression.
“We all have a lot of experiences playing over four years,” Soundirarajan said. “So the first year we played is the first year that we had a freshman team. That allowed more people to practice compared to just having JV and varsity teams because a lot of freshmen would get cut from the JV team. I think that was a really big difference that our coaches put in when we started playing that allowed us to get better and have more chemistry with each other as we play each season. And we also have a lot of people playing club volleyball, which is during the offseason that allowed us to keep working on our skills outside of school.”
The results have been tangible. When Soundirarajan returns to North following graduation, he’ll be looking at proudly at the banner along with his teammates, and knowing that his big move helped to bring the Knights their first championship.
Township of West Windsor
Township of West Windsor Public Works
Township of West Windsor Public Works 70 Southfield Road, West Windsor “Paper Shred Event”
70 Southfield Road, West Windsor “Paper Shred Event”
Township of West Windsor Public Works
70 Southfield Road, West Windsor “Paper Shred Event”
June 14, 2025 8AM – 12PM
June 14, 2025 8AM – 12PM
Township of West Windsor Public Works
Township of West Windsor Public Works Southfield Road, West Windsor
Township of West Windsor Public Works Southfield Road, West Windsor
70 Southfield Road, West Windsor “Paper Shred Event”
June 14, 2025 8AM – 12PM
Township of West Windsor Public Works 70 Southfield Road, West Windsor “Paper Shred Event”
70 Southfield Road, West Windsor
70 Southfield Road, West Windsor “Paper Shred Event”
Township of West Windsor Public Works 70 Southfield Road, West Windsor
Township of West Windsor Public Works
NOTE: May end prior to 12pm if shred trucks reach capacity Open to Residents ONLY – Proof of Residency Required
NOTE: May end prior to 12pm if shred trucks reach capacity Open to Residents ONLY – Proof of Residency Required
June 14, 2025 8AM – 12PM
Township of West Windsor Public Works 70 Southfield Road, West Windsor “Paper Shred Event” June 14, 2025 8AM – 12PM
NOTE: May end prior to 12pm if shred trucks reach capacity Open to Residents ONLY – Proof of Residency Required
“Paper Shred Event”
June 14, 2025 8AM – 12PM
“Paper Shred Event”
June 14, 2025 8AM – 12PM
NOTE: May end prior to 12pm if shred trucks reach capacity Open to Residents ONLY – Proof of Residency Required
June 14, 2025 8AM – 12PM
June 14, 2025 8AM – 12PM
June 8AM – 12PM –
June 8AM – 12PM –
Limit papers to confidential/sensitive materials only
NOTE: May end prior to 12pm if shred trucks reach capacity Open to Residents ONLY – Proof of Residency Required
NOTE: May end prior to 12pm if shred trucks reach capacity Open to Residents ONLY – Proof of Residency Required
Limit papers to confidential/sensitive materials only
NOTE: May end prior to 12pm if shred trucks reach capacity Open to Residents ONLY – Proof of Residency Required
Protect against identity theft – shred materials with your Social Security numbers, account numbers, confidential passwords, medical information, financial records and other confidential/sensitive personal documents.
Limit papers to confidential/sensitive materials only
Protect against identity theft – shred materials with your Social Security numbers, account numbers, confidential passwords, medical information, financial records and other confidential/sensitive personal documents.
NOTE: May end prior to 12pm if shred trucks reach capacity Open to Residents ONLY – Proof of Residency Required
NOTE: May end prior to 12pm if shred trucks reach capacity Open to Residents ONLY – Proof of Residency Required
Limit papers to confidential/sensitive materials only
Protect against identity theft – shred materials with your Social Security numbers, account numbers, confidential passwords, medical information, financial records and other confidential/sensitive personal documents.
Limit
Limit
papers to
confidential/sensitive materials
Limit papers to confidential/sensitive materials only
Limit papers to confidential/sensitive materials only
Limit papers to confidential/sensitive materials only
No need to remove paper clips, staples or rubber bands. Please remove heavy metal-backed binder clips/3 ring binders.
papers to confidential/sensitive materials only
Protect against identity theft – shred materials with your Social Security numbers, account numbers, confidential passwords, medical information, financial records and other confidential/sensitive personal documents.
Limit papers to confidential/sensitive materials only
No need to remove paper clips, staples or rubber bands. Please remove heavy metal-backed binder clips/3 ring binders.
Limit papers to confidential/sensitive materials only
Protect against identity theft – shred materials with your Social Security numbers, account numbers, confidential passwords, medical information, financial records and other confidential/sensitive personal documents.
Protect against identity theft – shred materials with your Social Security numbers, account numbers, confidential passwords, medical information, financial records and other confidential/sensitive personal documents.
Protect against identity theft – shred materials with your Social Security numbers, account numbers, confidential passwords, medical information, financial records and other confidential/sensitive personal documents.
Protect against identity theft shred materials with your Social Security numbers, account numbers, confidential passwords, medical information, financial records and other confidential/sensitive personal documents.
only account numbers, confidential passwords, personal documents.
No need to remove paper clips, staples or rubber bands. Please remove heavy metal-backed binder clips/3 ring binders.
Protect against identity theft – shred materials with your Social Security numbers, account numbers, confidential passwords, medical information, financial records and other confidential/sensitive personal documents.
Protect against identity theft – shred materials with your Social Security numbers, account numbers, confidential passwords, medical information, financial records and other confidential/sensitive personal documents.
NO magazines, hard/soft cover books, newspapers, junk mail, online catalogs, coupon circulars, travel guides; these items can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin. NO photos, x-rays, CD’s, VHS tapes or plastic credit cards.
No need to remove paper clips, staples or rubber bands. Please remove heavy metal-backed binder clips/3 ring binders.
NO magazines, hard/soft cover books, newspapers, junk mail, online catalogs, coupon circulars, travel guides; these items can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin. NO photos, x-rays, CD’s, VHS tapes or plastic credit cards.
NO magazines, hard/soft cover books, newspapers, junk mail, online catalogs, coupon circulars, travel guides; these items can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin NO photos, x-rays, CD’s, VHS tapes or plastic credit cards
No need to remove paper clips, staples or rubber bands. Please remove heavy metal-backed binder clips/3 ring binders. NO magazines, hard/soft cover books, newspapers, junk mail, online catalogs, coupon circulars, travel guides; these items can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin NO photos, x-rays, CD’s, VHS tapes or plastic credit cards
No need to remove paper clips, staples or rubber bands. Please remove heavy metal-backed binder clips/3 ring binders.
*LIMIT 8 boxes – 10lbs each* Please do not tape or seal boxes. Reusable containers are welcome & will be returned!
*LIMIT 8 boxes – 10lbs each* Please do not tape or seal boxes. Reusable containers are welcome & will be returned!
*LIMIT 8 boxes – 10lbs each* Please do not tape or seal boxes. Reusable containers are welcome & will be returned!
NO magazines, hard/soft cover books, newspapers, junk mail, online catalogs, coupon circulars, travel guides; these items can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin NO photos, x-rays, CD’s, VHS tapes or plastic credit cards
No need to remove paper clips, staples or rubber bands. Please remove heavy metal-backed binder clips/3 ring binders.
No need to remove paper clips, staples or rubber bands. Please remove heavy metal-backed binder clips/3 ring binders.
NO magazines, hard/soft cover books, newspapers, junk mail, online catalogs, coupon circulars, travel guides; these items can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin NO photos, x-rays, CD’s, VHS tapes or plastic credit cards
*LIMIT 8 boxes – 10lbs each* Please do not tape or seal boxes. Reusable containers are welcome & will be returned!
*LIMIT 8 boxes – 10lbs each* Please do not tape or seal boxes. Reusable containers are welcome & will be returned!
No need to remove paper clips, staples or rubber bands. Please remove heavy metal-backed binder clips/3 ring binders. NO magazines, hard/soft cover books, newspapers, junk mail, online catalogs, coupon circulars, travel guides; these items can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin. NO photos, x-rays, CD’s, VHS tapes or plastic credit cards.
NO magazines, hard/soft cover books, newspapers, junk mail, online catalogs, coupon circulars, travel guides; these items can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin NO photos, x-rays, CD’s, VHS tapes or plastic credit cards
No need to remove paper clips, staples rubber bands. Please remove heavy metal-backed binder clips/3 ring binders. magazines, hard/soft cover books, newspapers, junk mail, online catalogs, coupon circulars, travel guides; these items NO photos, x-rays, or plastic credit cards – do tape or seal boxes.
NO magazines, hard/soft cover books, newspapers, junk mail, online catalogs, coupon circulars, travel guides; these items can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin NO photos, x-rays, CD’s, VHS tapes or plastic credit cards
*LIMIT 8 boxes – 10lbs each* Please do not tape or seal boxes. Reusable containers are welcome & will be returned!
rubber bands. Please remove heavy magazines, hard/soft cover books, newspapers, junk mail, online catalogs, coupon circulars, travel guides; these photos, x-rays, or plastic credit cards. tape or seal boxes.
**ADDITION TO THIS EVENT**
*LIMIT 8 boxes – 10lbs each* Please do not tape or seal boxes. Reusable containers are welcome & will be returned!
**ADDITION TO THIS EVENT**
*LIMIT 8 boxes – 10lbs each* Please do not tape or seal boxes. Reusable containers are welcome & will be returned!
*LIMIT 8 boxes – 10lbs each* Please do not tape or seal boxes. Reusable containers are welcome & will be returned!
**ADDITION TO THIS EVENT**
FOOD DRIVE
FOOD DRIVE
FOOD DRIVE
FOOD DRIVE
TO THIS EVENT**
**ADDITION TO THIS EVENT**
FOOD DRIVE
Send Hunger Packing WW-P and The Little Free Pantry are local programs of Mercer Street Friends addressing food insecurity. Food donations are needed to support these important programs. Shelf stable items most in need: Cereals (individual bowl or small boxes), Oatmeal, Rice, Dried Beans, Canned/Microwavable Soup Bowls, Canned/Tuna to go (Starkist, Bumble Bee or vegetarian equivalent), packaged Dried Fruits, Chef Boyardee Microwave Bowls or vegetarian equivalent, Hormel Complete entrée or vegetarian equivalent. Grocery store cards are also welcomed. NO GLASS items please.
Send Hunger Packing WW-P and The Little Free Pantry are local programs of Mercer Street Friends addressing food insecurity. Food donations are needed to support these important programs. Shelf stable items most in need: Cereals (individual bowl or small boxes), Oatmeal, Rice, Dried Beans, Canned/Microwavable Soup Bowls, Canned/Tuna to go (Starkist, Bumble Bee or vegetarian equivalent), packaged Dried Fruits, Chef Boyardee Microwave Bowls or vegetarian equivalent, Hormel Complete entrée or vegetarian equivalent. Grocery store cards are also welcomed. NO GLASS items please.
Send Hunger Packing WW-P
FOOD DRIVE
Send Hunger Packing WW-P and The Little Free Pantry are local programs of Mercer Street Friends addressing food insecurity. Food donations are needed to support these important programs. Shelf stable items most in need: Cereals (individual bowl or small boxes), Oatmeal, Rice, Dried Beans, Canned/Microwavable Soup Bowls, Canned/Tuna to go (Starkist, Bumble Bee or vegetarian equivalent), packaged Dried Fruits, Chef Boyardee Microwave Bowls or vegetarian equivalent, Hormel Complete entrée or vegetarian equivalent. Grocery store cards are also welcomed. NO GLASS items please.
FOOD DRIVE
FOOD DRIVE
FOOD DRIVE
FOOD DRIVE
FOOD DRIVE
Send Hunger Packing WW-P and The Little Free Pantry are local programs of Mercer Street Friends addressing food insecurity. Food donations are needed to support these important programs. Shelf stable items most in need: Cereals (individual bowl or small boxes), Oatmeal, Rice, Dried Beans, Canned/Microwavable Soup Bowls, Canned/Tuna to go (Starkist, Bumble Bee or vegetarian equivalent), packaged Dried Fruits, Chef Boyardee Microwave Bowls or vegetarian equivalent, Hormel Complete entrée or vegetarian equivalent. Grocery store cards are also welcomed. items please.
Send Hunger Packing WW-P and The Little Free Pantry are local programs of Mercer Street Friends addressing food insecurity. Food donations are needed to support these important programs. Shelf stable items most in need: Cereals (individual bowl or small boxes), Oatmeal, Rice, Dried Beans, Canned/Microwavable Soup Bowls, Canned/Tuna to go (Starkist, Bumble Bee or vegetarian equivalent), packaged Dried Fruits, Chef Boyardee Microwave Bowls or vegetarian equivalent, Hormel Complete entrée or vegetarian equivalent. cards are also welcomed. items please.
Send Hunger Packing WW-P and The Little Free Pantry are local programs Mercer Street Friends addressing food insecurity. Food donations are needed to support these important programs. Shelf stable items most in need: Cereals (individual bowl or small boxes), Oatmeal, Rice, Dried Beans, Canned/Microwavable Microwave Bowls or vegetarian equivalent, Hormel Complete entrée or vegetarian equivalent. items please.
Send Hunger Packing WW-P and The Little Free Pantry are local programs of Mercer Street Friends addressing food insecurity. Food donations are needed to support these important programs. Shelf stable items most in need: Cereals (individual bowl or small boxes), Oatmeal, Rice, Dried Beans, Canned/Microwavable Soup Bowls, Tuna to go (Starkist, Bumble Bee or vegetarian equivalent), packaged Dried Fruits, Chef Boyardee Microwave Bowls or vegetarian equivalent, Hormel Complete entrée or vegetarian equivalent. cards are also welcomed. items please.
Send Hunger Packing WW-P and The Little Free Pantry are local programs of Mercer Street Friends addressing food insecurity. Food donations are needed to support these important programs. Shelf stable items most in need: Cereals (individual bowl or small boxes), Oatmeal, Rice, Dried Beans, Canned/Microwavable Soup Bowls, Tuna to go (Starkist, Bumble Bee or vegetarian equivalent), packaged Dried Fruits, Chef Boyardee Microwave Bowls or vegetarian equivalent, Hormel Complete entrée or vegetarian equivalent. cards are also welcomed. items please.
Send Hunger Packing The Little Free Pantry are local programs addressing food insecurity. needed to support these important programs. Shelf stable items most in need: Cereals (individual bowl or small boxes), Oatmeal, Rice, Dried Beans, Canned/Microwavable
Microwave Bowls or vegetarian equivalent, Hormel Complete entrée or vegetarian equivalent. items please.
local programs of Mercer Street Friends addressing food insecurity. Food donations are needed to support these important programs. tems most in need: Cereals (individual bowl or small boxes), Oatmeal, Rice, Dried Beans, Canned/Microwavable Soup Bowls, Tuna to go (Starkist, Bumble Bee or vegetarian equivalent), packaged Dried Fruits, Chef Boyardee Microwave Bowls or vegetarian equivalent, Hormel Complete entrée or vegetarian equivalent. cards are also welcomed. NO GLASS items please.
Send Hunger Packing WW-P and The Little Free Pantry local programs of Mercer Street Friends addressing food insecurity. Food donations are needed to support these important programs. tems most in need: Cereals (individual bowl or small boxes), Oatmeal, Rice, Dried Beans, Canned/Microwavable Soup Bowls, Tuna to go (Starkist, Bumble Bee or vegetarian equivalent), packaged Dried Fruits, Chef Boyardee Microwave Bowls or vegetarian equivalent, Hormel Complete entrée or vegetarian equivalent. cards are also welcomed. NO GLASS items please.
Final copy fitting tomorrow to leave room for ads
Travel Talk with Caryn and Aron On the horizon
This is a big year for new cruises and resorts to open. Here are a few and I asterisked those I already have trips planned to tour so in a future Travel Talk, I can provide my review.
Secrets Playa Esmeralda, Miches. Opening in the unspoiled Miches region, this adults-only resort redefines Dominican luxury. Enjoy stunning ocean views, gourmet dining, and a worldclass spa. Indulge in UnlimitedLuxury® with 24-hour room service and premium drinks.
Viking Vesta. Debuting July 2025, Viking’s newest ocean ship epitomizes elegant Scandinavian design and cultural enrichment. Offering destination-focused itineraries and all-veranda staterooms, Viking Vesta promises unforgettable voyages for curious travelers.
New AmaWaterways Ships. The luxury AmaSofia will be AmaWaterways’ 24th ship to sail Europe’s most popular Rhine and Danube Rivers beginning Summer 2026. The new AmaMaya* will begin sailing the Mekong River in August 2026 with 7-night itineraries.
Beaches Exuma. Beaches brings a slice of paradise to the Exumas in 2025. This family-friendly resort offers pristine beaches, worldclass dining,and endless activities. Stylish accommodations blend seamlessly with the natural beauty of the Bahamas, creating the perfect Caribbean getaway.
Carnival Celebration Key. Carnival’s new Bahamian paradise opens in 2025. An adults-only beach club, the largest freshwater lagoons in the Caribbean, and family-friendly areas make this private destination a must-see!
Celebrity Xcel. Launching November 2025, this Edge-Class ship elevates modern cruising. Soar over the open ocean at the Magic Carpet or watch Eden transform from chillful days to playful nights.
Brilliant Lady. Virgin Voyages’
fourth lady ship launches in 2025. Expect Michelin-inspired eateries, a festival-like lineup of entertainment and a Scarlet Night to remember, all with Virgin’s signature flair for the extraordinary.
Star of the Seas. Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon-class ship sets sail in August 2025. From dazzling shows atthe AquaDome to seven pools and dining options to wow your taste buds, Star of the Seaspromises an adventure of epic proportions.
Norwegian Luna. The newest Prima Plus-class ship sails 2026. Feel the rush of the Aqua Slidecoaster by day, indulge in a sunset swim at an infinity pool, then enjoy a moonlit stroll on Ocean Boulevard.
Seven Seas Grandeur.
Regent Seven Seas’ newest ship features all-suite accommodations, gourmet dining, andopulent spaces designed to perfection. Explore exotic destinations in unparalleled comfortaboard this pinnacle of seafaring elegance.
Now is the time to start planning your winter break getaway. And don’t forget to purchase travel insurance. Contact us today at 609-7500807 or cberla@cruiseplanners. com to discuss your travel plans. At Cruise Planners we are Luxury Travel Specialists. Visit us at www. makingvacationmemories.net to register for either our regular or for our Luxury newsletter to be delivered directly to your inbox and follow us at www.facebook.com/familycruising.
The history of slavery in West Windsor
PAUL LIGETI
WEST WINDSOR CHRONICLES
You may be surprised to learn that slavery existed in West Windsor. Until the 1860s, generations of local Black residents suffered under this institution. The following article, published by the all-volunteer community nonprofit Historical Society of West Windsor, explores local slavery during this period. Please note that research is still developing on this subject, so there may be significant gaps in our documentation. If you have additional resources to add to our historical knowledge, please email us: westwindsorhistory@gmail.com.
For more, visit: www.WestWindsorHistory.com/Slavery
Origins
Slavery in New Jersey is as old as its earliest colonial roots. In the early 1600s, Dutch colonists trafficked African captives to the province of New Netherland, centered on its capital, New Amsterdam (southern Manhattan). These captives were bound into “chattel slavery” – wherein they were considered property to be sold and used. Under this sys-
tem, children frequently inherited enslaved status from their parents.
The colonial government promoted slavery so much that New Amsterdam was at one point considered the most important “slave port” in North America where people were offloaded like cargo, sold on auction blocks, and often separated from their families forever. After the English annexed New Netherland in 1664, and renamed the territory “New Jersey,” slavery remained promoted for centuries.
Enslaved people often fought back against their captors, including via various several “slave revolts” over the generations. However, they were often brutally suppressed. Moreover, over the years, restrictions and oppression grew. One 1694 law forbade enslaved people from carrying guns, owning property, and lodging in homes without their enslavers’ consent.
The following year, procedures were established to prosecute and punish those accused of committing felonies or murder. Abuses could be horrendous - from being whipped to being dragged behind a cart to having limbs cut off to being hanged and more. Conditions only worsened with the passage of a 1704 “Slave Code” which pro-
hibited any sale of property by or to free and enslaved Black people and enforced a curfew as well.
Early Area Landowners
In the 1690s, powerful individuals like William Penn – famed Quaker and founder of Pennsylvania - began to acquire vast swaths of land in the West Windsor area, some thousands of acres each. Most of these people were enslavers, although most did not live here and were instead absentee land speculators. Penn himself kept 12 enslaved individuals on his estate in Pennsbury, north of Philadelphia. One of his contemporaries, David Lyell (who, like Penn, is memorialized in the naming of “Penn Lyle Road”) enslaved others as well – including a man named Tom, was executed after his involvement in the New York Slave Revolt of 1712.
Slavery in Windsor Twp.
Although a handful of colonists started moving here in the 1690s, it was not until the 1730s that settlement surged when various families—primarily of Dutch and English descent— established many of our town’s oldest communities, and immense farms stretching across the entire landscape.
Some of them saw slavery as a convenient source of labor in the “Garden State.” At the time, West Windsor Township did not exist; instead, we were part of a larger municipality called “Windsor Township” (formed in 1730/31 and dissolved in 1797).
Tax rolls from 1778 reveal 34 individuals were enslaved in town, and a census from the year 1790 shows a dramatic rise, to 190 (out of about 2,800 residents overall). Even some local soldiers who fought in the Revolutionary War - itself predicated on the concept of independence – promoted the institution. One such soldier, John B. Bergen (1739-1808), wrote into his will that upon his death, those enslaved under him would receive an awful “privilege:” that they “be allowed the privilege of choosing their own Masters at a reasonable price.”
Slavery in West Windsor
Windsor Township split into East Windsor and West Windsor in 1797. Still, slavery persisted, as shown in numerous newspaper ads, records of sale, manumission (freedom) documents, and more. Over time, slavery gradually dwindled in West Windsor. The 1830 census lists 21 enslaved individuals. By 1840, three were enslaved in town. And the
1860 census records one: a woman named Diana Updike. Her enslavers were the Fisher family, who owned a series of farms off Southfield Road, including the present-day Schenck Farmstead/West Windsor History Museum. The Historical Society is working on various initiatives to highlight her story and local slavery in general, including new interpretive signage to be installed later this year. Diana herself is also notable as being one of the last few dozen enslaved individuals in the state prior to ratification of the 13th Amendment.
Gradual Abolition
The road to freedom was long and hard-fought. In 1786, New Jersey passed legislation providing for regular manumission (freedom) of those between the ages of 21 and 35 on the condition that that they be brought before certain Township officials. It also forbade any freed Black person from another state from traveling to or remaining in New Jersey for an extended period and prohibited those who were freed within New Jersey from leaving the state without a certificate from several Township authorities.
However, this legislation was repealed in 1798, and manumission requirements made more restrictive. In 1804, the State Legislature passed an act requiring the registration of those born into slavery after July 4 of that year and declared them “free.” However, this law still bound these children as servants until they were in their twenties. Moreover, it did not account for those born before July 4, 1804.
For over the next four decades, a few other laws ostensibly addressed slavery but were toothless at best. In fact, slavery was so rampant throughout the state that by 1830, two-thirds of enslaved people still living in the North were reputedly held by slaveowners in the state. Also during the early to mid1800s, tens of thousands escaped the southern states to free-
dom via the “Underground Railroad,” which likely passed through the West Windsor area.
In 1846, New Jersey formally abolished slavery, but with glaring loopholes, including that those born after the 1804 Act were simply reclassified as “apprenticed for life.” As previously mentioned, this was evidenced in the fact that, in West Windsor, Diana Updike remained listed as a “slave servant” in the 1860s, as did Sarah Cox, who died enslaved in West Windsor in 1862 at 93 years old.
It was not until New Jersey ratified the 13th Amendment in January 1866 (the last northern state to do so), that slavery was formally abolished in the state, and disappeared from West Windsor. Even then, some continued to work on local farms as paid laborers.
The struggle for freedom from slavery was long and hard-fought and slavery’s repercussions are felt to this day. Let us not forget that even in West Windsor, which so often and so publicly celebrates its diversity, there is a long and dark underbelly to our communal history that also deserves recognition.
To learn more about this history, visit: WestWindsorHistory.com/Slavery.
The Historical Society is an all-volunteer nonprofit; all our volunteers donate their free time to document and promote our Township’s history. There is a lot to preserve and document, but we can’t do it without your support. Please consider volunteering and/or donating to help us grow and expand our impact. To learn more, visit: westwindsorhistory. com.
Paul Ligeti is the president of the Historical Society of West Windsor.
Friday, June 27 through Sunday, July 6, 2024
Monday – Friday 5 PM – 11 PM
Saturday/Sunday/July 4 th 3 PM – 11 PM
Tickets on sale noW!
Mercer county Park We S t Wind S or to W n S hi P, n J
diSCountEd PrE-SalE MEGa PaSSES aVailaBlE onlinE at WWW.thElEadFESt.CoM until 4 PM Friday, JunE 27th
FREE LIVE MUSIC NIGHTLY
6/27 Erni E Whit E Band @ 7pm
6/28 Co SM i C J E rry @ 3pm | South E rn St EE l @ 7pm
6/29 M o B @ 3pm | Kindr E d S P irit @ 7pm
6/30 daVE Bray u S a @ 7pm
7/1 lo VE li G ht @ 7pm
7/2 Shorty lon G and th E J E r SE y h orn S @ 7pm
7/3 liVErPool lEGEndS BEatlES ExPEriEnCE @ 7:30pm
7/4 Pur E P E tty Band @6pm
7/5 t yl E r and Brittany @ 3pm | VEGaS MCGraW @ 7pm
7/6 Sid EWayS Willy @ 3pm
S E n S ational Soul Crui SE r S @ 7pm Cow Town | DoCk Dogs | Carnival
ticketS on S ale noW at:
C HEC k o UT o UR NaTI o N a LLY aCCL a IME d M USIC a L aCTS (in appearance order) dave Bray USa Shorty Long and the Jersey Horns Liverpool Legends Beatles Experience Vegas McGraw Sensational Soul Cruisers
JUNE 27, 30 aNd JUly 4
CLassiFieD
Booking a classified ad has never been easier! Simply scan the QR code or visit www.communitynews.org/place_an_ad. Questions? Call us at 609-396-1511 ext. 132. communitynews community news
VACATION RENTAL
Fort Myers Beach, Fl. Dates are still available 1 br condo on beach. Call for details @ 609-577-8244.
Scan the QR code above to create your Community News classified ad in just minutes.
HELP WANTED
Notice: Weatherization Contractors The Bucks County Opportunity Council’s Weatherization department is soliciting qualified contractors to provide labor and materials for its Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)The Opportunity Council is a private 501 © (3) corporation headquartered at 100 Doyle Street, Doylestown, PA 18901. BCOC will host an applicant zoom meeting for prospective contractors interested in WAP work in Bucks county. Advanced registration is required. Please email inquiries to obeuerle@ bcoc.org to register. Application packets which include a detailed program description will be emailed to registered contractors prior to the meeting. Qualified Weatherization contractors are those who meet PA department of labor & industry requirements and have employees with certification from a WAP training center, as either a HEP retrofit installer or HEP crew chief, and/or hold a current BPI certification. All work must meet standards set forth by the United States Department of Energy (DOE) and the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).
QA CHEMIST Pharmaceutical manufacturing company (Ewing, NJ) seeks QA Chemist to perform routine and non-routine chemical analyses of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products. Ensure compliance with internal quality standards and external
Advertise for $69 a month. For more information call 609-396-1511
We Buy Old Books, Rare Books Also Buying Antiques, Collectibles, Jewelry, Old Postcards, Sports Cards, Pottery, Prints, Paintings, Old Toys, Coins, Stamps, Etc. Appraisals Available. Downsizing/Moving? Call Us!
Larry Feldman (609)658-5213
LarryFeldman51@gmail.com
regulatory requirements. Assist in the creation and review of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and other quality documentation. Maintain accurate and detailed records of test results, procedures, and analysis, ensuring all documentation complies with quality standards. Monitor quality control processes to ensure consistency and reliability of production. Offered salary: $108930.00. Mail resume to: HR Dept., Navinta LLC, 1499 Lower Ferry Rd., Ewing, NJ 08618.
Work From Home THE QUESTION? Would you be interested in learning how You and Your Family can use Our Project $5000 System to legitimately generate $5000 or More per Month in as little as 4-8 weeks? Without recruiting, selling or explaining anything to anyone. If YES! Text The Word “YES” to 1-640202-0791. SERVICES
SERVICES
F,D, Mason Contractor, Over 30 years of experience. Brick, Block, Stone, Concrete. No job too large or small. Fully Insured and Licensed. Free Estimates 908-385-5701 Lic#13VH05475900.
Are you single? Try us first! We are an enjoyable alternative to online dating. Sweet Beginnings Matchmaker, 215-539-2894, www. sweetbeginnings.info.
LEGAL SERVICES Wills, Power of Attorney, Real Estate, Federal and NJ Taxes, Education Law. House calls available. Bruce Cooke, Esq. 609799-4674, 609-721-4358.
Guitar, Ukulele and Drum lessons for all. Call Jane 609 510-1400. $25.00 per lesson.
Emergency child care Emergency child care – need a date? At a loss for child care sometimes? Need a few hours to yourself? Hello, I’m Eileen. I taught preschool for 39 years as well as being a clown. Ages 2 1/2 -6 years. 609-477-4268.
Senior Concierge. Here to assist you. In the home or on the road. Part-time/Day or evening. Holidays and weekends no problem. Very good references. Call Mary Ann, 609-298-4456 Text: 609-676-4530. Taking appointments again starting May 1st.
Emergency child care – need a date? At a loss for child care sometimes? Need a few hours to yourself? Hello, I’m Eileen. Teaching preschool for years 39 and I was a clown. Ages 2 1/2 -6 years. 609-477-4268.
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
I Buy Guitars All Musical Instruments in Any Condition: Call Rob at 609-577-3337.
WANTED TO BUY
Wanted: Baseball, football, basketball, hockey. Cards, autographs, photos, memorabilia. Highest cash prices paid! Licensed corporation, will travel. 4theloveofcards, 908-596-0976. allstar115@ verizon.net.
Cash paid for World War II Military Items. Helmets, swords, medals, etc. Call: 609-6582996, E-mail: lenny1944x@gmail.com
Cash paid for SELMER SAXOPHONES and other vintage models.609-658-2996 or e-mail lenny1944x@gmail.com
HAPPY HEROES used books looking to buy old Mysteries, Science Fiction, kids series books ( old Hardy boys-Nancy Drew-etc WITH DUSTJACKETS in good shape), Dell Mapbacks - PULP magazines , old role playing stuff, good conditioned pre 1975 paperbacks old COLLIER’S magazine. Call 609-619-3480 or email happyheroes@gmail.com .
Larry Feldman (609) 658-5213
