Town Topics Newspaper, November 27, 2024.

James “Jimmy” Mack Honored for Impact On Local Community

Princeton Council paid tribute to longtime barber James “Jimmy” Mack at its meeting Monday evening, November 25, at the municipal building.

PU

Ivy

As a large crowd of Mack’s family, friends, and neighbors looked on, Councilman Leighton Newlin and Mayor Mark Freda read a special proclamation honoring Mack as a xture in the Witherspoon-Jackson neighborhood since the early 1950s.

Newlin called Mack “a great human, a great humanitarian, a good person, a great family man, a good friend, a mentor, and one hell of a barber.” To visit Jimmy’s Barber Shop at 141 John Street was to be part of “a sanctuary of community where the air vibrated with the hum of clippers, laughter, and soulful melodies, creating a vibrant tapestry of shared experience,” he said, before launching into a brief rendition of the Martha and the Vandellas song “Jimmy Mack.”

The atmosphere at the shop was “a dive into rich conversations about life, sports, politics, and culture, with Jimmy as both the stylist and the storyteller,” Newlin continued.

Born in Roanoke, Va., In 1931, Mack served as a machine gun operator on the U.S.S. Midway during the Korean War. It was during that service that he saw a notice advertising for a barber on board. He trained for the job and became one of 10 on the ship, “skillfully cutting hair while fostering camaraderie among sailors,” Newlin said.

Upon completing his service in 1952, Mack moved to Princeton, where he had several relatives. He worked at Nat’s Sanitary Barber on Witherspoon Street before opening his own shop in 1962, cutting hair until his retirement in 2014.

“Jimmy dedicated his life to serving the Princeton community, including generations of students from Princeton University, creating a legacy that continues to inspire,” the proclamation reads. Mack has been “a pillar of grace and support, nurturing not only his own family but also the larger community as a member and role model.”

The proclamation called Mack “the last African American business owner in a historically rich neighborhood once lled with family-run enterprises.”

PPS Offers Forums, Tours as Referendum Nears

Princeton residents will have a number of opportunities to learn more about the Princeton Public Schools’ (PPS) $89.1 million facilities bond referendum before they vote on a three-part question on January 28, 2025.

Two upcoming forums — a virtual forum on Monday, December 9 at 7 p.m. (link to be shared shortly before the event) and an in-person forum on Saturday, January 11 at 9 a.m. in the Princeton Middle School (PMS) auditorium — will provide information and chances to ask questions.

The community is also invited to tour one or all of the school buildings included in the 2025 bond referendum proposal: Community Park Elementary School on December 10 and January 8 at 3:30 p.m.; Littlebrook Elementary School on January 7 and 14 at 4 p.m.; PMS on December 5, 12, and January 16 at 3:30 p.m.; and Princeton High School (PHS) on

December 8 at 10 a.m., 13 at 6:30 p.m., January 15 at 6:15 p.m., January 24 at 5:30 p.m., and January 26 at 10 a.m.

“We are really excited about the referendum, PPS Board of Education President Dafna Kendal wrote in a November 26 email. “We believe that it is a very costeffective way to add classroom spaces to our buildings to ensure that we are able to continue the high level of teaching and learning that is the hallmark of the Princeton Public Schools.”

She continued, “We also understand that the tax impact of all three questions might be too big a lift for the community, so we’ve prioritized the questions in order of our most critical needs. We will have many opportunities for engagement over the next two months, and we’re excited to share our plans to address student enrollment growth in our schools with the community.”

In a November 21 email to the

Mack and his wife, Audrey, were given

community, PPS Interim Superintendent Kathie Foster noted that the public schools “need immediate expansion and improvements to continue providing students with high-quality programming, maintain elementary class sizes, and honor our neighborhood schools” as they accommodate students from more than 1,000 new residential units in the next few years.

Foster went on to emphasize that the referendum prioritizes “cost-effective, valuebased” improvements. “As with all that we do, students — and their families — are the driving force behind the facilities bond referendum,” she wrote. “We put extensive care and thought into creating a nancially responsible plan that would continue the exceptional education and student experiences at Princeton Public Schools.”

The three questions on the January 28 ballot will be: Question 1, Community Park expansion and renovations and

Panel of Experts Will Discuss 2024 Election at Princeton University Forum

As the country and the world continue to ponder the results of the 2024 election, Princeton University’s School for Public and International Affairs (SPIA) Center for the Study of Democratic Politics (CSDP) has assembled a panel of experts to help shed light on “What Happened and Why?” The event will take place on Monday, December 2, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. in Bowl 016 at Robertson Hall on Washington Road.

“This panel will bring together a blend of expertise, perspectives, and professional experiences that we hope will foster a nuanced, informed discussion of the election results,” said Princeton University Politics Professor and CSDP Co-Director Tali Mendelberg, who will moderate the discussion. “In this era of polarization and information silos, it is vital to offer accurate analysis and to represent diverse views about the state of American politics.”

Panelists will include Betsy Ankney, political strategist and Nikki Haley’s campaign manager; CBS News elections analyst and Princeton University Ph.D. graduate Kabir Khanna; Dorian Warren, public affairs commentator and president of Community Change, co-chair of the Economic Security Project, and cohost of System Check; and Lauren Wright, associate research scholar and lecturer in

Continued on Page 13

by Sarah Teo)

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Topics

Leighton Listens: Councilman Leighton Newlin holds one-on-one conversations about issues impacting Princeton from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 27 at Maman Princeton, 43 Hulfish Street.

Holiday Gift Drive : In the lobby at Princeton Airport from November 29-December 18, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., deposit unwrapped gifts for distribution by Mercer County Board of Social Services. PrincetonAirport.com.

Winter Clothing Drive : Through December 31, donations of gently used coats, jackets, scarves, gloves, and other winter wear are being accepted for needy families at The Jewish Center, 435 Nassau Street. Collection bins are in the lobby TuesdaysThursdays 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fridays 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; and Sundays 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Food Pantry : Arm In Arm’s mobile food pantry is at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch of Mercer County Library System, 2751 Brunswick Pike, on Monday afternoons from 2-4 p.m. Fresh produce, eggs, milk, frozen proteins, and quality baked goods as well as canned and boxed items and personal care items are available for those in need.

Volunteer Land Stewards Wanted : In December, Friends of Princeton Open Space (FOPOS) is holding morning and afternoon stewardship sessions. Volunteers will work under the guidance of the FOPOS stewardship staff at the Billy Johnson Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve in Princeton to help restore riparian and forest areas, remove invasive plants, and plant native trees and shrubs. Dates, start times, and registration at fopos.org/events-programs.

Sustainable Princeton “Lending Library”: Sustainable Princeton offers residents and nonprofits in Princeton the opportunity to borrow sustainable home items such as electric landscape equipment, induction cooktops, and repair tools, for free, for up to two weeks. Visit sustainableprinceton.org for more information.

Millhill Holiday Giving Drive : Millhill Child and Family Development is collecting gifts and warm coats through November 29. In-person donations will be accepted through December 6. Contact Angie at AMcManimon@millhillcenter.org for details.

Free Salt Room Sessions for Breast Cancer Survivors : 4 Elements Wellness Center in Princeton Shopping Center offers free halotherapy sessions to anyone who has survived or is still battling the disease. The 50-minute sessions cleanse the respiratory system, reduce inflammation, and provide stress relief. 4elementswellnesscenter. com.

Donate Blood : The American Red Cross needs blood and platelet donors, especially type O blood, as the holiday season approaches. In Princeton, donations can be made at Frist Campus Center on the Princeton University campus, or Stone Hill Church on Bunn Drive. Additional opportunities in Trenton, Plainsboro, Pennington, Hopewell, Hamilton, and Ewing townships are available. Visit RedCrossBlood.org for dates and times.

ALL THINGS ITALIAN: Dorothea’s House recently celebrated its Polenta Festival, an appreciation of the humble cornmeal dish beloved in Italy. The next program is December 1 from 5-7 p.m., when Alison Scola will give inside travel tips on visiting Sicily. Admission is free. Dorothea’s House is at 120 John Street.

(Photo by George Menendez)

Princeton-raised Dan Schulman was knighted in

last

Princeton High School Graduate Dan Schulman Knighted by French President at Ceremony in Paris

During his tenure as CEO and president of the financial technology giant PayPal, Dan Schulman was shocked

to discover that 70 percent of Americans have a hard time making ends meet. Schulman, who was raised in Princeton and is a product of the town’s public schools, was even more surprised to learn that over half of his employees — who were paid above market rates — were among those struggling.

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It was that realization, and what he did about it, that led to Schulman being honored as a Knight of the Legion of Honor by French President Emmanuel Macron at a ceremony in Paris last month. In front of some 75 officials, family members, and friends, Schulman, who is 66, received the accolade at a ceremony at the Élysée Palace.

“The ceremony is quite striking,” Schulman said during a phone interview last week. “President Macron spoke for about 15 minutes. It was quite beautiful, mostly about the power of leadership and what business leadership can be in trying to drive positive change.”

What Schulman did to help his employees was raise salaries, slash health care benefit costs, and give them restricted stock so they could have ownership in the company. He also reached outside PayPal to create positive change.

He formed “a set of values where we respect everybody,” Schulman said. “We weren’t trying to be red or blue, but be red, white, and blue. We decided this idea of embracing inclusion would guide our values. That’s where we put $500 million to reduce the racial wealth gap, and $100 million to help empower women and girls around the world.”

In 2016, after North Carolina passed the bathroom bill banning school kids from using bathrooms for genders different from their birth certificates, Schulman withdrew plans to establish an operation center in the

state. He began to get death threats.

Social responsibility is nothing new to Schulman, who was raised in a family of activists. “I was born in Newark. Before moving to Princeton, we lived in New Brunswick, in a fully integrated neighborhood,” he said. “My mother pushed me in a baby carriage at Martin Luther King walks in Washington. My dad always said I was the youngest kid to have a picture in an FBI file.”

art by Sean Carney

HIGHEST HONOR:

Paris

month by French President Emmanuel Macron for his contributions to social and economic change. From left are Schulman’s wife, Summerly Schulman; his mother, Ruth Schulman; Macron; and Schulman.

(Photo courtesy of Dan Schulman)

Holiday Happenings

Schulman’s grandfather was a union organizer who “got beat up,” he said. “I just kind of grew up with that sensibility. I think just standing up for things was always a part of what we did in our family — not in a heroic way; I don’t want to over-emphasize it — just trying to do the right thing within a context of cultures.”

Schulman also credits his youth in Princeton with shaping his views.

“It’s where I sort of defined myself,” he said. “It’s where I started understanding a little bit about what it meant to be a leader. I was captain of several sports teams at Princeton High School, and was quarterback of the football team. These are positions of leadership. They shape you, subtly, as a kid. You never know what they will lead up to. One thing leads to another. As you look back, you can see some of those linkages. Clearly, sports and my time at Princeton High, where I was also Homecoming King, were formative times. I don’t know if they shaped what came ahead, but they were clearly defining in my growing up.”

Before PayPal, from which Schulman retired a year ago, he served in major leadership roles at AT&T, American Express, and Priceline. He helped launch Virgin Mobile with Sir Richard Branson shortly after the September 11 terrorist attacks. He continues to serve on several boards including Lazard, Verizon, and the Cleveland Clinic.

A forum for the expression of opinions about local and national issues.

Question of the Week:

“What are you thankful for?”

(Asked in honor of Thanksgiving) (Photos by Sarah Teo)

“I’m thankful for God and my family, and for what they provide for me. I’m also thankful for my heath, and opportunities I’ve been having with basketball and the chance I had to train with and learn from my brother, who’s an athletic trainer, last summer.”

“I think the private sector plays a really important role,” he said. “That’s been my driving philosophy since I started working with Branson. That’s probably what President Macron saw when he decided to knight me into the French Legion of Honor.”

The ceremony in Paris last month was followed by a dinner given by Lazard. Among those attending all of the festivities was his mother, Princeton resident Ruth Schulman, who is 90 years old but was determined not to miss a minute. Until her retirement, she was the associate dean of Rutgers’ Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology

“She is a warrior,” Schulman said. “She’s battling various things. I told her, ‘Mom, this is happening in Paris. It’s very cool, but I know you can’t be there.’ She said, ‘Of course I’m going to be there!’ It wasn’t even a question. That was it. I love her.”

Lori: “I’m grateful that my family is in good health, and for my family in general, and that Trump got elected as well.”

— John and Lori

Greenwich, Conn.

—Anne Levin

— O’Rien Campbell, Jackson

Emily: “I’m thankful for meeting Will, my supportive family, and for being able to go to school and have an education.” Will: “We actually just met the other day, so I’m thankful for meeting her. This is our first date. And for music, movies, and supportive family.” — Emily Price, Rockaway, with Will Joniaux, Marlboro

Paola: “I think my family, and God, because he’s always there with us.”

— Paola Camero, Venezuela, with Rey

John: “Number one, I’m thankful that Donald Trump was elected; number two, my wife; and number three, my two awesome kids.”

Price,

PHS end-of-life HVAC replacement and upgrades at a cost of $37.9M with an estimated annual tax impact of $222, based on an average assessed home value of $853,136; Question 2, which cannot pass unless Question 1 passes, PMS expansion and renovations and PHS renovations, at a cost of $38.3M, with an estimated annual tax impact for Questions 1 and 2 of $447; and Question 3, which cannot pass unless questions 1 and 2 are approved, Littlebrook expansion and renovations, at a cost of $12.9M with an annual tax impact of $532 for all three questions.

If all three questions pass, debt service aid from the state is estimated at $19.9M ($11.4M if only Question 1 passes, $18.5M if 1 and 2 pass).

If the referendum does not pass, likely results will be redistricting happening sooner, class sizes growing with some programming shifts due to lack of classroom space, and changes in “the neighborhood school feel that currently characterizes the elementary schools,” according to the PPS website.

To learn more about the January 28 facilities bond referendum, visit princetonk12.org/future. To sign up for one or more of the building tours, visit princetonk12.org/buildingtours.

—Donald Gilpin

Tell them you saw their ad in

James “Jimmy” Mack (Photo by Adam Welch)

a standing ovation at the conclusion of the presentation. Also at the meeting, Council introduced two ordinances. One is about outdoor dining areas on sidewalks, and the other has to do with salaries of municipal employees. The public hearings for both are scheduled for the next public Council meeting on Monday, December 9 at 7 p.m. Visit princetonnj.gov for details.

—Anne Levin

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Social Services Agencies

At Local Site This

Month

Arm In Arm’s mobile food pantry will be at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch of the Mercer County Library System, 2751 Brunswick Avenue, on Monday, December 2, 9, 16 and 23 from 2-4 p.m. Several other social service agencies will also be on hand at the library throughout the month.

Arm In Arm has been active in Mercer County for four decades, providing essential resources like food and financial support. Healthy food such as fresh produce, eggs and milk, frozen proteins, quality baked goods, and shelf-stable canned and boxed items as well as personal care products such as shampoo, soap, and diapers are made available to families in need.

The nonprofit welcomes 4,000-5,000 families annually through more than 40,000 visits to its food and mobile pantries, and works with 200-400 at-risk families to prevent or end homelessness.

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“It is so important that we bring services into our communities to meet our residents where they are,” said Mercer County Executive Dan Benson. “The collaboration between the Mercer County Library System and Arm In Arm is a great example of how we can collaborate to deliver help to those who need it most.”

In conjunction with Arm In Arm, other social service agencies will be on site. On December 2, the Lawrence Township Health Department and the Mercer County Board of Social Services will have informational

p.m. No registration is required.

tables. On December 9, the Mercer County Division of Public Health will have a COVID-19 and Flu Vaccine Clinic at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch.

The Central Jersey Legal Services and the Mercer County Board of Social Services will also have informational tables on December 9. On December 16, the New Jersey Division of Civil Rights, the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey and the Mercer County Board of Social Services will have informational tables. On December 23, the Lawrence Township Health Department will have an informational table.

All visiting services will take place from 2-4 p.m. at the same time and place as the mobile food pantry. Arm In Arm relies on volunteers to get food into the hands of those who need it most. To get involved, contact Shariq Marshall at (609) 508-7851 or shariqm@arminarm.org. No registration is required.

Arm In Arm staff will register participants upon arrival. For more information about the food pantry, visit arminarm.org.

JaZams Wins Award For Best U.S. Toy Store

JaZams, the Palmer Square toy store, has been recognized by the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (AStRA), which represents independent toy retailers in the U.S., with the 2024 Excellence Award for Best Toy Store in the United States.

According to the award, jaZams, which also has a store in Peddler’s Village, Bucks County, Pa., “radiates joy, excellence, and community connections. As a result, jaZams has been delighting tens of thousands of customers for nearly three decades,” according to a press release.

Longtime Princeton residents Joanne Farrugia and Dean Smith, partners in the business as well as in life,

received the award at a gala this summer in St. Louis, Mo. The event’s emcee noted that passion and partnership are the attributes that prompted the jaZams honor.

“The passion for their store, their staff, and the community they serve shines through in every aspect of their business,” the emcee said. “One of their most striking features is the meticulous curation of their inventory. Their stores are beautifully merchandised and boast an impressive array of toys, games, and books sourced from near and far, offering their customers the best and newest products available.”

The owners were praised for treating staff like family, partnering with customers about their needs, and with such local nonprofits as the Arts Council of Princeton, Princeton Public Library, Princeton Public Schools, and McCarter Theatre. Visit jaZams.com for more information.

By Charles Dickens

Adapted and Directed by Lauren Keating

Pictured: 2023 A Christmas Carol Cast.

Photo by T. Charles Erickson.

FIGHTING FOOD INSECURITY: Arm In Arm’s mobile food pantry will be at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch of the Mercer County Library System on Monday, December 2, 9, 16, and 23 from 2-4

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Chanticleer’s Eclectic Repertory Ranges

From Renaissance-era Music to Spirituals

The last time Chanticleer came to Princeton, the Grammy Award-winning a cappella vocal ensemble performed at Richardson Auditorium. Leading them that day in October 2023 was Tim Keeler, a 2011 graduate of Princeton University, where he majored in music.

Keeler is Chanticleer’s music director. He is bringing the group back to Princeton, again under the auspices of Princeton University Concerts (PUC), on Saturday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m. — this time in another campus venue. “A Chanticleer Christmas” will be held in Princeton University Chapel.

Keeler is familiar with the acoustics of both venues

from his participation in the University’s glee club, chamber choir, and a cappella groups during his undergraduate years.

“They are both so special,” he said. “But getting to sing in the chapel is really cool. We are really looking forward to it.”

Founded in 1978 as an early music ensemble, Chanticleer (named for the “clearsinging rooster in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales ) expanded its repertoire over the years to include classical, gospel, jazz, and popular music. The Christmas concert is a program of a cappella choral music ranging from Renaissance-era pieces to spirituals, reflecting the group’s commitment to diversity.

“It’s really what makes the job fun for me,” Keller said. “We get to sing lots of different genres. And that brings in so many different kinds of people. It’s not just the early music nerds who come to our concerts. It’s people who embrace other styles, too. So we get to sing such a variety.”

The holiday concert will follow a “Do-Re-Meet LGBTQIA+ & Allies Mingle” at Maclean House on the campus, designed to introduce fellow music fans through ice-breaker games and an ugly sweater contest. The pre-concert gathering is part of PUC’s series of social events connected to performances.

Keeler is looking forward

to returning to campus. “I loved my time at Princeton,” he said. “Gabriel Crouch [director of choral activities] is one of my closest friends and mentors. He really helps me on my path, so it’s always great to see him.”

Following graduation from Princeton, Keeler earned a master’s degree from the University of Cambridge in music and science, specifically in computer programming machine learning as it is applied to music analysis.

“I loved singing, but I never thought I’d pursue it as a career,” he said. “But it turns out I really missed the connections you make with people in choral music. Singing with people and making friends, creating things as a group — that’s what I missed.”

Keeler went on to earn a degree in choral conducting from the University of Michigan. Along the way, he realized that he had a falsetto, counter-tenor voice that he hadn’t used in the past. And that type of voice was in demand. For the next three years, he freelanced in New York as a counter-tenor.

“Then, I got a call from Chanticleer asking me to sing with them,” he said.

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“I did it for a year, touring around the world and having so much fun and doing beautiful music-making. Then, I went back to school to get my doctorate at the University of Maryland. Just as the pandemic was starting, Chanticleer asked me to audition for the role of music director.”

After a few rounds of auditions, Keeler got the job. While his job entails helping in rehearsals and choosing the repertoire, it does not include conducting. “It’s 12 people, unconducted,” he said.

The Chanticleer sound is unique. “A lot of what makes it so appealing is how physical singing is,” Keeler said. “Everybody in the audience has the same instrument. It’s not like an orchestra. You have a voice, you have the same apparatus. There is something really physical about that connection. It’s sympathetic. You can really feel it. Also, musically, there are things you can do with the voice that you can’t do with instruments. Every piece has an explicit story to tell. So as an audience member, it is so great to come along for the ride and be included in that experience.”

For more information on “A Chanticleer Christmas,” visit puc.princeton.edu or call (609) 258-9220.

—Anne Levin

Drumthwacket to Open

For Holiday House Tours

Gov. Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy are inviting all New Jersey residents to attend The Holidays at Drumthwacket. This year, the Drumthwacket Foundation, in partnership with seven garden clubs from across the state, has decorated each room using fresh arrangements and greenery to complement the architecture and decor of the historical property.

“It is our joy and privilege to welcome thousands of New Jerseyans to Drumthwacket all year, and especially during the holiday season. This beautiful property, appropriately known as the People’s House, is a historical and cultural treasure that becomes even more remarkable at this time of year. I am incredibly grateful for the festive decorations created by seven garden clubs across our state in partnership with the Drumthwacket Foundation,” said Tammy Murphy. “Over the coming month, I look forward to welcoming many New Jersey families to visit and enjoy the holidays with us here at Drumthwacket.”

The tours are self-guided, but there will be several docents to answer questions and provide historical information about the property. Drumthwacket will be open on December 4-7 and 11.

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Mon-Fri 10-6; Sat 10-5; Sun 12-5

Displays are on the first floor and include the entrance gate, decorated by the Warren Garden Club; front door, foyer, and solarium, by the Garden Club of Metuchen; dining room by the Keyport Garden Club; parlor by the Mountain Lakes Garden Club; music room by the Allentown Garden Club; library by the West Trenton Garden Club; and governor’s study by the Belvidere Garden Club.

Reservations are required; admission and onsite parking are free. Visit Drumthwacket.org.

TWELVE VOICES UNCONDUCTED: The a cappella group Chanticleer brings “A Chanticleer Christmas” to Princeton University Chapel on Saturday, December 7.

Institute for Advanced Study Online Videos Offer Brief Looks Behind the Scenes

The Institute for Advanced Study (IAS) is one of the world’s great institutions for theoretical research, intellectual exploration, and academic alliances. It is famed as the former home base of Albert Einstein, J. Robert Oppenheimer, and many other celebrity scholars — but it remains somewhat of a mystery to many locals.

The aura of mystery is possibly due to its relative isolation, ensconced on about 600 acres on the southwestern edge of Princeton, and to the esoteric and complex nature of much of the work that is done there in the loftiest realms of science, mathematics, history, and social sciences.

A current posting, titled “Institute Instances,” on the Institute website at ias.edu will help to dispel some of the mystery. Through one to two-minute video snapshots of individuals who talk about their experiences at IAS, “Instances” provides a variegated picture of some of the work and other activity that goes on at the IAS.

There are 16 of these snapshots posted so far, more in the works, and all are interesting and accessible without requiring that the viewer possess any advanced degrees. It’s an unusual opportunity to learn about what goes on at this renowned institution.

Presented are individuals who are “pushing beyond the present limits of human knowledge,” in the words of IAS Founding Director Abraham Flexner. The IAS website notes that these “instances” of Institute life are “designed to show how everyone can play a role in actualizing discovery, and to celebrate a community devoted to excellence in scholarship.”

Subtitled “Profiles in Discovery,” the posting is all about people who are making discoveries in their work, and it also offers the outside viewer a rich array of discoveries about these unusual individuals.

The snapshots include leading scholars — scientists, mathematicians, historians, and social scientists; a librarian; a biographer, a composer, an archivist who worked with Christopher Nolan and the Oppenheimer movie crew, academic assistants, and a dining room manager.

Derek Bermel, composer, clarinetist, and IAS artistin-residence (2009-2013), describes his conversations with IAS Mathematics Faculty Member Helmut Hofer, which inspired Bermel to write a symphony about symplectic geometry.

“I think I would want to jam with Einstein because he was a violinist and loved music, and I think he certainly understood the power of music and understood the anatomy of it and the way it related to his work,” Bermel says in the video. He goes on to relate how Hofer wanted a piece that involved his field of symplectic geometry, and during a conversation at lunch he mentioned the concept of deterministic chaos.

“So that was the genesis of the symplectic piece,”

Berman explained. ”What I tried to do was to take some of his ideas and musicalize them, put them into sound form. Also take some of the deterministic chaos and put that into a structure for inviting musicians into thinking about how to create a piece on their own.”

He continued, “What I gained from being here so much was not only more insight into the historical and sociological, but a meeting with the scientific and mathematical. How all those things fit together is somehow at the root of what is so special about the Institute.”

Other Institute “instances” are equally compelling. Emma Moore, the mathematics and natural sciences librarian at IAS who tells of her “work with the archivist to surface the untold stories of the Institute,” relates the history of the library from the early days of the IAS through the tenure of the first permanent librarian, Judith Sachs (1944-64).

“Sitting in the office, I like imagining that I’m sitting and watching the 1950s and ’60s go by,” Moore says. “I’d like to tell her that what she built has lasted and that I’m part of her legacy at the library.”

Lia Medeiros, a visitor in the IAS School of Natural Sciences, describes her “fruitful and happy time at IAS” with some “pretty exciting scientific results that I’m proud of,” as she created an algorithm to produce new images of the black hole at the center of our galaxy that can be used to test Einstein’s theory of gravity.

In her two-minute video snapshot, Historical Studies School Member Sarah DavisSecord focuses on how her understanding of transregional histories and connections has evolved through interactions with colleagues from different fields. “It’s not just a process of me producing my own work, but learning from my fellow Members and learning in the daily conversations over tea or lunch,” she says.

Other Institute individuals who appear for one to two-minute video snapshots include Lehigh University Associate Professor Maria Barbara Zepeda Cortes, who is working on a biography of an 18th century Spanish statesman; Princeton University Assistant

Computer Science Professor Pravesh Kothari, who describes interacting with IAS “celebrities” and making connections between pure mathematics and computer science; IAS Archivist Caitlin Rizzo, who supplied research and stories about the history of IAS to help the visiting Oppenheimer movie-makers; and Social Science Research Associate Marc Aidinoff and Astrophysicist Digvijay Wadekar, who both comment on the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration at IAS.

Geoff Mann, political economist and political theorist, focuses on the “extraordinary amount of uncertainties” in trying to understand how the world and its climate work, and he finds IAS a place where uncertainties are welcomed. “There’s a real chance here to take a leap,” he says. “This is a really special place to be.”

Other snapshot interviews feature Renee Robinson, the IAS catering supervisor and dining room manager, who describes how the many different food-related gatherings at the Institute create community and collaborations; Academic Assistant Suparna Mahableshwarkar, who tells about the variety of lectures and events she has attended while working at IAS; Historian Priyamvada Gopal, who talks about “how other peoples’ work can inspire” and “you find synergies,” as she notes how hearing a talk at IAS about Franz Schubert inspired her own research on decolonization; mathematician Sean Howe, who has learned about a new branch of mathematics on the playground, where he talked with other parents as their young children played together; astrophysicist Sihao Cheng, who is searching to discover a distant ninth planet in our solar system; and Jenna Kelly, academic assistant in the Social Science School, who emphasizes the she has found new ideas, academic engagement, and deep friendships at IAS.

More information and a direct look at these video snapshots are available at ias.edu.

—Donald

Gilpin

Rogers is Keynote Speaker At TESU University Day

Thomas Edison State University (TESU) invites students, staff, alumni, and the broader community to mark University Day on Wednesday, December 4 at 1 p.m. The annual event commemorates TESU’s attainment of university status in 2015, and its commitment to fostering dialogue, expanding perspectives, and cultivating critical thinkers at the intersection of society and higher education.

As the university reflects on its journey since achieving university status, it continues to prioritize innovation as a guiding principle. This year, TESU will welcome Rhianna Rogers, Ph.D., as the featured speaker. Rogers is an independent researcher and former director of the RAND Center to Advance Racial Equality Policy. With extensive experience in creating inclusive spaces, she will offer insight into how educators can build inclusive learning environments that spark creativity and foster holistic student development.

In her keynote presentation titled “The Transformative Possibilities of Technology in Higher Education: Case Studies from an Interdisciplinary Career Journey,” Rogers will delve into her career journey, highlighting how technology can be a driving force for both innovations and inequities. By emphasizing her prior work in the digital equity (e.g., AI/ machine learning, public policy, education, and broader technological equity) Rogers will discuss how interdisciplinarity in the tech-space has shaped her career trajectory and how it can be effectively harnessed in higher education. Through case studies from her work, audience members will explore opportunities the pros and cons of digital equity projects as well as explore ways to leverage technology in federal service.

Hip-Hop Legend

At Old York Cellars

Hip-Hop icon Darryl “DMC” McDaniels is coming to Old York Cellars in Ringoes on Saturday, November 30 from 1 to 4 p.m. to the launch his new 2022 King DMC Reserve Wine Collection. McDaniels will take part in a Meet & Greet as part of the event.

These new wines mark the third vintage in the successful partnership between Old York Cellars and McDaniels, a founding member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame group Run-DMC. Since 2020, this collaboration has produced wines and gifts under the Darryl Mack Cellars label.

“Darryl views wine and food as part of his bigger vision of bringing people together,” said David Wolin, owner of Old York Cellars.

“Old York Cellars shares his passion for bringing wine to a wide range of people.”

The 2022 King DMC Re serve Collection features the KING DMC Reserve Red, a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah with soft tannins and a full-bodied structure; and the KING DMC Reserve White, a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Vidal Blanc which has hits of stone and tropical fruits with a clean finish.

Fitness Expert Roselle To Speak at Stuart Stuart Country Day School will present Courtney Roselle — fitness trainer, motivational speaker, and “Titan of the East” from NBC’s The Titan Games with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson — as the next guest in the Cor Cordis Speaker Series on Thursday, December 12 at 4:15 p.m. The event is open to the public, for adults only.

A portion of all sales benefits the Felix Organization, a nonprofit founded by McDaniels and casting director Sheila Jaffe in 2006. The organization creates inspiring experiences and opportunities for children growing up in the foster care system.

“The heart of this collection came from Darryl’s passion for philanthropy,” Wolin said.

Wine enthusiasts and hiphop fans alike are invited to join this celebration and meet the artist while experiencing these new wines. The King DMC Wines are available exclusively at the winery or online at oldyorkcellars.com. The original Darryl Mack Cellars wines are available at Wegmans in New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania.

Roselle will lead a presentation on how physical wellness supports a stronger mindset, sharing insights on strength training, creating a personalized health and wellness plan, and developing daily habits for a healthier lifestyle. Drawing from her journey in competitive fitness, Roselle will share self-help tools designed to build confidence and inspire attendees to take charge of their wellness journey. Currently, Roselle coaches at Brazen Athletics, and serves as the director of personal training and group fitness at Xcel Athletic Lifestyle in Hoboken. She is also a strength and conditioning coach for Montclair State University Athletics, and is in the process of opening her first gym, Iron Grace, in Hoboken. Known for her motivational speaking and advocacy for body positivity, Roselle has been featured in Vogue, Strong, Self, and Women’s Health magazines.

Visit stuartschool.org for more information.

JUDITH BUDWIG Sales Associate Cell: 609-933-7886 | Office: 609-921-2600 judith.budwig@foxroach.com

“University Day is a moment for us to reflect on the incredible journey Thomas Edison State University has undertaken since achieving university status in 2015,” said Merodie A. Hancock, TESU president. “It’s also a time to look forward with the same momentum, as we continue to prioritize innovation and inclusivity in higher education. We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Rhianna Rogers this year, whose expertise in diversity, equity, and technology will provide invaluable insights as we foster a high-tech learning environment that is both transformative and deeply inclusive.”

The event will take place in Prudence Hall at Thomas Edison State University, 111 West State Street, Trenton. Registration is necessary. Visit tesu.edu.

Sing December 9 at 7:30pm

Rhianna Rogers

Courtney Roselle

continued from page one

politics and public affairs at Princeton University with a focus on political communication, including media coverage, candidates’ strategies, and public perceptions.

“This panel will provide insights into a closely fought electoral contest with enormous stakes for the health of American democracy and the well- being of people around the world,” said Mendelberg. “Panelists will address key questions surrounding the results: Which demographics were pivotal to the outcome? How did campaigns strategize to appeal to different groups? What was the role of race and gender? Was the result the outcome of economic conditions? Was there a protest vote, and what is the nature of the discontent?”

Mendelberg, who is also the director of the Program on Inequality at the Mamdouha S. Bobst Center for Peace and Justice at Princeton University, noted that the panel was designed “to foster constructive conversation that bridges divides and identifies common ground in addressing shared challenges.” A topic of particular interest to Democrats, she suggested, might be shifts in the electorate, as well as voter behavior, turnout patterns, and messaging strategies that could help the party “reconnect with constituencies where they have lost ground, including suburban voters, young people, and communities of color.”

Mendelberg went on to state that this event would go beyond partisan talking points to explore the “why” behind the election numbers. “While the panel will explore national trends, these shifts will have implications at the local level as well,” she wrote in an email. “Ultimately this event isn’t just about what happened; it’s also about understanding the present and preparing for the future.”

The CSDP website notes, “This event provides a rare opportunity to gain a behind-the-scenes look at the election from experts who analyze, shape, and report on the electoral landscape.” Visit spia.princeton.edu for more information and registration.

—Donald Gilpin

REENACTORS RETURN: The annual celebration of Patriots Week in Trenton brings Revolutionary history to life with battles, a Colonial Ball, and more December 26-31.

Old Barracks to Host Patriots Week Events

The Old Barracks hosts winter festivities during Patriots Week, a celebration of Trenton’s revolutionary role in America’s history, December 26-31.

The Colonial Ball will take place on Friday, December at 7 p.m. at the Masonic Temple. Historically-outfitted reenactors and those who choose not to be in costume can dance to the sounds of colonial America. Tickets will be available for purchase beginning December 2 for $40 for non-members, and $35 for members. Tickets must be purchased in advance; no tickets will be available at the door.

The Battles of Trenton Reenactments will be held on Saturday, December 28. The first will take place at 11 a.m. at the Battle Monument, the second will begin at 3 p.m. in Mill Hill Park. Admission is free. A special $5 admission to the museum grounds is held on the day of the battles. These events are rain or shine.

Cherry Grove Farm Wins Cheese Awards

Cherry Grove Farm’s Herdsman, Havilah, and Havilah Reserve have been honored as 2024 World Cheese Award winners.

The World Cheese Awards, the premier cheese international awards, brings together experts in the field, judging cheeses from 47 countries and with close to 5,000 entries.

The Herdsman received a Gold, and the Havilah and Havilah Reserve received Bronze honors. Cherry Grove Farm, a dairy farm and creamery, is located on 480 acres at 3200 Lawrenceville Road (Route 206) in Lawrenceville.

The company’s farmstead cheeses are made exclusively from its grass-fed raw cows’ milk. The cheeses are made in small batches and aged on the farm, with attention

paid to the craft of cheesemaking from seasonal milk. The farm practices intensive rotational grazing and harvest hay in the summer. They operate low-input on their land, and rest its cows (and people) during the winter months.

“This is the first year we've entered. We're thrilled the judges of the World Cheese Awards honored our skillful team that crafts these cheeses,” said owner Oliver Hamill. "We see this award as an honored recognition of our team, our land, our cows, and the exceptional cheese we can yield from grass-fed cows.”

Taking place annually, the World Cheese Awards is hosted by different nations, working with the Guild of Fine Food to shine a light on local cheesemaking, food & drink tourism, and culture. This year the Awards,

hosted in Portugal, had a record 4,786 cheeses from 47 countries. They were evaluated by 240 judges from 40 countries, with experts in the field of cheese such as technologists and cheese graders, as well as retailers, buyers, chefs, and journalists.

Cherry Grove cheeses are available at the Farm Store, local farmers markets, and in many specialty cheese shops such as Olsson's Fine Foods in Palmer Square. Visit cherrygrovefarm.com for more information.

Police Blotter

On November 18, at 2:19 p.m., Princeton Police responded to a residence on Constitution Hill East after a resident discovered the rear exterior double doors ajar with possible pry marks observed. The resident encountered an elderly woman who claimed ownership of the condominium before leaving the scene in a silver pickup truck driven by an older male. Patrols searched the property and confirmed no signs of theft or other disturbance. A search of the area and for the individual and the vehicle was unsuccessful. Police are investigating.

On November 17, at 12:17 a.m., police responded to a commercial business on Hulfish Street on the report of an adult male within the establishment after the close of business. Further investigation revealed that the unknown male had entered the business through a rear emergency exit door, which was left propped open, and he remained inside without authorization. A check of the surrounding area for the male was conducted but was unsuccessful. No criminal activity took place within the establishment by the unknown individual. Police are investigating.

On November 16, at 1:05 a.m., subsequent to a motor vehicle stop for an unregistered vehicle, the driver, a 38-year-old male from Mount

Holly, was placed under arrest for Driving While Intoxicated. He was transported to police headquarters where he was processed, charged accordingly, and later released. He was also issued summonses for Reckless Driving and Unregistered Vehicle.

On November 15, at 11:48 a.m., a resident reported a criminal mischief incident that occurred sometime between November 14 and November 15, in the area of Christopher Drive. An investigation revealed that an unknown person carved the words “Death 2 Zionism” in wet cement on the sidewalk that was recently repaired. The Municipal Engineering Department was coordinating repairs. No suspects have been identified.

On November 15, at 11 a.m., police were dispatched to a residence on Cedar Lane on the report of a residential burglary. The investigation revealed that, between November 8 and November 15, an unknown suspect, or suspects, unlawfully entered the residence after forcing entry through a window. Upon entering the residence, the suspect, or suspects, rummaged through several bedrooms. At the time of the report, items stolen from the residence were unknown. The Detective Bureau is investigating.

On November 14, at 1:31 a.m., subsequent to a motor vehicle stop on Nassau Street for failure to maintain the lane of travel, a 65-year-old Princeton female was placed under arrest for Driving While Intoxicated. She was transported to police headquarters where she was processed, charged accordingly and later released. Additionally, she was issued summonses for Refusal to Submit to Breath Testing, Failure to Maintain Lane, Reckless Driving, and Uninsured Motor Vehicle.

On November 13, at 2:25 p.m., a Shadybrook Lane resident reported the theft of two packages from their front porch, with a total value estimated to be $900. The Detective Bureau is investigating. Unless noted, individuals arrested were later released.

Each Friday afternoon, we send a roundup of the week’s top stories, breaking news, and upcoming

Don’t miss out on The

“The Trouble with Trenton” interactive puppet shows, presented by Tuckers Tales, will also be held on Saturday, December 28, at 12 and 2 p.m. at Warren Street Plaza. The puppet shows are a family-friendly “mini” look at American history and are free to attend.

The Old Barracks will be hosting musket demonstrations at 1 p.m. on December 26 and 27. These are included with the entry fee.

To purchase tickets and learn more, visit barracks. org/patriots-week.

Think Global Buy Local

The views of the letters do not necessarily reflect the views of

Thanks to Princeton Public Library for Providing Assistance for Those with Hearing Difficulties

To the Editor:

This is a shout out to the Princeton Public Library and staff for the way in which they provide effective communication for their patrons with hearing difficulties.

The library is equipped with hearing loops at the information desks, the check-out counter, and in the Community Room and other public meeting spaces. These systems can be used by anyone using a hearing aid fitted with telecoil. For those people whose hearing aid does not include a telecoil, the library provides on request receivers to connect instead.

Not only is the technology made available but there is signage posted — the International Symbol of Access for Hearing Loss — blue background with outline of a white ear with a small “T” at the lower right — to let patrons know it’s there.

Going even further at the start of every public function the moderator, Janie Hermann or her colleagues, without fail announces that there is a loop system in the room and to request a receiver if needed.

There is more! The film series are shown with captions. Captioning benefits people with hearing loss but also those for whom English is a second language, emerging readers, students with learning disabilities, individuals with ADD/ADHD, and those watching media content in noisy environments.

I worked for 25 years before coming to Princeton advocating for laws that ensure effective communication in all areas of daily life, employment, education, health care, and civic responsibility. Princeton should be proud that the public library knows how to provide hearing access for the many people with hearing difficulties and does it consistently.

On behalf of all of us with hearing difficulties, thank you to Princeton Library and staff for enabling us to participate fully in the excellent programs you offer.

BRENDA

BATTAT Jefferson Road

Tearing Down Kiosks on Nassau Street Would Diminish Idea of Community Itself

To the Editor:

I wish to add my voice to those opposing removal of the Nassau Street kiosks but from a slightly different perspective.

Twenty years ago, I began visiting the kiosks several times a week for a period of eight months. My initial goal was simply to photograph material relating to the then-unfolding presidential campaign. Soon, however, I became fascinated by the way all the posted items, not just the political ones, related to each other, how the weather and the imposition of new messages over old were creating a kind of running museum exhibit, one that changed weekly if not daily. My ambitions became more artistic and eventually the Princeton Arts Council hosted a well-received exhibit featuring a wide range of images.

Advocates for tearing down the kiosks call them a mess. Understandably, I don’t see it that way. I still make it a point to visit the kiosks and still find the visits endlessly rewarding, revealing in so many ways who we are as a community.

The kiosks represent a vanishing world, a world of paper and print, a world where you have to do more than press a keynote to get your message out, one which demands that you actually take the time to go outside and even perform modest physical labor to let the community know what you are up to. I suppose in the end what I’m trying to say is that the kiosks provide a unique mirror for viewing ourselves. They are a running reflection of who we are, a stage on which time and space come together. Tear down the kiosks and you are removing much more than a couple of structures; you are diminishing the idea of community itself.

WALTER

FRANK Riverside Drive

Letters to the Editor Policy

Town Topics welcomes letters to the Editor, preferably on subjects related to Princeton. Letters must have a valid street address (only the street name will be printed with the writer’s name). Priority will be given to letters that are received for publication no later than Monday noon for publication in that week’s Wednesday edition. Letters must be no longer than 500 words and have no more than four signatures.

All letters are subject to editing and to available space.

At least a month’s time must pass before another letter from the same writer can be considered for publication.

Letters are welcome with views about actions, policies, ordinances, events, performances, buildings, etc. However, we will not publish letters that include content that is, or may be perceived as, negative towards local figures, politicians, or political candidates as individuals.

When necessary, letters with negative content may be shared with the person/group in question in order to allow them the courtesy of a response, with the understanding that the communications end there.

Letters to the Editor may be submitted, preferably by email, to editor@towntopics.com, or by post to Town Topics, PO Box 125, Kingston, N.J. 08528. Letters submitted via mail must have a valid signature.

Books

Disability Inclusion Activist to Discuss His New Book at Library

Disability inclusion activist Doug McCullough discusses his new book, A Billion People in the Shadows: The Ultimate 1-hour Guide to Understanding Disability, with Princeton tech and communications specialist Chris Boraski on Sunday, December 1 at 3 p.m. The program is at the Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street.

In a world that often excludes or overlooks the experiences and perspectives of individuals with disabilities, A Billion People in the Shadows (Publish Your Purpose, $14.99) is a compelling exploration of the world’s largest and most misunderstood minority group, according to the publisher. With 15-20 percent of the global population living with disabilities, McCullough’s narrative delves into the profound impact of societal perceptions and self-imposed stigma on those facing all types of disability, including sensory, physical, intellectual, developmental, and mental health.

McCullough uses his journey with a degenerative neuromuscular disease (spinal muscular atrophy) to candidly reveal the shame and marginalization often experienced by those in the disability community, who, despite academic, professional, and social successes, often wrestle with how to “show up” as a person with a disability. McCullough asserts that self-doubt and low expectations can be more crippling than any disability, and call for full inclusion rather than mere accessibility ,and provides practical insights on how society can do better.

An “accidental activist,” McCullough holds an MBA from Duke University, multiple professional achievements, and has had a long

Explore the Role Of New Jersey’s Colonial Taverns at Library Event

career at Johnson & Johnson, but spent most of his early life under the impression that his degenerative neuromuscular disease was something to be hidden. He now works to raise the bar on disability inclusion and normalize what are often awkward conversations about the challenges and experiences of “the world’s most misunderstood minority.”

Moderator Boraski is an entrepreneurial-minded, hands-on technical leader with broad experience constructing mobile apps and web applications. As the co-founder of Princeton Tech Meetup and a board member at Princeton Toastmasters he is a communicator, community builder, and speaker.

Princeton Library Staff to Hold Session on Favorite Reads

Based on the Icelandic tradition of Jolabokaflod, attendees and Princeton Public Library staff will gather to discuss their favorite recent books, and find their next great read, on Tuesday, December 10 at 2 p.m. in the Newsroom of the library, 65 Witherspoon Street.

Library staff will share some of their favorite recent books, buzz about upcoming titles, and offer advice for finding your next book to read or give as a gift.

Jolabokaflod, or the Yule Book Flood, originated during World War II when foreign imports were restricted, but paper was cheap. Iceland could not support a year-round publishing industry, so book publishers flooded the market with new titles in the final weeks of the year, and thus the tradition of exchanging books as gifts in December was born.

For more information, visit proncetonlibrary.org.

Explore the rich history of taverns in Colonial New Jersey with author Michael C. Gabriele on Wednesday, December 11 at 7 p.m., at the Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street. Sip hot cider while discovering the crucial role of taverns in the American Revolution as places where the voices of history were spoken. The program is presented in partnership with the Historical Society of Princeton. Gabriele, whose book, Colonial Taverns of New Jersey: Libations, Liberty & Revolution, was published by The History Press in April 2023 ($23.99), is a lifelong Garden State resident and a 1975 graduate of Montclair State University who has worked as a journalist and author for more than 40 years. Gabriele is a member of the board of trustees for the New Jersey Folk Festival at Rutgers University, a member of the executive boards for the Allied Artists of America, the Nutley Historical Society, and the Theater League of Clifton, and serves on the advisory board

of the Clifton Arts Center.

“New Jersey was the ‘Crossroads of the American Revolution,’” said Gabriele, “and as battles raged, colonial taverns formed the social network that held the state together. Taverns were the stage for the unfolding drama of a colony transitioning into statehood and making decisions about declaring a war of independence.” He noted that New Jersey’s General Assembly, meeting in September 1777 at a tavern in Haddonfield, declared New Jersey to be “a state, not a colony,” in effect, joining the call for revolution and a break from British rule. Taverns were used as recruitment stations for colonial militias and meeting places for local committees of safety, which ran daily municipal matters for communities. George Washington drafted many letters and planned strategy with his generals from tavern headquarters. Get the scoop from

Let Us Now Praise James Agee On His 115th Birthday

The day after I wrote an article on Elon Musk referencing his first and foremost “life lesson,” that “empathy is not an asset,” the New York Times came up with a front page that instantly connected with my post-election state of mind. Lead head: “Chop First and Fix Later: How Musk Tames Costs.” The story directly beneath: “Trump Stands by Defense Pick Who Denies Sex Assault Claim.” Directly under that: “Robots Still Lack Human Touch in Warehouses.” And just below came two smaller heads previewing stories in the Business section: “Social Media Veers Right” and “Spirit Files for Bankruptcy.”

While the “spirit” in the story is a lowfare airline, what stands out in the current news cycle is the primary meaning of the word as understood by James Agee, who was born on this day in 1909. In his biography James Agee: A Life (Penguin 1985), Laurence Bergreen underscores Agee’s “eloquent” response to the April 12, 1945 death of President Roosevelt. Writing in The Nation, Agee celebrated Roosevelt as someone whose passing would inspire men with a “metaphysical yet very literal faith” in a “unanimity and massiveness of spirit.” Bergreen adds that Agee “perceived the same massiveness of spirit among Southern blacks.”

Carter on Agee

“His spirit is as strong as ever,” said Jimmy Carter’s grandson when the former president celebrated his 100th birthday on October 1. Carter’s is the first voice you hear in the Ross Spears documentary Agee (1980). Referring to Let Us Now Praise Famous Men (1940), the worddrunk masterpiece of inspired empathy Agee constructed around Walker Evans’s photographs of Alabama tenant farmers and their families, Carter says, “The life he was writing about was almost exactly the life I knew. We were not as poor but my neighbors were.” Carter’s feeling for the book that “touched my heart” is a quietly thoughtful appreciation of Agee’s “projection on a universal basis of the suffering and destitution of people who were afflicted by poverty.” Carter goes on to speak of Agee’s “sensitivity,” adding that “his personal projection of himself into the scene or the person’s life was unique,” bringing “a new dimension to descriptive literature.”

Spirit and Empathy

Whenever I search out a sample of Agee’s genius, I find myself landing on the same passage, even though there are many others, enough to fill at least ten of these columns. What sets this brief explosion of imagination apart is its dynamic mixture of empathy and spirit, plus music, and a driven, unstoppable, middle-ofthe-night passion that goes and goes and soars and soars like a Charlie Parker solo.

The inspiration is a sharecropper’s mirror in one of the homes Agee and photographer Walker Evans visited in 1936: “The mirror is so far corrupted that it is rashed with gray, iridescent in parts, and in all its reflections a deeply sad thin zinc-to-platinum, giving to its framings an almost incalculably ancient, sweet, frail, and piteous beauty, such as may be seen in tintypes of family groups among studio furnishings or heard in nearly exhausted jazz records made by very young, insane, devout men who were soon to destroy themselves, in New Orleans, in the early nineteen twenties.”

An excess of empathy? Spirit on steroids? Too many delirious adjectives? I never felt like parsing it or deconstructing it. Agee played the piano. Maybe he created this cadenza after improvising a ragtime sonata while dreaming of Chopin and Jelly Roll Morton in the wee small hours of the morning in Frenchtown, N.J., where much of Let Us Now Praise Famous Men was written.

Swift and Beethoven

Agee was 23 and fresh out of Harvard when he was hired by Fortune magazine. Installed in an office on the 52nd floor of the 77-story Chrysler Building, he found that life at Fortune “had compensations beyond a paycheck.”

According to Bergreen’s biography: “After settling into the routine there, he resumed his habit of writing late at night, relishing the prospect of solitude in the gigantic, deserted skyscraper. As it swayed gently in a strong wind, the building itself seemed to come to life.”

playing Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony there — with all New York about 600 feet below you” and with the Ode to Joy “taking in the whole earth, and with everyone on earth supposedly singing it.”

Typically, Agee balances his rhapsody with some topical realism, referring to “all this depression over the world” and of two feelings the city inspires, “one the feeling of that music — of a love and pity and joy that nearly floors you,” and the other “of Swift’s sort, when you see the people you love, any mob of them in this block I live in — with a tincture of sickness and cruelty and selfishness in the faces of most of them, sometimes an apparently total and universal blindness to kindliness and good and beauty.”

Agee Talking

James Agee was “a youthful-looking” 27 when he and Walker Evans headed south for the Fortune magazine assignment that resulted in Let Us Now Praise Famous Men

On a Friday night in August 1932, Agee wrote to Father Flye, an Episcopalian priest, his oldest and dearest friend. He’d been rereading Gulliver’s Travels After trying to express “the love and dumb reverence” he felt for Swift, he said, “I don’t think many people have ever lived with as little compromise to the cruelties in human nature, with such acute pain at the sight of them, and such profound love for what the human race could or might be .

[Agee’s emphasis]”

Moving from Swift to Beethoven, Agee mentioned playing his phonograph late at night at top volume: “An empty skyscraper is just about an ideal place for it. Something attracts me very much about

As Evans puts it in his foreword to the 1960 edition, Agee’s voice “was pronouncedly quiet and low-pitched,” giving “the impression of diffidence, but never of weakness.” Physically, he was “quite powerful, in the deceptive way of uninsistent large men. In movement, he was rather graceless. His hands were large, long, bony, light, and uncared for. His gestures were one of the memorable things about him. He seemed to model, fight, and stroke his phrases as he talked. The talk, in the end, was his great distinguishing feature. He talked his prose, Agee prose. It was hardly a twentieth century style; it had Elizabethan colors. Yet it had extraordinarily knowledgeable contemporary content. It rolled just as it reads, but he made it sound natural — something just there in the air like any other part of the world.”

Agee on Film

Another part of Agee’s world, one that often challenged his “gift for empathy,” was the film criticism he wrote between 1942 and 1948, for The Nation and Time, which has been collected in The Library of America’s Agee: Film Writing and Selected Journalism. When Agee is sufficiently motivated, each review becomes a working pilgrimage during which he lives, feels, endures, grapples with, and prosecutes

his subject memorably enough that W.H. Auden called Agee’s column in The Nation “the most remarkable regular event in American journalism.” When empathy takes a back seat to the Swiftian pain Agee feels “at the sight of the cruelties in human nature” and his love for what could or might be in the Hollywood product, the result can be hilariously savage.

Untimely Death

James Agee died of a heart attack on May 16, 1955, in a cab en route to a doctor’s appointment. Ravaged by decades of heavy smoking and drinking, he was only 45. The event that sent him in that direction was the death of his father in a singlevehicle accident in 1915 when Agee was 6. He recounts the story in his Pulitzerprize-winning novel, A Death in the Family (1957). Although he died before he could fi nish it, the novel is at once richly lyrical and unfl inchingly true to life. Most admirable of all is Agee’s spirited empathy, that word again, not only for the father, the family dealing with sudden death, but for the boy that lived in and learned from it.

The Other Swift

Last October, when I reviewed Taylor Swift: In Her Own Words (Agate 2019), I quoted her opening statement, which was set apart on a single page: “I feel no need to burn down the house I built by hand. I can make additions to it. I can redecorate. But I built this.” She was referring to the album 1989, titled after her birth year, and I was thinking that her illustrious namesake, Jonathan Swift, might have written those words, such was their cranky, inyour-face command of the moment.

In “On the Porch: 2,” a chapter of Let Us Now Praise Famous Men written late on a Frenchtown summer night, James Agee suggests that “severe and otherwise insolvable human and spiritual problems are solved in every performance of, or for that matter in the silent existence of, say, Beethoven’s quartet, Opus 131.” Or perhaps Taylor Swift’s song “The Outside,” composed when she was 12: “I didn’t know what I would find / When I went looking for a reason.”

Tennessee Roots

Swift grew up in Nashville, Tennessee, where she began her career as a country-western singer. Worth a look online is a March 27 post headed “Taylor Swift’s family tree shines with love, heartbreak and the triumph of the human spirit.” Agee grew up 180 miles east in Knoxville, the setting of A Death in the Family, reprinted in 2009 with an introduction by Steve Earle, who calls the novel “powerful and beautiful and very nearly perfect ... in the humble, uneducated opinion of a hillbilly singer with delusions of grandeur.”

—Stuart Mitchner

IMcCarter Theatre Presents Innovative String Quartet Ensemble

t would be hard to choose who was the greater teenaged composer — Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart or Felix Mendelssohn. The prodigious musical childhood of Mozart has long been documented, but the works of the young Mendelssohn were no less remarkable. The New York City-based Renaissance String Quartet brought one of Mendelssohn’s early works to life in a concert last Thursday night at McCarter Theatre Center’s Matthews Theatre. Violinists Randall Goosby and Jeremiah Blacklow, violist Jameel Martin, and cellist Daniel Hass played Mendelssohn’s youthful String Quartet No. 1 in E-flat Major in an evening beginning with the early 19th century and ending with a composer born almost at the turn of the 21st century.

The Renaissance Quartet’s inventive approach to chamber music was evident from the moment the musicians came onstage. The Quartet began Mendelssohn’s first published work —emphasizing a sadness in the opening “Adagio” — with expressive motivic gestures which may have been meant as a tribute to the recently deceased Beethoven. The Quartet musicians kept chipper passages bright, with violist Martin bringing out lush melodic lines. The second movement “Canzonetta” reflected Mendelssohn’s ballet A Midsummer Night’s Dream, with an elfin middle section abounding with fluttering fairies in the violins. The Quartet showed its playful side in this music, but never lost the required rhythmic precision.

First violinist Goosby had a chance to shine in the subsequent “Andante,” with a lyrical aria-like melody, leading the other players in the emotional impact. There were numerous passages of agitated playing, and all four instrumentalists were uniform in the quick bowings. Mendelssohn again showed his affinity for Beethoven in the final movement, with “false” cadences complemented by an expressive solo violin soliloquy by Goosby to bring the charming Quartet to a close.

Leoš Janácek’s String Quartet No. 1, subtitled Kreutzer Sonata, was his fi rst foray into the genre, musically telling a hair-raising story drawn from a Leo Tolstoy novel. Tolstoy’s 1889 The Kreutzer Sonata was a tale of Russian love, jealousy and murder, which Janácek set in four

Holiday Pops!

movements from the unusual perspective of a murdered wife. The Renaissance Quartet opened the programmatic work with an ominous duet between first violin and viola, punctuated by restless cello. All four instruments traded around the pathos of the story, with each musician having their turn with the unsettling commentary.

Consistent throughout the piece was a driving ostinato representing the train on which much of the action took place. Violinists Goosby and Blacklow provided poignant melodies, as the train kept rolling along in persistent rhythm. Cellist Hass played a particularly rich line in the closing movement as the victim in Tolstoy’s murderous narrative became resigned to her fate.

Composing for string quartet has been part of music history for hundreds of years, and Renaissance Quartet cellist Daniel Hass has continued the tradition into the 21st century. Hass’ String Quartet No. 1: “Love and Levity” was premiered by his Quartet colleagues in 2023, and has added a work of diverse musical languages to the repertory. Beginning with a hymn-like introduction, this Quartet reflected a bit of everything in its roots, including jazz, minimalism and exotic melodic writing. First violinist Goosby led the second movement “Hermit’s Waltz” with a dramatic melody, also demonstrating quick and lithe playing in more demanding passages. he third movement “Largo” was especially appealing in its scoring for mostly upper strings, with cellist Hass punctuating the sound. The Quartet built intensity through a repeating melodic fragment, contrasted by chordal string writing. The closing movement “hoe-down” was pure exuberance, with Goosby and violist Martin driving the vitality of the bluegrass-like music. This movement in particular combined musical styles, with chordal playing from the lower strings against agitated first violin lines to close Hass’ imaginative work. With several well-established string ensembles recently retiring, the Renaissance String Quartet, with its fresh and energetic style, well proved on Thursday night that they are ready to step to the forefront of chamber music performance.

—Nancy Plum

Performing Arts

Music by Three Composers On Richardson Program

The Princeton University Sinfonia will present a concert on Sunday, December 8, at 3 p.m. at Richardson Auditorium. Ruth Ochs will lead the program.

The concert will open with an early work by Jean Sibelius, his Karelia Overture, a musical tribute to the region in Finland’s southeast.

The world premiere of Kindly as dust I scatter towards light by Princeton undergraduate composer, Romit Kundagrami ’26, is also featured. A student in Princeton’s School of Public and International Affairs, where he researches migration, Kundagrami devotes significant time to Princeton’s musical ensembles, and he credits those experiences as inspiration.

“In this work, I go back to exploring the atmospheric world (though not in a minimalist context), and in its form, I try to express the role of music as a healer,”

he said. Kundagrami, who is from Houston, is a member of Princeton’s Glee Club and Sinfonia.

Borodin’s Symphony No. 2 is also on the program.

“It is always fun to program Borodin’s music,” said Ochs. “Students come to me excited and share that they recently learned of his significant contributions as a chemist.”

As a composer, Borodin created symphonies, chamber music, and an opera, though many of those remained unfinished at his death. Sinfonia’s program also includes a nod to the holiday season: Mel Tormé’s “The Christmas Song.”

The Princeton University Sinfonia is made up of over 80 undergraduate and graduate students, and regularly presents concerts in Richardson Auditorium. Tickets to this concert ($15 general admission/$5 students) are available at tickets.princeton. edu. For more information visit music.princeton.edu and sinfonia.princeton.edu.

Motown Greats to Perform

At New Brunswick Venue

State Theatre New Jersey presents The Temptations & The Four Tops on Thursday, December 12 at 7:30 p.m.

The two iconic Motown groups will perform their biggest hits including “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination,” “Papa Was a Rolling Stone,” “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch),” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” “Baby, I Need Your Loving,” and many more.

The Temptations are revered for their phenomenal catalog of music and prolific career. While the group has evolved over the years, founding member Otis Williams has continued to lead the group. They were ranked No. 1 in Billboard magazine’s most recent list of the Greatest R&B/HipHop Artists of All Time.

The Temptations are the recipients of numerous awards and honors, and have been the subject of the Broadway musical, Ain’t Too Proud:

The Life and Times of The Temptations.

The Four Tops, originally called the Four Aims, made their first single for Chess in 1956, and spent seven years on the road and in nightclubs, singing pop, blues, Broadway, but mostly jazz — four-part harmony jazz. When Motown’s Berry Gordy Jr. found out they had hustled a national Tonight Show appearance, he signed them without an audition to be the marquee act for the company’s Workshop Jazz label.

Their first Motown hit, “Baby I Need Your Loving” in 1964, made them stars.

State Theatre New Jersey is at 15 Livingston Avenue in New Brunswick. Visit stnj. org for tickets, which range from $59-$159.

Folksinger David Roth Returns to Local Stage

The Princeton Folk Music Society welcomes back singer-songwriter David Roth to Christ Congregation Church, 50 Walnut Lane, for a concert on Friday, December 13 at 8 p.m.

Roth’s unique songs have made him a favorite of the Princeton Folk Music Society, which is presenting him for the sixth time. Roth’s songs have been recorded by Christine Lavin, Anne Hills, and Tom Chapin, among others. His appearances have ranged from singing the national anthem in front of a sold-out Chicago Bulls/ New York Knicks game to intimate house concerts and innumerable workshops to singing for the United Nations 40th Anniversary celebration.

Tickets are available online or at the door (if not sold-o ut): $25 ($20 members, $10 students). Visit princetonfolk.org for tickets and livestream access.

Passage Theatre Company

Celebrates a Milestone Singer-songwriter and activist John Flynn is the headliner at a night of song and peace Saturday, December 7 at 6 p.m. to mark the 40th anniversary of Trenton’s Passage Theatre Company. The event, hosted by Leticia Williams, includes preshow refreshments provided by Gingered Peach and Kafe Ojala.

Flynn is considered a champion of justice and healing the community through group song. His voice is an ardent yet whimsical battle cry and he will inspire you to join the fight. The late Kris Kristofferson, a long time friend of Flynn, has called him “ an important artist whose work in prisons, rehabs, and half-way houses is distilled into the truth

and the beauty of heartfelt and heartwarming slices of life.”

Passage Theatre’s neighbor, The Lobby Club, will be open for special hours be-

fore the event. Also taking place that day is the annual Mill Hill Neighborhood Holiday House

PEACE AT PASSAGE: Singer-songwriter/activist John Flynn performs at the 40th anniversary fundraiser for Trenton’s Passage Theatre Company on December 7.

AN AFTERNOON OF MUSIC: Princeton University Sinfonia, conducted by Ruth Ochs, appears at Richardson Auditorium on Sunday, December 8.

TWO LEGENDARY GROUPS: The Four Tops, shown here, will appear with The Temptations at State Theatre New Jersey on December 12.

FOLK HERO: David Roth brings his bold style of singing and songwriting to Christ Congregation Church on Friday, December 13 at 8 p.m. (Photo courtesy of Michael and Suz Karchmer)

Tour. Visit passagetheatre.org. for tickets.

Wednesday, November 27

Home for theHolidays

Visions of Sugar Plums Dance Through Central New Jersey in “Nutcracker” Ballets

10 a.m.–4 p.m.: The 2019 Festival of Trees begins at Morven Museum & Garden. On view Wednesdays–Sundays through January 5. 55 Stockton Street, Princeton.

history throughout the exhibit. 84 South Pine Street, Doylestown, Pa. Through February 9. Thursday, November 28

Feast your eyes on a whirlwind of pirouettes in the coming weeks, as several dance companies take on the timeless holiday classic ballet, The Nutcracker, set to music by Peter Ilych Tchaikovsky.

10 a.m.: “Pigskin Peanuts” exhibit at the Mercer Museum. Just in time for football season, the Mercer Museum is showcasing a selection of Charles M. Schulz’s famous footballthemed comic strips in a new exhibit. The Mercer Museum will also highlight original artifacts, photography. and memorabilia from Bucks County football

The festive seasonal ballet first choreographed in 1892 by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, adapted from the book The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffman, has since evolved into different versions with many of the productions allowing young dance students to perform with professional artists. While most versions follow the traditional tale of a young girl’s enchanted journey through a winter wonderland and a land of sweets presided over by a Sugar Plum Fairy, each production has its own point of view, each appealing in its

THANKSGIVING

11 a.m.: Annual Princeton Community Thanksgiving Day Service at Princeton University Chapel. Friday, November 29

A holiday tradition for some 60 years, the ARB’s professional dancers take the stage with students from Princeton Ballet School (PBS), the official school of ARB. The production incudes the traditional dancing snowflakes, toy soldiers, Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier, and candy canes jumping through hoops.

10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Covered Bridge Artisans 25th Annual Studio Tour. A selfguided tour through the Delaware River Valley visiting artists in their studios. Through December 1. www.coveredbridgeartisans.com.

10 a.m.: Holiday Craft Show at Pearl S. Buck House, 520 Dublin Road, Perkasie, Pa. $4 daily admission. The region’s best artisans unite for this juried collection of crafts, gifts, fine art, jewelry, and antiques. Luncheon café open daily. Gift shop discount available with ticket. Through December 8 at 4 p.m.

combat food insecurity. For more information, visit arminarm.org

ARB will be performing

ARB’s Director of Artistic Operations Samantha Dunster calls this season “one of the most magical times of the year!”

“Every button, crystal, and sequin has been intentionally placed to provide the maximum artistic impact for both the audience and the performer. While the audience may not see many of these tiny details, the dancers wearing the costumes certainly do, and it’s so important for them to feel the character they are portraying in order for the audience to be swept away in the magic of the story.”

12 p.m.: “World Nativities Exhibition” at Glencairn Museum. Dozens of three-dimensional Nativity scenes collected from around the world. Through January 5. 1001 Cathedral Road, Bryn Athyn, Pa.

The Nutcracker at the State Theatre New Jersey in New Brunswick on Friday, December 20, at 7:30 p.m.; on Saturday, December 21, at 2 and 7 p.m.; and on Sunday, December 22, at 1 and 5 p.m. Tickets range from $29 to $69.The New Brunswick performances will feature the musicians of the Nutcracker Orchestra conducted by Kenneth T. Bean, and singers from the Princeton GirlChoir.

Visit arballet.org or call (609) 921-77458 to learn more.

HOLIDAY SALE UP TO 70% OFF farringtonsmusic.com

American Repertory Ballet

The American Repertory Ballet’s (ARB) large-scale production of The Nutcracker returns November 29, and runs until December 22, with performances in Princeton, Red Bank, Trenton, and New Brunswick.

ARB’s production is marked by the work of a production, staging, and wardrobe team that has been working since the beginning of September to put all elements of the monthlong production into place.

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Wardrobe Supervisor Janessa Cornell Urwin said it takes more than 100 hours to make one single tutu, including hand-finishing, gluing, and sewing on around 200 Swarovski crystals.

“Every costume in this production has been carefully thought out, from the grand vision of the designs to the tiny details of the fabrics and trims in each costume piece,” said Urwin.

ARB’s The Nutcracker is at McCarter Theatre Center in Princeton on Friday, November 29 at 2 and 7 p.m.; Saturday, November 30 at 1 and 6 p.m.; and Sunday, December 1, at 1 p.m. Tickets range from $43 to $73.

2-4 p.m.: OptOutside at Mountain Lakes instead of Black Friday shopping. Nature-themed activities, music, snacks, nature walks, sponsored by Friends of Princeton Open Space. Free. fopos.org.

The Nutcracker will be at Two River Theater in Red Bank on Saturday, December 7, at 1 and 6 p.m.; and Sunday, December 8, at 1 p.m. Tickets range from $32.50 to $65.

2 and 7:30 p.m.: American Repertory Ballet performs The Nutcracker, with guest artists Unity Phelan and Adrian Danching-Waring of New York City Ballet, at McCarter Theatre, 91 University Place. mccarter. org.

ARB’s The Nutcracker will also be at Patriots Theater at the War Memorial in Trenton on Saturday, December 14 at 1 and 5 p.m. Tickets range from $15 to $35. At these performances ARB will be collecting items for donation to Arm In Arm to

5-6 p.m.: Annual tree lighting in Palmer Square. Performances by Princeton High School Choir and School of Rock Princeton.

8 p.m.: A Christmas Carol at Music Mountain Theatre, through December 15. Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays at 3 p.m. 1483 Route Scrooge The

Roxey Ballet

Roxey Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” returns for its 29th year, opening Thanksgiving weekend and running through December 8 at Villa Victoria Theater at 376 Upper Ferry Road in Ewing. Well known as a child- and family-friendly production, this performance celebrates community, featuring local children and families alongside the Roxey Ballet cast. Audiences will join young Clara on her magical journey, meeting marching soldiers, swirling snowflakes, and waltzing flowers, with detailed costumes and sets. The production will

“The NUTCRACKER”: Dancer Mikaela Miranda poses with the Nutcracker in The Dance Connection’s production of “The Nutcracker.” The classic holiday ballet is being performed by several companies in and around Princeton his holiday season.

be offered for school matinees, sensory-friendly performances, and Nutcracker Suites and Tea Parties. Virtual viewing options are also available.

Audiences can also expect a visit from Santa and his jolly friends during the performance.

“At Roxey Ballet, The Nutcracker is more than just a holiday classic — it’s an experience that brings together generations,” said Mark Roxey, founder and director of Roxey Ballet. “Our production is the most childfriendly in the region, with a welcoming environment that invites young audiences and aspiring dancers alike to share in the magic of Tchaikovsky’s music and timeless ballet. With professional artists performing alongside our young dancers, each performance becomes a living classroom where talent, passion, and artistry meet. This unique collaboration creates an incredible learning opportunity for aspiring professionals, allowing them to grow and connect with the beauty and discipline of ballet in a meaningful way. This is our 29th year of forging the future.”

For tickets, visit roxeyballet.org/nutcracker.

MENORAH LIGHTING: Join friends from The Jewish Center of Princeton at the Nassau Inn patio for the Annual Menorah Lighting on Wednesday, December 18 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. It has been a tradition for many years to celebrate Hanukkah in Palmer Square and everyone can join in this ceremonial festivity, which includes music and fun. The dates of Hanukkah this year are Wednesday, December 25 through Thursday, January 2.

Princeton Youth Ballet

Princeton Youth Ballet (PYB) presents its Nutcracker ballet on Saturday, December 7 at 4 p.m. and Sunday, December 8 at 12 and 4 p.m. at the Princeton High School Performing Arts Center, 16 Walnut Lane.

According to PYB Artistic Director Talin Kenar, “While most present-day productions follow the familiar libretto — a young girl receives a Nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve, the doll magically becomes a prince, and she travels with him to a fantastic kingdom of sweets, and seemingly awakens to

find herself wondering if it was all a dream — Princeton Youth Ballet’s version leans into a heartwarming, coming-of-age story, teasing out sparkling and humorous narrative details to enhance the experience of the traditional ballet for children.”

Featuring choreography

Wednesday, December 4, 7:30pm

service of readings and

ANNUAL

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Princeton University Chapel

A

music for Advent and Christmas, featuring the Princeton University Chapel Choir, Chamber Choir, and a cappella groups. Free, open to all. No tickets required.

HOLIDAY MARKET

TOWN TOPICS | Holiday Happenings

Fees and/or pre-registration required for some events. Additional dates/performances may not be listed here. Please see event website for full details.

Wednesday, November 27

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON: Mercer County Community College Jazz Ensemble at MarketFair Princeton. 6 to 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit marketfairshoppes.com/events.

Thursday, November 28

TRINITY TURKEY

TROT: 17th Annual 5K Run/Walk; 8:30 a.m. start, rain or shine. Trinity Church, 33 Mercer Street, Princeton. trinityturkeytrot.org.

HOPEWELL VALLEY

TURKEY TROT: 14th Annual; 9 a.m. Mercer Meadows, Rosedale Park — Federal City Road, Pennington. Register at raceroster.com/ events/2024/92692/hopewellvalley-turkey-trot-2024.

Friday, November 29

SCREENING OF ELF: At the Princeton Garden Theatre, 10 a.m. Princetongardentheatre.org.

THE NUTCRACKER: Presented by the American Repertory Ballet at McCarter Theatre at 2 and 7 p.m. Check arballet.org for additional dates and times.

ANNUAL TREE LIGHT-

ING: At Palmer Square; Ice carving at 2:30 p.m., followed by the official tree lighting at 5 p.m. Appearances by BSTREETBAND, Princeton High School Choir, and Santa. Palmersquare.com.

A WICKED BLACK FRIDAY: By the AMC Theater at MarketFair Princeton. 12

to 2 p.m. Marketfairshoppes.com/events.

ARTIST WINTER CHALET POP-UP SHOP: In Palmer Square. Featuring Flore Organic Botanics; Ceramar, Dirtsa Studio, and Emily Tabachnick Pottery. Through December 1. Palmersquare.com.

HOLIDAY WINE TRAIL WEEKEND: At Unionville Vineyards. 12 to 5 p.m. through December 1. Unionvillevineyards.com.

“THE BEST TIME OF THE YEAR – Music and Memories of Christmas”: At Kelsey Theatre, Mercer County Community College, 7 p.m. Check kelsey.mccc. edu for additional dates and times.

Saturday, November 30

SCREENING OF A CHRISTMAS STORY: At the Princeton Garden Theatre, 10 a.m. Princetongardentheatre.org.

THANKSGIVNG STORYTIME & PEANUTS PARTY: At the Lawrence Headquarters Library Branch, 11 a.m. Mcl.org/ branches/Lawrence.

STROLLING ENTERTAINMENT: Courtney’s Carolers stroll throughout Palmer Square from 12 to 2 p.m. Palmersquare.com.

OFF THE WALL HOLIDAY MARKET: With the West Windsor Arts Council. Thanksgiving Weekend hours 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Westwindsorarts.org.

ARTISAN HOLIDAY MARKET: At Grounds For Sculpture. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Groundsforsculpture.org.

Sunday, December 1

STROLLING ENTERTAINMENT: Harmonics Quartet strolls throughout Palmer Square from 12 to 2 p.m. Palmersquare.com.

ARTISAN HOLIDAY MARKET: At Grounds For Sculpture. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Groundsforsculpture.org.

HOLIDAY HOPS & MISTLETOE MARKET: At Riverhorse Brewing Company, Ewing. 12 to 4 p.m. Riverhorse.com.

Monday, December 2

HOLIDAY WREATH MAKING WORKSHOP:

At Morven Museum & Garden, 1 p.m. Check morven. org for additional dates and times.

PET PHOTOS WITH SANTA: At MarketFair Princeton. Also December 9 and 16, 4 to 7 p.m. Marketfairshoppes. com/events.

Tuesday, December 3

HOLIDAY GIFT BOUTIQUE: Lunch & Shop Til You Drop. At the Greenwood House, Ewing. 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Greenwoodhouse.org.

HOLIDAY SHOPPING PARTY: At J. McLaughlin. 3 to 6 p.m.

Wednesday, December 4

2ND ANNUAL SIP & SHOP MARKET: At The

Watershed Institute, Pennington. 6 to 9 p.m. Thewatershed.org.

COCOA AND CRAFTS: With Cindy-Lou Who at MarketFair Princeton. 5 to 5:30 p.m. and 6 to 6:30 p.m. Marketfairshoppes.com/ events.

CRAFT KIT PICKUP: For the Watershed Institute’s Natural Holiday Delights & Drinks, held online December 6. Pickups also on December 5 and 6 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thewatershed.org.

Thursday, December 5

HOLIDAY JAM: Bring your toy donations and enjoy performances by Princeton University a capella groups. On the Green at Palmer Square. 5 to 7 p.m. Palmersquare.com.

ARTIST WINTER CHALET POP-UP SHOP: In Palmer Square. Featuring Red Sean, lucid ladybug, D. Star Design, and Fiona C. Studios. Through December 8. Palmersquare.com.

Friday, December 6

VIRTUAL CRAFING SESSION & HAPPY HOUR: Natural Holiday Delights and Drinks on Zoom with the Watershed Institute. 7 p.m. Thewatershed.org.

’TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS : At Kelsey Theatre, Mercer County Community College. 7 p.m. Check kelsey.mccc. edu for additional dates and times.

Saturday, December 7

HOLIDAY BAZAAR: At Stockton Market, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stocktonmarket.com.

SCREENING OF THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL: At the Princeton Garden Theatre, 10 .am. Princetongardentheatre.org.

PHOTOS WITH SANTA: At Homestead Princeton. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Homesteadprinceton.com.

LIVE HOLIDAY MUSIC: At Homestead Princeton, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Homesteadprinceton.com.

THE NUTCRACKER: Performed by Princeton Youth Ballet. At Princeton High School. 4 pm. Princeton youthballet.org.

A CHANTICLEER

CHRISTMAS: With Princeton University Concerts, 7:30 p.m. Concerts.princeton.edu.

STROLLING ENTERTAINMENT: Courtney’s Carolers stroll throughout Palmer Square from 12 to 2 p.m. Palmersquare.com.

OFF THE WALL HOLIDAY MARKET: With the West Windsor Arts Council. Saturday and Sunday 12:30 to 5 p.m. Westwindsorarts.org.

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR AND LUNCHEON: At St. Matthews Episcopal Church, Pennington. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stmatthewspennington.org.

Sunday, December 8

SENSORY-FRIENDLY SANTA EXPERIENCE: At MarketFair Princeton, 9:30

to 10:30 a.m. Marketfairshoppes.com/events.

THE NUTCRACKER: Performed by Dance Connection. At Hillsborough High School. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Danceconnectionnj.com. THE NUTCRACKER: Performed by Princeton Youth Ballet. At Princeton High School. 12 and 4 pm. Princetonyouthballet.org.

SCREENING OF IT HAPPENED ON 5TH AVENUE: At the Princeton Garden Theatre, 1 p.m. Princetongardentheatre.org.

HOLIDAY HARMONIES: With Princeton Boychoir at Unitarian Universalist Church at Washington Crossing, Titusville. 4:30 p.m. Westrickmusic.org.

DO-RE-MEET: LGBTQIA+ & Allies Mingle and A Chanticleer Christmas Concert. MacLean House, Nassau Street, Princeton. 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Concerts. princeton.edu.

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON — TUBACHRISTMAS: At MarketFair Princeton. 2 to 3 p.m. Marketfairshoppes.com/events.

STROLLING ENTERTAINMENT: Tiger Tones stroll throughout Palmer Square from 12 to 2 p.m. Palmersquare.com.

’TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS: At the Kelsey Theatre, Mercer County Community College. 1 and 4 p.m. Kelsey.mccc.edu.

Vaseful Flowers & Gifts 305 Witherspoon St. Princeton, NJ 08542 (609) 751-9800 www.vasefulprinceton.com a Princeton tradition!

For the best and freshest flowers in Princeton, Vaseful has exactly what you’re looking for! Check out our wide selection of flower arrangements to make your next occasion memorable.

Holiday Happenings | TOWN

Tuesday, December 10

PERFORMANCE OF A CHRISTMAS CAROL : At McCarter Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Check mccarter.org for additional dates and times.

Wednesday, December 11

SHOP MORNING: Enjoy coffee, sweet treats from Lillipies, and a cozy shopping experience. At Homestead Princeton. Homesteadprinceton.com.

CAROLS OF MANY NATIONS: The Chapel Choir of Princeton Theological Seminary. 3:30 p.m. Ptsem.edu.

FESTIVAL OF TREES AFTER HOURS: At Morven Museum & Garden, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Morven.org.

SCREENING OF IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: At the Princeton Garden Theatre, 7 p.m. Princetongarden theatre.org.

COCOA AND CRAFTS: With The Frost Fairy at MarketFair Princeton. 5 to 5:30 p.m. and 6 to 6:30 p.m. Marketfairshoppes.com/events.

Thursday, December 12

ART OF HOLIDAY MAGIC WITH FRANCISCO IRALA: Francisco will share expert tips on decorating with flair and creativity, all while you enjoy festive food and drinks. At the Arts Council of Princeton. 6 to 7:30 p.m. Artscouncilof princeton.org.

ARTIST WINTER CHALET POP-UP SHOP: In Palmer Square. Featuring OverSea Creations, Redwood Durable, little b natural organics, and Knitworked. Through December 15. Palmersquare.com.

Friday, December 13

THE NUTCRACKER: Performed by Dane Connection. At 7 p.m. Visit kelsey.mccc.edu for other dates and times.

AN EVENING OF READINGS & CAROLS: Westminster Choir College. 8 to 10 p.m. Rider.edu.

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON: Nassau Brass at MarketFair Princeton. 5 to 7 Marketfairshoppes.com/events.

Saturday, December 14

SCREENING OF THE POLAR EXPRESS: At the Princeton Garden Theatre, 10 a.m. Princetongarden theatre.org.

THE NUTCRACKER : Performed by American Repertory Ballet at the Trenton War Memorial. 1 p.m. Check arbellet.org for additional dates and times.

HOLIDAY POPS: Princeton Symphony Orchestra. 3 p.m. Princetonsymphony.org.

“SING OUT, MY SOUL”: Voices Chorale NJ and the Trenton Children’s Chorus. At Trinity Church, Princeton. 4 p.m. Voiceschoralenj.org.

MERRY AND BRIGHT AFTER HOURS: Holiday Fun At Crossing Vineyards, Crossing Vineyards and Winery. 6 to 9 p.m. Crossingvineyards.com.

HOLIDAY MAKERS MARKET: At MarketFair Princeton. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Marketfairshoppes.com/events.

STROLLING ENTERTAINMENT: New Jersey Harmony Chorus strolls throughout Palmer Square from 12 to 2 p.m. Palmersquare.com.

PRINCETON HOLIDAY TROLLEY TOUR: With

Princeton Tour Company. Reserve tours between 10 a.m. and 5 pm. Princetontourcompany.com.

OFF THE WALL HOLIDAY MARKET: With the West Windsor Arts Council. Saturday and Sunday 12:30 to 5 p.m. Westwindsorarts.org.

CHRISTMAS ON THE FARM: At Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead Museum, Lambertville. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Also Sunday December 15. Holcombejimison.org.

WREATH WORKSHOP: At Unionville Vineyards. 12:30 and 3 p.m. Also December 15. Unionvillevineyards.com.

HOLIDAY DINNER: Catered by Blawenburg Bistro in the Historic Farmhouse at Unionville Vineyards. 6:30 p.m. Unionvillevineyards.com.

Saturday, December 14

WHITE CHRISTMAS MOVIE SING-ALONG: At Kelsey Theatre at Mercer County Community College, 8 p.m. Kelsey.mccc.edu.

Sunday, December 15

HOLIDAY MAKERS MARKET: At MarketFair Princeton. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Marketfairshoppes.com/events.

STROLLING ENTERTAINMENT: New Jersey Harmony Chorus strolls throughout

Palmer Square from 12 to 2 p.m. Palmersquare.com.

Monday, December 16

THE BRADENBURG CONCERTOS: At Richardson Auditorium. 7:30 p.m. Mccarter.org.

Wednesday, December 18

ANNUAL MENORAH LIGHTING: On the patio of the Nassau Inn on Palmer Square. 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Palmersquare.com.

COCOA AND CRAFTS: With Holiday Princess Belle at MarketFair Princeton. 5 to 5:30 p.m. and 6 to 6:30 p.m. Marketfairshoppes.com/events.

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON: Westrick Music Academy at MarketFair Princeton. 5:30 – 8 pm. Marketfairshoppes.com/events.

SCREENING OF HOME

ALONE: At the Princeton Garden Theatre, 7 p.m. Princetongardentheatre.org.

Thursday, December 19

COOK TALKS: Holiday Cookie Decorating. At the Lawrence Branch Library. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Mcl.org/branches.

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON: Westrick Music Academy at MarketFair Princeton. 5:30 to 8 p.m. Marketfairshoppes.com/events.

ARTIST WINTER CHALET POP-UP SHOP: In Palmer Square. Featuring Jean

Ceramics, Yardsale Press, Joan Romone, and Vintage College Gifts. Through December 22. Palmersquare.com

Friday, December 20

CAROLING WITH THE CHOIRS: Westrick Music Academy, along Nassau and Stockton streets. 5:30 to 10 p.m. Westrickmusic.org.

A NIGHT OUT AT THE MUSEUM: At Morven Museum & Garden. 5:30 to 7 p.m. Morven. org.

THE NUTCRACKER: American Repertory Ballet at the State Theatre New Jersey, New Brunswick. 7:30 p.m. Check arballet. org for additional dates and times.

SCREENING OF DIE HARD: At the Princeton Garden Theatre, 9:45 p.m. Princetongardentheatre.org.

Saturday, December 21

SCREENING OF THE GRINCH: At the Princeton Garden Theatre, 10 a.m. Princetongardentheatre.org.

HOLIDAY MAKERS MARKET: At MarketFair Princeton. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Marketfairshoppes.com/events.

STROLLING ENTERTAINMENT: Spiced Punch strolls throughout Palmer Square from 12 to 2 p.m. Palmersquare.com.

OFF THE WALL HOLIDAY MARKET: With the West Windsor Arts Council. 12:30 to 5 p.m. Westwindsorarts.org.

THE KELSEY HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA (Remixed): By Off-Centre Stages at Kelsey Theatre at Mercer County Community College. 1 p.m. Check kelsey.mccc.edu for additional dates and times.

Sunday, December 22

HOLIDAY MAKERS MARKET: At MarketFair Princeton. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Marketfairshoppes.com/events.

STROLLING ENTERTAINMENT: New Jersey Harmony Chorus strolls throughout Palmer Square from 12 to 2 p.m. Palmersquare.com.

SCREENING OF IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: At the Princeton Garden Theatre, 1 p.m. Princetongardentheatre.org.

Tuesday, December 24

SCREENING OF RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: At the Princeton Garden Theatre, 11 a.m. Princeton gardentheatre.org.

Wednesday, December 25

WASHINGTON’S DELAWARE CROSSSING REENACTMENT: 12 to 3 p.m. Washingtoncrossinghistoricpark.org.

Chorus, Chunhe Zhang, Conductor

Red Reminds Me. . .

Tuesday, December 3, 7 p.m. | Open to the public day with(out) art 2024 film screening & discussion

Join Princeton University Art Museum and Princeton Garden Theatre for a screening of Red Reminds Me. . . . This program of seven videos reflects on the emotional spectrum of living with HIV today. Following the screening, join film director David Oscar Harvey and Museum Director James Steward for a discussion of Harvey’s video Ambivalence: On HIV & Luck

Princeton Garden Theatre

“Flora, Fauna, and Water” At Gourgaud Gallery

The Cranbury Arts Council and the Gourgaud Gallery will present this year’s Open Call exhibit, “Flora, Fauna, and Water,” December 4 through December 27. An opening reception is on Sunday, December 8 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The show features works from a number of artists in two-dimensional mediums. Open Call has been run by Linda Gilbert, chairperson of the Gourgaud Gallery, for a number of years.

Twenty percent of the sales will be donated to the Cranbury Arts Council, which provides arts-oriented programs, workshops, and performances aimed at enriching the cultural experiences of the community

This year’s exhibit will also feature a special fundraiser table, where all proceeds will be donated to the Cranbury Arts Council. Items will include small paintings, arts and crafts, and related Items such as note cards, costume jewelry, and more. Checks for the donated items should be made to the Cranbury Arts Council.

The Gourgaud Gallery is located in Town Hall, 23-A North Main Street, Cranbury. It is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, visit cranburyartscouncil.org.

“Mostly Small Works” Group Exhibition at Artists’ Gallery Artists’ Gallery in Lambertville will present a gallery-wide group exhibit, “ Mostly Small Works,” December 5 through January 5.

Meet the artists at the opening reception on Saturday, December 7 from 2 to 5 p.m., and help Artists’ Gallery celebrate another great

year as they look forward to their 30th anniversary in the Lambertville art scene. The gallery is also pleased to present the work of their newest artist, Michael Berardesco, who captures the rustic charm of North Jersey’s farm scenes and landscapes.

Artists’ Gallery is located at 18 Bridge Street, in the heart of Lambertville, It is open Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. More information, visit LambertvilleArts.com.

McCarthy

Named Chief Curator

At the Zimmerli Art Museum

The Zimmerli Art Museum in New Brunswick has named Jeremiah William McCarthy as chief curator. In this new role, effective January 6, McCarthy will serve on the museum’s senior leadership team and participate in shaping its mission and vision. He will oversee the museum’s curatorial department and assume responsibility for the Museum’s scholarly and artistic program while managing the development of the Museum’s permanent collection and exhibitions.

“It’s a great honor to take on this leadership role at the Zimmerli,” said McCarthy. “The Zimmerli’s mission to use art as a tool to educate, inspire, and challenge resonates deeply with me. I am thrilled to lead and empower the curatorial team to advance an experimental program that is diverse, accessible, and academically rigorous.”

Prior to the Zimmerli, McCarthy served as chief curator at the Westmoreland Museum of American Art in Greensburg, Pa. His most recent exhibition, “Anila Quayyum Agha: Interwoven,” on view through January 5, will travel to three museums following the

Westmoreland’s presentation. Under his leadership, The Westmoreland transformed its permanent collection galleries into dynamic, rotating displays and diversified its holdings of American artists through strategic acquisitions by Berenice Abbott, Anila Quayyum Agha, Charles Atlas, Isabel Bishop, Elizabeth Catlett, Nick Cave, Dorothy Dehner, Milt Hinton, Toshiko Takaezu, and Walasse Ting, among others.

“Jeremiah brings to the role of chief curator an extraordinary range of talents. His brilliance as an exhibition maker is matched by his broad scholarly knowledge across historical and contemporary art,” said Maura Reilly, director of the Zimmerli Art Museum. “His expertise in American art and passion for audience development will be invaluable to us. I am thrilled to partner with him on the artistic vision for the Zimmerli’s future.”

Previously, McCarthy has worked in the curatorial and education departments of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, and he was an inaugural teaching fellow at The Frick Collection, New York. Alongside his curatorial work, he has taught in museums extensively and as a visiting lecturer in art history at The City College of New York. He has also mentored as a supervisor in the Diversity in Arts Leadership program administered by Americans for the Arts.

The Zimmerli Art Museum is located at 71 Hamilton Street (at George Street) on the College Avenue Campus of Rutgers University in New Brunswick. Admission is free. For more information, visit zimmerli. rutgers.edu.

“AUTUMN IN CRANBURY”: This work by Linda Gilbert is featured in “Flora, Fauna, and Water,” on view December 4 through December 27 at the Gourgaud Gallery in Cranbury. An opening

Mariana Iacono and Juan De La Mar, El VIH se enamoró de mi (HIV Fell in Love with Me), 2024. Commissioned by Visual AIDS for Red Reminds Me. . .

“CAUGHT IN THE LIGHT”: This acrylic painting by Michael Berardesco is featured in “Mostly Small Works,” on view December 5 through January 5 at Artists’ Gallery in Lambertville.

“WINTER CHILL”: This watercolor work by Beatrice Bork is part of “Mostly Small Works,” on view December 5 through January 5 at Artists’ Gallery in Lambertville. An opening reception is on Saturday, December 7 from 2 to 5 p.m.

AT ACP: The Arts Council of Princeton will host an artist interview and book signing with artist-author Patrick McDonnell on Saturday, November 30 from 3 to 4 p.m.

Arts Council to Host Event

With Patrick McDonnell

The Arts Council of Princeton (ACP) will host an artist interview with Patrick McDonnell on Saturday, November 30 from 3 to 4 p.m. McDonnell — a Princeton resident — is the creator of the worldwide syndicated comic strip, MUTTS ; a New York Times bestselling and Caldecott Honor-winning children’s book author, painter, and award-winning playwright. His original works are on view at the Arts Council through December 7.

The paintings in his Taplin Gallery exhibition — created with acrylic latex, oil stick, ink, and collage — are a continuation of the story of self-discovery told in his graphic novel, The Super Hero’s Journey, created for Marvel and Abrams Books.

“All art is a form of meditation, a looking inward to find the real you, the secret identity of the super hero in us all,” said McDonnell. “I’ve always loved the raw beauty and kinetic energy of both comic art and abstract expressionism. My art heroes include Schulz, Herriman, and Kirby, along with de Kooning, Twombly, and Basquiat.”

The paintings in this exhibition celebrate a surprising symbiotic interplay of these two dynamic art forms. McDonnell explores and expands on the spiritual and political undertones of the early Marvel super hero comics of his youth: the interplay between gods and man and the divisiveness of hero versus hero. “This work is a dance of nostalgic simplicity and moral innocence trying to come to terms with today’s unprecedented fear of a dystopian future with hope for a better tomorrow,” he said.

On view in ACP’s Lower Level Gallery is “Breaking the Chain: The Guard Dog Story,” a special exhibition of hand-colored prints with remarque from the MUTTS comic strip and McDonnell’s new book of the same name, centering on the plight of tethered dogs. A portion of the proceeds from book sales, available at the November 30 event, will benefit Skillman’s SAVE: A Friend to Homeless Animals, a nonprofit shelter dedicated to protecting the health and welfare of homeless companion animals in the greater Princeton area and beyond.

The Arts Council of Princeton is at 102 Witherspoon Street. For more information, visit artscouncilofprinceton.org or call (609) 924-8777.

“Perspectives on Preservation”

Photo Exhibit Open House

On Saturday, December 7 and Sunday, December 8, join Friends Of Princeton Open Space (FOPOS) between 12 and 4 p.m. for a Holiday Open House at Mountain Lakes House, 57 Mountain Avenue.

View the FOPOS annual “Perspectives on Preservation Photo Exhibition,” enjoy complimentary refreshments, and stroll around the Christmas tree. Free. RSVP requested at fopos. org/events-programs.

“Rhythms of the Land” At Hutchins Galleries

“Rhythms of the Land,” an exhibition of paintings, forest compositions, leaf sculptures, cross sections of trees, and wildlife reliefs by Susan Hoenig is on view December 5 through January 25 in the Hutchins Galleries at the Lawrenceville school on Route 206. An opening reception is on Friday,

December 6 at 6:30 p.m.

According to the artist, “ The land upon which we gather is part of the traditional territory of the Lenape, called ‘Lenapehoking.’

The Lenape People lived in harmony with the land for thousands of years. Paintings, forest compositions, leaf sculptures, cross sections of trees, and wildlife reliefs are part of my ecological practice. I connect Earth and art to make visible the relationship between habitat, plant and animal life. My artwork explores the impact of ecological issues. ‘Rhythms of the Land’ engages the viewer to see the relationship between humans and their environment that sustains them.

“In 2020, I was artist-inresidence at the Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve in Princeton where I collaborated with Friends of Princeton Open Space to draw attention to the value and beauty of native trees. I created an American Chestnut Leaf Sculpture alongside newly planted American Chestnut saplings.”

The Wildlife Reliefs are sculptural wall hangings painted on burlap. The colors and geometric design are unique in style, having evolved from naturalistic forms that are at the essence of each relief.

“Life that surrounds us can teach valuable lessons in our interactions with the land, air, water, and wildlife,” said Hoenig. “In my art, I create awareness of this special vibrant living biosphere we call Earth, filled with shifting movement and the rhythms of nature. The balance of these rhythms is crucial for the survival and progression of life.

The Hutchins Galleries are located within The Hutchins Center, adjacent to the Gruss Center of Art and Design at the Lawrenceville School. The main entrance for the Hutchins Galleries is at the rear of the building, and can be accessed during viewing hours Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed 12-1 p.m.) and Saturday 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Area Exhibits

Art@Bainbridge, 158 Nassau Street, has “Heléne Aylon: Undercurrent” through February 2. Artmuseum.princeton.edu. Artists’ Gallery, 18 Bridge Street, Lambertville, has “Chromatic Wanderings” through December 1. Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Lambertvillearts.com.

Art on Hulfish, 11 Hulfish Street, has “Under a Southern Star: Identity and Environment in Australian Photography” through January 5. Artmuseum. princeton.edu.

Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon Street, has “The Super Hero’s Journey” in the Taplin Gallery and “Breaking the Chain: The Guard Dog Story” in the Lower Level Gallery through December 7. Artscouncilofprinceton.org.

David Scott Gallery, 253 Nassau Street, has “Available Light,” a collection of paintings by New York architect and artist Mark Oliver, through December 31. Davidscottfineart@gmail.com.

Dohm Alley, next to 100 Nassau Street, has the Princeton Einstein Museum’s “Einstein’s “Attraction to Magnetism,” open 24/7 through November 30. princeton einsteinmuseum.org.

Ficus Bon Vivant, 235 Nassau Street, has “Capture the Rhythm” through January 12. Ficusbv.com.

Gourgaud Gallery, 23-A North Main Street, Cranbury, has “Flora, Fauna, and Water” December 4 through December 27. An opening reception is on December 8 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Cranburyartscouncil.org.

Green Building Center, 67 Bridge Street, Lambertville, has an art show by the MUGA Group through December 31. Greenbuildingcenter.com.

Grounds For Sculpture, 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton, has “That’s Worth Celebrating: The Life and Work of the Johnson Family” through the end of 2024, among other exhibits. Groundsforsculpture.org.

Historical Society of Princeton, Updike Farmstead, 354 Quaker Road, has “Princeton Reflected: Stories from HSP’s Collection” and “Einstein Salon and Innovator’s Gallery.” Museum hours are Thursday through Sunday, 12 to 4 p.m. Princetonhistory.org

Mercer Museum, 84 South Pine Street, Doylestown, Pa., has “The Doan Gang: Outlaws of the Revolution” through December 31, 2026. Mercermuseum.org.

Michener Art Museum, 138 South Pine Street, Doylestown, Pa., has “Monuments and Myths: The American Sculptors Augustus Saint-Gaudens and Daniel Chester French” through January 5 and “Charlotte Schatz: Industrial Strength” through March 9. Michenerartmuseum.org

Milberg Gallery, Princeton University Library, has “Monsters & Machines: Caricature, Visual Satire, and the Twentieth-Century Bestiary” through December 8. Library.princeton.edu/ monstersandmachines.

Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street, has “Morven Revealed: Untold Stories from New Jersey’s Most Historic Home,” through March 2. Morven.org.

Russell Marks Gallery at Princeton Windrows, 2000 Windrow Drive, has “Learning Curves: Works from the Beginning Drawing Classes” through December 31.

Silva Gallery of Art at the Pennington School, 112 West Delaware Avenue, Pennington, has “Alia Bensliman: From North Africa to North America” through December 13. Silvagallery@ penningtonschool.org.

Small World Coffee, 14 Witherspoon Street, has “Flore Organic Botanics” through

December 3. Acrylic canvases by Bhumika Raghuvanshi are at the 254 Nassau Street location through December 3. Smallworldcoffee.com. Trenton City Museum at Ellarslie, Cadwalader Park, Trenton, has “Mercer County Photography 2024” through December 1. Ellarslie.org.

West Windsor Arts, 952 Alexander Road, West Windsor, has “Off the Wall Affordable Art Show” Through December 21. Westwindsorarts.org.

Zimmerli Art Museum at Rutgers, 71 George Street, New Brunswick, has “Michelle V. Agins: Storyteller” through December 8 and “Smoke & Mirrors” through December 22. Zimmerli.rutgers.edu.

After Noon

Thursdays at 12:30pm

MCDONNELL

“EMERALD ASH BORER GALLERIES ON WHITE ASH”: This work by Susan Hoenig is featured in “Rhythms of the Land,” on view December 5 through January 25 in the Hutchins Galleries at the Lawrenceville school.

TOWN TOPICS | Mark Your Calendar

Wednesday, November 27

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Leighton Listens. Councilman Leighton Newlin is available to discuss current events with members of the public at Maman Princeton, 43 Hulfish Street.

Thursday, November 28

9 a.m.: 14th Annual Hopewell Valley 5K Turkey Trot , at Rosedale Park, Pennington. Fundraiser for the Hopewell Valley Youth Wrestling and High School Wrestling Team. Hopewellturkeytrot.org.

10-11:30 a.m .: Thanksgiving Day Walk sponsored by Friends of Princeton Nursery Lands. Meet at Mapleton Preserve, 145 Mapleton Road, Kingston. Free 1.5-mile walk through fields, looking for things that turkeys might eat for dinner. Fpnl.org.

Friday, November 29

10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Covered Bridge Artisans Fall Studio Tour, in nine professional artists’ studios in Lambertville, Stockton,

Sergeantsville, and New Hope, Pa., areas; and the Sandy Ridge Church. Paintings, glass, jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, woodworking, quilts, and more. CoveredBridgeArtisans.com.

12-5 p.m.: Holiday Wine Trail Weekend at Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road. Wine, fire pits, hot chocolate, barnyard animals, Christmas trees, and more. Terhuneorchards. com.

2 and 7 p.m .: American Repertory Ballet presents The Nutcracker at McCarter Theatre, 91 University Place. Mccarter.org.

2:30-6 p.m .: A nnual Tree Lighting on Palmer Square. Festivities begin with Ice Sculpture Philly carving a baby grand piano out of ice, followed with performances by the Flying Ivories, The BStreetband, and Princeton High School Choir. Palmersquare.com.

7 p.m .: The Best Time of the Year, musical for the whole family by the MTM Players at Kelsey Theatre, Mercer County

this holiday season, celebrate with

giftssimple

New Jersey Artisan Foods

Organic Chocolates & Truffles

Holiday Essential Oil Gift Packs

Whole Earth Holiday Baked Goods

All-Natural Bath & Body Care Products

Maine Balsam Mini Pillows & Neck Pillows

Whole Earth Gift Cards • Gift Card Coin Purses

Natural Baby Care Products • Gemstone Bracelets

Frankincense & Myrrh Resins for Burning

Dish Towels • Swedish Dishcloths

Catnip Fish-shaped Sachets • Quartz Tea Light Holders

Pure Beeswax Candles • Essential Oil Reed Diffusers

Lavender and Rose Bath Salts (in glass jars)

Recycled Wrapping Paper & Gift Bags

Handmade Ornaments • Nuts & Dried Fruits

Organic Teas & Coffees • Hanukkah Soaps

Mini Scented Soaps & Lip Balms

Soapstone Essential Oil Diffusers

Wooden & Soapstone Soap Dishes

Tree-free Journals • Recycled Paper Notebooks

Eye Pillows: Lavender, Eucalyptus

Hanukkah Candles in Beeswax & Palm Wax

Love Project Handmade Beaded Bracelets

New! from Seeds to Sew in Hopewell

Fabric Wrapping Bags

Maasai Beaded Earrings

Soapstone Ornaments

supporting programs to empower women and educate girls

Community College, West Windsor. Music, dance, projections, reception with Santa, treats. $20-$22. Kelseytheatre.org.

Saturday, November 30

10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Covered Bridge Artisans Fall Studio Tour, in nine professional artists’ studios in Lambertville, Stockton, Sergeantsville, and New Hope, Pa., areas; and the Sandy Ridge Church. Paintings, glass, jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, woodworking, quilts, and more. CoveredBridgeArtisans.com.

10-11:30 a.m .: Tai Chi lessons by Todd’s Tai Chi Group at Plainsboro Public Library, 9 Van Doren Street, Plainsboro. Beginners through intermediate. For more information contact gedenfield@aol.com.

12-2 p.m.: Strolling Entertainment and Santa on Palmer Square. Palmersquare.com.

12-5 p.m.: Winery Weekend Music Series at Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road. Wine, light fare,

and music from 1-4 p.m. by Brian Bortnick. Terhuneorchards.com.

1 and 6 p.m.: American Repertory Ballet presents The Nutcracker at McCarter Theatre, 91 University Place. Mccarter.org. 1 and 4 p.m.: The Best Time of the Year, musical for the whole family by the MTM Players at Kelsey Theatre, Mercer County Community College, West Windsor. Music, dance, projections, reception with Santa, treats. $20-$22. Kelseytheatre.org.

3-4 p.m.: Artist interview and book signing with Patrick McDonnell , creator of the comic strip MUTTS, at the Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon Street. Artscouncilofprinceton.org.

Sunday, December 1

10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Covered Bridge Artisans Fall Studio Tour, in nine professional artists’ studios in Lambertville, Stockton, Sergeantsville, and New Hope, Pa., areas; and the Sandy Ridge Church. Paintings, glass, jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, woodworking, quilts, and more. CoveredBridgeArtisans.com.

12-2 p.m.: Strolling Entertainment and Santa on Palmer Square. Palmersquare.com.

12-5 p.m.: Holiday Wine Trail Weekend at Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road. Wine, fire pits, hot chocolate, barnyard animals, Christmas trees, and more. Music by Jerry Steele from 1-4 p.m. Terhuneorchards.com.

1 and 4 p.m.: The Best Time of the Year, musical for the whole family by the MTM Players at Kelsey Theatre, Mercer County Community College, West Windsor. Music, dance, projections, reception with Santa, treats. $20-$22. Kelseytheatre.org.

3 p.m .: Disability activist Doug McCullough discusses his new book, A

Celebrating 10 years as a nonprofit! CONTINUING

Starting November 29th

events Friday 11/29

www.princetongarden.org 160 Nassau St. -

NOVEMBERDECEMBER

Billion People in the Shadows: The Ultimate 1-hour Guide to Understanding Disability with Princeton Tech Meetup co-founder Chris Boraski at Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street. Princetonlibrary.org.

Monday, December 2

Recycling

4:30 p.m .: “Custom of the Coast ,” a workshop of a new small-scale opera, is presented by the Lewis Center for the Arts’ Princeton Atelier in the Berlind Rehearsal Room, McCarter Theatre, 91 University Place. Free. Arts. princeton.edu.

7 p.m .: Continuing Conversations on Race presents Michele TuckPonder, whose topic is “Where Have All the Black Women Gone?” via Zoom. To register, visit Princetonlibrary.org.

Tuesday, December 3

9-11 a.m.: “Branding + Biotech: a Panel Discussion ,” at Princeton Innovation Center BioLabs, 303A College Road East. Princetonbiolabs.com .

6 p.m.: Artists Karen Tuveson and Chandini Powar discuss their work and answer questions at the opening of their exhibit at Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street. Princetonlibrary.org

7:30 p.m.: Courtney Stephens presents Terra Femme , sponsored by the Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Visual Arts at Princeton University’s James Stewart Film Theater, 185 Nassau Street. Live cinema that takes the form of a narrated travelogue. Free. Arts. princeton.edu.

Wednesday, December 4

6-9 p.m.: The Watershed Institute hosts the Sip & Shop Holiday Market , offering unique items from local artisans. Free. 31 Titus Mill Road, Pennington.

6:30 p.m.: Barry Singer of the Historical Society of Princeton presents a virtual talk , “Princeton and the American Revolution: The Ten Crucial Days,” sponsored by Mercer County Library System. Visit mcl. org to receive a link.

7 p.m.: “Sustainable Minds: The State of Clean Energy .” Experts discuss the situation in New Jersey at Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street. Princetonlibrary.org.

7:30 p.m.: Candlelight Service of Lessons and Carols at Princeton University Chapel, featuring the Chapel Choir and University a cappella groups. Chapel. princeton.edu.

Thursday, December 5

4 p.m.: Journalist Ambreen Ali , founder of the local news outlet Central Desi, speaks in the Newsroom of Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street. Princetonlibrary.org.

5-7 p.m.: Holiday Jam and Toy Drive , held with Princeton University, at Palmer Square. Palmersquare.com.

7:30 p.m.: “An Evening with Chevy Chase and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation ,” at State Theatre New Jersey, 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. $45-$105. Stnj.org.

Friday, December 6

4:30 p.m.: Princeton University’s Fund for Irish Studies presents a conversation with Ireland’s Abbey Theatre , at the James Stewart Film Theater, 185 Nassau Street. Free. Arts. princeton.edu

6-8 p.m. Opening reception for the annual Perspectives on Preservation Photography Exhibit , sponsored by Friends of Princeton Open Space, at Mountain Lakes House, 57 Mountain Avenue. With wine, light bites, and live music by guitarist Ilan Eisenzweig. RSVP to fopos.org.

7:30 p.m .: “The Amish Project” by Jessica Dickey, presented by the Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Theater and Music Theater, at the Wallace Theater, Lewis Arts Complex, Princeton University. Explores the aftermath of the 2006 shooting at an Amish schoolhouse. Free. Arts.princeton. edu.

Saturday, December 7

10-11:30 a.m.: Tai Chi lessons by Todd’s Tai Chi Group at Plainsboro Public Library, 9 Van Doren Street, Plainsboro. Beginners through intermediate. For more information contact gedenfield @aol.com

10 a.m.-12 p.m.: Guided Nature Walk by Anna Corichi of Friends of Princeton Open Space, at the Billy Johnson Mountain Lakes Preserve, 57 Mountain Avenue. Free. Fopos. org/events-programs. Registration required.

12-2 p.m.: Strolling Entertainment and Santa on Palmer Square. Palmersquare.com.

12-4 p.m.: Friends of Princeton Open Space holds a Holiday Open House at Mountain Lakes House, 57 Mountain Avenue. The Perspectives on Preservation Photography Exhibit is on view; refreshments and holiday treats. Free. Fopos.org.

3 p.m .: Science Saturday in the STEAM Studio of Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street. Princeton University scientists present hands-on activities for students in grades 5-8. Princetonlibrary.org.

4 p.m .: Princeton Youth Ballet presents The Nutcracker at Princeton High School Performing Arts Center. Pyb.booktix.com. 7:30 p.m .: Chanticleer presents “A Chanticleer Christmas” at Princeton University Chapel. Puc. princeton.edu.

FiNNBAR, Formerly the Historic Frenchtown Inn, Offers Array of Dining and Beverage Options

FiNNBAR, the very successful Frenchtown restaurant at 7 Bridge Street, is the result of the vision of a remarkable team of talented individuals who have transformed the historic Frenchtown Inn into a modern, vibrant dining opportunity.

IT’S NEW To Us

With its new name, alluding to that of its predecessor, it offers both a lively and relaxed atmosphere, attentive and knowledgeable service, and high-quality Italian and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. In addition, an important focus is its welcoming community theme.

“FiNNBAR strives to create a place where all people feel comfortable and safe in an environment that supports mutual respect, fosters professional and personal fulfillment, and rejects harassment, intimidation, and hate. We offer a place that is open, accepting, and kind,” notes Chef/owner Cal Peternell.

Originally opened in 1838, the Frenchtown Inn experienced a variety of transformations. Once known as the Lower Hotel, the Railroad House, and The Warford House, it also served as a railroad and stagecoach stop, a grocery store, ice cream parlor, and speakeasy, among other transfigurations. Most recently it was an inn and restaurant before closing three years ago.

Vision and Creativity

It reopened as FiNNBAR in February of 2024, and encompasses the vision and creativity of its four owners and partners, Jill Kearney, Cal Peternell, Antoinette Marie Johnson, and Erik Oberholtzer.

“My wish was two-fold: to create a warm welcoming gathering place that serves delicious real food, and to use this platform as a way to support Studio Route 29 in Frenchtown, a nonprofit that is fostering community, creativity, and kindness just a few blocks away,” says Kearney, who is also the founder of Frenchtown’s ArtYard, a center for art exhibition and performance.

Studio Route 29 is “a progressive art studio, which means we are a studio that centers the creative practices and perspectives of

people with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” she says.

“Seventy percent of the net profits for FiNNBAR go toward Studio Route 29,” adds Peternell. Artwork by the studio artists is displayed prominently throughout the restaurant.

The restaurant’s additional partners are two highly experienced restaurant entrepreneurs, who now live in Princeton. Oberholtzer and Johnson bring a wealth of experience to hospitality projects with an emphasis on supporting farmers, equitable workforce development, and sustainable businesses that help local communities thrive.

Oberholtzer is one of the founding partners of Tender Greens in Los Angeles, a successful and highly respected pioneer in the cultivation of partnerships between local farmers and chefs.

Johnson is the founder of Cohere, a creative agency specializing in cohesive branding and storytelling in food, hospitality, and real estate. With offices in New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and a planned new Miami location, Cohere is focused on supporting and creating independent brands for the establishments they represent.

Connected Parts

As a creative branding agency, Cohere strives to create an image for the establishment, explains Johnson. “Our company reflects cohesiveness. We focus on hospitality, including restaurants and hotels. We are coordinators of the project, and help with the creative end, websites, photography, etc. We include designers, storytellers, content creators to increase the ‘cohesion’ or connected parts to the vision of the project.”

She adds that Cohere has had projects in Princeton, including The Meeting House and Sakrid Coffee Roasters.

“We also notice that there is more interest in small towns today, and our specialty is transforming older, vintage establishments with a new look,” she says.

In the case of FiNNBAR, she points out that the riverfront structure had been renovated by architect Michael Burns and designer William Welch. One of its very popular features is a long, restored wooden bar, true to its historic era.

Dining rooms with views of the Delaware River are a

major attraction for customers, and the restaurant offers seating for 99, including outdoor dining in seasonal weather. A room for private parties is also available.

New Orleans

“This project has been especially meaningful,” continues Johnson. “It is a wonderful group of people, working as a team. And everyone can be as creative as they want to be. It is a unique environment, and the level of our investment in the local community is very special.”

The contemporary, sleek decor offers a New Orleans feel, adds Peternell. “We have honored the history of the 200-year-old building, but we liked the look of New Orleans, with the dark wood floor and lighting. And also, the color palette with neutral butter cream on the walls. Overall, we wanted the look to be a feeling of comfortable living.”

Peternell brings years of experience as a highly respected chef, who is also the author of a series of popular cookbooks. He has now returned to his New Jersey roots after years of living in Italy and California. Formerly head chef at Alice Waters’ influential Chez Panisse in Berkeley, Calif., he will oversee FiNNBAR’s seasonal produce-driven and locally sourced menu of Italian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, as well as a full bar with area beers, cider, wine, and cocktails.

“We really have excellent beverage offerings, including unusual cocktails,” he reports. “We offer high quality food, with my own recipes, and we guarantee freshness. The menu changes every day. We are very, very focused.”

“I am really loving being in the restaurant business within this community,” he says. “I very much enjoy the connection with the local farmers and learning about the seasonality of the products. I am impressed with the products we can get here. And there is the connection with the land. All this comes together.

“Also, bringing this new concept and my experiences in Berkeley to my home state of New Jersey has been very personal and exciting as my next chapter.”

EnvironmentallyFriendly

Johnson also points out FiNNBAR’s focus on environmentally-friendly practices. “Cal does a great job with composting. By his

composting methods, we save one ton from the landfills every month. This is very responsible.”

There is no question that FiNNBAR is off to a superb start. Customers are coming from all over the area, including Princeton, and many are regulars, returning again and again.

“We have had a great year,” says Peternell. “People seem to like everything on the menu and the fact that it changes every day. We are also dedicated both to quality and value, and we offer a range of prices.”

A recent menu included a variety of appetizers, featuring spicy peanuts with sesame and curry leaves; marinated olives; and radishes with anchovy butter, among other choices.

The very crispy autumn vegetable salad with mashed beets, tahini, dukkah, and dill is a real crowd pleaser, as is the cucumber, roasted radish, and chickpea salad with olives, capers, and egg.

The cauliflower soup with turmeric, scallions, ginger, and lime is another favorite.

Ricotta and greens crespelle with Noble Farm mushrooms, mizuna, and salsa verde is very popular, and the fried wild blue catfish with mashed rutabaga, Soy cabbage and salsa macha is also in demand.

Sweet Tooth

Those with a sweet tooth will not be disappointed! Choices include bittersweet

DINING OUT: “The food will be casual and beautiful, surprising, yet not unfamiliar, with options for snacking and drinks,” says Cal Peternell, chef/owner of FiNNBAR, formerly The Frenchtown Inn. “In addition, we envision this to be a community gathering place for people to relax, be together, and enjoy good dining.”

chocolate pot de créme with hazelnuts; almond cake with Bartlett pears; and apple and quince galette with whipped cream. Another specialty at the restaurant is the excellent coffee, a favorite of many FiNNBAR guests.

Indeed, a visit to FiNNBAR, with its riverfront setting in Frenchtown, can be both an excursion and delicious destination dining. The combination of the historic

charm of yesterday with the contemporary dynamic of today offers a memorable outing.

FiNNBAR is open for dinner Thursday through Monday, 4 to 9 p.m. Reservations are recommended. Sunday brunch will be available in February.

F or further information, call (908) 465-0021. Visit the website at .finnbarjersey.com.

—Jean Stratton

HISTORY TRANSFORMED: The historic Frenchtown Inn has been transformed into FiNNBAR, the new restaurant in the vintage setting at 7 Bridge Street in Frenchtown. Originally opened as an inn in 1838, the establishment has experienced many transformations over the years.

S ports

Sparked by Volker’s Sensational Senior Day Effort, Princeton Football Edges Penn 20-17 in Season Finale

John Volker was determined to keep his cool as he stood in the end zone with his classmates and their families last Saturday when the Princeton University football team held its annual Senior Day ceremony before hosting Penn in the season finale.

“Of course it is emotional, the focus for me was just remaining focused and not looking at the big picture,” said Princeton senior running back Volker. “I owe it to my teammates, my coaches, and everyone who put a lot into this program to have my full attention on this game for 60 minutes.”

Volker displayed his focus for all 60 minutes against the Quakers, beginning and ending his final game for the Tigers with a bang. Volker sprinted 75 yards for a touchdown on Princeton’s first play from scrimmage as the Tigers jumped out to a 7-0 lead. In the waning moments on the contest with Princeton clinging to a 20-17 lead, Volker bulled for 15 yards and a first down as the Tigers ran out the clock to win by that 20-17 margin, snapping a four-game losing streak to end the fall at 3-7 overall and 2-5 Ivy League.

“I am going to remember this game for the rest of my life,” said Volker, a 6’0, 215-pound native of Fair Haven, who ended up rushing for 130 yards on 15 carries with one touchdown and catching four passes for 40 yards against Penn.

Volker won’t soon forget his 75-yard TD dash as he raced through a big hole and then cut outside and sprinted down the sideline to paydirt.

“It parted like the Red Sea,” said Volker. “I just ran, I sprinted to the end zone. The O-line played a great game. It is the best feeling in the world. Usually I kind of just black out but for whatever reason, I was like wow, this is the first play of the game.”

Even though Princeton found itself down 17-10 at halftime, the Tigers weren’t discouraged.

“We are really good at handling adversity,” said Volker. “Throughout all of the ups and downs this season, the effort remained the same every game. We never point the finger, we never got in a bad way. It was just go out and do your job.”

In the third quarter, the Princeton defense got the job done. A fumble recovery by defensive lineman Collin Taylor set up a Jeffrey Sexton field goal as the Tigers narrowed the gap to 17-13 with 6:23 left in the quarter. Less than a minute later, sophomore defensive lineman Caden Wright scooped up a Penn fumble and rumbled six yards into the end zone as Princeton went up 2017.

“That was awesome,” said Volker, referring to the heroics by the Tiger defense. “I think that shows the effort piece, the passion, and the brotherhood

we have. Everyone fought to the last play, that was just great to see.”

Volker showed his passion down the stretch as his hard running helped the Tigers close the deal.

“It is an amazing feeling when you have backing of the whole program,” said Volker. “The coaches put the ball in my hands. Thank God that I delivered, I couldn’t be prouder.”

While Volker was proud of the win in the finale, it was the deep bonds with his teammates that meant the most to him.

“It is always good to end the season with a win,” said Volker. “I think the important takeaway from the season is that these guys are going to be my brothers for life. We can always remember this last game that we had together.”

Although Volker missed some time this fall with injury, he was still able to rush for 514 yards and six TDs in his final campaign.

“That is the nature of the game, you are going to get a little banged up and you are going to have to tough it out,” said Volker. “I am glad I didn’t get too injured where it kept me out too long this season. Our training staff got me right, I was just really grateful that I got to play.”

In addition, Volker has been grateful to add to a family tradition as his older brother

Charlie ’19, was a star running back for Princeton.

“It is always great to make my brother proud,” said Volker.

“He has always been a great role model for me. People say following in footsteps has a negative connotation. I see it as a great thing, he has always been a great leader and brother to me.”

Having been coming to Princeton games since 2015, Volker ultimately decided that he wanted to follow in his brother’s footsteps.

“I didn’t really think about it too seriously until I got midway through high school,” said Volker. “I always knew this place was awesome. That is eventually what my decision came down to at the end.”

Princeton head coach Bob Surace credited Volker with making an awesome run on his TD jaunt.

“It was not only his cut to the outside, he outran some angles,” said Surace, who joked with Volker that he ran faster on his touchdown run than his brother did on his program-record 96-yard TD run against Brown in 2017. “Penn had some fast guys on defense. For him to outrun those guys was very impressive.”

At halftime, Surace implored the Tiger defense to step up.

“The first message was that I was really disappointed at the end of the half,” said Surace. “They competed a 20-yard pass to start where we are in cover two and it is a two-minute drill. The corner has to be deeper and we missed some tackles. I just thought that for whatever reason we had a lack of focus on that series. I talked about punching the ball. They were loose with the ball. Words are words, their execution punching the ball out was huge. The guys really did a great job forcing those.”

The strong rushing of Volker and sophomore Ethan Clark

(26 yards on seven carries) was a huge plus for the Tigers. “When we have had two running backs healthy, we have been really good,” said Surace. “Those guys just run hard.”

The bounces finally went Princeton’s way after tough losses to Cornell (49-35 on November 2) Dartmouth (2617 on November 8) and Yale (42-28 on November 16).

“We fought hard all year, I don’t question that they are going to come out on Tuesday fired up and ready to go,” said Surace. “They know some of the issues with being shorthanded but they tried to fight through them and we have had the almosts. All of the last three games were like this game. They are a coin flip and the other teams made plays at the end.”

The 3-7 campaign will result in some soul searching for Surace.

“It is frustrating because I really wish I could have done more to get the guys in the mix to win a championship,” said Surace. “We will review all of that. There will be an overview tomorrow, a snapshot, but then we will take a month to just look at all of the video and data.

The progress made by some of Princeton’s young guys bodes well for the future.

“They have been growing,” said Surace, citing the play of sophomore linebacker Chase Christopher, freshman linebacker AJ Pigford, sophomore defensive lineman Caden Wright, sophomore defensive back Torian Roberts, and sophomore defensive back Haynie. “When guys are playing in roles that might be sooner than you expected them to be in they are either going to tire out and we are going to look really ugly or they are going to grow and get better. I think there is a lot of positives from what those guys did and we have to keep building.”

Surace pointed to the play of junior back-up linebacker Jalen Jones as an example of that growth.

“I complimented Jalen Jones, he was a third string SAM linebacker (strongside) behind Marco [Scarano] and Payton [Tally] and Marco goes inside so he is a second string,” said Surace.“He ended up having to play three quarters today and he played really, really well. It is just preparation. He is a guy who didn’t have to study but he did. That is a sign of guys who really care about each other.”

The Princeton seniors keep caring despite the defeats piling up as the program suffered its first losing season since 2011.

“I knew they were going to handle coming to practice, preparing, playing hard,” said Surace. “It is do we have enough ammunition to beat a good team. There is going to be error, we made some errors today. It was too much to overcome against Yale. It was a little bit too much to overcome against Dartmouth. Sometimes the ball doesn’t bounce your way and you have to be able to keep fighting.”

Volker, for his part, was proud to fight to the end with his teammates.

“The guys I see every day, the guys I eat meals with, the guys I go to practice and lift with, that is what I am going to remember the most about this place,” said Volker. “There are some amazing people here, I am really going to cherish that.”

And by keeping his focus last Saturday as emotions swirled, Volker produced a Senior Day performance to remember.

—Bill Alden

SENIOR MOMENT: Princeton University football running back John Volker looks for an opening in recent action. Senior Volker ended his Princeton career on a high note last Saturday, rushing for 130 yards and one touchdown and catching four passes for 40 yards to help Princeton edge Penn 20-17. The Tigers ended the fall at 3-7 overall and 2-5 Ivy League.

(Photo by Frank Wojciechowski)

PU Women’s Volleyball Falls to Yale in Ivy Final, But Young Squad Showed Growth with Late Run

Twice this year the Princeton University women’s volleyball team fell at home to Yale.

The second time came in the Tigers’ 3-0 loss (27-25, 25-23, 25-20) to the Bulldogs last Saturday at Dillon Gym and it hurt far worse than their 3-1 defeat back on October 5.

This time, it came in the Ivy League Tournament championship and the loss ended Princeton’s season that had come on so strongly down the stretch.

“I’m really proud of them,” said Princeton head coach Sabrina King.“We had a really great season. There’s nothing I can say and make them feel better at that moment.”

If there was a silver lining to the loss, it’s that only three of the Tigers players won’t be back. The three seniors — Gracie Wood, Shelby Fulton, and Mariah Haislip — are the lone Tigers who will graduate from this year’s team that finished 15-11 overall, and put together a 12-2 Ivy record to capture a share of the league’s regular season championship with Yale. Most of Princeton’s strength lies in its younger players. Kamryn Chaney, who was Ivy League Player of the Year, is a sophomore. Three other players were named second team All-Ivy. Lucia Scalamandre still has a year left, Sydney Draper has another two years to go, and Jackie Onyechi is only a freshman.

“We knew that that sophomore class was going to be the core of what we did this year,” said King. “And a lot of things were learned here, so they’re just building experience and every kind of loss like this, they can take it with them and hopefully build from it.”

Experience may have been an issue for the Tigers who couldn’t get over the hump against Yale three weeks after upending the Bulldogs in New Haven, Conn. That road win was one of the biggest of the year for the Tigers, who looked transformed over the second half of the season. Princeton was 2-2 in Ivy play and 4-9 overall after their first home loss to Yale, and didn’t lose again in Ivy play, ripping off 10 straight down the stretch with a non-conference loss to Marquette the only blemish overall.

“We just started playing with a lot of confidence,” said King.

“I think we knew we had the talent, but we just weren’t playing with that kind of confidence and swagger. And you saw the cracks tonight of just doubt in ourselves again. And volleyball is like that. If you can throw doubt into anybody else’s head, then you have an advantage. And so we were on the receiving end of that, and I give a lot of credit to Yale. They’re a great team. They planted the seeds of doubt and we let them grow.”

Top-seeded Princeton repeatedly played from behind Saturday, and second-seeded Yale repeatedly made the biggest plays down the stretch. The first game set was a thriller with Princeton rallying from a 22-20 deficit to come back to take set point at 25-24. Yale won the next three points to take the first set, 27-25.

Princeton trailed in the second set, 16-11, early but fought back to make it 2222. The Tigers were down a point when a close call in the back corner gave Yale a two-point edge and they went on to a 25-23 win.

Princeton clawed back from a 17-14 deficit to tie it 19-19 in the third game before a 6-1 run ended the match in Yale’s favor.

“We’re usually pretty good from behind, but it just felt like every time we did have a good pass, it felt like it had to be a kill because Yale doesn’t make errors so you’re not going to get a bunch of free points,” said King. “So we had to be really, really efficient when we were in system and I think that’s where we kind of fell down is our in-system play.”

Chaney finished with 13 kills against the Bulldogs and Draper had 31 assists to go with seven kills. Tiger sophomore Sydney Bold led all players with 13 digs. This was the first time in three seasons of the Ivy tournament that the Tigers earned the right to host. Princeton won the tiebreaker over Yale

in the final of the Ivy League Tournament

by virtue of the best record against the next highest finishing team, third-place Cornell whom Princeton swept in the regular season.

“That’s huge it was an exciting turn of events the last weekend,” said King. “And so having a piece of the championship is always an awesome thing. And it’s interesting because two years ago it would have been all we wanted. It didn’t even matter — the Ivy League Tournament. But everything has changed in the last two years, and of course we want the Ivy League championship, but we really want to represent our league in NCAAs and we didn’t get to do that this year, but I think we’ll be back next year.”

The Tigers can take away knowing the things that helped to turn them around this year, and put together

Tree & Landscape, Inc 609-430-1195 Wellstree.com

Taking care of Princeton’s trees

such a strong run down to the end. Princeton blew by fourth-seeded Brown, 3-0 (25-21, 25-10, 25-16) in Friday’s semifinal to reach the Ivy Tournament final, and fell Saturday just one step short of their ultimate goal of the tournament win.

“A little bit of perspective from the first day that we stepped in this gym and you work out together in preseason, do fitness testing, it’s every single day we show up for each other and that’s the most important thing,” said King. “And it’s built something really special this season. We’re really sad to see it end, but it’s going to be brought up again.”

Princeton can relish how it developed over this season with such a young team. Their biggest contributors on the court will be back, and they will come back

hungrier to improve on the issues that cost them in their final loss.

“They’re ready for a break and I think that they deserve that break and I’ll give them a couple of weeks,” said King. “We won’t start training again until the new year and that’s when we can really focus on a lot of the stuff that is hard to focus on during the season.”

With so much talent returning, Princeton will have a target on their backs next year. They don’t have to fix a lot. The Tigers will be looking to host the Ivy tourney again and this time to celebrate on their home court.

“Absolutely,” said King. “I know we can do it.”

—Justin Feil

a Princeton tradition!

SET UP FOR SUCCESS: Princeton University women’s volleyball player Sydney Draper sets the ball in recent action. Last Saturday, sophomore star Draper tallied seven kills and 31 assists in a losing cause as top-seeded Princeton fell 3-0 (27-25, 25-23,

PU Sports Roundup

Princeton Men’s Hoops Places 7th at Myrtle Event

Competing at the 2024 Myrtle Beach Invitational last week in Conway, S.C., the Princeton University men’s basketball team went 1-2 in placing seventh at the event.

On Thursday, Princeton fell 80-62 to Wright State in an opening round contest as junior star Xaivian Lee scored a team-high 14 points. A day later, the Tigers fell 83-80 to Texas State in a consolation matchup as Lee poured in 30 points. On Sunday, Princeton

routed Portland 94-67 in the seventh place game as freshman CJ Happy led the way with a career-high 16 points.

The Tigers, now 5-3, host Division III Nazareth on November 27 before playing at Saint Joseph’s on December 3.

PU Men’s Cross Country Takes 24th at NCAAs

Myles Hogan set the pace as the Princeton University men’s cross country team placed 24th at the NCAA Championships last Saturday in Madison, Wisc.

Junior star Hogan placed 64th individually in a time of 29:38.9 over the 10,000-meter course.

In the team standings, Princeton had a score of 587

while BYU won the event with

As for the Princeton women, senior Mena Scatchard qualified for the NCAA meet individually and ended up finishing in 123rd place with a time of 20:41.2 over the 6,000-meter course.

PU Women’s Hoops

Defeats Rutgers Fadima Tall posted her first career double-double as the Princeton University women’s basketball team defeated Rutgers 66-49 last Sunday.

Sophomore Tall piled up 11 points and 10 rebounds for the Tigers, who improved to 4-2.

Princeton is next in action when it plays at Portland on December 6.

FOUR-PEAT: Members of the Princeton University men’s water polo team celebrate after the top-seeded Tigers defeated third-seeded Brown 17-6 in the final of the Northeast Water Polo Conference (NWPC) tournament last Sunday at DeNunzio Pool. It marked the fourth straight NWPC title for Princeton. The Tigers, now 23-8, will head into the NCAA tournament where it will face host Stanford in the quarterfinal round on December 6 at the Avery Aquatic Center in Stanford, Calif.

PU Women’s Hockey Falls to Cornell

Mackenzie Alexander starred in a losing cause as the Princeton University women’s hockey team fell 4-3 to No. 8 Cornell last Saturday at Hobey Baker Rink. Freshman forward Alexander tallied one goal and one assist for the Tigers, now 5-5 overall and 3-5 ECAC Hockey.

Princeton plays at Boston University on November 28 and then has a two-game set at Stonehill on November 29 and 30.

Tiger Men’s Hockey

Loses at Cornell

Digging an early hole, the Princeton University men’s hockey team lost 5-0 at No. 7 Cornell last Saturday night in Ithaca, N.Y.

The Tigers fell behind 3-0 in the first period as they dropped to 1-4-1 overall and 1-4-1 ECAC Hockey.

Princeton hosts Ohio State for a two-game set on November 29 and 30.

Princeton Wrestling Posts 1-1 Weekend

Ty Whalen, Luke Stout, and Sebastian Garibaldi each posted two wins as the Princeton University wrestling team went 1-1 in a pair of duals last Saturday at Chattanooga, Tenn., falling 26-15 to Purdue before topping Chattanooga 29-13.

Sophomore Whalen went 2-0 at 149 pounds with senior Stout following suit at 197 and junior Garibaldi winning twice at 285.

Princeton, now 2-2, returns to action when it faces Iowa on December 6 at Francis Howell High School in St. Louis, Mo. before hosting Rutgers on December 8 at Jadwin Gym.

Tiger Men’s Swimming Tops Penn, Cornell

Tyler Hong starred as the Princeton University men’s swimming topped Penn 177122 and Cornell 163-137 last Saturday in Philadelphia.

Senior Hong placed first in both the 200-yard butterfly and the 200 backstroke and also helped the Tigers 200 medley and 400 freestyle relays to victory.

The Tigers, now 5-0 overall

and 2-0 Ivy League, are next in action when they host their annual Big Al Invitational from December 6-8 at DeNunzio Pool.

PU Women’s Swimming Defeats Penn, Cornell

Sparked by Eleanor Sun, the Princeton University women’s swimming defeated Penn 176124 and Cornell 219-81 in action last Saturday in Philadelphia.

Sophomore Sun placed first in the 100-yard breaststroke, 200 backstroke, and the 200 individual medley.

The Tigers, now 5-0 overall, are next in action when they host their annual Big Al Invitational from December 6-8 at DeNunzio Pool.

Princeton Men’s Squash Defeats Drexel, Now 2-0

Producing a dominant performance, the Princeton University men’s squash team defeated Drexel 9-0 last

Saturday.

The Tigers posted five 3-0 wins as they improved to 2-0. Princeton plays at Williams on December 7. Coach Ramsay Gets 300th Win As Women’s Squash Tops Drexel Legendary Princeton University women’s squash head coach Gail Ramsay hit a major milestone as the Tigers defeated Drexel 9-0 last Saturday in their season opener.

Ramsay earned her 300th career win as Princeton won its first match in its new facility in Princeton’s Meadows neighborhood. Now in her 31st year guiding the Tigers, Ramsay has led the Tigers to five Howe Cup team national titles as well as four Ivy League championships. In topping the Dragons, Princeton posted four 3-0 wins and four 3-1 victories. Princeton plays at Williams on December 7.

(Photo by Frank Wojciechowski)

ZIPPED UP: Princeton University men’s soccer player Jack Jasinski gets ready to kick the ball in recent action. Last Thursday, junior midfielder Jasinski played all 90 minutes and had two shots on goal as Princeton fell 1-0 to Akron in the first round of the NCAA tournament. The loss to the Zips left the Tigers with a final record of 12-7. (Photo by Frank Wojciechowski)

PHS Boys’ Soccer Gets Edged in Group 4 Semis

But Loss Can’t Dim What Team Achieved this Fall

Playing at Southern High in the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) Group 4 state semis last week, the Princeton High boys’ soccer team faced some challenges in terms of a talented foe and a choppy pitch.

“They are really big, athletic and we knew that Aidan Donnelly, their forward, was really a handful,” said PHS head coach Ryan Walsh. “They were really senior heavy so we knew that we were going to have to handle them athletically. It was going to be a different style of soccer because of their grass field. We spend so much time training to play some quality soccer. We knew it was going to be a different

game, so we had to change our style a little bit.”

It turned out to a bumpy ride as a handball call on the Tigers resulted in a penalty kick that Donnelly converted to give Southern a 1-0 lead six minutes into the November 19 contest. Undaunted, PHS generated a number of chances but couldn’t cash in any of them as the Tigers fell by that 1-0 score to finish the season with a 183-4 record.

“We still created opportunities,” said Walsh, noting that Southern went on to win the Group 4 state title, defeating Scotch Plains-Fanwood 2-0 in the final on Sunday. “We had some chances but it didn’t go our way.”

TO THE MATT: Princeton High boys’ soccer player Matt Chao kicks the ball in a game earlier this season. Senior Chao helped key a strong defensive effort as PHS fell 1-0 to Southern High in the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) Group 4 state semis on November 19. The Tigers ended the fall with an 18-3-4 record. (Photo by Frank Wojciechowski)

Then Tigers had some frustrating near misses over the last 40 minutes of the contest.

Bringing Keen Focus Into Non-Public B

Group Meet, Wilberforce School Girls’ Cross Country Placed 2nd

“We came out in the second half, Azariah [Breitman] had a really good chance really early on,” said Walsh. “Then their goalie got a yellow card so he came off the field and they put in their reserve goalie but Chase [Hamerschlag] missed the shot wide, he didn’t put it on frame. Then with three minutes left we had a throw in and Archie [Smith] had a clean look. The goalie made a save, Azariah got the rebound and their defender dove and made a goal line save. It was there. We were battling the whole way.”

Although the Tigers came up short against Southern, the loss didn’t dim with PHS achieved this fall.

“The message to the team was how proud I was of them this year, the seniors especially,” said Walsh, whose squad won the Central Jersey sectional and Group 4 state title last year in his first season guiding the program and then won the Colonial Valley Conference tournament and a second straight sectional crown this fall. “They have won everything that they could win in the last two years. To have so much success they should be proud of what they accomplished at Princeton High School.”

With PHS graduating a number of stars from its state champion squad, it took a while for the Tigers to get rolling in 2024.

“Early on after losing so many important players from last year, we had to fill this team in,” said Walsh. “I thought that after about five or six games, we really started to catch our stride. There was so much growth from August 19th all the way until the end. It was great to see.”

The team’s senior group — which included Breitman, Smith, Nicolas Holmelund, Connor Hewitt, Matt Chao, Thomsen Lord, Jaiden JainEdwards, Brian Donis, Owen Barry, Derek Leiva, Ben Gitai, Theo Kristensen, Oliver Juan, and Chris Penston — made a great impact on the program.

“This senior class is fantastic, they are great leaders,” said Walsh. “Obviously they are really talented soccer players, but they are also fantastic people. That is what made this team jell. It was because the seniors were so welcoming to the new guys, they really helped the new guys along.”

The Tigers will be welcoming back a core of talented players next season.

“We had some underclassmen play some really important roles this year,” said Walsh. “We have a sophomore class that is pretty talented and pretty big. So between the sophomores and the juniors like Aaron [Thyrum], Chase [Hamerschlag], Ivan [Marinov] and Andre [Ansarah], we are excited for next year as well.”

Walsh is excited for his third year at the helm of the program.

“This year felt a little different. Last year with the seniors, a lot of those guys were Wayne’s (previous head coach Wayne Sutcliffe) guys,” said Walsh. “This year it felt more like my team. There was a lot of mixing and matching, we tried some things out. Some things didn’t work but we figured it out. We have a great foundation in place to have success year after year.”

—Bill Alden

Heading into the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) Non-Public B Group championship meet earlier this month, the Wilberforce School girls’ cross country team had extra motivation to excel.

“Having no county meet made a difference, the goal all season was Non-Public B,” said Wilberforce head coach Lois Szeliga, referring to the decision by the Mercer County Tournament Association last spring that it was discontinuing county competitions in favor of Colonial Valley Conference Tournaments which bar local private schools who are not members of the CVC.

“We did see what a powerhouse Villa Walsh was going to be going into that meet. We were watching their team and we realized they were really, really strong all season long.”

The Wolverines gave Villa Walsh a strong battle at the Non-Public meet, placing second to Vikings in the competition which was held at Holmdel Park on November 9.

“We had some phenomenal running, I was really proud of them,” said Szeliga, whose team had a score of 53 with Villa Walsh coming in at 25.

“Without the team going to the NJSIAA Meet of Champions (MOC), we got three girls there by qualifying in the top 10. That is a remarkable result.”

Wilberforce junior star Laura Sallade produced a remarkable performance, placing third individually, covering the 5,000-meter course in a time of 19:50.

“Laura had a breakout season,” said Szeliga, noting that Sallade had the highest finish at the Non Public B meet in school history for the Wolverine girls and set the school record for a cross country 5k (18.24.84) at the Bob Kiessling Invitational on November 2.

Having recovered from a leg injury that derailed her late last season, Sallade

best finish for a Wilberforce girl at the meet and the best time on the Holmdel course.

“Laura was challenging in every race she went in,” said Szeliga. “Those top runners are more spread out, not in a pack, so that was an adjustment for her. It is a little bit more mentally challenging because sometimes you are not with other people pushing each other. I just saw her own that, that is the price you pay when you are up front. She has embraced that.”

Two senior frontrunners, Adeline Edwards and Gwen Mersereau, excelled at the Non-Public meet. Edwards placed seventh in 20:47 while Mersereau came in 22nd with a time of 24:40.

“When I think about where we were, how those two came on the scene, they really established the team,” said Szeliga. “Their freshman year, that it is when it was like ‘Wilber-who?’ and we won the state championship. Then we won it the next year. Those two girls established our program and put us on the map. They mean more than just as athletes, they have been through all of those experiences as seniors. They are wonderful mentors. They make the atmosphere fun and yet also excellent. They are going to be very missed but I know that they trained the younger generation well.”

A pair of those younger runners, sophomore Stella Blanchard, and freshman Stella Tobey, are following in the footsteps of Edwards and Mersereau. Blanchard took 10th at the Non-Public meet in 22:20 with Tobey finishing 26th in 24:57.

“Stella Blanchard not only stepped up at the No. 3 spot, she just did so well, she killed it,” said Szeliga. “She dropped her best time by over a minute this fall. With Villa Walsh looking so strong, I warned the girls, make sure you try to get into that top 10 so you can automatically make it to the MOC. Stella nabbed that No. 10 spot. I know that meant a lot to her, she really pushed herself. We asked Stella Tobey to run in all of the championship races and she ended up scoring for us in the

Group championship. We didn’t beat Gill St Bernard’s by that many points for second. Her performance in that Group championship really meant a lot for us.”

Szeliga got a good performance from her boys’ squad as they placed fifth in the Non-Public B meet. Sophomore Elias Edwards led the way for the Wolverines, taking ninth in 18:21 with sophomore Micah Brox placing 27th in 19:32 and freshman Caed Wilson taking 28th in the same time. Sophomore Henry Jepson finished 42nd in 20:19 with sophomore Aaron Szeliga coming in 53rd with a time of 21:01. Wilberforce had a team score of 147 in the meet won by Princeton Day School at 57.

“We came in with a very young team, with the freshmen you don’t necessarily know what you are going to get,” said Szeliga, who saw a pair of freshmen, Wilson and Luke Young, emerge as strong performers. “The boys knew going into Non Public, that it was going to be a tough race for them. Non Public B boys was very competitive this year. They had great races. Elias qualified for the MOC, he was happy with that. He fought for that No. 9 spot.”

The trio of Edwards, Brox, and Jepson give the Wolverines a strong foundation going forward.

“Elias, Micah and Henry are a really strong top three,” said Szeliga. “They are really close together. They motivate each other, they work well in practice together. They are going to be a great core for building in the future.”

Wilson’s progress this fall is another good sign for the future.

“Caed was a big surprise, he was challenging those top runners by the end of the season,” said Szeliga. “I think every freshman comes into cross country with a little trepidation because it is a 5k. By the end of the season, he was fearless and going for it.”

The Wolverine boys are heading into next fall brimming with confidence.

“The boys ended the season very excited about the future,” said Szeliga. “It was a building year, they are all committed to coming back.”

—Bill Alden

SPECIAL FORCE: Members of the Wilberforce School girls’ cross country team are all smiles after they placed second in the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) Non-Public B state championship meet at Holmdel Park earlier this month. Junior Laura Sallade placed third individually at the meet to lead the way for the Wolverines. In the team standings, Wilberforce had a team score of 53 with Villa Walsh taking first at 25. Pictured, from left, are Stella Tobey, Sophia Vardeman, Gwen Mersereau, Sallade, Stella Blanchard, and Adeline Edwards.

(Photo provided by Lois Szeliga)

Adding Inside Punch To Go With Sharp

Shooting,

Hun Boys’ Hoops Primed for a Stellar Campaign

As the Hun School boys’ basketball team rounds into shape for the upcoming season, adding some muscle from the school’s dominant football program should give it some more punch.

“We have got three football players, they are getting into the fray pretty quickly here,” said Hun head coach Jon Stone, who guided the Raiders to a 10-14 record last winter. “There is a lot of energy, there is a lot of enthusiasm. It is a really good group.”

Hun will be getting a jolt of energy in the backcourt from sophomore transfer Blake Hargrove.

“We have a new player, Blake, who is excellent,” said Stone, whose team tips off its season by hosting Malvern Prep (Pa.) on November 30. “He is a really strong

two-way player. His defense is excellent, he is really quick and strong. He has the ability to get assists and score as well. He is going to be a really good addition for us.”

Two battle-tested veterans, senior AJ Mickens and junior Sage Mateo, figure to give the Raiders some strong play at guard.

“AJ has experience, he has got talent, and he has got skill; we will certainly be looking to him to help lead the way,” said Stone, who will also be using junior Eshan Kulkarni and senior Jasai Vargas in the backcourt.

“Sage really grew last year, he had some really good moments. He has only gotten better, he has gotten a lot stronger physically. He is really starting to take his game to the next level, which is great to see.”

Senior newcomer Evan Brown provides versatility as a swing player.

“Evan is a wing, he is about 6’4 — he is very thick, he is built like a linebacker,” said Stone. “He is going to be a really good addition as well. He will be in the mix with the guards and the rotation. He is a college basketball player for sure. He is really athletic and strong.”

At forward, senior Drae Tyme, a star tight end who is headed to Holy Cross to play for its football program, will be adding some inside punch to the mix.

“Drae is a big part of what we did last year, we are super excited to have him back,” said Stone. “I joke around with him, saying he can play college basketball if he wants to. Drae is a great leader and a really strong presence for us. He has improved a lot as a basketball player as well. He is bigger and stronger for sure. He just been doing a really, really good job for us. He is very, very steady.”

Two other football players, juniors Luke Wafle and Seth Clarke, should be a strong presence for the Raiders in the paint.

“Luke got hurt in football last year and he was playing through it,” said Stone, who noted that sophomore transfer Julian Van Hoeck will also be seeing time at forward. “He played five games for us. He got it looked at, got an MRI and had surgery. He is a specimen, he is tremendous. We are excited to have Luke back. We have another football player, Seth, who is new to the school this year. He is 6’3 and is just a really good physical presence. He also has a lot of skill around the basket with both hands. He is a good defender. He will certainly be in the mix a lot up front.”

Looking ahead to the season, Stone believes his squad’s strength in the frontcourt should make it formidable.

“Some of the keys for us are going to be getting the ball into the paint, whether it is posting up or just penetrating,” said Stone. “I think if we can get it inside, either by dribble or pass, it is going to open up a lot for us. We have some good shooters again. We have to play well at the defensive end. I am really excited about the year — I can’t wait for the first game.”

—Bill Alden

Featuring a Mix of New Faces, Veterans, Hun Boys’ Hockey Produces a 0-1-1 Start

Having lost a stellar group of nine seniors to graduation from last year’s squad, the Hun School boys’ hockey team will have a different look this winter.

“We have a lot of new faces but at the same time we still have a lot of guys who are familiar with the program and have been around for a few years,” said second-year Hun head coach Eric Szeker, who guided the Raiders to a 5-12 record last season. “One of the things I try to build is a good culture and that starts with the guys inside the locker room. They have done a really good job of making everybody feel welcome, whether it is the JV guys, the varsity guys, or new transfers, whatever it might be. There was a lot of excitement coming into the season.”

Hun started the season with two exciting games, falling 4-3 to Devon Prep (Pa.) last Thursday in its season opener and then skating to a 3-3 tie with Father Judge (Pa.) a day later.

“We got four to five older transfers into the school and we got some kids into the school who are young but very high skilled with a lot of room for growth,” said Szeker. “With that mixture, it might take us a game or two to find out who goes where. I think we are going to be a deeper team than we were last year.”

The Raiders boast depth at forward with the return of such veterans as junior Jack Beck, junior Anders Van Raalte, senior Luke Rassier, junior Justin Tong, junior Nate Trawinski, and senior Jake O’Connell.

“Jake is back, he looks just as good as he left off last season,” said Szeker, who got a goal from Van Raalte in the loss to Devon with O’Connell scoring two goals and Trawinski adding one in the tie with Father Judge. “He was awesome against Devon over all 200 feet, his game is solid in all zones. We have more returners like Luke and Justin. Jake has been part of the program for four years, he has been a mainstay here. It is great because experience is something you can only can get with time.”

The addition of a trio of transfers — junior Evan Koserowski, junior Luca Jean, and sophomore Justin Bibeau — should help give Hun more offensive firepower. Jean and Bibeau both scored goals against Devon.

“We brought in some older forwards as well,” said Szeker. “Evan is a great player along with Luca and Justin.”

A pair of freshmen — Devin Espana and Connor Mulligan — figure to bolster the Raider defensive unit.

“Devin played lights out last night against Devon for a freshman,” said Szeker. “Connor is a Princeton guy, he is playing defense right now. As things go along, we can shift him to forward, He is one of those kids who plays fearless and bigger than he is. He has got tremendous speed and hockey IQ.”

Junior Andrew Darst, junior Chase Preston, sophomore Andre Cline, and junior Ezra Broomer will also

be seeing time on the blue line.

“We are lucky to have Andrew Darst back again, he scored some big goals for us last year as a sophomore,” said Szeker. “He played some major minutes and handled it really well.

Chase unfortunately got injured early in the year last year but was playing great hockey for us. He is back and had an awesome game against Devon. We have some younger guys who have stepped up as well. Andrew Cline played some minutes last night and looked really good in the spots he was put in at.

Ezra practiced with varsity a lot last year. He is playing 18 AA this year which was really good prep for him to get ready for the level that we play.”

At goalie, postgraduate Elliott Wong and senior Patrick Donoghue provide leadership and skill.

“Elliott is a tremendous goalie and a tremendous human, he is mature beyond his years,” said Szeker. “He is a great leader, he has an amazing work ethic. He is somebody I couldn’t be more thrilled to have in our program. Patrick is phenomenal skill-wise, there is no question there, but he has become more vocal in the room and in practices. He is on guys to communicate a bit more. He does it in the right way and guys are receptive to him. The maturity and the leadership I have seen in him is really stepped up.”

With Hun returning from the Thanksgiving break to play at LaSalle College High School (Pa.) on December 4, at the Haverford School (Pa.) on December 6, and at the Pingry School on December 9, the Raiders will be focusing on tightening up things defensively.

“We are going to have to take care of the defensive zone, that is going to be our biggest area,” said Szeker. “We play some really good teams and they are going to have high flying forwards. The bright side about this team is that we also have a lot of forwards that are good. We are going to get our opportunities to score goals. It is making sure that we don’t cheat on the defensive side trying to get more goals. If we do that, we are going to leave our goalies in some tough spots.”

In Szeker’s view, his players are developing the tough mentality needed to compete with that gauntlet of foes.

“The results are going to be what they are, we want to win a lot of games obviously, like any athlete or competitor,” said Szeker. “The way you approach things is you come to practice every day, mentally prepared and physically prepared, all of those things. If you are checking those boxes, the results are going to come. It may not come when you want but if you stick to it you will get to where you want to be. We are heading in that direction and I would definitely say we are a couple of steps ahead of where we were last year.”

—Bill Alden

TYME TO SHINE: Hun School boys’ basketball player Drae Tyme heads to the hoop in a game last season. Senior forward Tyme, who also stars at football, will be looking to give Hun some muscle in the paint. The Raiders start their 2024-25 campaign by hosting Malvern Prep (Pa.) on November 30. (Photo by Frank Wojciechowski)

Girls’ Basketball : Continuing its hot start to the 2024-25 campaign, Hun got a pair of wins as it hosted the Mid-Atlantic League (MAPL) Tip-Off last weekend. The Raiders topped the Hill School (Pa.) 64-38 on Saturday and then defeated Pennington 69-51 a day later. Hun, now 3-0, is next in action when it hosts Friere Charter School (Pa.) on December 3 and the Academy of New Church (Pa.) on December 4.

Pennington

Girls’ Basketball : Izzy Augustine led the way as Pennington defeated the Hill School (Pa.) 62-54 last Friday in the Mid-Atlantic League (MAPL) Tip-Off to open its season. Augustine poured in 28 points for the Red Hawks in the win.

Pennington, which fell 6951 to the Hun School on Sunday to wrap up play in the MAPL Tip-Off, will be hosting the Shipley School (Pa.) on December 3.

Local Sports

Dillon Hoops League Accepting Registrations

The Princeton Recreation Department is now taking registrations for the 2025 Dillon Youth Basketball League.

The Dillon Youth Basketball League is entering its 53 rd season and is a cherished tradition in the Princeton community. The league consists of both games and practices. It is open to boys and girls in grades 3-8 who are Princeton residents and non-residents who attend school in Princeton.

The league’s games will be taking place from January-March 2025 and will be held Saturday mornings at local schools. A recreational league intended for players of all skill and experience levels, Dillon Basketball is about playing the game the right way, teamwork, and having fun.

To register, log onto register.communitypass. net/princeton under “2025 Winter Sports Programs.”

Registration is open until January 3, or until divisions are at capacity. More information can be found online at princetonrecreation.com.

Princeton Athletic Club

Holding 6K Run on Dec. 7

The Princeton Athletic Club will be holding its annual Winter Wonder Run at the Institute Woods on December 7.

The 6,000-meter run starts at 10 a.m. from the Princeton Friends School and is limited to 200 participants. This event is chip timed. All abilities are invited, including those who prefer to walk the course.

Online registration and full details regarding the event are available online at princetonac.org. Same day registration will be limited to credit card only — no cash — and space available.

The Princeton Athletic Club is a nonprofit running club for the community. The club, an all-volunteer organization, promotes running for the fun and health of it and stages several running events each year.

PDS Field Hockey Alumna Haggerty

Helps Middlebury Win D-III Title

Former Princeton Day School field hockey star Caroline Haggerty helped the Middlebury College field hockey team top Tufts 2-1 in the NCAA Division III championship game last Sunday in Lexington, Va.

Senior midfielder Haggerty tallied six goals and four assists this fall to help Middlebury go 19-2 as it won its seventh straight NCAA D-III crown.

and

Rider Furniture

“Where quality still matters.”

CHIEFS KINGDOM Members of the BESLER Chiefs are all smiles after they defeated the UOA Broncos 19-7 in the championship game of the Princeton Junior Football League (PJFL) Seniors division (Grades 7-8) earlier this month. Pictured in the front row, from left, are Teddy Hogshire, Zeph Chambers, Eme Moorhead, Dylan Chambers, and Alex Sarvis. In the back row, from left, are coach Greg Ambra, coach Simon Obregon, coach Abhi Tripathi, Henry Ambra, Shail Besler, coach Jon Besler, Sam Carter, Simon Hancock, Sean Devlin, and coach Bryan Devlin. Not pictured is Matteo Mawson.

GIANT ACCOMPLISHMENT: Players

coaches of the Christine’s Hope Giants enjoy the moment after they topped the Petrone Associates Steelers 28-15 in the championship game of the Princeton Junior Football League (PJFL) Super Juniors division (Grade 5-6) earlier this month. Pictured in the front row, from left, are Mike Kshirsagar, Leo Miele, Rivan Deshpande, Zack Johnson, George Hogshire, and Rylan Kukla. In the middle row, from left, Ben Heady, Hudson Radice Abraham Abed Henry Depenbrock, and Jaden Bauer. In the back row, from left, are

FLYING HIGH: Members of the Mercato Eagles celebrate after they defeated the Christine s Hope Giants 21-6 in the championship game of the Princeton Junior Football League (PJFL) Juniors division (Grades 3-4) easier this month. Pictured in the front row, from left, are Ethan Martins, Ryan Costello, Jamison Keel, Caleb Gladney, Chase Barr, Aiden Russo, and Matt Szold. In the back row, from left, are coach Chris Calmeyn, Gus Calmeyn, James Baldino, coach James Barr, and Russell Reuland

Susan K. Stein

September 20, 1946 –November 11, 2024

Susan Kampmeier Stein, age 78, passed away from heart failure in Princeton, New Jersey, on the evening of November 11, 2024, surrounded by loving family members.

Born and raised in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Susan graduated from Chattanooga City High School in 1964, honored as valedictorian. She also was a star basketball player, retaining prowess with an almost unstoppable left hook shot into her 70s.

She received her B.A. from Oberlin College in 1968, after a year of study abroad at the American University of Beirut in 1967, and her M.S. from MIT in 1972. She met her husband George H. Stein while studying in Boston; they were married in 1973.

A devoted wife and mother, she worked many years as a

registered dietician and laboratory researcher, always actively engaged in volunteer projects, building communities and friendships wherever she went. Together with her husband, she led an adventurous life, living in Atlanta, GA; Burlington, NC; Charlotte, NC; Miami, FL; New York City, NY; Los Angeles, CA; Munich, Germany; and Teaneck, NJ, before ultimately settling in Princeton in 1996. Throughout her life, she was committed to alleviating childhood malnutrition and the dire effects of poverty on women and children. She launched her efforts in this area with a summer working for the United Nations in Guatemala in 1968, continued her dedication through work in public health on women’s, infants’ and children’s nutrition, and brought this passion on into her volunteer work in Central New Jersey with the emergency shelter program of HOME SC (Housing Outreach Multi-faith Empowerment of Somerset County, NJ), then known as the Interfaith Hospitality Network of Somerset County; Arm In Arm, previously known as the Crisis Ministry of Princeton; and TASK (Trenton Area Soup Kitchen), especially through the food donation drive “Yes We Can” that she and her husband helped organize in 2009 in response to the financial crisis. She particularly enjoyed treating children with genetic disorders of metabolism, such as cystic fibrosis, in Florida, and a “second career” as technician and researcher in the Barry Jacobs lab of the Psychology Department of Princeton University, contributing to key research into the

functioning of serotonin in the brain. Known by friends and family for her scientific research abilities, she also worked informally as a patient advocate supporting several friends and family members including during her eldest daughter’s childhood cancer and her father’s struggle with Parkinson’s disease.

While living in California, she completed her conversion to Judaism — her faith in God served as a guide and a source of strength throughout her life. In Munich, Germany, between 1990–95, she and her husband founded what was to become Beth Shalom, the first liberal Jewish congregation in Munich since the end of World War II. She hosted holiday parties, taught the 8-11-year-old class at the group’s Jewish Sunday School, and organized religious services. She led families to make Chanukah candles from bags full of wax remnants of candles held high during a major public demonstration against xenophobia in Munich in 1992. Her warmth and welcoming spirit enabled many “lost” German and East European Jews to reclaim their heritage.

No celebration was complete without her smile and laughter, but just to be sure, she also brought her famous apple crisps and hazelnut tortes. For these cakes, she faithfully followed a traditional recipe from the Jewish communities on either side of the Rhine, which was passed down through the family via George’s grandmother, “Grossmama,” who was born in the Saarland. The hazelnut tortes were so prized that she was requested to fly them cross-country to

encourage you to make an appointment, with no obligation, to discuss the many options available to you.

family Pesach celebrations in Palo Alto and Salt Lake City.

In addition to maintaining lifelong friendships across decades and continental distances, she enjoyed fellowship, friendship, and community in Princeton, particularly with the extended family of David and Liz Cohen, neighbors for over 28 years, through the MIT Club of Princeton, and as an active member of the Walnut-Cuyler-Dempsey Potluck group.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Sophia “Sally” (Wass) Kampmeier and Roland August Kampmeier; an unborn son, “Charlie”; her sister, Ann (Kampmeier) Qualman; her sister-in-law, Astri Reusch; her father’s second wife, Silbia Scott Kampmeier; and several adored aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, and dear friends. She is survived by her husband of 51 years, George H. Stein; daughter Ada Laura Stein and grandson Erik Thorsteinsson; daughter Jannon Sonia Stein; daughter Julia Caroline Kampmeier Stein, son-in-law Lars Berg, and grandchildren Sono Aiden Berg Stein and Aletta Henriette Berg Stein; her brother William “Bill” Kampmeier (Paige); brother-in-law Samuel Stein (Gail); brother-inlaw Fred Stein (Sue); sister-in-law Ada Mae Crouse (Irvin); and beloved nieces, nephew-in-law, grandnieces of both kinds, godchildren, cousins, and cherished friends around the world.

Her memorial service will be on December 7 at 3 p.m. at Congregation Kehilat Shalom in Belle Mead.

In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome to one or more of the following organizations Susan cared about: HOME SC ( homescnj. org); the Audubon Society to Protect Birds ( audubon. org); the Watershed Institute (thewatershed.org/donate); the ACLU of New Jersey (aclu-nj.org); the World Wildlife Federation (worldwildlife. org); Arm In Arm ( arminarm.org); TASK (trentonsoupkitchen.org); and the Barre (Vt.) Historical Society (oldlaborhall.org).

She will be dearly missed.

Rita F. Rofe

Rita F. Rofe, a longtime Princeton resident, passed away on November 17, 2024, after a brief illness. A decades-long ESL educator in the Princeton School System, she also taught for several years in the American International School in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, after her retirement.

We pride ourselves on being a small, personal, and service oriented family business. With five generations of experience, we are here to help guide you through the difficult process of monument selection. We encourage you to make an appointment, with no obligation, to discuss the many options

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Edward Jonathan Bergman

Edward Jonathan Bergman, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on November 22, 2024 at the age of 82.

After spending his childhood in Bayonne with his brother, Robert, and parents, Abe and Ethel, Edward proudly graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a B.A. with Honors in Art History. He received his J.D. from Columbia University and, subsequently, spent two years as a graduate fellow at the Annenberg School of Communications where he worked in the Documentary Film Laboratory. Notably, he received the American Film Institute Independent Filmmaker Award.

In the mid-’70s, after settling in Princeton, NJ, Edward began the private practice of law. The firm Bergman & Barrett was established and continued until his recent retirement.

In the late-’80s, Edward became focused on alternative approaches to dispute resolution and was named to a Blue Ribbon Panel for the Creation of a Pilot Mediation Project for the U.S. District Court, District of NJ. From 1992 until his retirement, Edward mediated hundreds of cases in both state and federal courts.

In 1995, Edward returned to his alma mater and began teaching undergraduate courses in Negotiation and Dispute Resolution at the Wharton School of Business. In 2011, he was awarded the William G. Whitney

Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Education. In 2005, he transferred his skills to the Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy where he founded the Penn Program for the Management of Clinical Conflict. With the assistance of his Penn colleagues, Edward conducted Intensive Clinical Ethics Mediation Workshops three to four times per year. In addition to his law practice and teaching assignments, Edward found the time to write and co-author numerous articles published in peer-reviewed journals in the field of bioethics.

Edward’s connection to Penn extended beyond academics with his intense passion for Penn athletics, the Palestra, and Quaker Men’s Basketball. A season ticket holder for decades, Edward was a faithful and visible basketball fan always seated no more than two rows behind the team bench.

His love of basketball included traveling each year (for 40 years) to a city hosting a round of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament. Affectionately known as the “Boys of Spring,” Edward, Neil, Phil, and Steve, would celebrate their longtime friendship every March watching a weekend packed with college basketball.

A remembrance of Edward’s life would be incomplete without mentioning his love of Italian and French wines that he routinely shared with his family, friends, and Princeton Wine Group. Carefully curated bottles from Piedmont or Southern Rhone were routinely served with dinner he lovingly and meticulously prepared.

Ed is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Jennifer Mullen; his children Peter Bergman and Amy Bergman Bonomi; his grandchildren Liza Bonomi, Celia Bonomi, Zora Bergman, and Nathaniel Bergman; Jane Shapiro, his former wife and the mother of his children; his niece Maggie Bergman and great-niece Maisie Bo; and many dear friends and colleagues.

Rita enjoyed opera and yoga, was deeply committed to health and wellness pursuits, and, most especially, travel. Italy held a special place in her heart.

pride ourselves on being a small, personal, and service oriented family business. With five generations of experience, we are here to help guide you through the difficult process of monument selection. encourage you to make an appointment, with no obligation, to discuss the many options available to you.

We pride ourselves on

We pride ourselves on being a small, personal, and service oriented family business. With five generations of experience, we are here to help guide you through the difficult process of monument selection.

We pride ourselves on being a small, personal, and service oriented family business. With five generations of experience, we are here to help guide you through the difficult process of monument selection. We encourage you to make an appointment, with no obligation, to discuss the many options available to you.

We pride ourselves on being a small, personal, and service oriented family business. With five generations of experience, we are here to help guide you through the difficult process of monument selection. We encourage you to make an appointment, with no obligation, to discuss the many options available to you.

We pride ourselves on being a small, personal, and service oriented family business. With five generations of experience, we are here to help guide you through the difficult process of monument selection. We encourage you to make an appointment, with no obligation, to discuss the many options available to you.

We pride ourselves on being a small, personal, and service oriented family business. With five generations of experience, we are here to help guide you through the difficult process of monument selection.

We encourage you to make an appointment, with no obligation, to discuss the many options available to you.

and service oriented family business. With five generations of experience, we are here to help guide you through the difficult process of monument selection.

We pride ourselves on being a small, personal, and service oriented family business. With five generations of experience, we are here to help guide you through the difficult process of monument selection.

We pride ourselves on being a small, personal, and service oriented family business. With five generations of experience, we are

We pride ourselves on being a small, personal, and service oriented family business. With five generations of experience, we are here to help guide you through the

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We encourage you to make an appointment, with no obligation, to discuss the many options available to you.

We encourage you to make an appointment, with no obligation, to discuss the many options available to you.

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

We pride ourselves on being a small, personal, and service oriented family business. With five generations of experience, we are here to help guide you through the difficult process of monument selection.

We pride ourselves on being a small, personal, and service oriented family business. With five generations of experience, we are here to help guide you through the difficult process of monument selection.

We encourage you to make an appointment, with no obligation, to discuss the many options available to you.

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

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We pride ourselves on being a small, personal, and service oriented family business. With five generations of experience, we are here to help guide you through the difficult process of monument selection.

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We encourage you to make an appointment, with no obligation, to discuss the many options available to you.

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

We pride ourselves on being a small, personal, and service oriented family business. With five generations of experience, we are here to help guide you through the difficult process of monument selection.

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We encourage you to make an appointment, with no obligation, to discuss the many options available to you

We encourage you to make an appointment, with no obligation, to discuss the many options available to you

We encourage you to make an appointment, with no obligation, to discuss the many options available to you

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

Predeceased by her parents, Marie Detmer Zebro and Frank Zebro, Rita leaves behind her siblings, Marie Zebro Lake, of South River, NJ, Joseph Zebro of Hilton Head, SC, and Evelyn Zebro of Asheville, NC; nephews Edward Zebro, Adam Lake, Alexander Zebro Osio, and Damien Zebro Osio; as well as great-nieces, Gabrielle, Katherine, Sarah, and Alice. She will be greatly missed and always remembered.

Arrangements under the direction of The MatherHodge Funeral Home.

Marvin Wilmar Louis Ostberg

Marvin Wilmar Louis Ostberg, 88, of Skillman died on Monday, November 18, 2024 at home with his loving wife by his side. Two weeks earlier he had received initial copies of his book, Waking Up Old: A Life Lived Reasonably Well. Born in Slayton, Minnesota, he grew up in Nebraska. After graduating from Wakefield High School in 1955, he joined the United States Navy and traveled with the 7th Fleet to the Far East. Returning to Nebraska, he earned his BA degree at Wayne State. He married Nancy Whitford, taught high school English, earned his MS in sociology at the University of Kentucky, and taught sociology at Northwestern State University in Louisiana. He was an employment counselor for 23 years for the State of Oregon. He retired in 1988 and lived in New Jersey for over 25 years.

After many years as a single father for his two daughters, he and Pat married in 1999. When Pat became Marv’s wife, she also

became the mother-in-love of two daughters as well as grandmother-in-love of his two lovely granddaughters. Marv and Pat have traveled all over the world, separately and together. Marv’s hobbies were reading history, lively discussions of current events, and shooting pool. He was a board member of the Princeton YWCA and, as “Mr. Marvin,” enjoyed 20 years of reading to toddlers at the Y. He was also a member of the Princeton United Methodist Church and the church’s Tiffany Window Tour Team.

Son of the late Wilmar R. and Louise (Konold) Ostberg Kahler, father of the late Carolyn Chun, brother of the late Roger Ostberg and Lyle Kahler, he is survived by his wife of 25 years Patricia (Warren) Ostberg, a daughter Jill Ostberg, son-in-law Jonathan Chun, and two granddaughters, Emily Chun and Hannah Chun He will surely be missed by family and friends, and will be remembered with love and gratitude.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 30, 2024 at the Princeton United Methodist Church, 7 Vandeventer Avenue, Princeton. In Marvin’s memory donations may be given to Save the Children, Doctors Without Borders, or an organization of choice.

www.princetonmagazinestore.com

DIRECTORY OF

RELIGIOUS SERVICES

8:00 am: Holy Communion Rite I

10:00 am: Holy Communion Rite II

5:00 pm: Choral Compline or Evensong

The Rev. Paul Jeanes III, Rector

The Rev. Canon Dr. Kara Slade, Assoc. Rector Wesley Rowell, Lay Pastoral Associate

33 Mercer St. Princeton 609-924-2277 www.trinityprinceton.org

“ Truthfulness is the foundation of all human virtues"-Paris Talks, Abdu'l-Baha

"Without Truthfulness progress and success, in all the worlds of God, are impossible for any soul." -Shoghi Effendi Rabbani

Principles of the Baha'i Faith: One God- the Mover of the Universe

Oneness of Religion

All People are members of One Human Family

Elimination of all forms of prejudice For more information go to: https://princetonbahais.org www.bahai. org/beliefs

TOWN TOPICS CLASSIFIEDS

YARD SALE + TOWN TOPICS CLASSIFIED = GREAT WEEKEND!

Put an ad in the TOWN TOPICS to let everyone know! Call (609) 924-2200 ext. 10; classifi eds@towntopics.com

DEADLINE: Tues before 12 noon tf

As Thanksgiving approaches, I want to take a moment to reflect on the many reasons I’m grateful this year and that includes you. Whether as a client, colleague, or reader, your support and connection have been invaluable to me.

To my clients, thank you for placing your trust in me to help achieve your goals. Your confidence fuels my dedication to delivering my best and continuously growing to meet your needs. To my colleagues and readers, I deeply appreciate your collaboration, insights, and encouragement. Your engagement and feedback make this journey both rewarding and inspiring.

Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate the connections that make life meaningful. While I’m grateful for the progress and milestones we’ve reached, I’m equally excited about the possibilities ahead.

Wishing you and your loved ones a warm and joyful Thanksgiving filled with abundance and happiness. Thank you for being part of my journey!

HOME HEALTH AIDE: 25 years of experience. Available mornings to take care of your loved one, transport to appointments, run errands. I am well known in Princeton. Top care, excellent references. The best! Call (609) 356-2951 or (609) 751-1396. tf

LOLIO’S WINDOW WASHING & POWER WASHING: Free estimate. Next day service. Fully insured. Gutter cleaning available. References available upon request. 30 years experience. (609) 271-8860.

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JOE’S LANDSCAPING INC. OF PRINCETON

Property Maintenance and Specialty Jobs

Commercial/Residential

Over 45 Years of Experience • Fully Insured • Free Consultations Email: joeslandscapingprinceton@ gmail.com

Text (only): (609) 356-9201

Office: (609) 216-7936 Princeton References

• Green Company

HIC #13VH07549500 tf HOME REPAIR SPECIALIST:

Interior/exterior repairs, carpentry, trim, rotted wood, power washing, painting, deck work, sheet rock/ spackle, gutter & roofing repairs. Punch list is my specialty. 40 years experience. Licensed & insured. Call Creative Woodcraft (609) 586-2130

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24/7 PROFESSIONAL

NURSES AND AIDES

Personal care, nutrition, social activities, support, respite care & family relief. Live-in and live-out in the greater Princeton and other NJ areas.

Personal Home Care of Hillsborough (609) 216-5000 or (908) 306-0985

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FOX CLEANING (609) 547-9570

eqfoxcarpetcleaning@gmail.com

Licensed and insured

Residential and commercial

Carpet cleaning and upholestry

Pressure and soft washing • Area rugs

Strip and wax floors • Sanitizing Water damage • Grout cleaning

01-17-25

THE MAID PROFESSIONALS: Leslie & Nora, cleaning experts. Residential & commercial. Free estimates. References upon request. (609) 218-2279, (609) 323-7404. 01-29

FENCE INSTALLATION AND REPAIR

LAND CLEARING AND FALL CLEANUP

Best price on jobs that can start immediately. Fully insured. Call or text: (215) 824-5005. 11-27

PART-TIME HOUSECLEANING AND LAUNDRY. Help with the holidays! Experienced, with excellent references. Please call Ruth at (609) 924-9654. 12-25

CLEANING SERVICES EVERY WEEK, every two weeks or once a month...or even just once! Also on Saturdays and Sundays. I am a responsible person, I do my job conscientiously, I take care of clients’ homes and take their opinions into account. If you need help, call me. I am available anytime. Malgorzata: (609) 594-0991. 12-04

STORAGE UNITS FOR RENT 10 minutes north of Princeton, in Blawenburg, Skillman, Montgomery. Discounted monthly rents: 15x22 $280, 21x22 $330. available. https://princetonstorage.homestead. com or call/text (609) 333-6932. 12/25

I BUY ALL KINDS of old or pretty things: China, glass, silver, pottery, costume jewelry, evening bags, fancy linens, paintings, small furniture, etc. Local woman buyer. (609) 9217469.

10-11-24

BUYING: Antiques, paintings, Oriental rugs, coins, clocks, furniture, old toys, military, books, cameras, silver, costume & fine jewelry. Guitars & musical instruments. I buy single items to entire estates. Free appraisals. (609) 306-0613. tf TOWN TOPICS CLASSIFIEDS

Interior Painting, Exterior Painting, and Drywall Repair

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(609) 799-9211 www.fivestarpaintinginc.com License # 13VH047 Professional, Courteous and 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

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At Greenwood House Hospice, our families and caregivers LOVE HOW MUCH WE CARE! AND YOU WILL, TOO.

am proud and honored to serve as Greenwood House Hospice Medical Director and to work alongside some of the best nurses, social workers, chaplains and volunteers in the business. Our team provides intimate and comprehensive care for our terminally ill patients. We support not just those in their final months but also their families and loved ones.”

– DAVID R. BARILE, MD Medical Director, Greenwood House Hospice

Hospice is about living the fullest life possible according to a patient’s capabilities within a life-limiting condition. In hospice, your choices guide the care we provide. Hospice care affirms quality of life. Our goal is to prevent and relieve pain, discomfort, anxiety and fear.

We provide emotional and spiritual support to patients and their loved ones. Hospice care is provided wherever a patient feels most comfortable or where they call home. We help families and caregivers prepare for endof-life challenges and find creative ways to share in life review and legacy projects so that our patient’s wisdom and memories can be treasured for future generations.

Our Hospice Team consists of:

• Hospice Medical Director, a board-certified hospice physician

• Registered Nurses (RNs) monitoring pain, managing symptoms and guiding patient’s plan of care

• Hospice Certified Home Health Aides (CHHAs) providing personal patient care and companionship

• Social Workers supporting patients and families and connecting them with community resources

• Spiritual Counselors providing emotional support and personal counseling

• Bereavement Services offering guidance and education concerning anticipatory grief to families throughout care and bereavement

• Hospice Volunteers assisting with a variety of patient and family personalized support activities

Greenwood House Hospice is a nonprofit, mission-based organization rooted in cherished Jewish traditions and an industry leader in providing high-quality senior health care in the state of New Jersey. Seniors of all faiths are welcome.

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