Montgomery Newsletter, Winter 2013

Winter 2016
T h e T ow n sh i p of
Municipal and county Newsletter Mon tg om e ry
PAGE 1
C ou n t y of S om e r s e t
Municipal Building, 2261 Van Horne Road (Route 206), Belle Mead, New Jersey 08502
Tel (908) 359-8211, TDD (908) 359-8211 Website: www.twp.montgomery.nj.us
Municipal and Community Newsletter
Winter 2016
ROAD MAINTENANCE: A PRIORITY IN 2015 AND BEYOND
Other roadway work upcoming for 2016:
As your elected officials and fellow residents, we have
Montgomery has completed repair work on Cherry Valley
noted and taken action to address the impacts to our roadways
from the last two winters of severe weather. We have made Road throughout its entire length this year, but a project to
it our goal to devote additional funding to road repair and reconstruct the section from Cherry Hill Road to the west
reconstruction. Much planning is always involved; major end of Jefferson’s curve is in the design and permitting stage.
road reconstruction projects require time and patience. A 2016 bid date is anticipated, pending DEP permits and
But through the hard work of our Montgomery Township easement acquisitions. Cherry Valley Road from Rt. 206 to
Engineering and Public Works departments, progress has the s-curve was reconstructed a few years back. Previous and
been made and our investment is yielding results. The current phases are a 50-50 partnership between Montgomery
following listed road work represents over nine miles and Princeton.
While the Montgomery Department of Public Works
of new pavement and over four miles of patching and
(DPW) has completed base repairs to Viburnum Drive, the
repairs to date.
roads of this neighborhood, including Sassafras Court and
Within the last year, the following Montgomery
Spike Rush Court, are in need of drainage improvements.
roads have been repaired, reconstructed, chip sealed,
overlaid, or milled and paved along their entire length Design and permitting work is ongoing and a 2016 bid date
is anticipated.
or a section: Dead Tree Run Road and Pin Oak Road are scheduled
Bedens Brook Rd., Burnt Hill Rd., Cherry Hill Rd.,
Cherry Valley Rd., Dutchtown-Zion Rd., Fairview Rd., for milling and paving next summer. Bridgepoint Road,
Green Ave., Harlingen Rd., Hillside Terr., Hollow Rd., from Dead Tree Run Road to Opdikes Mill Road, is another
project in its design and permitting phase with
Mountain View Rd., Mill St., Opossum Rd.,
plans for bidding the work in 2016.
Reading Blvd., Rolling Hill Rd., and Servis Rd.
A MESSAGE
Finally, Princeton Avenue, between Mt.
Neighborhood road base repairs, overlay
FROM THE
Lucas Road and the Rocky Hill border is being
work, and sidewalk repairs are currently
TOWNSHIP
recommended by the township engineer this
ongoing for the following roads:
COMMITTEE
month for milling and paving work, along
Charleston Drive, Dogwood Lane (now
with sidewalk repairs on Blue Spring Road and
completed), Duncan Road, Hillcrest Road
Salisbury Road. Please note that all future work is
(now completed), Norfolk Way, Platz Drive
(no sidewalk), Richmond Drive, S. Wiggins Lane, and subject to budget approval and timing is approximate.
Road maintenance is an ongoing item on every Township’s
Williamsburg Court.
checklist and it should be. We hope you agree that we are
County Road and Bridge Work
There are several county roads in Montgomery. Through wisely investing Montgomery tax dollars when we make the
our partnership with Somerset County, repaving of Belle roadways in Montgomery a priority - for the driving safety
Mead-Griggstown Road from Rt. 206 to Willow and all of and ease of all our residents and the motoring public.
Another priority is to keep roadways clear of snow in
Dutchtown-Harlingen Road – both county roads - has been
completed. Mercer County is also currently replacing the the winter. To do this we count on the cooperation of our
Cherry Valley Road Bridge (or culvert) at the west end of residents in certain ways. Please read the article, “Snow
Plowing: What We Do, How Residents Can Help” on pg.
Cherry Valley Road.
13. Thank you!
Inside This Issue . . . .
We wish each and every Montgomery household
a warm and enjoyable holiday season!
Recreation Newsletter......... Click to go to Link
Montgomery Township Committee:
Montgomery FunFest.................................Pg. 2
Christine Madrid, Mayor cmadrid@twp.montgomery.nj.us
Addition to Sourland Preserve..............Pgs. 4-5
Ed Trzaska, Deputy Mayor etrzaska@twp.montgomery.nj.us
Montgomery Business Directory...............Pg. 6
Patricia Graham, Committeewoman pgraham@twp.montgomery.nj.us
New Sign at Van Horne Park.....................Pg. 7
Rich Smith, Committeeman rsmith@twp.montgomery.nj.us
Sustainable Jersey Certification.......... Pgs. 9-10
Chris Sugden, Committeeman csugden@twp.montgomery.nj.us
Winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter PAGE 2
The organizers of the first Montgomery FunFest on Sept. 13th were honored by the Montgomery Twp. Committee on Thurs.,
Oct. 1. Pictured are (l to r): Heidi Shegoski - EDC, Montgomery Twp. Committeeman Chris Sugden, Arun Mani - EDC,
Anthony Gatto - EDC, Kevin Baez - EDC, Montgomery Twp. Committeeman Rich Smith – EDC Liaison, Todd Royer – EDC
Chairman and Co-chair of FunFest, Jean Robinson - MBA Treasurer and Co-chair of FunFest, Montgomery Mayor Christine
Madrid, Lorette Pruden - Chair MBA, and Alicia Schwarcz - EDC and FunFest Manager of Volunteers. Other event organizers
thanked in the resolution who were not able to be present are: Joan Kettlekamp, Saul Wendroff, Jane Gore, Cory Wingerter,
Peter DiPersia, Frank Luis, and Ken and Steve Nierenberg of Princeton Airport.
MBA/EDC FUNFEST IS A HIT IN MONTGOMERY TWP.
The new “Montgomery FunFest” was a resounding success Sunday, Sept. 13th at Princeton Airport.
More than a hundred business and non-profit groups greeted residents, providing giveaways, kids rides,
games, crafts and more. There were vintage cars & airplanes on display, even helicopter rides. Local
Montgomery talent entertained from 3 stages and attendees enjoyed great food and beverage choices.
Attendance was in the thousands.
This event was organized by the Montgomery Business Association with support from the Montgomery
Economic Development Commission, a volunteer committee of the municipality whose goal is to promote
Montgomery as an excellent business location. The purpose of the event was to support local businesses
and strengthen the community spirit of Montgomery Township.
The event organizers and hosts were recently honored by the Montgomery Twp. Committee (see photo).
For-profit or not-for-profit organizations or volunteers interested in participating in next year’s FunFest can find
out more by emailing the EDC at edc@twp.montgomery.nj.us or the MBA at info@shoplocalmontgomery.com.
Link to more event photos: http://www.twp.montgomery.nj.us/gallery/montgomery-funfest/.
Winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter Lorette Pruden, Montgomery Business Association
President (l) and Township Committeeman Rich Smith
(r) assisting Robin Williams (center), the new owner of
Wine & Design in cutting the ribbon to open her new
store in Village Shopper 3 Sat., 9-26-15. Wine & Design
is a new art studio in Montgomery. Wine and Design
offers fun painting classes for all ages and experience
levels. Their artists will guide you through the process
of creating your own masterpiece at a public class or
by hosting your own private party. More info may be
found at www.wineanddesign.com/princetonnj or email
princetonnj@wineanddesign.com.
PAGE 3
The ribbon was cut Sat., Nov. 7 at MOOYAH Burgers,
Fries & Shakes in the Village Shopper III, 1378 Route
206 in Skillman. In addition to Deputy Mayor Ed Trzaska,
attendees (pictured L to R) included: Committeman-elect
Mark Conforti, Mayor Christine Madrid with daughter,
Cassie, co-owner Andrew Candelino, franchise developer
Tommy Mascia, and co-owner Jerry Candelino. MOOYAH
is owned and operated by a father and son team along with
30 employees. Son Andrew, 23, of Mountainside, NJ worked
at the first NJ MOOYAH in Garwood and got to experience
firsthand with what a different burger experience this fast
casual “better burger” brand from Plano, Texas is offering.
Free tax preparation starts February at Community Center
The AARP and the Somerset County Retired Senior Volunteer Program Tax Aide program provides free
federal and state tax preparation services with special attention for seniors & lower income residents.
Volunteer tax counselors are trained and certified by the IRS to assist Somerset County residents and workers
in preparing their federal and New Jersey income tax returns. These volunteers are ready to help residents of
all ages prepare their tax returns. The volunteer training covers all aspects of personal income tax with special
emphasis on matters affecting seniors and lower income residents. Volunteers will also assist seniors prepare
their PTR (senior property tax freeze) applications. Last year this free service completed over 2100 returns in
Somerset County. Our Montgomery site completed 385 of those returns.
Tax returns can be e-filed to assure a safer, more timely refund.
This service will be available at the Otto Kaufman Community Center in Skillman beginning February,
2016 through April 15, 2016 by appointment only. More details, including the telephone number for an
appointment, will be given January, 2016.
Like working with numbers?
Volunteer tax aids are also needed. AARP Tax Volunteers interact with clients by filling out tax returns. Even
if you don’t have accounting or tax preparation experience, becoming a Tax Volunteer may be right for you.
AARP provides training in tax law procedures, preparing tax forms, and using tax preparation software. If you
are interested in becoming a volunteer tax aide please contact Laurie Beckhorn at the Somerset County office,
beckhorn@co.somerset,nj,us, (908) 704-6338.
Winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter PAGE 4
Freeholders & New Jersey Conservation Foundation
Announce Addition to Sourland Mountain Preserve
An Oct. 23 closing was held on 29 acres of land in Montgomery Township being deeded to the Somerset
County Open Space program by landowner Bryce Thompson. The acquisition was completed through
a partnership with New Jersey Conservation
Foundation.
“We are excited to be working once again
with New Jersey Conservation Foundation,”
said Somerset County Freeholder Director Mark
Caliguire. “The preservation of Mr. Thompson’s
property continues the county’s aggressive
preservation efforts of environmentally significant
lands within the Sourland Mountain region.”
New Jersey Conservation Foundation secured an
option agreement to purchase a total of 30 acres
from Mr. Thompson, which was transferred to
the county. The county anticipates closing on the
remaining 1-acre parcel by the end of the year.
“We’re delighted to partner with Somerset
County to preserve land in the Sourland Mountains,” said Michele S. Byers, executive director of New
Jersey Conservation Foundation. “The Sourland Mountain Preserve is a wonderful place to hike and
enjoy nature, and we’re happy to see it expanded
with these 30 additional acres.”
The property will remain largely in its natural,
wooded state and the county will consider passive
uses most appropriate for the health and public
enjoyment of the land.
Located along County Route 601, the property is
contiguous to other open space lands acquired by
Somerset County in recent years and continues the
preservation of environmentally sensitive lands
within the Sourland Mountain region. Cruser
Brook, a 1-mile long stream within the Raritan
River drainage basin, traverses the property.
Preservation of Cruser Brook and other water
courses is critical for the enhancement of surfacewater quality and for preserving the environmental
health of water bodies, many of which feed public
drinking-water supplies. In addition, there are
the scenic and recreational opportunities that the
region’s streams and rivers provide.
The Sourland Mountain region is an expansive,
20,000-acre continuous green swath of intact
forest and farmland spanning parts of three largely
developed central New Jersey counties. It extends
(continued next page)
Winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter PAGE 5
(continued from previous page)
from the central part of Hillsborough Township, Somerset County, southwest to the Delaware River
in West Amwell, Hunterdon County, and Hopewell Township, Mercer County, supporting many rare
plant and animal species, and providing nesting and migratory stopover habitat for over 100 species of
migratory birds.
Somerset County began preservation
in the Sourland Mountains region
in Hillsborough and Montgomery
Townships in the early 1970s. With
the addition of the Thompson property,
the Preserve is nearing 6,000 acres,
making it the largest park in Somerset
County’s 14,200-acre park system.
The Far Hills-based New Jersey
Conservation Foundation, which
preserves open space and farmland
throughout the state, is working to
protect additional acreage in the
Sourland Mountains.
To stay up to date with Somerset County events and information, sign up for free email alerts at
www.co.somerset.nj.us/subscribe.html or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
Volunteer residents, Rutgers students and employees from Johnson & Johnson take part in a volunteer tree planting at Somerset
County’s Skillman Park on October 23, resulting in 40 new trees along Rock Brook, which help improve water quality, prevent
erosion by stabilizing the streambank and floodplain, and provide habitat for wildlife. The planting was organized by the
Township’s Open Space Committee, Montgomery Friends of Open Space and Somerset County Park Commission.
Winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter PAGE 6
Montgomery Business Directory- Ad Deadline 12/15
IN THE C
I
THE TOW
N
OM D
County Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Day
OMERY
TG ERSET
New This Year – Ads will be in color!
The 2016 Montgomery Business Directory will be the third annual publication. It is
IP OF MO
SH TY OF N
mailed to every home in Montgomery and is distributed to local businesses and community
N
S
OU
RPORATE
O
venues such as Shoprite, Rocky Hill Library and the Otto Kaufman Center. Response has
NC
SEAL
been very positive! Families use it as a year round resource. The Otto Kaufman Center says
FEBRUARY 21 ,
1798
that new families coming into the community love to have it as a resource. The deadline is
NE
W JERSEY
December 15th for distribution February 2016. Sign up today to advertise in the directory!
Have an ad ready: email to: axmani@comcast.net
Please make sure it is in the following format:
5”8”- EPS file, JPEG’s can work but may have clarity issues.
Photos can be in JPEG format, again depending on the quality of the resolution.
Also include separately: business name, phone number, email contact, address, business description,
website, social media accounts, business owner’s name, business category- i.e. restaurant, pet supplies,
coffee shop, etc., addition info or comment.
Do not have an ad: email the following information to: axmani@comcast.net
business name, phone number, email contact, address, business description, website, social media accounts,
business owner’s name, business category- i.e. restaurant, pet supplies, coffee shop, etc., addition info or
comment.
If you have logos, then please provide them in EPS file. JPEG may work depending on resolution. Photos
can also be in JPEG but depending on quality of resolution they may be omitted from the ad.
Make check payable to ‘Montgomery Township Economic Development Commission’ for $250. Send
completed information with payment to:
Montgomery Township Municipal Offices- EDC
2261 Van Horne Road - Route 206 North
Belle Mead, NJ 08502
Questions: e-mail: axmani@comcast.net
March 19, 2016, 9am - 2pm
Bernards Township Public Works Garage
277 South Maple Ave.
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
No registration is necessary, but proof of Somerset County residency is required. The program is free to
county residents.
Household hazardous waste includes banned or outdated pesticides, antifreeze, transmission fluids, brake
fluids, wet-cell car batteries, motor oil (2-gallon maximum), fluorescent tubes and compact fluorescent light
bulbs, ammonia-based cleaners, gasoline, kerosene, mercury switches, oil-based paints, pool chemicals,
propane tanks and rechargeable and button-cell batteries.
For more information on types or quantities of materials accepted, contact the Somerset County Division
of Solid Waste Management at (908) 231-7031 or email solidwaste@co.somerset.nj.us or visit the Somerset
County website at www.co.somerset.nj.us/recycle for programs and information.
Winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter PAGE 7
Girl Scout Designs New Interpretive Sign at
Van Horne Park
Aayushi Doshi, a Girl Scout Senior from troop 60949 of service unit 75 recently
completed her Gold Award project benefiting the local community. Aayushi’s
project involved enhancing Van Horne Park by installing interpretive signage along
the walking path. Van Horne Park is jointly managed by Montgomery Township
and Rocky Hill Borough.
Aayushi designed two 3 feet x 4 feet aluminum signs and installed them back-toback on the wooden kiosk located at the western entrance of the park near the playground. One sign reflects interesting
information on the history of the park and the sign on the other side displays information and pictures of the park’s
distinctive flora. The entire project took about 120 hours and she led other Girl Scouts and a couple of her brother’s
Boy Scout troop members in cleaning and staining the kiosk and installing the
signs. Ms. Lauren Wasilauski, Montgomery Township OpenSpace Coordinator,
was Aayushi’s project advisor and particularly assisted her with this project. She is
sincerely thankful for the help of Ms. Wasilauski, the Shade Tree Committee and the
Van Harlingen Historical Society for helping her with research and resources.
This project was a great way to provide on-going historical and environmental
information about the park to educate township residents, park visitors and children
who participate in recreational activities at the
park. When the park was first opened, historical information was printed on paper
and posted on the kiosks, but these signs did not last. These new interpretive metal
signs are highly durable and sustainable over the long-run.
The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest award that Senior and Ambassador Girl
Scouts may earn. Earning the Gold Award requires many hours of planning and
implementing a challenging and innovative project that engages others and has a
lasting impact on the community with an emphasis on sustainability.
Aayushi is currently a junior at Montgomery High School. She has been an active
member of Girl Scouts since first grade and also successfully completed Bronze and
Silver Award Projects.
Montgomery Reminder on Leaf & Yard Clean-up
Stormwater regulations do not permit leaves/branches/brush to be placed in the road or in storm drains. We must
ensure the safety of motorists, cyclists and pedestrians who travel Township roadways and sidewalks.
Montgomery residents are responsible for proper disposal of their leaves/branches. Montgomery Township does not
provide a leaf disposal program. Here are some guidelines:
• Please remember to keep leaves out of storm drains and out of the street.
• Follow Montgomery’s yard waste disposal rules for tree branch drop-off. Check the Container Facility and Bulletins
pages of the twp. website at www.montgomery.nj.us or contact Public Works at 908-874-3144.
• Use a mulching mower that recycles grass clippings & leaves into the lawn.
• Use leaves as a resource for compost. For tips on how to compost, go to the Public Works section of Montgomery’s
website. Somerset County also has large compost bins available for $50 each, a considerable discount to retail price.
They also provide seminars twice/year on how to compost. Contact the County Office of Recycling at 908-231-7109.
If you see a violation of State stormwater regulations such as materials being dumped into stormwater drains,
call the Montgomery Township Stormwater Hotline at (908) 281-6525. Much more information is available at
http://www.twp.montgomery.nj.us/departments/engineering/stormwater-management/
Winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter PAGE 8
the trophy home in a close call. Everyone won
with the delicious lunch that followed and had
lots of great stories to tell until next year! The
event was organized by both senior centers and
sponsored by the Montgomery/Rocky Hill and
Hillsborough Rotary Clubs.
Many more photos at
https://flic.kr/s/aHskndMft1.
‘Minute to Win It’ is a Hit with
Seniors & Students!
It is hard to describe the excitement and spirited
fun when Hillsborough and Montgomery Seniors
duked it out, gameshow style, for a 6th year of
“Minute to Win It” Oct. 23rd. OKCC gym was
packed and seniors were joined in competition
this time by two student classes – Mrs. Weiner’s
4th graders (Montgomery) vs. Mrs. Wright’s 4th
graders (Hillsborough). Also new this year, Mayor
Christine Madrid served as a referee, along with
Hillsborough Administrator Anthony Ferrera.
Beloved gym teacher Johnny Rooney cracked
jokes as the master of ceremonies, bantering
with Senior Center Director Denise Crowley who
still managed to calmly explain the rules. Timed,
competitive tasks included being the first team to
spin all the tp off rolls; remove all tissues from a
box one-by-one; or ‘applestack’ six apples. And
although Hillsborough’s side battled valiantly and
waved mops and signs saying, “Mop the Floor
with Montgomery”, this year Montgomery took
2015 Minute to Win It organizers/supporters included: Back
row, L to R:Denise Crowley, Montgomery Sr. Ctr. Dir.; John
Shockley, Pres., Hillsborough Rotary; Anthony Franchini,
Hillsborough Rotary; Sharon Prosinski, Montgomery/
Rocky Hill Rotary, Janet Tamari, Hillsborough Sr. Ctr.
Mgr.; Kris Hadinger, Montgomery/Rocky Hill Rotary;
Saeko Kurayama, Montgomery/Rocky Hill Rotary;
Japanese Exchange Student; Christine Madrid, Mayor
of Montgomery Twp.; Anthony Ferrera, Twp. Admin. of
Hillsborough; George Jarvis, Montgomery/Rocky Hill
Rotary, Joe Horner, Hillsborough Rotary Front Row, sitting,
L to R: Representative participating seniors: Montgomery
Senior Phylis Poccia and Hillsborough Senior Tony Fusco.
Cars must be removed from
streets during snowfall
As winter is approaching the Department of
Public Works is gearing up for winter storms,
installing snow fence and preparing our salting
trucks and snowplows for winter duty.
Please remember that Township ordinances
prohibit the parking of vehicles on streets and
roads when they are snow covered. Please help our
Public Works Department plow snow as quickly as
possible to insure the safety of our motoring public.
Remove all cars from streets and roads when snow
begins to fall. Thank you!
Winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter PAGE 9
Montgomery Achieves
Sustainable Jersey recertification
Montgomery Township has once again met the rigorous requirements to achieve
Sustainable Jersey certification. Montgomery is one of 48 towns that have attained
certification in 2015 and was honored at the Sustainable Jersey awards Tuesday,
November 17th in Atlantic City. Environmental Commission Chair Mary Reece
accepted the award on behalf of the Township. This is Montgomery’s second
successful renewal since it was first certified in 2009.
“Montgomery is pleased to have once again surpassed the high bar of environmental
achievement defined by the Sustainable Jersey certification program. Our residents want the healthy, sustainable
community that Montgomery offers and we pledge to continue to meet or exceed their expectations,” said Mayor
Christine Madrid. “Thank you to our Green Team for all they do to track our town’s progress, help Montgomery
meet its goals, and bring forward new ideas!” she added.
To become Sustainable Jersey certified, a Township must submit documentation to show it had completed
a balance of required sustainability actions, meeting a minimum of 150 action points. Montgomery Township
completed 245 points worth of action items this round. In addition, each certified community must authorize a
“green team,” as Montgomery has, and complete at least two out of eleven priority action options. Montgomery
chose three priority actions: 1) coordinating with the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office to offer a prescription drug
disposal at the annual Earth Day Fair and Fall Festival, 2) conducting a diversity survey of the Township’s boards,
committees and commissions, and 3) having sustainable land use practices in place which guide development in
the Township.
“Becoming Sustainable Jersey certified is a significant achievement,” said Randall Solomon, co-director of
Sustainable Jersey. “The 189 newly certified or re-certified towns demonstrate leadership and are a testament to
how much we can accomplish toward the long-term goal of a sustainable New Jersey.”
This is the Township’s third certification in the Sustainable Jersey program; Montgomery was certified in the
very first year of the Sustainable Jersey program in 2009, and renewed its certification again in 2012.
Other action items completed by Montgomery include: having an active Environmental Commission that hosts
the annual Earth Day Fair; purchasing green maintenance equipment such as the solar-powered trash compactors
installed at several parks and trailheads; installing solar
panels at the Otto Kaufman Center; and tree planting
programs led by the Shade Tree Commission. The
Township’s environmentally-progressive ordinances
also garnered points; the Township has ordinances to
protect trees during development, regulate wind turbine
installations, allow for housing clustering to protect
natural resources, and require new developments to
consider green design elements. Long-range planning
for farmland preservation, methods to increase the
amount of tree cover, and considering all users
(pedestrians, cyclists and motorists) when planning road
projects were also awarded points. Montgomery Township’s participation in Sustainable
Left to right: Montgomery Twp. was awarded bronze level
Jersey
makes it eligible for grants and other resources
renewal of their Sustainable Jersey 3 year certification at
such as training and seminars. In 2013, the Environmental
the League of Municipalities Conference in Atlantic City
Commission received a $10,000 grant from Sustainable
in November. Randall Solomon, Co-Director, Sustainable
Jersey for a bicycle safety pilot program. With the grant
Jersey; Richard Dovey, Chairperson, Sustainable Jersey
Board of Trustees; Mary Reece (accepting the award
funding, the Commission in 2014 purchased four bike
for the Twp.), Montgomery Environmental Commission
racks for installation at Township facilities and local
Chair; Donna Drewes, Co-Director, Sustainable Jersey;
shopping centers, and provided more than 275 bike
Kieran Tintle, Area Manager, JCP&L
(continued next page)
Winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter PAGE 10
(continued from previous page)
helmets and 375 bike lights to township children and adults who cycle to their jobs.
“The members of the Montgomery Township Environmental Commission/Sustainable Montgomery are proud
to have been one of the first certified communities in NJ and proud to receive this third bronze award. The
activities and events which have contributed to this recognition have helped to create a sustainable future for our
township,” said Chair Mary Reece.
There are now 430 participating Sustainable Jersey towns in New Jersey. Certified towns excel in areas such
as improving energy efficiency and health and wellness, reducing waste, sustaining local economies, protecting
natural resources and advancing the arts.
About Sustainable Jersey
Sustainable Jersey is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that provides tools, training and financial incentives
to support communities as they pursue sustainability programs. Currently, 76 percent, or 430 of New Jersey’s 565
municipalities are participating in the municipal certification program.
For more information on Sustainable Jersey, go to their websites at www.SustainableJersey.com and www.
SustainableJerseySchools.com.
Speaker Gus Dante of Rolling Thunder is pleased to be presented with a hand-made pin honoring all veterans for their service by
Girl Scout Siri Raghunayakula of Montgomery Troop 61215 at the 2015 Veterans Day Observance at the Memorial at Montgomery
Veterans Park 11/11/15. For more event photos, go to: https://flic.kr/s/aHskofpSn8. To learn more about the Memorial, go to
www.montgomeryveteransmemorial.com.
Winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter PAGE 11
SHOP LOCAL THIS HOLIDAY:
SAVE & SUPPORT OUR BUSINESSES
The Montgomery Economic Development Commission, Environmental
Commission and Sustainable Montgomery encourage Montgomery residents
to remember our local shop owners this holiday.
Shopping in town is convenient; it saves time and gasoline. It’s economical
and environmentally friendly when you avoid longer trips, prevent emissions
and purchase locally-made and locally-grown products. In this way you can
support the businesses which support our community – whether by sponsoring a baseball team or allowing a
community flyer to be posted in their shop window. What’s good for local business is good for all of Montgomery.
Look for an on-line directory of Montgomery businesses at:
http://www.twp.montgomery.nj.us/about-montgomery/economic-development/business-directory/.
This listing is free and available to any Montgomery business. Please email:
planning@twp.montgomery.nj.us for further information. (See Pg. 6 for the printed & mailed directory.)
There’s more available in town than you think!
FREE RABIES VACCINATION CLINIC FOR DOGS & CATS
Sponsored by Montgomery Township Health Department/Animal Control
Protect your pet (and your community)!
Saturday, January 23, 2016
Public Works Garage
Located on Harlingen Road in Belle Mead
DOGS: 9:00 am – 10:30 am
CATS: 10:30 am-12:00 noon
Dog & Cat licenses will also be available for purchase that day:
$20 for a neutered dog, $23 for non-neutered dog,
$10 for a neutered cat; $15 for a non-neutered cat
cash or check please.
For Safety’s sake—
Please, no children under age 7.
Dogs must be on a short, sturdy leash—No retractable leashes!
Use of a soft muzzle is encouraged.
Dogs must be under control of an adult at all times.
Cats must be in a carrier.
For more information, call Montgomery Township Animal Control 908-359-4308.
New Police Officer Sworn In
Jesse Peterson, 25 of Branchburg was sworn in as Montgomery’s
newest police officer during the November 5th Township
Committee meeting. Mr. Peterson is a graduate of Somerville
High School and Moravian College in Bethlehem, PA. He is the
son of Pete and Laurie Peterson. Mr. Peterson will be attending
the Mercer County Police Academy which begins later this
month. Congratulating Officer Peterson are (L to R): Township
Committee members Pat Graham, Chris Sugden, Ed Trzaska
(Deputy Mayor), and Rich Smith.
Winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter PAGE 12
Message From the Shade Tree Committee
Time to Protect Your Trees
Now is a good time to protect your trees,
especially young, vulnerable trees
Native trees, and non-native trees that are adapted for our climate, don't need much protection
against the cold, but a good 3-4” layer of mulch will make sure that the roots are protected from
ice and frost heaving. Just make sure to keep the mulch about four inches away from the trunk.
In winter, animals can be a threat to your young trees. Starting at the beginning of September, mature male deer will
rub their antlers against small trunks, shredding the tender, thin bark. This is called buck rubbing, and if too much bark is
removed the tree will die. Protect against this threat with four-foot high wire fencing. The fencing can be fairly close to the
trunk, but make sure it isn't tight, because the trunk needs room to grow. You may have to remove the fencing and replace
it with a larger fence as the tree grows. If the tree or shrub has low branches, they might prevent the deer from reaching
the trunk, but then you'll have to worry about the deer eating the twigs. A wire fence five feet tall around the drip line of
the tree will protect against this threat, and you will want to leave it on all year. Don't forget to remove vines that grow up
the fencing, because they'll soon grow up the branches of the tree and strangle it.
Rabbits and mice pose another threat to shrubs and young trees in winter. There isn't much for them to eat when there
is snow cover, and they get hungry enough to eat tender young bark. You can keep them away by placing a plastic sleeve
around each trunk. Be sure and remove it in the spring, because it can keep the bark wet after rainstorms, and heat and
moisture together can cause rotting. Alternatively, you can use 1-inch chicken wire, which has holes small enough to
discourage the rodents and doesn't cause the bark to rot in warm weather. It should be at least two feet high, because the
animals can climb up on the snow and reach higher than you expect.
ARBORETUM NEWS: The Shade Tree Committee would like to thank Rich Mercurio for the nice job of mulching
in the Montgomery Arboretum that his firm, Green Valley Landscapes, did as a free service to the town. Thanks also to
Mark Halper of Cornell Farms for the donation of the woodchip mulch.
For more information on mulching see: http://www.twp.montgomery.nj.us/twpcommittee/Mulching.pdf.
Or write to: shadetreecommittee@twp.montgomery.nj.us.
The Shade Tree Committee is charged with the planting, care and preservation of public trees on the Township's streets
and in its Arboretum, parks and public areas, like the Otto Kaufman Center. It advises the Township on matters relating
to tree policy, including review of development applications. The Committee provides on-going advice to Township
residents and officials concerning the planting, care and preservation of shade and ornamental trees. The Committee
collaborates with the Parks Department, Montgomery's schools, scouts, local businesses, and other Township committees
on a variety of environmental and education projects, including its annual Arbor Day program for third graders.
Holiday Sing-Along!
Please join us for a festive celebration of the December holidays featuring a sing-along, tree lighting &
refreshments. Our festivities will once again feature the music of Pastor Tony GodLefski. He’ll provide music
on the piano and accordion, and lead everyone in joyous singing. He’ll be assisted by Steve Heckel, a choir
member at the Montgomery United Methodist Church, where Pastor Tony is Senior Minister. Date: Monday,
December 7 Time: 7 – 8 pm Location: OKCC Senior Center Pictures with Frosty the Snowman Remember a
camera & flashlight! Call the Recreation Department at (609) 466-3023 for further info!
Santa’s Calling!
Santa will call the children in town to wish them a happy holiday on Tuesday & Wednesday evening, December 15 &
16 from 6:30 – 8:30 pm. This activity is for kids, ages 2-8 who believe. Forms for Santa will be available at the Recreation
Department & on the Recreation website in early December (www.leaguelineup.com/montgomeryrecreation). Please
return them to our office no later than Dec 10th so we can forward them to the North Pole! Santa really needs your
help! Last year Santa spoke to over 700 children in our community! Please consider volunteering a few hours to help
Santa — call 609-466-3023. Thank you very much!
Winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter PAGE 13
Snow plowing:
what we do, how residents can help
When it comes to clearing township roads when snow storms hit, there’s more that is logistically challenging
than you might think. Residents play an important role; your cooperation and patience are both needed and
appreciated.
Montgomery Township has approximately 260 lane-miles of roadway. Lane-miles are different than road
miles; each mile of road has two lanes; the equivalent of two miles of maintenance and materials. A plow is
not as wide as a road lane. Therefore one lane-mile can take two to four passes of the plow, making a lane-mile
equal to two to four miles of driving/maintenance. Montgomery also has over 250 cul-de-sacs. Each cul-de-sac
is equivalent to one mile of road in terms of maintenance and plowing (time and material).
For long duration snow storms, our goal is to maintain travel and accessibility for emergency vehicles by
“opening up” roads (one pass each direction) and skipping cul-de-sacs until later. This process will be repeated
continuously until the storm slows down and then curb-to-curb plowing commences.
Curb-to-curb clearing will be completed after the snow storm ends. Curb-to-curb is necessary for mail
delivery; to open inlets for water drainage; and clearance for additional snow storms.
Each snow storm is unique - temperature, snowfall duration and depth, icing, etc. Plowing begins prior to the
end of the snowfall. An average storms takes approximately 12 hours to clean-up (plowing and/or salting) after
the last snowflake falls. A snow storm of 12 hours plus 12 hour clean-up process, means 24 (or more) straight
hours of work. Your patience is appreciated.
Residents play an important role and your cooperation and patience are both needed and appreciated. In
order for our crews to do the best clearing job possible, here are some guidelines:
 Montgomery Township has an ordinance which prohibits “parking on street” during snow emergencies
which is strictly enforced.
 DO NOT put snow into the roadway as you clear your driveway and/or sidewalk. Throw snow off the road
and ‘downdrift’ of the plow, which means to the right of your driveway when facing the street. Snow piled
‘updrift’ is more likely to end up back in your driveway.
 If your clear driveways/sidewalks before plowing is done curb-to-curb, expect to have snow that comes off
the plow at the end of the driveway or in the sidewalk.
 Due to snow coming off the plow, mailboxes can be damaged. It is not the intent of the driver to damage a
mailbox. If your mailbox is damaged, email DPW at: dpw@twp.montgomery.nj.us
 Do not place trash cans or recycling cans out until the plows have passed.
 Please watch children and keep them out of the plows’ path and harm’s way.
Mailboxes can be damaged
If your mailbox is down because of a snow plow and you live on a County Road (see County Road list under
“Potholes...”), please email your name, telephone number, address (& nearest cross street) and include any
photos of the mailbox to Somerset County Road Department at RoadDiv@co.somerset.nj.us
If your mailbox is down because of a snow plow, and you live on a Township Road, please email your name,
telephone number, address (& nearest cross street) and any photos of the mailbox, to dpw@twp.montgomery.nj.us.
There is no set schedule as to when the mailbox will be repaired. Public Works is balancing their workload to
accommodate priority issues. In the meantime, please make arrangements with your Post Office to have your mail
held until the mailbox is repaired. Doing this will ensure that your mail is safe until you retrieve it.
If snow is piled up around the mailbox so that the post office cannot deliver mail, you have a couple of
options:
a. Have you mail held at the post office until the snow has melted and mail delivery can be resumed,
b. Consider clearing the snow away from your mailbox.
(continued next page)
Winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter PAGE 14
(continued from previous page)
Storm Drains can get blocked
To report that a storm drain is blocked because so much snow has been plowed onto the side of the
road, please email your name, telephone number, and the address where the storm drain is located, to
dpw@twp.montgomery.nj.us. Public Works will prioritize these issues. If the storm drain is clogged with
a small amount of snow, we appreciate your effort to clear the snow away from the drain as much as
possible. Thank you!
We all appreciate the cooperation of our residents in following these snow clearing guidlines the next time and
every time a snowstorm hits. Remember our crews are out there working hard, doing their best to serve you.
Tips for Waste-Free Holidays
Give “green” gifts a chance this holiday season and recycle as much as possible. Things we can do to
minimize the amount of waste we create. Giving “green” gifts is one way to conserve resources, minimize ‘the
mess’ of packaging materials and even save money. Recycling boxes, wrapping paper, gift cards, cardboard
and acceptable plastics is another.
Some “green” gift ideas, which will keep on giving well past the holiday season: Tickets: theatre, dance,
concert, comedy, sports events; Season Passes: sports and entertainment venues; Memberships: gym,
organizations; Subscriptions: books, magazines; Lessons: cooking, music, dancing; Gift Certificates: restaurant, car wash, spa, bed-and-breakfast; Services: housecleaning, yard work, car washing; Charities:
donate money in a recipient’s name. Contributions to nonprofit organizations often are tax deductible.
Ideas on how to reduce waste include: Purchasing products with little or no packaging, sending electronic
holiday cards to tech-savvy friends and family members, reusing gift wrap and bags and making the packaging
part of the gift, such as wrapping a gift in a tablecloth, dishtowel, an article of clothing or a reusable tote bag.
Residents are reminded that they can recycle holiday waste, such as corrugated cardboard, chipboard (gift
boxes), nonmetallic wrapping paper, holiday cards and plastics - #1 through #7 - at their usual curbside collection
or at Somerset County First Saturday of the Month drop-off events at 40 Polhemus Lane in Bridgewater.
In addition, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection offers holiday-shopping ideas, ways to
cut down on food waste, and post-holiday “stuff” management ideas at:
www.nj.gov/dep/dshw/recycling/xmas_06.htm,
www.nj.gov/dep/dshw/recycling/foodwast_article.htm
and www.nj.gov/dep/dshw/recycling/holiday_stuff.htm.
DISCARDED CHRISTMAS TREE
PICK-UP OR DROP-OFF
The Montgomery Township Department of Public Works will be starting
curbside Christmas tree collection on Monday, January 11, 2016. Please do not
wait to put your tree(s) out. Your section of town may be the first area for pick-up service.
This collection takes several weeks and is dependent upon the weather, so please be patient.
As an alternative, you may drop off your tree at the Department of Public Works site,
located at 12 Harlingen Road. This site is available for drop off at any hour, or day, starting
December 26, 2015 until January 31, 2016. All trees either to be picked up or dropped off
must be free of tinsel and ornaments.
Regular tree limbs/brush may be brought to the Public Works yard without charge but ONLY during the
regular Saturday drop-off dates from 8 am to 12 noon. There is a container facility day on January 9th, 2016.
If you have any questions, contact the Department of Public Works at (908) 874-3144.
Winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter A MESSAGE FROM THE
MARY JACOBS MEMORIAL
LIBRARY FOUNDATION
PAGE 15
To the residents of Montgomery:
We would like to thank you for your continued support
of the Mary Jacobs Memorial Library Foundation and
our Annual Food & Wine Event.
On November 14th, we celebrated the 10th annual Food
& Wine Fundraiser to benefit the Mary Jacobs Memorial
Library.
Thank you to George Jarvis and Cary Dawson, CoPhoto by: Billy Dawson
Chairs of the event, Louise Profit, the Foundation
Development Coordinator, Jo Szabaga and Nancy Geiger, Auction Co-Chairs, Christine Petrane and Mallory
Rohrbach, Wine Arbor Chairs, the Mary Jacobs Library Staff, and all of the volunteers who worked so hard
to make the event run smoothly.
This celebration included great music provided by the band Intersections, delicious food catered by Chez
Alice and a selection of French wines from Steele’s Wine & Liquors. A record number of guests attended the
event, bid on items from the Silent Auction, and took part in the wine pull. This was by far our most successful
event yet!
We also would like to acknowledge our 2015 Corporate Partners and Sponsors, many of whom support us
year after year:
Cornerstone Partner: 1st Constitution Bank.
Library Partners: Bloomberg, Princeton Orthopaedic Associates.
Gold Sponsors: AKS Foundation, Baxter Construction, Improved Insurance, Johnny Rooney and Suzanne
Trautwein : Fal Rooney Camps, Nassau Tennis, RBC Wealth Management, Total Home Manager.
Silver Sponsors: Bank of Princeton, Callaway-Henderson Sotheby’s International Realty, Leo and Minkyo
Chenette, Gibraltar Rock, Harlingen Veterinary Clinic, Hilton Realty, HomeCare Veterinary Clinic, Dr. Tyl,
DMD and Dr. Fogarty, DDS, Mary DeCicco, DMD, Mason, Griffin & Pierson, PC, Montgomery Orthodontics,
Montgomery Medical Associates, Montgomery News, The Olsen Foundation, Pinto & Butler Attorneys at
Law, Princeton Fitness & Wellness Center, Redding’s, Richard E. Shapiro LLC, Rocky Hill Inn, Rotary, Saker
ShopRites, Inc, Speedpro Imaging, TechnicianX, The Princeton Sun, The Town Topics, Van Cleef Engineering,
Witt Law, LLC and Zook Dinon.
You can view photos from the event at: http://www.maryjacobslibrary.org.
The Mary Jacobs Memorial Library Foundation, together with the Friends of Mary Jacobs Library, are still
working hard to raise yet another $100,000 necessary to meet our 2015 operating budget!
The Foundation has had large capital expenses for new HVACs, plus rot repair, painting, duct insulation,
sidewalk repair and more. This is in addition to the regular annual costs of operating the building.
The MJL Foundation owns this building and pays these bills, not your tax money. This is why we rely
on your donations. The Foundation cannot do this without increased support from the whole community—
Montgomery Township, Rocky Hill, Somerset County Library System, local businesses and our users.
If you would like to help us, please contact us at foundation@maryjacobslibrary.org or find out more by
visiting: www.maryjacobslibrary.org.
With our deepest gratitude for your continued support,
Trustees of the Foundation:
Brenda Fallon, Wendy Rayner, Lane Taylor, Sherley Young, Louise Wilson, Michael DeCicco
Municipal and county Newsletter Winter 2016
PAGE 16
Love Us? LICENSE US!
Update: Health Department now licensing CATS to Fight Rabies!
The Board of Health adopted an amendment to Ordinance BH 11A, Feline Rabies Control, to improve vaccination
rates among Montgomery’s cats. Rabies vaccination has been required for cats in Montgomery since 1990. A cat
licensing requirement will help the Township meet its Public Safety mission by reducing the risk of transmitting
rabies to cats and the people who live with them.
Important Facts:
• Cats are at greatest risk of getting rabies of any domestic animal, and exposing the people who care for them.
• Cat licensing is recognized as a Best Practice by Sustainable New Jersey
To safeguard public health
Every licensed pet has been vaccinated against rabies. This protects your pets, children
and neighbors against this deadly disease! When the license tag is visible, you know
that animal has been vaccinated!
2.
To help your pet get home
If your pet gets lost, your pet can be returned more quickly and sometimes without a
trip to the shelter! If it is impounded and taken to the shelter, it is safer there than it
would be roaming the streets in harm’s way. A license tag can be easily traced to the
animal’s owner with a phone call. A license tag is your pet’s ticket home.
3.
To help us to enforce laws on responsible pet ownership
If we can track pet ownership, then we know where to focus our services and education
efforts.
4.
To support the shelter and adoption of unwanted pets
Your yearly license fee helps support sheltering for strays and unwanted pets. It also
pays for our leash-free dog park, animal control services and community education.
5.
It’s the law! Dogs and Cats must be licensed and vaccinated against rabies.
(908)359-4308
N
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NC
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PublicHealth
Prevent. Promote. Protect.
Also Serving: Hopewell Borough ♦ Pennington Borough ♦Rocky Hill Borough
IP OF MO
SH TY OF N
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MONTGOMERY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
Animal Control
IN THE C
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Why is it important to license your pet?
SEAL
FEBRUARY 21 ,
NE
1798
W JERSEY
Winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter PAGE 17
January is Radon Awareness Month and
a Good Time to Test Your Home
The Montgomery Township Health Department is working with the Greater Somerset Public Health Partnership
(GSPHP) to recognize January as Radon Awareness Month.
Radon is an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas that occurs naturally in soil. It is released from the natural
decay of the elements uranium, thorium and radium, and occurs in higher concentrations in certain areas of the
state, including Somerset County.
Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers and the second leading cause of lung cancer in the
United States. Radon is associated with 15,000 to 22,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the United States.
“In an effort to reduce the risk of exposure to radon gas, residents are urged to test their homes,” said Stephanie
Carey, Health Officer of Montgomery Township. “It’s not uncommon to find that homes on the same block will
have different test results. Even if your neighbor’s home is not affected by radon gas, it does not mean that your
home is in an acceptable range.”
Starting on January 4th to enable residents to test their homes, one radon kit per household will be available on
a first-come, first-served basis for $10 at the Montgomery Township Health Department. Residents may pick up
radon kits at the Montgomery Township Health Department, 2261 Route 206, Belle Mead while supplies last.
Montgomery residents seeking more information on radon testing or mitigation should contact the Montgomery
Health Department at (908) 359-8211.
DID YOU KNOW…
About E-Bulletins?
Would you like to join the 5,000 subscribers already receiving occasional free emailed Montgomery
municipal news bulletins? To sign up (its easy!), go to right sidebar of the home page of the Township
website at www.montgomery.nj.us and type your address in the “Sign-up for Ebulletins” box. You
can also call or email Community Information Officer Tamara Garaffa at 908-359-8211 ext. 207 or
tgaraffa@montgomery.nj.us to add your e-mail address. Thank you!
About Montgomery Winter Season Guidelines?
It’s the time of year for leaf raking and soon enough, snow shoveling. There are a number of ‘seasonal’ services
which the Montgomery Twp. Public Works Dept. would like our residents to know more about. A written guidance
has been created which answers many of the questions residents often ask this time of year. Go to the Montgomery
Twp. website at www.twp.montgomery.nj.us and the Public Works section under Departments to find the guide.
Opportunities Available to Serve on a Municipal Board
Would you like to serve in your community? Montgomery residents who would like to volunteer to join a municipal
board, commission or committee for 2016 are encouraged to do so by filling out a Municipal Volunteer Form.
The form can be filled out several ways, for your convenience. Scroll down to “Volunteer Form” on the Forms page of
the township website at www.montgomery.nj.us/departments/forms/. Save and fill it out on your computer and attach to an
email. You may also print a paper copy or get the form from the Twp. Clerk’s Office. The form may be mailed or brought to
the Township Clerk’s Office, 2261 Van Horne Road, Belle Mead, NJ 08502 or emailed to clerk@montgomery.nj.us.
You can learn more about the work of municipal boards and committees on the Boards and Commissions page
of the township web site: www.montgomery.nj.us/elected-officials/township-committee/. Please send the form as
soon as possible. Selection is being done now and appointments are made in early January.
Although it is impossible to appoint every interested resident to a committee, submitted forms are kept on file in
the event that seats open up during the course of the year. In addition, there may be special short-term volunteer
project opportunities available. For further info, call the Township Clerk’s Office at 908-359-8211.
Municipal and county Newsletter Winter 2016
PRESCHOOL
OPEN HOUSE
PAGE 18
Kid Connection
265 Burnt Hill Road
Skillman, NJ 08558
908-359-2111
kids@twp.montgomery.nj.us
www.montgomery.nj.us
Director:
Andrea McKenna
You Are Cordially Invited!
Please join us…
For an open house and registration event for
new families to be held on:
Open House and Registration Event
Saturday, February 6th, 2016
Tours Ongoing: 9:00am-12:00pm
Meet and greet some of the
teachers, tour the building and
classrooms, gather information
about the program and have the
opportunity to register your child
for the upcoming school year.
We will have limited availability,
so please call ahead
to register for this event.
Kid Connection: Introduction
Kid Connection provides an age-appropriate
social and academic environment for 3, 4, and
5 year-old students (born on or before October
1st). Our highly qualified, certified teachers are
caring, patient and very experienced in working
with young learners.
The curriculum provides a sequential building of
skills, both social and cognitive, maximizing
each child’s potential, to make a smooth
transition to the school district’s K-2 Orchard
Hill Elementary School.
In addition to large and small group instruction,
children
build
with
blocks,
play
in
housekeeping, water and sand tables, and
writing centers on a daily basis. We are a
traditional preschool, where you will see the
children’s art work displayed in the classrooms
and in the hallways.
Music and movement classes are offered as
“specials” and are included in the program.
Attend our open houses and see why we are
perfect for your preschool-aged child.
Kid Connection: Time Options Why Kid Connection?
Kid Connection offers the following 2, 3 and 5
day programs:
•
Full Day Preschool (9:15am-3:15pm)
•
Half Day Preschool (AM 9:15am-11:45am)
•
Extended Lunch Preschool 11:45-1:00 (M/W/F)
•
Before school – Pre-K through grade 2 (starting
at 7:30am) and After school (ending at 6:00pm)
Our young Kid Connection children …
1. Develop a lifelong love of learning
2. Grow socially and academically.
3. Are encouraged to use their imaginations
and critical thinking skills.
Contact us today to register for
our open house event:
908-359-2111 or
kids@twp.montgomery.nj.us
201 6- 1 7 Will Be Our 35th Year Educating Young Minds!
winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter PAGE 19
New at Blawenburg Village School
Tutoring Program for students in Pre-K through grade 4. Monday - Friday 4:00 - 7:00 PM.
Individual Sessions and "Homework Helpers" Small Group Sessions (up to 5). Small group
sessions for pre-k & kindergarten M - F, 9 - 11 AM & 1:30 - 3:30 PM. We will communicate
with your child's current teacher to facilitate an appropriate individualized program. Each session
(both individual and small group) is one hour and taught by certified teachers. For additional
information contact Karen Hill, Director 609-466-6600, khill@blawenburgvillageschool.com.
SOFT LACROSSE ~ All Skill Levels Welcome!
WHERE: OHES - West Gym
WHEN: TUESDAYS: January 12th – March 1st
Boys & Girls K-2nd Grades @ 4:00 - 5:00 pm; Boys & Girls 3rd/4th Grades @ 5:00 - 6:00 pm
INSTRUCTOR: MHS Assistant Varsity Boys Lacrosse Coach Anthony Terranova
COST: $95/8 sessions + $75 Equipment Fee (Includes indoor helmet, gloves, lacrosse stick and ball + 1 year
membership to US Lacrosse).
Sessions focus on basic lacrosse skills with 20-minutes of skill development followed by 34 minute games to solidify
learning. For more information contact Coach Terranova at aterranova12@yahoo.com or visit www.softlacrosse.org.
Waldorf School of Princeton Welcomes You This Winter
Educating the Head, Heart, and Hands of Children PreK–Grade 8
Open House & Alumni Panel
Saturday, January 9, 2016, 10:00 a.m.–Noon
Early Childhood Sample Morning
Saturday, January 9, 2016, 9:00-10:30 a.m.
For children ages 2–5 with a caregiver, Free; advance registration required.
Grade School Visiting Morning (for Adults)
Wednesday, January 26, 2016, 8:30-10 a.m.
New Jersey’s only Waldorf School, nestled on 20+ acres of meadows and woods, right in your backyard!
For more information, or to schedule a personal tour, please e-mail Diane Barlow, enrollment director, at
admissions@princetonwaldorf.org, or call 609.466.1970, x115. Visit us at 1062 Cherry Hill Road, Princeton,
NJ 08540; www.princetonwaldorf.org.
Sinterklaas Bazaar
Saturday, December 5, 2015 – 9 AM to 2 PM
Stop by Blawenburg Church for our annual holiday celebration! Shop for gifts including
hand-crafted garments and ornaments, and gently used home goods. You’ll also have the
opportunity to purchase the unique gift of animals that will be given to families in need through
the work of Heifer International. And while you’re shopping, treat yourself to homemade
soup and baked goods, and take some home for later! For more information contact us at
609.466.1932 or brc1832@verizon.net. And visit us online at www.blawenburgchurch.org.
Blawenburg Reformed Church
424 Route 518, PO Box 266, Blawenburg, NJ 08504, 609.466.1832
Municipal and county Newsletter winter 2016
PAGE 20
Princeton HealthCare System’s Community Education & Outreach Programs offer a variety of programming
dedicated to promoting healthy living at every stage. Events are held at Princeton Fitness & Wellness Center,
1225 State Road, Princeton (unless otherwise noted). Register online at www.princetonhcs.org/calendar or call
1.888.897.8979.
Healthy Eating Over the Holidays
Pennington Public Library, 30 North Main St., PenningtonFind out what you can do to better manage your eating
habits and curb your appetite during the holiday season.
Dec. 8, 2015, 6:30 – 8 p.m.
Self Defense for Women
Hamilton Area YMCA, 1315 Whitehorse-Mercerville Rd., Ste. 100, Hamilton R.A.D. Women is a national
self-defense course for women that combines realistic classroom learning with physical defense tactics and riskreduction strategies.
Jan. 4 – Jan. 12, 2016, 6 – 9 p.m.
Total Control: A Pelvic Wellness Program for Women
Princeton Fitness & Wellness Center, 1225 State Rd., PrincetonEmpower yourself to improve your bladder health
and quality of life through a seven-week Total Control® program that includes a low-impact workout.
Jan. 12 – Feb. 25, 2016, 1 – 2:15 p.m.
s
e
s
s
a
l
C
d
l
i
h
C
/
Parent
New for 2015-2016!
...hands-on exploration for tiny tots
Designed for parents to experience the joy of learning
alongside their little ones, ages 2 and under.
Mondays
9:30 to 10:30 AM
Thursdays
1 to 2 PM
Each class session includes music, stories, and art exploration.
The first 10-week series begins October 5.
For more info or to register, call 609.466.6600
or email info@blawenburgvillageschool.com
Blawenburg Village School
Dedicated to nurturing the social, developmental, emotional, and spiritual needs of children
www.blawenburgvillageschool.com
winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter KEEP CALM AND CAROL ON
English Music for Christmastide
including Gustav Holst's “Christmas Day”
Sunday afternoon at 3pm
December 13, 2015
Hillsborough Reformed Church
One Amwell Road • Hillsborough NJ
All tickets $10.
The tradition continues!
Holiday Cookie Extravaganza
Tasty chorus-made treats just $10 / tin
PAGE 21
Stony Brook Millstone
Watershed Association
Two Holiday Season Craft Class Offerings
December 12 - Candle Making
1:00-3:00PM, 8yo – Adult, Fee per person:
$10Members/$15Non-MembersCreate hand-dipped
candles, sand candles, and molded candles. Learn how
to shape candles and add embellishments! Meet at the
Watershed Center, 31 Titus Mill Road, Pennington. Call
to register, 609-737-7592.January 9 - Recycle, Reuse
& Re-gift10:30AM – 12:00PM, 12yo – Adult, $5 per
person. Give your holiday cards a second life! Learn to
make origami boxes, gift tags and spherical ornaments.
Bring all of your cards, scissors and a ruler. Meet at the
Watershed Center, 31 Titus Mill Road, Pennington. Call
to register, 609-737-7592.
Montgomery Baseball
Spring and Fall Programs!
Open to residents of Montgomery, Rocky Hill and Princeton!
Grades Pre-K though HS (age 4 through 18)
Why play Montgomery Baseball?
 Over 400 kids (and growing!) play with their friends in our recreational program which is offered to every child ages 4-18 (pre-K through HS seniors!) at every skill level
 Our teams are balanced with every team making the playoffs
 We offer 3 recreational seasons: spring rec, summer sandlot, fall ball
 We have a competitive spring/summer travel program for ages 8-15 with teams winning local, district, state and regional titles
We focus on DEVELOPMENT
 A professional clinic is free as part of our spring recreational program
 Every one of our coaches receives 90 minutes of professional instruction on current practices in baseball instruction
 Through our partners we have access to discounted professional training services and clinics
 We offer professionally instructed summer baseball camps at our world class complex
We build a COMMUNITY
 Every year more than 500 of your neighbors enjoy a family night out at one of our local minor league baseball games
 We always have something up our sleeves, like Movie Night at the Complex, pancake breakfast at Applebee’s, etc.; who knows what’s next!
 Each year the MHS baseball team plays ~ 2 home games at our world class complex and MHS Coach Mueller runs a hitting clinic for our players with his players
Learn more and register at www.MontgomeryBaseball.com
winter 2016
Municipal and county Newsletter PAGE 22
Starlite Chorale
A Singing Ensemble under the Direction of
Dr. Tony Godlefski; Dr. Laura Bell, Accompanist
A Family Christmas Celebration of Music and Joy
The Singing Puppets - and much more!
4:30 PM, Sunday, December 6, 2015
Montgomery United Methodist Church
117 Sunset Road, Belle Mead, NJ 08502
Phone (908) 874-3273
Adults & Seniors: $10.00; Children and Students: Free
Rock Brook School’s Parents Night Out
Attention parents of children with special needs!
Each month, Rock Brook School holds a Parents Night Out, which allows parents to
enjoy an evening out while their children have fun in a structured, safe environment. All
activities are supervised by Rock Brook’s highly trained special needs staff. Parents Night
Out is open to the public and siblings are welcome.
*Held on a Saturday, from 5:30 – 9:30 pm at the Rock Brook School, Parents Night
Outs for the 2015-2016 school year are scheduled for:
December 5
February 6
April 9
January 9
March 5
May 7
For more information visit www.rock-brook.org or call (908) 431-9500.
*Dates subject to change. Please call for confirmation.
Founded in 1974, Rock Brook School is a NJ State approved school designed for students with multiple
disabilities and communication impairments. RBS provides a full academic program along with individual
speech and language therapy. Its full academic individualized programs follow NJ Core Content Standards.
Rock Brook School, 109 Orchard Road, Skillman, NJ, 08550
Montgomery Township Departments
Main Phone Number 908-359-8211
Administration
Donato Nieman, Administrator
Construction/Code
Roy Mondi, Construction Official
Engineering Dept.
Gail Smith, Township Engineer
Stormwater Pollution 908-281-6525
Finance Dept.
Walter Sheppard, CFO
Mayor’s Office
Christine Madrid, Mayor
Mayor Hours: By Appointment
908-359-8211 ext. 215
Planning/Zoning
Lori Savron, Planning Director
Tax Assessor
Ryan Riccio, Tax Assessor
Tax Collection
Walter Sheppard, Tax Collector
Township Clerk
Donna Kukla, Clerk
Other Phone Numbers
Animal Control
Chris Krygier
908-359-4308
Animal Control Officer
Court/Violations
908-369-3532
Montgomery Kid Connection
Andrea McKenna, Director
908-359-2111
Police Non-Emergency
Cpt. Robert Palmer, Director 908-359-3222
Public Works Dept.
Arthur Villano, Superintendent 908-874-3144
Pothole Hotline
908-874-8947
Recreation Dept.
Karen Zimmerman, Director 609-466-3023
Sports Field Rec. Hotline
800-731-8412