Princeton Packet | 4-24-2020

VOL. 236, NO. 17

Friday, April 24th, 2020

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Serving the Greater Princeton Area Since 1786

Students help provide hot meals for medical staff at Saint Peter’s University Hospital

By ANDREW HARRISON Staff Writer

When the coronavirus pandemic first began, Jai Narula looked for a way to aid those on the frontlines of the pandemic.

He found it through a new initiative called Meals for Heroes. The Montgomery High School freshman would focus his efforts on providing hot meals to medical staff at Saint Peter’s University Hospital in New Brunswick.

Meals for Heroes was founded by two Hillsborough High School siblings, who are friends with Jai. They suggested that he join their effort, which spurred him to create Meals for Heroes-Montgomery, Jai said.

“My friends Raj and Navleen Boparai are from Hillsborough High and we volunteer at my parents’ business Code Ninjas and they asked me if I wanted to do Meals for Heroes with them,” Jai said. “For me and my family, service to other people is really important for us, so this was easy for to be a part of. I just love helping others.”

Jai, 14, has raised more than $5,000 in funds and helped provide more than 400 meals.

“We are posting on Facebook at the Meals for Heroes page and oth-

ers and [are] asking people to donate money through Venmo to my mom,” Jai said.

He partnered with Genteel’s Brick Oven Pizza and Ristorante in Skillman to provide the hot meals to the medical staff in the seven COVID-19 units at Saint Peter’s.

“For every $10 that we raise will be able to provide a meal and drink to the medical staff,” Jai said.

“James Genteel, owner of Genteel’s, makes the meals. His wife Dawn packs up the meals and delivers them to the front entrance of the hospital. The staff then collects them and distributes them.”

Jai said James Genteel approached him about partnering in the new effort from Montgomery.

Both of Genteel’s daughters were born at Saint Peter’s and the family lives in Piscataway.

“That is our connection to the hospital. We wanted to get involved with feeding the hospital. We found out about the Meals for Heroes out of Montgomery through Facebook,” James Genteel said. “We are providing everything from pizza pies, salad, salads with chicken, sandwiches and drinks. We switch it up so the medical staff is not just eating pizza.”

He added that being a part of Meals for Heroes is a way for the

restaurant to give back, and it also helps small businesses who may need the help.

“We are still signed up and still taking donations from whoever wants to make the donation to this effort. We are still going forward with helping those at Saint Peter’s hospital on [the] frontlines of the coronavirus.”

Meals for Heroes-Montgomery will continue its effort of providing hot meals for the foreseeable future, Jai said. Meals for Heroes primarily uses Facebook to connect with potential donors and to showcase what the group has achieved, according to MJ Narula, Jai’s mom.

“Because they are minors the parents handle the Venmo money.

I helped create the Facebook page Meals for Heroes. We use that medium to promote and connect with those who are looking to help,” MJ Narula said. “We are going into different community board and groups and show them what we are doing.

We show the receipts of the meals being purchased and delivered.”

She added that they have received a great community response.

“We did not expect it to be this big. It has just been amazing to see how many people have been helping us. The medical staff are working long shifts, not getting much sleep

PHOTO COURTESY OF MJ NARULA

Hot meals for Saint Peter’s University Hospital in New Brunswick are provided by Meals for Heroes - Montgomery.

and not really having that much time to eat. They have so much to think about,” MJ Narula said. “For us to be able to provide a hot meal is one less thing they have to think about.

This is the least we can do, so they can have the energy to keep going.”

For more information about Meals for Heroes, visit www.facebook.com/mealsforheroes.

Princeton municipal property tax rate expected to hold steady for 2020

By LEA KAHN Staff Writer

The Princeton municipal property tax rate will hold steady at 49 cents, under revisions to the proposed 2020 municipal budget presented to the Princeton Council at its April 13 meeting.

A public hearing and final action on the proposed $64.1 million spending plan is set for Princeton Council’s April 27 meeting, which will be held remotely at 7 p.m.

Factoring in the reduction in anticipated revenues because of Gov. Phil Murphy’s stay-at-home order issued March 21, the proposed budget that was introduced by the council at its March 9 meeting has been reduced from $64.8 million to $64.1 million.

The proposed municipal property tax rate to support the initial 2020 budget was 50 cents per $100 of assessed value, but now that the budget has been trimmed, the municipal property tax rate has been reduced to 49 cents – the same tax rate as 2019.

This means the owner of a house assessed at the town average of $838,562 will pay $4,277 in municipal property taxes, which is the same amount as in 2019.

The revised budget uses more money in surplus funds than the March 9 version of the budget. The budget initially earmarked $6.9 million in surplus funds as a revenue source, but town officials have dipped into the surplus account and will use $7.2 million in surplus funds in the revised budget.

Overall miscellaneous revenue has been reduced from $15.7 million to $15.3 million. Miscellaneous revenue includes licenses, fees and permits, and fire and housing inspection fees.

Municipal Court revenue from fines and court costs has been reduced from an anticipated $1 million to $600,000. Parking revenue also is expected to decline because of the state-ordered shutdown. Most stores are closed and parking enforcement

has been suspended.

Property taxes generate 51% of the overall revenue for the 2020 budget. Miscellaneous revenue is 19%, surplus funds account for 11%, and Princeton University’s payment in lieu of taxes is 5%. The parking utility and sewer fees make up the rest.

Princeton resident Scott Sillars, who chairs the town’s Citizens Finance Advisory Committee, told the council that despite the economic situation created by the response to COVID-19, he did not expect the tax collection rate to be affected.

The tax collection rate is typically 99%, Sillars said. In 2011, during the Great Recession, it dropped to 98%, but quickly recovered.

Sillars told the Princeton Council that the ratable base in Princeton is heavily weighted toward residential properties, which make up 63% of the overall ratable base for property tax purposes.

Commercial properties make up 8% of the ratable base and multifam-

ily apartment developments make up 4%. The remaining 25% of the tax base is tax-exempt properties.

In response to Sillars’ presentation, Princeton Council Member Eve Niedergang said that if a property owner cannot pay the quarterly property tax on time, the owner would have to pay interest on the unpaid amount when it is paid.

It will be a full year before the town could take action against a property owner who has delinquent property taxes, she said. The annual tax sale allows investors to pay the unpaid taxes and acquire a tax lien sale certificate. The property owner is given time to pay the unpaid property taxes plus interest to release the certificate.

Princeton Council Member Mia Sacks said, “It’s great that we are in a (financially) healthy place,” but she cautioned that it should not be taken for granted. Everyone has to do their part, including the school board, she said.

The municipal property tax makes up 21% of a property owner’s tax bill. The school district property tax is 49% of the total bill and the Mercer County property tax is 30%.

“We may be in for some belttightening,” Sacks said.

When a resident called in to the meeting and asked what could be done to reduce the property tax bill, Mayor Liz Lempert said that cutting the budget to that extent is not realistic.

“The unfortunate truth is that cutting taxes to the point that it is going to make a significant difference to you and not grind the government to a halt is not really realistic,” Lempert said.

During the first years following the consolidation of Princeton Borough and Princeton Township, there was a savings in municipal property taxes, but the savings were “dwarfed” by the school and county property tax increases, Lempert said.

Rider University, Westminster Choir College lawsuit decision to be appealed

By LEA KAHN Staff Writer

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The dismissal of two lawsuits that sought to block Rider University’s plan to move the Westminster Choir College from Princeton to its Lawrence Township campus is headed to the Appellate Division of Superior Court.

A notice of appeal was filed April 14 by attorney Bruce Afran, following a Mercer County Superior Court judge’s dismissal of the lawsuits brought by 71 Westminster Choir College students and the Westminster Foundation, Princeton,

New Jersey Inc. The Westminster Foundation, Princeton, New Jersey Inc. is an independent nonprofit group whose members include alumni and supporters of the choir college. It is not affiliated with Rider University or the Westminster Choir College.

Mercer County Superior Court Judge Robert Lougy dismissed the lawsuits after listening to oral arguments at the Mercer County Courthouse in Trenton on Feb. 14. The judge issued his ruling in an order dated March 2.

Rider University is aware of the appeal filing, but it does not comment on pending litigation, said Rider University spokesman Kristine Brown. Progress is being made, however, on construction projects in anticipation of the planned move, she said.

The students and the Westminster Foundation oppose the move because they claim that Rider University will be unable to match the facilities on the Princeton campus.

Those facilities include 46 specialized practice rooms and space for 20 pipe organs and 165 pianos.

Rider University is renovating Gill Chapel to create 13 new practice rooms and is adding six new prac-

tice rooms in the Kroner Hall dormitory. Combined with the 14 practice rooms at the Lawrence Township campus, 33 practice rooms are expected to be available later this year.

Through its motion to dismiss the lawsuits, Rider University claimed that the students do not have the right to use the courts to protect the school. The university had asserted that it was the only body that could make decisions regarding Westminster Choir College.

The students are beneficiaries of a 1935 trust that purchased the land for the choir college and that requires it to remain on the property.

If the choir college abandons the campus, the trust requires the land to go to the Princeton Theological Seminary.

The lawsuits seek to bar the sale of the 23-acre Princeton campus, either in part or in whole. But if a sale does occur, the lawsuits would prevent Rider University from pocketing the money for its own use. Rider would have to use the money for the exclusive purposes or programs of Westminster Choir College.

The lawsuits stem from Rider University’s announcement that it planned to move the Westminster Choir College from the Princeton

campus to its Lawrence Township campus in September 2020. The Princeton campus is on the corner of Walnut Lane and Hamilton Avenue, near Princeton High School.

Rider University acquired Westminster Choir College through a merger in 1992. Four years ago, Rider decided to sell the college for financial reasons. It launched a worldwide search for a buyer who would keep the choir college in Princeton.

Rider University found a buyer in a commercial, Chinese government-owned entity known as Beijing Kaiwen Education Technology, Ltd., but the deal fell through in July 2019.

Following the failed deal, Rider University announced plans to consolidate and move Westminster Choir College to its Lawrence Township campus, despite the lack of specialized facilities that the conservatory music students require.

The students’ lawsuit claimed that under the 1991 agreement that led to the 1992 merger, Rider University cannot move the choir college unless it can show that such a move or change is necessary to preserve the charitable purposes of Westminster Choir College.

Also under the 1991 agreement, Rider cannot relocate the choir college unless it can demonstrate “that the move to the Lawrence campus will preserve such program and mission in the closest means possible to the existing mission, campus and operation of Westminster,” according to the lawsuit.

“Rider also assumed such obligations under the 1935 Strong Taylor trust,” the lawsuit said.

The Strong Taylor trust was created by Sophia Strong Taylor, who gave 23 acres of land in Princeton when the Westminster Choir College moved from Ithaca, New York.

The college had been affiliated with Ithaca College.

As a condition of her gift, Strong Taylor required that the choir college must advance “the training of ministers of music of evangelical churches.”

If Westminster Choir College ceased to do so, the land was to be given to the Princeton Theological Seminary, which is a private seminary that trains Presbyterian ministers.

Westminster Choir College was formed as the Westminster Choir of the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Dayton, Ohio in 1920.

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Friday, April 24, 2020

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CALENDAR Editor’s Note: Please call before attending any event. As of press time, the shelter in place due to the coronavirus outbreak was until further notice.

Canceled

• The following performances by the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra are postponed: • Scores: Made in Princeton (April 26) • Brahms, Vivaldi & Beethoven (May 1–3) • Family: The ‘New World’ Symphony and Beyond! (May 9) • The town-wide garage sale in Cranbury, planned for April 25, is canceled.

• The Spirit of Princeton’s Annual Memorial Day Parade, scheduled for May 23, has been cancelled. No decision has been made yet as to Spirit of Princeton’s Flag Day ceremony scheduled for June 15. For more information, call 609-4300144 or visit www.spiritofprinceton.org/ • Cranbury canceled its Memorial Day Parade, which was scheduled for May 25.

Thurs., May 14

“Quakers: The Quiet Revolutionaries,” by Princeton filmmaker Janet Gardner, will be shown at 8 p.m.

May 14 on NJTV and at 11 p.m. May 26 on WNYC, and on public television stations across the country over the coming year. Scenes in the film were shot at the Princeton Friends meeting and include interviews with local members.

The 57-minute film tells the story of a spiritual movement that has played a role in the religious, social and political life of the nation.

Demonstrating an influence disproportionate to their numbers, Quakers have led anti-slavery, civil rights and women’s rights movements and been strong advocates for world peace.

Gardner began planning the documentary in 2012 after visiting Pendle Hill in Lancashire, U.K., where George Fox started the religion in the 1600s.

Richard Nurse of Franklin Township served as senior producer and narrator.

The film was made possible by support from The John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation, Obadiah Brown’s Benevolent Fund, Thomas H. & Mary Wil-

liams Shoemaker Fund, Tyson Memorial Fund, John Pemberton Fund and others.

Wed., May 20

Board of Trustees meeting. All meetings will be held on the third Wednesday of the month otherwise noted. 7 p.m. Princeton Public Library, second floor Conference Room, 65 Witherspoon St., Princeton.

2020 Barbara Boggs Sigmund Awards. Womanspace announces its 2020 Barbara Boggs Sigmund Awards Honoree, Elizabeth Smart, child abduction prevention advocate and victim of childhood abduction. The abduction of Smart was one of the most followed child abduction cases of our time.

5:30-8:30 p.m. Princeton Marriott, 100 College Road E., Princeton. For tickets, visit tinyurl.com/qmugg3t.

Wed., May 20 – Sat., May 23

Cirque Du Soleil. Crystal is not just an ice show, it’s the very first experience on ice from Cirque du Soleil. Watch world-class ice skaters and acrobats claim their new frozen playground with speed and fluidity as they challenge the laws of gravity with never-beforeseen acrobatics. This show is suitable for all ages. Tickets: Start at $48 adult, start at $35 children ages 2-12 (additional fees may apply). Parking: $10 (cash only). Doors open one hour prior to show. 7:30 p.m. event starts. Cure Insurance Arena, 81 Hamilton Ave., Trenton. To buy tickets, visit tinyurl.com/tgl4qkq.

Saturdays and Sundays, May 23-24; May 30-31; June 6-7

NJ Renaissance Faire. The faire has always had a soft spot for the little guy, and this season follows Will Scarlett, nephew of Robin Hood (he will be there too, with Maid Marion), pursued by the Sheriff of Nottingham, and defended by the Merry Men and Women of Sherwood Forest. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Liberty Lake, 1195 Florence-Columbus Road, Bordentown. For more information, visit NJRenFaire.com, YouYube.com/NJrenfaire and Facebook.com/NewJerseyRenFaire.

CosmeticforDentistry CLASSIC SMILES

Presented by James J. Cally, D.M.D. PLAQUE NEVER SLEEPS The reason it is so important to brush and floss twice daily has everything to do with the nature of the substance that is constantly growing on our teeth. Not to be confused with the fatty substance of the same name that builds up in arteries, “plaque” is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. You may not see it, but you know it is there when your teeth feel “fuzzy” to the tongue if you skip a brushing. Plaque develops when bacteria feed on sugars and carbohydrates in the foods and liquids we eat and drink. As they do, the bacteria in plaque produces acids that attack tooth enamel, causing cavities and compromising gum health.

And because plaque never sleeps, you shouldn’t go to sleep either without attending to your nightly ritual of brushing and flossing (and, ideally water flossing, too)

to keep the dangers of gum disease at bay. We can help too by providing complete general dental care, from cleanings to full mouth reconstruction to repair of any damage done by neglect or trauma. Please call us at 609-924-8300 for an appointment at Montgomery Knoll, 192 Tamarack Circle, Skillman. “Our commitment is to relationships of partnership, respect, and appreciation.”

“We offer cosmetic and family dentistry as well as Zoom!® and Invisalign®.”

Please e-mail your questions or comments to: drjamescally@yahoo.com P.S. If dental plaque is not removed with a toothbrush and floss, it can harden into “tartar” in as little as two days and is so hard that it can only be removed with professional scraping tools.

Please email your questions to: drjamescally@yahoo.com Visit our website at: www.mysmiledoc.com

Tues., May 26

“Quakers: The Quiet Revolutionaries,” by Princeton filmmaker Janet Gardner, will be shown at 11 p.m. May 26 on WNYC, and on public television stations across the country over the coming year. Scenes in the film were shot at the Princeton Friends meeting and include interviews with local members.

The 57-minute film tells the story of a spiritual movement that has played a role in the religious, social and political life of the nation.

Demonstrating an influence disproportionate to their numbers, Quakers have led anti-slavery, civil rights and women’s rights movements and been strong advocates for world peace.

Gardner began planning the documentary in 2012 after visiting Pendle Hill in Lancashire, U.K., where George Fox started the religion in the 1600s.

Richard Nurse of Franklin Township served as senior producer and narrator.

The film was made possible by support from The John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation, Obadiah Brown’s Benevolent Fund, Thomas H. & Mary Williams Shoemaker Fund, Tyson Memorial Fund, John Pemberton Fund and others.

Mon., June 1

The Dr. Esther Wollin Memorial Scholarship Fund offers a scholarship opportunity available to Jewish female students who reside in the Princeton Mercer Bucks community.

Monies from Dr. Wollin’s estate were designated to grant a college scholarship to eligible Jewish female full-time students who will be, or are already attending Rutgers University and raised by their Jewish mother in a single-parent household in the Princeton Mercer Bucks Community. Eligibility is based on financial need. Submission deadline is June 1. For more information or to apply, visit www.

JFCSonline.org, or contact Joyce at 609-987-8100 or JoyceW@JFCSonline.org.

Offered by Jewish Family & Children’s Services of Greater Mercer County.

Mon., June 9

Princeton PFLAG meeting. PFLAG is a support group for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals. Peer-facilitated discussion and information sharing in a safe, confidential, nonjudgmental setting. Refreshments.

Newcomers welcome. Serving Central New Jersey and beyond. 7-9

p.m. Trinity Church, 33 S. Mercer St., Princeton. Visit pflagprinceton.org for more information.

Thurs., June 18

Women of Achievement Awards Breakfast.

The annual Women of Achievement Awards recognize women in the Princeton Mercer Region for their unique contributions and activities in their fields of interest, who through their work and determinations have successfully attained the respect of their peers and the acknowledgment of the business community. Tickets: Members: $50; Future Members: $65; Full Table of 12: $600. 8 a.m.-10:30 a.m. TPC Jasna Polana, 4519 Province Line Road, Princeton. 609-9241776.

Sat., June 27 and Sun., June 28 Clean Up Weekend in Cranbury. This is the weekend to dispose of large household items that are too large to fit into the trash bin, or unwanted items not worthy of donating. No household trash, construction from contractors, household hazardous waste, paint or carcasses will be accepted.

Sun., June 28

sexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals. Peer-facilitated discussion and information sharing in a safe, confidential, nonjudgmental setting. Refreshments.

Newcomers welcome. Serving Central New Jersey and beyond. 7-9 p.m. Trinity Church, 33 S. Mercer St., Princeton. Visit pflagprinceton.org for more information.

Tues., July 14

Disney Institute 2020. The Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton will host Disney Institute: Disney’s Approach To Leadership Excellence. This course is based on a timetested approach demonstrated by leaders. They’ve learned that leaders who intentionally nurture an environment of mutual trust and respect tend to drive stronger employee performance, which leads to exceptional customer service—and ultimately—improved business results. 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Robert Wood Johnson Conference Center @ RWJ Fitness & Wellness, 3100 Quakerbridge Road. To register, visit tinyurl.com/uy8oxey.

Fri., July 24 Sun., July 26

Preserving the Pinelands: Albert Horner’s Portraits of a National Treasure. The exhibit will feature images which capture the beauty and landscapes of New Jersey’s Pinelands National Reserve by photographer Albert Horner, and artifacts from the NJ State Museum’s collections which tell some of the stories of the land, animals, people and industries that make the reserve a state and national treasure. NJ State Museum, 205 W. State St., Trenton. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/ y2qgvkqs.

The New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning and PNC Bank are inviting New Jersey students in grades 2-12 to take part in the 17th annual PNC Bank “American Patriot Essay Contest” by writing a short essay on the topic “What the American Flag Means to Me.” The Grand Prize winner will receive the opportunity to take a ride in a 75-foot-tall hot air balloon in front of their classmates at their school in June and then fly in one of the 100 hot air balloons at this year’s 38th annual balloon fest, scheduled Solberg Airport in Readington. Entries should be mailed to Essay Judges, New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning, 363 Route 46 West, Suite 200, Fairfield 07004; or emailed to pncessay@balloonfestival.com.

Entries should include the student’s name, grade and age; the school name, address and telephone number; and the name of their teacher and the teacher’s school email address. The deadline to enter is May 1.

Additional information may be found at www.balloonfestival.com/pncessay.

Mon., July 13

Fri., August 7

Historical and architectural walking tours of Cranbury. The tour is approximately two hours long, covering the history and architecture of the oldest founded village in New Jersey (1697). A contribution of $7 per person is suggested; proceeds go to the Cranbury Historical and Preservation Society. 2 p.m.

Cranbury Museum, 4 Park Place E., Cranbury. To register, call tour guide Richard Moody at 609-819-1359.

Princeton PFLAG meeting. PFLAG is a support group for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bi-

Watch an artist create a masterpiece before your eyes. Part art studio, part rock group, part creation

lab, Artrageous takes audiences on a visual journey and high-energy ride of inspiration, creativity and engagement, paying tribute to a variety of art forms, icons and musical genres.

It’s a frenzy of movement and color as lines and brush strokes appear on giant canvasses, culminating in a gallery of fabulous finished paintings. 7 p.m. Aug. 7, Raritan Valley Community College, 118 Lamington Road, Branchburg. Tickets are $30-$40.

Sat., August 8

Relive the experience of a live Motown concert, circa 1964, during “Shadows of the ’60s.” For all ages. 8 p.m. Aug. 8, Raritan Valley Community College, 118 Lamington Road, Branchburg. Tickets are $30-$40.

Mon., Aug. 11

Princeton PFLAG meeting. PFLAG is a support group for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals. Peer-facilitated discussion and information sharing in a safe, confidential, nonjudgmental setting. Refreshments.

Newcomers welcome. Serving Central New Jersey and beyond. 7-9 p.m. Trinity Church, 33 S. Mercer St., Princeton. Visit pflagprinceton.org for more information.

Through Sun., Sept. 13

“Fine Feathered Friends: Birds as Mainstay and Muse.” The New Jersey State Museum is pleased to announce a new exhibition that brings the fun of birdwatching indoors through nearly 200 rarely seen artifacts and specimens exploring birds as an ecological mainstay and their role as a design-inspiring force, or muse, for New Jersey artisans. Free. Museum hours: 9 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.

Tuesday – Sunday. Auditorium galleries hours: 9 a.m.

– 4:30 p.m. Tuesday – Friday. For more information, visit statemuseum.nj.gov.

Mon., Sept. 14

Princeton PFLAG meeting. PFLAG is a support group for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals. Peer-facilitated discussion and information sharing in a safe, confidential, non-judgmental setting. Refreshments. Newcomers welcome. Serving Central New Jersey and

See CALENDAR , Page 6A

Baseball Will Be Back!

LIFESTYLE 

ria pri  

The Princeton Packet

LOOSE ENDS

By Pam Hersh

Stopping the devastation of COVID-19

I

n the spring of 2019, Dr. Craig Gronczewski, the chair of Emergency Services at Penn Medicine Princeton Health, was focused on operational improvement at the hospital that had become part of the University of Pennsylvania Health System in January 2018.

With an MD from Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, Craig’s imperative one year ago was, in his words, “implementing clinical best practices, positioning the emergency department towards a frontier in operational effectiveness, and putting patient experience front and center.”

Among other things, the doctors and administrators had completed the integration and implementation of a new state-of-the-art electronic medical records system for the entire campus. Although extremely complex and important to the internal workings of the hospital, the initiatives proceeded without any notice from the outside world.

In the spring of 2020, Dr. Craig Gronczewski, still the emergency room chair, as well as the just appointed associate chief medical officer of Penn Medicine Princeton Health, was focused on one thing only: stopping the devastation of COVID-19, a crisis being noticed by – and inescapably jarring – the outside world.

The current COVID situation, once they’ve recovered. Their comhe said, is unlike any other opera- mitment is humbling. tional or medical challenge he has “Fighting back on the outbreak faced since he started working 20 has been the most important and years ago. “I want to emphasize demanding part of my career. It’s the seriousness of this virus. It is also helped me define my purpose. not just the flu. I bristle when I hear This is why I am here. This is what I that from people. … This disease trained for in emergency medicine. attacks the body in unprecedented This is why I went into emergency ways. No one should underestimate medicine. … On one hand, no one the destructive signed up for power of COthis. But on the VID-19. other hand, this “When I go is exactly what home and actuwe – all of ally have time these incredible to think for a people workminute about ing with me – my own feelsigned up for. ings – my own It is no random family – I get reason why we to process the are here doing emotional imthis. Our skills, Dr. Craig Gronczewski, pact this panour values, our Chair of the emergency room at demic has had personalities Penn Medicine Princeton Health on our frontline brought us to workers. Dethese jobs in spite the feelings of anxiety and ex- the first place. So yes, the scope of haustion that may sometimes set in, this crisis is unimaginable, but our my colleagues and I still go on. As ability and desire to deal with it is Nelson Mandela once said, ‘Cour- why we are here.” age is the triumph over fear.’ I’ve Craig reported that recently he been absolutely moved by all the has seen a leveling of new COVcourageous healthcare workers that ID-19 cases. Four weeks ago, the I’ve been honored to work along- forecast for hospitalizations ranged side. I know of physicians and from challenging to unmanageable nurses who are home with COV- for New Jersey. Now it is challengID-19, and they ask me when they ing, but manageable. can get back to caring for patients “Princeton Medical Center and

Penn have amazing leadership. The hospital has been and remains well positioned to manage it all. The deaths however, no matter the final count, will remain too many.”

The goal in our community is to flatten the curve. The goal in the hospital, Craig said, is to stay ahead of that curve, regardless of what its eventual shape may be. “We will never let our guard down. We will continue to prepare for the future in terms of operational strategy and equipment. The use of a tent outside of the emergency room to screen for and isolate people with respiratory ailments has worked very well for the hospital as a way to mitigate the risk of exposure to staff and patients. After all, we still must be ready to treat other medical situations, i.e., childbirth, fractures, strokes, heart attacks, cancer-related emergencies.”

Sept. 11, 2001 (9/11), changed emergency medicine in a profound way, Craig said. 9/11 occurred the first year he was in practice. From that point on, the training for a mass casualty incident, whether caused by man or nature, has been all Craig has known. COVID-19 is mass casualty, but one that lasts – not a day, not a week, not a month, but many, many months.

“Some researchers are saying we have a very long way to go.

And until we have a vaccine for this particular virus and even after,

we never can be complacent as far as preparations. Who knows when the next strain will infect communities around the world?”

He asked the community to do its part as far as responding to COVID-19. “It sounds cliché at this point, but hand washing, social distancing and masking are crucial.

“We never can let our guard down. This COVID-19 pandemic experience will change emergency medical preparedness similarly to the way 9/11 transformed emergency medical preparedness. Hospitals throughout the country from this point forward will be better prepared as far as equipment, training and operational strategies.”

One year ago, I contacted Craig, with whom I worked several years ago at Princeton HealthCare System, when he wrote a column for the Princeton Packet about summertime preparedness. Summertime, he warned, is a time when emergency room visits spike – with patients suffering medical crises from heat exhaustion, fireworks, severe sunburn, bites and stings, poison ivy and drowning. I texted him to say thank you for the good advice. Now I want to text everyday to say in all caps THANK YOU to him and his co-workers for their inspiring efforts. I really look forward to the time when I am texting him, once again, about sunburns.

Democratic candidates urge donations to charities, not their campaigns

By LEA KAHN Staff Writer

The three Democratic Party candidates for two open seats on the Princeton Council in the July 7 Democratic Party primary, as well as the only Democratic Party candidate for mayor, said they are not going to accept campaign contributions.

Instead, the campaigns of incumbent Princeton Council members David Cohen and Leticia Fraga and challenger Dina Shaw, along with mayoral candidate Mark Freda, have asked would-be donors to give money to Princeton charities.

Freda is running unopposed for the Democratic Party nomination for mayor, but a three-way race among Cohen, Fraga and Shaw has shaped up for the nomination for the two Princeton Council seats in the Democratic Party primary.

Citing the impact of COVID-19 on residents and businesses alike, the campaigns of Cohen, Fraga and Freda agreed in a joint statement that the money would be better spent if it were given to the Coronavirus Emergency Relief Fund, which can be reached through the Princeton Children’s Fund, Inc. at www.princetonchildrensfund.org.

The Coronavirus Emergency Relief Fund is a joint effort of Princeton Human Services, Princeton Community Hous-

ing, the Princeton Senior Resource Center, Housing Initiatives of Princeton and the Princeton Children’s Fund.

“In light of the economic challenges accompanying the struggle to control the spread of COVID-19, with many residents out of work and local businesses shuttered or operating on a shoestring, it strikes us as insensitive to continue political fundraising and campaign expenditures on lawn signs, mailings and paid advertisements as though nothing out of the ordinary was going on,” Cohen said, speaking on behalf of his own campaign and those of Fraga and Freda.

The money that donors would have given to the three campaigns could be better spent by aiding residents who are struggling with adversity, Cohen said. That’s why Cohen, Fraga and Freda are urging their supporters to donate to charity.

Besides the Coronavirus Emergency Relief Fund, they suggested that donors could give money to the Princeton Area Community Foundation, which has created a fund to support non-profit groups that have been impacted by pandemic.

Fraga said she has not conducted any fundraisers and has not accepted any contributions, nor does she intend to do so.

“It does not feel right” to be campaigning at all, given the current health and economic crises, she said.

Cohen said he is not soliciting campaign contributions

– but if he were to receive any campaign contributions, he would pass them on to one of the charities that he, Fraga and Freda are trying to promote.

Freda posted a statement on his campaign website, www. markfredaformayor.com, which said,” A number of you have asked me about supporting our fellow residents that need food and/or financial assistance. I suggest you consider donating to local charities addressing these needs instead of donating to my campaign at this time. I will continue to campaign on social media and be available in person or by email.”

While Cohen, Fraga and Freda have said they will not put up campaign lawn signs, but instead use social media and other, unpaid COVID-19 safe means to reach out to voters, Shaw intends to place campaign signs on supporters’ lawns.

Shaw, who is self-funding her campaign, said the lawn signs were locally designed and purchased in February – before the outbreak of COVID-19. She also is going to reach out to voters through sponsored Facebook posts and advertisements in local media.

Early in the campaign, Shaw received unsolicited donations from friends who wanted to contribute to her campaign, which is self-funded. Subsequent inquiries that she has received about campaign donations have been directed to local Princeton organizations.

Lewis Center for the Arts names newest art fellows at Princeton University Princeton University has announced its newest art fellows for the Lewis Center for the Arts: writer Danez Smith and theater director Will Davis.

Smith and Davis will begin two years of teaching and community collaboration in September, which will end in 2022.

The Arts Fellows program of the Lewis Center provides support for early-career artists who have demonstrated both extraordinary promise and a record of achievement in their fields with the opportunity to further their work while teaching within a liberal arts context, according to the university.

The program’s is funded in part by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, the David E. Kelley ’79 Society of Fellows Fund, and the Maurice R. Greenberg Scholarship Fund. Fellows are selected for a two-year residency to teach a course each semester or, in lieu of a course, to undertake an artistic assignment that deeply engages undergraduate students, such as directing a play, conducting a music ensemble, or choreographing a dance piece.

Smith and Davis were selected from a pool of over 500 applicants in dance, music, creative writing, theater and the visual arts.

“We had our strongest pool of applicants ever this year, across all disciplines,” said Stacy Wolf, director of fellowships. “Danez and Will will be phenomenal additions to our community as artists and as teachers, and we’re thrilled to support their work for the next two years. We’re especially happy to share good news, which we all need during these challenging times.”

Smith is a black, queer, poz writer and performer from St. Paul, Minnesota. Smith is the author of Homie (Graywolf Press, 2020); Don’t Call Us Dead (Graywolf Press, 2017), winner of the Forward Prize for Best Collection, the Midwest Booksellers Choice Award, and a finalist for the National Book Award, according to the university.

Davis is a trans-identified director and choreographer

focused on physically adventurous new work for the stage.

His off-Broadway credits include Road Show at Encores!

Off-Center; India Pale Ale at Manhattan Theatre Club.

“Once again, we’re thrilled to welcome world-class artists to the Princeton community as Princeton Arts Fellows,” said Tracy Smith, chair of the Lewis Center. “Danez Smith’s work has made an indelible and world-clarifying

imprint upon poetry in America and abroad. And Will Davis’s work affirms theater’s miraculous ability to transform the humble and familiar into the extraordinary and revelatory. What a privilege it will be to engage with such remarkable and generous artists.”

For more information about the art fellows, visit www. arts.princeton.edu.

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The Princeton Packet

HEALTH MATTERS

By Denise M. Wyers

Frequently Asked Questions: COVID-19

A

s the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have questions about the virus, which has touched communities near and far, including here in Central New Jersey.

Doctors and scientists around the globe are working nonstop to learn as much as they can about COVID-19, and while there is still much they don’t know, a lot is known.

Q. What is COVID-19 and how does it spread?

A. COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can spread from person-to-person in a fashion similar to that of other respiratory viruses. You can get the virus from inhaling particles sprayed into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, especially if you are within six feet of an infected person.

You can also get the virus from touching a surface that an infected person coughed or sneezed on and then transferring the virus to your body by touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Q. What are the symptoms?

A. Symptoms of the virus can be very similar to other seasonal respiratory infections like colds and influenza. Most commonly these include fever, muscle aches, cough and difficulty breathing. Most people with COVID-19 have only mild flu-like and respiratory symptoms, which can be managed at home. However, some people may develop severe pneumonia and breathing problems that require hospitalization. Some people may experience diarrhea. Another common symptom is loss of taste, though loss of taste may occur with other viral infections as well.

Q. How is COVID-19 different from the flu?

A. Though both are respiratory viruses causing similar symptoms, COVID-19 is far more lethal than the flu. According to

THE STATE WE’RE IN

ria pri  

the New Jersey Department of Health, as of April 6, an estimated 5.5% of reported COVID-19 cases globally had died. In the United States, an estimated 4% of patients with COVID-19 infection have died. By comparison, seasonal flu generally kills about 0.1% of those infected.

Q. Am I at risk?

A. At this time, COVID-19 is widespread throughout many communities within the United States. You may be particularly at risk for getting the virus if you have traveled to an area with widespread transmission or live in an area of the country with a particularly high number of cases.

You should discuss with your primary care doctor if you are concerned about exposure to people with known COVID-19 infection, or if you have symptoms such as fever and cough or shortness of breath.

Older adults (especially over age 60) and those with chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension and lung disease are at highest risk for getting pneumonia and requiring hospitalization from COVID-19. Patients with conditions that result in weak immune systems (from steroids, cancer drugs, HIV, organ or bone marrow transplants, etc.) may also be more susceptible to developing serious complications of infection.

It is not known if pregnant women are at higher risk of problems from COVID-19; however, it is always important for pregnant women to protect themselves from illnesses.

Q. How can I stay safe and keep my family safe?

A. At present, there are no available vaccines to prevent COVID-19 infection, or treatments to cure this infection. However, research and clinical trials are being done to create a vaccine and study possible drugs that have activity against the virus.

The best way to prevent illness is to

avoid being exposed to this virus by following these guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Stay home as much as possible.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

• Practice social distancing: Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Stay at least six feet away from other people.

• Clean and disinfect high-touch objects and surfaces (counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and bedside tables, light switches) using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

• Wear cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission. Face coverings serve more to prevent people from spreading the virus to other people than from protecting the wearer from acquiring infection.

Q. I feel fine, why do I need to stay home?

A. Infected people can transmit the virus to others before showing symptoms, which means you could be spreading the virus without even knowing it.

To slow the spread and protect the capacity for New Jersey’s healthcare system for the state’s most vulnerable, the state has directed all residents to stay home until further notice. The order provides for certain

exceptions, such as: • Obtaining essential goods or services, • Seeking medical attention, • Visiting family or close friends (should only be done if essential), • Reporting to work, and • Engaging in outdoor activities.

In addition, all gatherings of individuals, such as parties, celebrations, or other social events, unless otherwise authorized, are prohibited. When in public, individuals must practice social distancing and stay at least six feet apart whenever possible, excluding immediate family members, caretakers, household members, or romantic partners.

Individuals must use a face covering when shopping at essential retail businesses, entering a restaurant or bar to pick up takeout orders, and when traveling on train, bus, light rail or paratransit vehicle.

Q. What should I do if I develop symptoms?

A. Stay home and call your healthcare provider. They will help decide if you need further evaluation or testing. If you are not sick enough to be hospitalized, you can recover at home and avoid exposing or infecting others.

Call 911 if you develop these signs: • Difficulty breathing • Lasting pain or pressure in the chest • New confusion or failure to stay awake • Bluish lips or face As the effects of COVID-19 are felt throughout Central Jersey, Penn Medicine Princeton Health remains committed to providing high-quality, comprehensive care to the community 24/7. To learn more, visit www.princetonhcs.org.

David J. Herman, MD, is board certified in infectious disease and internal medicine.

He is the chairman of the Infectious Diseases Committee at Penn Medicine Princeton Health.

By Michele S. Byers

Reflecting on the 50th anniversary of Earth Day

F

ifty years ago, people took to streets and campuses across America to sound the alarm on pollution and demand stronger environmental protections.

The occasion was the first Earth Day on April 22, 1970, an idea conceived by U.S. Sen. Gaylord Nelson after witnessing the ecological damage caused by a massive oil spill in California the year before.

Across the country, an estimated 20 million people celebrated the inaugural Earth Day by taking part in cleanups, teach-ins, lectures and peaceful demonstrations. In New Jersey, the state officially launched the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

The journalist Peter Benchley (who went on to write “Jaws”) reported at the time, “Earth Day has accomplished what no individual or organization has been able to do in years – the unification of large and diverse segments of the American populace in common purpose.”

Over the last 50 years, Earth Day has become a spring ritual, a time to teach children about the environment, plant trees and gardens, pick up litter in parks and on beaches, renew calls for environmental protection and look for ways to live more sustainably.

This year, Earth Day will be a subdued occasion due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Schools are closed and organized cleanups and public celebrations – like the one planned in Trenton for the DEP’s 50th anniversary – have been postponed.

But it’s worth taking a moment to remember Earth Day’s roots as a common cause uniting all people – young and old, conservative and liberal, urban and rural. We all need clean air, clean water and lands capable of supporting life.

Fifty years after the first Earth Day, however, protecting the environment is anything but a nonpartisan cause. In Washington, D.C., the push for environmental rollbacks has been unrelenting, even as the nation’s attention has been focused on battling COVID-19.

Proposed rollbacks include weakening automobile fuel efficiency standards, loosening controls on toxic ash from coal plants, relaxing restrictions on mercury emissions, eliminating some protections for migratory birds, and weakening the consideration of climate change in environmental reviews for most infrastructure projects.

All told, these rollbacks could significantly increase greenhouse gas emissions and lead to thousands of more deaths from poor air quality every year, according to a report

by New York University Law School’s State Energy and Environmental Impact Center.

Given the threat to our health from COVID-19, we can ill afford to roll back regulations that protect the public from the impacts of pollution.

Fortunately, New Jersey has a long history of bipartisan efforts to protect our air, water, land and wildlife.

Gov. Phil Murphy and his administration

Publication of the Time Off section has been temporarily suspended.

Articles that run in the Time Off section will be published in the main section of this newspaper.

have firmly demonstrated their commitment to protecting our environment through enforcement actions against polluters, tackling climate change and charting the course toward 100% clean energy by 2050.

And just last week, the DEP finalized stronger protections for 600 miles of rivers and streams throughout the state. Many of these new Category 1 streams are part of river systems that supply drinking water to millions of residents and support a diversity of wildlife.

Amid the human tragedy caused by the coronavirus, one side effect of shutdowns and stay-at-home orders has been a cleaner environment. Due to fewer vehicles on the road, decreased air traffic and industries operating at lower capacity, air quality around the world has improved. Water quality has also gotten better.

“The coronavirus is obviously not a good thing and this catastrophe is not the way any reasonable person would plan on having the world lower its carbon footprint,” said Robert Routh, an attorney with the Clean Air Council, in an interview with PBS station WHYY. “But if anything, it should demonstrate that climate change is driven by human activity and our actions and behaviors, on a wide scale, affect emissions.”

Why not put the right plans and policies in place to transition our electric, transportation, building and industrial sectors away from fossil fuels to clean sources of energy?

This would rapidly and significantly reduce the emissions that harm our health and climate. Investing in a clean energy economy would also create thousands of good, local jobs and help put people back to work.

Why not focus on banning harmful chemicals worldwide, reducing all but essential plastics, conserving energy and raw materials every day, restoring forests on a massive scale and restoring soils using non-chemical agriculture?

Why not take action now on climate change and climate mitigation to decrease impacts on populations most vulnerable to sea level rise, drought and famine?

The COVID-19 crisis has demonstrated the critical importance of taking proactive and comprehensive measures to protect our health and our families.

It is critical to protect the lands and waters that are essential to our health and quality of life, and to maintain and strengthen the laws and regulations that protect us from the harmful effects of air and water pollution.

The original idea behind the first Earth Day 50 years ago still rings true today. Citizens can take action today and make sure elected officials at all levels hear this call. For our health and our planet’s health, let’s make every day Earth Day! Michele S. Byers is the executive director of the New Jersey Conservation Foundation, Far Hills. She may be reached at info@njconservation.org

McCarter Theatre to lay off majority of full-time and seasonal staff in May

By ANDREW HARRISON Staff Writer

The coronavirus pandemic has forced layoffs at several not-for-profit organizations in Princeton, which includes the McCarter Theatre Center.

The theater’s Board of Trustees and management announced on April 17 that they were laying off a majority of full time and seasonal staff as of May 15.

“We will continue to provide health insurance for those impacted employees through June. We also have been able to meet our obligations to the artists involved with the productions and performances that were canceled this season,” said Robert Caruso, president of McCarter Board of Trustees. “With no clear timeline for restarting performances, and the general uncertainty about the length of social distancing, we believe it is best to focus on the long-term health of the organization.”

He added that the financial steps they take at this time are vitally important to securing the organization’s future.

“We believe these difficult but necessary decisions will put us in a stable position when we are able to resume our programming and bring audiences back to McCarter in the months ahead,” Caruso said. “With the support of our community, we look forward to the day when our stages come alive, and we can gather once again to create the human connections we so desperately need and desire.”

The theater’s staff includes costume makers, stage technicians, sound engineers, carpenters and house services staff.

Since the coronavirus pandemic canceled the rest of the 2019-20 season for the theater, the not-for-profit has developed an online portal to engage supporters and audiences through McCarter@Home, a virtual classroom and performance space.

Friday, April 24, 2020

The Princeton Packet 5A

www.princetonpacket.com

Hun School Class of 1970 holds reunion virtually The Hun School of Princeton’s annual Alumni Weekend festivities may have been postponed because of COVID-19, but that did not stop the Class of 1970 from connecting—at least virtually.

It had been 50 years since some of the 21 classmates and three faculty members had seen each other, but the conversation flowed as if it were yesterday, according to information provided by The Hun School.

Dr. David Diamond was set to receive the Distinguished Alumnus of the Year award, but instead of celebrating in person, he was cheered on by 20 of his classmates through Zoom, according to the statement.

He shared news of what he has been doing the last five decades, both professionally and personally.

In turn, each of the alumni shared highlights of their post-Hun life—lives shaped by careers in medicine, business, banking and other professions, as well as marriages, divorces, children and grandchildren, according to the statement.

“This has been a rewarding day to see all my classmates,” Mike Maguire, who served as a member of the Reunion Committee, said in the statement. “For some, it has been 50 years since I’ve seen them, and some not, but it’s wonderful to see everyone. I never

know how much you all meant to me until years later. You were all instrumental in making me the man I am today.”

As reunion banter often does, the conversation soon turned to fond memories spent in the classroom and on the athletic field. Michael Rossi pointed out that Spider (Mike Maguire) “made everybody play better. We had a great run.” Stephen Peters joked that Jack Bader has been one of his best friends since the summer of 1966 when both had to attend summer school. Al Berger attended dental school at Georgetown University and ran into Don Marazzo, who was studying at the Georgetown Medical School, according to the statement.

Plenty of good-natured ribbing also took place. Barry Group thanked former faculty member Sandy Bing and former Headmaster Jim Byer for “letting him stay.” Sam Gidding, now a pediatric cardiologist, had three questions for the former faculty attending the call; Gidding asked Bing if he needed a haircut, asked Byer if he would get thrown out for drinking wine on the Zoom call, and told former faculty member Dave Leete that he was scarred for life by getting cut from the basketball team his senior year, according to the statement.

Perhaps the biggest reveal came from Ed

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HUN SCHOOL OF PRINCETON

The Class of 1970 of the Hun School of Princeton recently held its 50th reunion using Zoom.

Haas, who finally came clean that he was the one who glued all of the doors shut in Carter Hall, according to the statement.

While the virtual setting was a departure from the traditional on campus celebration, it was equally meaningful, especially when the time came for Marc Shapiro and Davida Keefe to share their stories: Shapiro was di-

agnosed with a brain tumor in 2015 and has been waging a brave fight ever since, while Keefe is currently undergoing chemotherapy, according to the statement.

The group is planning to meet next year at Rossi’s Bar & Grill on the Thursday night before Alumni Weekend and see each other again—this time in person.

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6A The Princeton Packet

SOLUTIONS

www.princetonpacket.com

Calendar

By Huck Fairman

Continued from Page 2A

The Other Crisis

W

hile we are contending with the coronavirus, we have another, potentially more devastating crisis looming, one that we are already well into.

This is, of course, the climate crisis that has been impacting much of the world for a number of years now. Our primary source for measuring global climate trends, NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) has measured that January was the planet’s warmest one in recorded history, last February was the second-warmest February, and March was also the second warmest March on record.

What NOAA is informing us of is that we are in a “long-term warming trend.”

Why does NOAA use the word “trend”?

Because its measuring has revealed that last month was the 44th consecutive March, and the 423rd month, with temperatures above the 20th century average. The average temperature over both land and ocean surfaces was 2.9 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than the 20th century average. Only March 2016 was warmer. In fact, 2016 remains the hottest year on record.

Elsewhere around the globe, South America experienced its warmest March on record. Parts of Europe, Asia, and Australia all saw hotter-than usual temperatures in March.

In the states, the East and South saw warmer-than-usual temperatures in February, and Florida experienced the warmest-ever March. In contrast, California saw cooler-than average temperatures in

March, while Alaska had its coldest January through March since 2012. Nonetheless, bordering Alaska, the Arctic ice shrank to its 11th least extent ever. Usually March sees a year’s greatest expansion of sea ice, but this year the ice footprint was “small.”

Continuing the globally variability, the area covered by Antarctic sea ice was “average.” But again, the global average temperatures were near record levels, and the likelihood is that 2020 will be the warmest since record-keeping began in 1880.

A second, related trend has also been underway. A new study reported by the Associated Press Health and Science Department found that much of the western United States has been baking in an “emerging megadrought.” It has existed now for two decades and is one of the deepest droughts in 1,200 years. It is the first one experienced in recorded U.S. history. The states experiencing this extended dryness are: California, Oregon, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and Idaho. Strangely, Wyoming does not have large areas suffering from drought.

Although last year, 2019, was unusually wet, with floods covering much of the middle of the country, the moisture in the west was not nearly enough to compensate for the years of drought.

Scientists have studied thousands of tree rings to compare this drought, which started in the year 2000, with the four other megadroughts which started in the year 800. The largest prior drought started in 1575, 10 years after the founding of St. Augustine, the first European city in the New World,

Friday, April 24, 2020

and ended just before 1620, when the Pilgrims landed on Plymouth Rock.

Recently, water managers have warned that this year the Rio Grande River flow will be less than half of what is normal. Also, New Mexico’s largest reservoir will hold only a third of its normal, 30-year average water level.

Those studying the situation estimate that roughly half of this ongoing drought can be attributed to man-made global warming. Whatever the primary causes, there will be major impacts. This emerging megadrought has transformed what might have been a moderate, long-term drought into a “severe event comparable to megadroughts of centuries past.”

This climate event has seen increasing average temperatures, now reaching 2.9 degrees Fahrenheit higher – levels that suck moisture out of the ground.

The resulting changes will affect agriculture, live-stocks, drinking water, wild life, forests, wild fires … and tourism.

Again, globally, 2020 is predicted to be the warmest year on record.

To address these very serious changes, we need a president and state governors who will acknowledge the changes and, as much as possible, take the necessary corrective steps. Most important, and effective, will be turning away from our dependence of fossil fuels, to renewable energy. Instead, our current president is rolling back environmental protections. This will only make the drought, and the global climate crisis, worse.

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Mon., July 13

Princeton PFLAG meeting. PFLAG is a support group for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals. Peer-facilitated discussion and information sharing in a safe, confidential, non-judgmental setting. Refreshments. Newcomers welcome. Serving Central New Jersey and beyond. 7-9 p.m.

Trinity Church, 33 S. Mercer St., Princeton.

Visit pflagprinceton.org for more information.

Tues., July 14

Disney Institute 2020. The Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton will host Disney Institute: Disney’s Approach To Leadership Excellence. This course is based on a time-tested approach demonstrated by leaders. They’ve learned that leaders who intentionally nurture an environment of mutual trust and respect tend to drive stronger employee performance, which leads to exceptional customer service—and ultimately— improved business results. 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Robert Wood Johnson Conference Center @ RWJ Fitness & Wellness, 3100 Quakerbridge Road. To register, visit tinyurl.com/uy8oxey.

Fri., July 24- Sun., 26

The New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning and PNC Bank are inviting New Jersey students in grades 2-12 to take See CALENDAR , Page 7A

Friday, April 24, 2020

The Princeton Packet 7A

www.princetonpacket.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Opinion: Princeton Community Renew- Opinion: Those feeling isolated and depressed during coronavirus should able Energy program is a win-win Princeton is taking a great step for- will continue to maintain our electric wires reach out to a mental health professional ward in reducing its impact on the planet and deliver power to our homes. We will through the new Princeton Community Renewable Energy program. This program is a win-win for us all as it will increase demand for supply from regional renewable sources such as wind turbines, hydropower and solar arrays and will save us each a few dollars. One of the most exciting aspects of this particular program is its regional renewable supply lessening the use of fossil fuels by an expected 50%. This means that we are helping to improve regional air quality, create green jobs and other environmental benefits here in our region.

I was initially concerned about how the program would impact power delivery during power outages or when demand peaks on really hot summer days. After learning more, I understand that this program will not change our power delivery. PSE&G

still receive only one bill from PSE&G and all of their programs such as bank auto pay and “worry free” appliance services will continue.

I am excited about this Princeton municipal program and the progress it represents for promoting renewable energy.

I hope this serves as a model for other communities, some of which are already on board in various stages, and that other towns join us in taking this step forward.

On the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, this April 22, I understand that Princeton will be presenting more information on this laudable program. We will benefit as a community and be a good model for others.

Grace Sinden Princeton

Opinion: Urge Congress to allow national vote-by-mail

With the severity of the coronavirus situation and the upcoming elections on the horizon, it is crucial we protect our democracy and ensure Americans are able to vote without putting their health at risk.

Americans need to have access to national vote-by-mail through the November elections. Our vote and our voice is at stake.

If you agree that Americans should be able to vote without risk, sign on now.

We must not ignore the severity of this

As the coronavirus drags on in our society, what I have been seeing as a clinical psychologist is a growing fear and anxiety in our population as meaningful information about the extent and boundaries of the virus is still not adequately provided.

Also, I am starting to see more depression and boredom as people are not working and cut off from meaningful activities. Extended periods of time can also create feelings of isolation and loneliness. I am also seeing increases in anger and frustration as people are feeling resentment toward the government for doing the extended time away from work and seclusion at home.

Another issue is stigmatization as anybody that will cough in public or anybody that has known somebody with the virus is often shunned by others and treated as if they

have a fatal disease.

I encourage anyone experiencing any of the above to reach out to a mental health professional for help.

Also, examine all your worries and look for useful information. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has an app called PTSD Coach and offers strategies for imagery, breathing and other positive exercises. Focus on altruistic reasons for social distancing which might help with psychological distress.

We can increase our safety and reduce the possibility of transmitting COVID-19 by following physical distancing. We can beat this as a society when we connect and work together.

Ronald J. Coughlin, Ed.D. Mercerville

Calendar Continued from Page 6A

crisis and how it could affect our ability to vote. Vote-by-mail is imperative to ensure people can vote without fear.

Sign on now to join me in demanding Congress allow national vote-by-mail. To sign the petition, visit www.signherenow.org/ petition/vote-by-mail/watson-coleman/ Bonnie Watson Coleman Assemblywoman D-12

part in the 17th annual PNC Bank “American Patriot Essay Contest” by writing a short essay on the topic “What the American Flag Means to Me.” The Grand Prize winner will receive the opportunity to take a ride in a 75-foot-tall hot air balloon in front of their classmates at their school in June and then fly in one of the 100 hot air balloons at this year’s 38th annual balloon fest, scheduled Solberg Airport in Readington. Entries should be mailed to Es-

say Judges, New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning, 363 Route 46 West, Suite 200, Fairfield 07004; or emailed to pncessay@balloonfestival.com. Entries should include the student’s name, grade and age; the school name, address and telephone number; and the name of their teacher and the teacher’s school email address. The deadline to enter is May 1. Additional information may be found at www.balloonfestival.com/pncessay.

LEGAL NOTICES PRINCETON PLANNING BOARD NOTICE OF HEARING ON APPLICATION PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on Thursday, May 7, 2020 at 7:30 p.m., the Planning Board of Princeton will hold a public hearing via electronic means (as described below) to review testimony/presentation of Nelson Spring, LLC (“Applicant”) concerning a condition of approval related to an adaptive re-use and redevelopment project. Because of the state of emergency in New Jersey regarding COVID-19 (Coronavirus), the meeting will be held electronically via “Zoom.” Instructions for how to access the meeting are below and will also be posted on the home page of Princeton’s website (www.princetonnj.gov) and on the meeting agenda.

The Planning Board will convene its public meeting at 7:30 p.m. and will be held electronically via Zoom’s webinar service. Members of the public who wish to attend the meeting can choose from one of the following options:

The following resolution was introduced at the March 17, 2020 South Brunswick Fire District #3 Meeting. The first reading was on April 21st. The resolution will have it’s second reading at the April 28, 2020 South Brunswick Fire District #3 meeting.

Authorizing Creation of Paid Position of Fire Supervisor WHEREAS, there exists a need within Fire District No. 3 in the Township of South Brunswick, County of Middlesex, to create a paid position entitled “Fire Supervisor” to perform those duties as necessary; and WHEREAS, The Commissioners of Fire District No. 3 in the Township of South Brunswick, County of Middlesex have determined that they are desirous of creating said position.

NOW, THEREFORE, be it RESOLVED by The Commissioners of Fire District No. 3 in the Township of South Brunswick, County of Middlesex, as follows:

Computer access to the webinar: https://princeton.zoom.us/j/91337455415

(1) The position of Fire Supervisor is hereby established.

(2) The annual salary, benefits and terms and conditions of employment for this position shall be as determined by the Commissioners and as otherwise mandated by New Jersey statutory law.

(3) The Fire Supervisor shall undertake any and all responsibilities and administrative obligations relative to the fire district as required and as directed by the Commissioners.

(4) The Fire Supervisor shall be under the supervision of the Commissioner as designated by the Commissioners pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:14-81.3.

(5) This resolution shall take effect following final adoption and publication pursuant to New Jersey statutory law.

Or iPhone one-tap : US: +16465588656,,91337455415# or +13126266799,,91337455415# Or Telephone: Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 646 558 8656 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 346 248 7799 or +1 669 900 6833 or +1 253 215 8782 or 888 788 0099 (Toll Free) or 877 853 5247 (Toll Free) Webinar ID: 913 3745 5415 International numbers available: https://princeton.zoom.us/u/aks5TdJW Or an H.323/SIP room system: H.323: 162.255.37.11 (US West) 162.255.36.11 (US East) 221.122.88.195 (China) 115.114.131.7 (India Mumbai) 115.114.115.7 (India Hyderabad) 213.19.144.110 (EMEA) 103.122.166.55 (Australia) 209.9.211.110 (Hong Kong) 64.211.144.160 (Brazil) 69.174.57.160 (Canada) 207.226.132.110 (Japan) Meeting ID: 913 3745 5415 SIP: 91337455415@zoomcrc.com

NOTICE is hereby given that the above resolution was introduced and passed upon first reading at a regular meeting of the Commissioners held on _April 21____, 2020 and will be considered for final passage at a meeting to be held ______April 28____, 2020 at _7_ p.m. at the Board of Fire Commissioners, South Brunswick Fire District No. 3, Kingston Firehouse, 6 Heathcote Road, South Brunswick, New Jersey at which time and place any person wishing to be heard shall be given the opportunity.

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that copies of said resolution shall be made available to each person requesting a copy of same during the week prior to the second reading of this resolution and during the hearing concerning the same and said copies may be obtained from the Commissioners.

If logging in to Zoom via computer or mobile device for the first time, please allow a few extra minutes to install the program (if using a computer) or app (if using a mobile device). Once you log in, you will be asked to enter your name and an email address.

Applicant previously received approval, by resolution memorialized on June 21, 2018, allowing for the preservation of an existing 2 1/2 story residential building while re-developing the existing one story commercial building with six new residential units above the first floor (including one affordable housing unit). Thereafter, by resolution memorialized on January 23, 2020,Applicant received amended site plan approval, a revision to a condition of approval and variance relief to remove a parking space. During construction, Applicant encountered a series of unexpected structural issues which has resulted in a partial building demolition of the commercial building that was greater than anticipated. As required by Condition 18(u) of the June 21, 2018 Resolution, Applicant is returning to the Board to provide testimony on the reasons for the additional demolition work. The additional demolition work has no impact on the approved design and elevations. The subject property is located between Spring Street and Lincoln Court and is designated as Block 27.04, Lot 20 on the Tax Map of Princeton. The site is within the CB Central Business District and has a street address of 45 Spring Street.

Applicant requests any variances, waivers, amendments to conditions of approval, amended site plan approval, exceptions or other relief as may be required to permit the proposed development or which may result from the recommendations of the municipality or Planning Board in its professional review.

The application and all supporting documents are located on the municipal website https://www.princetonnj.gov/meetings/planning-board-may-7-2020 and are on file with the Princeton Planning Board, 400 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, N.J., Said materials are available for public inspection through the website provided above. Any questions may be directed to Christopher DeGrezia, Esquire, Attorney for the Applicant, c/o Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath, P. O. Box 627, Princeton, New Jersey 08542, (609) 716-6615 (christopher.degrezia@faregre.drinker.com).

Christopher DeGrezia, Esq. Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP Attorneys for Applicant PP, 1x, 4/24/19 Fee: $84.00 Affidavit: $15.00

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF PRINCETON PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF PRINCETON WILL HOLD A SPECIAL CLOSED SESSION MEETING ON TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2020.

Because of the state of emergency in New Jersey regarding COVID-19 (Coronavirus), the meeting will be held electronically via “Zoom.”

The Council will convene electronically in closed session from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

This portion of the meeting will not be open to the public. The matters to be discussed in closed session, to the extent known as of the date of this notice, are as follows: - Advice of counsel with respect to pending litigation and matters falling within the attorneyclient privilege regarding Princeton’s affordable housing declaratory judgment action (In the Matter of the Application of the Municipality of Princeton, Docket No. MER-L-1550-15) -Personnel- Director of Public Facilities & Operations Formal action will not be taken. The matters discussed will be made public when the need for confidentiality no longer exists.

We want to make sure everyone is safe and following Social Distancing norms. We ask that the public meetings be joined via Web Conference. To connect, use the following information.

To join by web conference use: https://meet.google.com/dar-hxej-srp To join by Audio Only, dial: (this is not a toll free number) Once the meeting has started, you will be added to the call. Please be patient.

If you come to the meeting location, you may be turned away.

By Order of the Commissioners South Brunswick Fire District No. 3

PP, 1x, 4/24/2020 Fee: $63.00 Affidavit: $15.00

NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC MEETINGS OF THE BOARDS, COMMISSION, COMMITTEES AND ADVISORY BOARDS & TASK FORCES OF PRINCETON DURING COVID-19 STATE OF EMERGENCY THE PUBLIC IS HEREBY ADVISED THAT due to the state of emergency in New Jersey regarding COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and the corresponding closure of Princeton’s municipal facilities, until further notice all regular and special meetings of the Boards, Commission, Committees and Advisory Boards & Task Forces of Princeton will be held electronically via “Zoom” instead of in person. The following Boards, Commissions, Committees and Advisory Boards & Task Forces of Princeton are listed as follows: Affordable Housing Animal Control Advisory Committee Bicycle Advisory Committee Board of Health Citizens Finance Advisory Committee Civil Rights Commission Construction Board of Appeals Corner House Board Economic Development Committee Princeton Environmental Commission Historic Preservation Commission Housing Authority Board Human Services Commission Library Board of Trustees

Board of Parks & Recreation Commissioners Planning Board Pubic Art Review Committee Sewer Operating Committee Shade Tree Commission Site Plan Review Advisory Board Stony Brook Regional Sewerage Authority Zoning Board of Adjustment Census 2020 Complete Count Committee Dog Park Task Force Flood & Stormwater Committee Permit Parking Task Force Transit Trust Fund

Instructions for how to access each meeting will be posted on the home page of Princeton’s website (www.princetonnj.gov) and set forth on the meeting agenda. Unless expressly noted otherwise, all Mayor and Council meetings will continue to take place on their regularly scheduled dates and at their regularly scheduled times.

Delores A. Williams Municipal Clerk

Delores A. Williams Municipal Clerk

PP, 1x, 4/24/2020 Fee: $40.95

PP, 1x, 4/24/2020 Fee: $28.35

WEST WINDSOR TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONTRACT AWARDS The Township Council of West Windsor has awarded/amended the following contracts without competitive bidding as professional services pursuant to NJSA 40A:11-5(1)(a) at their April 20, 2020 Business Session. These contracts and the resolutions authorizing them are available for public inspection in the Office of the Municipal Clerk.

Awarded To

Services

Time Period

Cost: Not to Exceed

Parker McCay, P.A.

Township Attorney Services

1/1/2020-12/31/2020

$65,000.00

Spiezle Architects

Architectural Services-Amendment #2 Municipal Building Renovations

through completion

$7,900.00 for a total not to exceed of $367,150.00

BANC3

Supplemental Engineering Work For the Cranbury Road Sidewalk

through completion

$27,851.00 for a total not to exceed of $152,735.00

Project

Gay M. Huber Township Clerk West Windsor Township PP, 1x, 4/24/2020 Fee: $35.00 NOTICE OF PENDING ORDINANCE 2020-11 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING AND SUPPLEMENTING CHAPTER 82 “FEES” SECTION 82-4 CONSTRUCTION FEES AND SECTION 82-5 – ELECTRICAL SUBCODE FEES OF THE CODE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF WEST WINDSOR The ordinance published herewith was introduced and passed upon first reading at a meeting of the governing body of the Township of West Windsor, in the County of Mercer, State of New Jersey, held on April 20, 2020. It will be further considered for final passage, after public hearing thereon, at a meeting of the governing body to be held in the West Windsor Township Municipal Building, in the Township on May 11, 20202 at 5:00 o'clock P.M., and during the weeks prior to and up to and including the date of such meeting, copies of said ordinance will be made available at the Clerk's office to the members of the general public who shall request the same.

Gay M. Huber Township Clerk West Windsor Township PP, 1x, 4/24/2020 Fee: $26.60

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8A The Princeton Packet

ON THE ROAD

Friday, April 24, 2020F

www.princetonpacket.com

PETER PERROTTA

SUBMITTED PHOTO

The 2020 Mercedes A220 4matic Sedan.

2020 Mercedes A220 4matic Sedan

S

even years ago when Mercedes introduced the CLA sedan model to the American market, it was supposed to be a game changer for the German automaker known for producing some of the finest luxury automobiles in the Peter Perrotta world.

This entry level sedan was aimed at capturing the Mercedes buyer at a younger age in their buying cycle and hopefully keeping them as customers until they matured and started making the big bucks. At that point, the logic was they could then afford the more expensive E or S class models.

I was working for Mercedes at the time of the CLA launch and I recall one Mercedes product executive telling me at that time that the future for Mercedes is “smaller and smaller.”

“Get ready,” he said. “You are going to see them start introducing smaller and smaller cars into the US market.”

He reasoned that Mercedes was not only intent on capturing the American buyer at an earlier age in their buying cycle but produc-

ing more fuel efficient cars, as well.

Keeping with that same trend, last year, Mercedes introduced the A class sedan into American and Canadian markets for the first time. The A class is smaller than the CLA and now represents Mercedes’ entry level sub compact sedan model.

I test drove the Mercedes Benz A220 4matic sedan for one week recently to see how well this relatively new offering in the U.S. market holds up against its competition.

Overall, I was impressed with this new model. While the 2.0 liter inline, 4 cylinder turbo charged engine (188 horsepower) is a bit weak for this model, it is sufficient enough to pass the test for the rigors of everyday family style driving. This is not an aggressive sports car, mind you.

However, at its entry level base prices – $32,800 for the front wheel drive version and $34,800 for the AWD 4matic – it offers a lot of bang for the buck and is reasonably priced enough to be affordable, providing you don’t load it up with too many extras.

The car that I tested for the week was the 4matic version with the base price of $34,800; however, my tester stickered at $43,745 with options.

The options on my tester included: $500 for 18-inch wheels; $850 for dynamic body control; $460 for Sirius XM radio; $580 for heated front seats; $310 for ambient lighting; $200 for wireless charging; $2,250 for

the driver assistance safety package; $1,150 for the multimedia package; $1,650 for the premium 1 package and $995 for destination and delivery.

Included in the driver assistance package are active brake assist, active distance assist, active lane keeping, emergency stop assist and more.

The multi-media package includes navigation; and the premium 1 package includes a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster with touchscreen, keyless go and more.

Standard features in the base model include: the 2.0 liter, 4 cylinder turbo engine with the 7-speed, dual clutch, automatic transmission; pano roof; Bluetooth; power driver’s seat; keyless start; dual zone climate; rearview camera; brushed aluminum trim and more.

The caveat, however, is that whenever you introduce an entry level model like this, you risk alienating the traditional Mercedes buyers who are used to impressing their friends with the quality and luxuriousness of their cars.

A longtime friend of mine, who worked for Mercedes for many years, said, “There is no exclusivity anymore. Anyone can buy a Mercedes now.”

He explained that at one time, it used to be a big deal to see a Mercedes drive down the road. But, now, with the proliferation of the lower priced models, the brand is a lot

more commonplace.

I understand my friend’s sentiment. And, when I was selling Mercedes, I did hear a number of my regular customers bemoan the fact that these new models were “watering down” the brand.

But, at the same time, the CLA, when introduced, did bring a younger buyer into the market who were genuinely excited about being able to lease or buy a Benz.

At the end of the day, though, the success of these new models will depend largely on whether or not they continue to sell and to do that the general motoring public will have to continue to see value in these cars.

My opinion is that there is enough meat on the bones, so to speak, in this A220 model to sustain itself in a crowded field.

To start with, the exterior of the car has enough style and pizzazz to attract attention.

At first glance, this looks like it could be an expensive ride.

On the inside, the fit and finish of the A220 4matic is above average, it doesn’t give off the feel of an inexpensive car. It is comfortable and stylish with a faux leather seats, panoramic roof, faux leather wrapped dash with cool looking throwback circular air vents and brushed aluminum trim.

As you drive this car, the sight lines are good, the ride is supple and a bit stiff at times, but still exciting enough to be enjoyable.

The backseat room is sufficient for three kids. The only real issue with the A220 is trunk space. It doesn’t have a great amount of cargo space inside the trunk.

However, it is adequately powered and fuel efficient. The EPA fuel ratings for the A220 are 28 miles per gallon overall – 34 miles per gallon in highway driving and 28 in city driving.

The average annual fuel costs estimated at $1,750 as it is rated as using 3.6 gallons of gas per every 100 miles.

This particular model has not been received a government crash test rating yet.

Overall, I think that the A220 can be a player in this crowded sub compact sedan space. This vehicle should appropriately be on anyone’s short list of cars to consider if they are thinking about leasing or buying a car in this class.

Peter Perrotta’s On The Road column appears weekly. Comments are welcome.

You can contact him by email at pperrotta@ comcast.net.

Obituaries

OBITUARY

Adam Steven Henschel, 66 Adam Steven Henschel, 66, of Princeton, passed away April 17, 2020.

Son of the late Leonard and Judith Henschel, he is survived by his sister, Laurel Eve Henschel.

Adam was a learned, kind and gentle soul. He was a proud American. A proud Jew. Private funeral services and burial were Wednesday, April 22 at Beth Israel Cemetery in Woodbridge, NJ. Memorial contributions may be made to Greenwood House www.greenwoodhouse.org or to Chabad of Mercer County – Princeton www.princetonchabad.org Funeral arrangements are by Orland’s Ewing Memorial Chapel.

NM-00428378

ANN BUSHNELL SCHARADIN 07-02-1920 - 03-25-2020 Ann McNair Bushnell Scharadin of Longwood, Florida and Pocono Manor passed away on March 25,2020.

Ann was born on July 2, 1920 in Marietta, Georgia to Josephing Dobbs McNair and Howard Sydner McNair.

Ann grew up in Montclair NJ and graduated first in her class from Kimberly Academy in 1937. She married Frances Martin Bushnell in 1940 and lived in Princeton NJ until 1980 when they moved to Longwood, Florida. She and her family spent summers at Pocono Manor, Pa. where she became an avid golfer and tennis player.

After the passing of her first husband, Francis, she married Nelson Scharadin who preceded her in death (1999).

Ann loved to sew and knit, making many beautiful sweaters and outfits for her children. She was a volunteer at Princeton Hospital for many years, a member and past president of The Present Day Club and a member of PEO. Ann is survived by her four children Howard, John, Francis (Imogene) Bushnell and

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Neil Cadue. Three grandchildren- Alyssa Cadue, Kendal and Jesse Bushnell.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Josephine Schutt and son-in-law, James

Packet Packet Media, Media, LLC. LLC.

Cadue.

A Memorial Service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Woodlawn Memorial Park & Funeral Home 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Rd. Gotha, Florida www.WoodlawnFuneralHomeGotha.com

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Princeton schools react to extended closure

By LEA KAHN Staff Writer

The Princeton Public School District welcomes the possibility of students returning to the bricks-and-mortar school buildings as soon as May 15, but it won’t be as simple as opening the schoolhouse doors, Superintendent of Schools Steve Cochrane said.

The public schools were slated to reopen this month, but Gov. Phil Murphy has extended the school closure to May 15, which leads to the hopes of a possible return to the school buildings before the end of the year, Cochrane said.

But if the schools were to reopen next month, it would present a “myriad logistical and health related changes (that) we would have to implement to make sure that bringing thousands of students and adults back into our schools in four weeks’ time could happen safely,” he said.

“The governor’s announcement places us in the position of needing to plan for that possible re-entry, as well as for the still more likely scenario that schools will remain closed through June or beyond,” Cochrane said.

Meanwhile, although the schools have been physically closed and remote learning has been put in place to stop the spread of COVID-19, steps have been taken to provide some opportunities for the students to recapture at least some of the experiences that make up a high school career.

So as much as they can, coaches and advisers are working with students to enable them to participate virtu-

ally in extra-curricular activities – even though the school closures have thrown a wrench into many aspects of the school experience.

On and off the athletic fields, students have been equally engaged in extra-curricular activities, said Diana Lygas, Princeton High School Dean of Students. She is coordinating remote advising for the clubs.

“Many clubs are doing good things. The yearbook staff just completed their 2020 yearbook and sent it off to the press. That was a huge undertaking to do from home, and I am super proud of them,” Lygas said.

The Tower, which is the Princeton High School newspaper, is publishing its next edition online, Lygas said. It is actively seeking new members.

The Mental Health Coalition and the Numina Gallery are working on coordinating an online art gallery, and the Stress Relief Club is meeting every Wednesday on Zoom, she said.

The Princeton High School track coaches have kept in touch with the student athletes several times a week through the Remind app, by sending updates and messages of inspiration and positivity and organizing group activities, Assistant Coach Ben Samara said.

“We are doing bi-weekly, full-team Zoom meetings, and organizing other fun activities on Zoom on off-weeks. Distance runners have been using Strava to track their runs and filter that information directly to Assistant Coach James

Smirk, who can then provide feedback,” Samara said.

The spring track coaches have been in daily, one-on-one contact with many of the athletes, Samara said. They have been fielding questions and helping with workout modifications and even directing them to helpful videos, Samara said.

“Competition is just one part of our season. We have made it clear to our athletes that even if we remain in remote learning through the rest of this year, we will continue to support them athletically and emotionally through the remainder of the spring to set them up for future success,” Samara said.

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Get outdoors to enjoy nature’s beauty!

Municipal parks and trails remain open. Please help us to keep them open by following social distancing guidelines.

CHEAPER AND CLEANER ENERGY On the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, we are delighted to launch a new program for Princeton residents that will lower our greenhouse gas emissions and save money.

Under the PCRE Program, you will pay less for the electricity you use, and the energy will contain higher renewable content.

NO CHANGE TO DELIVERY OR REPAIR SERVICE

DO I NEED TO TAKE ACTION?

The program only impacts the supply

Princeton residents currently receiving

component of the electric service.

their power from PSE&G do not need to

The delivery of the electricity—in-

take action to participate. The cheaper

cluding maintenance and repair of

rate begins on June’s utility bill.

power lines, outages, etc.—and gas

PROGRAM CHANGES? CALL 1-833-961-0753

will continue to be provided by PSE&G. Consumers will not see

• "Opt-up" to 100% renewable: Those willing to pay a

anything different in their service except a new supplier and lower rate listed on their bill.

NM-00428404

slight premium to receive 100% renewable supply must call by May 6, 2020.

• "Opt-in" to the program: If you are receiving power

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Program details and FAQs are available at princetonnj.gov or by calling 1-855-365-0770.

from another company or have solar, you will not be automatically included. Call by May 6th to opt in.

• "Opt-out" if not interested: Just call the number above at any time.

Para obtener esta información en Español por favor llame a este numero: 1-833-961-0753 1-833-961-0753.

The PCRE program is a priority strategy of the Princeton Climate Action Plan and a collaborative effort of: Princeton Environmental Commission

10A The Princeton Packet

Friday, April 24, 2020F

www.princetonpacket.com

real estate

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Donna Murray has been recognized for Listings. Licensed since 1997, Murray, CRS, ASP, e-Pro,SRS, is a recipient of NJAR Circle of Excellence Award. She is a 26-year resident of Lawrence Township.

Teams: The John Terebey Relocation Team, led by John Terebey, Jr., has been recognized for Volume and Units. Licensed since 1985, Terebey, Associate Broker, CRS, GRI, e-Pro, SFR, is the recipient of the Chairman’s Circle and NJ REALTORS® Circle of Excellence awards.

He is a longtime resident of West Windsor.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS® is part of HomeServices of America, the nation’s largest provider of total home services and largest residential brokerage company in the U.S. in sales volume, according to 2019 REAL Trends 500 report.

The company’s market dominance is three times the market share of its nearest competitor.

In 2019 the brokerage completed more than 31,457 transactions. With over 5,000 sales associates in more than 75 sales offices across the Tri-State area, the company was recently acknowledged as #1 throughout the entire Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Network, for the 5th year in a row. Through its affiliate, the Trident Group, the company provides one-stop shopping and facilitated services to its clients including mortgage financing, and title, property and casualty insurance. The company-sponsored charitable foundation, Fox & Roach/ Trident Charities, is committed to addressing the needs of children and families in stressful life circumstances and has contributed over $7.2 million to more than 250 local organizations since its inception in 1995. Visit our Website at www.foxroach.com.

real estate Model Apartments Coming Soon | Opening This Summer Visit 107 Main Street | Princeton Forrestal Village

To advertise, contact Tracey Lucas 732.358.5200 Ext. 8319 tlucas@newspapermediagroup.com

0Friday, April 24, 2020

The Princeton Packet 11A

www.princetonpacket.com

at your service

to advertise, call 609.924.3250 | Monday thru Friday 8:30am-5:00pm • SHOWCASED •

Want Customers to Call You? Advertise on this Page.

CIFELLI ELECTRICAL INC. Residential & Commercial | ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Authorized dealer for sales, installation and startup Renovations • Service Panel Upgrades • Paddle Fans • Interior & Exterior Lighting

NM-00428525

Call 609-924-3250

Want Customers to Call You? Advertise on this Page.

609-921-3238 • www.cifellielectrical.com

Call 609-924-3250

Lic #11509A, Bonded and Insured Serving Princeton and surrounding areas

Painting

Painting

Painting House Painting Interior

Exterior - Stain & Varnish

(Benjamin Moore Green promise products)

Plaster and Drywall Repairs WallPaper Installations and Removal Carpentry Power Wash, Residential,

Sidewalk, Decks, Gutters & Mildew Problems

Attics, Basements, Garage and House Cleaning

Hector Davila

RELEASE DATE—Sunday, April 19, 2020

609-227-8928

Los Angeles Times Sunday Crossword Puzzle

www.HDHousePainting.com

ContractorsEdited

Home Repairs

by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis Electrical Services

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Gasko’s Family Farm 112 Federal Rd., Monroe, NJ

Help Wanted Full or Part Time

NM-00428353

(732) 446-9205

Southwestern natives around the Virgin River

Los Angeles Times Sunday Crossword Puzzle 4/26/20

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Want Customers to Call You? Advertise on this Page.

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Š2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Editedxwordeditor@aol.com

by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols ANSWER TOLewis TODAY’S PUZZLE

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12A The Princeton Packet

Friday, April 24, 2020

www.princetonpacket.com

Princeton family enjoys game of paddle ball

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEA KAHN/STAFF

Taking advantage of a warm afternoon, the Sacchi family set up a paddle ball net in the middle of Greenview Avenue in Princeton and swatted the ball back and forth.

Friends of Princeton Open Space, Garden Club of Princeton plan to continue efforts Friends of Princeton Open Space (FOPOS) has been awarded a $9,500 grant from the Growing Fund of the New Jersey Committee of the Garden Club of America (GCA).

The grant was sponsored by The Garden Club of Princeton (GCP), and will be used to fund the purchase and installation of native trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants for FOPOS’ 18-acre forest restoration project at the Billy Johnson Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve, according to a statement provided by FOPOS. The project will transform this area from a mass of invasive species with an overstory consisting mostly of doomed ash trees, to a healthy native forest that will provide high-quality habitat for birds and animals, an enhanced experience for park users, and opportunities for educational programming.

The New Jersey Committee, which unanimously supported the grant, is comprised of all 12 GCA member clubs in New Jersey.

“Protecting, restoring and improving the environment is part of our core mission,” said GCP President Robin Gosnell in the statement. “In recent years, the national and local garden clubs have increasingly recognized the importance of controlling invasive species and planting native species to further that mission. FOPOS’ forest restoration project is

a perfect fit with these objectives. We were very happy to be able to support it by sponsoring this grant proposal.”

GCP member Wendy Mager is the president of FOPOS, and said her conservation orientation is one of the reasons she joined GCP. “Many people may not realize it, but the GCA clubs are quite a force for conservation.

Shortly after joining the GCP, I attended the National and Legislative Affairs conference of GCA in Washington, D.C., and helped lobby our legislative delegation to support measures to protect and enhance the natural environment. I truly appreciate the fact that my fellow GCP members saw the merit of the forest restoration project and supported this grant application, and of course FOPOS is very grateful to the New Jersey Committee,” Mager said in the statement.

FOPOS received a $50,000 matching grant from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Green Acres Stewardship Program in fall of 2017. The initial stages of the project involved building a deer exclosure fence around 8.5 of the 18 acres and clearing masses of invasive photinia, Japanese honeysuckle, multiflora rose, Japanese

stilt grass and other non-native species from the site, according to the statement. The invasive plants do not support native birds and wildlife, and also choke out native wildflowers and tree seedlings.

The Growing Fund grant to FOPOS will supplement the funds received from Green Acres toward purchasing and planting 7,400 native trees, shrubs and herbaceous perennials. Planting began in the spring of this year with volunteers from many different groups, but quickly had to be limited to sessions of 10 or fewer because of restrictions imposed to fight the COVID-19 epidemic. Large events including a Princeton Community Planting Day supported by the municipality had to be cancelled. Eventually, the workers were limited to FOPOS’ Natural Resources Manager, Anna Corichi, and a part-time former summer intern who is home from college, according to the statement.

Nevertheless, 2,000 plants – mostly bareroot trees and shrubs – have already been installed. Among the 2,000 new plants already installed are red chokeberry and hackberry; sweet birch, ironwood and five species of hickory trees; persimmon, flowering dogwood, spicebush, bladdernut and witch ha-

D o i o t o a r P

zel; wild hydrangea, maple leaf viburnum, pinxter azalea and flowering St. John’s wort; sweetgum, black gum, hornbeam, pawpaw, ninebark, three kinds of oak trees and basswood.

FOPOS plans to move to the next stage of installing 400 larger, containerized plants this month.

“My fellow GCP members had signed up to help plant in March and April. Of course, it’s disappointing that these events had to be cancelled, but I know they will step up to help get the 5,000 herbaceous perennials in the ground next spring,” Mager said in the statement.

Founded in 1969, FOPOS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to acquiring open space in Princeton for preservation, protecting natural resources, maintaining accessibility to trails and providing environmental education. As part of their mission, they work with groups in the Princeton region to support efforts to preserve and protect open space and the environment. For more information, visit fopos.org. For those interested in volunteer opportunities, email info@fopos. org.

d ow n i W

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FOR 1 YEAR1 Not to be combined with any other offer. Minimum total purchase of 4 or more windows and/or patio doors. Financing provided by unaffiliated third parties and is subject to credit requirements. Interest is billed during the promotional period but all interest is waived if the purchase amount is paid before the expiration of the promotional period.

· For peace of mind, we are now offering virtual appointments to make your home stronger from the comfort of your own home · Our patio doors will continue to slide smoothly for years using Andersen’s dual ball-bearing engineering

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Cannot be combined with prior purchases, other offers, or coupons. Offer not available in all areas. 40% discount applied by retailer representative at time of contract execution and applies to minimum total purchase of 4 or more windows and/or patio doors.

Discount applied to lowest priced window and/or door products in purchase. No payments and deferred interest for 12 months available, subject to qualifying credit approval. Not all customers may qualify. Higher rates apply for customer with lower credit ratings.

Interest is billed during the promotional period but all interest is waived if the purchase amount is paid before the expiration of the promotional period. Financing for GreenSky® consumer loan programs is provided by federally insured, federal and state chartered financial institutions without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender or familial status. Financing not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Renewal by Andersen retailers are independently owned and operated retailers, and are neither brokers nor lenders. All financing is provided by third-party lenders unaffiliated with Renewal by Andersen retailers, under terms and conditions arranged directly between the customer and such lender, which are subject to credit requirements. Renewal by Andersen retailers do not assist with, counsel or negotiate financing, other than providing customers an introduction to lenders interested in financing. Savings comparison is based on the purchase of a single unit at regular list price. See your local Renewal by Andersen location for details. NJ Consumer Affairs License #: 13VH01541700. NYC Consumer Affairs License #: 1244514. Nassau Consumer Affairs License #: H0810150000. Suffolk Consumer Affairs License #: 43991-H. NYC 1307704. Rockland County License #: H-11942-07-00-00. Renewal by Andersen of Central/Northern NJ and Long Island are independently owned and operated affiliates operating in the NJ/NY metropolitan area. “ENERGY STAR” is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. “Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are marks of Andersen Corporation. ©2020 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. ©2020 Lead Surge LLC. All rights reserved.

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