Readington News - February 2023

Reading ton News

A Community Newspaper Serving All of Readington Township, NJ

Readington Township Accepts Donation of Historic Darts Mill Parcel

By Mayor Juergen Huelsebusch Chair, Readington Township Open Space Advisory Board

Readington Township has accepted a donation of a 1.5 acre Darts Mill parcel, which encompasses the 1800 Mill House, the mill foundation site and a 350’ portion of the South Branch of the Raritan River. The parcel site is just east of the current CR523 bridge between Raritan and Readington townships and will be assessed in early 2023 for Township, County, and State historical and preservation value.

Several environmental partners, including Raritan Headwaters, Hunterdon Land Trust and the New Jersey Conservation Foundation will be engaged in advising and assisting Readington Township with future site planning and grant acquisition projects.

This strategic parcel will, over time, contribute to stream restoration as well as the ongoing and overall protection of the South Branch of the Raritan. The stream portion of the site has debris from both an old dam and road, which negatively impacts the surrounding water. Future efforts to restore this site are expected to benefit the entire South Branch watershed. Readington’s Open Space Advisory Board, Readington Water Watch and Hunterdon County have all made preservation of the South Branch of the Raritan a priority and are working to protect more land in Hunterdon County

along this stream while continuing to improve water quality.

This preservation project was the result of a five-year effort and discussions with a longtime owner of the parcel, who has donated the parcel to the township. This furthers the goal of protecting this strategic Hunterdon County greenway corridor. The intention is to preserve these parcels in their natural state for wildlife and watershed protection.

One proposed project under consideration is the restoration of the portion of the South Branch at this site to remove a remnant dam. This will improve the stream channel, water flow, lower water temperature, and improve trout habitat, as well as reduce future flooding. Residents interested in volunteering to help with this project should contact the Readington Waterwatch committee.

Readington Community Theatre to Present “Guys and Dolls”

Readington Community Theatre will present the Broadway musical “Guys and Dolls” at the Three Bridges Banquet Hall at 7 p.m. on Feb. 10, 11, 17 & 18, and matinee performances at 2 p.m. on Feb. 12 & 19. Pre-show dinner and lunch offerings will be available at the nearby Three Bridges Cafe.

The show will feature a talented cast of singer/performers and a live orchestra conducted by Hunterdon Central Regional High School Orchestra Director Will Magalio. The musical score includes well-known hit songs like “Luck Be A Lady” and “Sit Down You’re Rockin’ the Boat.”

Tickets are expected to sell out. Order yours now, online at rctnj.org or by calling 908-271-8741. - Submitted by Rob Nonni for Readington Community Theatre

Pictured (center) is the South Branch of the Raritan River with Darts Mill at bottom center. The photo was taken by JJ Mish, nature writer/photographer during a flyover compliments of LightHawk and No Water No Life.

Editors/Publishers:

Monita Casey Haduch, Bill Haduch

Advertising Manager: Karen C. Muller

Contributors: Lisa O’Donoghue & Susan Torsilieri

Mailing Services: Mike Sanchez

Art: Jacki Hasko, Megan Clewell

Layout Services: Steve Skladany

The Readington News is mailed monthly, free-of-charge to every mailing address in Readington Township. Free copies are also available for distribution in places of business, schools, and municipal offices.

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March 2023

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Email: readingtonnews@gmail.com

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Upcoming Events

Diamonds and Dice Feb. 11

The Woman’s Club of Tewksbury Township (WCTT) will host the Diamonds and Dice charity casino fundraiser at 6:30 p.m. at the Beaver Brook Country Club, featuring casino tables, silent auction, DJ, food and beverages. Tickets can be purchased online at www. tewksburywomansclub.com or by contacting Andrea Stein at contactus@tewksburywomansclub. com. For more information about the WCTT and the Diamonds and Dice event, visit www.tewksburywomansclub.com or follow the WCTT on Facebook.

Open Space Hike Feb. 19

Shake the February doldrums with a brisk Sunday afternoon hike in the fields and woodlands of the township’s expansive and varied Cole Road Greenway. Explore trails on the east side of the preserve, walking for approximately two hours on level and some hilly terrain. Meet at 1 p.m. in the gravel parking area on the east side of Cole Road. If coming north on Cole Road, this lot is the second parking lot, 7/10 mile from Pleasant Run Rd (Rte. 629), on the right side. Coming south on Cole the lot is 3/10 mi. past the intersection of Pine Bank Road, on the left. If using GPS, the lot is across from 111 Cole Rd. To sign up, or for questions, email trails@ readingtontwp-nj.org, or leave a message at 908-782-6452.

Designer Bag Bingo March 10

The Hunterdon Central Dance Team presents its annual Designer Bag Bingo fundraiser at Hunterdon Central Regional High School (84 NJ-31, Flemington). Bring your friends to play bingo with the chance to win designer handbags from Tory Burch, Kate Spade and more. There will be door prizes, 50/50 raffle, basket raffle and special raffle for a Louis Vuitton bag. All proceeds benefit the Hunterdon Central Dance Team. Tickets available at: https://tinyurl.com/46jj3adv. For questions, contact: HCDTBingo@gmail.com.

Chili Cook-Off Feb. 26 Support

American Legion Post 284’s Ladies Auxiliary will host a Chili Cook-Off on Sunday, Feb. 26, at 1 p.m. at American Legion Post 284, 1 Ridge Rd. in Whitehouse Station.

Bring the family and vote for your favorite chili. The cost is $5 to participate and serve your best chili or $5 to attend and test the chili. Salad bar is $5 and chili toppings are free. The event will feature a 50/50 raffle, bake sale, basket raffle, and cash bar.

Each chili entry must be labeled “meat” or “vegetarian” and only one entry is permitted per person, group or restaurant. All ingredients must be precooked before the event. Chili is to be brought hot and ready to eat in a slow cooker. Contestants are responsible for supplying their own serving utensils and serving their chili during the event. Tables, chairs, bowls, cups and spoons for use in serving the chili will be provided by the auxiliary.

To participate or for more information email: post284ladiesaux@ gmail.com.

- Submitted by Sue Messina, American Legion Ladies Auxiliary Post 284 Whitehouse, Vice President

Happy 100th Birthday!

Helen Van Doren celebrated her 100th birthday on Dec. 29 with a gathering of family and friends.

Born in Bunnvale, NJ, she has lived in the North Branch section of Branchburg for over 66 years. Her husband of 54 years, Ben Van Doren, passed away in 2010.

Over the years she enjoyed volunteering at Somerset Medical Center and working at Reynolds at the Somerville Circle shopping center. She played tennis with a group of friends weekly for numerous years and is a longtime member of the North Branch Reformed Church.

Helen has three children, Elaine Schappell (Gerald) of Lenhartsville, PA; Bill Gulick (Betty) of Hampton, NJ; and Vanessa Van Doren of North Branch. She has five grandchildren - Kelly Gulick, Brent Gulick, Casey Cameron, Rebecca Burns and Stephanie Santos, and five great granchildren - Kyle Apgar, Brendan Gulick, Avery Burns, Weston Burns and Penelope Santos. Helen also has three stepsons - Bud Van Doren, Jack Van Doren, Richard Van Doren along with 12 stepgrandchildren and 26 great grandchildren!

Hunterdon Walking and Social Club Reorganizes

The Hunterdon Walking and Social Club, a singles club for the 55-plus age group, is planning Sunday afternoon walks and gatherings at local restaurants for the new year. The organization is 28 years old this year. Visit www.angelfire.com/trek/hwsc for further info and look for a listing of events in the next issue of The Readington News.

Whitehouse Veterinary Hospital

Readington Social Services Thanks Residents for Generosity

By Christine Dey and Scott Crabtree, Readington Township Social Services

Readington Township Social Services thanks everyone who participated in the Holiday Adopt a Family Program. Each year we are amazed and so grateful for your overwhelming response and generosity. You made the holiday season very special for 187 individuals.

Recipients received thoughtful gifts that balanced their needs and

their special wishes such as clothing, food, coats, toys, gift cards and Christmas trees.

Your kindness impacted our clients and helped renew our energy during these trying times. Inflation greatly increased the demands on this office, and we would not have been able to meet those needs without the community’s continued support.

Helen Van Doren

By Dr. Camille Cerciello

Readington Township School District Sets Budget Planning Dates

Readington Twp. Board of Education Finance Committee Chair

The Board of Education is tasked with managing the budget of the district with the guidance of our Superintendent, Dr. Jonathan Hart, and our Business Administrator, Jason Bohm. The first few months of the new year is when budgeting, planning and preparing occurs.

The creation and implementation of a strong, responsible budget allows the district to maintain the many programs our students have become accustomed to. The district is also able to maintain the buildings and grounds in the manner in which our constituents have come to expect.

The 2022-2023 budget, which is currently being utilized, has helped the district to meet the goals that are set annually. With this year’s budget, the district was able to hire two additional full-time grade-level teachers, an additional part-time physical education teacher, expand the part-time music teacher to full time, and reallocate staff internally to create a new preschool teacher position. With the assistance of federal grant programs, the district was able to provide additional in-

Learning About The Human Brain

tervention services for pandemic learning loss and mental health services. This year’s budget also allowed for enhancements to outdoor classroom space at all schools and a new stage sound system at Holland Brook School.

Further, the district was able to replace the final section of the roof of Holland Brook School, repair the cupola at Three Bridges School and renovate the Curriculum Department office.

Tentative open public sessions and budget topics for the 2023-2024 school year are as follows: (Please note these dates can change and public notices will be posted in advance with start times. See the district website www.readington.k12. nj.us for updates.)

Feb. 7: Curriculum/Staff Development, Pupil Services and Technology

Feb. 21: Facilities, Transportation, Administration, Personnel and Benefits

March 14: Presentation on the whole budget to the public with tentative approval

April 4: Budget clarification and updates, if needed.

April 25: Budget hearing and final adoption of budget

During the planning of the 20232024 school year budget, there will be some challenges facing our district which include, as of the writing of this article, staff and program modifications due to an increased enrollment from new housing developments, facility upgrades to ensure both students and staff remain safe and healthy, along with increases in staff salaries, inflation and health insurance premiums. In addition, the district continues to be committed to providing our students with a comprehensive and rigorous program of studies, with a full complement of athletic and extra-curricular offerings.

All input and concerns about the budget can be heard during the Feb. 7 and Feb. 21 board meetings as well as the other dates listed. Public input helps the Board of Education to create a fiscally responsible budget while keeping all of the members of the community apprised of the current needs of the district. Please consider attending one or all of the dates.

As always, should you have questions, please email boardmembers@readington.k12.nj.us.

By Dr. Joyce Gibbons Holland Brook School Gifted and Talented Teacher

Students in Holland Brook School’s 5th grade Gifted and Talented class have been learning all about the human brain. They have enjoyed learning about their nervous system, how nerves work, how their memory works, and how they can use different tricks to improve their ability to learn. They recently enjoyed a visit from neurophysiologist

Chuck Erd who helped them to see how some of what they have learned can be applied in different careers. After everyone prepared for “surgery” with PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) commonly used in the operating theatre, Mr. Erd brought neuroanatomy to life through hands-on experiences. Students explored the brain using a take-apart model, investigated the anatomy of the spinal column, and utilized software used in the field to monitor electrical signals within nerves in real-time.

Pictured from left (back row) are Chuck Erd, Embree Campi, and Eva Maher (front row) Abigail Fischl, Angel Casiano, Sarah Erd, Samantha DiStefano, Victoria Annese, and Emma Dilger.

Holland Brook School Students Earn Top Honors at Noetic Math Competition

Students at Holland Brook School recently had the opportunity to take part in the Noetic (intellectual) Math Competition. This national competition allows students to apply their math skills to non-standard problems. Holland Brook math students performed incredibly well with four 4th-grade students, Henry Schwartz, Thomas Ambio, Jayden Chen, and Jason Roscher, all earning places on the National Honor Roll. The 4th-grade team winner, Jayden Chen, not only earned a place on the National Honor Roll but tied for the highest score among 4th-grade students in the entire state.

Preschool Programs

Catering for all your special events!

How do you know if you need a specialist’s care?

If you have multiple teeth that need to be restored, and/or replaced in one or both arches, I can provide an evaluation of the complexity of your case (not for single crowns or fillings)

Bring any dental records you have and we can talk!

Christian Based Programs

Climbing Cushetunk Mountain – “First Day Hikes” have become a New Year’s tradition, and in Readington Township, a brisk hike up our very own Cushetunk Mountain was a great way to start off the new year. Jan. 1 was cold and a bit windy, but that did not deter the group of 20 residents who gathered at Pickell Park in Whitehouse Station to start the two-hour hike. Their reward, in addition to burning calories, was the awesome view from the top of Round Valley Reservoir. - Submitted by Julia Allen

By Carol Radziewicz, Readington Township Board of Health

Homeowners are responsible for maintaining their own individual septic systems. How can you reduce the chance of expensive repairs? Follow the guidelines below:

Have your septic pumped and inspected every three years. Pumping extends the life and efficiency of the system and is recommended at 3-year intervals for most systems.

Know where your septic is located. Plot plans of installed septic systems may be available for your lot at the Hunterdon County Health Department. Pumping removes solids before they build up, escape and damage the field. Installation of a concrete riser or permanent marker on the tank may make future pumping and maintenance easier. Reduce water usage. Fix leaky faucets and toilets. Install low-flow fixtures. Limit cleaning agents and detergents. Excessive use can be harmful to the system. Space your water usage. Allow your system to rest between uses.

Never dispose of toxic or hazardous chemicals through your septic system.

Limit paper products. Never add a garbage disposal to an existing septic system. Avoid using septic additives. Know the warning signs of a malfunction: visible effluent, ponding or odors (aside from a roof vent.)

Roof drains and sump pumps should not be introduced into the septic system.

Keep large trees from growing near the disposal areas. Don’t drive cars or move heavy equipment over the disposal area.

For more detailed information, a free guide, “Well and Septic System Care in Hunterdon County,” is available at the Board of Health Office at Readington Township Municipal Building, or from the Hunterdon County Health Department, or online at http://www.co.hunterdon.nj.us/ pdf/health/Well_and_Septic.pdf.

Township of Readington

News from the Municipal Building

Township Committee Liaisons

In addition to attending two regularly scheduled Township Committee meetings per month, each Committee member serves as a liaison to several other departments, boards, committees and commissions. In the role of liaison, the Committee members are to attend meetings of these groups and departments to learn of plans, keep abreast of activities, and bring concerns back to the full Committee for consideration, and to keep them informed.

This year’s assignments are:

John Albanese: Affordable Housing, Recreation, Social Services

Jonathan Heller: Finance, Sewer Advisory, Environmental Commission, Emergency Services, Fire Official

Juergen Huelsebusch: Police Department, Traffic Safety, Farmland/Open Space Advisory Board, Agricultural Land Advisory Committee

Adam Mueller: Engineering/Roads/Buildings & Grounds/Recycling, Construction/ Code Enforcement, Municipal Court

Vincent Panico: Historic Preservation, Museums, Zoning, Library Services, Board of Health

Entire Township Committee : Administrator, Municipal Clerk, Board of Adjustment

Municipal Offices will be CLOSED

Mon., Feb. 13 / Lincoln’s Birthday

Mon., Feb. 20 / Presidents ’ Day

Township Committee Welcomes New Member, Swears in Mayor & Deputy Mayor

Vincent Panico was sworn in as the newest Township Committee member at the January 3rd Township Committee Reorganization meeting. Panico was elected to the position in the November 2022 election.

Juergen Huel sebusch was sworn in as Mayor for 2023 by unanimous vote of the Township Committee. In addition, Adam Mueller was sworn in as Deputy Mayor.

A portion of Mayor Huelsebusch’s remarks at the reorg:

As a Township Committee, we plan to focus additional planning and resources on addressing State and Court mandates such as Affordable Housing. It is our intent to minimize the impact of over development on our semi -rural environment.

We will continue to actively preserve farms. We have two (2) properties pending with SADC (State Agricultural Development Committee) and intend to target additional farms and willing landowners with potential preservation programs. We will actively preserve open space in our priority areas; watersheds, forested areas, and wherever we can expand trail corridors.

Stewardship will be a continued priority. We are organizing a stewardship program for 2023 to continue protection and enhancement of the forest, meadows and watershed we manage.

We will continue to promote traffic safety and education and engage residents from all parts of Readington.

In an effort to improve communication, we will continue to encourage in -person meetings and video capabilities to make our departments and committees more productive. Social media options will be reviewed and explored.

With our Advisory Committees we are working to identify goals and to share ideas and intentions across committees to foster more cooperation to further benefit everyone.

sibilities and raising a family, found the time to be totally committed to each of his volunteer endeavors. She said that, over the years, any time she had a question about something, someone would say, "Ask Ron. He's been working on that."

who recently retired was honored at the January 3, 2023 Township

The Committee unanimously passed a resolution thanking Ron for his over 45 years of Committee, five of those as Mayor, 37 years on the Planning Board, as well as a memLebanon Sewer Authority, the Sewer Adviworking farms, quaint historic villages and pristine natural resources and preventing urban sprawl from swallowing up Readington.

Over the years, Ron worked with former Township Committee members Stephanie Stevens, the Hon. Gerry Shamey, Julia Allen, Frank Gatti, Tom Auriemma, Liz Duffy, Ben Smith, and Betty Ann Fort, as well as others, including Jerry Cook, Christina Albrecht, and Jacqueline Hindle.

Cheryl Filler marveled that Ron, while holding down a full -time job with large respon-

Jerry Cook spoke of having resolved not to get involved in politics when he moved to Readington, and how Ron lured him in and he has been involved ever since.

Jacqueline Hindle told Ron how much she had learned from him in her two years on the Planning Board.

Julia Allen spoke of how, shortly after Ron moved here, there was talk of a giant shopping mall being built in the middle of Whitehouse Station, and how Ron had called her up in alarm, asking what could be done to stop this, as this was exactly what he had moved away from. And today, there is no giant shopping mall in town.

Betty Ann Fort commented that Ron must have moved here shortly after Readington was founded in 1730, since it seemed impossible that Ron could have accomplished all he had in the time he said he lived here. Both Fort and Christina Albrecht spoke of Ron's calm, quiet and gentle wisdom and his ability to respect and get along with everyone.

The Resolution that was passed concluded with the declaration that Tuesday, January 3, 2023 would be known as Ron Monaco Day in Readington. The complete resolution is posted on the Township's webpage.

What They Went For

What did George Washington say to his men before they crossed the Delaware?

“Get in the boat, men.”

What do you call a tiny, tiny Valentine card?

A valen-teeny.

What do you say to an eight-armed octopus on Valentine’s Day?

Mr. Green

green house, Mr. Blue lives in a blue house, Mr. Purple lives in a purple house. Who

President!

I wanna hold your hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand!

What did one bee say to the other?

I love bee-ing with you, honey!

Caregivers Wanted! Comfort Keepers of Flemington is seeking kind, caring, reliable and compassionate caregivers. Flexible Hours. Full-Time, Part Time, Weekends and Overnights. Top Pay! For more information call: 908-806-3768.

SELLING YOUR HOME? Call for complimentary market analysis. I also buy homes. George Pantozzi, Broker/Associate, Berkshire Hathaway NJ Properties, 908-392-2677

RITTER BROTHERS PAINTING, Readington, NJ. Interior & Exterior. Lic#13VH10329300. Business: 908-233-8904, Home: 908-534-9390.

FD MASON CONTRACTOR - Over 30 years of experience. Brick, block, stone, concrete. No job too large or small. Fully insured & licensed. Free estimates. 908-385-5701. Lic# 13VH05475900.

Window Screen Repairs - Good quality Fiberglass screens for your windows and patio doors. Pick-up and delivery available. George & Son’s 908-392-2677.

WINNEWALD DAY CAMP -

Summer 2023 - June 26-Aug.

11. Leadership openings, Arts & Crafts, Program Director, Nature, Music, Group Counselors. PartTime Maintenance, Flexible Hours Email letter of interest to Winneday@ptd.net.

ROOMMATE WANTED - To share 4-bedroom house. Private room and bath. Full run of the house. $750.00 per month. Reduce rent if willing to clean. Annandale, NJ. 908-625-7980. Text/call. Pets welcome.