‘What Became of Us’ at George Street Playhouse, page 7; Film-ready designation boosts local towns, page 10.
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Opportunities: Affordable Housing Lottery
rinceton Community Housing is accepting preliminary applications for nine affordable rental units at its new 195 Nassau Street community, located near the intersection of Nassau and Moore streets in the heart of downtown Princeton.
The development places residents within walking distance of Princeton University, as well as shops, restaurants, and transit options along the Nassau Street corridor.
The apartments are part of Princeton Community Housing’s broader effort to expand access to high-quality, income-restricted housing in the region.
Units will be available to qualified households that meet income and eligibility requirements under New Jersey’s affordable housing guidelines.
As administrative agent, Princeton Community Housing will oversee the application process, verify applicant eligibility, and conduct a random selection lottery to determine placement.
Preference will be given to residents and workers of Mercer, Monmouth, and Ocean counties. Applicants selected through the lottery will be contacted to complete the next steps in the leasing process, while eligible applicants not selected will be placed on a waiting list for future openings.
Preliminary applications must be submitted by Friday, May 8, at 5 p.m. to be included in the lottery. There is no application fee. The lottery is expected to take place approximately 15 to 20 days after the deadline, with occupancy anticipated in summer 2026.
For information or to apply, visit
pchhomes.org/195nassau or call 609-924-3822, ext. 2.
Small Business Improvement Grant
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority offers reimbursement grants to small businesses and nonprofits for interior and exterior improvements, including construction, fixtures, and equipment purchases.
The program is designed to help businesses grow, improve operations, and enhance customer-facing spaces. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, subject to funding availability. For information, njeda.com.
SCORE Mentoring Program
keting, and operations, with support available for both new ventures and established companies looking to expand. Services are available yearround through regional offices. For information, see njsbdc.com.
Young Performers Workshop Summer Intensive
Between The lines
The SCORE Central New Jersey provides experienced business professionals who offer free mentoring, workshops, and practical resources for starting and growing a business. Entrepreneurs can receive guidance on business planning, marketing, financing, and operations through ongoing support. Services are available year-round. For information, see score.org.
Small Business Consulting
Free advise and training for startups and growing businesses. The New Jersey Small Business Development Center offers no-cost consulting, training programs, and resources for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Advisors provide guidance on business planning, financing, mar-
Centenary Stage Company is accepting applicants for its five-week summer intensive, running Monday, July 6 through Sunday, August 9, with training in acting, voice, dance, and production culminating in public performances during the Summer Festival of Shows. The program serves beginning through advanced performers, with all students accepted following an interview with the program director; auditions are held for placement. Registration deadline is Wednesday, July 1. Tuition is $600, with discounts for additional family members. For information, call 908-9790900 or email centenary.stageco@ centenaryuniversity.edu.
LPN to RN Program
Middlesex College will offer a three-semester program allowing New Jersey Licensed Practical Nurses to earn an associate degree in nursing and prepare for the NCLEX-RN in one year. The program combines classroom instruction, hands-on clinical experience, and simulation training, and is designed to support working professionals seeking career advancement. Students also gain access to a network of regional healthcare partners. Registration begins August 2026. For information, middlesexcollege.edu.
American Repertory Ballet Auditions
American Repertory Ballet accepts audition submissions for company positions, trainees, and summer programs. Opportunities are open to advanced dancers seeking professional or pre-professional training, with materials reviewed on a rolling basis throughout spring and summer. Programs offer performance opportunities, professional instruction, and exposure to a nationally recognized ballet company. For information, go to arballet.org.
Veteran Entrepreneurship Training Program
Rider University is accepting applications for its Veteran Entrepreneurship Training program, a sixweek course designed to help participants develop a business idea or expand an existing venture.
The program is offered through the university’s Center for Entrepreneurial Studies and is limited to 20 participants to ensure individualized instruction and feedback. Participants will learn how to evaluate business concepts, conduct feasibility analysis, and build a foundation for launching or growing a venture. The program also provides access to university resources and one-on-one mentorship from experienced business professionals and program alumni.
Sessions will be held Wednesday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. from May 13 through June 24 on Rider’s Lawrenceville campus. Applications are open through Friday, May 8, or until capacity is reached. There is no cost to participate. For information or to apply, visit rider.edu/vep.
SURVIVAL GUIDE
Friday, April 10
AI, Capitalism the Focus of IAS Public Lecture
Artificial intelligence and its growing impact on markets, jobs, and business strategy will be the focus of an upcoming public lecture at the Institute for Advanced Study.
John Cassidy, a longtime economics writer for The New Yorker, will present “A.I. and the Crisis of Capitalism: A Historical Approach” on Friday, April 10, at 5:30 p.m. in Wolfensohn Hall.
The talk draws on his 2025 book, Capitalism and Its Critics, and will examine how artificial intelligence may trigger a new phase of economic disruption — and how businesses and policymakers might respond.
For business leaders, the impacts of AI are already underway. Cassidy recently reported in his column that investor reaction to AI has erased “hundreds of billions of dollars of value” across sectors as companies confront the possibility that core functions — particularly in white-collar industries — could be automated or fundamentally reshaped.
Enterprise software firms, financial services companies, and other knowledgebased sectors have been especially exposed, reflecting concern not just about efficiency gains but about structural change. Market swings tied to AI expectations highlight how quickly valuations — and business outlooks — can shift as the technology evolves.
At the company level, Cassidy points to a widening divide in how AI is being deployed. Some firms are using it to augment workers and improve productivity; others are using it to cut headcount or intensify oversight. That split underscores a central question for executives: whether AI will ultimately expand human capability or displace it.
Cassidy’s lecture places that question in a longer historical context. In Capitalism and Its Critics, he examines earlier moments when new technologies transformed the economy, focusing on how those shifts were experienced — and challenged — by workers, thinkers, and policymakers.
He writes about the rise of the factory system in 18th-century England, where mechanization drove major increases in output while reorganizing labor around strict schedules and centralized workplaces. The system delivered efficiency and growth, but also introduced new forms of discipline and inequality that became flashpoints for criticism.
Looking back on that transformation, historian Eric Hobsbawm described industrialization as “probably the most important event in world history, at any rate since the invention of agriculture and cities.”
Cassidy’s account also follows capitalism’s expansion beyond national borders, including its connection to global trade and corporate power. Early multinational enterprises such as the British East India Company drew sustained criticism for exploitative practices and market control. As one contemporary observer wrote, “The roguery practised in this department is beyond imagination.”
Across these examples, Cassidy emphasizes a recurring pattern: technological and economic advances generate substantial growth, but also concentrate power and create pressures on labor markets. Those tensions, he suggests, are not anomalies but built-in features of how capitalism evolves.
That perspective carries direct implications for the current AI moment. Rather than viewing artificial intelligence as an unstoppable external force, Cassidy points to a growing body of economic thinking that stresses agency — the idea that policy choices, corporate decisions, and market structures will shape how the technology is deployed and who benefits from it.
John Cassidy, a staff writer at ‘The New Yorker,’ will discuss how artificial intelligence could reshape capitalism during an April 10 public lecture at the Institute for Advanced Study.
For businesses, that means the outcome is not predetermined. Decisions about hiring, training, capital investment, and technology integration will influence whether AI acts primarily as a productivity enhancer or a labor-reducing tool. At the same time, broader policy debates — including taxation, regulation, and worker protections — are likely to play an increasing role in defining the competitive landscape.
Cassidy has been a staff writer at The New Yorker since 1995 and writes the magazine’s regular economics column, “The Financial Page.” Over the years, he has covered globalization, financial crises, inequality, and technological change, often focusing on how large economic shifts affect both markets and workers.
His previous books include How Markets Fail: The Logic of Economic Calamities and Dot.Con: How America Lost Its Mind and Money in the Internet Era
The April 10 lecture is presented through the Dr. S. T. Lee Fund for Historical Studies. Registration is required. More information is available at ias.edu.
Business Meetings
Wednesday, April 1
Networking, BNi Falcons, IHOP, 610 Route 33, East Windsor, 877-264-0500. www. bninjpa.org. Hybrid meeting with structured networking and member presentations. 7 to 8:30 a.m.
Thursday, April 2
Networking, BNi Tigers Chapter, Conference Center at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor, 609-570-3237. www.bninjpa.org. In-person meeting with structured referrals and member speaker presentation. 7 to 8:30 a.m.
Networking, BNi Top Flight, Town Diner, 431 Route 130, East Windsor, 609-4438222. www.bninjpa.org. Weekly business networking meeting focused on referrals and relationship-building. 7 a.m.
Networking, X-Factor BNi, VFW 133, 485 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick, 908-4216151. www.bninjpa.org. Networking meeting with business presentations and referral opportunities. 7 to 8:30 a.m.
JobSeekers, Professional Service Group of Mercer County, Plainsboro Public Library, 9 Van Doren Street, Plainsboro. www.psgofmercercounty.org. Weekly job search support and networking group with guest speaker and discussion. 10:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Tuesday, April 7
Business Before Business, Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce, Princeton Marriott at Forrestal, 100 College Road East, Princeton, 609-924-1776. www. princetonmercerchamber.org. Morning networking event with coffee, breakfast, and
PRE VIEW
DAY-BY-DAY EVENTS, MARCH 25 TO APRIL 1
Event listings: E-mail
events@princetoninfo.com
While many venues have returned to hosting in-person events, others are still taking place online. Event descriptions specify if an event is being held virtually or in a hybrid format. To include your virtual or in-person event in this section email events@princetoninfo.com.
Wellness
Wild Gentle Yoga: Yoga to Connect with Yourself and Nature, Bowman’s Hill Wildflower preserve, 1635 River Road, New Hope, PA. www.bhwp.org. Gentle yoga that builds body awareness, strength, flexibility and a better understanding of how humans connect to and reflect natural systems with Priscilla Hayes. Register. Pay what you can, $8 and up. 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.
Socials
Jersey Art Meetup, Arts Council of princeton, 102 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www.artscouncilofprinceton.org. Princeton Comic Makers presents: JERSEY ART MEETUPS (JAM), a weekly social event connecting creatives within the greater Central Jersey area through a shared passion for sequential art and new media. Attendees may use this open workshop space to draw, write, and develop their own artwork, with an opportunity to receive peer review and feedback from other members if desired. Illustrators, animators, writers, and generalists are all welcome to join and discuss their art and career goals, share learning resources, promote current projects, or find friends and collaborators. Must be 16+ to attend. Free. 7 to 9 p.m.
On Stage
Jelly’s last Jam Bristol riverside Theater, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. www.brtstage.org. Tony Awardwinning musical takes you on a thrilling journey through the life, music, and complex legacy of the self-proclaimed inventor of jazz, Jelly Roll Morton. 7:30 p.m.
What Became of Us, George Street playhouse, Arthur Laurents Theater, 11 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. www.georgestreetplayhouse.org. An intimate story of siblings whose lives take drastically different paths. Their common origin keeps them bound together; How they experience it drives them apart. A lifetime, told from two sides, will determine whether they find their way back to one another. $35 and up. 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday April 1
passover begins at sunset.
Dancing
Contra Dance princeton Country Dancers, Suzanne Patterson Center, 1 Monument Drive, Princeton. www.princetoncountrydancers.org. Ridge Kennedy with Blue Jersey. $15. 7:30 to 10 p.m.
On Stage
What Became of Us, George Street playhouse, Arthur Laurents Theater, 11 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. www.georgestreetplayhouse.org. An intimate story of siblings whose lives take drastically different paths. Their common origin keeps them bound together; How they experience it drives them apart. A lifetime, told from two sides, will determine whether they find their way back to one another. $35 and up. 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Art
Andy Franz: legacy Exhibition Anne reid ‘72 Gallery, Princeton Day School, 650 Great Road, Princeton. www.pds.org. Opening reception for exhibition honoring the late artist Andy Franz (19362024), PDS teacher and advisor of 29 years. On view through April 30. 5 to 7 p.m.
Lectures
ArT OF Sugar: Science, Sculpture & Social Change Arts Council of princeton, 102 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www. artscouncilofprinceton.org. Partlecture, part-live demonstration with edible artist Linda Khachadurian, who introduces participants to the basics of isomalt, a sugar derived from sugar beets, and explains why this glossy, durable material has become her medium of choice for sculptural work. Reg-
ister. $25. 5:30 to 7 p.m.
ArT OF Sugar: Science, Sculpture & Social Change Arts Council of princeton, 102 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www. artscouncilofprinceton.org. Partlecture, part-live demonstration with edible artist Linda Khachadurian, who introduces participants to the basics of isomalt, a sugar derived from sugar beets, and explains why this glossy, durable material has become her medium of choice for sculptural work. Register. $25. 5:30 to 7 p.m.
On Stage
Jelly’s last Jam, Bristol riverside Theater, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. www.brtstage.org. Tony Awardwinning musical takes you on a thrilling journey through the life, music, and complex legacy of the self-proclaimed inventor of jazz, Jelly Roll Morton. 7:30 p.m.
Thursday April 2
On Stage
What Became of Us George Street playhouse, Arthur Laurents Theater, 11 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. www.georgestreetplayhouse.org. An intimate story of siblings whose lives take drastically different paths. Their common origin keeps them bound together; How they experience it drives them apart. A lifetime, told from two sides, will determine whether they find their way back to one another. $35 and up. 2 p.m.
Mame Music Mountain Theater
1483 State Route 179, Lambertville. www.musicmountaintheatre. org. When the ebullient and convivial socialite Mame Dennis suddenly becomes responsible for the upbringing of her nephew, Patrick, the wealthy sophisticate embraces the challenge, introducing the boy to all of life’s wonders. $36 to $38. 7:30 p.m.
Jelly’s last Jam Bristol riverside Theater, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. www.brtstage.org. Tony Awardwinning musical takes you on a thrilling journey through the life, music, and complex legacy of the self-proclaimed inventor of jazz, Jelly Roll Morton. 8 p.m.
it’s Never Too late, Kelsey Theatre, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor. kelsey.mccc.edu. World premiere musical that weaves together the stories of individuals who discover that it’s never too late to pursue their dreams. $26. 8 p.m.
Dancing
Friday Night Folk Dance, princeton Folk Dance, Suzanne Patterson Center, 45 Stockton Street, Princeton. www.princetonfolkdance.org. Lesson followed by open dancing. No partner necessary. $10. 8 p.m.
Friday April 3
Good Friday Outdoor Action
princeton Canal Walkers, Turning Basin park, Alexander Road, Princeton. 3 mile walk on the towpath, weather permitting. Free. Register to canalwalkers@goog-
legroups.com for notices of weather-related cancellations. 10 a.m.
Family Theater
Cinderella Music Mountain Theater, 1483 State Route 179, Lambertville. www.musicmountaintheatre.org. reimagining of Cinderella features magical mice, a pumpkin-turned-carriage, and whimsyfilled waltz-worthy numbers. $13. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
History
Trailblazing Women of New Brunswick, New Brunswick public library, 60 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. tinyurl. com/WomenOfNB. Principal librarian Jacquelyn Oshman explores the history of women who have shaped New Brunswick and the many “firsts” made from the suffragette movement to modern day. Light refreshments served. Register. 11 a.m.
Live Music
Weekend Music Series Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton, 609-924-2310. www. terhuneorchards.com. Live music from 1 to 4 p.m. by Barbara Lin Band. Fire pits, cafe favorites, hot mulled wine, and wine by the glass available. Hot cocoa and s’mores kits for kids. Part of Bunny Trail weekend festivities. Noon to 5 p.m.
On Stage
Jelly’s last Jam, Bristol riverside Theater, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. www.brtstage.org. Tony Awardwinning musical takes you on a thrilling journey through the life, music, and complex legacy of the self-proclaimed inventor of jazz, Jelly Roll Morton. 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
What Became of Us George Street playhouse, Arthur Laurents Theater, 11 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. www.georgestreetplayhouse.org. An intimate story of siblings whose lives take drastically different paths. Their common origin keeps them bound together; How they experience it drives them apart. A lifetime, told from two sides, will determine whether they find their way back to one another. $35 and up. 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
it’s Never Too late Kelsey Theatre, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor. kelsey.mccc.edu. World premiere musical that weaves together the stories of individuals who discover that it’s never too late to pursue their dreams. $26. 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Mame Music Mountain Theater 1483 State Route 179, Lambertville. www.musicmountaintheatre. org. When the ebullient and convivial socialite Mame Dennis suddenly becomes responsible for the upbringing of her nephew, Patrick, the wealthy sophisticate embraces the challenge, introducing the boy to all of life’s wonders. $36 to $38. 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
April 4
Live Music
Weekend Music Series, Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton, 609-924-2310. www. terhuneorchards.com. Live music from 1 to 4 p.m. by Four the Record. Fire pits, cafe favorites, hot mulled wine, and wine by the glass available. Hot cocoa and s’mores kits for kids. Part of Bunny Trail weekend festivities. Noon to 5 p.m.
On Stage
What Became of Us, George Street playhouse, Arthur Laurents Theater, 11 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. www.georgestreetplayhouse.org. An intimate story of siblings whose lives take drastically different paths. Their common origin keeps them bound together; How they experience it drives them apart. A lifetime, told from two sides, will determine whether they find their way back to one another. $35 and up. 2 p.m.
Jelly’s last Jam, Bristol riverside Theater, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. www.brtstage.org. Tony Awardwinning musical takes you on a thrilling journey through the life, music, and complex legacy of the self-proclaimed inventor of jazz, Jelly Roll Morton. 3 p.m. Mame, Music Mountain Theater, 1483 State Route 179, Lambertville. www.musicmountaintheatre. org. When the ebullient and convivial socialite Mame Dennis suddenly becomes responsible for the upbringing of her nephew, Patrick, the wealthy sophisticate embraces the challenge, introducing the boy to all of life’s wonders. $36 to $38. 3 p.m. Sunday April 5
Andy Franz: Legacy Exhibition Honors ‘Legendary’ Teacher
The Anne Reid Gallery at Princeton Day School presents Andy Franz: Legacy Exhibition, opening on Thursday, April 2 with a public reception from 5-7 p.m.
The exhibition honors the late Andy Franz (1936-2024), PDS teacher and adviser of 29 years, and parent of Susan Murphy and Robert A. Franz, both graduates of PDS.
The exhibition, on display from April 2 through April 30, brings together handcrafted furniture and woodwork by Franz, his students at PDS, and the Nakashima Studio, where he worked as a master craftsman for over a decade.
Franz has been described as a towering figure at Princeton Day School and a true legend among its many impactful educators, Andy Franz’s influence on the school and its students is both deep and enduring.
Franz was born in Palanka, Yugoslavia (then part of Austria-Hun-
tendees may use this open workshop space to draw, write, and develop their own artwork, with an opportunity to receive peer review and feedback from other members if desired. Illustrators, animators, writers, and generalists are all welcome to join and discuss their art and career goals, share learning resources, promote current projects, or find friends and collaborators. Must be 16+ to attend. Free. 7 to 9 p.m.
Lectures
Native plant Nursery Opening lecture: How Flowers Made Our World Bowman’s Hill Wildflower preserve, 1635 River Road, New Hope, Pennsylvania. www.bhwp.org. Join David Haskell in an exploration of the many ways that flowers build, sustain, and animate the living world, human life included. Via Zoom. Register. $15. 7 p.m.
Classical Music
Dancing
Tuesday Night Folk Dance, princeton Folk Dance, Christ Congregation, 50 Walnut Lane, Princeton. www.princetonfolkdance.org. No partner necessary. $5. 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Tuesday April 7
Kids Stuff
read and Explore: Composting, Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road, Lawrence, 609-924-2310. www.terhuneorchards.com. Read stories about worms and compost then make a compost container to take home. For ages 3 and up. Register. $12. 10 a.m.
On Stage
Jelly’s last Jam Bristol riverside Theater, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. www.brtstage.org. Tony Awardwinning musical takes you on a thrilling journey through the life, music, and complex legacy of the self-proclaimed inventor of jazz, Jelly Roll Morton. 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Socials
Jersey Art Meetup Arts Council of princeton, 102 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www.artscouncilofprinceton.org. Princeton Comic Makers presents: JERSEY ART MEETUPS (JAM), a weekly social event connecting creatives within the greater Central Jersey area through a shared passion for sequential art and new media. At-
gary). At a young age, he was forced into a concentration camp, where most of his family members perished.
Franz and his mother were able to escape slavery in 1947, with the help of his father, crossing into Hungary. At the age of 15, Franz apprenticed as a cabinetmaker to help support his parents while attending school.
In 1956, he immigrated to Ellis Island, assisted by a sponsor in Trenton, to begin his new life in America.
Franz worked for the acclaimed furniture designer George Nakashima for over a decade before transitioning to a teaching position at PDS, where he remained until his retirement in 1998. The school’s senior award for excellence in woodworking bears his name, as does the Princeton Day School woodshop. Until his death, Franz attended the award ceremonies each year, personally shaking the hand of every student recognized.
On view in the gallery, alongside photographs and furniture loaned from the Franz family and the Nakashima studio, are dozens of tributes from Franz’s former students.
The exhibition was co-curated
work of art during the 19th century. New printing technologies helped to produce copiously ornamented facsimile editions illustrated with portraits, autographs, and patriotic emblems. In this talk drawing from his new book, graphic arts historian John Bidwell illustrates the widespread influence of Declaration prints and broadsides on American popular culture. Hybrid event. Register. $20 in person; $10 virtual. 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Socials
Bingo, Congregation Beth Chaim, 329 Village Road East, West Windsor. Cash only, ages 18+. $5 entry includes one book (6 games); additional games available for $2. Cash prizes, food, and fun. 7 to 10 p.m.
On Stage
Jelly’s last Jam, Bristol river-
Andy Franz (1936-2024), a long-time teacher at Princeton Day School and a woodworker, is the focus of an exhibition at the school. Opening reception is Thursday, April 2 from 5 to 7 p.m.
by PDS arts daculty member in furniture design, Christopher Maher, and arts faculty member in painting and drawing and director of Anne Reid Gallery Gwen Shockey.
side Theater, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. www.brtstage.org. Tony Awardwinning musical takes you on a thrilling journey through the life, music, and complex legacy of the self-proclaimed inventor of jazz, Jelly Roll Morton. 7:30 p.m.
Thursday April 9
Farm Markets
princeton Farmers Market, princeton public library, Hinds Plaza, 55 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, 609-924-9529. www. princetonfarmersmarket.com. Vendors including local organic produce, pasture raised meat and eggs, farmstead cheeses, fresh baked goods, empanadas, all-
natural dog and cat treats, homemade jam, old-world style pickles, fresh flowers, handcrafted jewelry, knife sharpening, and more. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
b ne String Quartet, princeton University Concerts, Richardson Auditorium, Princeton University. concerts.princeton.edu. Program includes Mozart, String Quartet No. 15 in D Minor, K. 421; Ravel, String Quartet; and Brahms, String Quartet No. 2 in A Minor, Op. 51, No. 2. $33 to $54. 7:30 p.m.
Pop Music
Sound Studio Series, State Theater New Jersey, 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. www. stnj.org. Series of intimate, 80-seat performances held in theater’s Sound Studio. With soulful vocals and fearless storytelling, Patrice Pike, the magnetic former frontwoman of Austin s acclaimed Sister Seven, brings hope, fire, and raw humanity to the stage, tackling hard truths while lifting audiences with resilience and joy. $20 to $30. 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday April 8
Dancing
Contra Dance, princeton Country Dancers, Suzanne Patterson Center, 1 Monument Drive, Princeton. www.princetoncountrydancers.org. Bob Isaacs with Janet, Robert, Mark & Lee. $15. 7:30 to 10 p.m.
History
The Declaration in Script and print, Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton. www.morven.org. The Declaration of Independence became a
Shockey is also director of the Anne Reid Gallery. The exhibition is also on view in partnership with director of alumni engagement and strategy Amy Gallo.
MANY
PRE VIEW
Dr. Auntie Mixes Flavor, Fundraising, and Community Ties
One of Ewing Township’s most colorful new businesses in recent years is Dr. Auntie’s Gourmet Popcorn — an independent snack shop that opened in 2024.
Dr. Auntie’s Gourmet Popcorn specializes in freshly made popcorn with a variety of flavorful twists. Treats on offer may include fairly standard varieties such as kettle corn, caramel, butter, and cheese.
But those with more adventurous palates might opt for flavors such as cookies and cream, Buffalo wing, blue raspberry, sriracha lime or peanut butter cup.
Dr. Auntie is Cynthia Fulford, 55, who made the decision to start up her own business after a career in academia. She spent 30 years working as a student development officer on college campuses, including The College Of New Jersey before embarking on life as an entrepreneur.
Fulford, who lives in Ewing, is a graduate of Trenton Central High School. She has degrees from Washington and Jefferson College, Syracuse University, and Bowling Green University. She is also a licensed minister and lay leader at Change Church in Ewing.
The Downtowner interviewed Fulford about starting up a new business in Mercer County, the choices that she made while creating the business, how business is going, and where she hopes to go from here.
TD: Why did you decide to start a gourmet popcorn business?
Cynthia Fulford: What inspired me to start a gourmet popcorn business was my deep love for connecting people. To me, popcorn is more than just a snack — it’s comfort food that naturally brings people together.
As a student affairs professional, I often used popcorn as a way to draw students, faculty, and staff into shared spaces where they could build relationships and discover common ground. I realized I wanted to continue creating those meaningful connections beyond campus and within the broader community.
As I began researching, I discovered that popcorn consistently ranks as a top snack choice. Not only is it delicious, but it can also be a healthy option. The strong growth potential within the popcorn market confirmed that this idea was both personally fulfilling and financially viable.
Armed with this research and driven by my passion for serving both my church and my community, I felt that starting a gourmet popcorn business was a natural next step in my personal and professional journey.
Beyond building a business, I wanted to create something that could truly bless the community through fundraising and meaningful partnerships. This business allows me to combine purpose, connection, and opportunity in a way that is authentic to who I am.
TD: Tell us about the name Dr. Auntie.
CF: My family gave me the name “Dr. Auntie” after I earned my doctorate in higher education. It started as a playful term of endearment, a lighthearted way of teasing me about collecting titles— especially since I am also a licensed minister. What began as a joke quickly stuck and became something meaningful.
I chose to use Dr. Auntie as the brand for my business because it reflects both my credentials and my heart. It captures the feeling of being the trusted neighborhood auntie—someone who is knowledgeable, approachable, caring, and invested in the growth and
well-being of others.
TD: How did you select Ewing as a home for your business?
CF: Ewing is a strong, diverse, and family-oriented community. It is centrally located and easily accessible by major roads, making it convenient for residents and neighboring towns alike.
I wanted to establish my business in a place where local families, schools, churches, and community organizations could easily connect with and access our services. Ewing provides that ideal hub for outreach, engagement, and impact.
TD: How did you come up with recipes for your popcorn?
CF: We spend a lot of time experimenting in what we call our own version of a test kitchen. When we want to try a new flavor, we announce it to our customers and offer free tastings in exchange for their feedback.
Our customers have helped us refine our recipes by letting us know when a flavor is too salty, too sweet, too spicy—or not bold enough. Using their input, we adjust the recipes to find the perfect balance, ensuring every batch delivers just the right amount of flavor without overpowering the palate.
TD: How did you come up with the range of flavors that you offer?
CF: Staying true to my love for engagement and bringing people together, I wanted to create a variety of flavors that would appeal to people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. I initially purchased a gourmet popcorn recipe book, but I soon found myself adjusting many of the recipes and eventually creating original ones.
I carefully consider customer feedback and market trends, then get creative with the spices and flavor oils available to craft unique blends. While it’s important to offer classic favorites, gourmet popcorn should deliver an elevated flavor experience.
I believe in offering something for everyone — sweet, savory, spicy, and seasonal — going beyond the basics to provide memorable and exciting options for our customers.
TD: Do the flavors stay the same or change? Do you have special flavors?
CF: We keep our core favorites available year-round, but we regularly rotate special and seasonal flavors. Around holidays, sporting events, and community celebrations, we introduce limited-edition options to keep things fresh and exciting. This gives our customers — especially our foodies who love trying new flavors — a reason to come back often.
As a small, local business, we also have the flexibility to create custom flavors for special orders. While we’re capable of making over 100 different flavors, we simply can’t offer that many on the menu at one time. Rotating selections allows us to maintain quality while still providing variety and creativity.
TD: How is the popcorn made?
CF: Our popcorn is made fresh in-store using wholesome, highquality ingredients. From carefully selected oil and spices to real sugar and chocolate wafers, we’re committed to creating a preservativefree experience whenever possible.
We pop our corn in small batches to ensure maximum freshness, quality, and flavor. Our popping schedule is based on customer demand, but with special fundraising orders, we can pop up to 100 gallons of popcorn in just one hour.
by Joe Emanski
After popping, we carefully sift out excess kernels and husks and do our best to remove unpopped kernels to help prevent any unexpected tooth-cracking surprises. We believe you deserve a light, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a consistently flavorful experience in every bite.
TD: Tell us about a day in the life of Dr. Auntie’s Gourmet Popcorn.
CF: Every day for me begins with prayer and gratitude. I also care for my special needs adult cousin, making sure he has breakfast, meals for the day, and everything he needs to start his morning.
As the founder of Dr. Auntie’s Gourmet Popcorn, my days are a blend of creativity, strategy, and hands-on work. I track sales trends, update our store board and website, and create social media content to showcase our newest flavors, gift boxes, and fundraising opportunities.
A major focus is building partnerships with schools, nonprofits, colleges, and corporations — helping them raise funds while sharing the joy of popcorn with their communities.
I coordinate orders, manage inventory, and oversee production, making fresh batches daily. Much of my day is hands-on: popping popcorn, preparing orders, cleaning machines, and keeping the store welcoming. Customer service is always the priority.
Running a growing business while balancing personal responsibilities isn’t easy, but the rewards are tangible. Seeing customers smile when they taste something they love reminds me why I started this journey. Every batch, every order, and every connection fuels my passion to grow Dr. Auntie’s Gourmet Popcorn into a statewide and nation business.
TD: Do you offer fundraising programs as part of the business plan?
CF: Fundraising is a core part of our mission. We offer several ways for organizations to raise funds for their programs.
We have a traditional program. Organizations sell our popcorn, we fill the orders, and they handle delivery. We also offer shipping options upon request.
We also do concession stand sales, where we provide popcorn wholesale at a discount to help schools and groups fund their initiatives. We also do event and PTA vending; we set up popcorn sales at meetings or events and give a portion of the proceeds back to the organization.
Finally, we will work with customers on custom fundraising ideas. We are open to creative ways to help organizations raise money.
We are committed to supporting our neighborhood, community, and the organizations that support us. Schools, churches, and nonprofits can earn 50 percent or more profit on sales. Last year alone, we helped local organizations raise nearly $10,000 — most of it without shipping costs cutting into profits.
Supporting youth programs and community initiatives is a priority for us, and we take pride in helping organizations reach their fundraising goals while sharing the joy of gourmet popcorn.
TD: What are some things you hear from customers?
CF: Common reactions include: “This is the best popcorn I’ve ever had,” “I love that it’s fresh,” and “You don’t have a lot of kernels at the bottom!” Many are delighted to discover flavors they didn’t even know existed.
Equally heartwarming is how much customers value supporting a local small business. For us, it’s not just about popcorn — it’s about creating a connection with the community.
Hearing someone say they appreciate what we do is one of the most rewarding parts of running Dr. Auntie’s Gourmet Popcorn.
TD: How is the shop doing after a couple years in business?
CF: Like many small businesses in today’s economy, we face challenging times and work hard each month to stay open. Despite this, we remain committed to quality, excellent service, and making a meaningful impact in our community.
As a small business, we rely on word-of-mouth, social media shares, and reviews to reach new customers. We also welcome partnerships with corporations, wineries, and specialty shops, offering wholesale pricing to expand our reach. Volunteers and fresh ideas are always appreciated to help us better serve the community.
Although we are still growing as a business and I as a business owner, we are dedicated to staying local and making a difference. As the only popcorn shop in the area, we provide catering for weddings, reunions, corporate events, and birthday parties.
Our ultimate goal is to take our popcorn even further — with a food truck bringing our flavors to festivals, farmers markets, and
events across New Jersey.
TD: What else might be on the horizon?
CF: We are exploring expanded fundraising partnerships, corporate gifting, subscription programs, farmers markets, and increased community collaborations. Long term, I hope to see Dr. Auntie’s become a recognized regional brand known for quality, integrity, and unforgettable flavor.
We would love to create more local employment opportunities and collaborate with nonprofits to serve as a training site for job seekers. Additionally, we plan to expand our reach with a presence in areas like Quakerbridge, Mercer Mall, or Nassau Boulevard, so we can bring our popcorn to even more people.
Beyond business growth, I’m passionate about sharing the joys and challenges of small business ownership through speaking engagements and advocating for policies that help small businesses thrive.
By engaging with the community and policymakers, I hope to make it easier for local businesses like ours to serve customers, create jobs, and strengthen neighborhoods.
Dr. Auntie’s Gourmet Popcorn, 1400 Parkway Ave., Ewing. Web: draunties.com. Hours: Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Wednesdays and Thursdays 3 to 7 p.m.
Top: Cynthia Fulford, AKA Dr. Auntie, with a tray of peanut butter cup at Dr. Auntie’s Gourmet Popcorn in Ewing Township. Bottom: Bags of popcorn on display at Dr. Auntie’s.
life in the Fast lane
By Bill Sanservino
U.S. 1 ClassifieDs
HOW TO OrDEr
Booking a classified ad has never been easier! Simply scan the QR code or visit communitynews.org/place_an_ ad. Ads start at just $9.99 per week for up to 40 words. Questions? Call 609396-1511 ext. 132.
BUSiNESS SErViCES
professional Ghostwriter: Press releases that grab editors’ attention and robust website content that rises above the run of the mill. Have your business history written to preserve the story behind your success. E. E. Whiting Literary Services. 609-462-5734 eewhiting@live.com.
legal services: Wills, power of attorney, real estate, federal and New Jersey taxes, education law. House calls available. Bruce Cooke, Esq. 609-799-4674, 609-721-4358.
pErSONAl SErViCES
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TrANSpOrTATiON
A personal driver seeking to transport commuters, shopping trips, etc. Modern, attractive car. References provided. Less than commercial taxi services. Email gvprinter@gmail.com or call 609-331-3370.
MUSiCAl iNSTrUMENTS
i buy guitars and all musical instruments in any condition. Call Rob at 609577-3337.
Cash paid for World War ii military items. Helmets, swords, medals, etc. Call 609-658-2996. Email lenny1944x@ gmail.com.
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Retired police officer available for security and home maintenance. Power washing, indoor/outdoor painting, lawn and garden, siding, new construction, replacing doors and windows, locks, house sitting, personal security, and driving. Call 609-937-9456 or email dra203@aol.com.
SPACE FOR LEASE
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