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Up for it? Try Mercer’s new Ropes Course

The highly anticipated Ropes Course at Mercer County Park is set to open Sept. 10 to limited patrons, and brave members of the Mercer County Park Commission recently volunteered themselves for a trial run of the course.

“I love a good challenge,” said Park Commission Executive Director Aaron T. Watson, who admitted to being on the “and above” side of the age requirement.

“I felt like I was amongst the trees and got a fantastic bird’s eye view of Mercer Lake. Along with our campgrounds and our outdoor exercise equipment, I’m proud to add this additional feature to Mercer County Park.”

The Park Commission has contracted with the Philadelphia Outward Bound School to oversee programming for the inaugural fall season of the ropes course operations. After years of planning, strategizing, and finally building, the ropes challenge course is scheduled to open Sunday, Sept. 10 for patrons 12 and older.

“This active recreation structure is a fun way to bring people together and to challenge themselves,” said County Executive Brian M. Hughes. “I applaud the Park Commission for its forward-thinking leadership and I thank them for taking the test runs on my behalf!”

It was a long way down, but with his helmet on and harness securely attached, project manager Jeremy McDermott said he felt safe and confident.

“The ropes course was really amazing,” McDermott said, on his trial run. “The challenge and height give you an adrenaline rush that makes it exciting, but with the top-notch safety gear and the Outward Bound facilitators, you know you’re in good hands.”

The ropes course contains 12 “challenges” or elements, including the Zigzag, Swinging Logs, and the Postman’s Walk. Each challenge gives the participant the opportunity to use their balance, focus, and teamwork skills.

Outward Bound’s facilitators are there to encourage, inspire, and even hold a hand if needed.

Ropes Course Programing will be offered on a limited number of specific dates beginning Sept.10 and running through mid-November. Please visit www.mercercounty.org/parks for dates of operation.

  • “Adventure 1” includes Cargo Net Climb, Full Adventure Course & Leap of Faith Descent. Approximately two hours in duration. $25 for juniors 12 to 17 and $30 for adults 18 and older. Pre-registration is required. Log onto Community Pass to register for Adventure 1.
  • “Adventure 2” Cargo Net Climb & Zip line Only.
  • $15 Adults and Juniors ages 12 and up. Approximately 45 minutes in duration.
  • $5 if you are adding the zip line to previously purchased Adventure 1.

*Please note for zip line “Adventure 2” there will not be pre-registration for this adventure

If you are interested in zip lining at the Mercer County Ropes Course, you should register on site at the course the day of course operation. Zip lining is first-come, first-served.

All Adventures Essential Eligibility Requirements Mercer County Challenge Course

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Business Healthcare Lifestyle Local News Science

Church & Dwight webcasts presentation at the 2023 Barclays Global Consumer Staples Conference

EWING, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (NYSE: CHD) will present at the 2023 Barclays Global Consumer Staples Conference on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023 at 11:15 a.m. ET. A link to the broadcast will be provided through the Investors section of Church & Dwight’s website at http://investor.churchdwight.com/investors/news-events.

 

Church & Dwight Co., Inc. manufactures and markets a wide range of personal care, household and specialty products under the ARM & HAMMER brand name and other well-known trademarks.

 

Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (NYSE: CHD) founded in 1846, is the leading U.S. producer of sodium bicarbonate, popularly known as baking soda. The Company manufactures and markets a wide range of personal care, household, and specialty products under recognized brand names such as ARM & HAMMER®, TROJAN®, OXICLEAN®, SPINBRUSH®, FIRST RESPONSE®, NAIR®, ORAJEL®, XTRA®, L’IL CRITTERS® and VITAFUSION®, BATISTE®, WATERPIK®, ZICAM®, THERABREATH® and HERO®. These fourteen key brands represent approximately 85% of the Company’s products sales. For more information, visit the Company’s website.

 

Contacts

Rick Dierker

609-806-1900

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Business Healthcare Local News Science

Retrospective observational study assessing real-world clinical impact of switching or continuing Eliquis® or Rivaroxaban presented at the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress 2023

Switching from Eliquis (apixaban) to rivaroxaban in Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation (NVAF) patients was associated with a higher risk of stroke/systemic embolism (S/SE) and major bleeding (MB) than those who continued Eliquis

 

PRINCETON, N.J. & NEW YORK — (BUSINESS WIRE) — $BMY #ATHENS — The Bristol Myers Squibb-Pfizer (BMS NYSE: BMY) – (Pfizer NYSE: PFE) Alliance on Friday, presented results from ATHENS, a retrospective real-world data study, at the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress 2023 showing that switching from Eliquis® (apixaban) to rivaroxaban in Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation (NVAF) patients was associated with a higher risk of stroke/systemic embolism (S/SE) and major bleeding (MB) than those who continued Eliquis.

 

“Although some NVAF patients switch direct oral anticoagulants in real-world clinical practice, either for medical or non-medical reasons, there hasn’t been a lot of information gathered on the clinical outcomes of those switches,” said Steve Deitelzweig, MD, MMM, FACC, SFHM, FACP, RVT, System Chairman for Hospital Medicine, Ochsner Health System. “The study results provide insights about the real-world risk of stroke and major bleeding associated with switching from apixaban to rivaroxaban in patients with NVAF.”

 

This retrospective study identified NVAF patients who initiated Eliquis or rivaroxaban between 01 January 2013 and 31 December 2021 using Optum’s de-identified Clinformatics® Data Mart database. There were 167,868 Eliquis initiators and 65,888 rivaroxaban initiators who met study criteria. Using propensity score matching (PSM), 2,900 patients who switched from Eliquis to rivaroxaban were matched to 14,500 patients who continued Eliquis, and 2,873 patients who switched from rivaroxaban to Eliquis were matched to 14,365 patients who continued rivaroxaban.

 

“Data collected in real-world settings can enhance patient care. By gathering insights from everyday clinical practice, we can better understand how Eliquis is used and its impact on patients’ lives,” said Narinder Bhalla, MD, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Medical, Head of Cardiovascular and Established Brands at Bristol Myers Squibb. “This real-world data provides pragmatic information to help clinicians manage the care of their patients.”

 

In this study, switching from Eliquis to rivaroxaban was associated with a higher risk of S/SE (Hazard Ratio (HR):1.99, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.38-2.88) and MB (HR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.46-2.23) than those who continued Eliquis. Additionally, switching from rivaroxaban to Eliquis was associated with a similar risk of S/SE (HR:0.74, 95% CI: 0.45-1.22) and a lower risk of MB (HR:0.58, 95%CI: 0.44-0.76) compared to those who continued rivaroxaban. It is important to note that anticoagulants, including Eliquis, increase the risk of bleeding and can cause serious, potentially fatal bleeding. Please see important safety information below for Eliquis, including BOXED WARNINGS.

 

Real-world data have the potential to supplement randomized, controlled clinical trial data by providing additional information about how a medicine performs in routine medical practice. Real-world data analyses, however, have important limitations. Observational real-world studies can only evaluate association and not causality, and despite the use of methods to address differences due to measured variables, false associations may still be present. The source and type of data used may limit the generalizability of the results, and varied outcomes are possible.

 

In the ATHENS study, treatment assignments were based on pharmacy claims and actual drug exposure is unknown. Additionally, reasons for switching are not known and sample size for those who switched is much lower than those who continued treatment. Dosing criteria were not evaluated and impacts of drug dosing on outcomes were not assessed. Due to these limitations, real-world data analyses are not used as evidence to validate the efficacy and/or safety of a treatment.

 

About ATHENS

The ATHENS study was designed to assess the risk of stroke/systemic embolism (S/SE) and major bleeding (MB) among Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation (NVAF) patients who switched from Eliquis (apixaban) to rivaroxaban or switched from rivaroxaban to Eliquis instead of continuing initial treatment. This retrospective study identified NVAF patients who initiated treatment between 01 January 2013 and 31 December 2021 using a large U.S. administrative claims database. There were 167,868 Eliquis initiators and 65,888 rivaroxaban initiators included in the study.

 

Within both the Eliquis initiators and rivaroxaban initiators cohorts, patients were divided into two groups and compared: switchers to a different direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) within 30 days before or 90 days after discontinuation of the initial DOAC, and continuers, or patients who continued receiving the initial DOAC. The switch date was the index date for those who switched while, for those who continued, a hypothetic index date was randomly assigned based on the distribution of the time from initial DOAC prescription to the switch date in the switchers group. Two final cohorts (switchers and continuers) within Eliquis initiators and rivaroxaban initiators were further propensity score matched (PSM) based on pre-index characteristics using a 1:5 ratio.

 

About Eliquis® (apixaban)

Eliquis® is an oral selective Factor Xa inhibitor. By inhibiting Factor Xa, a key blood clotting protein, Eliquis decreases thrombin generation and blood clot formation. Eliquis is approved for multiple indications in the U.S. based on efficacy and safety data from multiple Phase 3 clinical trials. The approval of Eliquis for stroke risk reduction in patients with NVAF is based on data from the Phase 3 ARISTOTLE and AVERROES studies of Eliquis in patients with NVAF. The approval of Eliquis for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), and for the reduction in the risk of recurrent DVT and PE following initial therapy, is based on data from the global AMPLIFY and AMPLIFY-EXT studies. U.S. FDA-Approved Indications for Eliquis: Eliquis is a prescription medicine indicated in the U.S. to reduce the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with NVAF; for the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which may lead to pulmonary embolism (PE), in patients who have undergone hip or knee replacement surgery; for the treatment of DVT and PE; and to reduce the risk of recurrent DVT and PE, following initial therapy.

 

Eliquis Important Safety Information

Indications

Eliquis is indicated to reduce the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.

Eliquis is indicated for the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which may lead to pulmonary embolism (PE), in patients who have undergone hip or knee replacement surgery.

Eliquis is indicated for the treatment of DVT and PE, and to reduce the risk of recurrent DVT and PE following initial therapy.

 

Important Safety Information

WARNING: (A) PREMATURE DISCONTINUATION OF ELIQUIS INCREASES THE RISK OF THROMBOTIC EVENTS, (B) SPINAL/EPIDURAL HEMATOMA

(A) Premature discontinuation of any oral anticoagulant, including Eliquis, increases the risk of thrombotic events. If anticoagulation with Eliquis is discontinued for a reason other than pathological bleeding or completion of a course of therapy, consider coverage with another anticoagulant.

 

(B) Epidural or spinal hematomas may occur in patients treated with Eliquis who are receiving neuraxial anesthesia or undergoing spinal puncture. These hematomas may result in long-term or permanent paralysis. Consider these risks when scheduling patients for spinal procedures. Factors that can increase the risk of developing epidural or spinal hematomas in these patients include:

  • use of indwelling epidural catheters
  • concomitant use of other drugs that affect hemostasis, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), platelet inhibitors, other anticoagulants
  • a history of traumatic or repeated epidural or spinal punctures
  • a history of spinal deformity or spinal surgery
  • optimal timing between the administration of Eliquis and neuraxial procedures is not known

 

Monitor patients frequently for signs and symptoms of neurological impairment. If neurological compromise is noted, urgent treatment is necessary.

 

Consider the benefits and risks before neuraxial intervention in patients anticoagulated or to be anticoagulated.

 

CONTRAINDICATIONS

  • Active pathological bleeding
  • Severe hypersensitivity reaction to Eliquis (e.g., anaphylactic reactions)

 

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTION

  • Increased Risk of Thrombotic Events after Premature Discontinuation: Premature discontinuation of any oral anticoagulant, including Eliquis, in the absence of adequate alternative anticoagulation increases the risk of thrombotic events. An increased rate of stroke was observed during the transition from Eliquis to warfarin in clinical trials in atrial fibrillation patients. If Eliquis is discontinued for a reason other than pathological bleeding or completion of a course of therapy, consider coverage with another anticoagulant.
  • Bleeding Risk: Eliquis increases the risk of bleeding and can cause serious, potentially fatal, bleeding.
    • Concomitant use of drugs affecting hemostasis increases the risk of bleeding, including aspirin and other antiplatelet agents, other anticoagulants, heparin, thrombolytic agents, SSRIs, SNRIs, and NSAIDs.
    • Advise patients of signs and symptoms of blood loss and to report them immediately or go to an emergency room. Discontinue Eliquis in patients with active pathological hemorrhage.
    • The anticoagulant effect of apixaban can be expected to persist for at least 24 hours after the last dose (i.e., about two half-lives). An agent to reverse the anti-factor Xa activity of apixaban is available. Please visit www.andexxa.com for more information on availability of a reversal agent.
  • Spinal/Epidural Anesthesia or Puncture: Patients treated with Eliquis undergoing spinal/epidural anesthesia or puncture may develop an epidural or spinal hematoma which can result in long-term or permanent paralysis.

 

The risk of these events may be increased by the postoperative use of indwelling epidural catheters or the concomitant use of medicinal products affecting hemostasis. Indwelling epidural or intrathecal catheters should not be removed earlier than 24 hours after the last administration of Eliquis. The next dose of Eliquis should not be administered earlier than 5 hours after the removal of the catheter. The risk may also be increased by traumatic or repeated epidural or spinal puncture. If traumatic puncture occurs, delay the administration of Eliquis for 48 hours.

 

Monitor patients frequently and if neurological compromise is noted, urgent diagnosis and treatment is necessary. Physicians should consider the potential benefit versus the risk of neuraxial intervention in Eliquis patients.

  • Prosthetic Heart Valves: The safety and efficacy of Eliquis have not been studied in patients with prosthetic heart valves and is not recommended in these patients.
  • Acute PE in Hemodynamically Unstable Patients or Patients who Require Thrombolysis or Pulmonary Embolectomy: Initiation of Eliquis is not recommended as an alternative to unfractionated heparin for the initial treatment of patients with PE who present with hemodynamic instability or who may receive thrombolysis or pulmonary embolectomy.
  • Increased Risk of Thrombosis in Patients with Triple Positive Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS): Direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs), including Eliquis, are not recommended for use in patients with triple-positive APS. For patients with APS (especially those who are triple positive [positive for lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin, and anti–beta 2-glycoprotein I antibodies]), treatment with DOACs has been associated with increased rates of recurrent thrombotic events compared with vitamin K antagonist therapy.

 

ADVERSE REACTIONS

  • The most common and most serious adverse reactions reported with Eliquis were related to bleeding.

 

TEMPORARY INTERRUPTION FOR SURGERY AND OTHER INTERVENTIONS

  • Eliquis should be discontinued at least 48 hours prior to elective surgery or invasive procedures with a moderate or high risk of unacceptable or clinically significant bleeding. Eliquis should be discontinued at least 24 hours prior to elective surgery or invasive procedures with a low risk of bleeding or where the bleeding would be noncritical in location and easily controlled. Bridging anticoagulation during the 24 to 48 hours after stopping Eliquis and prior to the intervention is not generally required. Eliquis should be restarted after the surgical or other procedures as soon as adequate hemostasis has been established.

 

DRUG INTERACTIONS

  • Combined P-gp and Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Inhibitors of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) increase exposure to apixaban and increase the risk of bleeding. For patients receiving Eliquis doses of 5 mg or 10 mg twice daily, reduce the dose of Eliquis by 50% when Eliquis is coadministered with drugs that are combined P-gp and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, or ritonavir). In patients already taking 2.5 mg twice daily, avoid coadministration of Eliquis with combined P-gp and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.

 

Clarithromycin

Although clarithromycin is a combined P-gp and strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, pharmacokinetic data suggest that no dose adjustment is necessary with concomitant administration with Eliquis.

  • Combined P-gp and Strong CYP3A4 Inducers: Avoid concomitant use of Eliquis with combined P-gp and strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, St. John’s wort) because such drugs will decrease exposure to apixaban.
  • Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Agents: Coadministration of antiplatelet agents, fibrinolytics, heparin, aspirin, and chronic NSAID use increases the risk of bleeding. APPRAISE-2, a placebo-controlled clinical trial of apixaban in high-risk post-acute coronary syndrome patients treated with aspirin or the combination of aspirin and clopidogrel, was terminated early due to a higher rate of bleeding with apixaban compared to placebo.

 

PREGNANCY

  • The limited available data on Eliquis use in pregnant women are insufficient to inform drug-associated risks of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse developmental outcomes. Treatment may increase the risk of bleeding during pregnancy and delivery, and in the fetus and neonate.
    • Labor or delivery: Eliquis use during labor or delivery in women who are receiving neuraxial anesthesia may result in epidural or spinal hematomas.
    • Consider use of a shorter acting anticoagulant as delivery approaches.

 

LACTATION

  • Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Eliquis.

 

FEMALES AND MALES OF REPRODUCTIVE POTENTIAL

  • Females of reproductive potential requiring anticoagulation should discuss pregnancy planning with their physician. The risk of clinically significant uterine bleeding, potentially requiring gynecological surgical interventions, identified with oral anticoagulants including Eliquis should be assessed in these patients and those with abnormal uterine bleeding.

 

Please see U.S. FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION, including Boxed WARNINGS, available at www.bms.com.

 

About the Bristol Myers Squibb-Pfizer Collaboration

The Bristol Myers Squibb-Pfizer Alliance (the Alliance) is committed to driving education and awareness about atrial fibrillation and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and/or pulmonary embolism (PE). With long- standing cardiovascular leadership, global scale and expertise in this field, the Alliance strives to implement global, research-driven approaches to illuminate and address the unmet needs around strokes related to non-valvular atrial fibrillation, which are often fatal or debilitating. Through collaborations with non-profit organizations, the Alliance aims to provide patients, healthcare professionals and decision makers with the information they need to understand and take appropriate action on risk factors associated with stroke and other cardiovascular conditions.

 

About Bristol Myers Squibb

Bristol Myers Squibb is a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases. For more information about Bristol Myers Squibb, visit us at BMS.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.

 

About Pfizer Inc.: Breakthroughs That Change Patients’ Lives

At Pfizer, we apply science and our global resources to bring therapies to people that extend and significantly improve their lives. We strive to set the standard for quality, safety and value in the discovery, development and manufacture of health care products, including innovative medicines and vaccines.

Every day, Pfizer colleagues work across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments and cures that challenge the most feared diseases of our time. Consistent with our responsibility as one of the world’s premier innovative biopharmaceutical companies, we collaborate with health care providers, governments and local communities to support and expand access to reliable, affordable health care around the world. For more than 170 years, we have worked to make a difference for all who rely on us. We routinely post information that may be important to investors on our website at www.Pfizer.com. In addition, to learn more, please visit us on www.Pfizer.com and follow us on Twitter at @Pfizer and @Pfizer News, LinkedIn, YouTube and like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/Pfizer.

 

Bristol Myers Squibb Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding, among other things, the research, development and commercialization of pharmaceutical products. All statements that are not statements of historical facts are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and projections about our future financial results, goals, plans and objectives and involve inherent risks, assumptions and uncertainties, including internal or external factors that could delay, divert or change any of them in the next several years, that are difficult to predict, may be beyond our control and could cause our future financial results, goals, plans and objectives to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, the statements. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements in this press release should be evaluated together with the many risks and uncertainties that affect Bristol Myers Squibb’s business and market, particularly those identified in the cautionary statement and risk factors discussion in Bristol Myers Squibb’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, as updated by our subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements included in this document are made only as of the date of this document and except as otherwise required by applicable law, Bristol Myers Squibb undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, changed circumstances or otherwise.

 

Pfizer Disclosure Notice

The information contained in this release is as of August 25, 2023. Pfizer assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this release as the result of new information or future events or developments.

 

This release contains forward-looking information about Eliquis (apixaban), including its potential benefits, that involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Risks and uncertainties include, among other things, the uncertainties inherent in research and development, including the ability to meet anticipated clinical endpoints, commencement and/or completion dates for our clinical trials, regulatory submission dates, regulatory approval dates and/or launch dates, as well as the possibility of unfavorable new clinical or other data and further analyses of existing clinical or other data; the risk that clinical trial data are subject to differing interpretations and assessments by regulatory authorities; whether regulatory authorities will be satisfied with the design of and results from our clinical studies; decisions by regulatory authorities impacting labeling, manufacturing processes, safety and/or other matters that could affect the availability or commercial potential of Eliquis; uncertainties regarding commercial success; uncertainties regarding the impact of COVID-19 on Pfizer’s business, operations and financial results; and competitive developments.

 

A further description of risks and uncertainties can be found in Pfizer’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 and in its subsequent reports on Form 10-Q, including in the sections thereof captioned “Risk Factors” and “Forward-Looking Information and Factors That May Affect Future Results,” as well as in its subsequent reports on Form 8-K, all of which are filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and available at www.sec.gov and www.pfizer.com.

 

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Contacts

Media Inquiries:

Bristol Myers Squibb

Media Inquiries: media@bms.com
Investors: investor.relations@bms.com

Pfizer Inc.

Media: PfizerMediaRelations@Pfizer.com +1 (212) 733-1226

Investors: IR@Pfizer.com +1 (212) 733-4848

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Environment Healthcare Lifestyle Local News Science

Mercer County Park Commission takes nature-based approach to new parking lot

‘Green infrastructure’ gentler on environment, mitigates runoff

A rolling stone gathers no moss.

But rolling stormwater, called stormwater runoff, can gather much worse than moss, including trash, oil, sediment and other troublesome pollutants. And to make matters worse, without the proper infrastructure, the debris often goes straight into our lakes, streams and rivers.

With this in mind, the Mercer County Park Commission found an opportunity to do its part in mitigating the effects of stormwater runoff by designing “green infrastructure” into a parking lot repaving project at John A. Roebling Memorial Parkin Hamilton. The park is home to the Tulpehaking Nature Center, which houses the Park Commission’s Environmental Education Department.

“As the Park Commission and Mercer County invest in improvements to our park system, we strive to do so in an environmentally conscious way,” said Park Commission Executive Director Aaron T. Watson. “We know that as stewards of over 10,000 acres of open space in the county, our decisions should improve both the quality of life for residents and the environment as a whole.”

Roebling Park is located within the 3,000-acre Abbott Marshlands, the northernmost freshwater tidal marsh in the Delaware River watershed. The stormwater from its parking lot drains directly into Spring Lake and the park’s surrounding freshwater tidal marsh.

 

The Abbott Marshlands attracts rare wildlife such as river otter, American eel, and bald eagle. It is also an important stopover for migratory birds along the Atlantic flyway. Unmanaged stormwater runoff can negatively impact water quality and the local ecosystem, create harmful algal blooms, and increase the possibility of flooding.

The stormwater runoff has also eroded portions of the existing parking lot and has made Spring Lake less appealing for fishing and boating.

 

Improvements at the Spring Lake access area are scheduled to begin in early September.

The plan includes several rain gardens, a green infrastructure option that is both beautiful and effective in form and function. Rain gardens not only absorb rainwater, but they also filter out pollutants and provide food and shelter for local wildlife. More importantly, the rain gardens at the Spring Lake parking lot will capture stormwater runoff before it flows into the lake.

Access to Roebling Park from Sewell Avenue in Hamilton will be temporarily closed to the public during construction, but will be reopened when the project is complete.

Various native shrubs, grasses and perennial wildflowers will be planted in the garden, including northern bayberry, swamp milkweed, and woodland phlox. The colorful blooms amongst the grasses will add to the visual appeal of the garden for both people and pollinators.

This is a pilot project, which is being funded through the Mercer County Open Space Trust Fund. The results will inform plans for future upgrades at other park facilities, as the Mercer County Park Commission continues to effectively steward its numerous parks and recreation facilities.

For more information on rain gardens and how you could make your own, go to http://water.rutgers.edu/Rain_Gardens/RGWebsite/rginfo.html

Categories
Culture Environment Lifestyle Local News Science

Annual ‘Insect Festival’ set for Sept. 9

This year’s theme is “Bugs Rule!”

Learn about the importance of insects in our lives and how to protect their habitats through fun, hands-on activities!

Rutgers Master Gardeners of Mercer County will sponsor the 2023 “Bugs Rule!” Insect Festival on Saturday, Sept. 9, at Mercer Educational Gardens,431A Federal City Road, Hopewell Township. The festival will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine. Admission is free and on-site parking is available. Learn about the importance of insects in our lives and how they create the biological foundation for all terrestrial ecosystems through fun, hands-on activities!

This year’s festival will feature how insects are important because of their diversity, ecological role and influence on agriculture, human health and natural resources. There will be educational activities for visitors of all ages, including the popular Scavenger Hunt and Metamorphosis game. Other highlights include “Bugs in Water,” and Q&A with  Rutgers Cooperative Extension Horticulturist, Justine Gray and Mercer Master Gardeners. Local environmental agencies and experts will offer displays and information to the public. Representatives from the Watershed Institute, Abbott Marshlands, Native Plant Society of New Jersey, Northwest New Jersey Beekeepers Association, N.J. Department of Agriculture, and more!

Attendees are invited to view the demonstration gardens on site and learn how insects interact with the different plants. The public can also learn about various methods of composting. Along the way, there will be activities designed to teach children of all ages to appreciate the beauty, diversity, and essential roles of our insect friends.

About the Master Gardeners:

The Rutgers Master Gardeners of Mercer County is a volunteer educational outreach program of Rutgers Cooperative Extension. Master Gardeners participate in many volunteer programs throughout the County. For home gardening, plant, turf, or insect questions, you can visit our Helpline office at Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Mercer County, Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Friday, 9 a.m. to 12 noon, and speak with our Helpline team. You can also call us at (609) 989-6853 or send us an email at AsktheMGs@mercercounty.org. Visit our website at www.mgofmc.org for more information

PHOTO: Rutgers Master Gardeners of Mercer County from left, Michele Berenwick of Lawrenceville; Amber Dalke of Princeton; Bev Phillips of Trenton; Marietta Hujber of Hamilton; and Susan Colket of Titusville don insect costumes at a previous Insect Fest and explain the importance of each insect. Look for these insects and fun activities at the upcoming 2023 Insect Festival on Saturday, Sept. 9 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine at Mercer Educational Gardens, 431A Federal City Road, Pennington.

CONTACT: Justine Gray, (609) 989-6830 justinegray@njaes.rutgers.edu

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Business Culture Digital - AI & Apps Economics Government Lifestyle Local News News Now! Perks Programs & Events

County Exec. Hughes not long ago, announces Certified Diverse Vendor Directory

Building on his Small Business Set-Aside Program, Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes announced that a digital directory of participating businesses is now available online on Mercer County’s website.

The  Mercer County New Jersey Certified Diverse Vendor Directory will include New Jersey State certified Women Business Enterprises (WBE), Minority Business Enterprises (MBE), Veteran Owned/Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses (VOB/DVOB) and Small Business Enterprises (SBE).

“The online directory is an effort to support the business enterprises of women, minorities and veterans, along with small businesses,”  Mr. Hughes said.

“Small  businesses are the lifeblood of our local economy, and our goal is to create and identify ways to increase business traffic to certified small businesses and encourage others to become certified. This online directory, managed by our Small Business Outreach Department, is another tool to support our business community.”

In his 2023 State of the County address, County Executive Hughes recognized Job One Lawn and Landscape, a Woman and Minority-owned small business in Ewing. Owned by Jocelyn and Stan Tucker of Ewing, Job One recently won a county contract for $75,000, and are just one of Mercer County’s set-aside success stories.

How will my business benefit?

No-cost advertising. The digital directory will be accessible to all Mercer County departments and the public, and for even greater exposure for businesses listed in the directory Mercer County will share information with municipal purchasing departments within the county. All businesses will be displayed by category and will include the business’s contact information and Capability Statement.

Hands-on help. Mercer’s Small Business Outreach pros will walk you through the process to learn how to participate in the county’s formal bidding process.

Free training. Mercer partners with the Small Business Development Center at The College of New Jersey to review business plans, and obtain funding from the UCEDC.

Please note, only current certified businesses registered with The State of New Jersey SAVI Selective Assistance Vendor Information Portal will be included.

Digital directory accessible at www.mercercounty.org

Sign me up!

 

Questions? Please contact James Chambers, Coordinator of Small Business Outreach at (609) 989-6212, jchambers@mercercounty.org.

Adopted in July 2018, the Qualified Minority-, Women-, Veteran-owned Business or Small Business Set-Aside Program reserves 10 percent of the dollar value of all the county’s goods, professional services and construction contracts to be utilized for qualified businesses. Of that 10 percent, 30 percent is allocated for qualified minority businesses; 30 percent for qualified women-owned businesses; 30 percent for qualified veteran-owned businesses; and 10 percent for small businesses. The Set-Aside Program makes it easier for qualified businesses to contract with the county, as it provides access to $70 million in procurement. An estimated $7 million worth of contracts will be available to eligible businesses as part of the new program.

Categories
Government Local News Programs & Events Regulations & Security

Veterans: VA extends deadline to Aug. 14 for Veterans and survivors to apply for PACT Act benefits

Extension will ensure that no Veteran or survivor misses out on a single day of backdated PACT Act benefits

 

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced lately that Veterans and survivors who apply (or submit their intent to file) for PACT Act benefits by 11:59 p.m. ET on Monday, Aug. 14, 2023 will be eligible to have their benefits backdated to Aug. 10, 2022 – the day that President Biden signed the PACT Act into law.

This is an extension from the original deadline of Aug. 9, 2023. Mercer County Veteran Services encourages all Veterans and their survivors to apply – or submit their intent to file – for PACT Act benefits now by visiting VA.gov/PACT.

Mercer County Veteran Services, in an effort to assist all Mercer veterans and their surviving family members, were to submit intent to file forms to the VA for Veterans and their survivors who have appropriate ID on Friday, Aug. 11, 2023. They may also submit their forms Monday Aug. 14 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, and 2 to 3 p.m.

Please note, Veteran Services will only submit the “Intent to File” forms during these hours. No appointment needed for these help sessions.

Walk-ins are welcome.

For more information, call Mercer County Veteran Services at 609-989-6120.

The office is located at 1440 Parkside Ave., Ewing, N.J.

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Capital City Farm blossoms under new leadership in Trenton

As farm grows, so does artistry

 

The Mercer County Park Commission’s Capital City Farm (CCF), a flourishing urban farm in Trenton, recently welcomed its new Farm Manager, Corinne Gordon.

Corinne Gordon, new manager at Capital City Farm in Trenton.

Gordon brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as Farm Specialist for the Carter Historic Farm in Bowling Green, Ohio. Her background in sustainable agriculture and community engagement is a perfect match for the Park Commission’s mission and goals for this vibrant space, which include providing locally grown produce for those with limited access to fresh food, lush floral cutting gardens — as well as the opportunity to learn about and participate in urban agriculture.

CCF and the Park Commission’s Howell Living History Farm in Hopewell donate tons of fresh produce and grains, including grits and whole wheat flour, to food pantries and soup kitchens throughout Mercer County each year. In 2022, 21 tons of produce were donated.

“We were very fortunate to be able to bring Corinne aboard,” said Aaron T. Watson, Park Commission Executive Director. “With her education and experience, we know that the farm will continue to flourish under her leadership, strengthening our outreach to the community and the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK).”

A bounty of flowers from the cutting gardens at Capital City Farm.

Capital City Farm and TASK have been great partners for many years, even prior to the first harvest, according to Joyce Campbell, TASK CEO.

“Having a farm next door to a soup kitchen is like a dream come true as it’s often difficult to get fresh produce donated,”  Campbell said. “The farm’s donation of fresh produce inspired the installation of a salad bar at TASK, which not only provides nutritious foods, but also provides choice for our patrons, most of whom live in poverty and don’t often have the choices many of us take for granted.”

Artist-turned-farmer, Walter Roberts, displays a portrait he painted.

Many farmers may be natural artists, with their carefully-sown beds, their gentle coaxing of seedlings, and their passion for creating a product that they can be proud of. Indeed, the work of farmers requires the touch and vision of craftsmen, and Capital City Farm has become a living canvas that showcases the beauty of agriculture and art.

Working closely with Gordon is Walter Roberts, an artist-turned-farmer whose unique set of skills have been a mainstay of Capital City Farm since it was first acquired by a coalition of local partners and converted into a farm. Starting as a volunteer and eventually becoming a full-time farmer for the Park Commission, Roberts is largely responsible for the growth and variety of crops produced on the farm, not to mention the art that adorns the fences and other structures there. Roberts’ artistry is on display in the meticulously-managed garden beds and the portraits he paints and displays along the farm’s enclosure.

Raven George, Capital City Farm florist.

Also contributing to the aesthetic is Raven George, New Jersey Conservation Foundation’s Cut Flower Production Manager and CCF florist, who creates beautiful flower bouquets each Saturday from the cockscomb, zinnias, cosmos, and snapdragons grown at the farm. Occasionally, she holds free workshops to teach others how to create their own cut flower arrangements at home.

Capital City Farm’s commitment to sustainability and artistic expression has transformed a once-vacant lot into a dynamic space for the entire community to enjoy. Even beyond the garden beds and fruit trees at the edge of the farm, the work of Corinne Gordon, Walter Roberts, Raven George, and a host of volunteers and interns is fast finding new roots in the neighborhood, and throughout New Jersey’s capital city.

Participants in a floral design workshop show off their creations.
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Older adults display artistic talents at annual Mercer County Senior Art Show

A professional juror has selected the winners from 150 entries in this year’s Mercer County Senior Art Show, which is being held through August 14 at The Conference Center at Mercer on Mercer County Community College’s West Windsor campus.

“Every year I look forward to seeing the talent that Mercer County has to offer, and every year the level of talent excites me,” said Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes.

“What’s especially so amazing about this year is that the number of participants is just about back up to where we were before the COVID pandemic.”

Each year, the Mercer County Office on Aging and the Division of Culture and Heritage partner to produce the Mercer County Senior Art Show. All first-place winners from the County show will advance to the New Jersey Senior Citizen Art Show, which will be held in the fall.

Mercer County residents age 60 or older may submit artwork to the Mercer County Senior Art Show. There is no fee to enter. Submissions must be the original work of the applicant, created within the last three years, and not previously entered in a Mercer County Senior Art Show or the State Senior Art Show. This year, artwork was entered in the following categories: acrylic, craft, digital imagery, mixed media, oil, pastel, photography, sculpture, watercolor, and works on paper.

The winners were selected by professional juror Walter Czajkowski, a lifelong Trenton resident who was the co-owner and co-director of J & W Gallery in New Hope, Pa., for more than 20 years. His gallery represented more than 40 artists, and 60 percent of them are in permanent museum collections. Some of the more notable artists include Yaacov Agam, Glenna Goodacre, Esther Wertheimer, Marlene Baron Summers, and Fred Stein.

Twenty artists from the Mercer County Senior Art show — one “non-professional” winner and one “professional” winner in each of the nine categories — will move on to the State Show. Pictured, from top, are the Best in Show selections: “Peacock” by Orlando Loaiza of Hightstown, Acrylic, Non-Professional; and “Exiles” by William Plank of Lawrenceville, Acrylic, Professional.

Listed below are the individuals who were awarded first, second, and third place, as well as honorable mention in their respective categories.

NON-PROFESSIONAL

Acrylic

1. Orlando Loaiza, BEST IN SHOW, NON-PRO, Hightstown
2. Rochelle Clerkin, Hamilton
3. Annette Osterlund, West Windsor
HM – William Wolfe, Princeton

Craft

1. Darlene Duttry, East Windsor
2. Irwin Stoolmacher, Princeton Junction
3. Rima Phillips, East Windsor
HM – Peggy Bardon, Hamilton

Digital

1. Joel Finger, Pennington

Mixed Media

1. Eileen Johnson, Hamilton
2. Eugenia Travers, Trenton
3. Loreta Macaraig, Hamilton
HM – Susu Pat, Trenton

Oil

1. Andrea Pitluk, Princeton Junction
2. Carlo Fiorentini, Princeton
3. Raj Oberoi, Robbinsville
HM – Karen Brodsky, Princeton Junction; Suzanne Migliori, Hamilton

Pastel

1. Marilyn Sperry, East Windsor
2. Olga Skolka, East Windsor
3. Mary Raftery, Hightstown
HM – Steven Brodel, Ewing

Photography

1. Leslie Rothermal, East Windsor
2. Sari DeCesare, Pennington
3. Bill Boyles, West Windsor
HM – Patrick Compagnucci, Trenton

Sculpture

1. Kay Chen, East Windsor
2. Douglas Watt, Hamilton

Watercolor

1. Marion Crum, Ewing
2. Diane Hughes, East Windsor
3. Lorraine McCormick, East Windsor
HM – Cecelia Hetzer, East Windsor; Donna Kay, West Windsor

Works on Paper

1. Barbara Bingham, Pennington
2. Sulhiniso Rahmatullaeva, Lawrenceville
3. Vivien Cannata, Robbinsville
HM – Earl Brancolino, Hamilton; Marina Lam, East Windsor; David Potts, Hamilton; Susan Tsui, East Windsor

PROFESSIONAL

Acrylic

1. William Plank, BEST IN SHOW, PROFESSIONAL, Lawrenceville
2. Arcelio Brignoni, East Windsor
3. Ed Drago, Robbinsville
HM – Jane Conlon Goble, Lawrenceville; Leni Paquet-Morante, Hamilton

Craft

1. Caryn Newman, Ewing

Digital

1. Maia Reim, West Windsor

Mixed Media

1. Helene Plank, Lawrenceville
2. Renee Kumar, Princeton Junction
3. James Dashcund, Hopewell
HM – Eleni Litt, Princeton

Oil

1. Larry Chestnut, Trenton
2. Pat Proniewski, Hamilton
3. Bo Li, Hightstown
HM – Younghee Kim Chung, Princeton; Maxine Shore, East Windsor

Pastel

1. Lucia Stout, Hopewell
2. Margaret Kalvar-Bushnell, Princeton Junction

Photography

1. Janice Montervino, Trenton
2. Diana Frost, Princeton Junction
3. Lisa Shrager, Hamilton

Sculpture

1. Sue Chiu, Lawrenceville
2. Joy Kreves, Ewing
3. Stefanie Mandelbaum, East Windsor

Watercolor

1. Alexandra Indara, Hamilton
2. Lynn Varga, Hamilton
3. Margaret Simpson, Hamilton
HM – Robert Lowe, Trenton

Works on Paper

1. Eleanor Dock, Ewing
2. Terry Goldstein, East Windsor
3. Frank Pastore, Hightstown

The exhibition also can be viewed here on the County of Mercer website.

The Mercer County Department of Human Services fosters a comprehensive human service delivery system that enhances the health, safety, and quality of life for all residents of Mercer County. The department’s goal is to create an environment of public trust by empowering and strengthening individuals and families, advocating for sound policy, mobilizing resources, and acting as champions for those citizens who are most vulnerable and in need of services.

Through its offices and divisions, the Department of Human Services provides funding to community-based organizations for those organizations to provide direct services to Mercer County residents. The department does not provide direct services to Mercer County residents, but directs Mercer County residents to where they can access services. With this funding, the Department of Human Services complies with procurement practices in accordance with the New Jersey Public Contracts Law 40:A:11-1 et seq.

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Mercer County Clerk continues to issue warnings to passport applicants

TRENTON — Mercer County Clerk Paula Sollami Covello is again issuing warnings to constituents in order to prevent them from wasting their precious time and money.

Residents should know the following:

Passport fees are required at all passport facilities

The U.S. Department of State advises all passport applicants that there are no free passports, nor fee waivers. Instead, it is true that a fee is required for all passport applications.

Payment is required at all Passport Acceptance Facilities, including the Mercer County Connection in Hamilton Township, and the Mercer County Clerk’s Office in Trenton.

There are recent social media videos circulating on the internet, which advise customers that passports can be free by submitting form I-912, but these are false, misleading and incorrect.

The form they are referring to is for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and not for Passport Services. The form is NOT a Department of State form and it is not honored by them.

Mercer County Clerk Paula Sollami Covello explained that videos on social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, are not being produced by government officials, and have created confusion among constituents who believe they (the videos) are accurate.

For further information on the Form I-192 and the individuals eligible, please visit https://www.uscis.gov/i-192 for clear instructions and additional information.

It is recommended for those who are planning international travel to begin submitting their paperwork well in advance of any travel dates, to allow for any unforeseen delays. The current wait times for passport services are 7-9 weeks for expedited services and up to 14 weeks from the time of submission for a regular application. Please note, these times are estimates; if the workload is significantly heavy or light, that number can change.

For detailed information on documentation required for a passport, or office hours at the Mercer County Clerk’s Office, please visit https://www.mercercounty.org/government/county-clerk-/office-services/passportsand for detailed information on services at the Mercer County Connection in Hamilton, please visit https://www.mercercounty.org/departments/county-connection/passport-application-information