Town Topics Newspaper, April 17, 2024.

In 1966 the growing library moved to 65 Witherspoon Street in a building designed by Thaddeus Longstreth. By 2002 the library had a collection of 130,000 books in a building designed for 80,000. After deliberations about siting, a new library was built on the same footprint on With-

“The changes in the building re ected new ways of thinking about libraries,” said Leslie Burger, former Princeton Library executive director and currently interim

several trees, and ve of Terry McGovern and Allie Klapsogeorge’s students decided to collect acorns and sell them in order to raise money to acquire a new tree for the playground.

McGovern suggested that they contact their local Shade Tree Commission (STC) to get some help with the project. Fortunately the Riverside in-house substitute teacher, Raymond DeVoe, also happened to be a member of the STC.

ank you, Princeton! you voted us ‘ Best Landscape Designer ’ three years in a row; 2021-2023!

Distinctive Landscaping n Exceptional Hardscaping n Inspirational Gardens 11x ‘Best of Houzz’, 7x ‘Best of New Jersey House & Home’ winner ronnisgarden.com n 609-844-0066

The public is invited to welcome spring by visiting the Native Plant Nursery at the Johnson Education Center during D&R Greenway’s Spring 2024 Native Plant Sale on Thursday, April 25, 12-4 p.m.; Friday, April 26, 12–3 p.m.; and Saturday, April 27, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

Johnson Education Center and walking the labyrinth.

D&R Greenway’s comprehensive online catalog provides thorough plant descriptions, and pro-tips from D&R Greenway’s stewardship team and can assist you in selecting the right native plants, shrubs, and trees for your garden habitat. Visit drgreenway.org/ shop/native-plants for the full list of available plants.

Planting natives enhances home gardens in natural beauty, attracts butterflies and birds in the landscape, and contributes to protection of a healthy bioregion. The nursery is on the grounds of D&R Greenway’s Conservation Campus at the Johnson Education Center,

One Preservation Place (off Rosedale Road). Native Plant Sale proceeds support D&R Greenway’s preservation and stewardship mission. For more information, visit drgreenway.org.

D&R Greenway’s stewardship team and volunteers will be on hand to help visitors choose the perfect plants that will flourish in different garden soils and conditions. All sales are in person this year and visitors are invited to spend some time to enjoy the beauty of nature by exploring the grounds surrounding the NATIVE PLANT SALE: Beebalm, a favorite treat for pollinators, is among the many native plants available at the spring sale at D&R Greenway’s Johnson Education Center April 25-27.

Road Closure: Witherspoon Street is closed between Quarry Street and Leigh Avenue for the construction of three raised crosswalks and the milling and paving of the roadway. The project is planned to be finished by April 26. Businesses on the street are accessible from John Street.

Recreation Department Summer Jobs : Apply for work at Community Park Pool in customer service, day camp, or on lifeguard staff. Visit Princetonnj.gov/982/ Seasonal-Employment.

Donate Blood : The Red Cross will be at Princeton University’s Frist Campus Center, 75 Washington Road, on April 19 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and St. Paul’s Church, 216 Nassau Street, April 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit RedCrossBlood.org.

Princeton in Bloom Photo Contest : Photos capturing the essence of Princeton in spring can be submitted through April 30 by all residents and visitors to Princeton in this contest sponsored by Experience Princeton. The grand prize winner gets an Experience Princeton gift card; top 10 finalists’ work will be displayed in the Municipal Building. Visit princetonnj.gov. Resource

Council’s Porchfest Returns on April 27, Bringing Live Music to the Streets of Princeton

One musical group’s experience performing in last year’s Porchfest was so enjoyable that the band, Cherry Blossom, is thrilled to be back this year.

A porch host who was a fan before the first notes sounded in 2022 is looking forward to his third year of lending his space.

The Arts Council of Princeton’s Porchfest, now in its third year, seems to be a win-win for both the community and the performers, as audiences walk or bike from porch to porch across local neighborhoods listening to musical sets.

TOPICS Of the Town

This year, the band Cherry Blossoms is back. “We played Porchfest last year and absolutely loved it,” said band member Jedd Lopez, who plays drums. “Our host Kate was incredible and it was such a great experience. Even with the rain, we drew a crowd of over 40 people. I can’t wait to see how this year’s turnout goes.”

Once people discover us, they tend to stay put. It makes sense: most people choose their dentist very carefully—and the closer you look, the better we look. So check us out. Whether you need routine checkups or more comprehensive treatment, we’re confident you’ll want to be our patient for life.

Last year, a dreary rain did not deter audiences. This year, as Porchfest gets underway at noon on Saturday, April 27 — rain or shine — 15 porches will serve as music venues with an average of five performers on each, featuring more than 80 sets, each lasting about 45 minutes. The first year saw 60 bands and 11 porches.

Porch locations vary from downtown homes and businesses to porches in the Witherspoon-Jackson and Riverside neighborhoods, as well as the “tree streets.”

The music spans a wide variety of genres, according to Melissa Kuscin, the Arts Council’s Porchfest coordinator.

The three-piece alt-rock band, based in Princeton, also features Lopez’s brother Chris singing and playing the guitar and their friend Mike on bass. They will be playing at 45 Linden Lane at 4 p.m. What Lopez particularly likes about Porchfest is that “each porch/stage has completely different genres

“The people of Princeton continue to impress me with their willingness to embrace new ideas,” said Kuscin. “As a creative and cultural organization, it’s the Arts Council’s job to innovate on what we bring to the table, reworking and playing with the event model to find the sweet spot of exciting, accessible, and homegrown.”

“Porchfest is only in its third year,” she continued, “but residents step up to make it possible, musicians volunteer their time, and local business get involved in a myriad of ways. That level of investment speaks to the potential of Porchfest and all that we can do as a community when we work together.”

An interactive Porchfest map, with scheduled performances and refreshment options, can be found at artscouncilofprinceton.org/ porchfest. Live music will continue at each location until 5 p.m. The evening will conclude at the Arts Council’s 102 Witherspoon Street porch with a concert by the rock band The Prisms.

HANDHELDS

All sandwiches served with your choice of Kaiser or Brioche Bun

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Continued from Preceding Page playing, so one band can play folk and the next might be rock. You’re really able to discover and hear new music that way. I also love the idea of walking around town and hearing live music everywhere you go. There really isn’t anything like it.”

Lopez said he is looking forward to “walking around and discovering new bands/ artists that make up our local music scene. We play later in the day, so it’ll be great to spend the early afternoon checking out different porches.”

The porch host experience is different, but no less memorable. Ted Nadeau, a three-time Porchfest host, said he had a great time at a Porchfest in Somerville, Mass., where his brother lives, had discussed with Princeton friends bringing one to Princeton. When the Arts Council approved one, “we were happy to volunteer and support it,” he said. “In our experience, each porch is different and great, and everyone there thinks they’re at the best porch. The combination of live music, different musicians, and neighborhood-ness makes it great.”

“We believe in porches,” added Nadeau, “and try to use ours, not just for Porchfest, but anything that encourages porch use is good. It gives people a reason to walk or bike around and see the spring beauty of Princeton.”

Kuscin said that local businesses have remarked they are busy on Porchfest day, and the Arts Council encourages attendees to shop, eat, and drink at nearby businesses. But Porchfest is also about community.

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

Question of the Week:

“What environmental issue is important to you?”

(Asked Saturday at the annual Friends of Herrontown Woods Earth Day Celebration)

(Photos by Sarah Teo)

“A big one, especially for young people, is consumerism. Because of social media, we’re fed this narrative that we have to keep buying and buying. I think it’s really important for my generation, especially, to step back and realize we don’t need to live such maximalist lifestyles but just be happy with what we have.”

—Stephanie

Liao, Princeton

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PJ’S POUTINE Shoestring fries, cheddar cheese curds, brown gravy | 9

PJ’S TENDERS AND FRIES | 9

FLATBREADS

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“Porchfest is good for Princeton because it encapsulates all that is so wonderful about this town,” said Kuscin. “We have the most hospitable folks opening up their homes, small businesses showing off what they do best, and just walking or biking around our beautiful neighborhoods — no matter the weather — is a treat for residents and visitors alike. Local talent abounds around these parts and these performers get a really unique chance to show off their skills.”

Limited edition Porchfest T-shirts are available online for presale. Day-of purchases will be on a first-come, first-served basis at the Arts Council’s porch. All proceeds benefit Arts Council community programs.

Princeton Porchfest is supported by lead sponsor Princeton University, as well as CentralJersey.com, Glenmede, Graduate Hotels, Herring Properties, Lynne and Joe Kossow, Patrick de Maynadier, Lydia and Johan Pfeiffer, Lasley Brahaney Architecture + Construction, NJM, Pedego Electric Bikes,

Bent Spoon, and the Whole Earth Center.

“Biodiversity loss from habitat destruction. We are erasing strands of the intricate and interconnected web of life at an alarming pace and the consequences, known and unknown, are irreversible. Once it’s gone, it’s gone.”

—Allison Gratton of Commonwild Apiary, Princeton

“I’m

Nicole: “Plastic use is so pervasive in everything. I recycle, but it’s making me rethink the way I shop. I try to choose things not in plastic; when I get bulk, I move everything into containers at home.”

Joanna: “Global warming. At the time of the eclipse, I checked where my mom lives in Warsaw, and it was 84 degrees in April and 77 at night — it’s just crazy.”

Lori: “Water quality — I think it’s something everybody should have a lot more awareness of.”

—Nicole Bergman and Joanna Poniz, Princeton with Lori Simon, Lawrenceville

on the board of Herrontown Woods because I believe that local action is important in addition to global. I can’t work on the national energy policy, but I can work here, and I think everyone should participate in whatever way they can.”

—Shefali Shah, West Windsor

FRIDAY, APRIL 26

5:30 pm | Wolfensohn Hall

1 Einstein Drive | Princeton, NJ 08540

Join IAS Director and Leon Levy Professor David Nirenberg for a conversation with artistic director Tamara Rojo and dance historian Jennifer Homans on the place and practice of dance in the past, present, and future of our arts and culture.

Jugtown Proposal Taken Off Agenda

At Historic Commission Meeting

Residents who want to comment on a controversial proposal to build an addition behind 344 Nassau Street in Jugtown will have to wait until mid-May.

The agenda item on the Monday, April 15 meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) was removed late Friday afternoon by the applicant, RB Homes, confirmed Elizabeth Kim, the HPC’s historic preservation officer. A second meeting which had been called for Tuesday, April 16 to hear comments that could not be heard Monday, was canceled.

Crash on Route 1 in South Brunswick Claims Three Lives

A meeting did take place Monday, April 15, and was livestreamed, but without the Jugtown proposal on the agenda. It was noted that RB Homes is making some adjustments to the application, but no details were given. The postponed meeting is a Special Meeting, because the regular May meeting agenda is full, according to the HPC. The entire meeting will be devoted to the Jugtown application, which encompasses a proposal to add a four-story, 15-unit addition, including three affordable units, behind two, two-story 1760s buildings at 344 Nassau Street.

—Wendy Greenberg

Two dates were set for the new meetings, May 14 and 15 at 5 p.m. at Witherspoon Hall, 400 Witherspoon Street.

A fiery crash at Route 1 and Ridge Road in South Brunswick Township that claimed three lives on Friday morning, April 12, is still under investigation, said a South Brunswick police spokesperson on Tuesday.

The accident involved a tractor trailer, a van, and two vehicles, announced the South Brunswick police on Saturday. The deceased were connected with Community Options, which is based in Princeton.

Robert Stack, founder, president and chief executive officer of Community Options, provided a video statement after the accident in which he said, “Today, Community Options lost three souls to a tragic accident, on Route 1 and Ridge Road. Our heart goes out to the two people with severe disabilities who we’ve supported, and the staff person. Our prayers are with their families and all of their loved ones and we are crestfallen and deeply saddened by this horrific event.”

The organization provides “housing and employment opportunities for people with disabilities,” according to its website.

South Brunswick Police Chief Raymond Hayducka said, “This is a tragic day, as three young adults have lost their lives in this horrific crash. To the parents, family, and friends, our hearts go out to you. Please keep everyone involved in your thoughts and prayers tonight.”

According to the police

department press release, the preliminary investigation shows that the crash involved a tractor-trailer that struck a Sprinter van at Ridge Road and Route 1. The Sprinter van then collided with two other vehicles. The Sprinter van and the tractor-trailer traveled another approximately 100 yards north of the intersection and caught fire.

The three who died were pronounced dead at the scene, and their identities have not been released. Route 1 remained closed and did not open until later that night.

Anyone with information is asked to call Officer Bryan Sites of the South Brunswick Police Department at (732) 329-4646 or Sergeant Jonathan Berman of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745-4328.

—Wendy Greenberg

On Saturday, April 20, Princeton Record Exchange will be rocking the 14th annual Record Store Day. Record Store Day (RSD) serves as a celebration of the culture surrounding independently owned record stores. With each passing year, its popularity continues to soar. On this special day, hundreds of limitededition titles are exclusively available at brick-and-mortar record stores like Princeton Record Exchange (PREX).

According to a PREX press release, as society becomes ever more reliant on the virtual world, there seems to be a backlash to the sterility of these interactions. Record stores around the country are experiencing some of their best years ever as the vinyl resurgence steams ahead. Jon Lambert, owner of PREX, has been watching this trend closely. “It is heartening to see the growing interest in physical media,” he said. “Younger folk seem especially to be driving this trend. I can’t help but think that the isolated COVID years were especially difficult on teens. Their joy at being back in a real space, with real objects, among real people is clear.”

The vinyl resurgence is not merely a nostalgic trend; it’s a reality resurgence that has captivated music enthusiasts worldwide.

According to the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America), in 2023, U.S. vinyl revenues topped $1.35 billion, a whopping 450 percent increase from 10 years ago. While many of

these records can be found online or in “big box” stores, the main attraction of RSD is a vast number of titles that are not available anywhere except participating independent record stores. At last count, there are over 400 limited edition titles being released.

Adding to the collectible appeal, most of these records have very limited production runs, typically from 100 to 5,000 pieces. They may be previously unreleased recordings or alternate takes, and are often on colored vinyl, are numbered, have unique packaging or are otherwise special. A complete list of releases can be found on Record Store Day’s website.

As noted on the press release, these records are allocated by the distributors to stores around the country, and the stores don’t know what they’ll receive until just before the day. Typically, PREX orders around 2,000 RSD records each year and gets a very good fill. Consistently ranked as one of the top record stores in the country, PREX has been buying and selling new and used music and movies since 1980.

On RSD, the store opens at 10 a.m., but customers often line up much earlier to maximize their chances of snagging the rarer titles. Last year, several hundred people were waiting at opening, creating a real sense of fun and camaraderie among likeminded music enthusiasts.

Princeton Record Exchange is at 20 Tulane Street. For more information, visit prex.com and follow them on Facebook.

FIRST TH URSDAY S AT

THE FARM

ADISTINCTIVE DINNERSERIES

Hosted at The Farminary, Princeton Theological Seminary’s 21-acre sustainable farm, this series features different scholars, activists, and artists offering short talks or being interviewed over dinner. They are paired with a world-class chef who prepares the meal with a portion of the produce coming straight from the farm. Each event in the series will be capped at 25 people for a more intimate experience.

No big presentations. Just big ideas and delicious food.

May 2, 2024

Carolyn Finney

Black Faces, White Spaces: African Americans’ Representation in the Great Outdoors

Featuring Chef Joe Rocchi

June 6, 2024

Eric Barretto Made with Love: Theology, Identity and the Table

Jones

Aug 1, 2024

Heath Carter Seeds of Discord: Christianity, Democracy, and Our Present Crisis

Charles Rosen

Oct 3, 2024

Aminah Al-Attas Bradford Good Trouble: The Intersections of Religion, Microbiology, Ecology and Race

Featuring Chef Salvatore Riccobono

The Earth is Not a Warehouse: Practicing Regenerative Agriculture

Featuring Chef Gabby Aron

Sept 5, 2024

Elaine James A Fresh Take on Freshwater Crises: How the Old Testament Sheds New Light

Featuring Chef Margo Carner

Nov 7, 2024

Rebecca Nagle

Contemporary Indigenous Storytelling: Exploring the History Being Made Today

bit.ly/firstThursdays

Featuring Chef Jesse

Featuring Chef James Graham

Library continued from page one director of the American Library Association. The former building was starting to show its age, she said. “There was not a lot of places for people to gather. The thinking had been ‘in and out,’ come get your book and bring it back later.”

Burger will participate on a panel with Harry Levine, former library board chair, and architect Nicholas Garrison who led a design team from Hillier Architecture (now Studio Hillier). The panel, moderated by Tim Quinn, the library’s director of marketing and communications, is titled “How We Built This.”

“We had done planning for children and adult programs, and wanted opportunities for people to spend time in the library,” Burger said. “We wanted an engaging space for kids, story hours, crafts, homework, a space designated for teens.”

The library as a community living room was becoming a national trend, but Princeton was ahead of the trend, she said, adding that Princeton served as a national model for the “customerfriendly” library.

But, Burger added, “there were many hurdles that had to be overcome,” including environmental issues during excavation, and fundraising. Hinds Plaza was previously a surface parking lot, the Spring Street garage was later built.

“It was labeled as a gathering community space, to become part of the larger community, outside your home, and that concept

took off,” said Burger. Garrison, now of Garrison Studio in Princeton, noted that the old building was designed at a time when the libraries were for “guarding content,” and “the library wasn’t engaging the neighborhood. That was the catalyst for all that glass,” he said.

The spiral staircase in the Longstreth building was “beloved by many,” Garrison conceded. But the threestory Sands staircase has its own fans. Although the intention was to put a children’s area on the first floor, “by the time we got to the Community Room and loading dock, there was no room for it,” he said. “We tried to create something where a kid would want to go upstairs.” With the nautical staircase theme, “you can sit at the landing and look over the library, like you are in the front of a boat. It really worked. Kids gravitate toward it.”

Levine recalled that “there were two big controversies: Where should it be located and where should people park?” What tipped the decision to set it downtown was the desire to “anchor downtown with active public use,” he said.

“Many people still refer to it as the new building, and it’s 20 years old,” said Levine. “It’s a testament to the design of the building. It was designed to be a lively flexible building when we first designed it 25 years ago. The only thing we can anticipate with library usage is that it is likely to change so it is designed to change.... A flexible building will accommodate change with

the least amount of physical alterations.”

Construction of the 55,000-square-foot Sands Library Building began in 2002 to replace a 27,000-square-foot building from the mid-1960s. The total cost of the building was $18 million. The former Princeton Borough and Princeton Township provided $1.92 million and $4.08 million, respectively, in public funding, according to a library press release. The Princeton Public Library Foundation (now the Friends and Foundation of Princeton Public Library) raised $10.3 million in private funds in a capital campaign. The State of New Jersey provided just under $2.2 million in bond funding and the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library provided $100,000 to support technology.

As part of the celebration, the library will host a oneday exhibition, “It Was 20 Years Ago Today,” on April 24 from 1-9 p.m. in the Community Room featuring photos of the opening day by Cie Stroud. The photos “perfectly capture the sense of anticipation and excitement the community felt about the ‘new’ Princeton Public Library,” said Quinn.

In another event, library staff member Anna Lewis will give a tour of Ik-Joong Kang’s Happy World, beginning at 5 p.m. One of the signature pieces of public art in the Sands Library Building, Happy World was a collaboration between the artist and the Princeton community, which contributed artifacts to the mural. At 6 p.m., library staff

will blow out the candles on a cake from Delizioso Bakery+Kitchen and show short films by Lambertville filmmaker Tom Florek about the history, art, and architecture of the library, including the short film, How Do You Say Library? featuring some of the Princeton Public Schools students who contributed world language tiles to Happy World.

The panel discussion with Burger, Levine, and Garrison, which will be streamed on the library’s YouTube channel, will follow the films at 7 p.m.

“I’m looking forward to returning to Princeton to help celebrate this milestone,” said Burger, who served as executive director until 2016. “It has been a joy to watch the Princeton Public Library continually evolve to meet the needs of every community resident. It’s my hope that this library will continue to change, model, and lead the way for others well into the future.”

—Wendy Greenberg

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Find us on the web from your office!

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MC Announces Second Phase of Loan Program

Mercer County Executive Dan Benson and the Board of County Commissioners have announced that the county will partner for a second phase with UCEDC to establish a 0 percent Interest Loan Program for small businesses in Mercer County.

Dedicating an additional $240,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars, to be administered through the Mercer County Office of Economic Development, the program will allow Mercer County businesses to apply for affordable access to capital. The UCEDC will provide loans on a first-come, firstserved basis utilizing current lending products and capital.

“Small businesses represent the life blood of our local economy here in Mercer County,” said Benson. “In extending our interest-free loan program, we are excited to give our Mercer County small businesses a meaningful jolt to spur economic development.”

“We are thrilled that Mercer County is extending UCEDC’s contract, leveraging another $500K in interest-free loans, said UCEDC President Adam Farrah. “This will provide more assistance to entrepreneurs, building on the $750K we’ve already distributed through our partnership. It’s a privilege to contribute to the success of Mercer County small businesses and make a

The program will require the following: Businesses must be located in Mercer County, registered with the State of New Jersey, and must have been formed on or before September 1, 2019; businesses must have 30 fulltime equivalent employees or less at time of application and have less than $10 million in annual gross revenue based on most recent tax return; loans will range from $10,000 to $20,000; loans will be offered at 0 percent interest, with a five-year repayment term; funds can be used for working capital, inventory, or purchases of furniture and equipment; no collateral requirements, pre-payment penalties, processing, closing, or application fees will be required; personal guarantees of the significant owners of the business (10 percent or greater) are required; and applicants must not have had a bankruptcy or significant charge-offs within the most recent 3-year period.

Based on the maximum loan amount of $20,000 and the parameters above, Mercer County will provide funding to approximately 26 businesses in the target market. For more information and to apply, visit mercercounty.org.

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BOOK LAUNCH & AUTHOR DISCUSSION

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APRIL 21, 2024 APRIL 21, 2024

11:30AM - 1:00PM 11:30AM - 1:00PM

APRIL 21, 2024 APRIL 21, 2024

11:30AM - 1:00PM

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PRINCETON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, FELLOWSHIP HALL

PRINCETON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, FELLOWSHIP HALL

7 VANDEVENTER AVENUE, PRINCETON, NJ 08542

7 VANDEVENTER AVENUE, PRINCETON, NJ 08542

LIGHT REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED REFRESHMENTS BE

PRINCETON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, FELLOWSHIP HALL METHODIST CHURCH, FELLOWSHIP

7 VANDEVENTER AVENUE, PRINCETON, NJ 08542

7 VANDEVENTER AVENUE, PRINCETON, NJ 08542

LIGHT REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED

LIGHT REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED

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Young Afghan Woman Continues Her Journey, With Love of Education and Help From Friends

Much has been written recently about the daunting challenges of education — financial, pedagogical, political — from elementary school through college and graduate school. Our society questions relentlessly the value of education in schools and universities.

The story of Sakina Hassani, a Fulbright Scholar from Afghanistan, and her supporters, two Princetonarea nonprofit organizations in particular, might shed new light on the importance of education and what it sometimes takes to acquire that education.

Hassani, a young woman on track to complete a master’s degree in data analytics at Clark University in Worcester, Mass., next month, recalled her early education as a girl growing up in Kabul, Afghanistan, in the early 2000s before the 2021 Taliban takeover.

“I realized that going to school is not some routine daily activity,” she said in a phone conversation earlier this month. “It’s a big thing, because in Afghanistan women or girls who go to school were seen as not good people. My mother asked, ‘Do you need to go to school? It’s not a good thing for girls in Afghanistan.’ I realized that education is a big thing. When you see barriers you understand the value better. We went to school and I noticed that people did not talk positively behind my back.”

Hassani completed high school and was eager to go to one of the government universities in Afghanistan. Long before that time, when she was 9 years old, she had already decided she wanted to be a psychologist.

“I asked my sister, ‘What is a psychologist?’” she said. “I knew they are the people who can help others and give advice and have good relationships with people. I realized that I’m good at talking to people, and I could be a psychologist.”

Hassani was sure that her parents would not allow her to go to university, and her mother confirmed that. “Your father is not going to allow you to go, and you know that people don’t say good things about girls who go to university,” Hassani’s mother declared. She decided to confront her father. “It was like a scene in a movie, in front of my eyes always,” she said. “I went into the room where my father was sitting.” She told him she wanted to register for the entrance exam and go to university.

“There was a long, long silence,” she recalled. “Then he said, ’Go ahead and register for the exam. We’ll talk about the next step later.’ I was so excited. The whole night I couldn’t sleep. I took the exam. I made choices for programs, and the first was psychology, and I was so excited when I got my first choice. And this time I didn’t ask my parents. I told them, ‘I got accepted to the psychology program, and I’m going to go to the university.’”

Hassani completed her bachelor’s degree in Afghanistan, and started working as the human resources

manager at International Assistance Mission (IAM), which she described as the first NGO (nongovernmental organization) in Afghanistan. She was reading books on her own, but realized that she needed to learn more. She needed to study organizational psychology, which was not available in Afghanistan.

Hassani did not know if her parents would allow her to go abroad, but she did know that even if they acquiesced they did not have the money to pay for graduate school abroad. She found out about the Fulbright program and during the process of applying for a Fulbright scholarship, she was told about another scholarship opportunity through the Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO), a longtime supporter of international women seeking graduate degrees in the U.S. and Canada. She won scholarships from both organizations, and she was accepted into the master’s program in industrial and organizational psychology at St. Cloud State University in Minnesota.

“The first semester was really, really tough,” she said. The Minnesota weather was not the problem. She loved the cold weather and the snow, but in addition to the challenges of the English language, there were a few gaps in her academic background, including statistics, which she had to learn from scratch on her own. She graduated in 2021 with a 4.0 average.

“I love education,” she said. “I spend as much time on it as I can. Learning and doing my assignments is not just doing the assignments to turn them in. For me the assignments and being in class are about learning. I take all opportunities to learn.”

She continued, “My plan and Fulbright’s plan was to go back to Afghanistan. My heart wanted to go back to Afghanistan. People in Afghanistan need me more, I thought. I’m going to go back.”

Maureen Llort

It was at this point, shortly before Hassani returned to Kabul, that Maureen Llort, a former resident of Skillman and Hopewell, met Hassani, who spoke via Zoom to Llort’s Princeton chapter of the PEO about her time in the U.S., her family and life in Afghanistan, and her plans to return home.

”She was clearly a standout, a real change-maker,” Llort wrote in a subsequent GoFundMe narrative helping raise funds for Hassani. “We were all so proud to be her sponsors. Not only was Sakina a PEO International Peace Scholar, she was also a Fulbright Scholar, the best of the best.”

In a recent phone conversation Llort added, “She talked about her home, her family, her education, her dreams for Afghanistan, all the things she was hoping to do when she went back. It’s a big deal to have an education like this. She was returning home with dreams for her future and her country. She had this bubbly, engaging personality. We

thought she was terrific.”

Hassani returned to Afghanistan and was working happily in a leadership position at IAM when, just two and a half months after her return, the government fell to the Taliban, and everything changed.

“That was one of the two worst days of my life,” said Hassani, as quoted in LLort’s GoFundMe narrative. “All Afghans, including me, were feeling left behind. It was so tough to be broken on the inside but to look like I was fine and strong on the outside for my family and co-workers.”

Hassani received encouraging emails and messages from friends in the U.S. She knew that she eventually wanted to earn a degree in data analysis either online or back in the U.S. She was hoping for the situation in Afghanistan to improve, but things continued to deteriorate, especially for women seeking to work or study outside the house, and particularly for her as a Hazara, a member of a persecuted ethnic group.

“I saw that the situation was getting worse,” she said. “I was not worried about myself, but I was worried about putting my colleagues and my family at risk. I was going to the office, and I was wearing the same clothes I wore before the government collapsed. That was how I could show that I didn’t agree with the Taliban.”

She added, “You know if things change your life, education gives you freedom. It’s all about your mindset. I needed to get out of Afghanistan and come to the U.S.”

To Pakistan, Then the U.S.

The next stop on her dangerous journey was Pakistan. Under Taliban rule, women are not allowed to be out in public except with a male family member. Hassani fled to Pakistan with a friend and her friend’s father. She posed as his daughter. He returned to Afghanistan the next day, and in Islamabad she shared an apartment with her friend, continued to work, remotely, for IAM during the day, and applied to U.S. graduate schools in the evenings.

In the meantime, Llort, using her many years of experience in development and fundraising, had done some major detective work to locate Hassani again and was looking for sources to help Hassani complete the necessary paperwork and find the funds to get to the U.S.

“This totally amazing person was doing everything she could to keep her spirits up,” said Llort. “She was trying everything she could.”

While living and working in Islamabad, Hassani received her acceptance letter for the data analytics master’s program at Clark University. She had only eight or nine days to respond, and to be able to qualify for a visa she had to document that she had enough money to pay her educational and living expenses for a whole year.

“At the moment when we were talking, she had zero,” said Llort. “The only way I can describe this is that it

was a God moment. We’d come this far and I said, ‘We’re gonna do this. We’re going to raise this money.’ And we managed to raise $43,000 in eight days.”

The PEO Princeton chapter, and four other chapters throughout the country that had been supporting Hassani, came through again with significant contributions. Many of Llort’s friends from the Nassau Presbyterian Church and others in the Princeton community chipped in. Friends of Hassani from Minnesota, one of whom ran a GoFundMe, all contributed. Her mentor John Fennig, a Minnesota consulting psychologist, reached out to colleagues and friends, many of whom had met Hassani on Zoom, and Fulbright contacts also donated.

And in only eight days, “it happened like a miracle,” said Hassani. Another major benefactor was the Afghan Girls Financial Assistance Fund (AGFAF), a Skillman-based nonprofit that not only provided financial support, but also helped to shepherd Hassani through the complexities of an interview at the American Embassy in Islamabad, which ultimately led to the acquisition of a passport and visa.

At Clark University and Beyond

Hassani flew from Islamabad to the U.S., and in January 2023 started classes at Clark, working towards her second master’s degree, and, according to LLort, “She is safe. She is free. And she’s earning straight As.”

“I’m enjoying the school year,” said Hassani. “Every class I take I love. I don’t know what area or industry I will end up in, but one thing I’m sure about is that I will be a person, an entrepreneur, who creates jobs for women, especially in countries like Afghanistan, and who supports women’s education. I want to continue this great chain of support which I’ve received so far from PEO, from others, and the psychology community. I want to do the same and contribute to other people’s education.”

Hassani is currently pursuing an internship at the International Coaching Federation, and she might work full time there after completing her master’s next month. “That’s exactly where I can use both master’s degrees and my work background,” she said, describing “an amazing project” she’s working on and “super-supportive team members.”

For now Hassani will be staying in the U.S. “I cannot return to Afghanistan while the Taliban is ruling,” she said. “Girls are not going to school and are not going to work.”

Llort described some of the frustrations and rewards of her philanthropic work. “There’s so much you want to do in the world, and there’s so much wrong, and you feel helpless,” she said. “Then there’s this one person in front of you, and you think, ‘Well, I can do that.’”

She continued, “We know what happens if I do nothing, so I’m going to do something, and we’ll see. It was an amazing outpouring of love from so many people. I’ve been passionate about a few things in life, and Sakina was one of them.”

—Donald Gilpin

“BEST OF THE BEST”: Sakina Hassani, left, from Afghanistan will be completing her second master’s degree next month at Clark University and is looking to make her mark in the world of industrial psychology. With extraordinary philanthropic endeavors and much moral support, Maureen Llort, right, has assisted Hassani’s heroic journey from Afghanistan to the

achievement of her educational goals in the U.S. (Photo courtesy of Maureen Llort)

In late September the children wrote a letter to the STC, expressing their desire to add trees to their playground and stating in part, “We know you are working towards a town full of trees, and we would like to do the same starting in our small school community.” They signed the letter “Some kids wanting to save the Earth.”

It worked. The STC introduced and passed a resolution to contribute $500 to the project, the Princeton Education Foundation pledged a matching grant at about the same time, and the fourth graders’ project was underway.

“This was a fabulous community project,” said DeVoe.

“In addition to being exactly what our Shade Tree Commission’s main message is, to try and raise awareness of the importance of trees and the tree canopy to our community, this also enabled and empowered the children to learn that they can make a difference in and have a powerfully positive influence on their community.”

Municipal Arborist Taylor Sapudar made a number of visits to the school, providing recommendations on species of trees and location. After several conversations with the fourth graders, they narrowed down their species wish list to two, sweet birch and redbud.

“I’m happy the children took the initiative on this project and persevered,” said McGovern, as quoted in

a press release. “They spent so much of their free time, and many of their recesses, writing to the STC, having meetings with Mr. Achtau, our principal, to ask permission, discussing types of trees. It was quite the community involvement learning experience.”

Riverside Principal Max Achtau agreed. “I’m incredibly proud of our fourth graders,” he said. “These trees demonstrate the great spirit of community in our Riverside children and a level of dedication I really admire.”

On the day when the trees were delivered and planted early last week, the fourth graders assisted by scooping shovelfuls of dirt to support the healthy young trees in their new homes.

“It was really a memorable

experience and we had a lot of fun doing it,” said 10-yearold Eleanor Tannous.

“Seeing our students’ enthusiasm over the past several months has been inspiring to watch,” said Klapsogeorge. “I am so proud of our fourth graders and their passion towards making change with the help of our Riverside community. Have no doubt this group of students will carry this positive leadership experience with them and continue making our world a better place.”

Taking an even broader perspective, DeVoe noted, “It is a delightful notion that these trees might, once mature, provide a sense of pride among this year’s Riverside fourth graders if they bring their future families and children to the playground and say, ‘My fourth grade class planted those trees.’”

Fourth grader Lila Depenbrock also reflected on their accomplishment. “It was a fun process. When the trees went in I could tell the class was so excited,” she said. “I always loved when Mr. DeVoe came into the classroom giving us updates month by month. It was so cool how the process grew, and now we are here. We can come back in a few years and see those beautiful trees that we know we planted.”

Fourth grader Quinn Arrington contemplated the results of the project: “If we all plant one tree, slowly but surely I believe the Earth will recover. If we all help, one tree at a time, together we can save our planet, and therefore save ourselves.”

—Donald Gilpin

Siso Stentz Expected to Be Named PPS Asst. Sup. of HR

Angela Siso Stentz, Johnson Park Elementary School principal since 2020, will be recommended at tonight’s April 17 Princeton Public Schools’ (PPS) special Board of Education meeting to become the next assistant superintendent for human resources, according to a recent PPS announcement.

If approved, Siso Stentz would finish the school year as Johnson Park principal and move into her new position, with an annual salary of $190,000, on July 1. Rebecca Gold, who has served as interim assistant superintendent for human resources since 2021, is scheduled to step down on July 1.

“Dr. Siso Stentz’s administrative experience, her positivity, her energy, and her knowledge of the district make her an excellent fit for this job,” said PPS Acting Superintendent Kathie Foster. Foster thanked Gold for her service to the district and noted that Gold would be working closely with Siso Stentz “to ensure a smooth transition in July.”

Foster added that the district will be soliciting input from educators, parents, and community members as the search process for the next Johnson Park principal gets underway.

Siso Stentz has worked in the PPS district since 1999, beginning as a special education teacher in math and Spanish, serving as supervisor of guidance from 2008 to 2018, then a brief stint as PHS assistant principal before taking charge as principal at Johnson Park.

She holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Rider University, a master of arts in education from Gratz College in Melrose Park, Pa., and a bachelor of arts degree, with a major in political science and Spanish, from Rutgers University.

NJ Tree Recovery Campaign

Provides Free Tree Seedlings

Free native tree seedlings will be given away on Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Cavallo Park, 2 Mt. Hope Street, Lambertville, by Lambertville Goes Wild and the Lambertville Environmental Commission. Seedlings come with instructions on how to store, care for, and plant the trees. The instructions also help identify the right place to plant each seedling given the specific needs and expected mature size of the species. The seedlings should be planted within two days after pickup to prevent the roots from drying out.

When properly planted and maintained, trees can be important assets to a community. They help mitigate flood potential, reduce home cooling costs, improve visual appeal of neighborhoods and business districts,

increase property values, remove air pollutants, and provide wildlife habitat.

The seedling giveaway is part of the New Jersey Forest Service’s New Jersey Tree Recovery Campaign, which is now entering its 12th year. The campaign has distributed over 828,000 tree seedlings to New Jersey residents to date. With natural disasters like Hurricanes Sandy and Ida and the damage caused by several invasive insects, New Jersey needs more new tree seedlings than ever before. The program is a joint effort between Lambertville, Urban and Community Forestry Program, New Jersey Forest Service Nursery, New Jersey Soil Conservation Districts, Arbor Day Foundation, FedEx, Texpo Energy, and Tomorrow Energy. For a list of all distribution locations across the state, visit forestry.nj.gov.

Birth Center at St. Peters Receives Reaccreditation

The Mary V. O’Shea Birth Center at Saint Peter’s University Hospital has been reaccredited through 2026 by the Commission for the Accreditation of Birth Centers (CABC). The state-of-the-art Birth Center is New Jersey’s first birth center to be located on the grounds of a hospital and is also the location of Saint Peter’s midwifery practice, where prenatal office visits, birthing classes, and the actual birthing experience take place. The Birth Center has delivered 228 babies since its opening in November 2019. Re-accreditation signifies that the Mary V. O’Shea Birth Center’s services are in substantial compliance with the CABC alongside Maternity Center Standards and the MotherFriendly Childbirth Initiative Criteria. Eligibility is assessed according to a variety of standards including Organization and Community, Model of Care Facility, Equipment and Supplies, Health Record, and Continuous Quality Improvement.

The Mary V. O’Shea Birth Center at Saint Peter’s is designed for women who are looking for a more physiologic childbirth experience under the care of certified nurse-midwives. A variety of nonpharmaceutical pain management options are offered including hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, and nerve stimulation. The center is also equipped with various tools including birth balls, peanut balls, and birth stools to facilitate a variety of different position options in labor. Central to the experience is the mother’s birth plan. Throughout the pregnancy, expectant mothers document their personal preferences and wishes for how the labor should progress — everything from designating support individuals in attendance to labor expectations and preferences for medical intervention, should the need arise.

“We offer a home-like setting for patients and a focus on patient-centered care that is grounded in shared decision-making,” said Katelyn Rasmus, CNM, MSN, RNCOB, CEFM, midwifery clinical director at Saint Peter’s. “The reaccreditation of the Mary V. O’Shea Birth Center is a testament to the high-quality care we provide through our midwifery practice.”

To learn more, visit saintpetershcs.com/midwiferyservices or call (732) 339-7879.

SAVING THE PLANET: Fourth graders at Riverside Elementary School successfully completed a year-long fundraising and tree-planting project last week, with some help from the Princeton Shade Tree Commission and the Princeton Education Foundation. (Photo by Janet Walder)

Angela Siso Stentz

IAS’ Avi Wigderson

continued from page one

Wigderson, as quoted in an IAS press release, described his four decades in the field as “a continuous joyride, with fun problems, brilliant researchers.”

Google Senior Vice President Jeff Dean, as quoted in an ACM press release, claimed that Wigderson’s work had “set the agenda in theoretical computer science for the past three decades.”

Dean pointed out, “From the earliest days of computer science, researchers have recognized that incorporating randomness was a way to design faster algorithms for a wide range of applications. Efforts to better understand randomness continue to yield important benefits to our field, and Wigderson has opened new horizons in this area.”

He went on, “Google also salutes Wigderson’s role as a mentor. His colleagues credit him with generating great ideas and research directions, and then motivating a new generation of smart young researchers to work on them.”

The IAS press release pointed out that Wigderson is part of a long tradition of computational research at the Institute. Founding IAS faculty member John von Neumann’s Electronic Computer Project, launched in 1945, resulted in the construction at IAS of one of the world’s first storedprogram computers. That computer represented the practical manifestation of the foundations of computing set forth by British mathematician Alan M. Turing, who gives his name to the Turing Award.

“Ever since von Neumann’s IAS computer project turned Turing’s theoretical computational model into a reality

that launched the computing revolution, theorists following their curiosity and mathematical insights have paved the way for the new computing technologies we all use,” said Nirenberg. “Avi has continued that tradition at the Institute for the past quarter century.”

Wigderson, 67, earned his Ph.D. from Princeton University in 1983 in what was then the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Prior to joining the IAS faculty he held academic appointments at a number of universities, including the Hebrew University of Jerusalem (19862003) and Princeton (199092).

Jennifer Rexford, Princeton provost and engineering professor, as quoted in a University press release, described Wigderson as “a giant in the field of theoretical computer science, bringing fundamental insights to deep questions about what can — or cannot — be computed efficiently.” She added, “He is also a wonderful colleague and a longtime friend of the University.”

—Donald Gilpin

United Way Event Helps

Increase Diabetes Prevention

United Way of Greater Mercer County (UWGMC) recently partnered with the Diabetes Foundation to host an inaugural Spring into Health event at The Capital Area YMCA in Trenton.

More than 60 families received A1C testing, visual and blood pressure screenings, and bags of fresh produce along with tips on healthy eating. UWGMC staff also assisted Trenton residents with NJ SNAP applications, which provide monthly food assistance to families.

“The community event was a success,” said Sandra Toussaint, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Mercer County. “Eight individuals found out through screenings they had diabetes or were at risk. These individuals will now be able to identify solutions and access the care they need. This is why UWGMC does this work. We want to ensure a healthier community by removing barriers to equitable access to diabetes prevention, care, and management.”

Other community organizations and health care providers that helped make Spring into Health event possible included Arm In Arm, Capital Health, Henry J. Austin, Isles, HomeFront, Isles, Millhill Child & Family Development, Salvation Army, and the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen.

Lambertville Public Library Named

Finalist For IMLS National Medal

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) recently announced that the Lambertville Free Public Library is among 30 finalists for the 2024 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that demonstrate

PREVENTING DIABETES: United Way of Greater Mercer County’s recent Spring into Health event at The Capital Area YMCA in Trenton provided key health information to more than 60 families. excellence in service to their communities.

“To be named as a finalist for this prestigious National Medal not only honors the Lambertville Library’s outstanding staff and trustees, but also the many hundreds of community-minded individuals as well as civic and governmental organizations that participate in, contribute to, and support our programs, activities, and services,” said Lambertville Library Director Jennifer Sirak. “We thank Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) for nominating us, and we gratefully acknowledge the New Jersey State Library for supporting us through the nominating process.”

The COVID-19 pandemic and the losses and dislocations from Hurricane Ida flooding in September 2021 prompted the Lambertville Library to devise innovative ways to interact with and support the public, especially the city’s growing

Spanish-speaking population. These groundbreaking outreach efforts gradually forged strong connections between the Hispanic community, the library, local schools and government, local and regional service organizations, and the city at large. The establishment of the library-sponsored Latinas en Lambertville led to the city’s first-ever Oaxaca Festival in 2022 that showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Hispanic community, bringing together over 100 Hispanic and non-Hispanic volunteers and attracting over 500 attendees. Further synergies of communication and cooperation produced a second, even grander Oaxaca Festival in 2023.

“We are proud of all that our Hispanic community members have done to enrich the city’s social fabric,” said Trina Bardusco, Lambertville Library’s head of Hispanic Programming. “The community-wide bridges we are building have created a warm sense of belonging that has touched so many hearts and lives in our small town. This IMLS honor highlights what the flexibility and creativity of a small, independent library in concert with a caring community can accomplish.”

National Medal winners will be announced in late May followed by a National Medals Ceremony this summer. To see the list of 15 libraries and 15 museums that are finalists for this 30th annual award, and to learn more about the National Medal, visit the imls.gov.

Voting in Mercer County Is Topic of Presentation

more convenient for voters to cast a vote, and why it is safe to do so. They will also demonstrate how to use the new Dominion touch screen voting machines and scanners that Mercer County now uses in all towns on Election Day.

Advanced registration is appreciated for all events. The Lawrence Headquarters Branch of the Mercer County Library System is located at 2751 Brunswick Pike. For more information, visit mcl.org.

Applications Open for MC Student Internship Program

Applications are now open for the 2024 Mercer County Student Internship Program. High school and college students who live, or attend school, in Mercer County may apply to a wide range of fulltime and part-time internship positions. Internship opportunities are available over the summer from June through Labor Day, with a limited number of spots also available over the Winter Break and Spring Break periods.

“I’m excited for the Mercer County Student Internship Program to return this year,” said County Executive Dan Benson. “These positions offer us an opportunity to engage our next generation of leaders in the important work of county government. We all benefit from the energy and enthusiasm that they bring to the work.”

With a presidential election year underway, the Lawrence Headquarters Branch of the Mercer County Library System will host a presentation on Tuesday, May 21 at 6 p.m. that will explain the three ways to vote in New Jersey, as well as the safeguards that are in place through voting systems in Mercer County. The presenters are Mercer County Clerk Paula Sollami Covello, Superintendent of Elections Walker M. Worthy Jr., and Board of Elections Chair Jill Moyer. They will review the voter registration process as well as the dates and locations for early voting, and how to vote by mail. They will explain how these options will make it

Students in the program will have the opportunity to serve the public by assisting the core day-to-day work of a department or division within the Mercer County government, while acquiring valuable experience for their future careers. Participants will also benefit from a series of activities planned by the Office of Personnel, curated to teach valuable skills, enhance workforce preparedness, and provide information about career paths in public service. Interested students can visit the Mercer County website at mercercounty.org to apply, find information on the program, and read details on available positions.

College students will be paid $17/hour and high school students will earn $15.14/hour. All applicants must be at least 15 years of age. Students seeking to earn credits for their college or university have the option of working without pay. The application deadline for Summer Student Internships is May 3. Get the scoop from

Avi Wigderson (Photo by Cliff Moore, IAS)

Sharing Memories of Summers at Nassau Swim Club, a Special Place

To the Editor: it is difficult to put in words the emotions I feel as Nassau Swim Club (NSC) is shut down by Princeton University. From age 7 to 17 (1975-85) the NSC community was my summer family. It sounds like the community support has not allowed this hallowed institution to continue. Shame on Princeton University for not supporting this place that was a summer home of so many of their staff and families over past 50+ years. There are some things that are more important than money and this is one of them.

I remember waiting anxiously for summer to start every year to see and catch up with everyone. One of my best summer friends was Marc Nystrom, who was the son of longtime coach Bruce Nystrom. They lived in Richmond, Va., and came up every summer and lived in Institute for Advanced Study housing. My older sister and I would literally ride our bikes 10 miles every day early in the morning to start the day with running laps, swim practice, then diving practice for me, maybe a hotdog and chips from Wawa, and back to the pool for games.

I also learned the true meaning of team. Winning a swim meet is truly a team effort. Throughout the summer we would lose various superstars for a week or two here or there for camp or family vacation, but we still managed to field a powerhouse team year in and year out. I lifeguarded for many years at Community Park Pool, a much bigger competitor, and there was nothing there anywhere close to the family and community vibe we had at NSC. Long live the memories of Nassau! What a special place.

JOHN CUMMINGS Marion Road

Those Who Were Part of NSC Shared Something Meaningful That Will Endure

To the Editor: I grew up in Princeton in the late 1970s and 80s, but it may be more accurate to say that I grew up at Nassau Swim Club. My family joined Nassau when I was 10, and it was an enormous part of every summer of my life (first on the swim team, and later coaching and lifeguarding) for the 10 years that followed. The culture of the place, as well as its location, were a little off the beaten path — a reflection of Bruce Nystrom, the manager and face of the pool for so many years. It was a welcoming place where I learned the importance of sportsmanship and hard work. I also learned the value of levity amid both. I looked up to my coaches, and later became one. I eyed the record board with awe, before claiming one, then watching it fall to someone I had coached. The circle of life.

I was teammates with some really strong swimmers, and some less so, became friends with folks from neighboring towns, with many kids older and younger than me, and got to know parents and families. It shaped me, and many others. I’m disappointed that this chapter is closing, and I also know nothing lasts forever. But those who were a part of it for any of the past 50 summers shared something meaningful and special that will endure, even as its gates close.

MATT SANDERSON Lemming, formerly of Alexander Street

Sustainable Princeton Volunteer Shares Thanks, Tips for Proper Recycling

To the Editor:

I want to thank the team from Sustainable Princeton for helping to run and encouraging participation in Princeton’s Household Recycling and S.H.R.E.D.fest event on Saturday, April 13. It was my first time as a volunteer and my role was to help remove stickers and adhesives from the various pieces of Styrofoam that were donated so the recycling process would not be corrupted, then getting the Styrofoam into large plastic bags for delivery to an organization that processes them into picture frames (betterframe.org). It was harder than I thought, but was rewarding and great to see so many people participating. Here are a few simple items that I think everyone should be aware of:

Check out this Princeton municipal website for a summary of events to properly dispose of items — note that there is a Hazardous & Electronics waste event coming up on June 8 with a link to the flyer with more details at princetonnj.gov/449/Recycling-in-Princeton.

Before throwing batteries in the garbage, look at all the local options that can be found at call2recycle.org.

Confirm that your curbside paper and plastic recycling is only plastics with symbols #1 or #2, and remove food, liquid, labels, and adhesives.

Don’t put any of these items out for the curbside pickup: plastic shopping bags, light bulbs, Styrofoam, aluminum foil, or pizza boxes if they have any food or grease.

And go to sustainableprinceton.org for more information on how you can get involved!

BOB LIS Greenland Court

Former Resident Notes That There Is No Other Swim Cub Like Nassau

To the Editor:

How does one sum up a childhood of summer memories?

Where does one form lifelong friendships well into old age?

Where are life lessons experienced along with swim lessons, getting along and developing into one large family?

Why does one need DEI training when you’ve grown up at Nassau Swim Club?

Residing in Richmond, Va., as a parent of three children, I went in search of a “Nassau Swim Club” in the area for my children. Surely there was a small, family oriented pool offering swim lessons, a swim team, and the family atmosphere and camaraderie I experienced growing up at Nassau. Two years later, having joined our local club, I came to the realization that Nassau was itself its own entity.

Nassau — a hole in the ground of a pool, located down a winding gravel potholed road hidden in the woods, who would ever think this small swim club could amount to much? It wasn’t about winning at all costs, though we won our fair share of PASDA Championships, it was about the team, the family in which we all shared. It was the passion for the sport that caused many of us to swim 10 months during the off-season just to be at our best for the

summer league season. It was about reuniting with our friends whom we hadn’t seen since last summer. It was the progression of being the youngest to the oldest and eventually that coach/swim instructor and lifeguard whom we all admired for so long.

For our parents it was knowing we were outside each day, active, learning a lifelong skill, making friends and happy. There was no place we wanted to be, but at Nassau.

One summer day my father announced we would be spending the day at a local country club swimming, playing tennis and golf. He was attempting to lure us away from our Nassau. Obviously, it was out of the question. These country club folks didn’t know anything about playing Rackety Poo, swimming relays widthwise, Marco Polo with the diving board, or flipping handstands into the pool. They simply had far too many silly rules and were constantly running to the snack bar!

Nassau was my life in the summer, from the age of 8-23 years old, starting as a swimmer and eventually serving as coach, swim instructor, lifeguard, and assistant pool manager. I even scheduled a couple swim meets against Nassau while coaching in Richmond!

To this day I continue to compete at local/national swim meets and in open water events, where I have bumped into other Nassau alums.

But Nassau wouldn’t have been the Nassau we knew and loved without our Head Lemming Bruce. We have Bruce Nystrom and his family to thank for cultivating the environment in which we all thrived. Returning year after year, Bruce gave our lives the structure and continuity in which to learn safely with a strong support of family. Nassau RIP.

VAL VAN HORN PATE

Formerly of Gulick Road and Stuart Road West

Books

Architect Bob Hillier to Discuss “Selected Works” at Book Brunch

In Princeton, the Princeton Public Library, the Waxwood Apartments, and Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center are celebrated as being both architecturally distinctive, and in harmony with their settings. These examples of design — and many more around the world — are featured in Hiller: Selected Works, written by Princeton architect J. Robert “Bob” Hillier, LHD, FAIA, PP, and the late architect Barbara A. Hillier, AIA. Hillier, a Town Topics shareholder, will discuss the book at the Princeton Public Library on Sunday, April 28 at 11 a.m., at a Book Brunch event. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. for coffee and pastries, and the talk begins at 11 a.m. A book signing will follow the talk. The brunch is co-presented by Labyrinth Books.

Hillier: Selected Works (ORO Editions, $60) presents the design work of the Hilliers during the last 25 years, coupled with a brief graphic retrospective of the Hillier practice of architecture over 57 years of operation.

The foreword is by Stan Allen, dean of architecture at Princeton from 2002 to 2012, and notes Hillier’s admiration for his teacher Jean Labatut at Princeton and other colleagues throughout his career.

Despite taking unconventional paths to architecture, both Bob Hillier and his wife, Barbara Hillier, successfully grew the firm to 500 people and executed nearly 4,000 projects in 27 U.S. states and 34 foreign countries. The firm has been honored with more than 350 design awards.

In 2008, Hillier Architecture, then one of the largest firms in the country, merged with a foreign firm to create the third largest architectural firm worldwide.

Studio Hillier, the firm’s current iteration, is an interdisciplinary design firm co-founded in 2011 by the Hilliers based in a transformed machine shop and warehouse on Witherspoon Street. Hillier has been on the core faculty of Princeton University’s School of Architecture since 1992, where he teaches two graduate seminars. Five years ago, the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) renamed its College of Architecture the J. Robert and Barbara A. Hillier College of Architecture and Design.

Hillier, one of the leading and most highly respected architects in the U.S., is distinguished for his design, for his business acumen, and for his contributions to the field of architecture as a practitioner and educator. He is the recipient of an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from NJIT and an Honorary MBA from Bryant University. Other honors include the Legacy Award from the Urban Land Institute, the AIA’s Michael Graves Lifetime Achievement Award, and The President’s Medal from NJIT. He is also a trustee emeritus at McCarter Theatre. Recently he was honored by the Arts Council of Princeton for his support of the nonprofit, its surrounding WitherspoonJackson neighborhood, and his hometown of Princeton.

Barbara A. Hillier, who died in 2022, was an accomplished architect and designer and a principal and co-founder of Studio Hillier. She was the recipient of many honors and awards, including for the Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas and for the BD Campus Center, which received the distinguished Chicago Athenaeum American Architecture Award. Her career in architecture was cultivated in the firm of Hillier Architecture, where she

was both life partner and career partner with founder J. Robert Hillier. Barbara Hillier opened and led the firm’s Philadelphia office for 11 years which helped build the firm’s national reputation.

Historian Penningroth Offers

“Hidden History” of Civil Rights

Historian and UC Berkeley Professor Dylan C. Penningroth, who grew up in the Witherspoon-Jackson neighborhood of Princeton, discusses his new book, Before the Movement: The Hidden History of Black Civil Rights with Wallace D. Best and Hendrik Hartog of Princeton University, on Sunday, April 21 from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street.

This event will be livestreamed to the library’s YouTube channel, youtube. com/c/princetonpl.

In Before the Movement, (Liveright, $35) Penningroth draws on long-forgotten sources found in the basements of county courthouses across the nation to reveal that African Americans, contrary to some accounts, have thought about, talked about, and used the law, going as far back as even the era of slavery.

Dylan C. Penningroth

Penningroth’s narrative, which stretches from the last decades of slavery to the 1970s, partly traces the history of his own family. Challenging accepted understandings of Black history framed by relations with white people, he puts Black people at the center, writing about Black legal lives and looking beyond the Constitution and the criminal justice system to a “rich, broader vision of Black life — a vision allied with, yet distinct from, ‘the freedom struggle,’” according to the publisher.

Kirkus Reviews says that “Penningroth shows how these rights were negotiated and developed in sometimes unlikely contexts, all foregrounding the advances of the 1950s and beyond,” and calls the book “a closely argued addition to our understanding of the origins of the civil rights movement.”

Penningroth is a professor of law and history at the University of California –Berkeley who specializes in African American history and legal history. His first book, The Claims of Kinfolk: African American Property and Community in the Nineteenth-Century South, won the 2004 Civil War and Reconstruction Book Award from the Organization of American Historians. His articles have appeared in the University of Pennsylvania Law Review, the Journal of American History, and the American Historical Review.

Penningroth has held fellowships from the National Endowment for the Humanities, the National Science Foundation, the Stanford Humanities Center, and the MacArthur Foundation.

Penningroth, who was educated in the Princeton Public Schools, is associate dean of the Program in Jurisprudence and Social Policy at Berkeley.

Best is the Hughes-Rogers Professor of Religion and African American Studies of the Department of African American Studies at Princeton University, and specializes in 19th and 20th century African American religious history. His research and teaching focus on the areas of African American religion, religion and literature, Pentecostalism, and Womanist theology. He has authored several books.

Hartog is Princeton’s Class of 1921 Bicentennial Professor in the History of American Law and Liberty, Emeritus. For a decade, he was the director of Princeton University’s Program in American Studies.

Rutgers Political Scientists To Talk About Democracy

Political scientist Elizabeth Matto is joined in conversation by Rutgers’ John Farmer to discuss her new book, To Keep the Republic: Thinking, Talking, and Acting like a Democratic Citizen, on Thursday, April 25 at 7 p.m. at Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street. A book signing will follow the event.

American democracy is at an inflection point, according to the publisher. Although many Americans feel powerless to save their nation’s democratic institutions from the forces dismantling them, the health of America’s democracy depends on the actions its citizens are willing to take to preserve it. Matto’s To Keep the Republic (Rutgers University Press, $54.95 hardcover; $22.95 paperback) describes the many ways that individuals can make a difference on both local and national levels, explaining how civic engagement can take various forms, including political conversation. Former New Jersey Gov. Christine Todd Whitman wrote the foreword.

Matto is a research professor and director of Rutgers University’s Eagleton Institute of Politics. She was the lead editor for Teaching Civic Engagement across the Disciplines and Teaching Civic Engagement Globally, and is the author of Citizen

Now: Engaging in Politics and Democracy

Farmer is a professor and director of the Miller Center on Policing and Community Resilience at Rutgers University. He is the author of The Ground Truth: The Story Behind America’s Defense on 9/11, which was named a New York Times notable book. From 2019-2023, he served as director of the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University. The program is presented with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Celebrating “A Life in Essays”

By Author Nell Irvin Painter

Nell Irvin Painter, the New York Times bestselling author of The History of White People and Old in Art School, has written a comprehensive new collection of essays spanning art, politics, and the legacy of racism : I Just Keep Talking: A Life in Essays. She will speak, with Princeton University’s Ruha Benjamin, on Wednesday, April 24, at 6 p.m. at Labyrinth Books, 122 Nassau Street. The event will celebrate the reissue of Painter’s previous books, Standing at Armageddon: A Grassroots History of the Progressive Era and Sojourner Truth: A Life, a Symbol. This event is co-presented by Labyrinth and the library and is cosponsored by Princeton University’s Humanities Council, Center for Collaborative History, and Department of African American Studies.

I Just Keep Talking (Doubleday, $35) assembles her writing for the first time into a single volume, displaying the breadth and depth of Painter’s decadeslong historical inquiry, and the evolution of Black political thought. The book includes an introduction and coda being published for the fi rst time in this collection. Along with Painter’s writing, this collection offers her original artwork, threaded throughout the book as counterpoint and emphasis.

“Nell Irvin Painter is one of the towering Black intellects of the last half century … [ I Just Keep Talking ] is more than an odyssey for the senses; it’s a revelation that will inspire courage in anyone seeking to express their truth,” said Henry Louis Gates Jr., Alphonse Fletcher University Professor, Harvard University Painter’s many books include Standing at Armageddon and The History of White People. She is the Edwards Professor of American History, Emerita, at Princeton University.

Benjamin is an internationally recognized writer, speaker, and professor of African American Studies at Princeton University, where she is the founding director of the Ida B. Wells Just

Data Lab. She is the awardwinning author of Race After Technology: Abolitionist Tools for the New Jim Code , and Viral Justice , and editor of Captivating Technology , among many other publications.

Conversation Explores Medical Humanities Field

Labyrinth Books and Princeton University’s Humanities Council are presenting an evening of conversation exploring the medical humanities field with two authors on Thursday, April 25 at 6 p.m. at Labyrinth Books, 122 Nasau Street.

In Biological Motion: A History of Life (Zone Books, $33), Janina Wellman studies the foundational relationship between motion and life. To answer the question, “What is Life?,” the prize-winning historian of science engages in a transdisciplinary investigation of motion as the most profound definition of living existence.

And, during a time of abortion debates, surrogacy controversies, prenatal diagnoses, and assessments of fetal risk, Caroline Arni presents the largely unknown history of how the human sciences came to imagine the unborn in terms of “life before birth,” in her book, Of Human Born: Fetal Lives 1800 to 1850 (Zone Books, $34).

Wellmann is a researcher at the Max Planck Institute for the History of Science in Berlin and the author of The Form of Becoming: Embryology and the Epistemology of Rhythm, 1760–1830

Arni is professor of Modern History at the University of Basel. She is the author of an acclaimed anthology of biographical essays, Lauter Frauen: Zwölf historische Porträts (Lots of Women: Twelve Historical Portraits).

The event is co-presented by Labyrinth and Princeton University’s Humanities Council and co-sponsored by Princeton’s Program in the History of Science and Gender and Sexuality Studies Department.

Patti Smith Helps Murakami Wind the Winding-Bird

I was a wing in heaven blue ... I was a vision in another eye ...

—Patti Smith, from “Wing”

Midway through National Poetry Month, I found a poem Patti Smith sang for Haruki Murakami after presenting him with a literary prize in Berlin 10 years ago. The song ends “And if there’s one thing ... Could do for you ... You’d be a wing ... In heaven blue.” In her memoir M Train (2015), Smith calls Murakami’s The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle (Knopf 1997) a “devastating” masterpiece that she immediately wanted to reread because she “did not wish to exit its atmosphere.” She was haunted by “the ghost of a phrase” that had to do with “the fate of a certain property” in the opening chapter.

Having just finished Murakami’s epic of wonders and horrors, I’ve also been haunted by the beginning, where the narrator, Toru Okada, is searching for his lost cat and ends up, in Smith’s words, “at an abandoned house on an overgrown lot with a paltry bird sculpture and an obsolescent well.” What particularly intrigued me was Okada’s reference to “the mechanical cry of a bird that sounded as if it were winding a spring. We called it the wind-up bird” although “we didn’t know what it was really called or what it looked like, but that didn’t bother the wind-up bird. Every day it would come to the stand of trees in our neighborhood and wind the spring of our quiet little world.” That last sentence winds the spring of the book.

In her quest to learn the fate of the abandoned house, Patti Smith returned to one of the final chapters, where she was disappointed to find that the house had been sold and that the well — the portal to the novel’s dreams and mysteries — had been sealed. Probing the core of Murakami’s conception, she wondered what did the wind-up bird look like? While she could picture the bird sculpture, “poised to fly,” she had “no clue about the wind-up bird. Did it possess a tiny bird heart? A hidden spring composed of an unknown alloy?” She’d found her way to these questions because of her “obsessive” fascination with the mysterious, ill-fated house. The process resembled the course that Smith follows throughout M Train, as she studies the poetry of mystery (which may be what the “M” in M Train actually stands for).

Translating Horror

Now and then during my week with Murakami’s Wind-Up Bird I was close to losing patience with the book because the atmosphere Patti Smith “did not wish to exit” sometimes reeked of death and decay, of murder and mutilation graphically described. One passage in particular is discussed by the novel’s translator, Jay Rubin, in the January 22, 2005 Guardian. Referring to a scene “in which a Japanese espionage agent is skinned alive by

a Mongolian army officer,” Rubin says, “I remember living with this chapter day after day as I translated it from Murakami’s gruesome Japanese into (I hope) equally gruesome English. I once tried to talk to Murakami himself about this passage, but he refused: it was just too sickening, he said.... I’m not saying that translating a text is more intense than writing it to begin with — after all, the author had to imagine every detail he put into the scene — but it’s safe to say that translating is the most intense form of reading you can do.”

Ready to Give Up

Patti Smith may have had such scenes in mind when she said the novel “did me in, setting in motion an unstoppable trajectory, like a meteor hurtling toward a barren and entirely innocent sector of earth.” My only issue wasn’t with the violence, however. I also found myself becoming weary of an overload of characters and conceits, unable to sustain much more than a marginal interest in the elegant, fabulously wealthy woman the narrator calls Nutmeg and her mute son Cinnamon.

then with one fiendish, perverse, insolent swing launching the first pitch he sees out of the park. In the stadium’s stunned silence, you could almost hear the raspy, creaky cry of the wind-up bird winding the spring of the book.

When the book threatened to lose me, I searched out novelist Jonathan Franzen’s 2017 Daily Beast celebration: “While you’re reading it, everything in the world feels different. And that for me is the mark of a great novel.” Another thing that had kept me reading was my wife’s admiration, which, however, began waning toward the end, so that as I approached the last chapters I was close to giving up the game.

Execution by Bat

But then Murakami rallied and the game was on. In the context of baseball, it was if the author’s team, the Wind-Up Birds, had come to life with a freakish walk-off win in the last of the 16th inning. Picture a pinch hitter conceived in the witch’s brew of Edgar Allan Poe’s imagination crouched over the plate with the blackest of bats and

When the narrative returned to Manchuria in August 1945 (after “some kind of special new bomb wiped out the whole city of Hiroshima in a split second”), Murakami turned things around using Toru Okada’s weapon of choice, a baseball bat. We’d already endured descriptions of execution by bayonet, and now, just when another round of mutilation is looming, we’re treated to an ingenious piece of black comedy, wherein a Chinese POW in a baseball uniform (number 4, the clean-up hitter on the prison team) is executed with “an ordinary bat” that had “a rough finish and an uneven grain,” swung by a young soldier who had never in his life played baseball. Because this was the first time he’d ever swung a bat, his superior officer had to show him “the basics of the swing” — “See? It’s all in the hips.... Starting from the backswing, you twist from the waist down. The tip of the bat follows through naturally.”

After a few practice swings, the soldier delivered the gruesome equivalent of a home run, the “brand of the bat” making a direct hit behind the victim’s ear. At this point, Murakami takes the whole episode over the top with a piece of Grand Guignol that inspired my fantasy of Murakami’s walk-off win. With a new season of baseball underway, I should note that on Opening Day, April 1978, it was as “the satisfying crack when bat met ball resounded through Jingu Stadium” that Murakami found his vocation: “I think I can write a novel.” Murakami’s “Catcher”

It would take another column to demonstrate why the teenager May Kasahara holds one of the keys to the dark dynamics of The Wind-Up Bird . There’s a clue to

her origins in what Murakami says about one of his favorite novels, J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye : “It’s a dark story, very disturbing. I enjoyed it when I was seventeen, so I decided to translate it. I remembered it as being funny, but it’s dark and strong. I must have been disturbed when I was young.”

Making Connections

With all the moving parts of The WindUp Bird Chronicle in play, a connection I missed is the one Smith makes when she recalls flying to Berlin to present Murakami with the Die Welt Literature Prize and to sing him a song. Writing in April 2021 on her substack blog (“The reader is my notebook”), she begins with a reading of Murakami’s story, “Charlie Parker Plays Bossa Nova,” which reminds her that the first poem she ever published was a eulogy to the jazz legend called “Bird is Free” that appeared in the local paper in 1963, the same year Murakami published his first piece, a review of a Charlie Parker album he’d “made up” as a way of giving “new life to his favorite player.” At the Berlin event, however, the only winged creature Smith had in mind was the “enigmatic bird sculpture” and the mystery surrounding it. Ever the detective, she had to know what happened to it, where was it? At the reception following the presentation, when she finally “got up the courage to ask him,” Murakami “seemed, or pretended to seem, confounded. He insinuated that he had already covered that book with the topsoil of several others and the bird sculpture had flown from memory.”

A year later in M Train, Smith returned to her unanswered question in a chapter titled, “How I Lost the Wind-Up Bird.” Boarding a connecting flight in Houston after a reading in Mexico, she realizes she’s left behind her copy of the novel — “a heavily marked-up paperback stained with coffee and olive oil, my traveling companion.... Quite by accident I had let go of the string attached to Murakami’s well, the abandoned lot, and the bird sculpture.” Having found a real-life home for herself earlier in the chapter, she no longer needed the fictional property she’d been looking for, which now could go back to “the interconnected world of Murakami. The wind-up bird’s work was done.”

Smith outlines the mystery in her August 5, 2014 New York Times review of Murakami’s Colorless Tsukuru and His Years of Pilgrimage : “The writer sits at his desk and makes us a story. A story not knowing where it is going, not knowing itself to be magic. Closure is an illusion, the winking of the eye of a storm. Nothing is completely resolved in life, nothing is perfect. The important thing is to keep living because only by living can you see what happens next.”

—Stuart Mitchner

Performing Arts

WHODUNIT?: The murder mystery comedy “Clue”

and

Murder Mystery “Clue”

Coming to State Theatre NJ State Theatre New Jersey presents Clue, the murder mystery comedy, for four performances on Saturday, April 27 at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday, April 28 at 1 and 6:30 p.m. Tickets range from $40-$105.

Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget. Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic

Led by Broadway Director Casey Hushion (associate director of Mean Girls and The Prom , associate resident director of Aladdin , and choreography for the Netflix series Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt ), Clue is based on the screenplay by Jonathan Lynn and written by Sandy Rustin with additional material by Hunter Foster and Eric Price. It features original music by Michael Holland. For more information, tickets, or group discounts,

Rider Furniture

DRAMA ABOUT FRIENDSHIP: Tabla player Salar Nader, in foreground, stars in “The Kite Runner,” a play based on the novel by Khaled Hosseini, coming to the State Theatre New Jersey May 3 and 4.

“The Kite Runner” Comes To State Theatre New Jersey State Theatre New Jersey presents The Kite Runner, a play with music based on Khaled Hosseini’s internationally best-selling novel for two performances on Friday and Saturday, May 3 and 4 at 8 p.m. Salar Nader, the renowned musician who starred in the Broadway production, will reprise his role as tabla player for the tour. Tickets range from $70-$105.

incident which will change their lives forever.

Originally published in 2003, Hosseini’s The Kite Runner became a bestseller across the globe and has since been published in 70 countries, selling 31.5 million copies in 60 languages. After being adapted for the stage, The Kite Runner originally premiered at the San Jose Repertory Theater in 2009. In 2013, Nottingham Playhouse and Liverpool

Everyman and Playhouse staged a new production in the U.K. In 2017, The Kite Runner returned to the stage in London’s West End for two limited engagements at Wyndham’s Theatre and the Playhouse Theatre. The Broadway production played a strictly limited run at the Hayes Theater in the summer of 2022.

The State Theatre New Jersey is at 15 Livingston Avenue in New Brunswick. Visit Stnj.org for tickets.

“Where

The play tells a tale of friendship spanning cultures and continents, following one man’s journey to confront his past and find redemption. Afghanistan is a divided country, and two childhood friends are about to be torn apart. It’s a beautiful afternoon in Kabul and the skies are full of the excitement and joy of a kite flying tournament. But neither of the boys can foresee the

will be at State Theatre New Jersey in New Brunswick on April 27

28. (Photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade)

Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that keeps you guessing until the final twist.

call State Theatre Guest Services at (732) 246-SHOW (7469) or visit Stnj.org.

Screening and Q&A At Garden Theatre

On April 8, Princeton celebrated the uniquely 90’s holiday known as Rex Manning Day, inspired by the cult-classic film Empire Records, at the Princeton Garden Theatre. The event was a collaboration with McCarter Theatre Center, which will present the world premiere of a play of the same name in the fall. The special event celebrated the movie’s enduring legacy and community of fans it has forged. A free screening of the film, which chronicles a day in the life of a record store facing corporate takeover, was shown, followed by a post-show Q&A with Carol Heikkinen, the original film’s writer and now the visionary behind the book for the upcoming musical comedy adaptation, Empire Records.

Mayor Mark Freda officially proclaimed April 8, 2024 as Rex Manning Day in Princeton. In the proclamation, Freda states, “In the nearly 30 years since its initial release, the movie Empire Records has become a cultural touchstone for millions who have celebrated

spirit of optimism and its hopeful message that a determined group of people can work collectively to defy the odds.” He continues, “Princeton, New Jersey, is committed to being a thriving and supportive home for proudly local, independent enterprises, including McCarter Theatre, Princeton Garden Theatre, and Princeton Record Exchange, among many others.”

The upcoming musical will bring the story to the stage with an original score by Princeton native Zoe Sarnak. Visit Mccarter.org/ empirerecords for more information.

Bristol Riverside Theatre

Announces 2024-25 Season

Bristol Riverside Theatre (BRT) in Bristol, Pa., begins its 38th season at The Regency Room, 190 Mifflin Street, an intimate 150seat venue with up close and personal views, ample onsite free parking, a bar, and concessions. Two entrances for the space, one on Mifflin Street and the ADA-accessible entrance at the rear of the building, accommodate guests while Bristol Riverside Theatre’s main venue undergoes a

“THE SECRET GARDEN”: Princeton Youth Ballet (PYB) will present The Secret Garden at 4 p.m. on May 11 and May 12 at the Princeton High School Performing Arts Center, 16 Walnut Lane. PYB’s full-length production, based on the book by Frances Hodgson Burnett, tells the story of a young girl’s journey through loss, renewal, and growth, and features choreography by Risa Kaplowitz, staging and additional choreography by Talin Kenar, and projection backdrops by David Haneman. Running time is approximately 95 minutes. This performance is appropriate for audience members ages 4 and older. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 on the day of the performance, and are available princetonyouthballet.org.

Thomas Novachek in a feverish search for the perfect actress to star in his play’s leading role as Vanda von Dunayev. This laugh-outloud study of sex and power performs from October 22 to November 10.

The season continues back in BRT’s newly renovated theatre at 120 Radcliffe Street in January 2025 with a ribbon cutting welcoming guests to the fully revamped auditorium renamed the John Martinson Theatre. The new theatre will have enhanced theatrical sound and lighting, new seating, aisle railings, expanded concessions, a window-walled front entryway, a new facade and roof, a restructured main entrance for wheelchair accessibility, a refitted loading dock, a new HVAC, and upgraded electrical systems.

LOCAL MUSICIANS: Presenting a benefit concert on Saturday, April 20 at 2 p.m. at Princeton United Methodist Church are, from left, Julia Hanna, Paul Manulik, and Scott Collins. Not pictured, Steven Hanna.

crime writer runs May 27 through June 15.

multi-million-dollar renovation and facelift.

The season opens with a D.L. Colburn’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play The Gin Game in a production reuniting Keith Baker and Penelope Reed. Baker was the artistic director of BRT and Reed the producing artistic director of Hedgerow Theatre, each for nearly 30 years. In this production they reunite to thrill local audiences as Weller Martin and Fonsia Dorsey, roles made famous by Hume Cronyn and Jessica Tandy, in a touching story about friendship, isolation, and aging. Running September 10 to September 29, the play tells the story of two elderly acquaintances locked in increasingly competitive rounds of Gin Rummy.

For the season’s second show, BRT presents David Ives’ tale about an uninhibited actress who weasels her way into an audition just when the director is ready to end the day. Venus in Fur received a Tony nomination for Best Play of 2012. This stage adaptation of Leopold von SacherMasoch’s 1870 novel depicts dissatisfied writer-director

The new year will kick-off with Anna Deveare Smith’s Pulitzer Prize-nominated docudrama Fires in the Mirror, which investigates the 1991 violence in Crown Heights through the real words of the those involved in and affected by the conflict between the Black and Hasidic communities of Crown Heights, N.Y. This production is directed by BRT’s Amy Kaissar, premiering February 4 to 23.

For the grand reopening of the building, BRT will invite audiences in for a vibrant party celebrating community with Lin-Manuel Miranda and Quiara Alegría Hudes’ 2008 Tony and Grammy Award-winning show, In the Heights from March 25 to April 27.

Finally, the season closes on a suspenseful note with the thrilling whodunit Alibi: An Agatha Christie Story. Based Agatha Christie’s 1926 novel The Murder of Roger Ackroyd, t he show was Christie’s first stage-adapted work. Here, it receives a fresh treatment and marks the return to BRT’s biennial Community Participatory productions, the first since the pandemic. BRT’s homage to the famous

America’s First Guru

A film screening and talk-back with filmmaker Raja Choudhury April 23 at 5:30pm

Single season tickets go on sale June 10 for all five shows of the upcoming 2024-25 theater season, starting at $52 for standard productions and $57 for musicals. Limited seats are available for the first two shows. For tickets and more information, visit brtstage. org or call the box office at (215) 785-0100.

Rarely Played Music at PrincetonUMC Benefit

Rarely played music will be featured at a benefit concert for Princeton United Methodist Church (PrincetonUMC) on Saturday, April 20 at 2 p.m., followed by a reception. All are welcome, and no tickets are required; a free-will offering will benefit the church. The musicians are Julia Hanna, piano; Scott Collins, ; Steven Hanna, clarinet; and Paul Manulik, viola.

The concert will include works by Bach, Bolcom, Horovitz, and Zinzadse, closing with “The Meeting,” a technical tour-de-force for two clarinets by A. Ponchielli, a 19th century Italian composer. “It is rarely performed, and we are excited to share it with everyone,” said Collins.

Collins performs with the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, the Bay Atlantic Symphony, and other

regional ensembles and is a conductor with the Youth Orchestra of Central Jersey and the eighth grade symphonic orchestra at the Community Middle School in Plainsboro. Julia Hanna is a pianist at PrincetonUMC, Westminster Choir College, and with the Princeton Girl Choir. Steven Hanna teaches music in Allentown. Manulik directs the Princeton String Academy.

PrincetonUMC is located at the corner of Nassau Street and Vandeventer Avenue. Parking is available in the lot behind the church and on the street. For more information, call (609) 9242613 or email office@PrincetonUMC.org.

WET PAPER IN THE DRIVEWAY?

Sorry. It Happens, even with a plastic bag. We can’t control the weather, but we can offer you a free, fresh and dry replacement paper

if you stop by our office at 4428C Route 27 in Kingston.

REX MANNING DAY: McCarter Theatre Center and the Princeton Garden Theatre presented a free community screening of the cult classic film “Empire Records” in preparation for the play of the same name, making its world premiere at McCarter in the fall. (Photo by Roy Matusek) its

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Art

has partnered with the Hopewell Valley Arts Council as it prepares for its May fundraiser and fall event.

Tour Des Arts Partners

With HV Arts Council

This year marks the 17th anniversary of Hopewell Tour Des Arts, the annual event that opens the doors of local artists’ studios and pop-up art spaces to the public. This curated tour showcases new and innovative work from talented artists in the Hopewell area and is free to the public. In conjunction with celebrating this milestone, the Tour announces a new partnership with the Hopewell Valley Arts Council and gears up for its May fundraiser.

Starting with Highland Design Farm’s transformation over 50 years ago from multi-floored chicken coops to vibrant artist studios, Hopewell Tour Des Arts was conceptualized by Sean Mannix, Beth Judge, and Ruth Morpeth 18 years ago. Their vision was to unify the artist community and foster a culture of creativity and engagement.

This year, as part of this new collaboration, Tour Des Artes will operate under the Hopewell Valley Arts Council’s oversight, providing event and marketing support and enabling patrons to support the Tour with taxdeductible donations.

Of the new partnership, Mannix said, “I look forward with anticipation to the possibilities that lie ahead in our collective journey with the HV Arts Council. Together, we aim to nurture and elevate the event and mentor emerging artists, ensuring its longevity for many years to come.”

Carol Lipson, HV Arts Council executive director said, “We are excited to have Tour Des Arts added to our repertoire of premier events as we strive to not only elevate Hopewell to a regional art hub, but also underscore the importance of art as a cornerstone for thriving communities.”

On Friday, May 31, a fundraiser to support Tour Des Arts and student art scholarships will be held at the Hopewell Theater in Hopewell Borough. The event, “Canvases + Confections,” will feature a display of works by art students from Hopewell Valley Central High School and The Cambridge School; an opportunity to purchase small works created by Tour Des Arts artists; live music; a hands-on mural painting; and a smorgasbord of desserts. For further details and to purchase fundraiser

“We try to curate as best we can throughout our space based on what the students bring to the table,” said Zbaski, who continued, “The student show really depicts the heart of Mercer. The students have real passion. The exhibit is a showcase of their inner worlds and a true expression of themselves.”

The Gallery at Mercer County Community College is located at 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor, in Room 250 on the second floor of the Communications Building. Hours are Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Wednesday 12 to 7 p.m. For more information, visit mccc.edu/gallery.

Artworks Selected for Trenton Mural Project

tickets, visit hvartscouncil. org/tourdesarts.

Tour Des Arts 2024 is scheduled for Saturday, September 28, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, September 29, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine. Admission is free. Details and this year’s tour map will be available several weeks in advance on both the Hopewell Valley Arts Council and Tour Des Arts websites.

MCCC Gallery Hosts

Annual Student Exhibit

Creativity abounds at the Gallery at Mercer County Community College (MCCC) as art students showcase their talents during the annual “Visual Arts Student Exhibition” through May 6. The show is free and open to the public.

Encouraged to use their imagination and be their authentic selves when looking for inspiration for their work, 40-plus students submitted pieces including fine arts, ceramics, sculpture, photography, and drawing, resulting in a display of 73 unique works of art. Gallery Assistant Karolina Zbaski noted that the gallery staff designed the exhibit around the students’ submissions, hence letting their work speak for itself.

In a call for artists, the Mercer County Division of Culture and Heritage (MCDCH) opened submissions for the Mercer County Cass Street Prison Mural Project (MCCSPMP) to professional, practicing artists and artist teams living or working within the tri-state area. Qualifi ed artists were asked to propose an original design to be installed on the exterior 319’ (w) x 19’ (h) wall of the New Jersey State Prison located at 600 Cass Street in Trenton. The County received over 50 proposals. All qualifying proposals were then reviewed by a committee composed of public art experts, an arts administrator, a New Jersey State Prison representative, and the MCDCH. The committee narrowed the proposals down to six finalists, who then presented their proposals live in Phase II of the process. After a thorough deliberation, Artworks came out on top.

“Artworks Trenton’s proposal stood out for its ability to capture the essence of what the grant aims to achieve,” said Samuel Kanig, program coordinator at The Center for Community Engagement at The College of New Jersey and a MCCSPMP committee member. “I’m excited about the collective of artists that will be working on the mural

Commentators at Play:

The Bhagavata Purana’s Exegetical Tradition

April 18 at 6pm

and the creativity they individually bring to the project. The Cass Street mural is sure to be an inspiring community landmark.”

“Artworks has been a valued community partner for many years, and I’m excited to see work begin on the project,” said Mercer County Executive Dan Benson. “Public art provides an opportunity for a community to express its values, its passions, and its hopes. This mural will serve as a lasting testament to the incredible creative talent in our Capital City.”

A team of seven artists will be working together to represent Artworks on this project. They are Jonathan “Lank” Conner (project manager), Leon Rainbow and Jose “Busta” Bustamente (lead artists), Dean “Ras” Innocenzi, Dave “Mek” Klama, Alia Bensliman, and April Cooper.

“Artworks is thrilled to have been selected for this project and is proud to be working with an amazing group of local artists led by Leon Rainbow and Jose Bustamente,”

Conner said. “We look forward to creating a beautiful mural that represents the city and can be enjoyed by Trentonians for many years to come.”

Artworks’ concept for the mural is a celebration of arts and culture in the City of Trenton. In their proposal, the team described the upcoming mural design as a representation of the power that art has to “break down barriers: mental, cultural, spiritual, financial, and institutional.”

Each of the seven artists involved in the creation of the mural plans to bring a different perspective to their design, both through different artistic styles and through their individual cultural backgrounds. Together, they plan to make a connection between the diverse artistic styles and backgrounds of the group and the diverse community of the capital city.

Artworks will spend the spring and summer months workshopping and installing this mural, with an anticipated completion date this fall.

examine the vital role played by commentaries. What makes these interpretative musings so fascinating, how do they provide us with glimpses into their own time and place, and why might they still be relevant to us today?

JOINING FORCES: Hopewell Tour Des Arts, marking its 17th anniversary,

“AT HOME”: This work by Karen Hodell is part of the annual “Visual Arts Student Exhibition,” on view at the Gallery at Mercer County Community College in West Windsor through May 6.

“PARADISE”:

“Not Your Run of the Mill Photo Show” at Phillips’ Mill

April began a twofold celebration of fine art photography at the historic Phillips’ Mill in New Hope, Pa., with the opening of the 31st annual Juried “Phillips’ Mill Photographic Exhibition.”

The Mill Photo Committee’s “Not Your Run of the Mill Photo Show,” which opens on Sunday, April 21, marks the photo finish this month.

The “Not Your Run of the Mill Photo Show,” like the juried exhibit at the start of April, will fill both levels of the Mill, upstairs and down, with high-quality works of photographic art on the walls, as well as dozens of matted prints in the portfolio bins. In this second show, however, all artists are members of the volunteer Phillips’ Mill Photo Committee that is responsible for organizing both shows.

Works on display will include Peter Hewitt’s landscapes in both color and monochrome, printed on textured watercolor paper; Lynne Kerr’s composite images celebrating the beauty of rural America; Samuel Vovsi’s semi-surreal, blackand-white “Urban Dreamscapes”; and Dafyyd Jones’ suite of sunrises and sunsets from five Western states.

Sharlene Holliday’s series of photos “show the grit and decay inside the Ohio Reformatory, the prison where the Shawshank Redemption was filmed,” she said.

A special feature of the exhibit is a themed assignment –– “Creating a Self-Portrait”

–– with commentary on how the image reflects the photographer’s own style. As visitors will see, this challenge lends itself to a wide variety of interpretations and approaches, from the literal to the metaphorical.

“I look forward to the ‘Not Your Run of the Mill Photo Show’ as much as I do the juried show,” said Maria Dreyer, chair of the Photo Committee. “It’s an eclectic display of work by the many talented photographers who produced the juried show. We come together, share the spotlight, and take a final bow, so to speak.”

The “Not Your Run of the Mill Photo Show” will be open from April 21-28: Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 1 to 5 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 1 to 8 p.m. Phillips’ Mill is located at 2619 River Road in New Hope, Pa. For more information visit phillipsmill.org.

“Doan Gang” Exhibition Coming to Mercer Museum

The Doan Gang roamed Bucks County, Pa., in the 1770s, and were known for exploits that included stealing horses and selling them to the British, robbing the Bucks County treasury, and in general, disrupting the new governments of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maryland. Later romanticized, they were considered both villains and heroes.

Discover their untold stories at the Mercer Museum in Doylestown, Pa., beginning May 4 in a new exhibition, “The Doan Gang:

Outlaws of the Revolution.”

The museum delves into an immersive history of the Revolutionary War-era loyalists and a world of espionage, legendary robberies, and mythical lost treasure. Visitors will learn how these outlaws plotted, schemed, and plundered through a divided world in the early days of a new nation, and how their loyalty to British rule in the Colonies sometimes forced their neighbors and friends to choose sides during a time of great political and social unrest.

The Mercer Museum is located at 84 South Pine Street in Doylestown, Pa., and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults, $13 for ages 65 and up, $10 for students, $8 for youths ages 6-17, and free for children under age 5.

The member preview day is Friday, May 3. This special exhibition, which runs through December 31, 2026, is included with museum admission. For more information, visit mercermuseum.org/doanprograms.

Area Exhibits

Art@Bainbridge, 158 Nassau Street, has “Denison Baniwa: Under the Skin of History” through September 1. artmuseum.princeton. edu.

Artists’ Gallery, 18 Bridge Street, Lambertville,

Doylestown, Pa.,

has “Immersion” through May 5. Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. lambertvillearts.com.

Art on Hulfish, 11 Hulfish Street, has “Christina Fernandez: Multiple Exposures” through April 28. artmuseum.princeton.edu.

Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon Street, has “Making Do” April 27 through May 24 in the Taplin Gallery. A gallery opening is on May 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. artscouncilofprinceton.org.

David Scott Gallery at Berkshire Hathaway, 253 Nassau Street, has “This Looks Familiar” through May 19.

Ficus Art Gallery, 235 Nassau Street, has “Embrace the Everyday” through May 6. ficusbv.com.

Gourgaud Gallery, 23-A North Main Street, Cranbury, has “Paisaje Imaginaro (Imaginary Landscape)” through April 25. cranburyartscouncil.org.

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 “Einstein Salon and Innovator’s Gallery,” “Princeton’s Portrait,” and other exhibits. Museum hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 12 to 4 p.m., Thursday to 7 p.m. princetonhistory.org

Michener Art Museum, 138 South Pine Street,

Doylestown, Pa., has “Renewal and Change: New Acquisitions” through April 28 and “CFEVA at 40” through May 26. michenerartmuseum.org

Morpeth Contemporary, 43 West Broad Street, Hopewell, has “Holly Roberts + Brander Furniture” through April 27. morpethcontemporary.com.

Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street, has the online exhibits “Slavery at Morven,” “Portrait of Place: Paintings, Drawings, and Prints of New Jersey, 1761–1898,” and others. morven.org.

Phillips’ Mill, 2619 River Road, New Hope, Pa., has “Phillips’ Mill Photographic Exhibition” through April 19 and “Not Your Run of the Mill Photo Show” April 21 to 28. phillipsmill.org.

Princeton Makes, Princeton Shopping Center, 301 North Harrison Street, has “Princeton Makes Blooms” through April 19. princetonmakes.com.

Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, has “Inspired Together” through June 1. princetonlibrary.org.

Small World Coffee, 14 Witherspoon Street, has oil paintings by Elina Lorenz through May 7. Photography by Sheila Bodine is at the 254 Nassau Street location through May 7. smallworldcoffee.com.

Trenton City Museum at Ellarslie, Cadwalader Park, Trenton, has “Music to My Eyes” through April 20. ellarslie.org.

West Windsor Arts, 952 Alexander Road, West Windsor, has “Leave Your Mark – Member Art Show” through June 1. westwindsorarts.org.

Zimmerli Art Museum at Rutgers, 71 George Street, New Brunswick, has “George Segal: Themes and Variations” through July 31 and “Michelle V. Agins: Storyteller” through December 8. zimmerli.rutgers.edu. www.princetonmagazinestore.com Featuring

This work by Maria Dreyer is featured in the Phillips’ Mill Photo Committee’s “Not Your Run of the Mill Photo Show,” on view April 21-28 at the historic Phillips’ Mill in New Hope, Pa.

“OUTLAWS OF THE REVOLUTION”: beginning May 4, the Mercer Museum in

will present an exhibition about the Doan Gang that roamed Bucks County during the 1770s. It will

Mark Your Calendar TOWN TOPICS

Wednesday, April 17

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m .: Leighton Listens. Councilman Leighton Newlin is on hand to discuss current events with members of the public at Hinds Plaza.

6:30 p.m .: JFCS of Greater Mercer County presents the Help & Healing Awards, at The Jewish Center of Princeton, 435 Nassau Street. Honoring partners and volunteers. Free. Jfcsonline.org.

7 p.m .: Passages is screened at the Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau Street, as part of the Princeton Public Library’s International Cinema Series. Tickets required. Princetonlibrary.org.

7:30 p.m .: Les Ballets Troackdero de Monte

Carlo: 50th Anniversary, at McCarter Theatre, 91 University Place. Preshow Pride party at 6 p.m. hosted by Lady Celestina. McCarter.org.

Thursday, April 18

10 a.m.: The 55-Plus Club meets at the Jewish Center, 435 Nassau Street. Gretchen Morgenson, reporter at NBC News, speaks on “Capitalism on Steroids: How Private Equity Impoverishes Many While Enriching the Few.” Free, but $5 donation suggested. Princetonol. com/groups/55plus.

12-1 p.m .: West Windsor Arts’ Lunchtime Gallery Series features the work of Wharton Esherick and a virtual tour of his studio. Free for members; $10 others. Visit westwindsorarts.org for link.

12:15 p.m .: The ensemble Trio Brillante, including flutist Katherine McClure, oboist Melissa Bohl, and pianist Esma Pasic-Filipovic, performs at Niles Chapel of Nassau Presbyterian Church, 61 Nassau Street. Free. Rider.edu.

5:30-8 p.m.: Pop-up Art Show benefiting Princeton Mobile Food Pantry, at Princeton Shopping Center between Rita’s and Princeton Nassau Pediatric. Pmfpantry.org.

6 p.m.: Zoom talk sponsored by the Eagleton Institute of Politics on the changing roles of political parties and the implications for democracy, in the context of William Fernkes’ book Clifford Case and the Challenge of Liberal Republicanism . Register at eagleton.rutgers.edu/events.

8:30 p.m .: “Apertures,” an evening of dance works by Princeton University seniors Mei Geller and Jasmine Rivers at Hearst Dance Theater, Lewis Arts complex. Free. Arts. princeton.edu.

Friday, April 19

5-8 p.m.: Trivia Nights at the Winery, at Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road. Terhuneorchards.com.

7-8:30 p.m .: Rider University Chorale presents “Common Threads” at Gill Chapel, 2083 Lawrenceville

Road. Featuring the Princeton Boychoir and music of Stephen Sondheim, Rosephanye Powell, and other composers. $15-$20. Rider.edu.

8 p.m .: “A Visit with Pete Seeger by Professor Allan Winkler,” presented by the Princeton Folk Music Society at Christ Congregation Church, 50 Walnut Lane. $25. Princetonfolk.org.

8:30 p.m .: “Apertures,” an evening of dance works by Princeton University seniors Mei Geller and Jasmine Rivers at Hearst Dance Theater, Lewis Arts complex. Free. Arts.princeton.edu.

Saturday, April 20

9-11 a.m.: Kingston Greenways Association Earth Day Cleanup of Laurel Avenue and vicinity of Rockingham Historic Site, meet at the Rockingham parking lot, 84 Laurel Avenue. Afternoon session, 2-4 p.m.: Trash collection in Heathcote Meadows Preserve. Park at 21 Monroe Court, off Cleveland Lane. Grabbers, gloves, and garbage bags will be provided. Kingstongreenways.org.

10 a.m .: Read and Explore: Composting. At Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road. After stories and looking at compost material, each child makes their own compost container to take home. $12. Terhuneorchards.com.

10 a.m.-8 p.m.: 14th Annual Record Store Day at Princeton Record Exchange; celebration with limited edition titles. 20 South Tulane Street, prex.com

10 a.m.-1 p.m .: West Windsor Community Farmers Market at the Vaughn lot, Princeton Junction train station. Fresh produce and much more. Wwcfm.org.

11 a.m.-3 p.m.: “Party Like It’s Earth Day” at Morven’s Community Green Fair, 55 Stockton Street. Rain date April 21. Morven. org.

11 a.m.-2 p.m .: Spring Cleanup Day at Princeton Battlefield State Park, Mercer Street. Followed by a pizza party and tour of the Thomas Clarke House. Tools and gloves provided. Registration required at pbs1777. org. Rain date is April 27.

12-4 p.m .: West Windsor Arts celebrates Garden State Art Weekend with a member show. Free. Westwindsorarts.org.

12-6 p.m .: Spring Winery Weekend Music Series at Terhune Orchards. Music from 1-4 p.m. by Michael Montemurro. 1 p.m .: Pam’s Herb Class; learn how to grow food in the home garden with Pam Mount. 330 Cold Soil Road. Terhuneorchards.com.

1 p.m.: The Frog Prince is at the Kelsey Theatre on Mercer County Community College’s (MCCC) West Windsor Campus, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor. Tickets are $16 for adults and $14 for seniors, children, and students. Also

at 4 p.m. Visit kelseytheatre. org or call (609) 570-3333.

2 p.m .: “Children’s Classic Stories” by Mill Ballet at Villa Victoria Theatre, 376 West Upper Ferry Road, Ewing. Roxeyballet.org.

2 p.m.: Benefit Concert for Princeton United Methodist Church, followed by a reception. The musicians are Julia Hanna, piano; Scott Collins, clarinet, Steven Hanna, clarinet, and Paul Manulik, viola. The church is at the corner of Nassau Street and Vandeventer Avenue. All are welcome, no tickets are required. For more information, call (609) 924-2613 or email office@ PrincetonUMC.org.

3-9:30 p.m .: Rider University hosts American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life fundraiser on the Campus Mall. The theme is Hollywood. RelayForLife@rider.edu.

7 p.m .: 60s Rock n’ Roll Revival, at State Theatre New Jersey, 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. Gary Puckett and the Union Gap, The Grass Roots, Gary Lewis & The Playboys, and The Brooklyn Bridge. $39$89. Stnj.org.

7:30 p.m.: The Capital Philharmonic of New Jersey presents George Antheil’s Ballet Mecanique at the Roebling Machine Shop, 675 South Clinton Avenue, Trenton. In partnership with the Trenton Circus Squad. Works by Antheil, Daniel Spalding, John Cage, Lou Harrison, and Bach. Capitalphilharmonic.org.

Sunday, April 21

11 a.m.-1 p.m.: Hunterdon Land Trust’s Winter Farmers’ Market is at Dvoor Farm, 111 Mine Street, Flemington. Hunterdonlandtrust.org.

12-6 p.m.: Spring Winery Weekend Music Series at Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road. Music from 1-4 p.m. by Jerry Steele. 1 p.m .: Earth Day Celebration: Story and Planting. Read stories and plant seeds to take home. Terhuneorchards.com.

3-4:30 p.m .: An English tea followed by a Choral Evensong at Trinity Church, 33 Mercer Street. $35 in advance or $40 at the door. Reserve by emailing mstengel1329@hotmail.com or calling (609) 924-4807.

3 p.m .: Author Dylan C. Pennington discusses his book Before the Movement: The Hidden History of Black Civil Rights with Wallace D. Best and Hendrik Hartog of Princeton University, at Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street. Princetonlibrary.org.

3 p.m .: 250th Anniversary Celebration, Central New Jersey Chapter of the American Guild of Organists, at Pennington United Methodist Church, 60 South Main Street, Pennington.

Members recital and hymn festival. (609) 737-1374.

3-4 p.m.: Historian and UC Berkeley Professor Dylan C. Penningroth, who grew up in the Witherspoon-Jackson neighborhood, discusses his new book, Before the Movement: The Hidden History of Black Civil Rights with Wallace D. Best and Hendrik Hartog of Princeton University, at Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street.

3-4:30 p.m.: Earth Day Webinar co-sponsored by the Coalition for Peace Action. Free. Register at peacecoalition.org.

4 p.m.: Gathering in solidarity with the October 7 hostages, and a call for their release. Organized by a grassroots group of Israelis in Princeton. At Hinds Plaza.

4 p.m.: Princeton Makes artist cooperative features David Brahinsky and friends at its monthly Java Jam at the Princeton Shopping Center. Princetonmakes.com.

4 p.m .: Westminster Choir presents “Music of Awe and Wonder” at Gill Chapel, Rider University, Lawrence Township. Music of Howells, Lauridsen, Whyte, Brahms, LaVoy, and Gjeilo in addition to spirituals and folk songs. $15-$20. (609) 896-7775.

APRIL

Monday, April 22

Recycling

Tuesday, April 23

9:30 and 11 a.m.: Read and Pick Program: Chickens, at Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road. Handson farm activity and stories. $12. Terhuneorchards.com.

4:30 p.m .: Princeton University’s Lewis Center for the Arts presents a concert of original songs by students in the course “How to Write a Song” at Frist Film/ Performance theatre, Frist Campus Center. Free. Arts. princeton.edu.

Wednesday, April 24

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m .: Leighton Listens. Councilman Leighton Newlin is on hand to discuss current events with members of the public at Mi Espana, Princeton Shopping Center, 301 North Harrison Street.

7:30 p.m.: The Puget Sound Piano Trio performs at Trinity Church, 33 Mercer Street. Works by Mendelssohn, Haydn, and Del Aguila. $45 (half price for children 5-17). Princetonsymphony.org.

Get the scoop from

You can now experience the unique Pure Blossom atmosphere in Pennington. This cannabis dispensary at 2554 Pennington Road offers a wide range of cannabis products and accessories.

you. We have put together a 13-member team that believes strongly in the benefits of cannabis. We are here to guide you through a cannabis experience that helps you to understand its overall beneficial value.”

cannabis oil. Combined with batteries, consuming a cartridge would be known as ‘vaping.’ Also available are edibles, topicals (lotions and balms), and tinctures, which are made for sublingual consumption, and come with a dropper.”

Unique Pure Blossom Cannabis Dispensary Is Now Open, Offering a Range of Products IT’S NEW To Us

“We believe in the transformative power of this beautiful, complex plant to enhance your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Consider us your guide through the complexities,” announces the Pure Blossom mission statement.

“We see cannabis as part of a larger ecosystem of enlightened paths to wellness so at Pure Blossom, you will also find things like sustainable beauty products, groundbreaking skincare, innovative adaptogens, and nootropics.”

“We transcend the typical dispensary experience through personal guidance and contextualizing cannabis in a way that makes sense for your life,” it continues. “We aim to end the stigma around the plant for good by showing you how it can be a tool for a life lived better. We want to see you move beyond curiosity to achieve a level of comfort, ease, and enjoyment.”

Personal Guidance

Personal guidance is indeed an important part of the Pure Blossom approach, points out Chief Operating Officer Jordan Bruseloff. “We are a women-owned and operated business, and our staff is here to help you find the right product for

The Pure Blossom experience starts with an inviting atmosphere that welcomes visitors to the dispensary. Light and roomy, the setting offers an array of products attractively and conveniently displayed.

The staff members are friendly and knowledgeable, and very willing to answer questions and help with advice. And now that cannabis is legal in New Jersey, customers unfamiliar with it do have questions, says Bruseloff, who has been involved in the field since 2020.

“I started with the Garden State Dispensary in Woodbridge, which is a medical dispensary, helping patients who need pain relief or who have other health or medical conditions. I was trained by a pharmacist, and this was an excellent learning experience. Cannabis can help people in so many ways. It can relieve anxiety, insomnia, and other problems, as well as providing pain relief.”

Customer Preference

The range of products at Pure Blossom includes those to promote health and wellbeing as well as those for recreational use. There are various categories for these items, as Bruseloff explains.

“We offer sophisticated smokeware and carefully curated cannabis accessories. Also, whole cannabis flower and pre-rolls (pre-rolled joints). Cartridges, found under the vaporizer category, are filled with extracted

Choices are very individual according to customer preference and purpose, and edibles are popular with customers now. As Bruseloff points out, “We primarily carry gummies, but as the New Jersey industry continues to expand, we are seeing a wider selection of edible products. We recently got a new brand which carries both milk and dark chocolate.”

Mood Enhancer

As Bruseloff further emphasizes, educating the customers is a priority, and there is a great deal to learn about cannabis products. For instance, she says, “For pain relief, insomnia relief, anxiety, and dexterity issues, we carry a wide range of products that customers are able to choose from. but cannabis as a whole is very individualized.

“As an example, a minor cannabinoid such as CBG can be found in cannabis flower, cartridges, and edibles. This may help with anxiety, pain relief, and as a mood enhancer, while simultaneously causing psychoactive (or ‘high’) effects. However, someone looking for no psychoactive effects may be more inclined to choose a pain relief lotion or balm.”

Bruseloff also says that when customers seek advice, she starts by asking what their purpose is — pain relief, general well-being, recreation and social? She

adds that a person’s reaction to the use of the product can vary. “If they are just starting, we always begin with a lower amount. You have to see how each individual will react.”

Customers must be 21 years old, and adults of all ages are coming in, she reports. “A typical customer is 45, and we have many repeats already. They are coming from the area, including Pennington, Princeton, and also Bucks Country, Pa.

“The local customers are especially enthusiastic,” she adds. “They really like our Discount Day, when we offer 20 percent off for different groups. For example, Mindful Monday for students, Teacher Tuesday, and Warrior Wednesday with discounts for the military, veterans, and police officers. We wanted to reach out to the community in this way, and it is a big success.”

Abundant Opportunities

In addition to the cannabis products themselves, there is a selection of cannabis accessories, as well as noncannabis wellness and body care products. Also, an assortment of T-shirts, sweatshirts, and hats is available.

Prices cover a wide spectrum, with $25 a typical starting point, says Bruseloff, adding that all the products are competitively priced.

Overall, a visit to Pure Blossom offers an abundance of opportunities to explore the world of cannabis.

“We are looking forward to having seminars and workshops about cannabis to continue to educate people,” adds Bruseloff, “and we also plan to partner with local businesses for different events.”

A grand opening will be held on Thursday, April 18 throughout the day, with

“CREAM OF THE CROP”: High quality cannabis is available at Pure Blossom, the new cannabis dispensary in Pennington. “We strive to have the best products and keep up very high standards and a comfortable and educational space for everyone,” says COO Jordan Bruseloff. ”We choose our products very carefully, and It is very important to educate our customers about the many benefits of cannabis.”

a food truck and music on site. “This will be a fun event, and we hope everyone will come.”

Bruseloff is proud that Pure Blossom is becoming a destination stop and that she has the opportunity to help people explore the benefits of cannabis.

“I love to be here. I look forward to coming every day, and I love to work with

our staff and meet all the customers. Helping them to learn more is my great pleasure. Come visit us. We are here to stay!”

Pure Blossom is open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. For further information, call (609) 9283644. Visit the website at pureblossom.com.

—Jean Stratton

Newsstand Town Topics

Can be purchased Wednesday mor nings at the following locations:

Princeton

McCaffrey s

Kiosk Palmer Square

Speedy Mar t (State Road)

Wawa (Universit y Place)

Hopewell

Village Express

Rocky Hill

Wawa (Rt 518)

Pennington

Pennington Market

S ports

PU

Women’s

Open Rowers Shine at Ivy Invite, Displaying their Depth with Dominant Efforts

Lori Dauphiny was drained after her Princeton University women’s open rowing program hosted the Ivy Invite last weekend on Lake Carnegie.

The Tigers welcomed crews from Penn, Brown, USC, Rutgers, Dartmouth, Columbia, Harvard, and Cornell, sharing the water with the Princeton University men’s heavyweight and lightweight rowers who were also hosting regattas.

“We were really excited about it, I was pleased to be able to host; there were so many crews,” said Princeton open head coach Dauphiny, who credited boathouse administrator Tom Heebink with playing a key role in coordinating the logistics of the event. “The men were racing the Childs Cup and the lightweight men, the Platt Cup. It was a lot of fun because there was a ton of energy around the boathouse with all of the crews racing and with so many visiting crews. It was a big regatta. It pooped me out, I was exhausted by the end.”

The Princeton boats showed plenty of energy as they swept their races over the weekend.

The varsity 8 had a big victory on Friday, topping Harvard-Radcliffe and Cornell to earn the Class of 1975 Cup, posting a winning time of

6:10.02 over the 2,000meter course with Harvard taking second in 6:25.76 and Cornell coming in third at 6:52.21.

“That 1975 Cup is pretty special because that is one of the first classes of women at Princeton and they started that,” said Dauphiny. “They come back and they talk to the team; it is cool to see the women who came before us and really blazed the way. They laid the foundation for sure. It was a good race with Harvard early on and because we hadn’t done so well in the second half of the race against Brown (in a seasonopening win on March 30), that was something we were really focused on and did a good job.”

The Tiger top boat which features junior Katherine George, junior Anne du Croo de Jongh, junior Margot LeRoux, junior Zoe Scheske, junior Katharine Kalap, freshman Sam Smart, and freshman Joely Cherniss came through with another big win on Saturday, defeating Rutgers and USC. Princeton clocked a time of 6:19.9 with Rutgers finishing second in 6:25.8 and USC taking third in 6:43.4.

“That was very important, one of the reasons for the Ivy Invite is that cross-referencing, cross-pollination,” said Dauphiny. “USC only had one race before against

Stanford, the No. 1 boat in the nation. We didn’t know what to expect from them. It was a very good showing from the east coast crews. Everyone is always comparing margins — we had to do our best there. I think Rutgers felt the same way. The race unfolded as a Princeton-Rutgers race. Rutgers never faltered and never let down, they stayed right on us all the way down. I think USC may have lost a little heart and fell off.”

The squad’s top 4s showed their depth as Dauphiny flipflopped them over the two days of racing and they still posted a pair of dominant wins. On Friday, the Princeton A4 defeated HarvardRadcliffe and Cornell. The Tigers came in at 7:09.82 with the Crimson taking second in 7:25.05 and the Big Red placing third in 7:43.90. A day later, Princeton bested Rutgers and USC. The Tigers posted a winning time of 7:22.6 with the Scarlet Knights coming in second at 7:28.5 and the Trojans taking third in 7:46.2.

“So the A4 switched, the A4 was the B4 in the first set of racing and then the B4 was the A4 in the second set of racing,” explained Dauphiny. “We have not sorted out lineups yet, we are still working on lineups. There is a lot of depth in the 4s and they are really close in

OPEN INVITATION: The Princeton University women’s open varsity 8 churns through the water in recent action. Last weekend, Princeton’s top boat went 2-0 at the Ivy Invite on Lake Carnegie. On Friday, the Tigers topped Harvard and Cornell in the race for the Class of 1975 Cup and then topped Rutgers and USC a day later. In upcoming action, No. 3 Princeton heads to New Haven, Conn. on Saturday to face No. 5 Yale in the race for the Eisenberg Cup. (Photo

speed. It makes sense at this time to switch it up.”

The Princeton second varsity 8 also showed some speed over the weekend. On Friday, the boat defeated Harvard-Radcliffe and Cornell, posting a winning time of 6:21.84 with Crimson taking second in 6:34.91 and the Big Red placing third in 7:04.15. A day later, the Tigers beat Rutgers and USC, coming in at 6:28.9 with the Scarlet Knights second in 6:33.2 and the Trojans finishing third in 6:53.4.

“That is our NCAA team, the two 8s and the 4; the 2V continues to improve,” said Dauphiny. “They had a really nice week of training leading up to the Ivy Invite. It was some of their best. There is a lot of experience in that boat which you can see in their mature approach. I thought the racing went well. There are things we still need to work on in that boat. I thought overall they raced well back-toback.”

In Dauphiny’s view, the busy weekend was good

prep for postseason competition.

“It was good, going backto-back,” said Dauphiny. “Everyone was practicing that at the Ivy Invite to be able to race back-to-back because we will have to do that at our Ivy championship.”

While the Tiger crews are off to a good start, Dauphiny knows there is plenty of room for growth.

“I feel like we are still working on things, it is still a work in progress,” said Dauphiny. “I do like the way things have started. I am really excited to see what this crew can do in all boats.”

Dauphiny is excited about the camaraderie her rowers are displaying as they make progress.

“I think more than ever you see the team coming together,” added Dauphiny. “Boatings can sometimes fracture a team. I really see people working together, no matter what boat they are in. That is really important to us as a team, I am really proud of that. They are working hard to be a

strong team throughout. It showed in the Ivy Invite because our 4V8 ended up beating Rutgers 3V8. That is hard when you think about Princeton with 5,500 students and you think about Rutgers with 20,000. I think they have 90 on their roster because they have to equal out football. Everyone is going a great job.”

The No. 3 Tigers will need to keep doing a good job to remain undefeated as they face No. 5 Yale on the Housatonic River in New Haven, Conn. on April 20 in the race for the Eisenberg Cup.

“Yale will be tough, it is at their home,” said Dauphiny. “We will leave on Friday after class and will go up there and race on Saturday. It is challenging.Yale starts on a stagger on their course because there is a turn. We don’t race any other races this year where there is a turn on the 2,000-meter course. You have to stay in your lane and go around buoys and people can mess up. It is not an easy course.”

— Bill Alden

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DiPietrantonio Swinging a Hot Bat for PU Baseball

As Tigers Stay in Thick of Race for Ivy Playoff Spot

Nick DiPietrantonio has experienced the ups and downs that come with being a baseball player during his Princeton University career.

Last Saturday, they came in the same at bat.

His first swing in the bottom of the ninth inning in the Tigers’ second game against Harvard did not look like that of a hero.

“I just got fooled,” said Princeton University senior DiPietrantonio. “I took a terrible swing at a breaking ball in the dirt.”

But Matt Scannell moved up to second base on the pitch, and on his next swing, DiPietrantonio pounded a double into center field to score Scannell for a 5-4 walk-off win and earn a split of the doubleheader for the Tigers.

“I think that was my first walk-off hit, definitely in my Princeton career,” said infielder/outfielder DiPietrantonio, a 6’3, 210-pound native of Manalapan. “So it really felt special. I’ll always vividly remember when I rounded second base and the celebration was on and I certainly saw Caden Shapiro running full sprint at me with everyone following behind. That was a special moment.”

It’s been a bit of that trend for the Tigers and DiPietrantonio. They started the season slower than they had hoped with injuries hampering them, but they head into this weekend’s three-game series against Penn tied with the Quakers and Yale in third place at 6-6 in Ivy League play after losing two of three games to Harvard. The Crimson won Sunday’s game, 142. The top four teams will make the Ivy tournament after the regular season.

“Every weekend from now on is going to be the same general motivation of the must-win weekend,” said DiPietrantonio. “We approach each team a little bit differently depending on the matchups, but from here on out we’re fighting to make it into the final four teams. It’s anybody’s league. So I don’t really think there’s too much pressure, just because we know what we need to accomplish and how we need to go about it, the adjustments that need to be made as well.”

The Tigers, who are 10-19 overall, are hopeful that last weekend is a sign of things to come for DiPietrantonio. He went 5 for 13 in the series with a pair of doubles in Game 2.

“I’ve been trying to treat every at bat individually and turn the page from the last at bat and just focus on the circumstances of the current at bat,” said DiPietrantonio. “That definitely helped in the last hit, the game-winning hit on Saturday, just forgetting about everything that happened. I had a tough game, the first game especially of the doubleheader — I was 1 for 4 with three strikeouts and then the second game I was just trying to turn the page and look at what’s out in front of me.”

Now DiPietrantonio is looking ahead to a home game with Rider on April 17 before Princeton resumes Ivy play this weekend by hosting Penn for a three-game

series with a doubleheader on April 20 and a single game on April 21.

Sustaining his hot hitting would give Princeton a big boost.

“That’s the mystery of the game,” said DiPietrantonio, who is now hitting .255 with four homers, 11 RBIs and a slugging percentage of .439.

“You just never know how it’s going to play out. I think it’s just about keeping my head down and stick to the approach and keeping things simple with the overarching theme of just contributing to the team’s success.”

The Tigers got superb pitching in the first two games of the Harvard series, good enough to win the game with a little more offense. Will Sword was the tough-luck loser in Game 1 Saturday after going six innings and allowing three runs, two of them earned. He struck out nine and walked no one, but Princeton fell, 3-2.

“We had a lot of guys step up this weekend,” said DiPietrantonio. “We lost a tough one the first game, but Will Sword pitched really well. We had a lot of guys down with injuries this past weekend. So going into it, we knew that a lot of guys would have to be ready to step up when the moment came and our pitching was phenomenal the first two games.”

Elliot Eaton went the first four innings and allowed two earned runs as the Tigers built a one-run lead. Andrew

D’Alessio then pitched the final five and allowed one run in the ninth as Harvard tied it before DiPietrantonio’s heroics.

“Our pitching kept us in both games,” said DiPietrantonio. “Andrew D’Alessio threw very well in relief in the second game on Saturday and gave us a chance to pull that game out. Elliot Eaton did phenomenal and started Saturday, and that was a big step up for him.

Throughout the season, he’s been mostly out of the bullpen earning some significant innings, and then stepping up on Saturday was huge for him as a freshman. The bottom line was our pitching staff was pretty short this past weekend so to salvage one game was good to keep us in the mix.”

Seniors like DiPietrantonio are down to their final weeks with the program. He will be using his COVID-19 year of eligibility to finish a master’s degree in management at Duke University next year before he explores going to medical school. His graduate program will allow him some more time to focus on his baseball next year. His Princeton class is playing together for their final chance to return to the Ivy tournament, where the winner goes automatically to the NCAA tournament.

“That’s all we’ve ever wanted,” said DiPietrantonio. “All this class ever wanted was to win an Ivy League championship and take a shot

at winning the regional.” New Jersey native DiPietrantonio chose to stay close to home for the chance to balance great academics and baseball. He had a big jump last year to career highs with 45 hits, eight doubles, six home runs and 31 RBI with a .268 batting average. His average is coming back up this year to approach last year’s, and he’s only two doubles and two home runs away from tying his career highs.

“It’s been so special,” said DiPietrantonio. “It’s always been a dream of mine to come here and I’ve always been thankful for Coach [Scott] Bradley granting me the opportunity. I always say that the magnitude of the degree from Princeton will mean more as I get older and I’ll start to realize how special it is. But through the relationships I’ve developed here and coach Bradley’s wisdom, it’s made every day seem special.”

DiPietrantonio already has a special memory from his last series with Harvard. His walk-off game-winner kept Princeton in a tie for one of the final two spots for the Ivy tournament. He would like nothing more than to make some more memories in the final three Ivy weekends to extend their season into the postseason.

“It just comes down to accomplishing what we know we can accomplish,” said DiPietrantonio. “We, without a doubt, have the talent to do some special things as a group. Even regardless of who is injured, we know that everyone who steps up is capable of getting the job done.”

—Justin Feil

NICK OF TIME: Princeton University baseball player Nick DiPietrantonio takes off for first base in recent action. Last weekend, in a three-game series at Harvard, senior star DiPietrantonio went 5 for 13 with a pair of doubles in Game 2. Despite DiPietrantonio’s heroics, the Tigers went 1-2 against the Crimson, splitting a doubleheader on Saturday, losing 3-2 in the opener and then winning 5-4 in the nightcap, before falling 14-2 in the finale on Sunday. The Tigers,

now 10-19 overall and 6-6 Ivy League, host Rider on April 17 and then resume Ivy action this weekend by hosting Penn for a threegame series with a doubleheader on April 20 and a single game on April 21.

(Photo by Frank Wojciechowski)

PU Sports Roundup

Tiger Men’s Lax

Edged by Brown

Digging an early 6-0 hole against Brown last Saturday, the Princeton University men’s lacrosse rallied to tie the game at 8-8 and 12-12, but the comeback fell short as the Bears prevailed 13-12.

Colin Burns, Chad Palumbo, Tucker Wade, Coulter Mackesy, and Tommy Barnds each tallied two goals for Princeton in the loss.

The Tigers, now 7-4 overall and 2-2 Ivy League, host Penn on April 20.

PU Hockey Star Fillier

Helps Canada Win Worlds

Princeton University women’s hockey player Sarah Fillier has earned another gold medal for the Canadian women’s national team on the world stage.

Senior star forward Fillier helped Canada defeat the U.S. 6-5 in overtime last Sunday in the final of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Women’s World Championships held in Brampton, Ontario.

It marked the third gold medal in the last four years for Canada at the competition. Fillier had two goals and an assist during the seven games of the tournament, scoring a goal in the pool-play round in a 3-0 win over Switzerland and in a 4-0 win over Czechia in the semis.

The medal adds to Fillier’s successful run with the top Canadian team,

winning Olympic gold in 2022 along with the IIHF titles in 2021, 2022, and now 2024, and the IIHF silver medal in 2023.

Tiger Softball Sweeps Dartmouth

With its bats coming alive, the Princeton University softball team swept a three-game set with visiting Dartmouth last weekend at Strubing Field.

Princeton won both ends of a doubleheader from the Big Green on Saturday, prevailing 8-4 in the opener and 11-1 in five innings in the nightcap.

A day later, the Tigers culminated the weekend by winning 3-2. Julia Dumais had the go-ahead RBI with two out in the bottom of the sixth to put Princeton in front. Sophomore lefty pitcher Brielle Wright made some history in the win, getting all three outs in the top of the seventh to earn her seventh save of the season, tying the Ivy League record for single-season saves.

Princeton, now 19-11 overall and 8-4 Ivy, hosts Monmouth on April 17 and then gets back into Ivy action by playing three-game set at Yale with a doubleheader on April 20 and a single game on April 21.

PU Women’s Water Polo Defeats Harvard, Brown Ending regular season action in style, the No. 12 Princeton University women’s water polo team topped Harvard 10-6 and then defeated Brown 12-10 in action last Saturday.

Kayla Yelensky had a big day for the Tigers, totaling five goals as they improved to 20-6 overall and 10-0

Collegiate Water Polo Association (CWPA).

In upcoming action, the Tigers will compete in CWPA Championships from April 26-28 in Cambridge, Mass., where they are seeded No. 1.

Tiger Men’s Volleyball

Splits with Charleston

It was a mixed bag for the Princeton University men’s volleyball team as it a spilt a two-match set with the University of Charleston last weekend at Dillon Gym.

On Friday, Nyherowo

Omene had 22 kills for the Tigers, but it wasn’t enough as Charleston won 3-2 (2516, 19-25, 25-23, 18-25, 15-12).

A day later, Omene starred again, piling up 22 kills as Princeton bounced back with a 3-2 win, prevailing 16-25, 25-17, 26-24, 2125, 17-15.

The Tigers, now 12-11 overall and 5-5 Eastern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association (EIVA), are next in action when they compete in the EIVA Championships in State College, Pa.

PU Men’s Heavyweights

Win Childs Cup

Continuing its hot start to the 2024 season, the No. 4 Princeton University men’s heavyweight varsity 8 crew topped No. 9 Penn and No. 16 Columbia last Saturday to earn the Childs Cup.

Princeton posted a winning time of 5:34.4 over the 2,000-meter course on Lake Carnegie with Penn taking second in 5:40.0 and Columbia placing third in 5:52.7.

POURING IT ON: Princeton University women’s lacrosse players celebrate a goal through heavy rainfall in a game earlier this season. Last Saturday, the Tigers scored early and often as they defeated Brown 23-10. Freshman Meg Morrisroe led the way for the Tigers, pouring in eight goals to tie the program’s single-game record (with Kathleen Mahoney vs. Brown in 1981 and Catherine McCarthy vs. Yale in 1989) as Princeton improved to 8-4 overall and 4-1 Ivy League. She

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Tiger Men’s Lightweights

Defeat Cornell

Remaining undefeated on the spring, the Princeton University men’s lightweight varsity 8 edged Cornell last Saturday to earn the Platt Cup.

Princeton clocked a time of 5:40.27 over the 2,000-meter course on Lake Carnegie with Cornell taking second in 5:41.47 to secure the Platt Cup for the first time since 2018.

The Tigers will head to New England next weekend to face wharves in Cambridge, Mass, in the race for the Compton Cup.

The Tigers are next in action when they host Penn and Georgetown on April 20 as they race for the Wood/ Hammond Cup and the Fosburgh Cup.

PU Women’s Lightweights

Top Stanford

Prevailing in a matchup of national powers, the No. 1 Princeton University women’s lightweight varsity 8 defeated No. 4 Stanford last Saturday to earn the Class of 2015 Cup.

Princeton covered the 2,000-meter course in Redwood Shores, Calif, in 7:58.8 with Stanford coming in at 8:00.67.

The Tigers return to action when they host Georgetown on April 27 in the race for the Class of 2006 Cup.

Tiger Women’s Tennis Defeats Yale

Completing a 2-0 weekend, the Princeton University women’s tennis team defeated Yale 4-1 last Sunday.

Despite losing the doubles point, Princeton showed its strength in singles posting four straight-set wins at single to earn the victory.

The Tigers, who had defeated Brown 4-2 last Saturday, improved to 13-6 overall and 4-1 Ivy League.

Princeton hosts Dartmouth on April 20 and Harvard on April 21 to wrap up regular season action.

Princeton Men’s Tennis Edges Yale 4-3

Coming through in a tense contest, the Princeton

University men’s tennis team edged Yale 4-3 last Sunday. Alan Kam’s win at sixth singles clinched the victory for the Tigers as they improved to 21-6 overall and 4-1 Ivy League.

Princeton plays at Dartmouth on April 20 and at Harvard on April 21.

PU Women’s Track Shines at Ellis Event

Mena Scatchard and Georgina Scoot starred as the Princeton University women’s track team hosted its annual Larry Ellis Meet last weekend at Weaver Stadium.

Junior Scatchard placed first in both 1,500 meters and the 800 while sophomore Scoot won both the long jump and the triple jump. In addition, junior Siniru Iheoma placed first in the discus.

In upcoming action, Princeton will be competing in the Virginia Challenge in Charlottesville, Va., from April 18-20.

was later named the Ivy Offensive Player of the Week. By virtue of the victory, the Tigers secured a berth in the 2024 Ivy League postseason tournament set for the first weekend of May. Princeton hosts No. 8 Maryland on April 17 and Dartmouth on April 20. (Photo by Steven Wojtowicz)

Artwork by Nicole Steacy

Reynolds Helps Lead a Stifling Defensive Effort

As PHS Boys’ Lacrosse Defeats Allentown 6-4

As James Reynolds and the defensive unit for the Princeton High boys’ lacrosse team girded for their clash against Allentown last Thursday, they did their homework.

“It started two days before the game; the defensive players all gathered and we watched film,” said senior defender Reynolds. “We spent about two hours just going second by second on every one of their plays and players, running down their dominant hands. The preparation was the key to their entire game. It was all in the prep. It was all knowing who their guys were, calling out and knowing what to do.”

The Tigers had plenty of motivation as the Redbirds have been a thorn in their sides recently.

“The mindset is that we really wanted to win, the past two years we lost to them at home and away in the regular season and in the MCT,” said Reynolds. “We just wanted to get a win, that was all we focused on.”

That focus showed as PHS held Allentown to one goal in the first half as it built a 4-1 lead.

“We were ecstatic, it just all culminated,” said Reynolds, reflecting on the first half effort. “We just wanted to win it so badly. We said we are going to make them earn every goal and not give them any free shots.”

In the third quarter Allentown went on a run, tallying three unanswered goals to tie the game at 4-4.

“They had a lot of possession, that three-goal streak rattled us a little bit,” said Reynolds. “Going into the fourth quarter we said, ‘Hey, take a deep breath, we are a little tired. Get a drink, and then just play our game.’ It was just play lacrosse out there.”

The Tigers ended up playing some great lacrosse over the last 12 minutes of the contest, shutting the door on the Redbirds to pull out a 6-4 win.

“Our coach (Chip Casto) said just give it all you’ve got,” said Reynolds. “It was throw your body on the line and just sell out for every ground ball, every shot, every possession.”

As Reynolds heads down the stretch of his PHS career, he is determined to give his all.

“Coach [Jason] Carter and Coach Casto were saying, ‘You have to step up this year if we want to win anything,’” said Reynolds. “I took that to heart. I am just thinking about last year — it wasn’t a good season for me. So this year I want to make the best of everything in the last of every game.”

The PHS backline, which also features senior Anthony Famiglietti, junior Jack Crotty, and senior Frank McLaughlin in addition to Reynolds, has been raising its game.

“I think starting here, we are starting to turn into a real unit, a real small tight brotherhood,” said Reynolds. “I am really happy seeing us come together and I am excited to see what we can become in May.”

Reynolds, who helped anchor a special unit this fall as a defender on the PHS boys’ soccer team that went 22-2 and won the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) Group 4 state title, is applying some of that spirit on the lax field.

“In soccer, we said we are the base of our team,” said Reynolds. “If we can do our job, the offense can do whatever they want. They can score, they don’t have to worry about us.”

PHS head coach Chip Casto tipped his hat to the PHS defensive effort in the win over Allentown.

“Our defense really played well, we are just focusing on playing better team defense,” said Casto. “Sliding to the big shooters, we were trying to get to 23 (Sean McCaffery) a lot. We were playing the dodgers behind really well.”

Casto credited Reynolds with helping to spearhead the backline.

“We have been working on him just being patient and staying on the hips, using his feet, not his stick, to play defense,” said Casto of Reynolds. “He responded very well.”

The return junior goalie Corbin Kasziba helped PHS hold the fort.

“We finally got Corbin back after being out the whole year,” said Casto of Kasziba, who recorded nine saves in the win. “His influence showed, making a couple of big saves.”

After jumping out to a 3-0 lead in the first three minutes of the contest, PHS hit an offensive lull, scoring only one goal over the next 33 minutes.

“We got good shots but took bad shots,” said Casto. “We put ourselves in a position to take a good shot but we kept shooting it in the middle at the goalie. They played well for that stretch, they needed something to change the momentum from us. Their defense changed the momentum and then their offense started to kick in a little bit and all of a sudden it is 4-4.”

The one-two punch of senior attacker Patrick Kenah and junior midfielder Brendan Beatty came through when it counted as they each scored two goals and had one assist. Kenah tallied the go-ahead goal late in the third quarter as PHS went up 5-4 and then Beatty added the final tally of the contest midway through the third quarter.

“They sometimes get a little overworked, we need to make sure that we are getting other people better,” said Casto. “When we need it, they know it so they go get the ball. They are just special kids to have.”

In Casto’s view, the Tigers need to work hard on a daily basis to keep moving in the right direction.

“We are just trying to move through the CVC (Colonial Valley Conference) to get the best seeding for the counties and looking even bigger, we want to make sure that we are getting better every day,” said Casto, whose team topped Lawrence High 16-5 on Saturday to improve to 4-1 and plays at WW/P-South in April 18, hosts Pennsbury High (Pa.) on April 20, and plays at Cherokee on April 23.

“We would like to go deep in the tournament, that is one of our goals. It is a really, really heavy senior squad basically. The culture here is achievement and working on every rep. We are getting better every day and we got better today defensively so it was fun.

Reynolds, for his part, believes that the win over Allentown was a big boost for the squad.

“It is a total confidence builder, going into Lawrence and then Hun next week (on April 16),” said Reynolds.

“We really want to beat Hun because then we are set up for counties we are set up for states and just for future hard games.”

— Bill Alden

a

Princeton tradition!

Based on the novel by Alan Lightman ’70 Lighting Design by Jiyoun Chang Adapted and Directed by Cara Reichel ’96 Lewis Center for the Arts’ Princeton Atelier presents

COMING THROUGH: Princeton High boys’ lacrosse player Brendan Beatty heads upfield in a game last spring. Junior midfielder and Vermont

PHS Boys’ Tennis Produces Impressive 4-0 Start,

Primed to Contend for 2nd Straight MCT Crown

The Princeton High boys’ tennis team didn’t waste any time this spring making a statement.

Opening its season with a clash against perennial powerhouse and nemesis WW/P-South on April 5, PHS posted a 5-0 victory, winning four of the five matches in straight sets.

“We had a really great start to the season, it is always difficult to open up with one of your toughest rivals,” said PHS head coach Sarah Hibbert, whose team ended its 2023 season by falling 3-2 to the Pirates in the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) Central Jersey Group 3 final to end the season with a 14-2 record. “We were supposed to see them on opening day on April 1 and then we got rained out so it was still our opening match, but it was Friday rather than Monday. There were some close ones. There were tiebreaks in a couple of them and both doubles matches were close.”

Moving up to first singles this season, sophomore Garrett Mathewson has made an immediate impact in the top spot.

“It was great for him out of the gate to be able to play that well,” said Hibbert, referring to Mathewson’s 6-1, 6-2 win over Shritan Gopu of WW/P-S in the opener.

“Garrett came in the varsity singles lineup as a freshman, he had some really great matches for us. He

worked hard over the offseason and improved his game. He has added pace and consistency on his serve. His footwork, his overall mindset, and confidence are a bit better with a year of varsity experience under his belt and a year more of maturity. He is a confident, solid allaround player.”

PHS boasts a very solid player at second singles in senior Melvin Huang.

“Melvin has been rock in our lineup for four years; he came in as a freshman at third singles and worked his way up,” said Hibbert, whose team defeated Trenton Central 5-0 last Monday to improve to 4-0. “He played behind Jonathan [Guo] the last couple of years. He is a very steady position for us. He is one of the hardest workers around. He has increased his endurance, his strength, and power on shots.”

Sophomore Andrew Kuo worked his way into the third singles spot after playing doubles last spring.

“Andrew is a solid player, he was very close to the singles lineup last year with his consistency on his groundstrokes,” said Hibbert. “I think his mindset is better this year. He has improved his serve as well. He probably is a better singles player. He fit into the doubles lineup last year because he had such solid pieces to his game.”

good fit at first doubles.

“Aashil was our alternate last year, he was so close to our lineup and definitely did play a bunch of matches for us,” said Hibbert. “He was right there, so I am pleased that he is able to get in again. He has worked really hard on his game too. He has good pace and volleys. Aman is incredibly steady. You think you hit a winner on him four times and the ball just keeps coming back. So far, they have been working well together.”

At second doubles, junior Shaan Zaveri, freshman Tacto Yamada, and freshman Emil Kapur (Aman’s younger brother) are in the mix at second doubles with Zaveri and Yamada having seen action at the spot so far.

“Tacto comes in with very good doubles skills, he is a really solid volleyer, he has a nice serve and he has good doubles know-how,” said Hibbert. “Shaan has the year of experience last year, so we had them start off the season. Emil had some really good matches

in preseason. Because the preseason got so interrupted by rain and we had spring break and we haven’t had all of the time that we wanted to set things, those three will probably all see time in the lineup.”

With PHS having won the Mercer County Tournament team last year for the first time since 2003, Hibbert is cautiously optimistic that her squad can contend for the title again as the county tourney starts next Monday at the Mercer County Park Tennis Center.

“It really depends on the luck of the draw — you can get drawn against one of the best teams early on and may not be quite ready yet or somebody has a slightly off day,” said Hibbert, whose team is slated to host Allentown on April 18 in its final tune-up before the MCT. “Sometimes draws are favorable, sometimes they are not. We will certainly hope to have some people playing on the second day. We were finally able to break through last year. We are hoping to have similar success this year in the county but there a lot of good players. We take it day by day, match by match, and just hope for the best.”

—Bill Alden

son blasts a serve in a 2023 match. Sophomore Mathewson has moved up to first singles this spring and has helped PHS get off to a 4-0 start. In upcoming action, the Tigers are slated to host Allentown on April 18 before starting play in the Mercer County Tournament on April 22. (Photo by Frank

The pair of sophomore Aashil Patel and senior Aman Kapur have proven to be a -

Senior

Staub Starring

with her Arm and Bat

As Hun Softball Looking Formidable at 5-0

Jamie Staub was pumped up to get her first pitching start this spring for the Hun School softball team as it hosted the Peddie School last week.

“It is really exciting, we have such a deep pitching staff,” said Staub. “It is so great having three solid pitchers on the team. Whenever I get my chance, I have lots of fun.”

It turned out to be a very fun day for Staub as she fired a no-hitter with five strikeouts and two walks in a 15-0 win over the Falcons in the April 9 game that ended after four innings due to the run rule.

“I think my screw was on, the changeup was on,” said Staub, reflecting on her pitching gem. “Having the team behind me, they did great. There were solid shots to each corner and they knocked them both down. It is really easy to be confident when you have a good team behind you.”

While classmate and Villanova commit Lexi Kobryn has emerged as the ace of the Hun staff over the years, Staub has still been able to develop her pitching skills.

“It has been awesome having that right next to me, she definitely pushes me to be better,” said Staub of Kobryn. “Even watching her pitch or pitching myself, both are making me better. Being able to work with her, being able to watch her or pitch myself, it has been great.”

In addition to her pitching performance, Staub had a great day with the bat against Peddie, going 3 for 3 with two runs and two RBIs, highlighted by a homer in the bottom of the fourth inning that ended the contest.

“This is my second high school home run,” said Staub, who lined the ball over the right field fence. “It wasn’t really on my mind, I was just looking for a nice line drive. I think the key advice is always don’t swing for a home run and it happens. Coming off the momentum of Kailey Jacobs’ homer (in the first inning), I had that energy. It felt good I will say, but you never know for sure and then you see the parents cheering.”

Hitting cleanup in the Hun batting order has given Staub the chance to put up some good RBI numbers.

“It is definitely a comfy spot for me. We have a really solid one-two-three so it is nice, they are usually on base and they are so strong,” said Staub, who is hitting .538 this spring with four RBIs. “It is like a nice spot for me, it gives me a great opportunity to aim for some RBIs because they are always there. They always do a great job of starting us off.”

When Kobryn is pitching, Staub’s normal spot in the field is first base.

“I love first base, I have that natural angle (as a lefty),” said Staub, who plays club ball for the Rock Gold

program. “Picking it is just so fun. I love the specialty skills of the position, it has always been so fun for me.”

Next year, Staub will be taking her skills to Brandeis University, where she has committed to play for its softball program.

“I fell in love with the area, it is a great fit for me,” said Staub, reflecting on her college choice. “I wanted D-III because I wanted to be able to explore some other stuff, I do a lot of theater. I wanted a school where I could continue my softball career and still be able to keep up with theater. Boston is just lovely. I am really excited, I have been watching their games. I am recruited as a pitcher. We will see what happens. They have two pitchers this year and then me and another freshman are coming in next year. We will have three next year, including me. I think I am going to be primarily pitcher but the coaches said we will see what happens, wherever we need you.”

Hun head coach Kathy Quirk was excited to see Staub to star with her arm and bat against Peddie.

“It was nice for her to go out and go a full game,” said Quirk. “I have confidence in Jamie as a pitcher, but I also love her as a first baseman. Her hitting today was phenomenal, it is great for her confidence.”

The Raiders got good hitting throughout the lineup in the win over the Falcons as they pounded out 16 hits, starting the game by scoring six runs in the first inning.

“Bill (assistant coach Bill Quirk) asked them for five runs and they gave him six, we have just been hitting the ball,” said Quirk. “I didn’t know how our offense was going to be. Jacobs had a homer and yesterday she had the hit that stopped the game at five innings. They are just doing a nice job.”

Quirk pointed to junior

SPECIAL DELIVERY: Hun School softball player Jamie Staub delivers a pitch in a 2023 game. Last week, senior Staub fired a no-hitter in a 15-0 win over Peddie in a game that ended after four innings due to the run rule. Hun, which topped Lawrence Hugh 4-0 last Saturday to improve to 5-0, hosts Hightstown on April 18, the Blair Academy on April 20, and Villa Joseph Marie (Pa.) on April 22.

catcher Emma Eisenberg and junior third baseman Brianna Riviello as key contributors.

“Emma has really stepped it up,” said Quirk. “Yesterday, her bat was alive and she hit well today. She is doing a great job behind the plate. Bri, our third baseman, had some nice hits. She has come a long way, I am really pleased with her.” Looking ahead, Quirk is cautiously optimistic about her squad’s prospects.

“I just hope we can continue, everyone is gunning for us,” said Quirk, whose team which topped Lawrence High 4-0 last Saturday to improve to 5-0 and hosts Hightstown on April 18, the Blair Academy on April 20, and Villa Joseph Marie (Pa.) on April 22. “It is going to be a different game against them at Peddie and it will be a different game against Lawrenceville at Lawrenceville.”

Staub, for her part, is hoping that she and Kobryn,

the squad’s only seniors, can go out in a blaze of glory as Hun goes for a third straight Prep A state title. “It is just us two; three championships in a row would be nice, that is obviously what we both want,” said Staub. “I think it is just play hard, have fun. We have the making to do some really special things. We have got the talent, we have got the chemistry. I am hoping that we can keep it up this year.”

—Bill Alden

(Photo by Frank Wojciechowski)

Baseball : Mike Olender and Will Kraemer each had two hits but it wasn’t enough as Hun fell 10-3 to Gloucester Catholic last Sunday. The Raiders, who moved to 6-1 with the loss, host the Pennington School on April 18 and the Blair Academy on April 20 before playing at Allentown High on April 23.

Boys’ Lacrosse : Posting its second straight win, Hun defeated the Blair Academy 17-13 last Saturday. The Raiders, who improved to 3-2 with the victory, play at the Hill School (Pa.) on April 17 before hosting Vandermont Academy (Texas) on April 12 and the Lawrenceville School on April 23.

Girls’ Lacrosse : Ava Olender led the way as Hun defeated the Pennington School 15-10 last Monday. Senior star Olender tallied six goals and five assists to help the Raiders improve to 4-2. Hun plays at the Hill School (Pa) on April 17 before hosting the Shipley School (Pa.) on April 20.

Baseball : Chris Trucano went 3 for 4 with one RBI in a losing cause as Lawrenceville fell 3-2 to the Pennington School last Monday. The Big Red, now 1-7, play at the Blair Academy on April 17, host the Hill School (Pa.) on April 20, and then play at Princeton High on April 23.

Girls’ Lacrosse: Maddie Brogan tallied four goals and two assists but it wasn’t enough as Lawrenceville fell 15-9 to Summit High last Saturday. The Big Red, now 4-4, play at Sacred Heart, Greenwich (Conn.) on April 17 and at the Blair Academy on April 22 before hosting Agnes Irwin (Pa.) on April 22.

Hun Lawrenceville Pennington PHS PDS

Baseball : Managing just one hit, PDS lost 11-1 to Steinert last Monday. The Panthers, now 0-4, play at Princeton High on April 18, at South Hunterdon on April 20, and at Hopewell

then hosts Hightstown on April 23.

Girls’ Lacrosse : Riley Devlin tallied five goals and two assists as PHS fell 15-9 at Montgomery last Saturday. The Tigers, now 4-2, host Hightstown on April 17, play at Lawrence High on April 19, host Monroe on April 20, and play at Northern Burlington on April 22.

attend these two sessions. In addition, college aged freshman born in 2005 are also be eligible to play.

for 32 years of service.

Baseball : Ryan Richter came up big to help Pennington defeat the Lawrenceville School 3-2 last Monday. Richter went 2 for 3 at the plate and pitched five innings to get the win on the mound as the Red Hawks improved to 4-4.

Pennington plays at the Hun School on April 18, at Lawrence High on April 20, and at the Peddie School on April 23.

Boys’ Lacrosse : Unable to get its offense going, Pennington fell 9-3 to Pennsbury High last Monday. Luca Sweetman scored two goals in the defeat for the Red Hawks, who moved to 1-4.

Pennington hosts the Lawrenceville School B team on April 18

Girls’ Lacrosse : Hailey Adamsky starred in a losing cause as Pennington lost 1510 to the Hun School last Monday. Adamsky scored six goals and had one assist for the Red Hawks, now 2-3. Pennington plays the Blair Academy on April 17 and at George School (Pa.) on April 22 before hosting the Peddie School on April 23.

Boys’ Golf : Benji Tartar and Peter Eaton went 1-2 as PHS defeated Allentown 154-168 last Thursday. Tartar shot a two-over 37 on the nine-hole track at the Princeton County Club while Eaton fired a 38 for the Tigers, now 5-0. PHS plays Hopewell Valley on April 17 at the Trenton Country Club, Princeton Day School on April 18 at Bedens Brook Country Club, Ewing on April 22 at Mountain View Golf Course, and WW/ Plainsboro-North on April 23 at Mercer Oaks West Golf Course.

Girls’ Golf : Jacqueline

Zang led the way as PHS defeated WW/P-South 163202 last Monday. Junior Zang carded a two-under 34 on the nine-hole layout at the Princeton County Club as the Tigers improved to 3-0. PHS faces Allentown on April 22 at the Springdale Golf Club and Robbinsville on April 23 at the Cream Ridge Golf Course.

The Mercer County American Legion season runs from late May through midJuly and involves playing approximately 20 games with teams from around the Greater Mercer County Area. The competition level is high and all players will receive adequate playing time to develop their game. The summer fee is $595. Scholarships are available.

For more information on the program and to RSVP for the tryouts, contact Jon Durbin at jonwdurbin@ gmail.com.

Mercer Tennis Hall of Fame

Announces Class of 2024

The Mercer County Park Commission has announced the Mercer County Tennis Hall of Fame Class of 2024, which features five honorees who have made extraordinary achievements in the field of tennis and expanded the popularity of the sport.

The Hall of Fame dinner will be held on June 14 at 6 p.m. at the Boathouse at Mercer Lake in Mercer County Park, West Windsor.

The Mercer County Tennis Hall of Fame was initiated in 1992 by the Mercer County Tennis Council to recognize people with ties to the County who have made outstanding contributions to the sport. Since the dissolution of the Tennis Council, the Mercer County Park Commission has overseen the nominating committee, voting process, and dinner committee. The Hall of Fame honors individuals for their involvement in competition, education, officiating, recreation, media, industry, or in the advancement of tennis.

teams as 814 crews representing 54 teams from eight states have registered to compete.

Since the Princeton National Rowing Association (PNRA) first organized this regatta in 2005 it has grown both in size and reputation to draw the nation’s top high school rowers.

The first race is scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m. on April 20. Racing over the 2,000 meter course will continue until 6:30 p.m. on Saturday. Sunday’s racing is scheduled from 8:00 a.m.4:30 p.m.

Baseball : Michael Prete and Ben Walden each had three hits but it wasn’t enough as PHS lost 9-5 to Nottingham last Monday. The Tigers, who dropped to 1-4 with the loss, host the Princeton Day School on April 18, South Hunterdon on April 19, play at Cinnaminson on April 20 and then host Allentown on April 22.

Softball : Eko Brown and Natalie Hester starred in a losing cause as PHS fell 5-2 to Lawrenceville last Monday. Brown and Hester each had two hits as the Tigers moved to 2-2. PHS hosts Hopewell Valley on April 19, plays at Ewing on April 20 and then hosts Allentown on April 22.

Lacrosse : Excelling at both ends of the field as it posted its first win of the season, Stuart defeated Nottingham 15-3 last Monday. The Tartans, now 1-3, host Gill St. Bernard’s on April 18 and Hamilton West on April 22 before playing at Bridgewater-Raritan on April 23.

Local Sports

Princeton Post 218 Baseball Holding Player Evaluations

The Princeton American Legion Post 218 baseball team is holding player evaluations/workouts on April 21 and 28 from 12-2 p.m. at Smoyer Park.

The program encourages all interested high school players from Princeton High, Princeton Day School, Hun School, WW/P-South, WW/P-North, and Notre Dame High, or any players who live in the towns of Princeton and Cranbury to

The Class of 2024 includes Jim Cryan, co-director of the Cryan Memorial Tennis Tournament; Mike Ehrenberg, longtime director of the G. Nelson Green Memorial Tournament; Ginny Mason, a founding member and continuous supporter of National Junior Tennis and Learning of Trenton (NJTL); Glenn Michibata, a Wimbledon doubles ssemifinalist, a former Princeton University men’s tennis head coach, current assistant coach at The College of New Jersey, and Princeton Tennis Program Teaching Professional; and Betty Sander Thompson, who is receiving a posthumous honor and had received a USTA Umpire Emeritus Award

Induction ceremonies are held every four years, with the honorees selected by 50 leaders in the area’s tennis community. Criteria for induction stipulate that “the record of achievement must be balanced by a reputation that can be admired and respected. Membership is intended to represent a highly selective group.”

Tickets for the Hall of Fame dinner are $100 per person. For more information or to receive an electronic invitation, contact Marc Vecchiolla via email at mvecchiolla@mercercounty.org or by phone at (609) 448-2088.

Mercer Sprints Regatta

Slated for April 20

The 19th annual Mercer Lake Sprints and ISA Championship Regatta is being held from April 20-21. The event has drawn a record number of rowing

The Mercer Lake Sprints is the first major regatta of the 2024 spring season that PNRA is hosting on Mercer Lake. From May 11-12, it will be holding the USRowing Mid-Atlantic Regional Youth Championship Regatta, which gives high school rowers the opportunity to qualify for the USRowing National Youth Championships. From May 30- June 1, PNRA will host the Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRA) national championship regatta.

For more information, contact PNRA Executive Director Kristopher Grudt at (609) 977-1094 or krisgrudt@rowpnra.org.

TOWN

MAKING STRIDES: Runners hit their stride last Saturday morning in the Princeton Athletic Club’s (PAC) 6,000-meter run in the Institute Woods. The event drew 99 participants with Julian Ost, 28, of Princeton placing first in a time of 22:53.5. Haley Anderson, 34, of Princeton was the top female finisher, taking 16th overall in 30:29.6.

200 CLUB: Princeton Day School girls’ lacrosse player Tessa Caputo, left, looks to unload the ball in a 2023 game. Last Monday, senior star and Fairfield University commit Caputo scored three goals, including the 200th of her career, as PDS defeated Hopewell Valley 15-6. The Panthers, now 5-1, host the Peddie School on April 17, play at Allentown on April 19, and then host Somerville on April 22.

(Photo by Frank Wojciechowski)

Valley on April 22.

Boys’ Lacrosse : Unable to get its offense going, PDS fell 9-2 to Robbinsville last Thursday. Matt Whittaker scored both goals for the Panthers as they moved to 2-2. PDS plays at Hopewell Valley in April 18 and

Obituaries

Mrs. Nancy Joan Glace Van Pelt, 91 years young, entered into the Kingdom of Heaven on April 4, 2024. Born in Pittsburgh, PA, she lived in Pittsburgh, Lawrenceville, NJ, and later moved to Aiken, SC. She worked for Ketchum, McCloud & Grove, an advertising agency in Pittsburgh, for 4 years and for Valentine’s in Lawrenceville, NJ, a furniture and design business, for 13 years.

Daughter of Clement Hortanac and Madelyn Johana Glace Kanasko. Proceeded in death by her parents and son William Clark and husband William Herrmann. Lovingly remembered by her daughters Lisa (Noble)

Van Pelt-Diller and Meredith Van Pelt of Aiken, SC, and grandsons Maxwell Van Pelt Diller (Maggie Martin) of Phoenix, AZ, and Bennett

Van Pelt Diller of San Diego, CA. Also, survived by sister Jean Dunn of Ashland, OH. She attended Robert

Morris Business College in Pittsburgh, PA, and had a lifetime interest in fashion, art, and classical music. She was a member of the Aiken Symphony Orchestra Guild, as well as a member of the Women of Woodside. She was a passionate fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers football team. She filled her days reading books and the New York Times while enjoying her loving family and friends. She was a social, elegant butterfly who was and always will be unforgettable.

A Celebration of Life for both Nancy and William will be held on Friday, May 24, 2024, from 2 to 4 p.m., at The Constantine House, 3406 Richland Avenue, W, Aiken, SC 29801.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Friends of Aiken Symphony (friendsofaikensymphony. org) and The Aiken Center for the Arts (aikencenterforthearts.org).

The Historic George

Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 211 Park Avenue, SW, Aiken, SC 29801 (803649-6234), has charge of arrangements.

Expressions of sympathy for the family may be left by visiting georgefuneralhomes.com.

Brooke A. Johnson

Brooke A. Johnson, 54, of Princeton, NJ, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, joining her beloved father, George, after his sudden death last year.

Brooke was a fifth generation Princetonian born at the old Princeton hospital in August 1969. She grew up in the heart of downtown, skipping under Witherspoon’s pear trees, selling lemonade in front of Johnson Electric, picking wild strawberries, and chasing fireflies along Wiggins and Park Place.

She attended Community Park Elementary School, graduated from Princeton High, and went on to attend the universities of North Carolina and New Hampshire where she studied environmental sciences. An avid outdoors woman, Brooke spent much of her

time hiking and camping, and lived in her tent for months on end reading, meditating, and photographing the beauty around her. Her photos of Carnegie Lake and the birdlife there were spectacular.

Brooke was also an avid follower of the Grateful Dead and the Blues Travelers bands, and in her younger years traveled all across America with her brother George to see them. Likewise, she attended many a Broadway show, always a lover of a good story, especially any Edward Albee or Stephen Sondheim production.

But one of her biggest passions was cooking. After working for a stint in Princeton Hospital’s kitchen as a young teenager, the cooking bug stuck, and Brooke continued in the cooking industry throughout her adult life. After college she spent several years in Boston honing her skills as a baker, and upon returning to Princeton worked at the Institute for Advanced Study and Princeton University in their food services departments, at Theresa’s on Palmer Square as their hostess, at Princeton Junction train station’s En-Route snack shop, and at the Blawenburg Market where she gave cooking and pastry making classes. In 2010 Brooke began her own successful catering business, “Cook with Brooke,” serving dinners for Prince Albert of Monaco and Governor Phil Murphy among many others.

her Aunt Peggy (Margaret) and Flavio Fener; Thomas H. Johnson (deceased) and Josephine Johnson; Linda Lee Nestor; Marta Lowe and Jeffery Lowe (deceased); and Martin F. Nestor (deceased).

Many cousins including Heidi Fener (deceased), Heather Fener and Brandon Kessler; Thomas E. Shockley Jr. (deceased); Lindsay Lowe, Molly and Brian Rooney; and other family members, Sue Bruswitz, Caroline Clancy, and Missy and Kenny Bruvick. And her special friends Kelly, Robin and Matt, and Zuzu.

A memorial service for both Brooke and her late father George W. Johnson will be held at 8 p.m. on Friday, April 19, 2024, at the Mather-Hodge Funeral Home 40 Vandeventer Avenue, Princeton.

Visitation will be held from 6 p.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Princeton Fire Department and to SAVE Animal Shelter.

their graphic design/printing business, Minute Press, which Linda ran until 1988. She was an artist and businesswoman, having started a number of businesses including DesignWrite, a medical education company, in 1993 with Mitch which survives to this day. Linda retired after Teddy’s death in 2002. In March of 2009, Linda and Mitch were married at their home on Casey Key.

Linda was a wonderful mother and a well-loved member of every community she lived in. A travel enthusiast, she enjoyed incredible trips to some of the most exciting places in the world. She was a woman whose devotion to family and friends was her guiding principle and most important legacy.

Gone too soon, Linda loved this life filled with so much joy and friendship. She will be deeply missed by so many.

A memorial service will be held at Princeton Cemetery on May 18, 2024 at 4 p.m. She will be buried near her parents and son, Teddy.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Linda’s name to HomeFront (1880 Princeton Avenue, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648), an important organization in the Princeton and surrounding community working to break the cycle of poverty.

Religion

Pennington Methodists Celebrate With Organ Music, Hymn Singing

Linda Baruch Leon

During the pandemic her catering business took a hit and Brooke returned to her love of nature and animals to start a dog walking business. “Cook with Brooke” became “Walk with Brooke” as she turned to her childhood stomping grounds once again, walking dogs on downtown streets, hiking Princeton’s parks, and photographing it all.

Linda Baruch Leon passed away peacefully, surrounded by loving family on April 10, 2024 due to complications of Alzheimer’s disease. She was 75 and had resided on Casey Key in Nokomis, FL, since 2004.

The Pennington United Methodist Church (PUMC) will be hosting a Hymn Sing and Organ Recital on Sunday, April 21 at 3 p.m., the second program in its 250th Anniversary Series.

Brooke took the loss of her Dad in the summer of 2023 very hard. Her Father’s close friends Doug Hoffman, Noel Sabatino, and Mike Miller, along with the Princeton Fire Department were a huge comfort to her and her family. She once said, after her Dad passed away, that she vowed to continue to give her time to those in need of help, to live a life of service just as her Dad always did. All who knew them both would certainly agree that she was “her Father’s daughter,” and Brooke would have taken this as the highest of compliments.

These words cannot do justice for the incredible life that Linda led and the significant impact she had on the people around her. Linda was a remarkable and courageous woman. She will be remembered most for her generosity, her bravery, and how she lived life on her own terms.

The church will be joined by organists from the American Guild of Organists’ (AGO) Central New Jersey Chapter, who will play organ settings of hymns and other works related to the Methodist hymnal.

Methodists have been known as “a singing people” from the beginning of Methodism in the mid-1700s, a PUMC press release reports.

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In 1761 John Wesley, the originator of the Methodist movement, reminded his followers of the purpose of singing: “Sing all. Sing lustily and with good courage. Beware of singing as if you were half dead or half asleep! Do not bawl so as to be heard above the rest of the congregation but strive to unite your voices together.”

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Linda is survived by her husband, Mitchell Leon, and her daughter, Lindsay Sullivan (Steve Trimble). She was a wonderful stepmother and loved dearly by Anya Olin-Leon and Noah Leon (Nicole Leon). Linda is also survived by her six grandchildren: Audrey Trimble, Nora Trimble, Victoria Costa Silva, Oliva Costa Silva, Mia Leon, and Asher Leon as well as her five siblings, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Linda was predeceased by her son, Teddy Sullivan.

Charles Wesley, John Wesley’s brother, wrote the words to more than 6,500 hymns, including many that are still widely sung.

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But no matter what difficulty she faced, Brooke always managed to turn it around. She brought light and passion to whatever she did, her loud cheer and laughter never failed to light up a room, and her hilarious storytelling could rival any Sondheim. She will be sorely missed by all who knew her, including her menagerie of furry friends whom she cared for with love and respect.

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ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

Daughter of the late George W. Johnson, she is survived by her mother Catherine Nestor Johnson, and a brother George W. Johnson. Brooke’s grandparents, deceased, were Dorothy L. Nestor and Martin S. Nestor and Cecilia M. Johnson and Reuben F. Johnson.

Brooke is also survived by

Linda was born January 16, 1949 and lived in Baltimore, MD, until her family moved to Princeton, NJ, in 1954. She attended Westover School in Middlebury, CT, and the University of Denver where she majored in fine arts. In 1970 Linda married Brian Sullivan. Although their marriage ended after 30 years, they remained good friends and co-parents of Lindsay and Teddy.

In 1972, Linda returned from Denver to Princeton to work with her mother in

The PUMC, located at 60 South Main Street in Pennington, invites everyone to the concert and hymn sing with a reception afterwards to meet the musicians and enjoy food and fellowship. Visit pumcnj.com for more information.

well loved and well read since 1946

Nancy Joan Glace Van Pelt

WILLIAM F. FURLONG PAINTING & DECORATING: Pressure

Residential, Industrial & Commercial. (609) 466-2853. Skillman. 04-24

HOME HEALTH AIDE/COMPANION AVAILABLE: NJ certified and experienced. Live-in or live-out. Driver’s license. References available. Please call Cindy, (609) 227-9873. 05-08

KARINA’S HOUSECLEANING: Full service inside. Honest and reliable lady with references. Weekly, biweekly or monthly. Call for estimate. (609) 858-8259. 05-29

www.nspapartment. com. 04-24

HANDYMAN–CARPENTER: Painting, hang cabinets & paintings, kitchen & bath rehab. Tile work, masonry. Porch & deck, replace rot, from floors to doors to ceilings. Shelving & hook-ups. ELEGANT REMODELING. You name it, indoor, outdoor tasks. Repair holes left by plumbers & electricians for sheetrock repair. RE agents welcome. Sale of home ‘checklist’ specialist. Mercer, Hunterdon, Bucks counties. 1/2 day to 1 month assignments. CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED, Covid 19 compliant. Active business since 1998. Videos of past jobs available. Call Roeland, (609) 933-9240. tf

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. 06-28-24

TOWN TOPICS CLASSIFIEDS

GET TOP RESULTS!

Whether it’s selling furniture, finding a lost pet, or having a garage sale, TOWN TOPICS is the way to go! We deliver to ALL of Princeton as well as surrounding areas. (609) 924-2200 ext. 10; classifieds@towntopics.com

ESTATE LIQUIDATION SERVICE:

I will clean out attics, basements, garages & houses. Single items to entire estates. No job too big or small. In business over 35 years, serving all of Mercer County. Call (609) 306-0613. 06-28-24

SPRING IN NEW JERSEY

Springtime in New Jersey is a spectacle to behold, as the Garden State lives up to its name with an explosion of colors and scents. As the winter chill fades away, nature awakens in a burst of vibrant life. One of the most enchanting sights is the blooming of flowering trees across the state.

From cherry blossoms to magnolias, New Jersey's landscape transforms into a painting of pastel hues. Parks, gardens, and even neighborhood streets are adorned with delicate petals, creating a breathtaking panorama that attracts locals and visitors alike.

The delicate fragrance of blossoms fills the air, inviting leisurely strolls and quiet moments of contemplation. Whether it's the iconic cherry blossoms in Branch Brook Park or the quaint charm of small town streets lined with flowering dogwoods, each sight is a reminder of nature's beauty and resilience.

In the embrace of spring, New Jersey's flowering trees offer not just a visual feast, but also a sense of renewal and hope for the days ahead.

Come see this beautiful 450 sq ft office in the heart of Princeton’s downtown. This high-profile location is perfect for a small business - especially if you work with locals or

• $1,500 / month (incl. heat, A/C, electric, water)