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Everyone at the Hillsborough Beacon would like to wish our readers a safe and happy holidays.
VOL. 61, NO. 51
Published every Friday
Friday, December 22, 2017
609-924-3244
centraljersey.com
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Committee approves more than 120 new housing units By Andrew Martins Managing Editor
More than 120 new housing units could pop up near Amwell and Stienmetz Roads in the future, as the Hillsborough Township Committee passed an ordinance amending the zoning features of a more than 28 acre plot of land. During the governing body’s meeting on December 12, officials unanimously approved the ordinance, allowing for the creation of a new “multifamily inclusionary overlay district” in the township code book that would facilitate the construction of 126 residential units. According to Hillsborough
Planning Director David Maski, the measure was needed in order to incentivize the construction of “affordable multifamily housing” on the property. “This ordinance would create an overlay district, which does not change the underlying district...which allows several uses, commercial, offices, etcetera,” Maski said. “Currently, that zone does not permit single-use residential buildings. This ordinance would provide a district that would allow that to happen on this particular tract of land.” The tract of land spans three properties, delineated as block 200.01; lots 4, 5, 6 on the municipal tax map. Of the 126 new hous-
ing units potentially slated for construction on those properties, Maski said 31 would have to meet the affordable housing criteria. According to the ordinance, the minimum tract size for each unit will be 9.3 acres, with at least 430 feet of frontage on Amwell Road. Minimum front setbacks will be 80 feet from Amwell Road and 100 feet from Steinmetz Road, with side yard setbacks required to be at least 20 feet from the tract or lot boundary. The maximum height for each multifamily building is also set at 45 feet, or three stories, tall, with a 20 foot buffer “adjacent to any residential district or existing residential use.”
With the proposal having made its way through the township planning board, some residents from Steinmetz Road said they felt they were “under attack” with this and other previous changes that took place in their community. “First, the bypass bisected our street and split up long-time neighbors, then with the bypass opening, we are battered everyday with the constant noise of the jaybreaking of the large dump trucks, tractor trailers, what have you that enter at Amwell Road onto the bypass,” Bob Kennedy, a Steinmetz Road resident, said. “My fear is that the three stories are a bit much and will come back and encroach on our neighborhood. We
have pretty private backyards, it’s a pretty quiet neighborhood when the trucks aren’t around.” “I think it’s just one more major inconvenience for Steinmetz Road,” he continued. Though some residents offered suggestions for alternative properties nearby that may work better for proposed affordable housing, including the vacant Cost Cutters lot along Route 206, Committeeman Frank DelCore said the municipality was limited in where it could try to locate suitable locations for affordable housing. “We don’t have the luxury of telling people with their property See HOUSING, Page 3A
School board approves transgender policy By Andrew Martins Managing Editor
215-354-3146
Considerations for current and future transgender students within the Hillsborough Township Public School District were recently made official by the board of education, as its members unanimously voted in favor of enacting a new policy. Written in order to comply with state laws already in place to address and combat transgender discrimination, Superintendent Dr. Jorden Schiff said the policy’s passage on during the December 11 meeting helps students who identify as a gender other than their biological one. “The district is committed to providing students with a safe and supportive learning environment,” he said. According to a national survey by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, approximately 75 percent of transgender youths “feel unsafe at school, and those who are able to persevere had significantly lower GPAs, were more likely to miss school out of concern for their safety, and were less likely to plan on continuing their education.” The National Center for Transgender Equality recently took a closer look at New Jersey and the experiences of its transgender students and found that they “reported alarming rates of harassment (63 percent), physical assault (16 percent) and sexual violence (13 per-
cent)” while in the public school system. According to the study, the level of harassment throughout the state’s nearly 600 public school districts was enough that approximately 17 percent of respondents left school in K-12 or higher education. According to the new policy, any issues surrounding a pupil’s gender identity will be handed on a case-by-case basis, with either the superintendent or another designated representative meeting with the student and their parents to discuss those issues. Under the new guidelines, the district will “honor the request of the parent and student to have the student addressed by a name or pronoun” other than the one associated at birth. Though the policy states that the district must maintain a student’s permanent record in accordance with federal and state laws that require information to reflect what appears on a birth certificate, the district will use the requested name and pronouns on other school related documents, such as “student identification cards, library cards, school photographs, grade books, posted lists of student names, and any other places where students’ names are commonly written.” Physical education classes, intramural programs and athletics, and the district’s dress code will be made to accommodate the student’s gender identity. With transgender rights focusing so much on bathroom use and locker room access on the national scale, the school board sided with allowing a transgender student the right to use the facilities that match their gender identity. The use of a “gender neutral” bathroom, if available, would be a matter of choice for any affected students and the district will provide a reasonable alternative changing area for a transgender student at their request. “The policy that is currently in place guarantees transgender students have equal access to the disSee TRANSGENDER, Page 3A
Photo by Scott Friedman
Down to ‘brass’ tacks Members of the horn section of the Raritan Valley Symphonic Band performed with the rest of the ensemble at the "'Tis the Season...To Have Fun!" concert on Dec. 17 at Bridgewater-Raritan High School.
District requests investigation into missing high school funds By Andrew Martins Managing Editor
Detectives at the local and county level have turned their attention to Hillsborough High School in recent days, as a question of an undisclosed amount of missing funds has officials wanting answers. Though district officials continue to be publicly silent on the matter, citing personnel confidentiality and the sensitivity of an ongoing investigation, Police Chief Darren Powell confirmed on Wednesday that the township’s police department has teamed up with the Somerset County Prose-
cutor’s Office to investigate the matter. Powell said the investigation was initiated at the request of Superintendent Dr. Jorden Schiff’s office. Though the investigation is still in its early stages, the chief confirmed that the alleged thefts took place between 2013 and now. No arrests have been made at this time. News of the investigation comes weeks after officials placed the high school’s Athletic Director Michael Fanizzi on administrative leave. Though no one at the district would officially state why the
Index Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2A Classified . . . . . . . . . . C/D/E Lifestyle . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1B
action was taken in the first place, there are as yet unfounded allegations being made in the public that he could be involved in the lost funds. Fanizzi was hired to replace Rocky Forte, who retired after 26 years at HHS, back in 2003. Prior to joining as the high school’s athletic director, he was the athletic director at Belvidere High School. Officials approved a temporary measure to appoint Michael Davis, the district’s supervisor of health and physical education, to fill a short-term administrator vacancy during the Dec. 18 school board meeting.
Call us Movie Times . . . . . . . . . . . 2B Senior Corner. . . . . . . . . . . 4A Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3A
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2A Hillsborough Beacon
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Friday, December 22, 2017
CALENDAR Fire Department toy drive
December - The 2017 Toy Drive is underway and will run through December 20. Drop boxes have been placed at local business throughout the township to collect a new unwrapped gift for a child in need. All items collected are provided to the Hillsborough Township, Office of Social Services to be distributed to local families. Boxes are located at the following businesses: Hillsborough Racquet Ball & Fitness Club, Kohl’s, Applebee’s, Century 21 Worden & Green, Amwell Auto & Tire (Firestone), ERA Realty, Staples, IHOP, JK Design, Planet Fitness, Provident Bank, Municipal Building and Hillsborough Fire Co. #2. For more details you can check in at our web site at www.hillsboroughfireco2.co m.
Clover Hill Reformed Church
Sun. Dec. 24 - The Clover Hill Reformed Church Worship will be at 10 a.m., on Fourth Sunday of Advent, December 24. Our sermon, based upon 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16 and Luke 1:26-38, will be entitled “On the Cusp.”
The Clover Hill Reformed Church Christmas Eve Worship services will be at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, December 24. Our services will be of carols and candles and the sermon, based upon Isaiah 52:7-10, Luke 1:26-38, Luke 1:46-55, Luke 2:1-7, Luke 2:8-20 and John 1:15, will be entitled “Good News for the Poor.” The Clover Hill Reformed Church is located at 890 Amwell Road, Hillsborough, in the historic village of Clover Hill. Since 1834 we have been providing worship, education, fellowship and mission opportunities for individuals and families in Somerset and Hunterdon Counties. For more information, please call 908-369-8451 or visit our website at www.cloverhillchurch.org.
Battle of Princeton talk Thurs. Jan. 4 - On Thursday, January 4, at 7 p.m., the Historical Society of Princeton will host local author Larry Kidder for a lecture in conjunction with the anniversary of the Battle of Princeton. The story of Trenton in the American Revolution is much more than just the two battles that preceded, and led to, the Battle of Princeton. The town played several military and political roles throughout the war and, due to its geographic location, became a crossroads of the Revolution. Author Larry Kidder will examine those roles and how the stories of Trenton and Princeton were closely entwined throughout the war for independence. Admission is free, but reservations are requested
as space is limited: visit princetonhistory.org or call (609) 921-6748 x102.
Oil painting lessons Mon. Jan. 8 - Designed with you in mind, a new series of oil painting lessons will take place at the Nancy Lloyd Fine Art Gallery. Located at 1695 Aquetong Road in New Hope, Penn., instructor Nancy Lloyd will provide independent study for all levels. Students will receive additional attention with a focus on helping the student achieve his or her own goals. Admission for five lessons is $175. Lessons will be available on Mondays from 6:30-9:30 p.m. between Jan. 8 to Feb. 5; Wednesdays from 6:30-9:30 p.m. between Jan. 10 to Feb. 7; and Thursdays from 2-5 p.m. between Jan. 11 through Feb. 8. For more information, contact Nancy at nlloyd@nancylloydfineart.co m or 215-693-1354.
Woman’s Club meeting Tues. Jan. 9 - The Woman’s Club of Hillsborough is having their January meeting on Tuesday, January 9 at 7:30 p.m. at the Hillsborough Municipal Building in the Community Room. The guest speaker for the evening is Dr. Daniella Egan, Director of Audiology from the Speech and Hearing Association. Questions? Contact Carolyn Treffinger at (908) 526-1989.
Slavic dinner Wed. Jan. 10 - St. Mary
Byzantine Catholic Church will sponsor the Slavic Dinner on Wednesday, December 13, from 4 to 7 p.m. The dinner will be held in the St. Mary Parish Center, 1900 Brooks Boulevard, Hillsborough. The cost is $15 for adults (ages 9 and up) and $5 for children (8 and under) and includes all you can eat pirohi, stuffed cabbage, kielbasa and sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, salad, dessert and beverage. Each month a special entrée will be specially selected and prepared by St. Mary’s chef John Pagano. Dinners are held on the second Wednesday of every month throughout the year. Orders to go are available. For more information contact: St. Mary’s at 908725-0615.
Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County Thurs. Jan. 11 - Want to make a difference in your community? Attend a Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County (LVSC) information session to hear how you can change someone’s life by becoming an LVSC volunteer adult literacy tutor. LVSC tutor information sessions will be held at the Franklin Township Library, Tuesday, Jan. 9 from 6 to 6:45 p.m.; at the Bridgewater Library on Wednesday, Jan. 10, from 6 to 7 p.m.; and at the Hillsborough Library, Thursday, Jan. 11, from 6 to 7 p.m. For information, visit www.literacysomerset.org or call 908-725-5430.
NJ Devils Hillsborough Night Sat. Jan. 13 - The “My
Town” Series Program, now in it’s fourth year, highlights New Jersey towns during National Hockey League games played at the Prudential Center in Newark. This is a great event open to all ages. Tickets and Group Packages will be on sale for township residents who would like to attend. The Hillsborough Police Department will present the Honor Guard at the beginning of the game. Hillsborough Township will be recognized throughout the game, including a group welcome on the scoreboard. Following the game, Hillsborough residents will be invited to the ice for a postgame photo! In addition, January 13tis Chico Resch mini-stick night honoring former Devil and current color commentator Glenn “Chico” Resch. The first 9,000 fans in attendance will receive a commemorative mini stick. Tickets are available for purchase at https://groupmatics.events/event/hillsboroughmytown
Neshanic Garden Club meeting The Neshanic Garden Club will hold its regular monthly meeting at 9:45 a.m. on Thursday, January 25, at the Station House on Olive Street in Neshanic Station. The program this month will be “Ohhhh, My Aching Back: Gardening Techniques as We Age”, presented by Mary Anne McMillian. Mary Anne is the volunteer program coordinator at Rutgers Gardens, and graduate from the Horticultural Therapy program at the New York Botanic Gardens. She will show
specialized techniques that will allow people to continue to garden as they age. The program will include scaling back, using lower maintenance plants, labor saving techniques and use of adaptive tools, raised beds and containers. Bring a bag lunch. Dessert and beverage only will be served at 12:00 p.m. Prospective members are encouraged to attend. For further information about club meetings, please contact either club co president, Cathy Heuschkel at 908-359-6881 or Kathy Herrington at 908-3596835. For more information regarding the club, you can visit us at www.neshanicgardenclub.org and like us on Facebook.
2018 Cupid’s Chase
Sat. Feb. 10 - Community Options, Inc. invites runners, walkers, and rollers (baby strollers and wheelchairs) to help make difference in the lives of people with disabilities by participating in their annual Cupid’s Chase 5K. Finisher medals guaranteed while supplies last. Limited Edition Cupid’s Chase shirts will be first come, first served on race day if you do not register by December 31. For more information, please email cupidschase@comop.org.
Send items to amartins@centraljersey.co m or fax to 609-924-3842. The deadline for submissions each week is 3 p.m. on Friday. For details, call 609-874-2163.
Hillsborough Beacon
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Friday, December 22, 2017
3A
AT THE LIBRARY
The Hillsborough Library’s schedule is as follows: Monday through Thursday: 9:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday: 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday: 1-5 p.m. The library is looking for reliable teen volunteers to help out at various programs. Community service hours will be awarded to all volunteers at the end of the school year for their attendance and space is limited. Through the month of December, view the collections of Wayne Mathisen and Judith Snedeker. SCLSNJ’s Hillsborough Library branch will be closed December 24-25 and December 31-January 1, 2018. Visit SCLSNJ.org or call 908-369-2200 for information or to register. Program dates and times are subject to change. All programs are free and registration is required unless otherwise indicated. Adult programs (registration required): • Writers Group - Writers can receive constructive feedback at these sessions, during which participants read their work and members offer suggestions. Thurs. December 28, 7-8 p.m. • Spanish Conversation Group - Native Spanish speakers Rosa Maria Merlo and Alicia Fontana will lead a new Spanish conversation group. Basic knowledge of Spanish is preferable, but all are welcome. Wed. January 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m. • Geeky Grown-Ups Group - Geeky Grown-Ups, otherwise known as adults who are enthusiastic about sci-fi, fantasy, and gaming topics, meet at the Hillsborough branch. Wed. January 3, 6:30-8:30 p.m. • New Year, New You: Pilates - This mat based exercise class strengthens and tones muscles; improves posture; provides flexibility and balance; and unites body and mind. Mon. January 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m. • English Conversation Group - Practice speaking English in a friendly setting. Basic English skills required. Hosted by The Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County. Mon. January 8, 7-8:30 p.m.; Wed. January 10, 10-11:30 a.m. • Your Home, Your Haven: I Own a Home, Now What
- The Central Jersey Housing Resource Center (CJHRC) will present a post-purchase program with tips and information for new and existing homeowners. Tues. January 9, 7-8:30 p.m. Youth programs (registration required): • Tail Waggin’ Tutors - Each registered child will get 10 minutes reading to a specially trained dog. Grades K-4. Fri. December 22, 3:45-4:45 p.m. • littleBits Gadgets and Gizmos: Bitbot - Learn how to create a Bitbot and then remix it. Grades 3-6. Sat. December 23, 10-11 a.m. • Craft in the Children’s Room: Mittens - Create a craft in the Children’s Room while supplies last. All ages. Wed. December 27, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. • Frozen Sing-Along Movie - Have fun during your winter break and sing along with the “Frozen” movie on the big screen. Dress as your favorite character. Ages 3+. Wed. December 27, 2-4 p.m. • STEAM Lab: Robotics Obstacle Course - Get a handson experience as you explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Design, and Math (STEAM) concepts while gaining 21st century skills. Grades 5-8. Sat. December 30, 2-4 p.m. • Crafts for Kids - Children will create a fun craft. Grades 3-5. Tues. January 2, 4:30-5:15 p.m. • Favorite Characters Storytime: 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Kick-Off - Celebrate the launch of 1000 Books Before Kindergarten with songs, a craft, and stories from some of your favorite characters. All ages. Thurs. January 4, 10-11 a.m. • Storytime: Drop In - Enjoy stories together and build language skills. All ages. Thurs. January 4, 1-1:20 p.m. • Teen Advisory Board - Earn community service hours and be the teen voice at the SCLSNJ Hillsborough Library branch. Grades 7-12. Thurs. January 4, 6-7 p.m. • Reading Buddy - Your child will increase their love of reading while reading aloud with a reading buddy volunteer. Grades K-4. Sat. January 6, 2-4 p.m. • Monday Morning Playtime - A social time with toys
available for play. This program will have different topics of discussion along with recommended resources. This week: Samantha Nunzio, RD from ShopRite. Parents/caregivers with children up to 36 months. Mon. January 8, 1010:45 a.m. • littleBits Gadgets and Gizmos: Art Spinner - Learn how to create an art spinner and then remix it. Grades 3-6. Mon. January 8, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Volunteer Opportunities Interested in being a teen volunteer at SCLSNJ’s Hillsborough Library branch? Email hil.teens.scls@gmail.com for an application and additional information. Grades 7-12. Homework Help Center Mondays and Thursdays, 4-6 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 4-8 p.m. October 16 - December 14 The homework help center is available to students in grades 3-12 in all subjects. Drop-in only, no registration needed. Writing Center Get help with informational and creative writing assignments, proofreading, grammar, spelling, college essay peer review, and midterms/finals writing assignments. The writing center is available to students in grades 3-12. Dropin only, no registration needed. Tuesdays - Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Library resources Book A Librarian - Get personalized help with the online catalog, databases, research questions, storytime plans, locating materials, library apps and readers’ advisory. Parents, children and teens can request an appointment at the Youth Services desk by filling out a simple form. All ages. Bag of Books to Go - You can request, at the Children’s Desk, a bag filled with books related to a theme. Book Discussion Kits - Do you belong to a book discussion group or would you like to start one? Are you looking for a good book to share and have copies for everyone in your group? Our book discussion kits contain ten books that can be checked out for six weeks.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Township ethics board failed its duties To the editor:
On December 9, the township Ethical Standards Board held a hastily announced hearing to ostensibly answer an ethics complaint lodged by more than twenty Hillsborough residents regarding a real estate transaction between Township Committeewoman Gloria McCauley and Business Administrator Anthony Ferrera. Since this body hadn’t met in many years, and since it was already almost two months since the complaint had been served, the following was shocking but not surprising: • Ethics Board members had to be sworn in, even though it was already December. A chair had to be selected, since that also was never done in 2017. • Only four members of the six-member board participated in the meeting. One member supposedly recused himself, while
another apparently didn’t show. The board could have selected a new member or members before this hearing or waited until a new member was chosen to have the hearing, but they went forward anyway, lacking two of six votes. • Another member, in fact a lawyer, did not recuse himself, even though he is paid counsel for the Hillsborough Municipal Authority. Why didn’t he resign, or at least recuse himself? • The ethics board refused to take up the Burchette complaint and stated that the reason for this was pending litigation. • Yet, when both complaints were filed, township attorney Willard came right out in the press calling the complaint a partisan attack timed before the local election and declaring the accused innocent of violations. What about the “pending litigation” then? • The ethics board had not met in advance of the hearing to study the parts of the ethics code said to be in violation, let alone to review the ethical standards the committee is sworn to uphold. I am not even a signatory to the com-
Transgender Continued from Page 1A trict’s programs, facilities and activities,” Schiff said. While the approved policy states that the school board “believes the responsibility for determining a student’s gender identity rests with the student, or in the case of young students not yet able to advocate for themselves, with the parent,” board member Thomas Kinst wondered if the district was considering the parents in the policy. “I want to be compassionate and sensitive, but there’s also a parental responsibility and parental
rights and I want to make sure we strike a balance there,” he said. Though the policy states that the parents would be involved in the decision only when the student in question cannot “advocate for themselves,” district officials said there would likely not be a specific age when student can make that determination. Instead, factors like a student’s maturity level and cognitive ability, among other things, would be considered. “What’s tricky with these policies is that certainly parental input in that decision is important, how-
ever, what you have is a po-
over by eminent domain, rebuild and cleaned up into affordable housing structures,” Tomson said. “That bill went nowhere in the legislature. It sat there even though the senator was the chairman of the committee.” “The legislature and the
governor did nothing to save us from affordable housing mandates,” he continued. “It’s crazy...we’re being forced to build affordable housing without the infrastructure to take care of it...no one is accounting for that at the legislative or governor’s level.”
tential situation where perhaps the parents and student do not agree...but if we in some way do not honor the student’s request and functionally
discriminating
against the student, then the school district is potentially liable for a claim there,” the board attorney said. “It’s tricky and often done on a case-by-case basis.”
Housing Continued from Page 1A what they should do with it. We have to look at areas where development may be possible, but ultimately the owner of the property would have to comply with the zoning requirements,” DelCore said. “The owner has to be willing to build something.” Committeeman Doug Tomson, a long-time critic of state-mandated affordable housing requirements, pointed to failed legislation in Trenton that could have allowed for vacant commercial properties to be used to help meet those requirements. “Senator Ray Lesniak had legislation that would have allowed properties like the Cost Cutters to be taken
Legal Notices NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: that the Board of Ethics will hold a Special Meeting on the following date: Saturday, December 23, 2017 at 9:00am LOCATION: HILLSBOROUGH TOWNSHIP MUNICIPAL COMPLEX The Peter J. Biondi Building 379 South Branch Road Hillsborough, NJ 08844 PURPOSE: Matter of Complaint Against Gloria McCauley and Pamela Borek THIS NOTICE POSTED AT: · HILLSBOROUGH TOWNSHIP MUNICIPAL COMPLEX COMMUNICATED TO: · HILLSBOROUGH BEACON · COURIER NEWS HB, 1x, 12/22/17 Fee: $23.25
plaint, yet when I saw Attorney Willard come right out in the press before the hearing to absolve the accused, when I heard one of the board members announce his opinion before even hearing the case or members giving questionable legal/ethical reasons as to why they felt the accused had not violated ethical code, or worse yet, just saying the accused must be ethical because they know them to be without even really reviewing the code, then I knew this ethics board was not upholding their charge. Since when are members of our township committee and staff untouchable by ethics law, basically beyond the reach of enforcement of our own township and state code? So what was a surprise? That this ethi-
cal standards body was apparently set up to protect those in power and all of their paid lawyers and law firms, against the public, the people of Hillsborough. An ethics board is supposed to make sure those who have the public trust, avoid even the appearance of being unethical by following a fairly proscribed code. If the township government wants to abdicate responsibility, residents will seek the approval of a higher level ethics board, while keeping this issue at the forefront in 2018. Meryl Bisberg Hillsborough
4A Hillsborough Beacon
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Friday, December 22, 2017
HILLSBOROUGH SENIOR CORNER CHAPTER A
tels, 16 meals. Cost - $3,749, double. For information on any of our upcoming trips, call Diana Reinhardt at 908-369-4362. Â News & Notes All Hillsborough seniors age 60 and older are invited to join Chapter A. Younger spouses of seniors are also eligible for membership. Dues are $5 a year and new members may join at any meeting. Call Dorrie Guarniero at 908-3348091 with questions. General meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month unless otherwise announced. Executive Board meetings are held on the fourth Wednesday of every month, unless otherwise noted. On meeting days, doors open at 11:30 a.m., allowing time to review upcoming events and make reservations. Refreshments are available when doors open and after the meeting. Help our Food Bank by bringing an item to each meeting. The suggestion box is available at each meeting. Visit us at www.HillsboroughSeniorsChapterA.webs.com. — Gene Reinhardt Publicity Chairperson
At our general meeting on January 4, we will start an exciting new year with Chinese Folk Dancers performing. On February 1, there will be a fashion show. Trips & Programs We are featuring our wonderful trip to the Golden Isles of Georgia from April 15-21. Guided tour of beautiful and historic sites in Georgia and South Carolina: Jekyll Island tram tour and mansions, Beaufort, St. Simons Island and lighthouse, Savannah with a harbor cruise, theatre show, mansion and museums. Seven days, nine meals. Reservations close Feb. 1. Cost $1,259 double includes gratuities. Depart from the Hillsborough Municipal Building. at 7:30 a.m. Tues. Jan. 2 - Book Club will meet at 2 p.m. in the Senior Activity Room. Attendees will share a report of their latest reading. Thurs. Feb. 22 - Sands Casino in Bethlehem, Penn. Bus pickup local at 10 a.m. Five hour stay. Tickets are $30 and come with $35 for slots. Lunch on your own. Maritime Canada Coastal Wonders - with all its rugged and pristine beauty. Aug. 22 to Sept. 1, 2018. See Halifax, Peggy’s Cove, Cape Breton, Cabot Trail, Prince Edward IsCHAPTER B land, Anne of Green Gables, Hopewell Rocks, Bay of Fundy and Lunenburg. This Collette trip includes hometown The next monthly meeting will be held Jan. 11, when pickup, airfare Newark to/from Halifax, 10 nights in top ho- new members will be welcomed. The doors will open at 10:30 a.m. for members to buy tickets for future trips and other events. You can bring a bag lunch if you want. Coffee and tea will be provided. At regular meetings, business meetings start at noon. Doors to the activity room open at 10:45 a.m., while the www.hillsboroughbeacon.com multi-purpose room will open at 11:30 a.m. 421 Route 206 Hillsborough, NJ 08844 Tickets for all special events will only be sold at Bernard Kilgore, Group Publisher 1955-1967 monthly meetings before the event. They include the folMary Louise Kilgore Beilman, Board Chairman 1967-2005 lowing: spring luncheon, June celebration, June anniverJames B. Kilgore, Publisher, 1980-2016 sary (every five years), fall luncheon and holiday party. The next bingo will be held in February. Doors will open Andrew Martins Joseph Eisele at 11:30. Cost is $3.00 for one double card, $5.00 for two; Managing Editor Publisher this includes lunch with two hot dogs, chips, a drink, and a 2016 - Present dessert, along with prizes and surprises. Mike Morsch Donna Kenyon If you have a new email address or want to be added to Regional Editor Executive Editor Club B’s email list, see Ralph Fariello at the next meeting. Activities and Trips December 29: Stony Hill Inn in Hackensack. Year End Michele Nesbihal Celebration. Tickets are $88. Family style lunch, music, General Manager mnesbihal@centraljersey.com dancing, two drink vouchers and more. Trips in 2018: Save these dates. Signups will take place in January and February with details to follow: Corporate Offices Doolan’s, Spring Lake - March 16 198 Route 9 North, Suite 100 Manalapan, N.J. 07726 Martin Guitar Factory, Nazareth, Penn. - April 24 Ocean City, Md - May 6-8 (609) 924-3244 If you want to bring a friend on any overnight trip, they FAX (732) 780-4678 do not have to be a club member. If any trips are sold out, © Packet Media, LLC. 2017. All Rights Reserved. you may call to add your name to a waiting list. On all trips, you should bring photo ID and health insurance card(s). Community Events Keep in mind the township’s Mr. Fix-It program, run by the Social Services Department. Minor home repairs can
be arranged on Wednesdays between 8 and 11 a.m. for Hillsborough seniors 60 and older. Call 908-369-3880 for details. Free exercise classes for all ability levels are available to all Hillsborough seniors in the municipal building Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for 45 minutes — right where we hold our meetings. Certified instructors lead classes. Free transportation is available. Call 908-369-3880 for details. — Chickie Haines Call 908-874-3231
SENIOR ROOM
In the Senior Activity Room, shuffleboard, pool table, darts and ping pong are available for all Hillsborough seniors to use in the first and largest area. Cards and games are played in the middle area. Computers are in the third area for your use and enjoyment. Monday: Knitting, crocheting and needlepoint from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday: Bridge, pinochle and other card games Wednesday: Mah jongg from noon to 4 p.m. Canasta from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday: Bridge from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Friday: Mah jongg from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
SOMERSET COUNTY SENIOR WELLNESS CENTER
Center schedule: December 22 & 29 - Board Game Gathering, 9:30 a.m. Come join the fun and connect with new friends. A variety of familiar and fun board games are at the center. Join us as we play games, converse and enjoy a good time. December 22 - Christmas Through the Years. Who came up with the idea of a candy cane? Why do we send Christmas Cards? Why do we open our presents watching the Yule Log? Enjoy a walk down memory lane as we explain Christmas traditions and how they came about. December 25 & 26 - Holiday - Center Closed December 27 - Mahjong Club, 12:30 - 3:00 p.m. Have you always wanted to learn how to play mahjong or are you familiar with the game but just in need of fellow players? Lessons and refreshers are available. Please call 908-3698700 for more information. December 27 - Add a word and Other Word Games, 10:45 a.m. Let’s put on our thinking caps and enjoy some word games and challenges. December 28 - “Who Am I?” 10:15 a.m. Ask clever questions while exercising your mental abilities to determine the identity of famous historians, celebrities, authors and public figures. December 28 - Puzzle Club, 10:00 a.m. Strike up conversation, make new friends and enjoy assembling puzzles. December 29 - Bingo Bonanza, 10:45 -11:45 a.m. Bingo is more than just an exciting activity. Researchers have found that playing Bingo has multiple benefits. It promotes socialization, strengthens hand-eye coordination, and takes concentration which improves listening and short term memory skills.
Friday, December 22, 2017
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From left: Evan Alexander Smith, Tracey Conyer Lee, Don Stephenson, Kate Wetherhead and James Ludwig in “Ebenezer Scrooge's Big Playhouse Christmas Show.”
here are so many Scrooges to choose from — Alastair Sim, George C. Scott, Patrick Stewart, Jim Carrey, Mr. Magoo, Fred Flintstone, the list goes on and on. No way we need yet another version of “A Christmas Carol,” right? Wrong! A genuine Christmas miracle is taking place at the Bucks County Playhouse with its take on Charles Dickens’ oft-told tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and the Christmas Eve that changes his life. “Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big Playhouse Christmas Show” is a fast-paced, funny and surprisingly touching version of “A Christmas Carol.” It’s playing in New Hope, Pennsylvania, through Dec. 31 and missing out on this would be a real humbug. The show is set at the Playhouse itself. In addition to seeing Scrooge’s story, we also find out some “history” about New Hope and the Playhouse. Five actors welcome us to the theater, which is bare of sets, save for a backdrop and a few mobile pieces. They tell us we’re about to hear the ghost story that’s referenced in the song “It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” It turns out that story took place in New Hope, which is known for its haunted spaces — The Logan Inn, The Aaron Burr House, the ladies room at The Raven. One of the actors, Don Stephenson, takes on the role of Scrooge, the other four will play every other part. The script by Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen gets lots of laughs through those references to New Hope and surrounding towns, and also through the conceit of four actors playing dozens of actors. The jokes come at a fast and furious pace. Characters throw snow and make swooshing noises to represent the wind when opening the door of Scrooge’s business. Evan Alexander Smith plays a roaring fire in Scrooge’s fireplace, Kate Wetherhead plays a picture hanging on a wall, and when playing the Ghost of Christmas Past, Tracey Conyer Lee does a bit where she acts like a modern-day flight attendant.
Bucks County Playhouse marks the season with a laugh-filled and touching take on ‘A Christmas Carol’ By Anthony Stoeckert
James Ludwig as Jacob Marley and Don Stephenson as Scrooge.
But here’s the thing, those antics don’t get in the way of the story. Watch Stephenson during the heartbreaking scene when Scrooge is shown the moment where his younger self lets the woman he loves leave him. She kisses young Scrooge on the cheek, and the older Scrooge, watching from above, touches his cheek as if he could still feel her lips pressed against his face. Another great moment involves
Tiny Tim. Smith plays the young boy hysterically, by putting his head in the middle of a tiny puppet-like costume. But later, when the child dies, we feel the suffering of his parents — gags don’t get in the way of heart here. James Ludwig is another of the actors. He was a regular in McCarter Theatre’s production of “A Christmas Carol” for years, playing Cratchit, Scrooge’s nephew Fred, and other characters over 12 productions in Princeton. It’s nice to see him in this story again, and he gets lots of big laughs while also getting the audience
to shed a few tears. Stephenson is a fine Scrooge, and delivers some biting lines. He tells the women collecting money to help the needy (Lee and Wetherhead play the women and are hysterical in the scene) that if the destitute die, “The world won’t miss another poor person.” When Bob Cratchit gives him a present, an imperfect toy made by Tiny Tim, Stephenson viciously snaps, “A gift is nothing more than an invitation for gratitude, and I have none to give.” The show is an absolute delight. Other jokes involve Scrooge blaming his first ghostly visit on his dinner — an egg from Wawa. A group of carolers is named Sons of Pitches, Fezziwig’s business is making wigs. When Scrooge asks what’s wrong with Tiny Tim, he’s told it’s the worst thing possible — a pre-existing condition. One of my favorite moments is Wetherhead as the Ghost of Christmas Present — staring at her phone, snapping her gum, displaying an attitude that tells Scrooge to get over himself. The scenic design, by Michael Carnahan, is simple but beautiful and effective. A backdrop creates a moody scene of shadowy doors and windows, two dark wooden staircases take on as many roles as the actors and are swiftly moved around the stage to create various settings. The director Josh Rhodes, along with the cast, has created a perfect balance of big laughs and genuine emotional moments. It’s a brisk show, less than 90 minutes, and it wraps up with Scrooge opening the Bucks County Playhouse itself, to establish a place that reminds us that there is more that connects us and divides us. That's an evergreen message and the perfect way to celebrate the holidays — and theater itself.
“Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big Playhouse Christmas Show” continues at the Bucks County Playhouse, 70 S. Main St., New Hope, Pennsylvania, through Dec. 31. Tickets cost $45-$75; buckscountyplayhouse.org; 215-8622121.
Also Inside: Welcoming 2018 with the New Jersey Capital Philharmonic • Kevin Brown headlines a New Year’s Eve comedy show
2 TIMEOFF
December 22, 2017
December 22, 2017
TIMEOFF 3
COMEDY By Keith Loria
Laughing in the New Year Comedian Kevin Brown of “30 Rock” will ring in 2018 at Princeton Catch a Rising Star
I
nstead of staying in this New Year’s Eve, Princeton Catch a Rising Star is providing a great reason to get out and enjoy some laughs, with a comedy celebration featuring Kevin Brown, who played Dot-Com on the sitcom classic “30 Rock.” The evening will begin with a gala ball at 6 p.m., followed by the standup show featuring Brown and Mike Marino is expected to start between 9:45 p.m. and 10 p.m. Fans of Tina Fey’s “30 Rock” were quick to fall for Brown’s character, Walter “Dot-Com” Slattery, a key member of the entourage of Tracy Jordan (played by Tracy Morgan). Dot-Com had an intimidating presence, which fit his role as bodyguard, but also had an intellect and creativity that Tracy and other characters were oblivious to. While most people think the show’s writers came up with his nickname, Brown says that he was known by the moniker years before appearing on “30 Rock.” “It’s not a name that Tina Fey gave me, she heard Tracy Morgan calling me that name because that’s what I was using in my comedy sets when I first met him,” Brown says. “He introduced me to her like that and she loved the Kevin Brown will bring his comedy to Princeton name so she put it in the script.” Catch a Rising Star on New Year’s Eve. Brown is looking forward to the Catch gig, though he does admit that experience has taught him that New Year’s into comedy and had no inkling he would be doing shows are different. standup as a career. He was a party promoter at 18, but “There is a major distraction that we all face on New after one disastrous event at the Newark School Stadium, Year’s Eve, so when you perform on that night, you have he lost all his money and fell into a two-week depression. to sense how close you are to that distraction,” he says. “My brother was doing a comedy show and I bought a “If it‘s 10 and people are running around looking for horns ticket to the show, and I’m sitting in the audience waiting and stuff, it could be so distracting that the person on stage for the show to start, and after 10 minutes my brother is a tool. As it gets closer to the midnight hour, it gets came out and asked me to host the show,” he says. “I worse. This is something a comedian has to consider.” thought he was kidding since I never did anything like that Not that he doesn’t think it’s a great way to welcome before. But I used to be a rapper, being from the projects the new year, since he’ll be doing what he loves, but he in the Bronx, and said I would do it if I got my money tries as hard as he can to keep things focused. back from the ticket.” “It can also be really fabulous,” Brown says. “When With his first taste on stage, Brown decided he wanted alcohol like this is involved, you have to be prepared for to do more. He and his brother Dre even opened their own the dynamic that can come.” comedy club, the famed Uptown Comedy Club, considBrown’s planning to use his set to tell stories about his ered by many to be the birthplace of hip-hop comedy. life, family and adventures, though he knows he’ll have “I realized that I love comedy but I hate comedians,” to divert from his normal set because of the occasion. Brown says. “Many are undependable, and so I decided “When you do a TV show, you’re asked to submit your to just do it myself, and I taught myself comedy so if set and sometimes they even put it on a teleprompter, so someone didn‘t show up, I would take their place.” your entire set is laid out for you,” he explains. “When He started going to other open mics and comedy clubs you perform for a holiday like this, it’s like Wyatt Earp, in the city and built up his craft. Brown then started going and there’s no rules. We’re gunslingers and we have to do on TV auditions and started booking some parts. Over his whatever it takes to bring joy and laughter to the crowd. I career, Brown has been featured on NBC’s “Last Comic won’t know what I’m doing until I’m up there.” Standing,” B.E.T.’s “Comic View” and MTV’s “Human He expects the audience to be wonderful, though, and Giant.” He’s also known for roles in the hip-hop martial is looking forward to the night. arts movie, “Empty Hands” and 2006’s “A Merry Little In his younger days, Brown never had a desire to go
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Christmas.” He’s continuing actor, including a role in the upcoming “Ocean’s Eight” and a movie where plays a comic. “So I get to perform in a film. I‘ve never had my standup immortalized in a film before. I’m looking forward to that. I think that will brand me in a way that I haven’t been before.” Also appearing on the Catch a Rising stage that night will be comedian Mike Marino, affectionately known as New Jersey’s Bad Boy. His standup material ranges from cutting edge observations of everyday life to his Italian family roots; which recently spun into a television pilot, “Re-Constructing Jersey.”
Kevin Brown and Mike Marino will headline the New Year’s Eve show at Princeton Catch a Rising Star at the Hyatt Regency, 102 Carnegie Center Drive, West Windsor, Dec. 31. The gala ball will begin at 6 p.m., followed by the comedy show. For information on pricing and dinner options, go to www.catcharisingstar.com or call 609-9878018.
Now taking reservations for your family and business Holiday Parties and New Year’s Eve Celebrations $29
4 TIMEOFF
December 22, 2017
CROSSWORD PUZZLE “MAGNETISM” By PAUL COULTER
91 Word coined by writer Capek 93 Creek croaker ACROSS 95 Tube, so to speak 1 16th-century date 96 *1985 #1 hit for Paul Young 4 Big name in shoes 101 All the time 8 Batted 102 Bit of work 13 See 2-Down 103 Pretenses 17 Rail commonly found in 107 Poetic foot water? 110 __-up: hybrid musical piece 18 Perry of fashion 111 Church contribution 20 Kind of acid in proteins 112 Wrinkly fruit 21 Any minute, old-style 113 Maxim that applies to pairs 22 *Criminal justice supervisor hiding together in the 25 Saturn vehicles? answers to starred clues 26 Placing side by side 117 Like Beethoven, late in life 27 Cries of support 118 Agree to 28 Golf shot 119 Composer of the short 30 Wrinkly dog piano pieces “Le Yachting” 31 Common conjunction and “Le Golf” 32 Hanker 120 Hockey’s Bobby et al. 33 *“Hail to thee, blithe Spirit!” 121 Go around in circles poet 122 Goes up and down 41 __ Dictionary 123 Once uncool sort who’s 44 Arles assents now sort of cool 45 Bury 124 Inquisitive-sounding letter 46 Amber __ 47 Delhi wrap DOWN 48 A little lower? 1 Transmute 50 Paper size: Abbr. 2 With 13-Across, write (to) 51 Anime cousin 3 Sensation before a delivery 53 *Get worse, with no way to 4 Specialty stop 5 Medical center 59 Do serious damage to 6 Sleep like __ 60 Hwy. 7 “Delta of 61 “My man!” Venus” author 62 Notched, as a maple leaf 8 Symbols of 63 Back in the bay thinness 65 1965 King arrest site 9 Author Martin 67 Shortened, as a dict. 10 [Not a typo] 68 Ballade’s final stanza 11 Arles article 70 Complete 12 Company 73 Assume as fact whose 75 Assist German 76 Eats or drinks pronunciation 79 Israel’s Golda has two 80 *Nero Wolfe title that plays syllables on the start of an old adage 13 Victory 85 Looked like a wolf? symbol 87 Oral health org. 14 Dope 88 Dovetail 15 Cozy corner 89 In the Aegean 16 90 “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” newsman
17 19 23 24 29 32 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 48 49 52 54 55 56 57 58 64 65 66 69
Massachusetts motto opener Healthful retreats André Previn’s adopted daughter Quaker in the woods Dentist’s directive Heat unit 2017 World Series champ Texter’s “seize the day” Devotee Sword handles It’s usually just before dessert Tilter’s tool Knighted English composer Thirst (for) Cold War initials Deeply engrossed Cracker topper Long-billed wader Elementary particle Stop on the Turin-Genoa railway Upper, in Ulm Break off Comet’s path Needle point? Deluxe Pop Many a retired racehorse Tarzan’s realm Dundee disagreements
70 71 72 74 76 77 78 81 82 83 84 86
Ham it up Israeli desert Piña colada garnish? Declaim Boo relative Sheltered in the Aegean Bed board Hard thing to kick Slate or Salon Change the decor of Winding-road sign image How Steven Wright jokes
92 93 94 95 97 98 99 100 104 105 106
are spoken Ear specialist’s science Trunks Moral obligations “Be silent,” in music Formally approve Baking supplies Fling Drifted gently Book with a lock Yves’ ink PD ranks
107 108 109 110 111 114 115 116
“My man!” Kept in barrels, maybe Decked out Like early Elvis albums Bone head? Adept Wages Suffix with Caesar
Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis
THINGS TO DO
HOLIDAYS STAGE “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play,” Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey’s F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre on the Drew University campus, 36 Madison Ave., Madison. A group of actors and technicians gather in a 1940s radio station at holiday time to perform a live broadcast of It’s a Wonderful Life. Replete with Foley sound effects, commercials from the era, and sprinkled throughout with a generous dose of humor and music, this charming piece brings the famous story to life, through Dec. 30; www.shakespearenj.org; 973-408-5600. “A Christmas Carol,” McCarter Theatre, 91 University Place, Princeton. David Thompson’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’ story of the miserly Scrooge and the spirits who change his life on Christmas Eve, through Dec. 31; www.mccarter.org; 609-258-2787. “Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big Playhouse Christmas Show,” Bucks County Playhouse, 70 S. Main St., New Hope, Pennsylvania. Comedic take on classic story with five actors, three ladders and lots of music, Dec. 23; 11 a.m., 2 p.m. bcptheater.org; 215-862-2121. CHILDREN’S THEATRE “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” Music Mountain Theatre, Route 1483 Route 179, Lambertville. Stage version of the holiday special featuring Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy Linus and the rest of the “Peanuts” gang, Dec. 23, 3, 8 p.m. $22, $20 seniors/students; www.musicmountaintheatre.org. JAZZ/POP/ROCK, ETC. “It’s a Fruitcake” The Rrazz Room, 6426 Lower York Road, New Hope, Pennsylvania. Tom Orr and Meagan Hill, host and co-host of the former Bucks County Cabaret, will present an evening of merry musical moments and crazy yuletide parodies, Dec. 22, 7:30 p.m., $20; www.therrazzroom.com; 1-888-596-1027. The Richie Cole Quartet, “Holiday Madness,” Randy Now’s Man Cave, 134 Farnsworth Ave., Bordentown. Holiday concert by jazz saxophonist, Dec. 22, 8 p.m. (this performance is sold out), 10 p.m. $15; www.mancavenj.com; 609-424-3766. Music Mountain Theatre Holiday Concert, Music Mountain Theatre, Route 1483 Route 179, Lambertville. Concert showcasing the theater’s resident performers including Louis Palena, Jordan Brennan, Lauren Brader, Rhett Commodaro, Jen Gurksy, Blair Johnson, Jill Palena, Jenna Parrilla, Katie Rochon, and Jared Williams. A 17piece band led by Patrick Tice-Carroll will accompany singers through arrangements of “Baby it’s Cold Outside,” “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm,” “All I Want for Christmas is You,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “White Christmas” and more, Dec. 22, 8 p.m., Dec. 23, 3, 8 p.m. $22, $20 seniors/students; www.musicmountaintheatre.org. MUSEUMS Trenton’s Christmas Past, Trenton City Museum at Ellarslie, 199 Parkside Ave., Trenton. Exhibit featuring historical photos of downtown Trenton during the holiday shopping period. From Trenton Magazine, Curator Karl Flesch has compiled images of advertisements from dozens of Trenton stores with their suggested gift ideas, through Jan. 15; www.ellarslie.org; 609-989-3632. MISCELLANY Festival of Trees, Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton St., Princeton. The holiday tradition sees the museum’s galleries, hallways and porches decorated by local businesses, garden clubs, and non-profit organizations, through Jan. 7. Hours: Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. $10, $8 seniors/students; www.morven.org; 609-924-8144. Kwanzaa Celebration, Lawrence Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville. Traditional Kwanzaa celebration that may include a variety of songs, dances, African drumming, storytelling, spoken word, poetry and a film. The
‘And to all, a good night’ “So Long Santa” is among the snowy scenes by Robert Hummel on view in “Wintertime in Princeton” at Chez Alice cafe and gourmet bakery, 5 Palmer Square West, Princeton, through Jan. 31. Cafe hours are Sun. 8 a.m. to 6, Mon.-Wed. 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Thurs.-Fri. 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, go to www.artistroberthummel.com. Kwanzaa cultural symbols that represent values and concepts of this seven day holiday will be available for viewing. This educational program will be facilitated by Zarinah Shakir, the producer and host of “Perspectives of Interfaith,” Dec. 28, 6 p.m. Registration suggested; www.mcl.org; 609989-6920. NEW YEAR’S EVE “Simply Barbra! An Elegant New Year’s Soiree,” The Rrazz Room, 6426 Lower York Road, New Hope, Pennsylvania. Steven Brinberg’s show offers seasonal tunes and beloved Streisand classics. Brinberg has been portraying the legendary superstar for over a decade all over the world, Dec. 31, 8 p.m., $45-$60; www.therrazzroom.com; 1-888596-1027. “Salute to Vienna,” State Theatre, 15 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick. Inspired by Vienna’s beloved New Year’s Concert, the show blends European singers and dancers with the Strauss Symphony of America for a rich cultural experience, Dec. 31, 6 p.m., $55-$125; www.stnj.org; 732246-7469. The Capital Philharmonic of New Jersey, Patriots Theatre at the War Memorial, 1 Memorial Drive, Trenton. New Year’s Eve concert featuring Paul Dukas’ “Sorcerer’s Apprentice” and “Tango” from the movie “Scent of a Woman” as arranged by John Williams and with violin soloist Meichen Barnes. The evening’s festivities will be hosted by WWFM radio personality David Osenberg, Dec. 31, 8 p.m. $40-$75; www.capitalphilharmonic.org; 215893-1999.
STAGE “An Act of God,” George Street Playhouse, 103 College Farm Road, New Brunswick. Comedy in which the Almighty (played by Kathleen Turner) attempts to correct people’s misconceptions of her, through Dec. 23; www.georgestplayhouse.org; 732-846-2895. “The Sound of Music,” State Theatre, 15 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick. Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical story of Maria and the von Trapp Family, Dec. 22, 8 p.m., Dec. 23, 2, 8 p.m., Dec. 24, 11 a.m. Tickets cost $35-$98; www.stnj.org.
MUSEUMS Historical Society of Princeton at Updike Farmstead, 354 Quaker Road. Frank Lloyd Wright at 150: The Architect in Princeton. The exhibition features architectural drawings by Wright from the Historical Society’s collection, telling the story of Wright’s sole Princeton clients and the Frank Lloyd Wright house that could have been, through Dec. 31. Hours: Wed.-Sun. noon to 4 p.m. $4; princeton-
history.org. Princeton University Art Museum, on the campus of Princeton University, Princeton. “Clarence H. White and His World: The Art and Craft of Photography, 1895-1925,” The first retrospective devoted to the photographer in over a generation, the exhibit surveys White’s career from his beginnings in 1895 in Ohio to his death in Mexico in 1925, through Jan. 7; “Making History Visible: Of American Myths and National Heroes,” artists whose work is featured include Titus Kaphar, Thomas Hart Benton, Elizabeth Catlett, Glenn Ligon, Sally Mann, William Ranney, Faith Ringgold, William Rush, Kara Walker, Carrie Mae Weems, Charles White, John Wilson, and Hale Woodruff, through Jan. 14; “Hold: A Meditation on Black Aesthetics,” During the 1960s, black artists and intellectuals embraced the idea of a black aesthetic as an ideological alternative to Eurocentric notions of beauty and taste. Since then, black aesthetics has served more broadly as a site of convergence across the African diaspora, weaving a history of placelessness and belonging, support and constraint, holding and being held. The works in this exhibition, ranging from the 1950s to the present, embody various ways the aesthetic realm has enabled re-imaginings of blackness, through Feb. 11; “Rouge: Michael Kenna,” photographs by Kenna of the Rouge plant in Dearborn, Michigan, through Feb. 11. Hours: Tues.-Wed., Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.10 p.m., Sun. 1-5 p.m. Admission is free; artmuseum.princeton.edu; 609-258-3788. Trenton City Museum at Ellarslie Mansion, Cadwalader Park, Trenton. Bruce Katsiff at Ellarslie. “DrawCutShootPrintAssemble.” Exhibit featuring six artists who created works on paper. The artworks on paper include several sophisticated processes: collagraphs and digital prints, shaped paintings on paper, watercolor collages, very fine graphite drawings, etching, and mixed media, through Jan. 14. Hours: Wed.-Sat. noon to 4 p.m. www.ellarslie.org; 609989-3632. Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton St., Princeton. “Newark and the Culture of Art: 1900-1960.” The exhibit explores the unique combination of art and industry that made Newark a magnet for modern artists in the early 20th century. Morven’s exhibition celebrates the culture of creativity that flourished alongside John Cotton Dana, the visionary figure in the organization of the Newark Library and Newark Museum. Through his efforts art, industry and society were brought together to inspire the everyday Newark citizen through accessible and beautiful exhibitions. Dana’s goal was to educate by presenting examples of superior design to the greatest number of people possible, including Newark’s immigrant and working-class population; making art a vital part of Newark’s culture and society. Morven’s nearly 50 loans hail from public and private collections from across the country and will reflect Dana’s vision by including painting, textiles, ceramics, and sculptures, through Jan. 28, 2018. Hours: Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. $10, $8 seniors/students; morven.org; 609-924-8144.
COMEDY
Stress Factory, 90 Church St., New Brunswick. Joey Kola, Dec. 22-23, 7:30, 9:45 p.m., $20; Ken Krantz, Dec. 26, 7:30 p.m., $20; Annual Holiday Giveback Joint with Talent and Friends, Dec. 27, 8 p.m., $25; Chris Roach, Dec. 28, 7:30 p.m., Dec. 29-30, 7:30 p.m., 9:45 p.m., $20; New Year’s Extravaganza with Bret Ernst and Vinnie Brand featuring Julia Scott, Dec. 31, 7:30 p.m. ($59), 10:30 p.m. ($109); www.stressfactory.com; 732-545-4242. Princeton Catch a Rising Star, 102 Carnegie Center, West Windsor. Buddy Fitzpatrick, Dec. 22-23; catcharisingstar.com; 609-987-8018. Uncle Floyd, The Record Collector, 358 Farnsworth Ave., Bordentown. Dec. 26, 8 p.m., $22, $18 advance; www.the-record-collector.com; 609-324-0880. Raymond the Amish Comic, Randy Now’s Man Cave, 134 Farnsworth Ave., Bordentown. Dec. 29, 8 p.m. $15; www.mancavenj.com; 609-424-3766.
LIFESTYLE 1B
A Packet Publication
PACKET PICKS
A Symphonic New Year The Capital Philharmonic Orchestra’s concert welcoming 2018 will include a waltz, tango, Gershwin, and more
Dec. 22 Spider-Man movie at Princeton Library The Princeton Public Library will host a screening of “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” beginning at 6 p.m. Tom Holland stars as Marvel Comics character Peter Parker who is trying to balance high school life with being Spider-Man and facing the supervillain Vulture. The library is located at 65 Witherspoon St., Princeton. For more information, go to www.princetonlibrary.org or call 609-924-9529.
Historic tour at Washington Crossing Park Washington Crossing State Park will present lantern walking tours of three historic buildings in the park, beginning at 7 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The tours include the Nelson House, the ferry boat, the Stone Barn wood shop, and the Johnson Ferry House. Tours will be guided by lantern light from site to site. Admission costs $10, $5 seniors and children. Registration is required, each tour is limited to 25 people. To register, call 609-737-2515.
Dec. 23 Family movie at Garden Theatre The Princeton Garden Theatre will wrap up its series of Saturday holiday movies with “Home Alone,” beginning at 10:30 a.m. After the rest of his family accidentally leaves him behind for the holidays, 8-yearold Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) must defend his home from a pair of cat-burglars. Admission costs $5, $3 children under 18. The theater is located at 160 Nassau St. For more information, go to www.thegardentheatre.com or call 609-279-1999.
Dec. 25 Dinner and a movie at Beth El Synagogue Beth El Synagogue of East Windsor, Werner Lecture Series will be presenting a dinner and a movie event featuring a screening of Mel Brooks’ 1981 comedy, “History of the World Part 1.” Dine on Chinese food and enjoy the movie, beginning at 6 p.m. The cost is $18 per person. Call 609-443-4454 for reservations. Beth El Synagogue is located at 50 Maple Stream Road.
Dec. 28 Kwanzaa event in Lawrenceville The Lawrence library will host a Kwanzaa celebration, beginning at 6 p.m. Traditional Kwanzaa celebrations may include a variety of songs, dances, African drumming, storytelling, spoken word, poetry and a film. The Kwanzaa cultural symbols that represent values and concepts of this seven day holiday will be available for viewing. The program will be facilitated by Zarinah Shakir, producer/host, Perspectives of Interfaith television. The library is located at 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville. Registration is suggested. For more information, call 609-989-6920.
Friday, December 22, 2017
By Anthony Stoeckert Features Editor The holidays are all about tradition, and one fairly new tradition in the area is the annual New Year’s Eve concert performed by the New Jersey Capital Philharmonic Orchestra. “This is without a doubt our most successful concert,” says Daniel Spalding, conductor and music director for the philharmonic, which will present its fifth New Year’s Eve concert at Patriots Theatre at the War Memorial in Trenton. “It’s really quite popular, people like to go out to eat beforehand and then come to the concert. It’s a really great evening.” The concert will be hosted by David Osenberg of WWFM, the Classical Network, which is heard on Trenton-based 89.1 FM. It will include eight different pieces, showcasing shorter works, from a variety of composers. Spalding says the music ranges from beautiful, fun, celebratory and challenging. The concert will open with Peter Boyer’s “Silver Fanfare,” which was written to mark the 25th anniversary of the Pacific Symphony in California in 2004. Waltzes are a tradition for New Year’s Eve, and the Capital Philharmonic will play Emile Waldteufel’s “Skater’s Waltz,” Op. 183. “I just love that waltz, so I thought, ‘I don’t have to do Strauss every year,’” Spalding says. “I usually do Strauss and I’m running out, so I decided to do ‘Skater’s Waltz,‘ and it’s a beautiful, beautiful waltz.” Next will be Anton Dvorak’s “Two Slavonic Dances from Op. 72.” The first half will wrap up with Paul Dukas’ “Sorcerer’s Apprentice,” which is well known from a famous Mickey Mousestarring segment in the 1940 Disney animated classic “Fantasia.” Spalding chose “Sorcerer’s Apprentice” because one of his goals for the New Year’s Eve concert to include something that is difficult to play in order to showcase the musicians’ talents. “I like to do a piece that will feature the orchestra in a virtuosic way,” he says. The second half will begin with the overture to Otto Nicolai’s opera of “The Merry Wives of Windsor.” Next up with be a fun piece, Leroy Anderson’s “Syncopated Clock,” which includes blocks replicating the tick-tocks of clocks. It’s a piece that was the theme for late-show movies in New York. It’s also been heard on everything from “Captain Kangaroo” to “The Howard Stern Show.” “I figured that’s a good one for New Year’s Eve because it has to do with time,” Spalding says with a laugh. Next up will be a tango arranged for violin and orchestra by John Williams for the film, “Scent of a Woman.” The soloist for the piece will be Meichen Liao-Barnes, who also is serving as concertmaster for the
LOOSE ENDS
Violinist Meichen Liao-Barnes will join the New Jersey Capital Philharmonic Orchestra for a New Year’s Eve concert. evening because Vladimir Dyo, the orchestra’s regular concertmaster, isn’t available. Liao-Barnes says she and Dyo are friends and he recommended her to take his place for the New Year’s Eve performance. “He couldn’t do it and asked if I would be interested. I was available so I said yes, and Daniel thought about it, and I guess he thought it was a good idea,” she says. Spalding says he and Liao-Barnes have worked together with the Philadelphia Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra. “She was absolutely great, really stunning, she is so musical,” he says. “I’m excited to have her. She’s going to be the guest concertmaster and soloist for this concert, but we’ll see what happens in the future. I’d love to have her as a regular.” Liao-Barnes uses the Williams tango in her teaching at Temple but has never performed it in concert before. “It’s a tango with a lot of rhythm, and a lot of expression,” she says. “There’s a lot of space to create a special feel with the music.” The concert will end with an arrangement of George Gershwin music, “Gershwin in Hollywood,” by Robert Russell Bennett. Spalding is continuing a tradition of ending the orchestra’s New Year’s Eve concerts with Gershwin. And while it ends the evening, it’s where Spalding starts when creating a New Year’s Eve program. “Usually I start with what I want to end with, which is the Gershwin piece, I find a good Gershwin arrangement,”
he says. “And I always do a waltz and I always look for something really energetic and interesting to open a concert, so that’s the ‘Silver Fanfare.’ Nobody’s heard that before but it’s nice, it’s exciting. And so then it just builds up from there. “I always try to pick what I think I would like to hear. I just try to put myself in the audience and think about, ‘If I was there, what would be interesting to hear?’ And I also like to put in some surprises when I can.”
There also will be a pre-concert beginning at 7:10, featuring the War Memorial’s famous Moeller Theater Organ.
The New Jersey Capital Philharmonic will perform its New Year’s Eve concert at Patriots Theatre at the War Memorial, 1 Memorial Drive, Trenton, Dec. 31, 8 p.m. Tickets cost $40-$75; www.capitalphilharmonic.org; 215893-1999.
Pam Hersh
The gift of knowledge Harold Shapiro is using his knowledge to help people better understand how to save our environment Dr. Harold Shapiro and I shared a decade of working together at Princeton University in the 1990s. And that’s about the only academic connection I have with him — other than the fact that I have agreed with everything he has ever said in writing, in lectures, in speeches, in media coverage, or even in casual conversations. Over the past three decades, I have evolved into a self-proclaimed local expert on coffee and Cheetos. Shapiro, former president of Princeton University and now a professor of Economics and Public Affairs, is an international authority — as proclaimed by others — in more areas than any other person I have ever known. His areas of expertise include: econometrics, mathematical economics, science policy, the evolution of higher education as a social institution, bioethics, and Willie Nelson (yes, that’s a fact). On Dec. 9 at the Princeton Public Library, Shapiro gave a lecture that indicated yet another area of interest and expertise — the environment. Currently a member of the executive committee and associated faculty of the Princeton Environmental Institute Center for Environmental Research,
Education & Outreach, Shapiro presented a talk titled “The Environment: Understanding the Nature of the Challenge.” His presentation, the fourth annual lecture in the series endowed by the Princeton family of Dr. Kenneth Gould, once again impressed me by being profound yet totally accessible to people like me who lack the intellectual heft of a Harold Shapiro. When we spoke after the lecture, Shapiro, however, had no interest in dwelling on his accomplishments, but instead wanted to make sure that people understood the existential threat to our “flourishing human community” and the need to respond to this threat in a meaningful way. In a calm and un-alarming manner, Dr. Shapiro sounded an alarm. And my non-expert advice is for us to all wake up and heed the expert. “It is not about the survival of the planet Earth” as a physical entity he said. “It is about sustaining our critical eco-systems and extending the general climatic conditions of the Holocene period (of the last 10,000 to 12,000 years). The Holocene is the only set of conditions that we know for certain that can support a flourish-
ing human community.” I am amazed I kept listening after he started lecturing on ‘eco-systems,’ the annoyingly over-used and often misused word like ‘big data.’ But he was using the word as it was meant to be used and was making statements that had me on the edge of my seat, even though he was perfectly calm and un-dramatic in his presentation. Since the eco-systems are a complex web of deeply intertwined parts, they are dependent upon one another for their survival, he said. “Our assault on the eco-systems that support us lead to the question, ‘Will the delicately balances systems lose their stability?’” After providing a brief history of humans, energy consumption and their sources of energy, Shapiro focused on the stark realities of the present. “Human activity has, for the first time, become a major influence on our climate and on the vitality and sustainability of our eco-systems,” he said. “There is mounting evidence that . . . we may have come to some ‘ultimate boundaries’ where the system or parts of the system just collapse and cannot be revived. However we are
uncertain just where the boundaries are and how close we are to them. We are uncertain what will happen when we cross these boundaries and if these eco-systems could ever be restored.” His advice as to where to go from here: · Enhance our understanding of eco-system sustainability. · Diminish our ecological footprint. · Act even in the presence of uncertainty, because the eco-system will no longer take care of itself. · Commit ourselves to the welfare of future generations. My friends assume that my areas of expertise — the caffeine from the coffee and the indigestion from the Cheetos — keep me awake at night when in fact, it is the message so well articulated by Shapiro. In this holiday season, his message is a gift that can keep on giving — if we are willing to accept it. I am hopeful that the Princeton community is the ideal environment for this commitment to the environment. Stay tuned for the Community Climate Action Plan now being developed by Sustainable Princeton.
2B A Packet Publication
The Week of Friday, December 22, 2017
HEALTH MATTERS
Dr. Craig Gronczewski
Emergencies can take the wonder out of winter
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Jack Frost nipping at your nose may sound nice in a holiday song, but cold, wintry conditions bring their share of health risks. Shoveling your driveway, negotiating icy sidewalks, or simply being out and about in freezing, snowy temperatures can lead to injury or illness. Being aware of common wintertime emergencies can help you to stay safe and know what to do if Old Man Winter starts to get the better of you. Common wintertime emergencies Heart attacks. As the air turns cold, it has an effect on your body. Cold weather constricts blood vessels, and the heart has to work extra hard to pump blood. This strain is added to when you exert yourself by trudging through snowdrifts or shoveling heavy piles of snow. Shoveling snow is no easy task, and it can put heavy stress on your cardiovascular system. In fact, studies show that shoveling after a big snowstorm puts you at a greater risk of heart attack. For those over age 55, especially men, the risk is even higher. The signs of a heart attack include chest pain, discomfort in parts of the upper body, shortness of breath, nausea or lightheadedness. If you experience these heart attack symptoms, call 911 right away. Muscle strain. Cold weather also affects your muscles, causing them to tighten up. Tight muscles are more prone to injury. Shoveling, which is demanding on your body, can lead to strain and injure your muscles, tendons, and ligaments;
especially if you do not exercise regularly. Fractures. As the sidewalks become icy, the dangers increase. Slipping on ice-covered sidewalks, roads, and steps is a major cause of wintertime emergencies, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Muscle strains are possible when you slip and fall, but so are fractured bones, especially to the wrist and hip. Hypothermia. Hypothermia is a dangerous condition caused by low body temperature. Too much time out in the cold can cause your body temperature to drop to dangerous levels. Even if the weather is not extremely cold, hypothermia is possible due to the chill factor if your body is wet from rain or sweat. Hypothermia comes on quickly, and is especially dangerous because it affects the brain and your decisionmaking process. You may become confused or drowsy, and may also experience memory loss and/or slurred speech. You might not even realize this is happening, which makes it difficult to take appropriate steps. Shivering, exhaustion, coordination problems, and difficulty moving are also symptoms of hypothermia. Elderly people and infants are especially at risk. It only takes a small drop in body temperature to make this a dangerous situation. A body temperature under 95 degrees is an emergent condition. Move to a warmer place if possible and call 911 immediately. Frostbite. Long exposure to the cold can cause
frostbite. Your body will attempt to conserve heat around its core in the cold, and will reduce blood flow to your extremities. The tissue in these extremities, such as your fingers, toes, ears or nose can actually freeze. If you already have reduced blood circulation, or have not dressed properly for the cold, frostbite will be more likely. Frostbite can be serious. Your skin may turn white or grayish-yellow, go numb, or feel firmer than normal. If you experience these symptoms, move to a warmer place right away, and warm the affected area with warm water (99 to 103 degrees Fahrenheit). Do not rub or massage frostbitten skin. Seek medical treatment as soon as you can. Flu. The CDC estimates that more than 200,000 Americans are hospitalized each year for seasonal flu infections. Although the flu is not normally an emergency, people over age 65, people with certain chronic conditions, pregnant women and young children are at a higher risk for complications. Symptoms may include trouble breathing, chest pain or pressure, dizziness, confusion or persistent vomiting. Stay safe this winter Each season has its own joys, but also its own health dangers. You can enjoy winter while staying healthy by keeping a few things in mind: • Before doing outdoor activities this winter, including shoveling snow, take a few minutes to warm up with some light exercise. • Take it slowly when shoveling snow. Pace your-
self and take breaks. • Dress warmly, with a hat, scarf, and mittens. Layered clothing and a waterresistant coat can help keep you dry. • Wear appropriate footwear. Boots should keep your feet dry, and high-traction shoes can help to prevent you from slipping or falling. • Winter sports should be enjoyed with company, never alone. Make sure not to forget helmets, gloves and padding. • Avoid walking or skating on frozen areas, especially lakes or ponds that are not designated for ice-skating. • Get a flu shot. The CDC recommends a yearly vaccine for most people. The Center for Emergency Care at University Medical Center of Princeton sees 50,000 patients each year, including 7,500 children. The Center offers a designated pediatric emergency unit where pediatricians from Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia are on site 24/7 to consult on emergency cases involving infants, children and adolescents. The Center also offers a Senior Care emergency unit designed especially for older adults. To find a physician with Princeton HealthCare System, go to www.princetonhcs.org or call 888-742-7496. Craig A. Gronczewski, M.D. M.B.A., is board certified in emergency medicine and is the Chairman of the Department of Emergency Medicine at University Medical Center of Princeton.
MOVIE TIMES
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Movie and times for the week of Dec. 22-28. Schedules are subject to change. HILLSBOROUGH CINEMAS (908874-8181): All the Money in the World (R) Mon.-Thurs. 1:35, 4:35, 7:35, 10:30. Pitch Perfect 3 (PG13) Fri.-Sat., Mon.Thurs. 12:25, 2:50, 5:15, 7:40, 10:05; Sun. 12:25, 2:50, 5:15. Downsizing (luxury recliners, reserved seating) (R) Fri.-Sat., Mon.-Thurs. 1:45, 4:45, 7:45, 10:45; Sun. 1:45, 4:45 Father Figures (R) Fri.-Sat., Mon.-Thurs. 12, 2:40, 5:20, 8, 10:40; Sun. 12, 2:40, 5:20. The Greatest Showman (luxury recliners, reserved seating) (PG) Fri.-Sat., Mon.-Thurs. 12:15, 2:45, 5:15, 7:45, 10:15; Sun. 12:15, 2:45, 5:15. Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (PG13) Fri.-Sat., Mon.-Thurs. 1:30, 4:15, 7, 9:45; Sun. 1:30, 4:15. Ferdinand (PG) Fri.-Sat., Mon.-Thurs. 12, 2:35, 5:10, 7:45, 10:20; Sun. 12, 2:35, 5:10. Ferdinand (luxury recliners, reserved seating) (PG) Fri.-Tues. 1, 3:35, 6:10. Star Wars: The Last Jedi (luxury recliners, reserved seating) Fri.Sat. 12:45, 4:05, 7:25, 10:45; Sun. 12:45, 4:05; Mon.-Thurs. 12:45, 4:05, 7:25, 10:45. Star Wars: The Last Jedi (PG13) Fri.-Sat., Mon.-Thurs. 12:20, 3:40, 5:20, 7, 8:40,
10:20; Sun. 12:20, 3:40, 5:20. Coco (PG) Fri.-Thurs. 12:05, 2:40. Wonder (PG) Fri.Sat. 12, 2:40, 5:20, 8, 10:40; Sun. 12, 2:40, 5:20. MONTGOMERY CINEMAS (609924-7444): Darkest Hour (PG13) Fri.Sat., Mon.-Thurs. 1:30, 4:15, 7, 9:45; Sat. 1:30, 4:15. I, Tonya (R) Fri.-Sat., Mon.Thurs. 1:50, 4:30, 7:10, 9:50; Sun. 1:50, 4:30. Wonder Wheel (PG13) Fri.-Thurs. 4:45 p.m. The Shape of Water (R) Fri.Sat., Mon.-Thurs. 1:30, 4:15, 7, 9:45; Sun. 1:30, 4:15. Call Me By Your Name (R) Fri.-Sat., Mon.-Thurs. 1:15, 4:05, 6:55, 9:45; Sun. 1:15, 4:05. Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri (R) Fri.-Sat., Mon.-Thurs. 2, 4:40, 7:20, 10; Sun. 2, 4:40. Lady Bird (R) Fri.-Sat., Mon.-Thurs. 2:30, 7:10, 9:25; Sun. 2:30. PRINCETON GARDEN THEATRE (609-279-1999): Darkest Hour (PG13) Fri.-Sat. 1, 4, 7, 9:35; Sun. 1, 4; Mon. 5, 8; Tues.-Thurs. 2, 5, 8. The Shape of Water (R) Fri.-Sat. 12:45, 3:35, 6:30, 9:30; Sun. 12:45, 3:35; Mon. 4:30, 7:30; Tues.-Thurs. 1:30 4:30 7:30. Home Alone (1990) (PG) Sat. 10:30 a.m.
A Packet Publication 3B
The Week of Friday, December 22, 2017
Holiday Gift Guide Courtesy of Crossroads of the American Revolution
Courtesy of Crossroads of Old Barrakcs Museum
Patriots Week events include re-enactments of the battles in Trenton (left) and an 18th-century-style ball (right).
Honoring the fight for independence Patriots Week commemorates the American Revolution with re-enactments, tours, kids events, and more There’s so much to celebrate this time of year, including the area’s important role in the American Revolution. Patriots Week, the annual commemoration of the 10 Crucial Days of the American Revolution, beginning with Washington crossing the Delaware to the Battle of Princeton, features more than 35 events for families and history buffs. One of the week’s highlights will take place Dec 30 when re-eanctors will portray the soldiers who fought in the Battles of Trenton. Follow the troops through the streets and watch as they re-live the events of these fateful battles. The re-enactors will then meet people at the Barracks Museum, located at 101 Barrack St., Trenton. The first battle will begin at 11 a.m. at the Trenton Battle Monument and take place on Warren Street. The second battle will begin at 3 p.m. and take place in Mill Hill Park on the Assunpink Creek.
The battles are free to the public, and entrance onto the museum grounds costs $5 per person (free for children 5). For more information, go to www.barracks.org or call 609-396-1776. A ball of the type the Founding Fathers would have danced in will be held Dec. 29 at the Historic Trenton Masonic Temple, located at 100 Barrack St. Dance along with reenactors in Revolutionary War dress to live music of the time. You needn’t know the dances, instructors will teach you. Advanced ticket pricing costs $17.76. Tickets at the door cost $20. For tickets, go to www.barracks.org or call 609-3961776. Children can learn about General Washington’s victory in Trenton during “The Trouble with Trenton,” a children’s puppet show, Dec. 30, with performances beginning at noon and 2 p.m. at The Old
Barracks Museum, 101 Barrack St., Trenton. This “mini” historical look at an amazing piece of our history is presented with marionettes and rod puppets — and lots of help from the audience. Watch the battle unfold before your eyes, and see the action as it has never been seen before. Shows includes live music, large puppets and props, and plenty of “revolting” action. This event is hosted by the Old Barracks Museum and presented by Tuckers’ Tales Puppet Theater. This free event takes place at Hanover Street Plaza, on the corner of West Hanover and North Warren streets, just a block off of East State Street. For more information, go to www.barracks.org or call 609-396-1776 . A real time historical tour of the Battle of Princeton, led by military historian William P. Tatum III, will take place Dec.
31, 6:45 to 9:30 a.m. at the Princeton Battlefield.Tatum will be joined by other reenactors of various Congressional regiments to show participants exactly where, when, and why events unfolded that chilly morning in 1777.Experience the battle, minute by minute, at the same time of day. Learn how the Battle of Princeton, as it occurred, was not at all what Washington was expecting. Learn from where the Continental Line approached the battle. Learn how these momentous events transpired and were the culmination of the Ten Crucial Days Campaign that changed history. Meet at the Clarke House, 500 Mercer St., Princeton. Donations for this event are $10, $5 children. For more information, email theprincetonbattlefieldsociety.org or call 609-389-5657. For more information on other Patriots Week events, go to patriotsweek.com.
Oh, Christmas Trees Come to where the treetops glisten. Morven Museum & Garden annual Festival of Trees has become a mustsee Princeton holiday tradition and is on view through Jan. 7. Visitors enjoy the museum’s elegant galleries, hallways and porches artfully decorated for the holidays by local businesses, garden clubs, and non-profit organizations. Festival of Trees is open to the public during regular museum hours, Wed.-Sun., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. No reservations are required. Museum ticket must be purchased to enter museum.Tickets cost $10, $8 seniors/military/students; morven.org; 609-924-8144.
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4B A Packet Publication
The Week of Friday, December 22, 2017
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Amrik Rug Gallery has been in the Oriental rug wholesale and retail business for many years supplying hand made rugs to retail stores and the public. At the end of December 2016, the company took over the whole inventory of the now out of business Rug & Decor Store at 210 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ. Now we would like to invite you to visit our showroom (Amrik Rug Gallery) at 210 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ. where you will ďŹ nd our exclusive collection of hand made rugs from all major rug weaving countries like Iran (Persia), India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tebutan, Nepal and Coucassion. Available in all different sizes and designs such as traditional, modern, new, old or antique--100% wool, wool and silk and 100% silk rugs. Available Sizes: 3X5, 4X6, 5X7, 6X9, 8X10, 9X12, 10X14, 12X15, 12X18 and larger. Also, Runners, Rounds, Squares & Odd Sizes.
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Week of December 22nd 2017
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Cell: 609-903-0621 | Email: ashulkina@yahoo.com
Q
. What designations do you have and what does it mean for the people you work with? A. I am honored to have been awarded the highest designation that Realtors can attain – Platinum Level by the NJAR Circle of Excellence, another year in a row, since 2012! In today’s complex market, Real Estate professionals have to be innovative, diligent and consistent in order to excel. I have also been recognized to be in the Top 1% of all Realtors nationwide. For clients, this means that they can be assured that my years of experience and real estate knowledge will get them the results they are looking for.
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. What is one tip you have for someone looking to buy or sell a home? A. Call a real estate professional! Both buyers and sellers are educated in todays’ web-driven world. However, not all information listed on-line is accurate, nor can it replace the experience and knowledge offered by a real estate professional.
Q
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Top 1% of REALTORS Nationwide NJ REALTOR® Circle of Excellence® 1998-2016 Platinum Level 2012-2016
“
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In 2016, Anna Closed 80 Transactions, Totaling at Over $35 Million!
. What do you like most about living in this area? A. I love living in the Greater Princeton area! This area is blooming with culture, history and renovation, yet it is still a place where you can enjoy a quiet evening, as you would in a country estate. Princeton is also an international city. I have quite a few clients who relocated from other countries for continuing education or work, and I find joy in helping them settle in our town and feel at home as they transition from their homeland.
Q
. Is there a certain community in the area which has become your main focus? A. I enjoy having a very versatile and expansive business throughout the area. Nonetheless, quite a bit of my focus goes to Princeton Landing. I have lived on Sayre Drive for over a decade and have sold over 300 homes there. Because my family and I call Princeton Landing our home, I am very knowledgeable about the market there. It is such a beautiful, park-like community with all of the amenities of a 5-star resort and close proximity to major roadways and Princeton Junction Train Station. Many of my clients have found their perfect home in Princeton Landing and I am happy to call them neighbors.
. What do you see in the future of Real Estate sales and prices? A. The Real Estate market in Princeton is thriving and staying consistent year-round. There is a lot of activity around the new construction projects which I am pleased to be representing. Also, there is a growing interest coming from local and international . What is your current focus is Real Estate? investors which is a great contribution to the stability of the market, A. Right now, I am focusing on the booming considering that investors are more likely to purchase during the New Construction in Princeton. It seems that quieter months in order to avoid bidding wars which are common almost every street I turn on, there is at least in Princeton. one new home being built. To some, it is a little discouraging, to see old homes being torn down to build a new, but I think that it is a necessary step in helping the town’s Real 343 Nassau Street Estate market flourish and overall growth. Princeton NJ 08540 There are so many buyers looking to buy a home in Princeton, and they are most certainly of Princeton interested in new construction projects.
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Princeton
$1,499,000
265 Ewing Street NEW CONSTRUCTION - built by the reputable Grosso Homes, LLC. Located just a few blocks from schools and the Princeton Shopping Center. This beautiful homes features over 3,700 sq.ft., 5BR, 4BA, 2-car garage and a full finished basement.
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3 Barbieri Court Spectacular, beautifully renovated 4BR, 3.5BA, 3-car garage and finished basement villa situated on a 3.07 acre lot with Princeton Address! Too many upgrades to mention!
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56 Tee Ar Place NEW CONSTRUCTION - built by the reputable Grosso Homes, LLC. This incredible new construction offers 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, 2-car garage, and a full finished basement. Situated on a .25 acre lot - located under a mile from the Princeton Shopping Center.
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$1,299,,000
10 Harris Road NEW CONSTRUCTION - built by the reputable Grosso Homes, LLC. Last two properties on Harris Road! Practically in Downtown Princeton! This property features 4BR 3BA, 2-car garage and a full finished basement.
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28 Beech Hill Circle NEW CONSTRUCTION - built by the reputable Grosso Homes, LLC. Situated on a private 1.51 ACRE LOT - minutes to Downtown Princeton. This spacious new construction offers OVER 4,300 SQ.FT and features 5 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, 2-car garage, and a finished walk-out basement.
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4 Fieldwood Court Completely remodeled, contemporary Patio Home in Canal Pointe! ALMOST $200K IN UPGRADES! Everything has been tastefully renovated with sleek, Euro-style features! This sunlit Tivoli model (master suite on the main level) offers 3 BR, 2.5 BA, and a two-car garage.
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Princeton
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Hamilton $259,900 609-586-1400 MLS# 7093198
Hamilton $249,000 609-586-1400 MLS # 7090999
LI NE ST W IN G HoPewell boro $369,900 609-921-2700 MLS # 7094614
N PR EW IC E
LI NE ST W IN G
borDentown $274,900 609-298-3000 MLS# 7086105
Week of December 22nd 2017
LI NE ST W IN G
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2D
Plainsboro $152,900 609-921-2700 MLS# 7094783
trenton $365,000 609-921-2700 MLS# 7073381
briDgeton twP. $329,000 215-862-9441 MLS# 7016716
briDgewater twP. $749,900 908-782-0100 MLS# 3416014
Clinton twP. $814,500 908-782-0100 MLS# 3412904
HoPewell twP. $1,559,000 609-737-1500 MLS# 7016121
HoPewell twP. $575,000 609-737-1500 MLS# 7070883
Hamilton $269,900 609-298-3000 MLS # 7061222
Hamilton $208,000 609-586-1400 MLS # 7039182
HoPwewell twP. $449,000 609-737-1500 MLS# 7074460
lambertVille City $699,900 609-397-0777 MLS # 6837213
lawrenCeVille $424,900 609-921-2700 MLS# 7062041
montgomery twP. $619,000 609-737-1500 MLS # 7020906
mt. laurel $139,000 609-298-3000 MLS # 6914129
N PR EW IC E
Hamilton $579,000 609-298-3000 MLS # 7061210
nortHamPton twP. $495,000 215-862-9441 MLS #7089264
PHilaDelPHia $375,000 215-862-9441 MLS# 7072865
Pennington boro $476,351 609-737-1500 MLS #7084061
raritan twP $186,999 908-782-0100 MLS #3425025
west winDsor $899,900 609-921-2700 MLS # 7007888
real estate news To My Past, Present and Future Clients Wishing You A Happy & Healthy 2018
“To me, Real Estate is not only a career, but a passion.” - Donna
Donna M. Murray
®
Sales Associate, REALTOR Cell: 908-391-8396
donna.murray@foxroach.com 2016 NJ REALTORS® Circle of Excellence Award® Winner -Platinum
253 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ 08540
609-924-1600
Amy Cuccia Join Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices Fox & Roach, REALTORS® Camilo Concepcion, sales leader of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS® HamiltonRobbinsville Home Marketing Center, welcomes Amy Cuccia as a sales associate. A member of Mercer County Association of Realtors, Cuccia resides in Chesterfield. She serves Mercer County and can be reached at 609-570-2871 or 609-477-3241 or by emailing amy.cuccia@foxroach.com. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices (BHHS) Fox & Roach, REALTORS® is a part of HomeServices of America, the nation’s second largest provider of total home services. The company has more than 4,500 Sales Associates in over 65 sales offices across the Tri-State area. Through its affiliate, the Trident Group, the company provides onestop shopping and facilitated services to its clients including mortgage financing, and title, property and casualty insurance. BHHS Fox & Roach is the #1 broker in the nationwide BHHS network of 1400 broker affiliates. Our company-sponsored charitable foundation, Fox & Roach Charities, is committed to addressing the needs of children and families in stressful life circumstances and has contributed over $5.5 million to more than 250 local organizations since its inception in 1995. Visit our Website at www.foxroach.com.
Week of December 22nd 2017
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KENNEL MANAGER If you are a groomer and/or vet tech & love big dogs this part time job is for you. Feed, clean, exercise large dogs in a private kennel. Morning hours. Additional hours available.
Hopewell 609-213-7667
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Keeping an eye on your governments? Manually search the site or register to receive email notifications and/or save your searches. It's a free public service provided by NJ Press Association at www.njpublicnotices.com
DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR BOAT TO HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND. Free 3 Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. 800-263-5434
Office Space for Rent
DISH TV. 190 channels. $49.99/mo. for 24 mos. Ask About Exclusive Dish Features like Sling® and Hopper®.PLUS High Speed Internet, $14.95/mo. (Availability and Restrictions apply.) TV for Less, Not Less TV! 1-888-6029637.
OFFICE Somerville Township, NJ. A 4,900+ SF office building available for sale with smaller individual suites available for lease. Easy access to Routes 206, 22, 202 and 287. LAND South Brunswick, NJ. 6+ to 8+ acres. Possible uses for landscapers or contractors with outside storage needs. Available for sale. Call for details! ATTENTION CONTRACTORS! Mixed use property with office, yard space and two bedroom home. 4+ acres! Route 206 Burlington County. DEVELOPMENT SITE 7.2+ acres located in Monroe Twp. Close to the NJTP and adult communities. Ideal for assisted living/nursing home development. Call for details. INVESTMENT PROPERTY Somerville, NJ. A 3,619+ office building available for sale. This building is conveniently located in close proximity to Route 22, 202, 206 and 287. LOT Ewing, NJ. Two vacant lots. Township may consider approval for a one (4) family residential home on both lots. GREAT LOCATION Bordentown, NJ. A 14,000+ SF shopping center with a 1,556+ SF space available for lease. Offers easy access to Route 130 and Interstates 95, 195, 295 and the New Jersey Turnpike. HIGHLY VISIBLE SITE Lawrenceville, NJ. A 4,015± SF office/retail building available for lease. Ideal for office or retail user that is looking to maximize their exposure. OFFICE SPACE Burlington City, NJ. A 6,000± SF office building with 2,500± SF of medical office space available for lease. Well maintained medical office. A stone throw from Route 130 North. LOCATION! Bordentown, NJ. An 11,000+ SF shopping center with one (1) store totaling 1,235+ SF available for lease. Easy access to Route 130 and Intestates 95, 195, 295 and the New Jersey Turnpike. Richardson Commercial Realtors 609-586-1000
DENTAL INSURANCE. Call Physicians Mutual Insurance company for details. NOT just a discount plan, REAL coverage for 350 procedures. 844255-5541 or http://www.dental150plus.com/ [TRACKING ITEM2]AD#6118
SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY? Up to $2,671/mo. (based on paid-in amount) FREE evelation! Call Bill Gordon & Associates 1-800-4507617. Mail: 2420 N. St. NW, Washington, DC. Office: Broward Co. FL., member TX/NM Bar. AIRLINE MECHANIC TRAINING - Get FAA certification to fix planes. Approved for military benefits. Financial aid if qualified. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-827-1981. Business Opportunity ATTENTION BUSINESS OWNERS: Do you want to reach over 5 million readers? Place your 25-word classified ad in over 113 newspapers throughout NJ for $560. Contact Peggy Arbitell 609-359-7381 or visit www.njnewsmedia.com/SCAN/ Business Services A PLACE FOR MOM - The nation's largest senior living referral service. Contact our trusted, local experts today! Our service is FREE/no obligation. Call 1-844-606-0309 Help Wanted BOOKKEEPER Part time bookkeeper for small office in Princeton. QuickBooks. Approximately 2 - 4 hours per week. Send cover letter and resume to: aco@orgonomy.org.
Account Manager/Sales Representative Newspaper Media Group, publisher of over 45 local community publications both in print and online, is seeking creative, analytical and outgoing individuals to join our team of Account Managers.
Who are you? You are a people person who likes conversation and investing in the success of others. You have a positive attitude and can balance your own success with that of helping the team. You have a strong work ethic and desire to see the job through to completion. With at least two years of experience in a client-facing job – through customer service, marketing, advertising, communications, retail or other capacity, you will help round out our team. Send your resume with cover letter for the opportunity to start creating campaigns to assist local businesses in developing their place in their community. You will be contacting business owners, managers/decision makers in discussion of advertising and marketing. Pay is commensurate with experience including base salary, incentive compensation and bonuses. We offer a competitive benefits program and a great group of people with whom to work! EOE Please forward your resume to jcarter@newspapermediagroup.com
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Residential & Commercial ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
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Child Care
Home Improv Spec
Former full time nanny 20 years experience looking for part time child care Resume and references available.
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Call 609-924-3250
Home Repairs
4056971.0429.02x02.GroutGeek.indd
Choose the builder with 25 years of in-town experience
Additions, Remodel/Renovations, Insurance work, Kitchens, Custom Trim/Cabinetry, etc.
609-847-2844 Email: pringencon@aol.com See our work on Facebook www.facebook.com/JPMoserprops
Wanted to Buy
Fair Prices Paid For Cameras and Photo Equipment
CALL JAY AT 609-689-9651 Building Services 4056842.0422.02x02.Twomey.indd
Electrical Services
For Sale
25
609-466-2693 R
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Delivered & Dumped $200
L
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A
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2014 Recipient of NJ Dept. Historical Preservation Award
NTRY DE
TA
Alterations • Additions • Old House Specialist Historic Restorations • Kitchens • Baths • Decks
Years in Business
Donald R. Twomey
4056757.0415.02x03.CifelliElec.indd
Princeton, NJ 08540
All Split All Seasoned Hardwoods
908-359-3000
Contractors
FULLY INSURED
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tt r r o o p p SSuupp all a c c o o l l yyoouurr SSSSeeSS ee n n i i S S u u bb Call 609-874-2205 to advertise or subsCribe
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