Readington News - April 2023

Nothing to See Here. . . The Readington Township Committee voted 3-2 on March 6 to stop running the Municipal Page in The Readington News and instead contract with John J. Cahill, Point Consulting LLC, to communicate with residents via social media. The decision was enacted immediately, so there is no Municipal Page in this edition. The vote was Vincent Panico, Mayor Juergen Huelsebusch and Adam Mueller for dropping the newspaper page in favor of Facebook and Jonathan Heller and John Albanese for

Readington Fencer Wins Gold

Hailey Eyer of Readington

Township won the gold medal in Cadet Women’s Foil on March 3, the first day of the 2023 Parafencing National Championships and March North American Cup, held in Fort Worth, TX.

The victory marked back-toback wins at USA Fencing national tournaments for Eyer. At the 2023 Junior Olympics in February, she emerged atop a field of 198 to grab the gold medal and national title. Just 11 days later, she won it all again.

She won the under 17 (U17) women’s fencing Junior Olympics for foil in Denver, CO, on Feb. 20. The Hunterdon Central Regional High School sophomore earned her gold with her coach, Darren Manchen, at her side.

Reading ton News

A Community Newspaper Serving All of Readington Township, NJ

Readington Township Eliminates Hometown News Page in Favor of Facebook

continuing the newspaper page.

The Township Committee started running the Municipal Page in 2019, leveraging the fact that the newspaper is mailed monthly to every resident of the township. Township employee Meg Slutter collected news from various township departments and created a colorful full-page display. This newspaper received $10,450 per year for the space and mailing service. Cahill will receive $16,800 for a “central Readington Township Facebook page.”

Baseball Opening Day April 22

By Erin Rocchietti, RTJBL

The

ministrator, in an email March 16, wrote: “Unfortunately, the Township Committee decided to eliminate the monthly page in The Readington News effective immediately. I hope this doesn’t place too much of a financial impact on your operation.”

The Reading ton News

Richard Sheola, Township Ad-

The revenue from the Muncipal Page has helped The Readington News continue to publish through the Covid-19 shutdown and afterwards. The publisher is exploring ways to replace the loss. Reader input is welcome at readingtonnews@gmail.com.

The spring baseball season has started up for kids ages 4-18 in Readington and Tewksbury. After a less-than-fierce winter, our teams are ready to get out in the field to play. This year the Readington Tewksbury Junior Baseball League (RTJBL) is posting a total of 32 teams with about 300 players. The youngest among them will get things started with field parades and a ceremony on Opening Day on Saturday, April 22. The season lasts through the spring and wraps up with Family Fun Day on June 10.

A Community Newspaper Serving All of Readington Township, NJ

RTJBL is hiring snack-stand and field workers for the spring season. More information is available at rtjbl.com or by emailing rtjblinfo@gmail.com.

If you are interested in advertising opportunities, fill out the form on the website or contact

RTJBLSponsorship@gmail.com with any questions. RTJBL does not receive any funding from either Tewksbury or Readington townships and is run entirely by volunteers beginning with the members of the Executive Board and including the parents and families of our players. RTJBL is very fortunate to receive sponsorship from our wonderful local businesses and we encourage our players and fans to support them. For a full list of sponsors, visit rtjbl.com.

Hailey began fencing at 9 years old at Manchen Academy of Fencing in Whitehouse Station. She has achieved many significant milestones this past year, including the World Cup, where she earned second place with Team USA in Poznan, Poland, and placed eighth in individuals for the under 17 (U17) bracket

Fencer Hailey Eyer and Coach Darren Manchen in both Poland and Nuremberg, Germany. She is currently ranked seventh in the country for U17 Women’s Foil, 19th for the under 20 bracket as well as 28th for overall team selection. Hailey’s success began with her 2022 win for NJ High School state individual foil champion.

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.

DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE

May 2023

April 15 for Ads and News

The Readington News is not liable for failure to publish an ad, for typographical errors, or errors in publication, unless, in our judgment, the error materially affects the content and advertising value of the ad. Compensation will not exceed the cost of the space in which an error occurs.

The Readington News has the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason, and is not responsible for claims made by advertisers. We ask our readers to keep us informed of any misleading advertisements.

Phone: Editorial 908-285-2847

Advertising 908-256-0352

Email: readingtonnews@gmail.com

Mailing address: P.O. Box 5351, Branchburg, NJ 08876 Web: www.readingtonnews.com

A Creative Resources/ Town Media Newspaper Publishers: Bill Haduch, Monita Casey Haduch

©2023 Creative Resources/ Town Media, All Rights Reserved

Upcoming Events

Ziti Dinner April 1

A three-course home-baked ziti dinner will be held at the Bethlehem Presbyterian Church, 2 Race St., Pittstown, from 5 to 7 p.m. The cost is a free will donation. No reservations.

Easter Sunday Service April 9

An ecumenical Easter Sunrise Service will be held at 6:30 a.m. at Readington Reformed Church, 124 Readington Rd. The gathering place will be at the top of the hill of the church’s cemetery. Bring lawn chairs. For more than 30 years, music has been provided by Mr. Ed and the Revs. All are invited to a potluck breakfast after the service in the Library of the church at 7 a.m. Please bring an item to share. Participating Hunterdon County churches include: Church of the Holy Spirit, Cokesbury Methodist, Fairmount Methodist, Lebanon Reformed, Our Lady of Lourdes of Whitehouse Station, Readington Reformed, Rockaway Reformed, Stanton Reformed, Whitehouse United Methodist and Zion Lutheran. For information, call 908-534-4351.

In the of Hunterdon County

Sunday Afternoon

April 16

Call 908-256-0352

Winnewald Day Camp

an exciting and safe environment for campers 5-13

NOW ACCEPTING CAMPER REGISTRATIONS & COUNSELOR APPLICATIONS for its 72nd season!

June 26 - August 11

OPEN HOUSES 1-4 PM

APRIL 18, MAY 21

Interested counselors may also attend!

Winnewald@gmail.com

(908) 735-8336

www.winnewald.com

21 Cratetown Road, Lebanon, NJ 08833

Hike

Experience the emergence of spring along the trails on Round Mountain. Meet at 1 p.m. at Dobozynski Farm Park, at the red barns, 42 Woodschurch Rd. The walk will be two to three miles for a couple of hours over hilly fields and woodlands – a nice hike for the whole family. Your pooch on a leash is welcome to join. To sign up, or for questions, email trails@ readingtontwp-nj.org or leave a message at 908-782-6452.

Quilting Guild April 21

The Hunterdon County Quilting Guild will meet at 9:30 a.m. for an in-house community service project at Readington Reformed Church, 124 Readington Rd. New members are welcome at Zoom meetings, workshops and lectures. For information, email hunterdon-

countyquiltingguild@gmail, or visit https://hcquiltingguild.wixsite.com/hcquiltingguild.

Speakeasy Event April 22

As part of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish 100th Anniversary Celebration, a Speakeasy featuring Nancy Colleti and Judy Palmer performing popular songs from the 20th century will be presented at the church, 390 County Road 523, Whitehouse Station, at 6:30 p.m. This event is hosted by the Anniversary Committee and the Knights of Columbus 6930. Tickets are $30 per person with canapés, beer and wine included. 1920s period attire, optional. For tickets, email anniversary@ollwhs.org, or call Roman Hnidj at 908-2569760 or romanhnidj@verizon.net.

Comedy Night April 22

The Polish American Citizens Club on Kline Boulevard in Whitehouse Station will present comedians Steve Trevelise, Vince August and Eric Potts on the PACC stage. Two options are available for the show - Dinner & Show $50, or show only $30. Doors open at 6:30, dinner is at 7, and the show begins at 8. Purchase tickets in advance at http:// www.paccwhs.org/.

Ham and Turkey Buffet Dinner April 29

The Ladies Auxiliary of the Three Bridges Volunteer Fire Company (TBVFC) will host the annual dinner in the fire company banquet hall at 467 Main St., Three Bridges. Dinner will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Wine, beer and soft drinks will be available for purchase.

continued on page 3

Upcoming Events

continued on page 3

Take-out meals can be pre-purchased if ordered before April 26. Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for children, and free for children 5 years old and younger and can be purchased at https://tbvfc33. wixsite.com/tbvfc or the TBVFC Facebook page. Tickets at the door will be based on availability. All proceeds benefit the Three Bridges Volunteer Fire Company. For more information, contact Ladies Auxiliary President Victoria Maurer at 609-501-0263.

Red Dog Day May 6

Readington River Buffalo Farm on Route 523 will host a familyfriendly event from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with pasture tours to see the baby bison (“red dogs”), arts and crafts, vendors, food, local beer, and live music.

Historical Society Holds Tag Sales

The Tewksbury Historical Society will participate in the 8th annual Oldwick Town Sale sponsored by the Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, Oldwick, on Saturday, April 29, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. THS will hold an additional Tag Sale on Saturday, May 6, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. THS Sales will be located at the Oldwick Carriage House, 5 James St., Oldwick.

The society will be selling clean, quality items, which are in working operation. Antiques, furniture, art works, chinaware, dishes, crystal, silver, housewares, garden items, costume jewelry and linens will be among the available merchandise.

The Town Sale on April 29 will include many residents holding their own yard sales throughout the community. Additional booths will be set up at the parking lot of the church’s Christian Education Building on Miller Street.

Whitehouse Rescue Squad Golf Classic Planned

The Whitehouse Rescue Squad will launch its inaugural Golf Classic at the Stanton Ridge Golf and Country Club on May 15.

There will be beer and wine, contests and raffles, and an awards luncheon. The format is a scramble. The cost is $185 per person, with proceeds earmarked for lifesaving tools and equipment.

Registration forms are available on the Whitehouse Rescue Squad Facebook page and www.whitehouserescue.com. For questions call Jeffrey Zielinski at 908-256-5340 or email jzielinski@whitehouserescue.com.

The squad responds to all of Readington Township with in-house duty crews for rapid responses to emergencies. –Submitted by Scarlett Doyle

RVCC to Launch Adult Learners’ College

Raritan Valley Community College will launch a new Adult Learners’ College this fall to help older students fulfill their personal or career goals.

The college is geared for students age 25 and older who are looking to begin or complete their college degree, explore a new career path, gain additional train-

ing, get a promotion at work, be the first member of their family to attend college, or improve their English. Special support services will be offered to help students complete their education. In addition, 7-week semesters will be offered for some programs, providing adult students with a more convenient

academic schedule to help them balance work, school, and family obligations. For a list of programs, visit https:// www.raritanval.edu/academic-programs/online-courses.

Fall 2023 Semester begins Aug. 30.

Readington Woman Killed in Plane Crash

A Hunterdon County woman was killed in a small plane crash on Sunday afternoon, March 12.

Roma Gupta, 63, of Readington Township, died in the plane crash in North Lindenhurst, which is in Suffolk County, New York, according to a news release from the Suffolk County Police Department.

Her daughter, Reeva Gupta, 33, of St. Davids, PA, was a passenger in the plane and was taken to Stony Brook University Hospital, police said. The pilot, Fayzul Chowdhury, 23, of the Bronx, NY, was also taken to Stony Brook University Hospital.

The small plane took off from Republic Airport in East Farmingdale, NY, with the three people on board at 2:18 p.m. Sunday, police

said. A short time later, the pilot issued a mayday signal and indicated there was smoke in the cockpit, according to the news release.

The aircraft turned back toward the airport to make an emergency landing before crashing near the intersection of Wellwood Avenue and 5th Street in North Lindenhurst, approximately 300 feet south of the Long Island Rail Road track, at 2:58 p.m.

Roma Gupta was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Federal Aviation Administration was notified and responded to the scene. The National Transportation Safety Board will continue the investigation to determine the cause of the crash.

Craft Show Vendors Wanted

Readington Reformed Church

Women’s Ministries seeks crafters for the annual craft show on Nov. 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Readington Reformed Church, 124 Readington Rd.

Readington Museums Hosts Barn Dance

May 13

By Margaret Smith Program Director

Put on your dancing shoes for a night of family fun as the Readington Museums hosts its bi-annual Barn Dance on May 13 from 7 to 9 p.m. The dance will be held inside the 18th-century Wade-Wyckoff Barn at the Bouman-Stickney Farmstead, 114 Dreahook Rd. in the Stanton section of Readington Township, (for GPS use Lebanon). This family-friendly event is a wonderful way to have fun with the entire family. Caller Betsy Gotta will give easy-to-follow instructions before each dance so even a beginner will be able to dance the night away.

Hunterdon Medical Center Expands Emergency Department

Hunterdon Health on March 13 officially cut the ribbon to unveil a new expansion that will increase the number of private beds in Hunterdon Medical Center’s Emergency Department. The expansion added eight new rooms to the Emergency Department which will now have 32 rooms.

Last year, Hunterdon Medical Center’s Emergency Department saw over 30,000 patients. The busy Emergency Department will see an average of 90 patients a day. The expansion added 2,900 square feet to the unit and includes eight flexible use rooms that can be used for both low acuity or behavioral health patients. When a room is needed for a behavioral health patient, an automatic wall can be activated to safely store away equipment.

Interested craft vendors should contact Judy at 908-369-4227 or email jdiselin@comcast.net for registration forms. The fee is $40, table included. Register early as spaces fill up quickly.

There is a suggested donation of $5 per adult and $2 per child. For groups of six or more, call for a reservation. For more information, call 908-236-2327.

“By designing new rooms that can be used for psychiatric patients, we will be able to decrease wait times and improve the patient experience in the Emergency Department for everyone – especially our patients experiencing a mental health crisis,” explained Edward Spector, M.D., Medical Director, Hunterdon Medical Center’s Emergency Department.

The expanded space includes two large nurses’ stations and a private workspace for Hunterdon Behavioral Health’s Crisis staff.

This expansion cost $3 million

Need/considering extensive dental work?

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!

and was entirely funded by philanthropic support and the State of New Jersey. Senator Andrew Zwicker and Assemblyman Roy Freiman were instrumental in securing the funding from the State. At the event, Senator Zwicker shared, “This community deserves an emergency department that can provide great care to its patients and this addition will do just that.”

Assemblyman Freiman added, “Emergency rooms across the country have been seeing increased numbers of patients suffering with mental health. It’s great to know that we have a facility that can care for them with dignity and compassion in our very own community.”

Hunterdon County Board of Commissioners Deputy Director Jeff Kuhl stated, “Hunterdon Health has been an important part of Hunterdon County since my grandfather was involved in its founding in 1946. The growth in quality of care over the years is something that every Hunterdon County resident can be proud of. It was an honor to be a part of the ribbon cutting ceremony.”

Donors were also recognized including lead donors ShopRite of Hunterdon County operated by the Colalillo family. Patients will benefit from the new space beginning this month.

Meet Ned Hector, Revolutionary War Soldier

bombardier, wagoner, soldier, teamster, and patriot, interpreted by Noah Lewis, will come alive for a dramatic presentation of true “storytelling.” He will talk about his journey in the American Revolution. Private Hector participated in the Battles of Brandywine, PA, and Germantown, PA, and was noted for his courage during the retreat from Brandywine.

Noah Lewis has been interpreting Ned Hector since 1996, and is the author of the book, “Edward ‘Ned’ Hector, Revolutionary War Hero - Time Traveler,” published by Author House in 2005.

Township Committee Ousts Readington News Municipal Bulletin in Split Vote

At the March 6 Township Committee meeting, in a vote of 3-2, the Township Committee voted to eliminate The Readington News as the source for providing information regarding the Township to the citizens of Readington. (Executive Session: Contract Negotiations / Professional Services / Social Media Management on the agenda.) In its place the Committee, again in a vote of 3-2, voted to have Point Consulting, LLC provide such communication exclusively via social media. Mayor Huelsebusch and Committee members Mueller and Panico voted to eliminate The Readington News and enter into contract with Point Consulting, and Committee members Albanese and Heller voted to continue the relationship with The Readington News and not enter into contract with Point Consulting. The Readington News provides 11 issues annually. The center page bulletin the Township has used to communicate Township events, actions, and other relevant information costs $10,450 annually, reaching all of the approximately 6,000 Readington mailboxes and a host of public locations at which residents can pick up a free copy. The social media option, costing $16,800 annually, was not detailed at the meeting, but will require anyone who wishes to be informed to be a user of at least one social media platform and subscribe to the page or pages created by Point Consulting on behalf of the Township.

The Point Consulting contract lists John J. Cahill as owner. In local political circles, John Cahill is better known as JJ Cahill, who serves as the Executive Director of the Hunterdon County Republican Committee and has been a strong supporter of Committee member Panico’s various political campaigns. Mr. Cahill now has a contract to run a social media site for the Township, at a cost of $6,350 more than the previous communications through the apolitical Readington News. Not only does this contract cost the taxpayers of Readington Township more, but it will reach less people and wholly exclude those who do not participate in social media.

By Margaret Smith Program Director

Come back in time to the Bouman-Stickney Farmstead and meet Ned Hector, Revolutionary War Soldier, on Sunday, May 7, from 1 to 2 p.m. Edward “Ned” Hector, a free black man,

The program is free, but donations are appreciated.

Registration is recommended and can be accessed at www. readingtonmuseums.org, by email at readingtonmuseums@ gmail.com, or by calling 908236-2327. GPS location: 114 Dreahook Rd., Lebanon.

Residents of Readington who are not on social media are the biggest losers of this campaign to provide Township news only via social media, but all citizens lose in this blatant misuse of local tax dollars.

It is unclear based on the March 6th meeting who will provide the information Mr. Cahill’s company will post, whether the various Township departments who already communicate online with their constituents will be allowed to maintain their own online presence, and whether any departments of the Municipality were consulted prior to this vote. Mr. Mueller indicated at the March 6th meeting that the change from The Readington News to Point Consulting, LLC was effective immediately.

Citizens who would like to continue receiving their Municipal news via our local Township newspaper can make their voices heard at any and all Township Committee meetings. Every meeting has a public comments section during which the public is invited to speak. The Township Committee meets the first and third Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the courtroom of the Municipal Building, located at 509 County Rd. 523 (Main Street), Whitehouse Station. Residents can also call the Municipal Building at (908) 534-4051.

Respectfully submitted, A Concerned Citizen ~ Paid Advertisement ~

Saturday April 1st - Sunday April 2nd

Friday April 7th - Saturday April 8th

Noah Lewis portrays Ned Hector

History of American Popular Song April 15

clave Brewery, Angelico Winery, Ironbound Cider, Beneduce Vineyards, and several farmers markets. Ed and singing partner Tom Johnston, as the acoustic duo Coo Coo Cachoo, have performed their Simon and Garfunkel tribute show and sets of classic rock at many area venues.

By Thomas Mullen

The Friends of the Hunterdon County Library (FOHCL) annual book sale will run April 22-24. We are all excited to report to our community on two things: Donations for the sale and scheduling.

In addition, there are some items we are not able to use: Anything on cassette, encyclopedias, pre-2018 computer and business books, textbooks, Reader’s Digest condensed books, magazines of any type, anything in mildewed, water-damaged, or beat-up condition.

By Margaret Smith Program Director

Ed Jankiewicz and the Holland Brook Hillbillies will provide an afternoon of music throughout history Saturday, April 15, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Bouman-Stickney Farmstead’s Wade-Wycoff Barn. Reservations are highly recommended for a seat inside the barn.

Ed will open the afternoon with a chronological musical journey through the development of the Popular Song from Early America through today beginning with sheet music to radio and record-

ing studios to the New Media of the Internet Age. The Holland Brook Hillbillies, featuring brothers Dan and Mike Allen, will follow with old-time-style guitar and banjo. They play a rollicking mix of folk, blues, and bluegrass tunes from throughout the past century. Be prepared to sing along and stomp your feet while painlessly learning a bit about the American music that influenced what we are hearing today.

Ed is local to Readington and is a retired software developer and musician who plays locally in venues including The Rail, Con-

Dan and Mike are brothers from Readington. Dan is a local organic farmer (@mistyacresfarm) and high school teacher, while Mike is a farmer and bird enthusiast who works for Rutgers University as an Ornithologist/Ecologist. The program is free, but donations are appreciated.

Register for either program online through www.readingtonmuseums.org, contact the museum by email at readingtonmuseums@ gmail.com, or call 908-236-2327.

As always, we seek the community’s support through donations. In fact, every single item we will be offering in the sale will come from someone in our neighborhoods; each year we completely renew our offerings.

As we gear up for this year’s sale, we are especially interested in certain items: Hardcover and paperback books, children’s books, DVDs, video games, and music/audiobook CDs, sheet music, former library books.

Please place books in boxes, if possible.

We will have two book drives this year, both on Saturdays: April 8 and April 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Grange Building (same place as in previous years) in the South County Park Fairgrounds, Route 179, Lambertville. Rain or shine.

The week after the second book drive, the main sale starts: Saturday, April 22, and Sunday, April 23. As always, we will be offering books on almost any conceivable subject, most for $2 each (for hardcovers), and a special collections boutique with individually priced rarities or unusual volumes. On Monday, April 24, we will have a bag sale (we’ll provide the bags). For more details and updates, please check: https:// hclibrary.us/friends/booksale.

Besides books, we need people! Volunteers are needed and welcomed to help collect books on the two collection Saturdays and also to help sort books in advance of the book sale. In addition, volunteers are needed for the three days of the book sale itself. To participate, download the volunteer form from www.hclibrary.us (click on FOHCL) or email fohclvolunteer@ gmail.com. For more information, contact fohclbooksale@gmail.com.

Every year our community has made this sale a great success for our county library system. In advance we thank everyone for their support.

Ed Jankiewicz Holland Brook Hillbillies

Blue & Gold – Eight Cub Scouts from Pack 1980 graduated from Cub Scouts at the pack’s annual Blue & Gold Banquet, held on March 5. All eight earned their Arrow of Light rank, and five of the scouts are moving on to Boy Scouts. Pictured, from left, are Assistant Cub Master John Hindle, AOL Scout Cameron Beim, Troop 90 Boy Scout and Pack 1980 Den Chief Brian Armstrong, AOL Scouts Devin Rogal, Brice Lindquist, Phillip Hindle, Nikolas Albanese, Lucca Sanz, Sage Williams, Mason Costigan, and Den Leader Jacqueline Hindle. - Submitted by Jacqueline Hindle

Celebrate Holy Week at Our Lady of Lourdes

The Church of Our Lady of Lourdes in Whitehouse Station invites all to celebrate Holy Week and The Paschal Triduum. The schedule is as follows:

April 1 & 2, Palm Sunday, Saturday Vigil: 5:30 p.m.; Sunday: 7:45 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and 11:15 a.m.

April 6, Holy Thursday, Mass of the Lord's Supper: 7 p.m.

April 7, Good Friday, The Passion of Our Lord: 3 p.m.

April 8, Easter Vigil: 7:30 p.m.

April 9, Easter Sunday: 7:45 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and 11:15 a.m.

- Submitted by Ramon Aldarondo, Pastoral Communications Assistant

Samuel D. Tropello, age 79 of Readington Township, died peacefully at his home, “White Oak Farm,” on Saturday, March 4.

Born in San Bernardino, CA, he was the son of the late Angelo Michael and Ruth (Hinrichs) Tropello. Sam grew up in Bergen County before moving to Readington Township over 45 years ago.

He earned both undergraduate and graduate degrees from Stevens Institute of Technology and was an engineer with Bell Labs and AT&T throughout his career. Generous with his time and talents, he garnered many close friends and adopted relatives, many of whom have claimed him as second dad or grandfather, to whom he enjoyed giving “Samisms.” He also was involved in politics and served on both the Readington Township Committee, and the Board of Adjustments. He was a volunteer Readington Recreation youth soccer coach for many years and played basketball and softball on town teams.

Sam was a member of Stanton Ridge Country Club since its inception, and golf was always his passion. He loved his farm, woods, nature, travel and yes, Elvis! In his later years he enjoyed playing pickle ball, and as a genuine kid at heart, loved all games.

Samuel D. Tropello

He was an avid Yankee and Giants fan but his true enjoyment as a spectator was while watching his grandkids activities and sports.

He both adored and admired his 3 children and never missed an event in their lives. He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 50 years, Dr. Paula Grace Dunn Tropello, his daughter, Jennifer Smith and her husband, Patrick of Charleston, West Virginia; his two sons, Bradford Tropello, Esq. and his fiancé, Selena Heningburg of FL, and Dr. Steven Tropello, and his wife, Dr. Elizabeth Logsdon of Baltimore; his brother, David Tropello and his wife, Daria of

Morris Plains and his eight cherished grandchildren, Natalie, Benjamin, Keith, Anna, James, Winnie, Catherine, and Beatrice. Donations in his memory may be made to any of the following: The Whitehouse Rescue Squad at PO Box 175, Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889, The Whitehouse Fire Company at PO Box 215, Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889, The Readington Twp. Police Department, PBA Local 317 at 507 County Rt. 523, Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889, or to The Whitehouse United Methodist Church at PO Box 190, Whitehouse, NJ 08888.

Elementary Behavioral Disabilities Program Established

By Staci Beegle-Director of Pupil Services, Susan Zimmerman-BD Teacher, and Zelia Lopes-ShreiberBehavior Specialist

The Readington School District Department of Pupil Services opened an elementary behavioral disabilities program on Feb. 1, located at Three Bridges School. The program is designed to support young learners with challenges regulating their behaviors, coping with transitions during the day, and interacting positively with peers and adults. The program utilizes praise, positive reinforcement, and academics individualized to each students’ levels. A variety of teaching strategies are incorporated into the program such as multi-sensory techniques, visual schedules, oneon-one support, and tools to help students succeed emotionally, academically, and strive towards independence. Each student has an individualized behavior intervention plan to address specific behavioral goals and will receive

counseling and social skills training. An Applied Behavioral Analysis approach is utilized to modify the students’ behaviors. Students who demonstrate social and emotional growth will have opportunities to be integrated back into the general education setting in a planned systematic manner to foster success and generalization of their skills. The goal as always is to help the student succeed emotionally and academically so that they can use those tools when they leave the classroom.

Social skills are a strong component of the program. Social skills are infused in activities throughout the day, such as learning that losing a game is okay, how to communicate with others, sharing, and turn taking, a social skills program, titled You Are a Social Detective! helps students figure out their own feelings and connect them to their daily life, explains how we learn and grow through our feelings, and how we are all social observers who are affected by others’ actions and

Hunterdon Sailing Club Cruises into its 60th Season

reactions. Students learn through a variety of hands-on activities by being a detective and finding clues to help solve the mysteries. Our goals are to equip the students with the tools needed to transition into the general education classroom.

Mrs. Lopes-Shreiber, one of our behavior specialists, provides teacher consultation weekly and direct support to staff on how to address challenging behaviors as well as how to target individual skills deficits. There is ongoing data collection and analysis of interventions. Mrs. Lopes-Shreiber models teaching interactions that often push the students to a place where they have to use the strategies they’re learning. Mrs. Monique Patti, the school social worker and case manager, and Mrs. Beth Furka, the school counselor, are also part of the dynamic team and provide counseling and support to the students, as well as the staff.

continued on page 10

By Lisa Bogart

Shortly after the completion of Spruce Run Reservoir in 1964, local residents, with the State of New Jersey’s permission, formed the Hunterdon Sailing Club (HSC). The Club was formally incorporated as a notfor-profit on March 12, 1964.

HSC is a club whose mission is to foster a community of sailors on the lake and promote sailing, the greenest sport in the world. Entirely run by volunteers, the club puts together a full season of events and offers introductory sailing lessons to both adults and children.

Sailing gets underway in April. Regattas (sailboat races) are held every Sunday afternoon, weather permitting, until mid-October. Wednesday twilight Sunfish (a small, popular sailboat) races begin during the first week of May and, with some adjustment for time in the latter part of the summer, run until mid-September. Learn to sail classes for youth and adults are held in June and July.

Club-owned Sunfish sailboats are available to members to use during

club-sanctioned events (Wednesday and Sunday regattas) and other special events and races throughout the season. The regattas help sailors to sharpen their skills during friendly races using rules set by the United States Sailing Association (USSA). And additional events run the gamut from the Commodore’s Cup to the very silly and fun Ladies’ Fleet Spruce Run-Around.

Club members are happy to help out and cheer each other on. Sometimes a hand is lent to rig up a boat, tie a loose line, or give welcome sailing tips. Sailors are a range of ages and have a wide range of abilities. And even though Spruce Run is where most sailors from the club spend the majority of their time, each outing is different. Wind and wind direction, temperature, the depth of the water, and the seasons, make each sailing adventure different.

As HSC enters its 60th season, we hope to continue the tradition of providing a fun, economical means to learn how to sail, keep building skills,

continued on page 10

Readington Schools Celebrate Green Accomplishments & You’re Invited

By Jonathan Hart Superintendent of Schools

The Readington Township Public Schools have been a beacon of environmental sustainability efforts and education for the better part of a decade. The district has been recognized several times by Sustainable Jersey for Schools and the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon program. It has also been featured in a recently published book titled Teaching Towards Green Schools by Linda Plevyak. These are just a few of the accolades the district

boasts. Each individual school has programs that promote environmental stewardship - from the EcoAmbassadors at RMS, to the Master Gardeners at WHS, the Farm to School award at TBS, and the Wildlife Habitat at HBS - the district is proud of these accomplishments. In order to celebrate, we invite interested community members to learn more about our school programs. The event will take place at Three Bridges School on Wednesday, April 26, from 5 to 6 p.m. The celebration will include a sample of locally sourced food as refresh-

Knights Support Shannon Daley Fund

Knights of Columbus Mother Seton Council #15540 recently donated $500 to the Shannon Daley Fund (www.shannonfund.org). The council has supported this local charity for a number of years. The council continuously raises money for charities through fundraisers such as golf outings and concerts. The next golf outing will be in September at Heron Glen Golf Course, and a concert is planned for the fall at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church in Three Bridges.

Hunterdon County’s Free Concert Series “Music Under The Stars” Planned

The Hunterdon County Division of Parks has announced plans for its free concert series, “Music Under the Stars,” at Deer Path Park, beginning in June. There will be five concerts, all held on Thursdays, from 7 to 9 p.m., June 29, July 13, July 20, July 27, Aug. 3 and Aug.10.

Commissioner Director Zach Rich said, “The annual ‘Music Under the Stars’ concert series brings together residents and families alike at Deer Path Park for some fun and free entertainment. I am grateful to Parks and Recreation Division Head Dan Bush and his entire

team for organizing these wonderful musical performances for our residents.”

The summer concert series is a family-oriented event, and residents are encouraged to bring friends, extended family, and their leashed pets, along with a blanket and lawn chairs. There are no food vendors at this event, so attendees are welcome to pack a picnic dinner. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted.

Funding for the concert series is made possible by the Hunterdon Board of County Commissioners and the Hunterdon County Cultural

ments, meeting our RMS EcoAmbassadors, and learning about the 3rd grade visit to the Trout in the Classroom program. Visitors will also have an opportunity to visit the newly constructed Three Bridges Bioswale. (A bioswale is a trench that receives rainwater runoff (as from a parking lot) and has vegetation (such as grasses, flowering herbs, and shrubs) and organic matter such as mulch to slow water infiltration and filter out pollutants.) To RSVP for this event, please email: rsvp@readington.k12.nj.us. & Heritage Commission, through proceeds from the Special Recreation Trust Fund.

Should weather conditions dictate that any events be moved indoors, concerts will be held at Hunterdon Central High School, 84 Route 31, in Flemington.

The Shannon Daley Fund was established in 2002 to help families deal with the financial impact arising from a child’s serious illness. It is named to honor the life of Shannon Daley, who died at 4 months of age due to a rare cardiac disease. The fund is managed by members of the Readington Mens’ Basketball League. The league holds a charitable basketball game every winter. Over the years, the

fund has raised over $3.5 million to help more than 100 families. - Submitted by Ron Foster, Trustee, Council #15540

Pictured are Knight Mike Schuler (Trustee, Council #15540, left) presenting a $500 check to Knight Rick Allorto (Vice President, Shannon Daley Fund.)

Elementary Behavioral Disabilities Program Established

Hunterdon Sailing Club Cruises into its 60th Season

continued from page 8 continued from page 8

Although the program has only been opened since Feb. 1, Mrs. Susan Zimmerman, the special education teacher of the program, shared the following when asked what has been the most rewarding this past month: “The most rewarding is definitely the little successes, such as communicating in longer phrases or walking in with a smile, a student appropriately asking for a break, completing a task they weren’t originally able to do.”

Hunterdon County School Counselor of the Year

and most importantly, safely enjoy being able to skim across the surface of the water, being moved along by the wind, in a beautiful setting.

For more information about the Hunterdon Sailing Club, visit www.sailhsc.org, or email membership@sailhsc.org.

By Dana Karas, NJSCA Professional

Recognition Chair

On Thursday, March 10, Christine Crielly, a school counselor from Readington Middle School, was selected as the 2023 Counselor of the County for Hunterdon County at the New Jersey School Counselor Association (NJSCA) annual “Counselor of the County” Awards Program. School counselors are nominated by their colleagues and are selected by their own county’s School Counselor Associations for this award. The award honors the professionals who devote their careers to serving as advocates for the nation’s students.

The Tewksbury Historical Society hosts local historian Barry Thomson on Sunday, April 23, at the Zion Lutheran Church Christian Education Building, 16 Miller Ave., Oldwick, at 1:30 p.m. The public is welcome at no charge, seating on a first come first served basis. Refreshments will be served.

Barry Thomson was born and raised in Peapack-Gladstone, received his undergraduate degree at Drew University and took architecture and urban planning courses at Harvard University. He was a David Rockefeller Fellow, a program sponsored by the New York City Partnership. He co-authored with the late Jack Turpin the twovolume work, “New Jersey Country Houses: Somerset County.” He writes extensively about history.

Thomson will present an illustrated talk on Three Fields, the site of the 20th Mansion in May

Designer Showhouse and Gardens presented by the Women’s Association for Morristown Medical Center.

Three Fields, designed and built between 1928 and 1930, is a 9,000 square foot stone, brick and tileroofed French manor style home located in the Borough of Mendham. The mansion was designed by New York architect Greville Rickard for Benjamin Duncan Mosser and his wife, the former Florence Willets Mosford.

The talk will cover the history and design of the Three Fields estate and discuss the first two families who lived there, the Mossers, who built the house, and Andrew and Dorothea Fletcher, who purchased the estate in 1949 and who were generous benefactors to Mendham. The talk will also describe the design of Three Fields by architect Greville Rickard and the original landscape architect, Robert Ludlow Fowler Jr. Mansion in May is the preeminent designer showhouse and gardens in the New Jersey-New York area, attracting over 20,000 visitors. Three Fields will be open to the public for Mansion in May from May 1 to May 31. Funds raised will contribute to the expansion and modernization of the Institute of Bioskills Training and Innovation at Morristown Medical Center. For more information on Mansion in May 2023 and to purchase tickets, visit www.mansioninmay.org.

The Tewksbury Historical Society is a New Jersey not-for-profit corporation, organized for the purpose of furthering research into, and the preservation and dissemination of, the history of the Township of Tewksbury. The Society requests donations of documents, records and small artifacts related to Tewksbury’s History for its archives. Anyone interested in joining the Society or volunteering at its functions may call 908-8326734 or email tewksburynjhistory@gmail.com.

Barry Thomson

Iron Girl Scholarship Applications Due

Iron Girl Project Inc. (IGP) has announced that the Alexea G. Karpinski Memorial Scholarship application is now available for any graduating high school senior who is a current resident of New Jersey and enrolling fulltime in an accredited undergraduate program/school, technical/vocational training, or the military upon graduation. The scholarship award amount is $2,253.00 and the number of scholarships to be awarded will vary based upon the number of eligible applicants and funds available.

Scholarship eligibility requirements and applications, in addition to IGP’s Laps For Lex Race Registration and sponsorship opportunities, can be found by visiting the irongirlproject.org website

or by emailing irongirlproject@ gmail.com for more information. The scholarship application deadline is April 30. All Hunterdon Central Regional High School senior student applicants may use the application provided through their school.

Iron Girl Project was specifically created to honor the memory of Alexea “Lex” Karpinski, an aspiring two-sport D1 athlete and Honor Roll student in her junior year at Hunterdon Central Regional High School who passed away suddenly in November of 2020. It supports high school student athletes on their journey to create their own legacy, one which has a positive impact on their teammates, families and communities.

Sheriff Works with State Police on Threat Preparedness for Schools

Hunterdon County Sheriff Fred Brown, along with the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office, in coming weeks will host a presentation to county school administrators and teachers, by the NJ State Police Bomb Squad, on Best Practices Related to School Bomb Threats. This important topic will furnish school personnel with the requisite knowledge to update their emergency response plans and implement best

CLASSIFIED ADS

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD: Type your ad exactly as you want it to appear. Ads are limited to 30 words (phone numbers count as one word). Mail your ad along with a check for $20 made payable to “The Readington News” to The Readington News, PO Box 5351, Branchburg, NJ 08876

PET/ HOME/ BRIDAL BOUQUET/ GENERAL ART – Watercolor and pastel. Very reasonably priced. Starting at $95.00. Two-three week delivery. Call Joanne 908-268-5044 or email joanneart.b@gmail.com.

Gorillas have a favorite month, and we’re in it. . . It’s Ape-ril!

People have been thinking about spring for months, but now, with all the potholes, we’re mostly thinking about the springs on our cars.

How can you pitch a winning baseball game without ever throwing a ball?

By only throwing strikes!

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

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.

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

practices in the area of bomb threats.

This critical initiative follows the most recent safety plan by Sheriff Brown to introduce and deploy Special Class 3 Officers through shared services agreements in several school districts in Hunterdon County.

For information on this new collaborative program, school districts can contact the Hunterdon County Sheriff’s Office at 908-788-1166.

It’s April and two types of people are complaining about paying their taxes – men and women.

Guy goes to the doctor in April and complains about being tired. “Well we all are,” says the doctor. “We all just finished a 31-day March!”

What is a bunny’s motto? Don’t be mad, be hoppy!

Where do rabbits go after their wedding?

On their bunnymoon!

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.

MEDICARE QUESTIONS? You need to work with a Specialist. Call “Medicare Mike.” I will simplify the process, educate you on your options and enroll you at NO COST. 973-563-7777.

Rate Increase for Substitutes - Readington Township School District has raised the substitute rate for the 2023-2024 school year. New daily rates are as follows: Substitute Teachers $125; Substitute School Nurses $225; Substitute Paraprofessionals $105; and Substitute Clerical Aides/ Secretaries/Custodians $120. Substitutes who work 40 cumulative days will receive a $100 stipend and another $100 stipend after 80 cumulative days worked during the school year. If you are interested, contact the Board of Education Business Office at 908-534-2896.