Readington News - May 2022 by Town Media

May 2022 www.readingtonnews.com

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Readington News A Community Newspaper

Contested Readington Township GOP Primary Race

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Serving All of Readington Township, NJ

Earth Day is Every Day in Readington Schools

By Betsy Freeman, Green Initiatives Coordinator and Eric Zwerling, Green Committee Chair

This year more than a billion people around the world celebrated Earth Day, and in Readington, Earth Day is every day, especially in our schools. All four schools in the district are US Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools Awardees, and are certified as Sustainable Jersey Schools. So what does that mean? Green schools aim to create optimal, healthy learning environments and save money, energy, and resources too. In Readington Schools, educators integrate social emotional learning, inquiry, academic rigor, and sustainability - in context while forging community partnerships to prepare learners to become engaged, productive, and environmentally conscious global citizens. At Readington Middle School (RMS), EcoAmbassadors work with schools around the world to support the UN Global Goals for Sustainable Development as they identify problems in their environment and work with local and global experts and school administrators to investigate issues like plastic pollution and cafeteria waste, and propose and develop solutions together. This year, RMS students presented their work globally, regionally, and locally at the International Conference for Sustainable Development, NJ Climate Education Summit, and to partners at Readington WaterWatch. Exploring life on land, each year the entire 7th grade class teams with community leaders for an annual Walk in the Woods to build a deeper understanding of and appreciation

for the protected natural beauty of our community and the ecosystem services it affords for all. In Holland Brook School (HBS), students and teachers actively investigate the condition of our natural world, donning waders with experts from Raritan Headwaters as they hone skills in scientific observation and data collection to analyze water levels, water flows, and currents in the South Branch of the Raritan River to understand their impact on erosion. They test water quality, examine organisms, and determine levels of pollution as they evaluate how surrounding land contributes to the quality of our water, important skills for stewardship in a community where the majority of homes are supplied by well water. In turn, our district administrators,

board members, and green committee work in concert with our township environmental commission to help tackle local water pollution by reducing run-off and improving groundwater charging. Green infrastructure projects like the stormwater retention basin between RMS and HBS is an approach to water management that protects, restores, and mimics the natural water cycle as it filters sediment and pollutants out using native plant materials that also serve as habitat for wildlife. In planning now is restoration of a bioswale at Three Bridges School (TBS) which will provide cleaner water and air and provide added value for the community through flood protection, diverse habitat, and a

Readington News

Readington Township Committeewoman Betty Ann Fort

Vinny Panico, former Board of Education member

Readington Township Committeewoman Betty Ann Fort has announced that she will seek reelection to the Readington Township Committee. In the June 7 Primary Election, she is being challenged by Vinny Panico of Readington. Panico served on the Readington Township Board of Education 2012 through 2015 and on the Hunterdon Central Regional High School BOE 2015 through 2022. From 2018 through 2022, Panico served as President of the Board of Education. He recently ran for State Assembly but was defeated. Fort is completing her third term on the Committee. She has received the endorsements of both the Hunterdon County Republican Committee and the Readington Township Republican Committee. “I thoroughly enjoy working with the residents of Readington to keep Readington a great and safe place to live, work, and raise a family,” Fort said. “My experience has given me a full

understanding of the challenges facing Readington and how to meet them. I am currently working on several issues that I would like to see through to completion. Among these are satisfying the court-mandated affordable housing obligation while minimizing the impact to the Township, continuing to work with the State DOT to enhance safety on Route 22 median openings, updating zoning along Route 22 to attract desirable businesses, supporting our current businesses, continuing improvements to Township parks and playgrounds, supporting Open Space preservation, and continuing to lower Township debt while keeping taxes stable.” During Fort’s time on the Committee, Township debt has been reduced by nearly one third, and all litigation with Solberg Airport has been resolved. Additionally, she was instrumental in establishing the initial speed limit reduc-

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“I am the first step when it comes to purchasing or refinancing a home. Call me and lets start the conversation.”

(908)547-7798 Jason Moore NMLS# 1785692 jmoore@jerseymortgage.com NJ, PA, NY, CT, & FL Jersey Mortgage Company of New Jersey, Inc. (Jersey Mortgage) 511 South Avenue East, Cranford, NJ 07016. 800342-6597. NMLS No. 2761. Licensed by the New Jersey of Banking & Insurance. Licensed Mortgage Banker -- NYS Banking Department Services. Jersey Mortgage is an Equal Housing Opportunity Lender. Residential mortgage loans/home equity lines of credit are subject to the underwriting standards and independent approval of Jersey Mortgage. Rates, terms, and programs are subject to change without notice. Residential mortgage loans/home equity lines of credit may not be available in all states. Other restrictions may apply. Not an offer or commitment to lend.

Upcoming Events ets cost $10. For reservations and at 1 p.m. at the Pickell Park parkOpen Space Hike May 15 information, call 908-231-8805. For ing lot off Mountain Road. To sign Spring is a wonderful time for a Editors/Publishers: additional information, visit www. Sunday afternoon family hike to the up, or for questions, email trails@ Monita Casey Haduch, Bill Haduch raritanval.edu/planetarium. top of Cushetunk Mountain. Wood- readingtontwp-nj.org, or leave a Advertising Manager: Karen C. Muller land wildflowers will be evident message at 908-782-6452. Contributors: Cat Adoption May 7, 14, 21 along the mountainside pathway. Lisa O’Donoghue & Susan Torsilieri Bernie’s Buddies Cat Rescue will The reward for a strenuous 450 foot Charity Golf Event May 20 Mailing Services: Mike Sanchez hold a cat adoption event at Bar- climb up the steep mountain side Our Lady of Lourdes Council Art: Jacki Hasko, Megan Clewell kley’s Marketplace, 3150 US-22 6930 Knights of Columbus Whiteis a terrific view Readington to the Layout Services: Steve Skladany (near ShopRite), Branchburg, 11 east and Round Valley Reservoir to house Station presents its 18th AnThe Readington News is mailed a.m. - 2 p.m. Meet and greet adopt- the west, impressive woods and pos- nual Charity Golf Event at 9 a.m. monthly, free-of-charge to every mailable kittens and cats and learn about sible bald eagle sightings. The hike at the High Bridge Hills Golf Club, Tag Sales April 30, May 7 ing address in Readington Township. Free copies are also available for disThe Tewksbury Historical So- the adoption process. time will be about two hours. Meet 203 Cregar Rd., High Bridge. Cost is tribution in places of business, schools, ciety will participate in the 7th anand municipal offices. nual Oldwick Town Sale sponsored DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE * * by the Zion Evangelical Lutheran JUNE 2022 Church, Oldwick, on Saturday, April May 15 for Ad Materials and GET TOP DOLLAR FOR YOUR HOME 30, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. THS will hold News Materials .3&15*&6 1/+&12 ".% "+& 41& .& *2 & GET TOP DOLLAR FOR YOUR HOME GET TOP DOLLAR FOR YOUR HOME an additional Tag Sale 1/+&12 ".% "+& 41& .& *2 & on Saturday, .3&15*&6 .3&15*&6 1/+&12 ".% "+& 41& .& *2 & The Readington News is not liable !/4 May *,, && 3)& *''&1&.$& 7, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. THS Sales !/4 *,, && 3)& *''&1&.$& for failure to publish an ad, for typo*,, && 3)& *''&1&.$& will be located!/4 at the Oldwick CarInterview Interview 3 Brokers &3 Make Sure One isisOne Me!! YouWill Will See the Difference! Market Dominant!!! graphical errors, or errors in publica "1+&3 /-*.".3 Interview Brokers & Make Sure is You Me!! You Will SeeDifference! the Difference! Market Dominant!!! "1+&3 /-*.".3 3 Brokers & Make Sure One Me!! See the Market Dominant!!! "1+&3 /-*.".3 riage House, 5 James St., Oldwick. tion, unless, in our judgment, the error 105 Sold 2021 • 110 Sold 2020 Sold 110 Sold 2020 Sold2021 2021 ••110 Sold 2020 The Town Sale on April 30 will inmaterially affects the content and 105105 4 Generations Hunterdon, 44Generations fromfrom Hunterdon, advertising value of the ad. clude many residents holding their Generations from Hunterdon, Compensation will not exceed the cost Experience Counts! own yard sales. Additional booths Experience Counts! ® Experience Counts! of the space in which an error occurs. ® • NJ Realtors of Excellence Platinum will be set up at the parking lot of the • NJ Realtors Circle Circle of Excellence Platinum ® 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015 2021, 2019, The Readington News has the right to • NJ Realtors Circle of Excellence Platinum 2021, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015 church’s Christian Education Build•Trends Real Trends Top 100 2020, 2021, 2019, 2020, 2018 2019, 2018 refuse any advertisement for any rea• Real Top 100 2021, ing on Miller Street. 2021, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015 ® Watercolor Show & Sale April 28-May 2 The Hunterdon Watercolor Society will hold a show and sale at the Sawmill Gallery at Prallsville Mills, 33 Risler St., Route 29, Stockton. Hours are Thursday, Friday and Monday noon to 5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cash or checks only.

#1 AGENT AT * HUNTERDONS ! " AGENT HUNTERDONS #1#1 AGENT ATAT HUNTERDONS #1 BROKER COLDWELL BANKER 2021

#1 ! ! " " #1 48&12 ".% &,,&12 /. 3 & //,&% BROKER COLDWELL BANKER 2021 #1#1 BROKER COLDWELL BANKER 2021 48&12 ".% &,,&12 /. 3 & //,&% 48&12 ".% &,,&12 /. 3 & //,&% Sellers Don’t Be Fooled! Sellers Don’t Be Fooled! Sellers Don’t Be Fooled!

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®)1,/0 '/")$ ,% 4"$))$+"$ ) 1'+2* son, and is not responsible for)1,/0 claims ● $ Top 500 Agents in Country 2021, 2019 2020, 2019 ! ● $ '/")$ ,% 4"$))$+"$ ) 1'+2* Agents in Country 2021, 2020, ! • Top•500 • Real TrendsBanker Top 100 2021, 2020, 2019, made by advertisers. We ask our read• Coldwell Top 10 #3 2020, 2021, 2020, 2019 2018 $ ) /$+#0 ,- • Coldwell Banker Top 10 #3 2021, 2019 $ ) /$+#0 ,- Astronomy Day May 7 ® keep us informed ers to of any mis• Top 1% of Coldwell Banker Agents Worldwide $ )1,/0 '/")$ ,% 4"$))$+"$ ) 1'+2* • Top 500 Agents in Country 2021, 2020, 2019 ! ,- &$+10 '+ ,2+1/5 • Top 1% of Coldwell Banker Agents Worldwide ,- &$+10 '+ ,2+1/5 Valley The Raritan Community leading advertisements. • Experience Makes a Difference FREEMAN “Jeff” Smith ••Experience a Difference ColdwellMakes Banker Top 10 #3 2021, 2020, 2019 ,)#3$)) +($/ ,- FREEMAN “Jeff” Smith ,)#3$)) +($/ ,- /$+#0 ,- Planetarium College in Branchburg Phone/Fax: 1-800-530-3046 Office: 908-735-8080 Office: 908-735-8080 ,- ,% ,)#3$)) +($/ &$+10 ,/)#3'#$ • Top 1% of Coldwell Banker Agents Worldwide ,- ,% ,)#3$)) +($/ &$+10 ,/)#3'#$ Email: readingtonnews@gmail.com &$+10 '+ ,2+1/5 will present a special Astronomy ISellNewJerseyHomes.com 908-500-1640 ISellNewJerseyHomes.com Direct: 908-500-1640 Direct: MARKET SHARE | Mailing address: P.O. Box 5351, | MARKET SHARE Jeff.Smith@cbmoves.com Day, celebrating astronomy and • Experience Makes a Difference Jeff.Smith@cbmoves.com 3$)) +($/ ,- Branchburg, NJ 08876 Property Type Price Range DateISellNewJerseyHomes.com Range MARKET SHARE |Type science. The event, scheduled from Price Range DateISellNewJerseyHomes.com Range Area TypeArea Type MARKET SHARE | Property Office: 908-735-8080 SingleHome, Family Home, Townhome, 0 - 999,999,999 1/1/2020 1/1/2020 - 11/30/2020 Web: www.readingtonnews.com Single Family Townhome, Condo, Condo, 0 - 999,999,999 - 11/30/2020 County County ,% ,)#3$)) +($/ &$+10 ,/)#3'#$ Lot/Land, Farm, Commercial, Multi Family

FREEMAN “Jeff” Smith

2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m., will feature Direct:ISellNewJerseyHomes.com 908-500-1640 VALUE ADDED SERVICES - FREEMAN VALUE ADDED SERVICES - FREEMAN “JEFF”“JEFF” SMITHSMITH hands-on activities for all ages inJeff.Smith@cbmoves.com the ISellNewJerseyHomes.com, 908-500-1640 ISellNewJerseyHomes.com, 908-500-1640 Town Media Newspaper exhibit area and outside the PlanHunterdon Hunterdon Type Price Range DateISellNewJerseyHomes.com Range Area Type MARKET SHARE | Property By Unit Volume Publishers: By Unit Volume etarium, telescope viewing 1/1/2020 in the - 11/30/2020 County • Zillow Elite • Zillow Preferred Check the Check Reviews! Elite Agent! Preferred Agent! thezillow.com/profile/jeff-smith7/ Reviews! zillow.com/profile/jeff-smith7/ Single FamilyCasey Home, Haduch Townhome, Condo, 0 - 999,999,999 Bill Haduch, Monita Lot/Land, Farm, Commercial, Multi Family 3M Observatory, shows Property Type Price Range and stars Date Range Area Type • • Top Marketing! Drone Tour, Drone Photos, Walk Through Professional Top Marketing! Drone Tour, Drone Photos, WalkVideos. Through Videos. Professional Counties: Family Home, Townhome, Condo, 0 - 999,999,999 1/1/2020 - 11/30/2020 County Photography, InteractiveInteractive FloorplansFloorplans & More. & More. Photography, and laser concerts. The day also will Hunterdon ©2022Single Creative Resources/ Lot/Land, Farm, Commercial, Multi Family By Unit • Mega Social • Mega Media Exposure, Facebook,Facebook, Instagram,Instagram, Linkedin, Etc... Counties: Social Media Exposure, Linkedin, Etc... Town Media, AllVolume Rights Reserved include an astronomy and music 984 Hunterdon • • 900 Direct Linked Websites for Maximum Exposure. 900 Direct Linked Websites for Maximum Exposure. show specifically designed for chilBy Unit Volume • Will Install All Smoke Detectors, CO Detectors and Fire Extinguishers as per State/ • Will Install All Smoke Detectors, CO Detectors and Fire Extinguishers as per State/ dren on the Autism spectrum. TickLot/Land,Property Farm, Type Commercial, Multi Family

Price Range Price Range

Property Type Counties: Counties:

MARKET SHARE A|Creative Resources/

Date Range Date Range

Area TypeArea Type

SingleHome, Family Home, Townhome, 0 - 999,999,999 1/1/2020 1/1/2020 - 11/30/2020 Single Family Townhome, Condo, Condo, 0 - 999,999,999 - 11/30/2020 County County Hunterdon Hunterdon Farm, Commercial, Multi Family Lot/Land,Lot/Land, Farm, Commercial, Multi Family By Unit Volume Counties: By Unit Volume Counties: 984

984

Town Code. It Will Pass. Town Code. It Will Pass.

# 1 2 3 4 5 6

Name

List #

1 Coldwell Banker Coldwell Banker 2 Weichert Weichert 3 Keller Williams Keller Williams 4 Re/Max Re/Max 5 Berkshire Hathaway Berkshire Hathaway 6 All Other All Other

525 425 230 231 104 TOTALS

554 TOTALS 2,069

List # 525 425 230 231 104

List $ 219,630,936 191,030,813 91,703,800 92,830,092

46,449,746 554 256,682,194 2,069 898,327,581

List $ Sell # 219,630,936 459 191,030,813 351 91,703,800 290 92,830,092 269 46,449,746 121 256,682,194 579 898,327,581 2,069

Sell # 459 351 290 269 121

Sell $ 194,767,336 149,118,390 124,672,584 110,524,238

55,372,761 579 263,872,272 2,069 898,327,581

Sell $ Total # 194,767,336 984 149,118,390 776 124,672,584 520 110,524,238 500 55,372,761 225 263,872,272 1,133 898,327,581 4,138

Total # 984 776 520 500 225 1,133

•

Will Meet• Will All Town You Don’t You HaveDon’t To. Have To. MeetInspectors, All Town Inspectors,

•

Will Order andOrder Coordinate NJ Required TestWater and Meet at House. • Will and Coordinate NJWater Required Test Them and Meet Them at House.

•

Have All•Contractors in Place Who are Licensed Handle Any Inspection Issues. Issues. Have All Contractors in Place Who aretoLicensed to Handle Any Inspection Will Coordinate for You. for You. Will Coordinate WillTotalFill Out All Required Paperwork Required for Closing.for Closing. $ Fill • Total Will Out All Town Required Town Paperwork Required $

•

414,398,272

340,149,203 • 340,149,203 Unlimited Amount ofAmount Real Estate Experience to NavigatetoAny IssuesAny ThatIssues ComeThat Up toCome • Unlimited of Real Estate Experience Navigate 216,376,384

Get to 203,354,330 Closing! Get to Closing! 203,354,330

216,376,384

101,822,507

520,554,466

520,554,466 4,138 1,796,655,162 SOLD SOLD 1,796,655,162

Freeman

Smith

“Jeff”

©2020 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company ©2020 Coldwell Banker. All which Rightsare Reserved. Coldwell Banker the Coldwell Banker logos Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Theand Coldwell Banker® System Banker is comprised of company owned offices owned by a subsidiary ofand Realogy Brokerage Group LLCare andtrademarks franchisedof offices which are independently owned operated. The Coldwell System fully supports the principles owned officesofwhich areHousing owned by a and subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage the Fair Act the Equal Opportunity Act. Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Based on information from Garden State MLS, LLC for the period 1/1/2020 through 11/30/2020. Due to MLS reporting methods and allowable reporting policy, this data is only informational and may not be Based on information from Garden Therefore, State MLS,Coldwell LLC for the period 1/1/2020 11/30/2020. Due to MLS reporting methods by andthe allowable reporting policy, is only informational and908-500-1640 may not be 908-500-1640 completely accurate. Banker Realty doesthrough not guarantee the data accuracy. Data maintained MLS's may not reflect allthis realdata estate activity in the market. completely accurate. Therefore, Coldwell Banker Realty does not guarantee the data accuracy. Data maintained by the MLS's may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.

Up to

ColdwellColdwell Banker Banker Realty Realty

As published As in Real Trendsin500 Source” published Realreport Trends- “The 500 Trusted report - “The Trusted Source”

#1 Residential Brokerage....24 Years Straight! #1 Residential Brokerage....24 Years Straight! *#1 Broker*#1 Based on Sold Transactions GSMLS 2020 Broker Based on Sold Transactions GSMLS 2020 There’s A There’s Reason A ForReason It! | Publicly Traded on Wall Street! | For It! Publicly Traded on Wall Street! 186 Center186 Street, Clinton • Office: Ext.6544 Ext.6544 Center Street, Clinton908-735-8080 • Office: 908-735-8080

ISellNewJerseyHomes.com ISellNewJerseyHomes.com *As reported through State MLSGarden 2021 State MLS 2021 *AsGarden reported through

©2013 Coldwell Banker ® Real Estates LLC.® Coldwell Banker ® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and Operated by NRT LLC. 9821007-05 ©2013 Coldwell Banker Real Estates LLC. Coldwell Banker ® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and Operated by NRT LLC.

Name

Coldwell Banker

Weichert

Keller Williams

Re/Max

2 The Readington News • May 2022

List #

List $

Sell #

Sell $

Total #

Total $

525

219,630,936

459

194,767,336

984

414,398,272

425

191,030,813

351

149,118,390

776

340,149,203

230

91,703,800

290

124,672,584

520

216,376,384

231

92,830,092

269

110,524,238

500

203,354,330

9821007-05

Sapphires & Sequins Fundraiser May 12

Upcoming Events cont’d Carrot Cake Sale May 21 The Readington Reformed Church, 124 Readington Rd., has cancelled the annual Roast Beef Dinner due to coronavirus concerns but will be selling a limited number of the carrot cakes normally served at roast beef dinners. These cakes will have cream cheese icing and will be available in 8” x 8” pans for $10 on a prepaid, advance-order basis only. To order, call 908-534-2077 and leave a message. Cakes will be Quilting Guild May 20 The Hunterdon County Quilting available for a contactless driveGuild will meet at 9:30 a.m. at the through pickup on Saturday, May Readington Reformed Church, 124 21, from 1 to 3 p.m. Readington Rd., Readington. Guest speaker, Karen Dever, will present Anderson House Golf Outing “The Two Faces of Quilting.” New June 6 members are welcome. See https:// The 23rd Annual Anderson House hcquiltingguild.wixsite.com//hcquiltingguild for info or email hunt- charity golf outing will be held at erdoncountyquiltingguild@gmail. Stanton Ridge Golf and Country Club. For all the details visit https:// com. AHGolf2022.givesmart.com. $150 per person and includes green fees, carts, breakfast, lunch, refreshments, gift bags and prizes. For information call or email Rich Drake, rich.drake@comcast.net or Gerry Boylan, 908-246-0610, gboylan@ embarqmail.com. Proceeds will enable the Knights to support many local organizations like Starfish Food Pantry, Hunterdon ARC, Clinton ARC, and Lyons VA Hospital.

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The Hunterdon Healthcare Auxiliary will host its signature event, Sapphires & Sequins - Women Supporting Wellness on Thursday, May 12, at 6 p.m. at Hamilton Farm Golf Club in Gladstone. It will be a fun night out filled with wine, shopping, and fashion with proceeds benefiting the life-saving services provided by Hunterdon Behavioral Health and Hunterdon Healthcare Medication Access Program. To register online visit www.sapphiresandsequins.org. For more information, call the Hunterdon Healthcare Foundation Office at 908-788-6141 or email foundation@hhsnj.org.

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May 2022 • The Readington News

Readington School District Marks Mental Health Awareness Month By Anthony Tumolo, Supervisor of SEL & Special Projects Readington Township School District May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, first celebrated back in 1949 where it was commemorated by the Mental Health America Organization, formerly known as the National Committee for Mental Hygiene. The National Committee for Mental Hygiene was founded in 1876 by a man named Clifford Whittingham Beers. Beers was born in Connecticut, one of five children. All of his siblings including himself suffered from mental illness and psychological distress as well as spent time in mental institutions. As a result of his time in one of these facilities, Beers witnessed the corrupt malpractice, maltreat-

ment, and incredible bias against patients suffering with mental illness. This motivated him to write a book called, “A Mind That Found Itself,” which remains on the bestseller list to this day. His mission behind the founding of his association was, “to make sure that mental health patients not only received the right care, but also did not feel alone in their fight against mental diseases.” In recent years, there has been increased focus and attention on mental health, self-care, and emotional well-being. However, the effects of the pandemic have sparked our school community to take immediate and long-term action steps to support healthy physical, emotional, and psychological well-being for all members of our district family. The district has introduced several programs, activities, and supports centered

on mental health awareness and education to decrease the stigmatization around mental illness. The intention for this focus is to teach students, staff members, and families to identify healthy ways to take care of themselves. Furthermore, we want to educate all members of our Readington family to feel empowered to identify when they need help and where to find that support. For example: • The Aevidum Curriculum (Grades 2, 5, and 8) • The Child Assault Prevention Program (Grades 3, 4, and 6) • A fourth part-time school-based counselor under the partnership of Hunterdon Behavioral Health • Employee Assistance Program to support the wellbeing of our staff and their families. • Grade level SEL board approved curriculums • The development of a district-

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wide document containing local partnerships with mental health services and supports • District opportunities dedicated to adult self-care National Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a critical reminder for all of us to take active, purposeful care of our own psychological and emotional health. “To be on the safe and hu-

Hunterdon Hospice Offers Training for New Volunteers Hunterdon Hospice will offer a Volunteer Training Program on Saturdays, June 11 and 18, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Classes will take place at the offices of Hunterdon Hospice, located at 215 Route 31 South in Flemington. Hunterdon Hospice is a Medicare-certified, non-profit organization providing hospice care to individuals in Hunterdon, Mercer, Somerset, and Warren county. Training to become a Hunterdon Hospice volunteer is a unique and meaningful experience. This multiweek course is designed to educate and train participants to fulfill various roles. Content includes the history of Hospice in America, the

history of Hunterdon Hospice in our community, the services provided by Hunterdon Hospice, and the skills needed to be a volunteer. Hunterdon Hospice volunteers are needed for patient and family support, office support, fundraising and community awareness events. Additionally, those with special skills in cosmetology, massage, Reiki, music and pet therapy are needed to help support the complimentary services hospice provides. To learn more and schedule an interview, contact Kim Kelleher, Manager of Business Development and Volunteers: 908-788-2573 or email: kkelleher@hhsnj.org.

Reflective House ID Signs Available from Readington Township CERT First Responders rely on reflective home address numbers. The use of highly visible address panels provides the fastest possible response time for you and your neighbors. The Friends of Readington Township Citizens Corps Program (a 501(c)3 organization), in partnership with Readington Township CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), offers all local homeowners a solution that’s effective and affordable. The House ID signs are visible from long distances, especially at night when it’s most important.

4 The Readington News • May 2022

man side, let every relative and friend… remember the golden rule, which has never been suspended with respect to the insane. Go to see them, treat them sanely, write to them, keep them informed about the home circle; let not your devotion flag, nor accept any repulse.” ~ Clifford Whittingham Beers

The signs feature extra-heavy 18” x 6” aluminum panels with green 3M Prismatic reflective sheeting and white 3M Prismatic numbers. The sign can be mounted vertically or horizontally on most mailbox posts. Two screws are included for mounting on many posts. The cost of the double-sided House ID sign is $20. Proceeds from the program go toward the operating budget of the all-volunteer Readington Township CERT. Visit https://www.readingtontwpnj.gov/images/OEM/reflectivehouse-id.pdf to download an order form. - Submitted by Irene Novak

MAY 2022

Township of Readington News from the Municipal Building

FIND MORE MUNICIPAL INFO ON THE TOWNSHIP WEBSITE: READINGTONTWPNJ.GOV

Yard Debris and Approved Usage of Fire Pits

Tree Seedling Giveaway a Huge Success The State Forest Nursery in Jackson did not have seedlings available this year, so the Township Committee voted unanimously to purchase “tubelings” so the show could go on – and boy did it! The assembly line ran quite smoothly, thanks to approximately 15 dedicated volunteers. CERT members did a fabulous job organizing traffic flow through the municipal building parking lot. Several volunteers, most notably two Cub Scouts, literally ran back and forth from the line of cars collecting order forms and delivering them to volunteers who filled the orders. Other volunteers moved flats of seedlings to where the orders were filled. The consensus is that this seedling giveaway has been a great event for the Township and that the tubelings are preferable to the larger bare-root seedlings of previous years. We look forward to seeing you all in April 2023!

With warm weather coming, it is time to get outside and do yard work. Part of that is cleaning up fallen branches, plant cuttings, and any remaining leaves. It should be noted that burning of yard debris is illegal in New Jersey under most circumstances. Only farmland assessed properties can obtain a permit through NJ Forest Fire Service to dispose of this material via burning. Burn barrels are also not permitted in New Jersey as they are not designed for containing a fire and the resulting embers. What is permitted is using an approved fire pit with a matching mesh screen to dampen any sparks or embers from leaving the fire pit. It must also be used at least 15 feet away from any structure. Only split, seasoned, dry firewood shall be used. Disposal of specific yard material can be done at Readington Public Works with a permit. For more info or questions, contact Township Fire Official Sean B. Smith at (908) 534-4051x263 or email: fire_official@readingtontwp-nj.org. 2nd Quarter Sewer Fees Due

JUNE 1

Memorial Day Parade Monday, May 30 10:30 AM

Main St. Whitehouse Station

Township Committee introduces 2022 Municipal Budget

The Township Committee introduced the proposed 2022 municipal budget at its April 4th meeting and will hold a public hearing at the May 2nd meeting prior to adoption. The budget proposes to increase property taxes by .02 per $100 of assessed property value. For the average property taxpayer ($450K The Planning Board recently approved assessed value), this is an increase of approximately $73/year. The municipal portion of your property the subdivision of a lot on James Street tax bill totals approximately 19%. in Whitehouse Station into two lots. One of the lots has a house on it which is Township Readington carried a $3.644M surplus into 2021. Surpluses are desirable to keep bond ratings high, owned and for many years it was part of our Afford- bond interest rates low and allows flexibility for the municipality throughout the year as needed. Apable Housing plan. It has been vacant for several proximately $1.9M of the surplus was used to fund the 2022 budget. The total proposed budget inyears. This lot and house will be auctioned off at a creased from 2021 by a total of $497,341 or 2%. The primary drivers of budget increases are employee future date. The other lot, which is vacant with no salary increase year-over-year, pension expenses and higher gasoline and diesel prices. buildings on it, will be donated to Habitat for HuIn 2022 the Township Committee dedicated .01 (about $350K) of the taxes to go towards capital immanity as part of the Township’s settlement of its provements that will increase the down payment on the capital bond significantly as a mechanism to Court-mandated Affordable Housing Settlement. incur less debt. Capital improvements are items that usually have a life span of more than 5 years such as: road repairs, emergency equipment, parks equipment and maintenance, public works equipment, etc. Habitat for Humanity is a national organization which works with lower-income families to provide Overall debt was lowered from end of year 2020 to end of year 2021 by $2.1M homes. A duplex home will be built on this lot, and So, what does the Readington taxpayer get for the municipal portion of their tax bill? the two families who will live in these homes will be • Readington Township Police Department required to put in a lot of time in helping with con• Public Works: road maintenance, plowing, paving, drainage maintenance, buildings and grounds struction. When the homes are complete, the fami• Equipment: emergency vehicles, plows, mowers, backhoes, trucks lies will assume the mortgages and will own the • Recreation Department, park development & maintenance, museums homes. • Curbside garbage pickup and recycling The structure will mimic the architecture of the • Municipal services: government boards and committees, court system, code enforcement, zoning, neighborhood surrounding the homes, as James elections, animal control, licensing, social services Street is included in the Whitehouse Station Historic • 9,000 acres of preserved land District. • ...and much more

James Street Housing

May 2022 • The Readington News

“Invisible Sons” is Topic at Historical Society Meeting Gina Sampaio will be the guest speaker at the Tewksbury Historical Society Meeting on May 22 at the Zion Lutheran Church Christian Education Building, 18 Miller Ave., Oldwick, at 1 p.m. Parking lot entrance is on Church Street. Guests are welcome. Refreshments will be served. Sampaio, Curator of the Township of Lebanon Museum at New Hampton, will present “New Hampton: the Invisible Sons.” The Lebanon Township Museum is the site of the former New Hampton School, which was attended by the “Carlisle Indian boys,” who were young native Americans from Carlisle, PA, who worked on local farms. Sampaio will showcase their contributions to life in the township. Sampaio is a graduate of Rutgers University with a minor from

the American Studies Department. She is a past docent and Museum Administrator at the Red Mill Museum Village. She became Curator at the Township of Lebanon Museum at New Hampton in 2019. Society membership is open to those interested in the history of Tewksbury Township. Members receive a quarterly newsletter and advance notice of all programs and events the society holds throughout the year. The society conducts three regular meetings per year on a Sunday in January, March, and May and a fourth Covered Dish Supper meeting in November, each with a program. In alternate years it sponsors a Barn Tour and a Garden Tour. It hosts an Annual Juried Art Show and holds Tag Sales in Spring and Fall. (www.tewksburyhistory.net)

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Whitehouse Veterinary Hospital, 274 Main St., Whitehouse Station, welcomes a new doctor to the staff: Dr. Nicholas Sakitis. Dr. Nick grew up in Piscataway and graduated from Immaculata High School in Somerville before earning his Pre-Veterinary and Animal Biosciences Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Delaware. He then went on to Kansas State University where he earned

his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree. In addition to his academic journey, Dr. Nick completed an externship at Whitehouse Veterinary Hospital from 2020 to 2021. Dr. Nick has always enjoyed stimulating activities that require finesse, physicality, and intelligence in order to succeed. To that end, down time is often spent engaged in playing the drums, swimming, being out on a tennis court, or challenging his skills as a video gamer. When in complete relaxation mode, he takes pleasure in travelling, attending Broadway shows, going to the beach and spending time with family and friends. Dr. Nick is dedicated to caring for all animals. He has a particular affiliation for rabbit medicine and surgery, with breed shout-outs that include Mini Rexes, Lion Heads, and Flemish Giants. Relative to veterinary medicine, Dr. Nick believes in always being there to ease a patient’s pain and commits to devoting on-going professional development to constant improvement by expanding his knowledge and perfecting his skills.

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Senior Safety Awareness Program May 24

Sheriff Frederick W. Brown

Ensuring elderly safety starts with equipping senior citizens and caregivers with the necessary tips, skills, and resources. The Senior Safety Awareness Program will connect senior citizens and caregivers with comprehensive information, because finding the resources to care for yourself and aging loved ones should not be difficult or overwhelming. The Senior Safety Awareness Program will be held on Tuesday, May 24, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall of Immaculate Conception Church, 316 Old Allerton Road, Annandale. The free event is open to seniors and caregivers seeking information, tips, or resources about senior safety. Featured presenters include Hunterdon County Sheriff Frederick W. Brown, Home Health Services from Hunterdon Healthcare, and the Clinton Township Police Department. Topics of discussion will include: dependable in-home care assistance, simple but essential senior financial needs (including the importance of having an updated will, power of attorney, medical directive, living wills, and updating beneficiaries of retirement accounts and insurance policies), avoiding cyber and/or telephone scams, injury and fall prevention, protections against fire and related dangers, home safety assessments, and the Blue Angel program. There will be a question and answer opportunity with the presenters on each topic.

Jersey Basketball League Champions

Earth Day is Every Day in Readington Schools continued from page 1

beautiful green space that will serve as a springboard for student learning. The Rutgers Water Resources program is a partner on the project along with district and township leaders. Sustainable facilities design and management is key to maintaining a healthy commons. Analyzing the district’s carbon footprint is an educational opportunity for all; electricity production from the schools’ solar arrays are logged in real-time on the district website. Rife with learning potential and in line with the launch of New Jersey’s new, and first in the nation, Climate Change Education standards, the Board of Education recently allotted funding for curriculum writing this summer in all Readington Schools to support the use of school buildings and grounds as learning labs. Case in point: since energy conservation initiatives began in 2010, total energy costs have dropped from approximately $1 million per year to $400,000. In the 2020-2021 school year, the district met 35% of its total electricity needs from our solar arrays. The district is currently evaluating the potential expansion of solar installations in the district, and grants for electric buses too. When First Lady Tammy Murphy visited schools across the state tagged as leaders in climate change education and sustainability, Whitehouse School was one of her first stops. Third graders there created their own recycling campaign, collecting and diverting over 300 pounds of plastic headed for landfills. From planting trees to growing food from scraps to reduce food waste, Whitehouse School cultivates hands-on, minds-on learning. Complementing their outdoor Sensory Garden, a hallway Sensory Path invites students to hop, reach, and skip, engaging different parts of the brain as they enjoy physical activity and mindful movement while developing motor skills. Three Bridges School, a Sustainable Jersey for Schools Champion, invites students to flex their math and science skills in their Seed to

Plant program. Students learn and exercise patience, care, teamwork, and responsibility as they use companion planting to grow pesticidefree vegetables for a whole school salad from their soil-based and hydroponic gardens. In Readington Schools, education for sustainability threads through, and weaves together, school subjects and extends far beyond the classroom. Our approach is rooted in real-world problem-solving, critical thinking, and action so learners are poised for discovery as inquisitive, engaged, and productive citizens in an ever-evolving world. Education for a sustainable future produces schools that learn too.

The Readington Rebels Travel Basketball team recently finished an awesome season with a record of 13-3. They continued their winning streak and beat Watchung 33-25 in the quarter-finals. In the semi-finals, the Rebels played against Berkeley Heights and won 49-36. On Sunday, March 20, the Readington Rebels headed to Oratory Prep in Summit to participate in the Jersey Basketball League Championships. This 6th grade team, made up Readington Rebel teammates and their coaches are (back row, from left) Coach of 11 and 12 year olds, played Bill Croft, Jack Edwards, Leo Borella, Oliver Galdo, Coach Danny Galdo, Nathan Richards, and Coach Ash Shah, (front row) Alex Croft, Jack Weissen- their hearts out and were able burger, Devin Kennedy, Marcus Strauss, Sahil Shah, and Luca Ingenito. to pull off a win, beating Morristown 25-18. A big congratulations to the Readington Rebels and their coaches! - Submitted by Kim Weissenburger

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May 2022 • The Readington News

Contested Readington Township GOP Primary Race continued from page 1

tion and electronic speed signals at the intersection of Route 523 and Pleasant Run/Stanton Roads. She served on the Planning Board for many years, chaired the Board of Adjustment, and has served as liaison to various Township departments, including Museums, Historic Preservation, Zoning, DPW, Emergency Services, and Library Services. She has organized the Memorial Day Parade for several years and has served on the Holiday Tree Lighting Committee. Panico said, “I want to bring a fresh perspective to the Readington Township Committee. As a young man planting roots in Readington, I know the challenges facing our taxpayers. By prioritizing Readington families and

small businesses, I will be able to bring a new voice to the table and represent those who are looking for energy in the Township.” He said his “leadership experience, fresh perspective, and strong Republican conservative values are exactly what Readington needs as the Township continues to reduce its long-term debt in the face of an onslaught of state mandated high density housing developments.” Additionally, he said, he will “liaison between the school boards to continue to improve education for Readington’s youngest citizens.” As a prior candidate for State Assembly, he said he will leverage his connections at the County and State to support Readington residents.

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Laps for Lex 5K Run and 1 Mile Walk The Second Annual Laps for Lex 5K Run and 1 Mile Walk is scheduled for June 5 at 8:30 a.m. at Lenape Park, 114 Sergeantsville Rd., Flemington. The Iron Girl Project, Inc. (IGP) was created to honor Alexea “Lex” Karpinski, a varsity 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 in their journey to create their own legacy, one which has a positive impact on their teammates, families and communities. The proceeds raised by Laps for Lex and future events will go towards scholarships for graduating senior athletes who demonstrate true grit, understand the value of teamwork and exhibit leadership on and off the athletic field. In addition to the 5K Race and Walk, the event will include food and beverages, sports activities/ games, IGP merchandise and music provided by Showoff Productions. Everyone is invited to support this event and run alongside IGP’s friend, Lindsay Dolashewich, a registered dietitian and New Jersey native who is currently competing on the reality competition, Survivor 42. Register for the race through

https://runsignup. com/lapsforlex5k. Virtual options are available for those who cannot attend in person. All participants who register by May 1 are guaranteed a race t-shirt. The Iron Girl Project, Inc. was specifically named to describe Lex, an aspiring two-sport D1 athlete who worked hard to be strong both physically and mentally. In addition to being Alexea “Lex” Karpinski with Baxter a field hockey and lacrosse goalie on multiple teams, Lex also worked School, Peacock Beauty Studio, with trainers, her dad, and on her Pincofski Orthodontics, Proforma, own to constantly improve. Ac- Showoff Productions, and Triple cording to her parents, Danielle and Threat Elite. For more information on the Mike Karpinski, “Lex believed that every day was a chance to be great- Iron Girl Project, sponsorship oper than the day before, for herself, portunities, and upcoming events, friends, teammates and coaches. It including Links for Lex to be held was important to Lex to prove her at Stanton Ridge Country Club in worth and create a positive legacy.” Whitehouse Station on Oct. 17, see Iron Girl Project would like to irongirlproject.org or email ironthank the following sponsors for girlproject@gmail.com. their generous support, Blue Fish Grill, Cutting Edge Salon, Hunterdon Healthcare, Parisi Speed

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SATURDAY, MAY 7TH 10am - 5pm

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Holt Retiring from County Commission

Six-term veteran Hunterdon County Commissioner Matt Holt has announced his retirement from the board effective May 1, 2022. A three-time Director of the Board first elected in 2006 and a former Mayor and Council member in the Town of Clinton, Holt said, “My service to the people of Hunterdon County over the years has been a labor of love.” Holt said he and his wife Megan will be moving to a property they have used as a vacation home outside of New Jersey. He retired from a 45-year work career earlier this year.

Church Program to Cover Origins, Local History Local historian and author Stephanie B. Stevens will be the main speaker in a Q&A formatted session moderated by Charles Paolino, a deacon of the parish. Stevens, also a retired educator and columnist for The Readington News, served on the Hunterdon County Cultural and Heritage Stephanie B. Stevens and Charles Paolino Commission for many years, and as chair, initiated The Reverend Father Leonard Rusay, appointed in 2003 and the numerous projects. Her books intenth pastor to serve at Our Lady clude topics of local interest includof Lourdes Church, has announced ing the forgotten mills of Hunterdon that as a prelude to the parish’s up- County, the history of Readington coming 100th anniversary celebra- Township, the Polish community of tion in 2023, the church will be host- Whitehouse Station, and the history ing a program on Sunday, May 15, of Round Valley. She founded the at 2 p.m. detailing the origins and Readington Township Museums history of the church and surround- and served as mayor of Readington ing communities. The program will Township. She is a former member take place at the church, 390 Route of the Governor’s Task Force on New Jersey History and in 1999, 523, Whitehouse Station. the state legislature recognized her

as a “NJ Woman of Distinction.” Historical topics will include the arrival of the first Polish settlers early in the 20th century, the growth of a community with shared cultural and religious ideals, the rigors of life in a largely undeveloped area, and the founding of the parish in 1923 — an event that some did not welcome. At the time, Catholics were often the victims of discrimination and bigotry. This small parish was no exception. Many stories have been told of cross burnings initiated by local Ku Klux Klan members in a field across from the little church, intended to terrorize the young Catholic community. Yet the church survived, and the parish today now approximates 1,600 families. Paolino worked for more than 40 years as a newspaper journalist in central New Jersey and is now managing editor at RENEW International, a non-profit Catholic organization that focuses on parish renewal. The event is free and open to the public.

Students Raise Funds for Life Choices Choices Resource Center, which provides women free healthcare. The senior class raised the most money, $1,536.81. “At Life Choices we help women save their babies, find housing and jobs. We provide them with clothes, diapers, and food for their families. All the money you collected will go a long way to help moms, dads, and their children. We are very proud that the girls at the Mount are part of the ever-growing Pro-Life GenPictured are Respect Life Club members from Mount Saint Mary Academy in Watc- eration” and they should also be hung: Rachel Castela of Lebanon, Julia Falcone of Chatham, and Diana Neste of proud of themselves,” said Christine Riggio, Life Choices DirecWhitehouse Station. tor of Office Operations. By Michelle H. Daino Saint Mary Academy in WatcMichelle Kovach, theology hung, announced that the club teacher and moderator for the raised $3,166.99 during its Baby Respect Life Club of Mount Bottle Campaign to benefit Life

Hunterdon County to Offer 2022 Teen Arts Festival The Hunterdon County Cultural & Heritage Commission, through funding from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, is continuing for the second year a county-wide Teen Arts Festival running from May 1 through June 15. The Hunterdon County Teen Arts Festival features a collaboration of virtual and in-person events, programs, and workshops hosted by local arts organizations including ACME Screening Room, Flemington DIY, the Hunterdon Art Museum, the Hunterdon County Library, and Roxey Ballet. Collectively these organizations provide high quality live and virtual performances and classes in filmmaking, fine art, dance, music, and literature. Students will have the opportunity to showcase their creative work and receive constructive feedback from

professional artists. Teen Arts Festivals, which are offered annually statewide through the New Jersey State Teen Arts Festival and by individual counties, help student artists develop perceptual, intellectual, and technical skills; provide a means of self expression and empowerment; network with professional artists, teachers, and peers; and develop social and cultural awareness. All Hunterdon County high school students and teenagers are welcome to participate in the events offered by leading local arts organizations. Visit https://www. co.hunterdon.nj.us/depts/c&h/ links.htm for more information. The Hunterdon County Cultural & Heritage Commission promotes and supports arts, culture and history by nurturing a sense of place, a culture of creativity, and an enthusiasm to preserve and maintain its history.

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Distinguished Student of the Year is RMS 8th Grader college level math curriculum. Hammerheads swim team. But For fun, Phil tinkers in game what he may love best is caring development, coding in Java and for his four pets at home: a dog, Python, designing his own UI a cat, a bearded dragon, and a and game play strategy. From a snake. young age Phil was an accomThe NJAGC Distinguished plished chess player, hitting the Student Awards recognize stuhighest ranks in Boy Scout Chess dents in grade levels (K-2), (3-5), Club tournaments where he plays (6-8) and (9-12). Nominations with his fellow Boy Scouts from for the 2023 Distinguished Stuall over the state. Phil loves the dent Awards in all grade- level outdoors. He is an aspiring hiker categories will be accepted from and mountaineer regularly at- Sept. 1 through Dec. 15, 2022 tempting to climb different peaks through the NJAGC website. To nationwide and his current re- find out more about these awards, Pictured are Dr. Jonathan Hart (Superintendent), Mr. Ilya Kazantsev, Philip cord is 12,600 feet at the summit contact awards@njagc.org. Kazantsev, Mrs. Maria Tsabrova Kazantsev, and Mrs. Betsy Freeman (Gifted of Humphrey’s Peak in Arizona. and Talented Teacher). He also trains rigorously with his demics, Leadership, and/or Visual Submitted by Readington Middle and Performing Arts. School Private Day Camp for Children 5-13 Phil is always seeking to know The NJ Association for Gifted how the world works, and is fasciJune 27 - August 12, 2022 Children is honoring Philip Ka- nated by math and science, espeIn the of Hunterdon County zantsev, an 8th grade student at cially chemistry. In 5th grade, Phil Readington Middle School, as was a state finalist in the You Be the 2022 NJAGC Distinguished the Chemist competition hosted Student of the Year (Grades 6-8) by BASF. By the time he entered for Academics. The awards were 8th grade, Philip had completed May 22 developed to recognize students his first college level chemistry with exceptional ability and course and during the current 1:00 - 4:00 pm (Rain or Shine) achievements in the areas of Aca- school year has been working on

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What They Went For Recent property sales reported in Readington Township: 1327 Berry Farm Road $355K 103 Dove Cote Court $145K 495 Highway 22 East $370K 68 Junco Court $250K 5 Lamington Road $190K 215 Nuthatch Court $262K 94 Old Highway 28 $235K 16 Owl Court $215K 22 Owl Court $220K 1006 South Branch Drive $375K 1109 South Branch Drive $520K 326 Sparrow Court $253K 602 Springhouse Drive $465K 6 Springtown Road $849K 6 Tavern Lane $364,900 30 Van Cleef Drive $775K 79 Van Cleef Drive $640K 84 Van Cleef Drive $845K

New Scout Troop Forming

Attention local girls in grade 5 through high school: Scouts BSA is starting a new troop for girls in Annandale. Scouts BSA, formerly Boy Scouts of America, is a traditional scouting experience for youth in the fifth grade through high school. Service, community engagement and leadership development become increasingly important parts of the program as youth lead their own activities and work their way toward earning scouting’s highest rank, Eagle Scout. For more information contact Troop432G@gmail.com. - Submitted by Art Dunn

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Readington Middle School Class Visits Exotic Fish Store

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 Bee Hive Equipment Sale - Unopened Bee Hive Equipment. Unused Supers and Deeps with wood and plastic frame foundations, hive bottom boards, and screened escape hatches. Call 908-246-9313 Flemington.

Whoever wrote the song “Easy Roommate Wanted - To share a 4-bedroom bi-level private room / private Like Sunday Morning” did not bath. Small pets welcome. $600 per month / 100 utilities. Call/text: Ask have kids. for Chas 908-625-7980. Located in Annandale. Nice neighborhood. Son: “Mom, can I get twenty bucks?” Caregivers Wanted! Comfort Keepers of Flemington is seeking kind, Pictured (front row, from left) are Lily Rutgers, Danielle Wilson, Anna Rut- Mom: Does it look like I’m made caring, reliable and compassionate caregivers. Flexible Hours. Full-Time, gers, Arianna Markowitz, Wyatt Hughes, Carmine Colantuono, (back row) of money? Ani Kapidi, Peggy Fisher, Tanya McNeil, Randy Fisher, Richard Calderon, Son: Well, isn’t that what M O M Part Time, Weekends and Overnights. Top Pay! For more information David Salvador. stands for? call: 908-806-3768. Submitted by RMS Life Skills Class

The Readington Middle School Life Skills Class took a community based instruction trip to the First Choice Aquatics fish store. The store is in Flemington and owned by 20-year-old Randy Fisher. A few days before the trip the students explored the store’s website and watched an intro video on First Choice Aquatics. With teacher support the students created three written questions they would later ask Randy. Randy and his mother Peggy gave the students a tour of the store. Peggy fed their 5-yearold shark named Biggie. Randy showed the students many of their saltwater and freshwater fish. The

students were able to see the coral What is the shortest month of the being grown in the back of his year? store. Randy even let them touch M-A-Y... a starfish. He discussed many of the jobs and responsibilities within the store. Randy also discussed Support his koi fish pond at home and how he maintains ponds for customers Our Advertisers… on the days the store is closed. Many lessons were learned They Make by the students and Randy was able to connect with some future The Readington News aquatic enthusiasts.

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RWJBarnabas Exec RVCC Commencement Speaker

DeAnna Minus-Vincent, Corporate Vice President for the Social Impact and Community Investment practice at RWJBarnabas Health, will deliver the commencement address at Raritan Valley Community College’s spring commencement, Saturday, May 14, at 10 a.m. Minus-Vincent will receive an honorary degree during the ceremony, which will be held on the soccer field at the Branchburg campus. Robert P. Wise, former Chair of the RVCC Board of Trustees, also will receive an honorary degree during the ceremony. More than 1,100 students are expected to be awarded associate degrees or certificates.

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Knights of Columbus Assist Local Charities

Mother Seton Council #15540, Knights of Columbus, Three Bridges, continued charitable endeavors recently raising over $2,000 for relief efforts in the Ukraine and providing $1,000 to the Shannon Daley Memorial Fund. The Shannon Daley Fund assists families with children facing a serious illness. The Somerville area FISH (www.jerseycares.org) program received $750. - Submitted by Ron Foster, Trustee

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