11-25 WWP by Community News Service

Soccer standout

during a recent match. Read about Boateng and the team on Page 14.

Aderhold defends WW-P against viral ad campaign

By Bill SAnseRVinO

West Windsor–Plainsboro

Schools Superintendent David Aderhold has issued a scathing public response to what he described as a politically motivated campaign targeting the district’s performance and leadership.

Aderhold’s 14-page statement was released in response to a statewide advertising campaign by Wake Up Call NJ, a self-

described nonprofit advocacy group that launched a multi-million-dollar effort in September focused on the WW-P and Montclair school districts.

The organization, co-founded by philanthropist Laura Overdeck and former state Deputy Education Commissioner Peter Shulman, says its goal is to equip parents with facts and demand transparency.

Meanwhile, Wake Up Call NJ co-founder Laura Overdeck,

maintained in letter responding to Aderhold that the campaign is not political and that Aderhold misunderstands its mission. In his statement, which was released to all families in the distroct, Aderhold said the district “welcomes transparency and dialogue and rejects the incomplete and incorrect narrative about student performance being promulgated by the politically motivated organization called Wake

See DEFEND, Page 6

Two up for Plainsboro seat on WW-P Board of Education

By Bill SAnseRVinO

Plainsboro voters will decide one three-year seat on the West Windsor-Plainsboro School Board of Education in the Nov. 4 election.

This year’s contest features incumbent Paul O’Brien against Hanif Payak.

The News invited both candidates to respond to a series of questions on funding challenges, teacher recruitment, enrollment trends, student wellness, and com-

munity engagement. Their biographies followed by their unedited responses appear below.

O’Brien has lived in Plainsboro for nearly three decades and was appointed to the Board of Education in July following a competitive public process.

Since joining the board, O’Brien has served on the Finance Committee. He brings more than 30 years of experience in senior living, healthcare and real estate . He has led multi-million-dollar

operations, consulted on publicservice housing initiatives and spoken nationally on sales strategy and service.

O’Brien serves as president of the Northern Knights Marching Band Boosters and previously helped found the Plainsboro Business Partnership and served on Plainsboro’s Human Relations Council. His wife, Denise, has been active in the Girl Scouts community for more than a decade.

WW-P High School South senior captain Meadow Boateng runs upﬁeld

RWJUH Hamilton November Healthy Living / Community Education Programs

CARING FOR LOVED ONES WITH CHRONIC CONDITIONS

Mondays; Nov. 3 + 17; 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

ADULT CHILDREN CARING FOR PARENTS

Mondays; Nov. 3 + 17; 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday, Nov. 4; 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 19; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday, Nov. 4; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Presented by our oncology nurse navigator and certiﬁed oncology social worker at The Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton, this support group welcomes those who have received a breast cancer diagnosis in all phases of their journey, and offers participants an opportunity to share personal experiences, helpful resources, and methods of coping with feelings of anxiety and distress. Please call 609.584.2836 to conﬁrm attendance.

BASIC CAR MAINTENANCE

Wednesday, Nov. 5; 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Learn simple ways to maintain your vehicle this winter and keep yourself safe.

THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Wednesday, Nov. 5; 6:00 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.

Many individuals remain uninsured due to the complexities of the Affordable Care Act enrollment process. Learn about deductibles, co-insurance, and copays.

NUTRITION STRATEGIES FOR DIABETES

Monday, Nov. 10; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 25; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Join our monthly series to learn how to

manage and control your diabetes through dietary choices. Learn the basics of diabetes and how nutrition affects blood sugar levels. Gain practical tips for meal planning and preparation to control your diabetes.

WII GAMES

Monday, Nov. 10; 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 18; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

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

BARIATRIC WEIGHT LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday; Nov. 11; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

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

WALKING THROUGH GRIEF: EMBRACING HOPE AND A PATHWAY FORWARD

Wednesday, Nov. 12; 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

The journey of understanding and navigating grief can be challenging. This program highlights a personal journey of walking through grief and offers practical ways to cope while healing. It emphasizes the transformative power of resilience, hope, and perseverance.

HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS

Thursday, Nov. 13; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Parents, sign up your kids ages 8-14, for this program to help them learn how to develop healthy relationships. Children will

learn what it means to be a good friend, how to show kindness and respect, and how to set healthy boundaries. We’ll talk about the importance of communication, empathy, and problem-solving in building strong and supportive friendships.

PREDIABETES CONNECT GROUP

Tuesday, Nov. 18; 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Diagnosed with prediabetes? This group is for you to connect with others affected. Explore ways to improve lifestyle changes.

WOMAN’S BOOK CLUB: THE TATTOOIST OF AUSCHWITZ BY HEATHER MORRIS

Tuesday, Nov 18; 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Please come prepared to discuss the novel.

CREATIVE ARTS: JUNK JOURNALING

Tuesday, Nov. 18; 2:30 p.m. - 3:30pm Junk journaling is a stress-reducing activity that allows you to express yourself through creativity. This unique way of journaling involves repurposing old items and transforming them into beautiful and personal works of art. Grab some “junk” and get crafty while working on your mental health and wellness.

DINNER WITH A DOCTOR: REGENERATE, DON’T JUST REPAIR!

Tuesday, Nov. 18; 6:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m.

Discover the beneﬁts of regenerative treatments for your tendons, ligaments, and joints – so you can live life to the

fullest. Join Adam Redlich, MD, a boardcertiﬁed and fellowship-trained Sports Medicine physician, for a discussion on how regenerative therapies can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and support overall wellness. Dinner provided.

WISE WOMAN DISCUSSION

GROUP: FAVORITE RECIPES

Wednesday, Nov. 19; 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Join us as we share our favorite recipes and biggest cooking ﬂops.

CANCER: THRIVING AND SURVIVING

Wednesdays; Nov. 19, 26 and Dec. 3, 10, 17. Tuesday Dec. 23; 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

This evidence-based class from Stanford University offers techniques to deal with cancer symptoms and its treatment such as fatigue, pain, sleeplessness, shortness of breath, stress, and emotional problems such as depression, anger, fear and frustration related to cancer, cancer treatment, and cancer recovery. This is a very experiential program, and it is expected that one attends all classes.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION

Wednesday, Nov. 19; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Learn how to help heal your body and relax your busy mind. No experience necessary.

STROKE SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday, Nov. 25; 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

A place for survivors and caregivers to build a community through shared personal experiences, feelings, and recovery strategies on managing life after a stroke.

Join the RWJ Rehab team, Ashley Sarrol, Speech-Language Pathologist, & Allyson Panikowski-Berry, Occupational Therapist. Survivors and care partners at any stage of recovery are encouraged to attend. MONTHLY BALANCE SCREENING

Wednesday, Nov. 26; 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

FREE screenings the last Wednesday of every month! These 15-minute appointments are designed to help assess one’s balance health/fall risk. The program is held at the RWJ Balance & Hearing Center, 2 Hamilton Health Pl, Hamilton Township, NJ. To book an individual personal screening time, call 609-245-7390.

ASK THE DIETITIAN

Friday, Nov. 28; 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Meet with our Registered Dietitian for a 30-minute appointment to discuss your unique nutritional needs.

THE AARP DRIVING COURSE

Monday, Dec. 1; 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Be a safer, better driver. Bring your NJ or PA driver’s license. $20 for AARP members presenting a valid AARP card; $25 for nonmembers. Bring cash (exact change) or check (payable to “AARP”) with you on the day of the class

SCAN THE QR CODE TO JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

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

A SOCIAL HOUR ESPECIALLY FOR SENIORS

Wednesday, Nov. 5, 12, 26; 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Join us for a casual conversation between peers and soon to be friends. Attend on all the dates, two, or even one. It’s your choice. New members are always welcome

GENTLE JAZZ CLASS

Wednesday, Nov. 5; 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Join us for a fun gentle jazz class led by one of our Better Health Members, a former Dance Instructor, Norma Barber.

TAI CHI CLASSES

Thursday, Nov. 6 and 20; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Tai Chi is recommended for seniors because it improves balance, strengthens muscles in the legs, and increases ﬂexibility and stability in the ankles. It can also help reduce falls and back pain. Beginners welcome.

NOURISH YOUR BRAIN: COOKING FOR BRAIN HEALTH

Friday, Nov. 7; 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Have some fun while learning recipes that can help fuel your brain.

GAME TIME!

Friday, Nov. 7 & 21; 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Join us for good wholesome fun – let’s play a game! Sharpen your skills or jump back into something you always enjoyed. Snacks and a variety of board games will be available, or you are welcome to bring your own. A great way to meet new friends or bring friends with you.

LUNCH & LEARN WITH BIANCA ESTROPIA, D.O., MOBILITY AND FALL PREVENTION

Monday, Nov.10; 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Join us as we welcome new provider, Bianca Estropia, DO, Geriatric Medicine, with The James and Sharon Maida Geriatric Institute at RWJBarnabas Health

Medical Associates. This program focuses on understanding the importance of mobility and fall prevention as we age with recommended exercises to improve balance.

YOGA CLASSES

Tuesday, Nov. 11 and 18; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Join us for this gentle yoga class using traditional postures and breathing techniques. Pose modiﬁcations will be offered so that you can conﬁdently participate. Beginners welcome. Registration is required.

MEDITATION CLASSES

Tuesday, Nov. 11 and 18; 11:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

CHAIR YOGA

Tuesday, Nov. 11 and 18; 12:00 p.m. - 12:45 p.m.

AGELESS GRACE: SEATED EXERCISE FOR THE BRAIN & BODY

Friday, Nov. 14; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 25; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

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

FRIENDSGIVING LUNCH

Wednesday, Nov.19; 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Happy Thanksgiving! Whether you come alone to meet new people or to catch up with old friends, join our Better Health Family for an enjoyable Friendsgiving meal and reﬂect on what you are most grateful for. Looking forward to kicking off the holiday season with you!

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

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Cottonwood Court

Two slates oﬀer contrasting visions in WW election

By Bill SAnseRVinO

West Windsor voters will decide between two slates offering distinct visions for the township’s future in the Nov. 4 nonpartisan municipal election.

Incumbent Mayor Hemant Marathe and his “Proven Leaders for West Windsor” team are seeking re-election, while the “West Windsor Together” slate is led by mayoral candidate Sujit Singh. The mayor’s seat and two Township Council positions are on the ballot, each carrying four-year terms.

Marathe is running with Council Vice President Linda Geevers and newcomer Joe Charles, a certified public accountant and 17-year township resident. Singh’s team includes council candidates Ajay Tomar and Andrew Winters.

Both sides say they are committed to responsible growth, fiscal discipline and maintaining a high quality of life, but they differ sharply on how to achieve those goals.

Marathe, who has served as mayor since 2018, says his administration has focused on steady leadership and careful planning to protect the township’s character.

“If given a choice, I would keep new housing developments in West Windsor to a small scale and restrict commercial development to industries that are less labor intensive and along Route 1,” he said.

Marathe adds that his strategy of acquiring open space and repurposing large parcels of land has helped reduce the number of new housing units required under state affordable housing mandates. Marathe says the township’s proactive planning has positioned West Windsor to meet its obligations while minimizing disruption to existing neighborhoods.

Singh and his West Windsor Together slate are calling for change. They argue that the current administration has approved large-scale projects that have strained infrastructure and eroded public confidence.

“Economic development must be pursued thoughtfully, with a clear understanding of its long-term impacts on quality of life, infrastructure, neighborhood character, and environmental sustainability,” Singh said.

The Proven Leaders team points to a record of fiscal restraint and transparency. Marathe said that during his tenure, the average municipal tax increase for homeowners has been about eight dollars per year. Charles, who is seeking a council seat, said that his background

as a CPA will help the township make smart budget choices.

“I serve as a trusted adviser, people leader, and inclusive mentor,” Charles said.

“A prime example of rational cost-benefit analysis is reducing twice-a-week summer garbage pickup to once a week so those funds can be redirected to higher priorities such as police and emergency services,” he said.

Geevers, who has served two decades on council and previously on the school board, said her long experience in budgeting and planning helps her balance community needs with financial realities.

“I strive to listen to residents at public meetings, community events and privately,” she said.

“There are significant needs for additional police, fire and EMS services, and the township has hired additional public works employees to keep up with park maintenance and other public services,” Geevers said.

The Proven Leaders slate emphasizes that it has preserved more than half of the township’s land as open space, expanded traffic improvements, and advanced environmentally sustainable policies.

Marathe says he plans to continue those initiatives, including adding electric vehicles to the municipal fleet and adopting green development standards for future projects.

The West Windsor Together platform calls for “a smarter approach” to growth, including mixed-use development instead of large warehouses.

Singh’s slate opposes the Bridge Point 8 complex and criticize the recently built warehouse on Princeton-Hightstown Road, describing them as damaging to the environment and community character.

They say the township should focus on creating walkable centers with restaurants, retail and recreational amenities that strengthen community ties.

Council candidate Ajay Tomar, who has lived in West Windsor since 2007, says he supports innovative and sustainable economic development.

He said the team will focus on attracting new industries such as technology and wellness businesses that “create jobs and attract visitors, all while building the spirit and sense of community in West Windsor.”

Tomar added that responsible fiscal management will be key to delivering services while stabilizing taxes.

Andrew Winters, a relative newcomer to town, said his background in finance

and strategy gives him a fresh perspective on municipal priorities.

“Traffic isn’t just a nuisance; it’s a quality-of-life issue, and we will treat it as such,” Winters said.

He added that smart signal technology, expanded bike routes and greater participation in the Vision Zero safety initiative are among the slate’s goals.

On affordable housing, Singh’s team said they support fulfilling legal obligations but want the process to be transparent and sensitive to existing neighborhoods.

“Affordable housing is misunderstood by too many,” the slate wrote in its joint statement.

“AH is for a diverse population including young professionals, young families, seniors, teachers, EMT workers, firefighters, and police officers. They are integral to our community.”

Both sides also express strong positions on transparency. Marathe said he welcomes resident engagement through social media and direct outreach.

“During my last reelection, an opponent mocked me as ‘Facebook mayor.’ I take that as a compliment and proof of responsiveness,” he said.

Singh’s team, meanwhile, is promising “radical transparency,” including a civic app to report issues and monthly community updates to keep residents informed. On environmental issues, Singh’s slate said it would pursue aggressive open space expansion, green building standards, and stricter flood protections.

The group said, “Sustainability is not a slogan; it’s a responsibility to future generations.”

With early voting approaching, the candidates have been meeting residents at neighborhood events and small gatherings. The two slates had been expected to participate in a community forum on Sept. 28, but the event was canceled after the sides could not agree on its rules. Both campaigns say they are focused on the same goal — making West Windsor a great place to live — even as they differ on the path forward.

“I have a 24-year record of public service,” Marathe said. “I tell it straight about what can and can’t be done and ask voters to judge me by my record.” Singh’s closing message to residents is that “this election is about the future of West Windsor, and what kind of town we want to be.”

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continued from Page 1

In an interview with the the News, following the release of his statement, Aderhold said the scale and breadth of the messaging underscored that this is a comprehensive and widespread effort.

“There’s significant dollars attached to this campaign,” he said. “This is not just like someone trying to make a point locally.”

He said there is a continuing a blitz of ads on billboards, radio, social media and television. Residents have also reported receiving calls and texts as the campaign ramped up.

Aderhold said he believes the effort singles out high-performing districts to seed widespread doubts about the current state of education in public schools.

“If you really want to make a splash, you don’t go after a community like Newark, Patterson, or even Hamilton,” he said. “You go after a WW-P, a Millburn, a Princeton, a Chatham, and you say, ‘Well, those district’s aren’t doing well, so it sows questions about everyone else.’”

certing,” he wrote.

“Rest assured, their campaign has nothing to do with WW-P or our commitment to students,” he said. “Unfortunately, it has everything to do with partisan politics.”

He pushed back on the way proficiency scores from standardized tests are being used by the group to characterize student achievements.

“Students are more than one assessment,” he told the News. “They shouldn’t be the be-all end-all. One test should never define the student’s outcome.”

He said the district tracks growth and uses it to plan strategies, group students, and provide targeted interventions.

He said WW-P employs some 30 interventionists and follows an MTSS model— short for multi-tiered system of support—to give targeted help to struggling students.

‘We understand that the WW-P community is being bombarded by the empty rhetoric of WUCNJ,’ Aderhold said.

According to Aderhold’s statement, district performance “remains strong and amongst the highest within the state of New Jersey and the nation.”

In his written statement, Aderhold called the messaging an insult to students and staff.

“The campaign by WUCNJ insults our students, families, and educators by calling our community and district ‘complacent,’” he said.

“Not only is our school district constantly pushing our practices, but we continue to set the standard for excellence throughout the state,” Aderhold said.

He defended WW-P’s teachers and administrators.

“Our district’s educators are incredibly dedicated to your children and are exceptional in all that they do in service of their students,” he wrote.

Aderhold said confusion among families was a factor in his response to WUCNJ.

“We understand that the WW-P community is being bombarded by the empty rhetoric of WUCNJ and it can be discon-

The district reported that WW-P high school students significantly outperform state and national averages across core indicators.

Recent data included average SAT scores of 647 in reading/writing and 661 in math, advanced placement pass rates of 90% across 3,740 exams with 38% earning a five, and approximately 24% of seniors receiving National Merit recognition.

The district cites graduation readiness levels of 97% in English language arts and 93% in math, far exceeding statewide rates, along with a 96.8% continuation rate for graduates and 664 students earning the Seal of Biliteracy from 2018–2024.

Aderhold said the district’s state test proficiency “substantially exceeds statewide rates in both Mathematics and English Language Arts.”

He noted that 70.2% of WW-P students met or exceeded expectations in math versus 40.2% statewide, and 75.9% met

See DEFEND, Page 8

or exceeded expectations in ELA versus 52.2% statewide.

“The district acknowledges the work that needs to be done to accelerate growth for students not yet meeting state benchmarks,” he wrote. “The district is actively addressing performance gaps and recovery from pandemic impacts.”

He said there has been a “positive rebound” in math since 2022, and that literacy remains “a continuing challenge that the district is actively addressing.”

Aderhold said the majority of students in the fourth-grade example cited by WUCNJ scored at levels three to five, with most “falling into four or five.”

He said multilingual learners and students receiving special education tend to face the greatest challenges—groups the district supports with individualized plans and tiered interventions.

He also referenced mobility—families entering and exiting the district from other communities and countries—as part of the local context that snapshot percentages don’t reflect.

The district cited “new foundational literacy programming” in K–5, pilots of two literacy programs in K–8, adoption of a new K–5 math resource, and expanded tutoring, extended learning, and diagnostics.

Aderhold wrote that “more than 150”

curriculum documents were updated over the summer, and professional development is structured “to support differentiated instruction and equitable access for all learners.”

He said WW-P encourages parents to review state performance reports and district materials online.

“Parents and caregivers should reach out directly to their child’s teacher(s), counselor, or case manager with any questions or concerns regarding grade-level progress,” he wrote.

He also pointed to a scheduled public testing presentation at an October Board of Education meeting.

“I don’t know if (their agenda) is charter schools,” he said. “But I think it’s privatization and voucher. ‘Charter’ means different things in different states, but privatization and voucher usually have the same definition.”

Overdeck rejected that interpretation.

explanations of report card grades and faster return of test results.

Wake Up Call NJ’s website presents the group as a nonpolitical 501(c)(3) that aims to improve all New Jersey public schools through better transparency.

Overdeck said Wake Up Call NJ is ‘entirely dedicated to helping all public school students thrive...’

In both the statement and interview, Aderhold questioned the advocacy group’s motives, financing, and timing.

He said the campaign “is not about WW-P, but about a systematic and targeted political campaign intended to sow division, raise cause for concerns about public education, and lay the foundation for the large movement of privatization and forprofit education.”

She said the group “has nothing to do with privatization or vouchers” and is “entirely focused on improving public education for all students.”

She added, “Educating our children should never be a political issue.”

Overdeck said the campaign is not political and that Aderhold’s characterization is a misunderstanding of its mission.

She said the group is “entirely dedicated to helping all public school students thrive exactly where they are: in public school.”

She noted that Wake Up Call NJ is a bipartisan nonprofit organization, pointing out that co-founder Peter Shulman is a registered Democrat and she is a registered Republican.

Overdeck said she appreciates that Aderhold shared the same state data that WUCNJ did, and she claimed “those data confirm that, despite West Windsor’s stellar performance on some fronts, a quarter to a third of WW-P students are not succeeding.”

She said those numbers represent students “being left behind, and those sizable fractions are not acceptable.”

“Would we accept a fire department that didn’t respond to one-third of calls?” she asked.

She addded that the campaign’s intent is not to discredit successful districts but to highlight where improvement is needed.

“There’s nothing partisan about wanting kids to achieve at or beyond grade level by the end of the school year,” Overdeck said.

Her focus, she added, is ensuring parents “have full transparency of how their students are doing relative to grade level.”

Overdeck said she shares the goal of supporting teachers and families, and that she wants to “ensure parents receive information in real time to make the best decisions for their children alongside their teacher.”

“We’re happy to discuss and support these goals with WW-P any time,” she added. “As we, like you, want your students, and all public school students in NJ, to thrive.”

Overdeck also said Wake Up Call NJ is “calling for key changes to ensure parents know if their children are meeting gradelevel expectations,” including clearer

Meanwhile, Aderhold’s statement questioned the organization’s disclosure of donors and argued the seven-week ad campaign aligns with the run-up to the Nov. 4 general election.

“Someone’s paying a lot of money for advertisements,” he said, adding that the campaign is “about using WW-P in their larger narrative.”

He said WW-P will continue reporting results, updating curriculum, and supporting students who need help while pushing back against messaging he sees as misleading.

“We have families that are willing to ask questions, and they’re involved and they care about their kids’ education,” he said.

Aderhold said his administration strives to keep politics out of day-to-day work. “We work really hard to try to stay out of partisan politics. We’re a public education institute meeting the needs of all. That’s our charge.”

He said that when outside groups attempt to “leverage our community for a larger political message,” the district will “defend itself in a way in which we’re going to name it, we’re gonna call it out, and we’re going to then continue to do the good work that our students and families deserve.”

“Our parents and our board hold us accountable,” he said. “Our kids, our students hold us responsible. And quite frankly, our educators hold our educators accountable. We’re not complacent, we hold ourselves to a high standard, and I’m proud of that work and it deserves to be defended.”

Aderhold opened his written statement with a quotation by George Bernard Shaw: “Never wrestle with pigs. You both get dirty, and the pig likes it.”

In the interview, he elaborated on why . He said WUCNJ is “slinging mud and hoping to elicit a response to sow discontent, and they’re going to bask in it all the way through.”

“I don’t respect anything that they’re attempting here,” he said. “I have no intention of responding to them, because they’re not actually serious about solving the issue. They want to play in the mud with me.”

“Their suggestions don’t amount to a plan to help children,” he added. “That’s not a plan. None of what they’re saying is an actual plan to address individual student needs.”

“By contrast, we have an actual plan that’s comprehensive and that we’re really proud of,” Aderhold said.

Simple, because they don’t want to discuss their record of failure. Get the Facts!

The Singh-Tomar-Winters Plan

NO MORE WAREHOUSES

No more overcrowded developments that reduce open space, clogs our roads, increase road accidents, increases flooding, threaten wetlands, and delivers little tax benefit.

INVEST IN OUR INFRASTRUCTURE

Improve road conditions, fix potholes, and invest in smart traffic solutions for signals and pedestrian safety

TRANSPARENCY AND OVERSIGHT

Launch Civic App for residents to report issues, submit concerns, and receive real-time updates. Improve township website to show where residents tax dollars are being spent. Read our complete plan online www.wwtogether.org/platform

MORE WAREHOUSES & OVER-DEVELOPMENT

They advocate building more warehouses including the largest warehouse in New Jersey, calling it a WIN-WIN for our town, all while paving over our open space and putting more trucks on our roads.

FAILED TO MAKE CRITICAL INVESTMENTS

Our infrastructure is crumbling, our roads are a mess, and they have failed to invest to bring government operations into the 21st century!

LACK OF TRANSPARENCY AND EFFICIENCY

Spending is up over 40% since Marathe took office, but where is it going? It is not being used to improve township services. Do you need a permit? Be prepared to wait months!

Payak has lived in Plainsboro for nearly a decade with his wife, Nazma, of 21 years. Their two daughters attend schools in the District.

Payak earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science and brings more than 22 years of experience as an information technology entrepreneur.

Alongside his professional career, Payak serves on the board of the Walker Gordon Farms HOA, volunteers at PTA events, and is the treasurer of the Millstone River School PTA. He also supports the Plainsboro Food Pantry.

During the pandemic, Payak helped secure and distribute essential supplies, including masks.

Candidate Q&A

The WW-P district is facing reduced state/federal aid and other funding uncertainties, which could affect essential student support services. How would you balance protecting these services with budget constraints, and what cost-saving or revenue-generating ideas do you have?

O’Brien: One of the hardest responsibilities of a Board member is being a good steward of taxpayer dollars while costs of goods, labor, and services routinely rise faster than the levy cap allows. WW-P has

faced this reality directly, planning carefully to protect core instructional programs and essential student support.

That balance requires both fiscal discipline and a commitment to sustaining quality. Unfortunately, districts without similar foresight are now forced into reactive cuts, larger class sizes, reduced arts or counseling, or deferred investments. Our role is to continue forward-looking financial planning, so that even in challenging times, students’ opportunities remain strong, and our community can trust in responsible governance.

Payak: My priority will be to protect essential student support services, including mental health, special education, and academic assistance.

I will work with other Board members on cost-saving measures such as improving energy efficiency, expanding shared services between schools, and leveraging technology to streamline operations. At the same time, we will pursue additional revenue through grants, public–private partnerships and expanded use of school facilities for community programs.

for improvement in non-educational services, we should manage costs carefully to ensure resources are directed to classrooms and student learning. It is equally important to ensure that taxpayers are not asked to carry an unfair burden. Every budget decision will reflect fiscal responsibility while keeping students’ needs at the center of planning.

Given ongoing teacher shortages, particularly in special education, STEM, and bilingual/ESL, what policies or budget priorities would you support as a board member to make WW-P a more attractive and supportive district for high-quality educators?

The primary focus must remain on enhancing education. Where there is room

O’Brien: Teacher shortages are a national challenge, and WW-P must remain a district where educators feel supported and valued. As a Board member, my role is to ensure policies and budgets prioritize competitive compensation, manageable class sizes, and strong professional development. We should also strengthen mentoring and retention programs, particularly in high-need areas like special education, STEM, and MLL, (multi-language learning). Just as importantly, we must foster a culture of respect and collaboration where teachers know their voices matter. By combining fiscal responsibility with thoughtful investment in staff, WW-P can continue to attract and retain the high-quality educators our students deserve.

in addressing shortages. While state certification changes may help broaden applicant pools, we must maintain rigorous expectations for instructional quality. That means investing in mentoring, ongoing professional development, and support systems that help new educators thrive and grow in WW-P. It also requires thoughtful workforce planning to anticipate needs in critical areas like STEM, special education, and MML. By supporting our administration in building strong pipelines and ensuring teachers have the resources to succeed, the Board helps maintain the district’s tradition of excellence while adapting responsibly to changing conditions.

Payak: The district must adapt while maintaining high standards. Although hiring teachers is the responsibility of school administration, I will work with other board members to create policies that streamline the hiring process and ensure rigorous screening. After hiring, we will focus on providing resources and training to help teachers succeed. One practical approach is hiring temporary teachers, offering targeted training, monitoring performance, and then transitioning them to long-term contracts if they meet expectations. With 10 schools in the district, we should also implement policies that allow sharing of specialized staff across schools to maximize resources. The Board can create or amend policies as needed to support these strategies, ensuring flexibility without compromising quality. The district is monitoring shifts in enrollment even while new residential construction is underway. What is your perspective on long-term planning for changing student populations, and how should the board adjust staffing, facility usage, and resource allocation accordingly?

Payak: I will work with other board members to prioritize policies that make WW-P a destination for top educators. While hiring falls under school administration, the Board can create supportive policies and suggest innovative options. This includes competitive compensation, strong mentoring and professional development programs, and reducing unnecessary workload to prevent burnout. We will also support ‘grow-your-own’ programs to develop local talent, partnerships with universities and community colleges for teacher pipelines, and financial incentives for hard-to-fill roles. Leveraging technology and flexible teaching models can help manage staffing gaps. Above all, fostering a positive work culture where teachers feel valued and supported is key to attracting and retaining high-quality educators.

With recent changes to state teacher certification requirements, how should the WW-P board support district hiring and professional development practices to maintain high teacher quality while addressing staffing shortages?

O’Brien: The Board’s role is to ensure hiring and professional development policies balance high standards with flexibility

O’Brien: Residential growth is managed at the township level and cannot oppose development based on the impact of school-age children. The district’s role is to adapt thoughtfully to changing student populations. The district has noticed shifts in enrollment possibly reflecting fewer entry-level housing opportunities and has adapted with initiatives such as full-day kindergarten and adding classes and buses to respond to developing enrollment needs. Going forward, the Board must ensure long-term planning protects manageable class sizes, uses facilities efficiently, and aligns staffing and resources where student needs are growing. By planning responsibly, we can maintain educational quality and provide students with the attention they deserve while adapting to our community’s evolution.

Payak: With approximately 3,600 new residential units planned in West WindsorPlainsboro over the next decade—and about 1,500 nearly ready for occupancy, the district can expect a significant enrollment

O’Brien

increase within the next one to two years. While the 2019 referendum expanded capacity to accommodate 11,000 students, current enrollment remains around 9,000 due to the pandemic, leaving some available space.

As new households move in, however, we must be prepared for rising student–teacher ratios and added pressure on shared facilities. Lunchrooms are already crowded in some schools, so the district must ensure adequate seating and meal schedules to accommodate more students. Similarly, locker availability must be evaluated to make sure every student has access to basic resources as enrollment rises.

Given the high cost of housing in the area, much of the enrollment growth is likely to come from middle and high school students. To stay ahead of these challenges, the Board should closely monitor enrollment trends, adjust staffing proactively, and consider flexible options such as modular classrooms or repurposed spaces. Strategic resource allocation will be critical to maintaining educational quality while balancing fiscal responsibility.

efit from events such as the popular “Destress Fest,” which creates a fun and supportive space to relax and recharge. At the middle school level, a comprehensive counseling curriculum builds social-emotional learning with units on self-awareness, managing emotions, decision-making, healthy relationships, and conflict resolution.

As a Board member, I would ensure these programs receive sufficient staffing and training so counselors can intervene early, reduce large caseloads, and offer group support sessions. I would prioritize policies to review homework loads, encourage mindfulness / wellness breaks, strengthen peer mentoring, and expand options for mental health referrals. Together, these help our students cope, build resilience, and thrive in and out of the classroom.

Given the stresses from school assignments, pressure on students, potential curriculum changes, and overall post-pandemic effects, what policies would you prioritize to support students’ mental wellness, reduce stress, and promote resilience?

O’Brien: WW-P already offers strong supports like the Student Assistance Counseling Program, providing confidential counseling for anxiety, stress, grief, peer relationships, sexual orientation/gender issues, and more. In addition, students ben-

Payak: Addressing mental health across a school district requires a multifaceted approach, as students’ needs vary widely and are influenced by personal, familial, cultural, and community factors. Effective support demands collaboration among the district, school board, parents, and the broader community. Our district offers various resources for students, parents, and educators, including counselors, hotline services, and both in-person and online support systems. Early identification and intervention are crucial. Implementing confidential surveys and focus groups can help establish a baseline for improvement. Tools like KRAs and HIB reporting help detect trend shifts. Above all, fostering an open, inclusive, and stigma-free environment ensures students feel heard and supported. The board should also consider See ELECTION, Page 12

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strategic funding adjustments to address post-pandemic challenges as students advance through their education.

Some community members are concerned about proposals to alter high school curriculum structures (e.g., reducing or modifying exams or weighting, adjusting homework volume) and balancing between rigor and student well-being. Where do you personally believe the district should draw the line between maintaining high academic standards and reducing student stress?

meeting materials and supporting documents are published in advance so families can review and prepare comments. For feedback and accountability, public comment periods at BOE meetings, periodic surveys, and open channels for email or phone contact with administrators should be encouraged.

O’Brien: WW-P has a well-earned reputation for academic excellence, and I believe maintaining high standards is essential to preparing students for future success. At the same time, we cannot ignore the real pressures students feel. In my view, the solution is not to avoid stress by lowering expectations, but to equip students with the coping skills and support they need to manage it. Through counseling, wellness initiatives, and teaching strategies that balance rigor with thoughtful pacing, we can help students build resilience. The goal should be to challenge our students in healthy ways, ensuring they graduate not only academically prepared, but also with the confidence and skills to navigate life’s challenges.

Payak: Our school district has a strong legacy of maintaining high academic standards. One reason families are drawn to the district is the variety of choices offered to students across the full spectrum of academic courses and rigor. Our graduates attend top colleges across the country and are highly sought after for this very reason. At the same time, balancing academic excellence with student well-being requires deeper reflection on the root causes of stress.

For example, we should take a closer look at transitions between key milestones— elementary, middle, and high school—and how students adjust to new expectations at each stage. While there is strong support for high-achieving students and those who need additional help, we must ask: are we doing enough for students in the middle of the learning spectrum?

This requires earlier identification of challenges and proactive outreach to parents when a student may need extra support.

How will you ensure that families are kept informed and consulted about major decisions? What mechanisms should exist for public feedback and accountability?

O’Brien: Families are always welcome at Board of Education public sessions, where agendas are posted ahead of time on the WW-P website. The district maintains a robust communication system through emails, texts, newsletters, the mobile app, and district/school websites to share updates and critical information. Board

Payak: Transparency and open communication are essential for building trust. Most policy decisions are discussed during board meetings, which are live streamed on the district’s YouTube channel so families can watch in real time or view recordings later. Public comment sessions at every board meeting already provide parents with an opportunity to share their concerns, and these should absolutely continue. However, many residents are unaware of these options, so the district should promote them through periodic email reminders.

To strengthen engagement further, I believe the district should host town hall–style sessions once or twice a year to encourage open dialogue. For major decisions, collecting structured feedback— through surveys or forums—will help the board understand community perspectives before finalizing policies. These steps, combined with clear and consistent communication, will enhance accountability and ensure families remain true partners in shaping our schools.

Is there anything I haven’t asked about that you would like to address or see addressed in your upcoming term?

O’Brien: One key point I would like to emphasize is the true role of a school board member. Board members do not come in with personal agendas to “fix” issues. Instead, our job is to act collectively, responding to matters formally brought before the Board. We set policy, oversee the budget, approve curriculum, and hire and evaluate the superintendent. but we do not run the schools day to day.

Individual members have no authority outside of official Board action. In softer terms: effective Board service is about collaboration, planning, and thoughtful oversight, not micromanagement. Our community deserves Board members focused on students’ success, not pushing personal priorities.

Payak: I want to help families, especially those new to the district, understand and access the many programs WW-P offers. Many move here for our excellent schools, yet some, particularly immigrant families, may be unfamiliar with the U.S. education system. While our district provides incredible opportunities, many parents don’t know how to navigate them.

I propose hosting webinars and informational sessions to guide families on available resources and how to support their children. This ensures every student benefits fully from what our schools offer.

We thank our friends, neighbors, and local leaders for their enthusiastic support!

MARATHE GEEVERS CHARLES

Public service is a tough one to do, you get much more criticism than your fair share. I will be voting for team Marathe, Geevers and Charles because they always do what’s best for West Windsor. - Prabhat Tomar

Hemant is a rare public servant—he’s non-ideological and always takes a principled stand on the issues. We’ve known him for two decades. He always puts the best interests of the Township first, even when it requires personal sacrifice. - Alok & Rachna Sharma

Linda gathers opinions from residents throughout town before making a final decision and casting a vote. As President and VP, she prioritized budget responsibility and I appreciate her focus on no municipal tax increases. - Deb Lemeshow

Joe’s selflessness, steady approach, and deep commitment make him an ideal candidate for town council. His involvement in local organizations gives him valuable insight into what matters to our community and what it takes to get things done. - Jim & Katy Coyle

Mayor Marathe is a true leader who prioritizes the needs and well-being of our community. It’s one thing to campaign; it’s another to lead with authenticity, integrity, and a genuine commitment to the community’s future. - Ariane Rimawi

Together, this team has proven their commitment to good governance, transparency, and putting residents first. Let’s continue the progress we have made. Vote Marathe, Geevers, and Charles —leaders who care, listen, and deliver. - Tejinder Gill

Mayor Marathe is kind hearted, humble, and remains calm under pressure. He is always accessible, responsive and he approaches challenges within our community with fairness, honesty and common sense. - Pamela Grund

At a time when America is facing deepening division, I feel an even greater urgency for our local leadership to commit to protecting this community from being torn apart. I am confident that the three candidates Marathe, Geevers and Charles represent exactly this kind of leadership. They care about West Windsor and all of our neighbors, they put West Windsor above any partisan interests, and they are capable of fulfilling my hopes for our home. - Jin Liu

Together, Joe, Hemant, and Linda offer West Windsor a balanced team: new energy, proven experience, and unwavering integrity. They are committed to keeping our township strong, inclusive, and well-prepared for the future. These are the qualities that define Proven Leaders for West Windsor—and I am proud to support them. - Andy Lupo

Join me in voting for Marathe, Geevers, and Charles—proven leaders who will ensure West Windsor remains a thriving, welcoming home for generations to come. - Irfan Ali

Hemant has always listened to my point of view both as a staff member and a long-time resident. His willingness to listen to differing viewpoints is crucial for effective leadership in a diverse community like ours. Linda is approachable and open-minded. She seeks balanced solutions, particularly on issues related to development, open space, and community services. Joe’s enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and proactive stance on civic engagement are commendable. He represents the interests of a new generation in West Windsor. - Gay Huber

Because leadership starts with caring - and no one cares more for West Windsor than this team. - Vasanti Anand

They’re not beholden to anyone, and have no political “favors” to pay back to county or state political figures. Think about how truly unique this is—candidates with no “party bosses” to answer to, who are free to follow their conscience and do what they believe is right. I’m very proud to endorse the Marathe-Geevers-Charles team. Please join me in voting for them! - Martin Whitfield

SportS

Boateng helps WW-P South girls soccer win CVC again

By Justin Feil

Meadow Boateng has added a bit more to her game each year for the High School South girls soccer team.

This year, that has translated into more goals for the senior defender on top of her usually stout defense and vocal leadership. Boateng already had tripled her scoring through the Pirates’ first 10 games with three goals after having one through the first three years of her career.

But Boateng has had big goals every year for herself, just not the kind that go in the goal.

“A big part of my growth is definitely just goal setting,” said Boateng. She started at outside back as a freshman, and then since sophomore year has been the full-time starter at center back for South. Each year, she’s had a new focus in the offseason. Freshman year, it was working on her left foot and getting more technically proficient, but also

knowing where the right pass was and sorting out better movement. After a year on varsity, she turned her attention to getting physically stronger sophomore year on top of continuing to work on her technique. Junior year, she focused on positioning herself so she was always in the right spot to make a play. And this year, she wanted to be more aggressive and work at when she could take smart risks and make offensive runs.

“I feel like all these goals really helped me to get where I am because it’s like I have something I can focus on,” Boateng said. “That’s really what helped me. That’s just how I am where I am today. There’s no stopping, it’s just I have to work from here. I really hope to have the opportunity to play in college.”

Boateng was one of five Pirates players with at least three goals during their 8-5 start that included a perfect 6-0 mark to win the Colonial Valley Conference Valley Division for the second straight season. Her goal scoring is a plus, her main

thing remains defending and anchoring the South defense while fellow senior Maya Montemayor and sophomore Riley Duguay lead the team in scoring.

“She has just been that rock of that defense,” said Pirates coach Elisa Mastroianni. “I’m just picturing the different plays that she’s making over and over again and she hasn’t really scored goals before, but this season she has been able to make runs into our attacking third and she scored three goals this season. So she’s super helpful in that kind of way with her aggression. We put her up on corner kicks and she’s able to attack little ricochets and get them in the net. Her being able to maneuver and dictate where the defense goes with all these moving parts has been super helpful, especially during game days when the coaches can’t point exactly where they need to go all the time.”

Her experience has been a big plus. She is a solid example of goal setting and where it can get a player. She’s evolved

each season, always having big bright moments and now she’s more consistent with everything.

“This year, it really seems like it’s all come together,” Mastroianni said. “She seems when she’s defending, she’s super calm. She rarely makes any kind of rash mistakes, like crazy slide tackles or really aggressive tackles and things like that. She’s super precise with winning the ball back. And then when she does steal the ball, her dribbling and her passing to help us transition has been just so awesome. So from freshman to senior year has completely improved so much.”

Boateng, who also played high end club soccer until the summer before her junior year, is one of six seniors for the Pirates, four of whom start. They came back for their final year with high expectations after last year’s 9-6-2 season in which they were a perfect 6-0 in the CVC Valley Division to win that title. They split their first eight games of 2025 before reeling off

three straight wins that led into finishing with four wins in their final five regularseason games.

“Our energy, having that like yearn to win, and definitely our energy being up has played a huge role in us having a lot of these successes and also just encouraging other people,” Boateng said. “Like for me as a captain, I try to encourage everybody and just keep pushing everybody to their fullest. And once the energy is up, that’s how we get a lot of these good results.”

It’s been up to Boateng and her fellow seniors to lead the team after losing a solid group of leaders to graduation. The chemistry has come together heading into the final month of the season with players this year finding their roles.

“Even though we didn’t really lose a ton of goal scorers, our play was somehow impacted,” Mastroianni said. “So just kind of focusing on that, it took a little bit to get there, but I think we’re in a good place now of just the girls really working together, trusting each other, and creating a good, fun environment at practice that I think has now officially translated onto the field, which has been really awesome to see.”

Boateng has been looking forward to her senior season. Being a captain has

enabled her to share her passion for the game with her younger teammates. Boateng has held herself and her teammates to a high standard.

“It’s been really great,” she said. “I’m just so grateful that I can really fill in that leadership role and prove myself and guide a team that continues to do well and just be there for everyone. I just want to be a good teammate and I’ve grown so much as a person and I feel like just having that leadership role finally, with being a captain, it just means so much to me and I just love guiding my team and helping everybody and just keeping everyone together and just pushing everybody as much as I want to push for the game.”

vocal, and I’ve always guided my teammates, and I’ve always helped my teammates. But now that I actually am a captain, I feel like I have more authority to really help people and push everyone with good intent.”

Playing significantly early in her high school built her confidence. She filled a role in the back and established herself as a reliable defender. Her first two seasons laid the foundation for her growth into a team leader and captain.

“As a captain, I try to encourage everybody and just keep pushing everybody.’

“It felt good to be that force and be that wall and be that for my team, whether we win or whether we lose,” Boateng said. “My performance, my confidence, that’s really what got me to that point.”

helps me to improve so much and just stay on track.”

Boateng is considering studying engineering in college, but she’s not limiting herself. Just as she has broadened her game over the years, she is open to taking on new challenges in the classroom.

“I have so much I want to experience and learn about, which is why soccer can’t be the only thing that I do because injuries can end careers or seasons,” she said. “And that’s one thing I just keep at the back of my head all the time. I’m just really excited for exploring engineering and exploring more, just exploring different courses and classes and things like that.”

Meadow Boateng has always been a big goal setter. It’s helped drive her to become a top-flight defender who factors heavily into the Pirates’ chances to make some waves in the postseason CVC and state tournaments. South was the No. 8 seed for the CVC tournament.

Boateng has always been a vocal presence in the back, and she’s primarily been a defender aside from playing striker in fifth grade. Her vocal leadership is no different. But now as a captain, her voice is even stronger.

“I’m a natural leader,” said Boateng, who is vice president of South’s Black Student Union. “And I’ve always been

Boateng’s goal setting hasn’t just been limited to the soccer pitch. She also employs that mindset in other facets of her life, like prioritizing each academic assignment or how she’ll approach a subject over a timeline.

“It’s definitely something I apply outside of soccer to,” she said. “And I’ve said it’s helped me just immensely. It just

“We are just trying to make the girls as prepared for all different situations as possible,” Mastroianni said. “I think they’re learning now that we’re coming to this second-half of the season, like being able to beat Hopewell and beating Robbinsville I think is really giving them the confidence because me and my assistant coach, we tell them that they can do anything they set their mind to.”

Comprehensive. Academic. Award-winning.

New Jersey deserves nothing less

Two of our hospitals, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, have earned recognition as Best Regional Hospitals, ranking in the top 10 in New Jersey, and in the top 25 in the competitive Mid-Atlantic Region. Our hospitals throughout New Jersey have been recognized for quality in a variety of specialties: cardiac and cancer care, neurology and orthopedic surgery, and more. Learn more at rwjbh.org/usnews.

Travel Talk with Caryn and Aron Packing Tips

On my last trip, the wheels on my suitcase stopped working! Not easy to traverse through a cruise terminal dragging 50 lbs behind you! So this week, I researched diﬀerent styles of suitcases and purchased a bag that I can check. I will need this in December as I am not a carry on only type of traveler for trips of more than 10 days. And that is tip #1 being sure you having right suitcase for the trip you are taking.

Here are some basic packing tips that will apply to all travel, and then a few additional recommendations for cruising, all-inclusive resorts, and driving trips.

Pick the right suitcase. If you are ﬂying, a lightweight suitcase is critical to ensuring you don’t pay extra fees for an overweight bag. Also, be sure of the dimensions of the suitcase allowed by the airlines for both checked and carry-on bags. International airline carry-on size and rules can diﬀer from US rules.

Pack a Day Bag. Great for carrying essentials around the ship, on shore excursions, or just traveling around the town. Plus, use this as your carry-on bag in case your checked bag gets lost or delayed. You can ensure you have at least one change of clothes and the essentials. Include a reﬁllable water bottle as many places no longer have plastic bottles and it’s a great way to ensure you stay hydrated. You can even ﬁnd online great bottle holders so you can be hands free.

Split a suitcase with your Traveling companion. If you are ﬂying with someone else and planning to check a suitcase, put a few outﬁts of yours in their suitcase and vice versa. This way if the airline misplaces a bag, you will still have a few changes of clothing. Unless you want to buy a new wardrobe!

Important Documents and Medicine. Please ensure you pack all important documents, valuables, medicines in your carry on or personal bag. You don’t want to risk losing these items. Also be sure your travel insurance policy number and phone number to call for any issues is easily accessible – in case of lost bags, etc.

Check the destination’s Dress Code. Most cruise lines have detailed dress codes on their website. When in doubt, ask us. Many cruise lines now oﬀer a more simpliﬁed dress code, although some still schedule formal nights, and the number of nights will vary depending upon the length of the cruise. In addition, some restaurants at all-inclusive resorts require long pants for men or other requirements.

Plan your Vacation and Pack accordingly. Are you a lounger or will you be hitting every port ready to walk? Make a list of your activities and pack the additional gear needed so you are not missing out on an opportunity to experience the destination’s culture. Don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes.

Toiletries. Most cruise lines, resorts and

hotels provide the basic toiletries in travel size packs such as shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. Make sure you bring enough travel size items that will carry you through the entire vacation. Consider a hanging bag which can easily be put behind doors. Also, if flying, remember the 3-1-1 rule – all liquids in your carry-on bag must be below 3.4 oz. and fit in one quart-size seethrough bag. If you have larger liquids, they must be in your checked luggage. This includes when returning home – be sure that if you buy any alcohol, perfume, or other liquids they are in your checked bag or fit in your quart bag

As a travel professional, we are your trusted advisor, from the time of our initial meeting, throughout the research, planning and booking process, to the time you leave on your vacation. We are just not an anonymous click on a button and book at trip. We oﬀer you travel tips and guidance throughout the process. But it doesn’t stop there! We are also available 24/7 if you need us while you are travelling. We look forward to welcoming you home and hearing about all the wonderful vacation memories you have created. So, the next time you sit down to discuss your travel vacation plans make sure it is with a travel professional.

There is still time to book your last minute summer and fall travel and now is the time to start planning your winter break getaway. And don’t forget to purchase travel insurance.

Contact us today at 609-750-0807 or cberla@cruiseplanners.com to discuss your travel plans. At Cruise Planners we are Luxury Travel Specialists. We do not charge any additional fees for our vacation planning, and whether you are looking for a Cruise, an AllInclusive Resort Vacation, or a European Land Tour, we will provide you with the exceptional service you should expect from a travel agent. Visit us at www.makingvacationmemories. net to register for either our regular or for our Luxury newsletter to be delivered directly to your inbox and follow us at www.facebook.com/ familycruising. Unlike big online travel sites, Cruise Planners - ABC Family Cruising and Travel delivers the personal touch.

Spirits of the past linger at the Red Lion Inn

PAUL LIGETI

WEST WINDSOR CHRONICLES

Standing near the Washington Road/ Route 1 traffic circle, just behind the AT&T store, is an unassuming structure. Part of the Princeton Baptist Church property, it looks like just an old house. However, this is not any ordinary building — it was, for generations, an early-1800s tavern serving the historic “Penns Neck” community (the neighborhood bisected by Washington Road).

It is also one of the few sites in town listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a brief story of the Red Lion Inn.

This building has multiple bedrooms, two separate staircases, and a slightly offcenter stair hall, presumably to provide more room for public gatherings on the ground floor. Its attic is unusually roomy and accessible, suggesting that it may have hosted less-discerning guests who wanted to save a few pennies when

staying the night. In the basement are beams with bark still on them, and several fireplaces historically heated various rooms on each floor.

The inn was constructed around 1807 by William Kovenhoven, who five years later also donated an adjacent plot of land for the purpose of constructing the Princeton Baptist Church. Inns and churches often operated side-by-side as centers of spiritual, social, and political life, and this was no different.

Kovenhoven’s inn was originally located directly at the eastern corner of the crossroads of Route 1 and Washington Road, facing Route 1. At the time, there was no traffic circle, and both roads were dirt farm lanes.

The first known innkeeper was John Joline, who successfully applied for a tavern license in December 1807. He seems to have been succeeded by George Follet. Both Joline and Follet also owned popular taverns in Princeton and were known for “(dispensing) hospitality and good cheer.”

Follet is said to have hung the sign depicting a red lion outside of each of his inns; thus, although no proof exists that

he, specifically, called his Penns Neck tavern the Red Lion Inn, it was certainly referred to by this name in the late part of the same century.

In 1808, the West Windsor Township Committee, which had previously solely met in the Dutch Neck neighborhood a few miles way, also began meeting in the Penns Neck inn, and would continue to do so on and off for the next several decades.

A list of other innkeepers during this time are said to have included: Kenneth Dey, Elijah Davison, Major Gilbert Giberson, Asher Temple, a man named Donaldson, a widow with the last name of “Jackson,” James Davison, and others.

Some of these individuals also managed a competitor inn across the road (see: WestWindsorHistory.com/ GibersonsTavern).

In 1819, William Kovenhoven formally sold the Red Lion Inn to Asher Temple, a West Windsor Constable. In 1827, due to unpaid debts, his property was seized by Middlesex County and sold to Gooden Hall.

However, Hall appears to have permitted Temple to remain as

innkeeper. Temple also sponsored horse racing in the area. Around this time, the establishment was called the White Horse Tavern.

In 1838, Hall sold the property to William Woodmanse. Following him in ownership were:

1. Voorhes Kovenhoven (starting 1842).

2. Ralph Kovenhoven (starting 1843).

3. Joseph and Sara Taylor (Starting 1848).

4. John S. Cocks (Starting 1852).

5. Wlliam M. Cocks (Starting 1852).

6. Uriah Bosenbury (Starting 1853).

7. Margaret Bosenbury and Henry Trout (starting 185?).

8. Henry Dunn (starting 1855).

9. Margaret and William Wyckoff (starting 1855).

10. John V. D. Konover (starting 1868).

11. Susan and Israel Pierson (starting 1869).

In 1873, the Piersons swapped their inn with that of Noah Reed, who owned the long-gone Princessville Inn (Lawrence Township). Within the next six years, however, Reed was dead, and the inn presumably shuttered.

In 1879, Reed’s estate sold the property to the Princeton Baptist Church, which had long viewed it as a source of “corruption” of the neighborhood’s youth. Its earlier role as a center of community life, elections, auctions, and more had ended under changing times.

The church, undergoing a revitalization of its own, converted the former inn into a parsonage (i.e., an office/home for the pastor). The pastor at the time, L. O. Grenelle, wrote that “this is the next best thing the Church as ever done, (next) to the erection of the house of worship.”

Sometime in the early 1900s, shingles were placed over the parsonage’s clapboard siding. In 1925, it was divided into two duplex apartments.

After Rev. Charles Fredericks arrived in 1927, a furnace and bathroom were added. Perhaps most notably, in 1929, improvements to Route 1 necessitated moving the parsonage about 150 feet southeast, to its current location.

In 1989, the old Red Lion Inn was

accepted into the National Register of Historic Places, along with most of the rest of the Princeton Baptist Church property. And just three years ago, in 2022, and after several years of renovations, the building was repurposed as housing (albeit still owned by the Princeton Baptist Church). It remains one of Penns Neck’s – and West Windsor’s -most historically-significant sites.

To learn more about historic Penns Neck, visit: WestWindsorHistory.com/ PennsNeck

The Historical Society is an allvolunteer nonprofit; all our volunteers donate their free time to document and promote our Township’s history.

There is a lot to celebrate, but we can’t do it without your support. Please consider volunteering and/or donating to help us grow and expand our impact. To learn more, visit: westwindsorhistory. com.

Paul Ligeti is the president of the Historical Society of West Windsor.

The Red Lion Inn in 2022.

VACATION RENTAL

Fort Myers Beach, Fl. Dates are still available 1 br condo on beach. Call for details @ 609-577-8244.

FOR SALE

Mausoleum for sale in Princeton Memorial Park. Two side by side crypts on for sale 1/2 oﬀ. Call 609-220-6635.

SERVICES

F,D, Mason Contractor, Over 30 years of experience. Brick, Block, Stone, Concrete. No job too large or small. Fully Insured and Licensed. Free Estimates 908-385-5701 Lic#13VH05475900.

Are you single? Try us first! We are an enjoyable alternative to online dating. Sweet Beginnings Matchmaker, 215-539-2894, www. sweetbeginnings.info.

LEGAL SERVICES Wills, Power of Attorney, Real Estate, Federal and NJ Taxes, Education Law. House calls available. Bruce Cooke, Esq. 609-799-4674, 609-721-4358.

Guitar, Ukulele and Drum lessons for all. Call Jane 609 510-1400. $25.00 per lesson.

Emergency child care Emergency child care –need a date? At a loss for child care sometimes? Need a few hours to yourself? Hello, I’m Eileen. I taught preschool for 39 years as well as being a clown. Ages 2 1/2 -6 years. 609-477-4268.

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

I Buy Guitars All Musical Instruments in Any Condition: Call Rob at 609-577-3337.

WANTED TO BUY

Wanted: Baseball, football, basketball, hockey. Cards, autographs, photos, memorabilia. Highest cash prices paid! Licensed corporation, will travel. 4theloveofcards, 908-596-0976. allstar115@verizon.net.

Cash paid for World War II Military Items. Helmets, swords, medals, etc. Call: 609-6582996, E-mail: lenny1944x@gmail.com

Cash paid for SELMER SAXOPHONES and other vintage models.609-658-2996 or e-mail lenny1944x@gmail.com

HAPPY HEROES used books looking to buy old Mysteries, Science Fiction, kids series books ( old Hardy boys-Nancy Drew-etc WITH DUSTJACKETS in good shape), Dell Mapbacks - PULP magazines , old role playing stuﬀ, good conditioned pre 1975 paperbacks old COLLIER’S magazine. Call 609-619-3480 or email happyheroes@gmail.com . LOCAL NEWS & EVENTS IN YOUR INBOX WEEKLY!

FREE UPCOMING HEALTH EDUCATION EVENTS

Register by calling 609.394.4153 or register online at capitalhealth.org/events and be sure to include your email address. Zoom meeting details will be provided via email 2 – 3 days before the program date. Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.

Treatment Options for Knee and Hip Pain

Monday, November 10, 2025 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting

Are you experiencing knee or hip pain and are wondering what to do next? DR. ARJUN SAXENA, a fellowship trained and board certified orthopaedic surgeon and director of the Marjorie G. Ernest Center for Joint Replacement, will explain how your knees and hips work and discuss current treatment options for pain, from arthroscopy to joint replacement.

Treatments for Liver Metastases + A Cancer Prevention Diet

Monday, November 17, 2025 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting

Join DR. CATALDO DORIA, medical director of Capital Health Cancer Center and director of its Liver Center of Excellence, to learn how liver metastases of any kind can be successfully treated with a combination of therapies. MELISSA PHELPS, a registered dietitian and board certified oncology nutrition specialist at the Capital Health Cancer Center, will also share evidencebased nutrition recommendations to reduce your cancer risk.