Town Topics Newspaper, April 30, 2025

Page 1


Actor Peter Bisgaier Takes Multiple Roles in McCarter’s Final Play of the Season, “Primary Trust” 5

Westminster Conservatory Showcase Concert Focuses On Local Talent 9

Guggenheim Fellowships

Go to Several With Princeton Ties 10

Ending Poetry Month With Three TV Series

Antiheroes 15

Senior Bath Helps

Key Superb Defensive

Performance As PU Men’s

Lax Tops Yale in Tune-up for Ivy Tourney 24

PHS Boys’ Tennis Takes 2nd in CVC Tournament, Falling Just Short of Toppling Powerhouse

WW/P-South 27

Board of Ed. Agenda: New Business Chief, JP Principal Resigns

Two major personnel changes for Princeton Public Schools (PPS) were on the Board of Education (BOE) agenda for last night’s April 29 meeting, which took place after Town Topics’ press time.

The BOE was expected to approve the appointment of J. Andrew Harris as business administrator/board secretary and to accept the resignation of Johnson Park (JP) Principal Christopher Sheridan, effective June 30.

Harris, who is currently business administrator/board secretary for the South Hunterdon Regional School District (SHRSD), will take over from Matt Bouldin, who is resigning effective June 30 to become the new business administrator at Ramapo Indian Hills Regional High School District.

“Andrew brings valuable experience as both a business administrator and a teacher, making him an excellent fit for our district,” said PPS Board President Dafna Kendal. “His background in budget management and financial operations is complemented by his experience working with students in the classroom.”

She continued, “This unique perspective will ensure that his decisions are always student-centered, balancing fiscal responsibility with a commitment to supporting teaching and learning. We are excited to welcome Andrew to the Princeton Public Schools.”

Harris, who received a masters degree in educational leadership from Rider University and a B.S. in mathematics from Muhlenberg College, will earn a salary of $190,000, according to the BOE website. The appointment is subject to the approval of the Mercer County Executive Superintendent of Schools.

Before taking his current post as business administrator at SHRSD, Harris served as supervisor of STEM and district projects and as supervisor of mathematics at South Hunterdon. Before that he worked for five years as instructional mathematics coach in the Ewing Township School District.

Also noted on the PPS BOE agenda for last night was Sheridan’s resignation as JP principal. He was appointed to the post just one year ago, when he took over from Angela Siso Stentz, who became PPS assistant superintendent for human resources, a job she continues to hold.

Day of Action Planned For This Sunday

A May Day National Day of Action rally, sponsored by the Coalition for Peace Action (CFPA), Indivisible Cranbury, and the Princeton Community Democratic Organization, will take place at Hinds Plaza on Sunday, May 4 from 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Held in conjunction with more than 800 gatherings throughout the country from May 1 to 4, the rally, in protesting policies and actions of the Trump Administration, will demand that government prioritize families over billionaires.

At the same location in Hinds Plaza next to the Princeton Public Library as a “Hands Off!” rally on April 5 that drew more than 1,000 demonstrators, the May 4 event will feature a number of speakers, including CFPA Executive Director the Rev. Robert Moore, Indivisible Cranbury founder and leader Laura Zurfluh, Communication Workers of America District 1 Political and Field Director Anna-Marta Visky, New Jersey Education Association Vice-President Steven Beatty, and Make the Road New Jersey Executive Director Nedia Morsey.

“The April 5 Hands Off rallies were a huge success, and demonstrated that Americans across the country are horrified with the lawless, unconstitutional, dangerous behavior of Trump and

Elon Musk,” said Moore. “We are proud that our actions have already led Musk to curtail his work in DC to two days a week, and we are continuing our organizing so that goes down to zero.”

Zurfluh emphasized that although May Day is traditionally International Workers’ Day, celebrating all workers, “Mayday” is also a distress call or signal used by aviators and mariners in dire circumstances. Distress calls of “mayday” are necessary in our country’s current situation, Zurfluh noted.

“Just like a pilot or the captain of a ship that’s going down, this ship is going down and we need all hands on deck right now,” she said. “It’s a distress call because our democracy is at dire risk of dying.”

She continued, “Another part of this event is ensuring that everyone knows we’re in dire distress and that they’re all needed at this time. Every day we’re a day closer to no return. We’re a day closer to fascism. We’re watching our democracy sinking.”

Princeton University Junior Found Following Search Of Lake Carnegie and Surrounding Area

The body of missing Princeton University student Lauren Blackburn was found last Friday at Lake Carnegie following a multi-day search. Blackburn, 23, had battled bipolar disorder, according to an obituary on matherhodge.com, the website of the Mather-Hodge Funeral Home.

A member of the class of 2026, Blackburn was reported missing on Tuesday, April 22 by the University’s Department of Public Safety. He had last been seen on Saturday, April 19 near Firestone Library. A search of Lake Carnegie began around 12 a.m. Tuesday morning after a missing

person’s phone — presumed to be Blackburn’s — was heard pinging near the lake.

A resident of Corydon, Indiana, Blackburn was a National Merit Scholar and a Gates Scholar at Corydon Central High School. He participated in cross-country, track, the National Honors Society, and Academic Bowl, according to his obituary. At Princeton, he first studied math before settling on English with a minor in creative writing. He was a former features writer for The Daily Princetonian.

“Lauren loved learning and reading,”

BRICK BY BRICK: Teams of all ages took up a Lego challenge at the Historical Society of Princeton’s annual “Building Princeton” event this past Sunday. Many iconic town structures were recreated, including the historic Joseph Henry House, located on the University campus. Participants share more about their builds in this week’s Town Talk on Page 6.
(Photo by Sarah Teo)

W

I N D A N D

S P I R I T : M U S I C

F O R O R G A N ,

F L U T E , A N D

V O I C E

Featuring the Volanti Flute Quartet and Mina Choi, Organist

T u e s d a y , M a y 1 3 | 7 p m

P r i n c e t o n S e m i n a r y C a m p u s

First half of program Gambrell Room, Scheide Hall Second half of program Seminary Chapel

The Joe R. Engle Organ Concert will feature two organs built by Paul Fritts.

Volanti Flute Quartet members Jill Crawford, Ellen FisherDeerberg, John Lane, and Katherine McClure, will collaborate with organist, Mina Choi, in sharing a wide range of music arranged for flutes and organ

The audience will be invited to sing with these instruments, reflecting on the Spirit's gifts of wind and song

This concert is made possible by the Joe R. Engle Organ Concert endowment and is free of charge and open to the public.

11:30AM IN THE MAIN DINING ROOM

TOWN TOPICS

Princeton’s Weekly Community Newspaper Since 1946

DONALD C. STUART, 1946-1981 DAN D. COYLE, 1946-1973 Founding Editors/Publishers DONALD C. STUART III, Editor/Publisher, 1981-2001

LAURIE PELLIChERO Editor BILL ALDEN, Sports Editor

20 Palmer Square East (609) 924-7855

Founder of Food Project Receives Spirit Award

Greater Somerset County YMCA has honored Asha Gurunathan, founder of the Princeton Kindness Food Project, for her leadership in establishing and running the food distribution project at the Princeton YMCA.

Each Tuesday, Gurunathan and a team of volunteers distribute prepared food and produce donated by a number of local organizations including the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK), Terhune Orchards, Rolling Harvest Food Rescue, Princeton Alliance Church, Princeton Bhakti Vendanta Institute, and Central Jersey Sikh Association.

“We are proud to offer food to anyone in need of a meal and are grateful to our food partners who share their bounty with us,“said Gurunathan. “We rely on these organizations since we operate with no external funding other than occasional contributions from our supporters.”

The Project supports a wide variety of community members, many of whom live close enough to walk or bike to the Princeton YMCA.

Participants range from young families with children to seniors. Everyone is welcome, with no questions asked.

The Spirit Awards were established to honor Greater

Somerset County YMCA volunteers who help enrich lives, advance the Y’s mission, and strengthen community. Twelve individuals or organizations were honored at this year’s ceremony.

Topics In Brief A Community Bulletin

Leighton Listens: Councilman Leighton Newlin holds one-on-one conversations about issues impacting Princeton from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. April 30 at Tipple and Rose, 210 Nassau Street; May 7 at the Ivy Inn, 248 Nassau Street; May 14 at Deliziosos Bakery and Kitchen, 205 Witherspoon Street; May 21 at Ficus Restaurant, 235 Nassau Street; and May 28 at Hinds Plaza.

Wheels Rodeo : On Saturday, May 3 at the Municipal Building lot, 400 Witherspoon Street. Meet local police officers, learn bike safety skills, take a bike safety course, get fitted for helmets. Food, music, and more. Free. Princetonnj.gov.

Bike Rodeo 2025 : Saturday, May 17 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Lawrence High School, 2525 Princeton Avenue. Kids can bring and ride their own tricycles and bikes through a free “course” set up by the Lawrence Police Department; safety tips, help with mechanical issues, free helmets, and emergency vehicles to explore. Sponsored by Sustainable Lawrence. Sustainablelawrence.org.

Drop Off Used Electronics : At Princeton MarketFair, place used and broken electronics in bins near Center Court through April 27. Visit marketfairshoppes.com for a list of what is accepted.

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

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

Scholarship Opportunity : The Dr. Esther Wollin Memorial Scholarship Fund is available to Jewish female, full-time students who will be or are already attending Rutgers University and raised by their Jewish mother in a single-parent household in the Princeton Mercer Bucks Community. Eligibility is based on financial need. Submission deadline is June 2. Visit jfcsonline.org or call Joyce at (609) 987-8100.

Election Board Workers Needed : The Mercer County Board of Elections is recruiting new workers, who must be registered Mercer County voters or students 1617 years old. Bilingual residents are especially needed. The pay is $300. Apply at mercercounty.org.

Summer Registration for Community Pool and More : To sign up for pool membership, camp offerings, and summer programs, visit register.communitypass. net/Princeton.

HONORED: Asha Gurunathan was recently lauded by the Greater Somerset County YMCA for her leadership of the Princeton Kindness Food Project. She is seen, second from left, next to Joanne Costanza, MaryBeth Parker, and Lois Hillmire.

UPLIFTING: “Primary Trust,” the final play of the season at McCarter Theatre, is about renewal and community. From left are DeShawn Harold Mitchell as Kenneth, and Peter Bisgaier, in one of the three different roles he takes.

One-Year Subscription: $20 Two-Year Subscription: $25

“Primary Trust” at McCarter Theatre Lets Peter Bisgaier Play Nice Guys

In Primary Trust, the Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Eboni Booth that closes out the season at McCarter Theatre May 8-25, actor Peter Bisgaier plays three different roles. To his delight, none of them are villains.

Subscription Information: 609.924.5400 ext. 30 or subscriptions@ witherspoonmediagroup.com princetonmagazine.com

“As a 50-year-old white

man, my place in the theater nowadays is often to play not very nice people,” said Bisgaier, whom local audiences may recognize from his work with Pegasus Theatre Company in West Windsor and, later, Bordentown; and Passage Theatre Company in Trenton. In Primary Trust , he plays a banker, a bookshop owner, and a third character he leaves for audiences to discover.

TOPICS Of the Town

Shop Princeton Magazine Online Store for all your Princeton gifts!

“I have a history of playing, in the best case, someone who is overwrought and

the lead role in some Troll

“My whole life, it’s the only thing I ever wanted to do,” he said. “My parents took me to see sticks , and expected that we’d leave when I got ant sy. But my mother said I sat still for two hours, and she had never seen that before. I never wanted to be a base ball player or an astronaut. Being on stage and perform ing is where I feel the most alive.”

Growing up, Bisgaier at tended a program called The Drama Spot in Audubon, and studied theater through high school. Since earning a degree from the Univer sity of Southern California,

“Primary Trust”

Continued from Preceding Page he has worked around the country as an actor, director, producer, and writer as well as a stage manager and technical director. More recently, he stuck closer to home as his children grew up.

Playing three different roles in Primary Trust might sound daunting, but Bisgaier relishes the opportunity.

“I love it. It’s really just about being specific in your physical choices, vocal patterns, and things like that,” he said. “I love to do shows where I’m changing and coming in and out. I definitely do not carry the emotional weight of this show. I’m there for them, and provide some levity.”

For the future, Bisgaier is hoping that Pegasus Theatre, which he co-founded in 2014 at the West Windsor Arts Council, will find a permanent home. The company moved to Bordentown in 2022, but lost their space. They continue to offer classes and camps, but are anxious to get back to producing plays.

“We lost the lease on the place we were using, which was unfortunate,” Bisgaier said. “At the moment, we are desperately looking. So if anyone has a space, let us know.”

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

Question of the Week:

“How did you decide on this building? What about it interests you?”

(Asked on Sunday at the Historical Society of Princeton’s “Building Princeton” Lego event) (Photos by Sarah Teo)

In the meantime, he is thrilled to be a part of Primary Trust. “In Cincinnati, I think people really needed to see a play about community and coming together and lifting each other up,” he said. “One of the things that’s beautiful in the play is when DeShawn, a young Black man, first walks out on stage. We make immediate judgements; then he begins to tell his story. I think the audience, in some ways, gather together to uplift him as well. And in the present climate of the world, and our country specifically, people really need it. Anyone I would see after the show was very moved.”

Visit Mccarter.org for tickets and specific dates and times.

Charlotte: “We probably decided it because our friend’s mom is the artistic director.”
Jane: “And we parents go to McCarter all the time!”
– Charlotte Carr-Mordkoff, Jane Carr and David Mordkoff, Princeton
“I liked it because of the windows! This is my second time building; last time we built T.S. Eliot’s house. That was easier!”
– Shreyaan Jain, Bridgewater
John: “This is Nassau Hall. We’ve lived in Princeton a long time - 20, 25 years. I built Lego with my daughter; now I’m building Legos at home, so we figured we’d give this a try.” – Nancy and John Morrow, Princeton
Henry: “Because it’s tricky!”
Meagan: “Last year we built The Garden Theatre. We’ve been to this event three times!”
– Meagan and Henry Levinson, Princeton

Day of Action

continued from page one

A press release from CFPA and other organizers urges supporters to “stand united” and protest against the defunding of schools, privatizing of public services, attacking unions, and targeting immigrant families with fear and intimidation.

“From fruit fields in California to classrooms in Chicago, from kitchens in Queens to loading docks in Atlanta, working families are rising up to join this call to protect our government from DOGE’s wrecking ball and ensure federal policy puts public schools over private profits, healthcare over hedge funds, housing over homelessness,” the press release states.

It goes on, “This is a war on working people. We will not stand down. On May Day 2025 we stand united. United for a world in which every family has housing, healthcare, fair wages, union protection, and safety — regardless of race, zip code, or immigration status.”

Moore saw the fact that so many coordinated events are taking place across the country as “a sign of hope in the pushback from citizens determined to fight for justice and against the cruelty of the many actions of Trump and Musk.”

He added, “We are determined to continue the momentum, and to increase the impact with our sustained organizing.”

Those wanting to attend Sunday’s rally are urged to register at www.mobilize.us/ indivisiblecranbury.

Famous Oyster Schooner

Returns to Mercer

From May 14 to 18 New Jersey’s Official Tall Ship, oyster schooner A.J. Meerwald, will be anchored at The Docks on the Delaware River next to Waterfront Park in Trenton. The ship is 115 feet long and 70 feet tall with two masts and three sails.

The ship’s visit was arranged by The Bayshore Center at Bivalve and the Mercer County Park Commission. On Wednesday, May 14 the ship will arrive between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. There will be a dockside reception held for invited guests and the public at 3 p.m. During her port visit to Trenton, the ship will host Education Sails classes for school and youth organizations, and Public Sails. Students can help raise the sails, explore hands-on education

stations, and experience sailing the Delaware River.

“The Schooner A.J. Meerwald is an excellent opportunity for Mercer County residents to see a historic oyster dredging schooner,” said Mercer County Executive Dan Benson. “This event is at the nexus of tourism and history and will provide fun for anyone who attends the reception.”

The A.J. Meerwald is a restored oyster dredging schooner from Bivalve. Launched in 1928, the ship embodies the true spirit of the schooner, adapted to efficiently fulfill the prevailing conditions and specific demands of her native waters. A.J. Meerwald was one of nearly 500 schooners built along the Delaware Bay before the decline of the local shipbuilding industry in the 1930s. The ship normally

resides at the Bayshore Center at Bivalve in Port Norris.

Education sails will be held on Thursday, May 15 and Friday May 16, departing around 9 a.m.and 1 p.m. for 45 passengers each. On the morning of Saturday May 17, free public dockside boat tours and activities with educational partners will be held from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Public Sails will be offered Friday and Saturday, May 16 and 17 at 5 p.m.; Sunday May 18 at 1 and 4 p.m. Tickets are $50 per person and guests are invited to bring their own snacks and beverages. These 2-hour evening sails will cruise along the scenic Delaware River, which is part of the national Wild & Scenic Rivers system.

Visit Bayshorecenter.org or call (856) 785-2060 for more information.

GINORI 1735
BACK ON THE DOCKS: New Jersey’s official tall ship, the A.J. Meerwald, is on the Delaware River in Trenton next to Waterfront Park May 14-18.

Westminster

Conservatory Showcase Concert

About the Variety of Local Musical Talent

The annual showcase presented by the Westminster Conservatory of Music this Sunday, May 4 at 3 p.m. allows students and ensembles from the Conservatory and Rider University the opportunity to perform at Richardson Auditorium — acclaimed for its acoustics and its architecture — on the Princeton University campus.

On the program are the Westminster Community Orchestra, the Rider University Chorale, the piano duo of Phyllis Alpert Lehrer and Ena Bronstein Barton, student singers from the Honors Music Program, and the young winners of the Westminster Conservatory Piano Competition.

While the event is held every year, this one feels especially significant to Ruth Ochs, who has conducted the Westminster Community Orchestra for the past two decades (Ochs also leads the Princeton University Sinfonia, which performs at Richardson on Friday, May 2).

“With the support of the Westminster Conservatory of Music, this concert has taken place annually for quite some time, and we use the Richardson Auditorium stage and our programming to feature a wide variety of ensembles and soloists from within the Westminster Conservatory family,” she said. “This year’s concert honors the significant legacy of the Westminster Conservatory, its teachers and many decades of students.”

The future of the Conservatory — which remained on the Princeton campus of Westminster Choir College after Rider University moved the college to its Lawrence Township campus in 2020 — is currently being decided. The Municipality of Princeton, which acquired the 23-acre Westminster campus from Rider early this month, has expressed a commitment to coming up with a way for the Conservatory to continue at the site after June 17, the end of the semester and the end of Rider’s involvement.

Reached by phone on Tuesday, Princeton Council President Mia Sacks confirmed that discussions involving arrangements for the Conservatory to

remain on site are actively underway.

While Ochs and the rest of the Conservatory community await news of its future, she is focusing on the upcoming concert.

The Westminster Community Orchestra, in its 39th season and made up of professional and amateur musicians from New Jersey and Pennsylvania, will perform a suite from Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess as well as music from The Empire Strikes Back by John Williams, in honor of May 4, which is Star Wars Day. Each soloist on the program will perform with the orchestra.

The Rider University Chorale, which is directed by Tom Shelton, plans to perform selections from their recent program, “The Wilderness of You.” The ensemble is open to current Rider students, faculty, staff, alumni, and members of the surrounding community. Shelton is an associate professor of Sacred Music at Rider, where he teaches conducting, sacred music, and music education.

The concert will also include the world premiere of Searching , a work by Conservatory faculty member Cecelia Reilly. A graduate of Westminster Choir College, Reilly has been teaching piano and music theory at the school since 2000.

Pianists Barton and Lehrer, frequent performers with the Westminster Community Orchestra and other groups, will play the first movement of Mozart’s Sonata for Piano Four-Hands in C Major.

Piano Competition winner Caelan Costello, who is 14 and studies with Hendry Wijaya, will perform the second movement from Grieg’s Piano Concerto in A minor. Ten-year-old winner Vito Cottone, who studies with Lehrer, will perform the first movement from Mozart’s Concerto No. 12 in A major, and fellow winner Joanne Hou, 16, will play the first movement from Rachmaninov’s Concerto No. 2 in C minor. She studies with Jessica Reyde-Castro.

Tickets are $20 ($15 for students and seniors). Visit tickets.princeton.edu, call (609) 258-9220, or purchase them at the door.

—Anne Levin

Ferry Market Reopening

With Special Event

Ferry Market, located at 32 S. Main Street in the heart of New Hope, is celebrating the revitalization of its community-driven space with a special reopening preview on Sunday, May 4, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event unveils a new Beer Garden and a refreshed look.

“We’re so proud of what Ferry Market has become, and we’re excited to share this next phase with the community,” said Ryan Fuller, Ferry Captain. “The Beer Garden is just the beginning — we’re committed to making Ferry Market a hub for locals and visitors alike.”

A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Beer Garden will take place at 12 p.m., marking a new chapter for the foodie destination, which opened on October 4, 2017. A pop-up vendor will be on site with beer available for purchase. This familyfriendly event features live music by Matt Sexter, face painting and a balloon artist, and a chance to explore the diverse vendors.

In addition to the Beer Garden, the Market interior has undergone a fresh paint update and rebranding effort, creating a more welcoming and modern aesthetic while still honoring its historic roots. Vendors include Alta’s Kitchen, Lima Fusion, Little Radish, Market Pizza, Sabor, Sciascia Confections, SkyRoast Coffee, Smell the Curry, Sushi Station, The Good Gyro, The Pork Shack, and Unionville Vineyards. Visit theferrymarket.com for more information.

The Franklin Food Bank provides food and resources to individuals and families facing food insecurity in Franklin Township and surrounding areas. The organization’s programs include food distribution, wraparound services, and advocacy efforts aimed at addressing the root causes of hunger.

The Tour de Franklin is traditionally held on the last Sunday in April. Visit FranklinFoodBank.org for more information.

Police Blotter

Tour de Franklin Raises Funds for Food Bank

The Franklin Food Bank’s 36th Annual Tour de Franklin, a community charity bike ride, took place on Sunday, April 27 at Franklin High School, raising over $105,000 to support the organization’s critical programs. The event welcomed over 400 riders, supported by more than 160 volunteers, with participants traveling from as far away as Chicago to support the cause.

The Tour de Franklin is a legacy event for the Franklin Food Bank, providing essential funding for its operations and programs, which serve residents of Franklin Township and surrounding communities. The funds raised are especially crucial this year, as the Franklin Food Bank faces increased demand and a decrease in food donations.

“The Tour de Franklin is more than just a bike ride; it’s a testament to the incredible spirit of our community,” said Allie O’Brien, Development Director of the Franklin Food Bank and Tour de Franklin Committee Chair. “The outpouring of support from riders, volunteers, and sponsors is truly inspiring. These funds are vital in allowing us to continue providing access to food and resources to our neighbors who are struggling. We are incredibly grateful to our volunteers, staff, board and supporters for this year’s success. The Tour de Franklin is critical to our fundraising efforts, particularly now, as we navigate a challenging landscape with increased need and reduced food donations. The funds raised directly impact our ability to serve our community.”

On April 21, at 11:27 p.m., an individual reported that she sent $1,500 via PayPal as a down payment for a vehicle advertised on Facebook Marketplace. The Patton Avenue resident later discovered that the advertisement was a scam, and has been unable to recover her money from the bank.

On April 20, at 6:52 p.m., patrols were dispatched to a park on Witherspoon Street following a 911 call reporting criminal mischief to a shed. Upon arrival, officers met with the caller and another witness, who reported seeing a group of males splattering black paint on the exterior of the shed. Further investigation revealed that the suspects had broken into the shed and stolen black acrylic paint, which they used to deface the exterior. The witnesses provided photographs they had taken of two of the suspects, and one was later found walking on Witherspoon Street, and identified as a 20-year-old Princeton resident. He was arrested and charged with burglary and criminal mischief, and theft. After processing, he was released and provided with a court date.

females, possibly in their early 20s, one wearing a blue denim jacket and brown pants, with a braided hairstyle; the other with a ponytail, a faded tattoo on her upper chest, dressed entirely in black. Together, they shoplifted approximately $452 worth of merchandise before fleeing the scene in an unknown vehicle. The investigation is ongoing.

Topics Ad — 04/30/25, 05/14/25, and 06/04/25 1/4-page color ad 5.125" wide X 8" high for $220

On April 16, at 5:29 P.M., patrol officers responded to a business on Hulfish street following report of a shoplifting incidence. The investigation at the scene revealed two

On April 15, at 1:13 a.m. subsequent to a motor vehicle stop on Princeton Kingston Road for careless driving, the driver and sole occupant, a 47-year-old male from Monmouth Junction, was found to be driving while intoxicated. He was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters, where he was processed and he provided breath samples for testing. He was issued summonses for driving while intoxicated, careless driving and reckless driving. He was released to a sober adult.

Unless noted, individuals arrested were later released.

REVITALIZED: Ferry Market in New Hope, Pa. celebrates its new look and new Beer Garden at a public ceremony on Sunday, May 4.

2025 Guggenheim Fellowship Winners

Include 16 Current and Past Princetonians

Four Princeton University faculty members, two University Arts Fellows at the Lewis Center, nine Princeton University alumni, and a former Princeton resident who graduated from Princeton High School (PHS) have all received 2025 Guggenheim Fellowships awarded to “exceptional individuals in pursuit of scholarship in the creative arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.”

Recognizing both “prior achievement” and “future promise,” The John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation has awarded the grants annually since 1925. There were 198 American and Canadian scholars selected this year.

Guggenheim winner Rachel Shteir, head of dramaturgy at DePaul University, author of four books, and recipient of numerous writing awards, grew up in Princeton and attended Princeton Public Schools (PPS) from Riverside through PHS.

“I’m thrilled and honored to be awarded the Guggenheim, which is a statement about my work’s impact at a moment at which the arts are challenged,” she wrote in an email. “I’m also grateful to the Guggenheim for providing me with the rare gift of time.”

Shteir, whose recent biography, Betty Friedan: Magnificent Disruptor, was a finalist for the National Critics Circle Awards Best Biography of 2023, has lectured widely on popular culture and theater, and is often quoted in the national

media. She noted that she had “many amazing and dedicated teachers during her time in the PPS, citing history teacher Jeff Lucker, English teacher Joan Goodman, “and many others who gave students space.”

Princeton University Mathematics Professor Maria Chudnovsky, whose research focuses on graph theory and combinatorics, won a Guggenheim in mathematics. She has a Ph.D. (2003) from Princeton and has been a professor at the University since 2015.

East Asian Studies and History Professor Thomas Conlan, whose research focuses on medieval Japanese history, received a Guggenheim in Asian studies. He has been on the Princeton faculty since 2013.

Rhodri Lewis, who came to Princeton in 2017 and is a senior research scholar and lecturer with the rank of professor in English, was awarded a Guggenheim in literary criticism. His scholarship focuses on the literary, cultural, and intellectual histories of the 16th and 17th centuries.

Carolyn Rouse, the Ritter Professor of Anthropology and a documentary filmmaker, received the Guggenheim in anthropology. She came to Princeton in 2000. Her scholarship focuses on development and education, medical anthropology, religion, race, resistance, social inequality, and visualizing complex ethnographic data.

The Arts Fellows Guggenheim recipients include yuniya edi kwon and Peter S. Shin, both in the field of

music composition.

Kwon is a composer, violinist, vocalist, and interdisciplinary artist. Shin, a composer whose music interweaves Korean and American themes and influences, is currently pursuing a yearlong composition project for the vocal ensemble Roomful of Teeth.

The Princeton University alumni recipients of 2025 Guggenheim Fellowships include Laura Beers, Class of 2000, for intellectual and cultural history; Katie Kitamura, Class of 1999, for fiction; Accra Shepp, Class of 1984, for photography; and Carla Williams, Class of 1986, for photography.

Princeton graduate school 2025 alumni winners include Angela Esterhammer, 1990 graduate alumna, for English literature; Kellen Funk, 2018 graduate alumnus, for law; Katherine Ludwig Jansen, 1995 graduate alumna, for medieval and early modern studies; Annette Yoshiko Reed, 2002 graduate alumna, for religion; and James Morton Turner, 2004 graduate alumnus, for the history of science, technology, and economics.

Since their inception 100 years ago, the Guggenheim Fellowships “have helped artists, writers, scholars, and scientists at the highest levels of achievement pursue the work they were meant to do,” states the Foundation website.

The Guggenheim Trust has supported more than 19,000 Fellows in more than 50 different fields.

—Donald Gilpin

Plants Used by Lenapes Are Focus of Lecture

Lenape healing traditions using plants commonly found in the Northeast as medicine and cooking are the topic of a talk being given Sunday, May 4 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. the Discovery Center at Point Breeze, 101 E. Park Street, Bordentown. Chief Bluejay of the Lenape Nation of Pennsylvania is the speaker. This program will cover the use and significance of specific plants in the Lenape culture as well as cultural stories surrounding plants. As examples, herbs such as black cohosh (sekkohosh) and elderberry (puhwesenakwim) can be processed using traditional Lenape techniques. The various leaves and stems are used as medicine for everything from kidney disorders to depression. Native American health focuses on the balance of a holistic physical and spiritual well-being. Disease is an imbalance, cured by the powers of nature and selfhealing.

Guest speaker, Chief Bluejay, aka Barbara Michalski, is a member of the Lenape Nation of Pennsylvania. She serves on the tribal council and as tribal secretary and focuses on educating the public in the Lenapehoking (Homeland of the Lenape). She has been involved in environmental causes, particularly clean water protection. Recently, she has seen a rising interest in medicinal plants.

A new video will be shown at the Discovery Center during open hours Saturday and Sunday, May 3 and 4 from 12 to 4 p.m. Filmed by D&R Greenway Fellow Daniel Kapner, the short video interviews Chief BlueJay, Uma Cinnamon and Eagleheart about how they received their Lenape names, and the meaning of the Delaware River, known as the Lenape Sipu, among other facts. The video will be shown in the Peoples Room. Other exhibit rooms that can be visited are the Crown Jewels Gallery, the Natural World Room and the Walk Through Time Room. Attendees are encouraged to bring their questions and take time to view the Discovery Center’s exhibits and

and antimicrobial

Lenape art. The admission cost of $15 per person supports the Discovery Center at Point Breeze. Reserve in advance for the Lenape Medicinal Plant and Crops Talk at www.drgreenway.org or call (609) 924-4646 as seating is limited to 30 attendees.

Lambertville Historical Society Offers Sunday Walking Tours

The Lambertville Historical Society (LHS) has reopened the James Wilson Marshall House Museum for the season. The house will be open Saturdays and Sundays between 1 and 4 p.m. through October, featuring new exhibits.

LHS also began offering walking tours of the central district on Sundays. The guided tours, which depart at 2 p.m. from the Marshall House at 60 Bridge Street, are approximately one hour long and will be offered through November. Admission is free; donations are welcome.

LHS has created new exhibits about James Marshall and Alice Narducci, a local historic preservation advocate. The exhibits, which are in English

and Spanish, were created by longtime LHS members Mary and Rich Freedman, who also curated, designed, and installed the new “Then and Now” exhibit on the second floor of the museum. Additionally, Rich Freedman designed and installed video player systems on both floors, which will show new video documentaries produced by Gary Cohen and Michael Menche, president of the LHS.

The Marshall House, which is on the National and New Jersey Registers of Historic Places, was the boyhood home of James Wilson Marshall, who discovered gold in California in 1848. The Federal style brick structure was built in 1816 by his father, Phillip Marshall, a cabinet, coach and wagon maker. He was a member of one of the oldest families in New Jersey and related by marriage to John Hart, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. The museum, now the headquarters of the LHS, first opened to the public in 1974. Visit lambervillehistoricalsociety.org for more information.

pumarket@princeton.edu 609-258-5144 Enjoy local,

April 2 through May 7 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Firestone Library/Chapel Plaza

Carlito’s Taco Wagon • Catalina Empanadas • Coffee Club

The Granola Bar • Little Star Foods • Jersey Artisan Judith’s Desserts • Nutty Novelties • Picklelicious Pies and Quiches • Sprouts Flowers • Roper’s Way Farm Terhune Orchards • Tico’s Eatery and Juice Bar • Woo Ri Market ...and more!

FOR VISITORS: The Marshall House in Lambertville has reopened for the season, boasting
HEALING TRADITIONS: Native Bloodroot, which has a variety of purported medicinal properties, including antiseptic, anti-inflammatory,
effects, is among the plants to be discussed at

Princeton University Junior continued from page one reads the obituary. “He was passionate about Virginia Woolf and Wuthering Heights. He enjoyed K-pop and cheering for the Celtics, Chiefs, and Hotspurs. Lauren served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the California Santa Rosa mission in 2020-2021. He received the 2024 Sam Hutton Fund for the Arts, and spent last summer in South Korea taking classes and learning more about his Korean roots. Lauren’s compassionate, thoughtful, and playful spirit will be greatly missed.”

According to The Daily Princetonian, Blackburn was a member of New College West. He was a recipient of the 2024 Sam Hutton Fund for the Arts.

As the search for Blackburn continued, the University offered support services to all students. Regan Crotty, Dean of Undergraduate Students, informed the University community via email on April 25 that Blackburn’s body had been found. Reached for further comment on Tuesday, the University’s Media Relations offices declined to provide any additional information. A visitation and memorial service will be held on Sunday, May 4 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Corydon, Indiana.

ENVIRONMENTALISTS: The Watershed

and the 20th anniversary of Executive

Watershed Institute Honors Director and Local Leaders

The Watershed Institute hosted its Annual Meeting of Supporters and Friends Monday evening, April 28 at its LEED-Platinum certified Watershed Center, located on its 950-acre nature reserve in Pennington. Guests gathered to celebrate the many ways the community engages with and advances its mission in conservation, advocacy, science, and education.

“For more than 75 years, The Watershed Institute has worked to protect and restore clean water and healthy ecosystems across central New Jersey,” said Executive Director Jim Waltman. “Our Annual Meeting is a wonderful opportunity to recognize and thank the staff, volunteers, partners, friends and supporters whose passion and dedication drive our shared success.”

This year, The Watershed Institute honored two leaders whose contributions have strengthened its work and inspired others. Senator Bob Smith, Chairman of the Environmental

Committee, received the Edmund W. Stiles Award for Environmental Leadership. Gabrielle Flora, a science educator at the Trenton Ninth Grade Academy, received the Richard Rotter Award for Excellence in Environmental Education.

In addition, The Watershed Institute celebrated the 20th anniversary of Waltman’s leadership. ”Since taking the helm two decades ago, Jim has expanded the organization’s reach and impact, led a transformative rebranding, and spearheaded the creation of the award-winning Watershed Center—a regional hub for innovation and sustainability,” reads a press release. “His vision has established The Watershed Institute as a statewide leader in environmental conservation and education, and his ongoing dedication continues to shape a healthier, more sustainable future for New Jersey.”

Talk at Trent House On Labor at Historic Sites

The Trent House Association will host a talk by Rutgers University Professor Andy Urban on the interpretation of labor and immigration at historic sites on Sunday, May 18 at 1 p.m. The free event is held at the Trent House Visitor Center, 5 Market Street, Trenton. This talk surveys the different methods and approaches that historic homes and sites have taken during the past two decades, to interpret and exhibit the lives of laborers and migrants. Urban will discuss the William Trent House’s ongoing research into wage laborers who worked for the house in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and how their stories – as immigrants, young women, and working people in Trenton - can be connected to their employment as coachmen, domestic servants, cooks, and gardeners.

Urban will conclude by discussing why public history initiatives that grapple with histories of labor and migration are so vital in the present, and what contemporary

audiences gain when these subjects are foregrounded at historic homes and sites, rather than relegated to the background.

Urban is a historian of migration, labor, consumerism, and empire. His book, Brokering Servitude: Migration and the Politics of Domestic Labor during the Long Nineteenth Century examines the cultural and political debates that surrounded domestic labor in the United States, and attempts to regulate markets for the hire of household servants. His exhibit, “Chinese Exclusion in New Jersey: Immigration Law in the Past and Present,” curated with Rutgers undergraduates in an immigration history course, uses original records from the

National Archives to examine how restrictive policies had an impact on Chinese communities in New Jersey.

Most recently, Urban worked with the Rutgers Libraries and the New Jersey Digital Highway to curate the digital exhibition: “Invisible Restraints: Life and Labor at Seabrook Farms,” which was completed as part of the States of Incarceration project organized by the Humanities Action Lab. He has written articles for the Journal of Asian American Studies, Journal of American Ethnic History, Journal of Policy History, Gender and History, and American Studies.

Pre-registration for the event is encouraged at tinyurl.com/TalkMay18.

Institute staff gathered to celebrate community leaders
Director Jim Waltman.

Board of Education

continued from page one

A resident of Robbinsville, Sheridan had come to Johnson Park from a position as assistant principal at Delran Intermediate School in Delran.

Sheridan did not respond to a request for comment, Kendal had no comment regarding the JP principal, and the district communications office noted only that Sheridan’s letter of resignation had been received.

Master Gardeners’ Market Offers Plants, Shrubs, and More

The Mercer Educational Gardens at 431A Federal City Road in Pennington is the setting for the annual Rutgers Master Gardeners of Mercer County Plant Expo and Garden Market on Saturday, May 3 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine.

Home grown perennials, trees and shrubs will be available from Chickadee Creek Farm, Steven Kristoph Nursery, Byrne Farm Market, and Shannon’s Nursery. Mercer County Horticulturist Justine Gray will be on hand to answer questions, and Rutgers Master Gardeners will assist with selecting the best plants for individual gardens. Horticultural presentations will be given on gardening tools and on siting, planting, and watering techniques.

Credit cards, cash, and checks are accepted. No dogs are allowed. Visit mgofmc.org.

Princeton Mercer Chamber Hosts Healthcare Symposium

The 2025 Regional Healthcare Symposium, hosted by the Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce, will take place on Wednesday, May 14 from 7:30-10 a.m. at Grounds for Sculpture, the host sponsor for the event.

This year’s event will focus on the results of the Community Health Needs Assessments (CHNA), conducted in 2024 to identify and address the most pressing health needs of the community. Representatives from Capital Health, Penn Medicine Princeton Health, and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton will be on hand at the event to present their findings and identify ways local businesses can partner to help the hospitals implement their Community Health Improvement Plans (CHIP).

The event will also feature opening remarks from top executives from the three hospitals. Attendees will hear from Lisa Breza, Chief Administrative Officer of Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, James Demetriades, CEO of Penn Medicine Princeton Health, and Al Maghazehe, President & CEO of Capital Health.

The executives’ remarks will be followed by a panel of hospital representatives who have been an integral part of the CHNAs: Jeremye Cohen, Vice President of Strategy & Business Development at Capital Health, Allison DeBlois, Social Impact Outreach Educator at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, and Debbie Millar, Director of Community Wellness & Engagement at Penn Medi -

cine Princeton Health. The event will be moderated by Christine Stearns, Chief Government Relations Officer at the New Jersey Hospital Association.

The event will also feature a variety of exhibitors. It is open to both Chamber members and non-members. Visit princetonmercerchamber.org for tickets.

When: Sunday, May 4, 2025 from 2-3:30pm with refreshments to follow

Where: Arts Council of Princeton 102 Witherspoon Street

Featuring:

Barbara Banks

Hattie Smith Black

John Broadway

Lois Craig

Barbara Flythe

Cecelia Hodges

Audrey Mack

James “Jimmy” Mack

Robert Rivers, MD

Dorothy Stevens

Charles Streater

Marilyn Yates

Johnetta Woods

BRING A WAGON: The Rutgers Master Gardeners of Mercer County has a variety of plants for sale at the Plant Expo and Garden Market on Saturday, May 3. A satisfied customer is show at last year’s event.
Arts Council of Princeton and Witherspoon-Jackson Historical and Cultural Society present

Mailbox

The views of the letters do not necessarily reflect the views of Town Topics.

Sharing Thanks for Success of Fourth Annual Princeton Porchfest

To the Editor:

This past Saturday, the Arts Council of Princeton proudly presented the fourth annual Princeton Porchfest. In a time in which we feel it’s needed most, Porchfest celebrated community, creativity, and togetherness, and we couldn’t have done it without our Porch hosts’ generosity and the performers’ outstanding skills.

To all the music enthusiasts: your energy and enthusiasm brought Porchfest to life. We can’t thank you enough for showing up and bringing the good vibes, even with cloudy skies.

We’re especially grateful to the Municipality of Princeton, Mayor Freda, Princeton Council, Princeton Police, Princeton University, porch hosts, musicians, our generous sponsors, and YOU. The Arts Council strives to create a space where locals and visitors alike feel welcomed and inspired through the arts. Today, we feel inspired by all of you.

Thank you for helping us turn up the volume on what community spirit really looks like. We can’t wait to do it all again next year!

For a full list of sponsors, please visit artscouncilofprinceton.org.

ADAM WELCH

Executive Director

MELISSA KUSCIN

Director of Programming and Events

FIONA CLARK

Marketing and PR Associate Arts Council of Princeton Witherspoon Street

Writing in Support of the Prominent Historians Defending Historic Princeton

To the Editor:

I read with keen interest the statement in the full-page advertisement entitled “Historians in Defense of Historic Princeton” in your April 23 issue. I encourage everyone to read the ad.

Expressing “deep concern about the preservation of historic Princeton,” six nationally prominent historians — Ken Burns, Harold Holzer, James M. McPherson, Jon Meacham, Sean Wilentz, and Brenda Wineapple — have singled out a massive luxury high-rise development project in the Mercer Hill neighborhood as “destructive and self-destructive.”

The development sits partially within the Mercer Hill Historic District, adjacent to the Barracks at 32 Edgehill Street — the oldest structure in Princeton, dating to 1684 — and close to two National Historic Landmarks, Morven, and Einstein’s house.

It is adjacent to Edgehill Street, one of Princeton’s oldest streets with residences that date to the 1830s. But all the structures in the area will be degraded by the towering luxury blocks being proposed. Take note: the project calls for a rise of 50 feet above Stockton Street, but as seen from Mercer Street and including rooftop machinery it will reach more than 100 feet high. Nothing in historic residential Princeton comes remotely close to the height of this ill-advised development.

With its whopping 238 units and a 261 vehicle underground garage the project will be by far the highest in density in any residential neighborhood in Princeton. It will be more than twice as dense as The Alice beside Princeton Shopping Center. The looming traffic concerns, meanwhile, are nightmarish.

To be clear, this project is not an effort to achieve housing equity. It is an immense profit-driven luxury development

Letters to the Editor Policy

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

All letters are subject to editing and to available space.

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

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

When necessary, letters with negative content may be shared with the person/group in question in order to allow them the courtesy of a response, with the understanding that the communications end there. Letters to the Editor may be submitted, preferably by email, to editor@towntopics.com, or by post to Town Topics, PO Box 125, Kingston, N.J. 08528. Letters submitted via mail must have a valid signature.

with the absolute minimum set-aside for affordable housing as required by law. Alternative plans for the site with lower density but more affordable housing have been presented to municipal authorities for consideration and summarily rejected.

If the project advances, Princetonians in general, not just those who live in the neighborhood, will be the losers. Residents need to know that the municipality has committed a $40 million tax break giveaway to the developer. This will shift the tax burden for schools and other public necessities away from the developer to ordinary taxpayers. Moreover, as the historians remind us, Princeton is a national treasure, and this heritage is to our collective benefit, especially as we approach the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.

Princetonians: please help protect Princeton’s unique historic heritage. First, please send a brief note of support to the historians at historicprinceton@gmail.com. Second, please contact members of Princeton Council and of the Princeton Planning Board to make clear your opposition and remind them that they will be held accountable. Third, please attend all public meetings about this project. In all, celebrate Princeton history by protecting it against this unwarranted private development, for today and for the generations to come.

ROB ROBERTSON Mercer Street

Responding to Letter Regarding Safety Issues in and Around Town

To the Editor:

I want to express my appreciation to Buzz Stenn for his intellectual approach to understanding the safety issues in and around town [“Noting That Pedestrian-Vehicular Safety Depends on Appreciation for Sensitivities of All Involved,” Mailbox, April 23]. His approach was comprehensive — he included every user group. If safety is to be improved, we have to all be in this together.

I am frustrated by all the times I have seen my fellow bicycle club riders (a) ride three abreast and (b) not respond when someone calls “car back!” I am frustrated by cyclists riding in pedestrian spaces. I admit to doing this on rare occasions. I am aggravated by seeing people cycle against traffic. I even see people, including a former town Council candidate, ride against traffic on Spring Street! I am upset when I see people drive or cycle through red lights. I am aggravated by impatient drivers whether I am driving or bicycling.

Just on Sunday, I was out of town biking, and someone stopped to let me turn left from Route 526 and then as I was making the turn a motorist passed the motorist giving me the signal on the right!

I do want to mention one situation that gets no attention from anyone down the street from Buzz Stenn’s home. That is the car driver(s) that regularly leave(s) the car(s) parked on the sidewalk at the house at the corner of Stockton, Nassau, and Bayard. Has anyone else noticed that? Last year I complained to the town Council about the situation. These people are preventing pedestrians from walking safely. Why do these people want to inhibit the safe passage of pedestrians? They can’t argue that there is no safe, convenient place to park. First, diagonally across from the house is the Monument Hall parking lot. A block or

so away from the house is the Trinity Church parking lot. If the packages are too heavy to carry, invest in a hand cart. Please don’t put the lives of pedestrians in jeopardy. It does seem that I am having more frequent brushes with other vehicles in town and out of town. Reducing the speed limit on Witherspoon Street and soon on Cherry Hill Road is one way to practice Vision Zero. The action of town Council and Department of Public Works is not enough. People have to respond to signage and not assume that they are above the law whether they are car drivers, cyclists, or pedestrians. Certainly, if a driver goes around the block to get where they are going, it is a safer situation than making a U-turn on Nassau Street.

DAN RAPPOPORT

Copperwood

The writer is one of the five original incorporators of the Princeton Freewheelers and is a member of the Princeton Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee. The views expressed here are not intended to represent the views of anyone in the bicycle club or the people appointed by the mayor to be on the committee.

Get ready to ride! Get Ready to Ride!

We are celebrating National Bike Month! FOR

at a randomly chosen Princeton street corner

cards from local businesses. Participating businesses include:

Whole Earth Center • bent spoon • small world coffee • Labyrinth Books Nassau Street Seafood • Blue Point Grill • Witherspoon Grill • Kristine’s Mediterra • Eno Terra • Teresa Caffe • Terra Momo Bread Company

Yankee Doodle Tap Room • Nassau Inn • Miya Table & Home

Meeting House • Triumph Brewing • Orvana • McCarter Theatre

Homestead Princeton • Princeton Tour Company

Tipple & Rose • Tico’s Eatery & Juice Bar

Princeton Soup & Sandwich • Olives Jammin’ Crepes • Hinkson’s • LiLLiPiES

Princeton Record Exchange

Olsson’s Fine Foods • jaZams

Princeton Recreation Department

Princeton Corkscrew Wine Shop

Telling the Untold Story About

Titanic’s Chinese Survivors

The author Steven Schwankert discusses and signs copies of his recently released book The Six: The Untold Story of the Titanic’s Chinese Survivors , and explores how they survived the Titanic sinking against all odds. The program is Thursday, May 8, at 7 p.m. in the Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street.

According to the publisher (Pegasus Books, $29.95), when RMS Titanic sank on a cold night in 1912, barely 700 people escaped with their lives. Among them were six Chinese men. Arriving in New York, these six were met with suspicion and slander. Fewer than 24 hours later, they were expelled from the country and vanished.

When historian Schwankert first stumbled across the fact that eight Chinese nationals were on board, of whom all but two survived, he couldn’t believe that there could still be un -

Halteman, Chignell Advise Going ‘Joyfully’ Vegan

Online Author Talk Exposes Dangers of Sweetened Beverages

told personal histories from the Titanic, and proceeded to tell their story.

“Resurrecting forgotten voices from history’s most famous shipwreck, Schwankert’s meticulous research unveils the harrowing journey of the Chinese Titanic survivors, exposing a deeply human narrative lost to time and prejudice,” writes Amy Tan, author of The Backyard Bird Chronicles, and The Joy Luck Club.

Schwankert, an awardwinning writer and editor, is the co-creator of a documentary film project about the Chinese passengers aboard RMS Titanic. He is the author of na’s Secret Salvage of Brit ain’s Lost Submarine Beijing & Shanghai book now in its third edition. He is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, a fel low and East and South Asia Chapter Chair of The Explor ers Club, and founded SinoS cuba. He led the first-ever scientific expedition to dive Mongolia’s Lake Khovsgol, where he and his team found two wooden shipwrecks from the early 20th century. His writing has appeared in The Asian Wall Street Journal, The South China Morning Post, Billboard, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, The New York Times, The Wash ington Post, and more. He di vides his time between New York City and the People’s Republic of China. The program is presented with support from the Na tional Endowment for the Humanities.

In the book Hungry Beautiful Animals: The Joyful Case for Going Vegan , philosopher author Matthew C. Halteman shows us how—despite all the forces arrayed against going vegan—we can create an abundant life for everyone without using animals for food. He suggests that while it might seem that moral rectitude or environmental judgement should do the trick, he contends that going vegan must be about flourishing, for all life, and shame and blame don’t lead to flourishing.

forgiveness, of love. Funny and wise, this book frees us joyfully to want what we already know we need.

Halteman is professor of philosophy at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Mich., and fellow in the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics, UK. He is the author of Compassionate Eating as Care of Creation

Chignell is a professor in the University Center for Human Values at Princeton, with appointments in the Religion and Philosophy departments. He co-directs the new Princeton Project

A virtual program from Princeton Public Library offers author Murray Carpenter discussing his recently published book, Sweet and Deadly: How Coca-Cola Spreads Disinformation and Makes Us Sick, with Jennie Erin Smith via Zoom. THE program is on Monday, May 5, from 7 to 8 p.m. Registration is required, and can be completed through the library events website, princetonlibrary.libnet.info/ event/13480784.

According to the publisher (The MIT Press, $29.95), if we knew that Coca-Cola was among the deadliest products in our diet, would we continue drinking it in such

ing, Carpenter describes in Sweet and Deadly the damage Coke does to America’s health—and the remarkable campaign of disinformation conducted by the company. The book contends that sugar-sweetened beverages contribute to the epidemic of chronic disease—in particular, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Carpenter is the author of Caffeinated: How Our Daily Habit Helps, Hurts, and Hooks Us. He has worked as a print and radio journalist in Maine for 25 years, and has reported for the New York Times, NPR, and The Washington Post.

Steven Schwankert

Ending Poetry’s Month with Three TV Series Antiheroes

I’ve always been interested in poetry and poets that show up in unexpected places. And, as happened recently with another national recognition month, I’d forgotten that April was National Poetry Month. Even so, given my sense of poetry as a gift not necessarily confined between the covers of a book, I inadvertently signaled the subject this month with pieces featuring a great poet named Charlie Chaplin (who W.C. Fields, a poet himself, called a “ballerina”); a lesser known “disappearing” poet (Weldon Kees); and the greatest of them all, on the stage or the page or in the air, William Shakespeare. The one sentence of Ralph Waldo Emerson’s I know by heart is from his essay “The Poet”: “The people fancy they hate poetry, and they are all poets and mystics.”

Tony Soprano a Poet?

Before poetry surprised me on the front page of Tuesday’s New York Times with a squib on Charlotte Brontë’s “A Book of Rhymes,” I was well into an article about being haunted by the actors, characters, and situations of 21st-century television series like David Chase’s The Sopranos , Matthew Weiner’s Mad Men, and Graham Yost’s Justified

David Chase’s shocking cut-to-black never-ending ending of The Sopranos qualifies as poetry if only because it’s sudden and enigmatic, like a line of verse that keeps you wondering. Tony and Carmela and their kids A.J. and Meadow have met for a dinner out, Tony has set Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” playing “on and on and on” on the jukebox, as Meadow hurries in late after a clumsy parking job, adding a touch of everyday angst to the life-or-death tension that the family-meal atmosphere is already pulsing with, an undercurrent of dread thanks to mass audience apprehension energized and intensified by the song, as Steve Perry sings the words “Don’t stop” and James Gandolfini’s Tony gazes into the dark unknown.

Don Draper a Poet?

Gandolfini died suddenly in Rome half a decade later at 51, and so was spared the sort of post-glory-years humiliation suffered by Mad Men’s Jon Hamm in the new Apple TV+ series Your Friends and Neighbors . The repellent rich folk he’s stealing from, with their showcases of fabulously expensive watches, sports trophies, and $300 K bottles of wine, strike me as the sort of smug entitled people Tony and Carmela might have hung out with if they’d survived into their “golden years.”

The Mad Men scene that still haunts me with its poetry is the Season One finale in which Hamm’s Don Draper delivers his slide projector sales pitch to Kodak, dimming the conference room lights for a slide show composed of images from happier days with his family, from whom he’s becoming estranged. As the images flash and fade, he tells his clients what they’re selling isn’t technology but memory. “This device isn’t a spaceship; it’s a time machine. It goes backwards and forwards. It takes us to a place where we ache to go again. It’s not called the wheel. It’s called the carousel. It lets us travel the way a child travels, around and back home again to a place where we know we are loved.”

We already know that Draper’s genius for creating the slogan that sticks is a form of poetry based on his visceral understanding of Emerson’s trope, that the public that thinks it hates poetry is actually unknowingly in love with it. The poetry of Draper and Soprano comes and goes in a place touched on in the song from Damn Yankees , “You gotta have heart,” “miles and miles” of which Mad Men stored up in the carousel season finale, as did The Sopranos , in the Season One finale wherein Tony, Carmela, A.J. and Meadow find shelter on a stormy night in a family friend’s restaurant, a calm, civilized, candlelit refuge from the wind and rain. After dinner, wine is poured, and the poet in Tony offers a toast to his family. “If you’re lucky, you’ll have families of your own one day,” he says, Gandolfini feeling each word, “and you’ll remember the little moments like this, that were good.” After an episode rocked with violence, death and desperation, wordplay and wild humor, what you remember and what sets you up for the black-out series finale is the way the heart of the show lives in the

voice of an inspired actor speaking some simple, beautifully felt words.

The Poetry of Passion Graham Yost’s FX series Justified casts a long, haunting shadow, but no one scene from that show follows me around the way Walton Goggins does. For this actor, “haunting” doesn’t really say it. He is, for lack of a better term, not like anybody else on the planet as he moves from his unforgettable portrayal of Shane Vendrell in The Shield to the sheer genius of his many-leveled creation of the demon poet Boyd Crowder in Justified Consider his uninhibited response on collider.com about playing Vendrell in Shawn Ryan’s FX series on rogue cops in the LAPD. Referring to the ending [Vendrell kills his wife and his little boy, putting a bouquet of flowers he just bought on his wife’s body and a new toy on his son’s before shooting himself in the head]:

“For me, it almost broke my heart when that happened because I love him very much, not from a friend standpoint. I just want to hug him.”

Goggins in “White Lotus” Goggins probably also loves the fascinating monster he and Yost created in Justified’s Boyd Crowder, with his scathing wit, explosiveness, and lines like “I am an outlaw and this is my world .” It’s because of Walton Goggins, his fire, his unpredictability, that my wife and I stuck with the third season of Mike White’s White Lotus , a series we’d given up on after cringing our way through the pilot. Though the presence of actor-poets like Carrie Coons and Parker Posey helped keep us watching, Goggins was the main attraction, the Baudelaire at the spa. Even then we hesitated because he was rarely mentioned in the usual chatter ahead of what sounded like another cringe fest

among the rich and mildly infamous. From his first moment as Rick Hatchett, Goggins was almost audibly glowering, like the hiss of a lit fuse. It’s painful to recall how much really abysmal television we endured waiting for him to explode, which he does, after setting free a cage full of cobras. The wildly romantic last shot is like a lunatic revision of the Shield’s murder-suicide. With his dead lover in his arms, killed in a crossfire he instigated, Rick is shot in the back, the first kill for a gentle Thai cop who, after much prompting (“Kill him! Kill him! Kill him!”), finally fires showrunner Mike White’s version of Chekhov’s gun.

On the Poetry Trail

My favorite stretch of the D&R Greenway Poetry Trail is from the Pattiann Rogers bench to the C.K. Williams bench. Last week I sat down long enough to read Rogers’s posted “The Family Is All There Is,” which ends:

“The family -- weavers, reachers, winders and connivers, pumpers, runners, air and bubble riders, rock-sitters, wave-gliders, wire-wobblers, soothers, flagellators -- all brothers, sisters, all there is. Name something else.”

It’s a moderately uphill walk to the C.K. Williams poem “The Garden,” which is posted for the world to read in a shady spot, and which ends as something alights on the poet’s hand and, startled, he instinctively, inadvertently flinches it off only to see “a warbler, gray, black, yellow, in flight already away. It stopped near me in a shrub, though, and waited, as though unstartled, as though unafraid, as though to tell me my reflex of fear was no failure, that if I believed I had lost something, I was wrong, because nothing can be lost, of the self, of a lifetime of bringing forth selves.”

Closet Poet

Writing about Don Draper during the first season of Mad Men, I asked, “Who else but a closet poet would notice someone in a bar reading Frank O’Hara’s Meditations in an Emergency and be curious enough to lay hands on it? Like its hero, Mad Men is open to everything, so why not have Jon Hamm reading from Frank O’Hara’s “Mayakovsky” in voiceover, “Now I am quietly waiting for the catastrophe of my personality to seem beautiful again, and interesting, and modern.”

–Stuart Mitchner

Performing Arts

AN ECLECTIC MIX: American Repertory Ballet dancers Leandro Olcese (left) and Savannah Quiner in “The Time That Runs Away” by Stephanie Martinez, on

Classical and Contemporary On Upcoming Ballet Program

“Pasion” is the title of the program being presented by American Repertory Ballet at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center May 9-11. Three works, with Spanish, Mexican, and Cuban ties, are being danced. Originally choreographed by Joseph Mazilier and later restaged by Marius Petipa in the mid-19th century, Paquita is one of the purest and most technically challenging ballets of the classical repertoire. With its Spanish flair, the ballet includes a pas de deux, pas de trois, and virtuosic solos.

“The Time That Runs Away” by Stephanie Martinez returns to ARB this season. A co-commission with Madison Ballet, it is set to music of Nat King Cole and The Mamas and the Papas.

“The piece is a kaleidoscope,” said ARB dancer Erikka Reenstiema-Cates, “illustrating unique patterns and shapes depending on how you twist it. But it never strays far from its intention: the appreciation of love and loss and every moment in between — the gift of life, and the pertinent struggle to live it.”

“Compasso” is a world premiere from Luis Napoles,

danced to live music. “This powerful fusion of selfexpression and deep connection blends individual sparks into a shared rhythm, a united heartbeat,” said Napoles. “In that space, you’re not just seen — you’re felt, and you feel others, too. Dance becomes more than art, it becomes a celebration of belonging, of being part of something greater while never losing the essense of you. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s pure joy.”

Shows are Friday, May 9 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, May 10 at 2 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, May 11 at 2 p.m. A postshow reception is scheduled

for Friday; pre-show artist talks are at the Saturday matinee and Sunday performances. Visit arballet. org for ticket information. The theater is located at 11 Livingston Avenue in New Brunswick.

The LOTUS Project Presents Arts Festival

The LOTUS Project has announced its festival series “Remembrance & Resilience: Commemorating Stories Through Music & Art,” a multi-venue celebration weaving together music, visual art, and community dialogue to honor journeys of survival and solidarity. From May 7 through June 18, audiences are invited to explore self-guided exhibits, chamber and choral-orchestral concerts, gallery talks, panel discussions, and workshops — all in partnership with cultural and humanitarian organizations.

A mix of personal narratives expressed through art and music, the series features new commissions by artistin-residence Alia Bensliman; musical works by Lori Laitman, Jake Heggie, Caroline Shaw, and Laurence Sherr; and community programs developed with I-Rise Trenton and Kennesaw State University’s Museum of History and Holocaust Education .

“We are deeply honored to partner with Kennesaw State University’s Museum of History and Holocaust Education on this concertexhibit series. Their invitation to collaborate has allowed us to bring together powerful musical works and visual narratives in a shared space of remembrance and hope. This series is a true

celebration of resilience, and we look forward to inviting our communities to experience these stories together.” said Alicia Brozovich, artistic director of The LOTUS Project.

A performing arts organization located in Trenton, The LOTUS Project’s mission is “to craft immersive musical experiences in which we can encounter the world with new eyes and a renewed sense of wonder,” reads a press release. “Inspired by the Spoleto Festival in Charleston, SC, The LOTUS Project plans to realize its vision — to transform our community through powerful artistic encounters — through launching an annual music and arts festival in Trenton. The organization currently offers a fully professional chamber choir, fully professional chamber orchestra, and community vocal ensemble.

A self-guided exhibit will be held Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. (last entries at 1:30 and 6:30 p.m.) at 120 East State Street in Trenton. This rotating visual arts exhibit features portrait panels by Bensliman and stories of local refugee and immigrant families. All donations support I-Rise Trenton’s work with displaced families.

On May 14 from 4-7 p.m. at 120 East State Street, an exhibit and discussion, “Words, Music, Memory” is a curator-led panel on the chain of commemoration — witness, preservation, interpretation, performance — hosted with Kennesaw State University’s Museum of History and Holocaust Education. A chamber concert

entitled “(Re)Presenting Voices of the Holocaust” is scheduled for May 18 at 4 p.m. at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 140 North Warren Street, Trenton. A trio with soprano, piano, and oboe will perform works that reflect on Holocaust remembrance and resilience.

On June 4 from 4-7 p.m. at 120 East State Street, a panel and reception, “Refuge or Refusal,” with I-Rise Trenton examines pivotal moments in U.S. immigration policy from 1790 to 1965, followed by an exhibit reception. On June 8 at 4 p.m. at Stone Hill Church a preview concert and composer talk, “Fugitive Footsteps” is scheduled. Composer-in-fesidence Laurence Sherr, the son of Jewish immigrants, presents his setting of Nelly Sachs’s poetry, performed by The LOTUS Project Chorale, with a discussion on refugee and Holocaust themes. An artist talk and reception, “Courage and Compassion,” is June 11 from 4-7 p.m. at 120 East State Street. Bensliman will lead a gallery talk on her commissioned portraits of local refugee families, followed by a reception. Finally, on June 15 at 4 p.m. at Patriots Theater at the War Memorial in Trenton, a choral/orchestral concert, “Membra Nostri, Hands of Hope” features the LOTUS Festival Orchestra and LOTUS Chorale, with local refugee guest musicians and youth choral singers performing works that tell uplifting stories of survival and solidarity. For tickets and more information, visit the lotusprojectnj.org/festival-series.

Wednesday 5/7 at 5:30PM

Princeton University Chapel

Sound Journey

Friday 5/2 at 7:30PM

Princeton University Chapel Voice recital:

Ein botanischer Liederabend

Soprano Nicole Aldrich and pianist Eric Plutz present an evening of German art song celebrating all things plant, tree, and flower. Composers include Brahms, Schumann, Zumsteeg, Le Beau, and Strauss.

Saturday 5/3 at 3PM

Princeton University Chapel

The University of Maryland Chamber Singers

The internationally renowned University of Maryland Chamber Singers present an exciting and varied program entitled “What Have We Done TODAY?” Led by Jason Max Ferdinand.

Sunday 5/4 at 11AM

Princeton University Chapel

Sunday Worship Service

Preaching today is Rev. Dr. Brittany Longsdorf, Associate Dean of Religious Life and the Chapel, Princeton University.

Events are free and open to all!

Sound healing practitioner Ruth Cunningham presents composed and improvised music for meditation, contemplation, and prayer.

Sunday 5/11 at 11AM

Princeton University Chapel

Sunday Worship Service

Today is Student Recognition Sunday. Preaching today will be the winner of the Rev. Dr. Joseph Williamson Sermon Competition.

Wednesday 5/14 at 8PM

Princeton University Chapel

Jazz Vespers

An inclusive experience of poetry, music, and quiet centering, featuring jazz saxophonist Audrey Welber, pianist Adam Faulk, and members of the Chapel Choir.

Sunday 5/18 at 11AM

Princeton University Chapel

Sunday Worship Service

Preaching today is Rev. Dr. Theresa S. Thames, Dean of Religious Life and the Chapel, Princeton University.

Friday 5/23 at 3PM

Princeton University Chapel Reunions Organ Concert

University Organist Eric Plutz plans an entertaining program full of variety for the returning Princeton University Alumni and general public.

Friday 5/23 at 5:15PM

Princeton University Chapel Reunions Alumni Sing

University Chapel Choir alumni will gather for an exciting musical reunion across generations. With Nicole Aldrich, Director of Chapel Music, and Eric Plutz, University Organist.

Sunday 5/25 at 10AM

Princeton University Chapel Reunions Worship Service

Preaching today is the 50th Reunions Preacher, Rev. Dr. Margaret Benefiel ‘75, Executive Director of the Shalem Institute

the program at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center May 9-11.
(Photo by Megan Teat)
Office of Religious Life Upcoming Events

Princeton Sinfonia Concert Highlights Student Soloists

Ruth Ochs leads the Princeton University Sinfonia on Friday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m. in a concert at Richardson Auditorium. The Spring Concert will highlight student soloists and Florence Price’s Symphony No. 1.

The concert will also include the world premiere of Toussaint Santicola Jones ’25 That Which I Cannot See: Concerto for Tuba and Orchestra featuring Wesley Sanders ’26, tuba soloist; Strauss’s Concerto No. 1 for Horn, Spencer Bauman ’25, horn soloist, and Luigi Bassi’s Fantasia da Concerto on Themes from Verdi’s Rigoletto, with Mason Thieu ’25, clarinet soloist.

The Sinfonia Flute (Dr. Sarah Shin, director) and Clarinet Ensembles (Jo-Ann Sternberg, director) will also perform.

Tickets are $15 ($5 students). Visit tickets. princeton.edu.

Dancing, Singing, and More In “OOPS!” at Phillips’ Mill

The Phillips’ Mill stage presents “OOPS!,” the annual Spring Musical Comedy Cabaret with four evening performances May 14 -17, at 7:30 p.m., 2619 River Road in New Hope, Pa.

The troupe of 16 local actors act, dance, and sing in five short plays written by local playwrights Lisa

DeAngelis, Michael Naylor, John Augustine, John McDonnell, and Richard Goodwin. “OOPS!” is produced by Valerie Eastburn with Fran Young directing and casting, and Betty Benton as choreographer.

“This is community theater at its best. Come and be part of it. You’ll feel good,” said Eastburn.

Seating is cabaret style and audience members are invited to BYOB and snacks. Doors open at 7 pm. Tickets are $28 - $32 including premium seating and member discounts. All tickets must be purchased in advance at phillipsmill.org.

Raritan Music Festival Holds 36th Season

The Raritan River Music Festival (RRM) will hold its 36th season on Saturdays May 10-31 at 7:30 p.m., at locations in Hunterdon County.

Guitarists Laura Oltman and Michael Newman, the festival’s artistic directors, founded the festival with the goal of bringing live chamber music to historic venues in Hunterdon County. This year’s series is titled “Old Friends & New Faces: 300 Years of Music.”

The Newman & Oltman Guitar Duo will perform “Music from the NEW World: 21st Century Masterpieces” with the Bergamot Quartet on May 24. The program includes

music by Lowell Liebermann, Daniel Binelli, Ledah Finck, Caroline Shaw and Payton MacDonald and will be held at Stanton Reformed Church, Stanton.

The festival opens on Saturday, May 10 with a performance by the Tempesta di Mare. The ensemble will perform works of Bach, Couperin, Marais, Telemann, and Morel at Bethlehem Presbyterian Church in Pittstown. On May 17, pianist David Korevaar will perform “Heroic to Hammerklavier: Beethoven Piano Sonatas” at Old Greenwich Presbyterian Church in Stewartsville.

Korevaar comes to the festival for the first time, while on his way to perform concerts throughout Brazil. The most recent addition to his discography of over 50 titles is Beethoven’s cycle of piano sonatas being released throughout 2025-26.

The festival will close on May 31 with a performance by marimba virtuoso Greg Giannascoli who will perform a program titled “America Meets Old Masters: Classical Favorites for Marimba, Vibraphone, & Piano” featuring works by Gershwin, Piazzolla, Bach, Rimsky-Korsakov, and others. Joining Giannascoli are Behm Gillece, vibraphone and Ron Stabinsky, piano. The concert is at historic Hunterdon County Courthouse, 71 Main Street, Flemington.

In addition to the annual concerts in May, the festival presents programs year-round

in the annual Spring

IN PHILLY: Jacqueline Callahan with artists of the Philadelphia

“Études,” with shares a program with “La Sylphide.”

for young children, seniors, and patients at healthcare facilities around the region. RRM also creates a legacy of new works and recordings commissioned by RRM’s patrons, as well as presenting new music at each concert by local school-age composers.

In addition to founding and serving as Artistic Directors of the RRMF, Newman and Oltman are the founders and artistic directors of the New York Guitar Seminar at Mannes and are celebrating their 36th season as ensemble-in-residence at Mannes College of Music.

Visit RaritanRiverMusic. org for tickets and details.

“La Sylphide,” “Etudes” On Philadelphia Program Philadelphia Ballet concludes its 2024/25 season with the Romantic ballet La Sylphide and the neoclassical work Études Performances will run May 8 - 11 at the Academy of Music on Broad and Locust streets.

Set in the misty Scottish Highlands, La Sylphide tells the story of James, a young man lured away from his fiancée on the morning of their wedding by a mysterious and enchanting sylph. La Sylphide is one of the oldest surviving Romantic. In contrast, Études, choreographed by Harald Lander, is a celebration of ballet itself. The ballet begins with dancers at the barre and culminates in a virtuosic display of classical technique.

“This final program of our season beautifully captures ballet’s evolution from the poetic Romanticism of La Sylphide to the athletic precision of Études ,” said Artsitic Director Angel Corella “It’s a fitting close to our 60th Anniversary Season, honoring the past while embracing the future of this extraordinary art form.”

Ticket prices start at $25 and are available at philadelphiaballet.org.

Free Chamber Concert At Unitarian Church

A free chamber music and jazz concert is planned for Sunday, May 4 at 2:30 p.m., at the Unitarian Church of Princeton, 50 Cherry Hill Road.

Pianist Jason Gallagher will play pieces by Robert Schumann and Akira Yuyama. Guitarists Frank and Ellen Ruck, the Blue Jersey Band Duet, will perform “The Music and Style of Django Reinhardt.”

Also on the program is clarinetist David Millrod, playing music of Krzysztof Penderecki. Millrod will also perform a piece by Robert Schumann with pianist Nishan Aghababian, who will then perform works by Isaac Albéniz, Sergei Prokofiev, and Frédéric Chopin.

The program is hosted by the Belle Mead Friends of Music.

SPRING CONCERT: The Princeton University Sinfonia, led by Ruth Ochs, includes a world premiere by student Toussaint Santicola Jones ’25 at its Richardson Auditorium performance on Friday, May 2.
COME TO THE CABARET: Members of the Phillips’ Mill Players perform
Musical Comedy Cabaret May 14-17 at the Mill in New Hope, Pa.
CLASSICS
Ballet in rehearsal for
(Photo byArian Molina Soca)

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas!

Fresh Cut Flower Arrangements and Bouquets

Rose Bushes, Hanging Baskets, and Patio Planters

Wicker Baskets Filled with Herbs or Beautiful Blooming Plants

Lots of Annuals, Vegetable Plants and Perennials to Brighten Up Her Garden Woodstock Wind Chimes

Greenleaf Candles

Open Mothers Day, May 11th | 9am-6 pm

Family Owned Since 1976

Full Service Florist and Garden Center

Annuals, Perennials, Herbs and Gardening Supplies Hanging Baskets and Patio Planters

Located at 189 Washington Road, Princeton NJ.

Follow us

Instagram @pernasplantandflower Facebook @Perna’s Plant and Flower ShopPrinceton Flower Delivery (609) 452-1383 www.pernasflowers.com

Saturday, May 10 | 1-3 pm | Tickets $39/person

Don't miss out on our annual Rosé Festival happening on May 10! Enjoy a lovely afternoon on our patio, or in the upstairs loft if the weather doesn't cooperate.

With more than a dozen rosé wines from around the globe, you're destined to discover your new favorite.

This year, we're elevating the experience with a stunning backdrop and a charming bloom bar— an ideal way to treat your mom this Mother's Day.

This event is a walk-around format. Light bites will be served.

For tickets: Enoterra.com/store/events/RoseFest (609) 497-1777 4484 NJ-27, Kingston, New Jersey www.enoterra.com

“Plume” Exhibition

At Artworks Trenton

Laura Beard has immersed herself into the world of birds in her latest exhibit

“Plume,” at Artworks Trenton in Trenton from May 6 through June 6. Ranging from realistic to abstract, whimsical to fantastical, her artwork invites the audience to consider birds differently and reflect on their presence and influence on our human world.

An opening reception is on May 10 from 6 to 8 p.m.

“We’re delighted to showcase this body of work

from an artist with whom we have a longstanding relationship.” said Addison Vincent, artistic director of Artworks Trenton. “Laura’s work never disappoints and her connection to nature is evident in all her works. We are glad to host this exhibition this spring and our hope is that patrons look at our avian friends differently after viewing this exhibition.”

“Birds have been a constant presence in the lives of humans. I have assembled this collection of my paintings to highlight the depth of variation in the avian world and to suggest looking at birds from different perspectives to truly be able to appreciate all that they add to our world,” said Beard. “From the tiniest humming -

birds to the mighty emu, our relationship with birds is a blending of the mundane and the magical and I hope that the viewer will enjoy seeing them as much as I have enjoyed painting them.”

Beard lives and works in Ewing. Her art has been featured in many regional exhibits and she has won awards from the New Jersey Watercolor Society and the Ellarslie Open at Trenton City Museum. She is proud to be a member of Artworks Trenton, The Garden State Watercolor Society, the New Jersey Watercolor Society, and Artists of Yardley.

For more information about this exhibition and Artworks Trenton, visit artworkstrenton.org.

J. Joseph Moakley Professor of Political Science and Philosophy, Boston College

Alpheus T. Mason Lecture on Constitutional Law and Political Thought: The Quest for Freedom

Artists Wanted for Art All Night 2025

Artworks Trenton has announced the theme for Art All Night 2025: Trennaissance — a tribute to Trenton’s creative roots and a call to action for its future.

Trennaissance blends “Trenton” and “Renaissance” to celebrate a cultural revival grounded in community, expression, and the enduring power of art to bring people together.

Set to take place June 28 from 3 p.m. to 12 a.m. and June 29 from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the War Memorial, Art All Night will be previewed through a series of

lead-up events titled “Artworks Trenton Presents: The Preview,” hosted at 19 Everett Alley. These pop-up happenings will bring back prepandemic activities based on community feedback, including the glass blowing demonstrations, and live performances. Attendees will also have the chance to co-create photo walls that echo past installations, to be revealed as featured works at the War Memorial during Art All Night.

“Trennaissance is more than a theme — It’s history in the making ,” said Kenny Bullock, creative director of Art All Night. “ We’re honor -

ing the artists and cultural workers who built this space and making room for the next generation of creators to rise. This isn’t just about art — it’s about community, legacy, and what we can build together when everyone is invited to the table.”

The official Art All Night Trenton website is at artallnighttrenton.org, and open calls are now live. Art All Night is looking for visual artists, musicians, performers, vendors, volunteers, and community members ready to bring the energy. Sign up, spread the word, and help them make this year’s event the most vibrant one yet.

® Town Topics est. 1946 a Princeton tradition!

ART ALL NIGHT: This year’s Art All Night event will take place place on June 28 from 3 p.m. to 12 a.m. and June 29 from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the War Memorial in Trenton. (Photo by Lucky 17)

“HERRING GUT PORT CLYDE”:

“Still & Wild” Exhibition Coming to Artists’ Gallery Artists’ Gallery, 18 Bridge Street, Lambertville, will present “Still & Wild,” an exhibition featuring the animal art of Beatrice Bork and the landscapes of Michael Schweigart, May 8 to June 1, with an opening reception on Saturday, May 10, from 5 to 8 p.m.

This exhibition highlights the beauty and contemplation found in animal and landscape art. Both artists offer intimate depictions that invite viewers to explore nature’s stillness and wildness in harmony.

Bork said, “Within my genre of animal art, I strive to create watercolor paintings that go beyond representation — each work is both an intimate observation and an expressive interpretation, balancing realism with personal reflection, guided by a deep reverence for my subjects. Ultimately, I hope to offer a space for reflection — one that inspires a deeper connection and a renewed appreciation for the natural world, its many nuances, and the animals with whom we share it.”

Schweigart said, “Through my paintings, I strive to

capture the ephemeral beauty of fleeting moments and the profound stillness that can be found within them. My creative process is a journey of discovery, where intuition and spontaneity guide my hand, allowing me to navigate the uncharted territories of my imagination. Each piece I create is an invitation to the viewer to embark on their own personal journey, to engage with the work on a sensory and emotional level.”

Bork is renowned for her animal art. Her water media creations are a visual journey reflecting her lifelong connection with nature.

With a 30-year career, Bork holds a signature status with the Society of Animal Artists (SAA) and has received acclaim in international exhibitions, including the prestigious “Art and the Animal.” Notably, she earned the Don Eckelberry Award for exceptional bird art, leading her to explore Trinidad and Tobago’s neotropical rainforest. Bork’s

Arts Council to Hold Princeton Art Bazaar

The Arts Council of Princeton (ACP) will present the Princeton Art Bazaar, a daylong celebration of creativity, in downtown Princeton on Saturday, May 3.

From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., 100+ vendors will line Paul Robeson Place, off Witherspoon Street, to sell their wares. Offerings range from ceramics, jewelry, original paintings, printmaking, glass, photography, wood, fresh florals, and more.

Attendees will recognize local favorites from previous ACP markets, including hand-turned bowls by Jerseywood, fresh flowers from Sprouts, vintage glassware treasures from Beyond the Wildflowers, pottery from Big Smile Ceramics, and sustainable goods from Lotus 8. New finds will include watercolor works by Laura Lee Hallada Fine Art, linocut prints by Huiyi Kuo Prints, photographs by RichJayPhoto, and more.

From 1 to 4 p.m., the Arts Council welcomes attendees of all ages to get hands-on in their Open Studios. Try your hand at printmaking with Arts Council of Princeton print studio manager Dave DiMarchi, capoeira with Levi Guerrera, or flamenco with Lisa Botalico. Or join their child and caregiver event with Elizabeth Massa.

For the adults, the ACP and Triumph Brewery and Restaurant have partnered for a Beer Garden from 12 to 4 p.m. where attendees are invited to sip local brews while enjoying live music by local jam band Strange Brew. Beer Garden proceeds

benefit ACP community programming.

Arts Council of Princeton is at 102 Witherspoon Street. For a full vendor list and more information, visit artscouncilofprinceton.org or call (609) 924-8777. The Princeton Art Bazaar will be held rain or shine.

Area Exhibits

Art@Bainbridge, 158 Nassau Street, has “Roberto Lugo: Orange and Black” through July 6. Artmuseum. princeton.edu.

Artists’ Gallery, 18 Bridge Street, Lambertville, has “Imagine-Observe” through May 4. Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Lambertvillearts.com.

Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon Street, has “Metamorphosis,” “Precious Virtues,” and “Now and Then: Amazigh Resurgence” through May 3. Artscouncilofprinceton.org.

Gallery 14 Fine Art Photography, 14 Mercer Street, Hopewell, has “Places I’ve Been, Faces I’ve Seen” and “Japan to Manhattan” through May 4. Gallery 14.org.

Green Building Center, 67 Bridge Street, Lambertville, has “Awakenings” through June 20. Greenbuildingcenter.com.

Historical Society of Princeton, Updike Farmstead, 354 Quaker Road, has “Princeton Reflected: Stories from HSP’s Collection” and “Einstein Salon and Innovator’s Gallery.”

Museum hours are Thursday through Sunday, 12 to 4 p.m. Princetonhistory.org

Milberg Gallery at Firestone Library, Princeton University, has “The Most Formidable Weapon Against Errors: The Sid Lapidus ’59 Collection & the Age of Reason” through June 8. Library. princeton.edu/lapidus2025.

Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street, has “Historic Morven: A Window Into America’s Past” (ongoing). Morven.org.

The Nassau Club, 6 Mercer Street, has “Held Together” through June 5. Catherinejmartzloff.com.

Silva Gallery of Art, Pennington School, 113 West Delaware Avenue, Pennington, has “The Long Ride Home: Black Cowboys in America” through June 6. Pennington.org.

Silverman Gallery of Bucks County Impressionist Art, 4920 York Road, Holicong, Pa., has “David Stier: Refuge” through May 4.

Small World Coffee, 14 Witherspoon Street, has paintings by Rooma Sehar through May 6. Paintings by Alessandra Morabito are at the 254 Nassau Street location through May 6. Smallworldcoffee.com.

Trenton City Museum at Ellarslie, 299 Parkside Avenue, Trenton, has “Cultural Connections: Eastern European Artists from the Greater Trenton Area” through June 8. Ellarslie.org.

West Windsor Arts, 952 Alexander Road, West Windsor, has “Member Show: Your visual Story Through Art” through May 31. Westwindsorarts.org.

artwork has earned accolades both in regional and global exhibits.

Schweigart, a versatile artist, draws inspiration from various landscapes, creating scenes that characterize the regions he explores. His studio work, often a composite of memory, plein air sketches, and photographic images, is a testament to his deep appreciation for nature. Schweigart’s focus on Eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maine captures the unique way of life associated with these regions. His finished works showcase rich texture and atmosphere, reflecting both the presence of man and a strong sense of place. Schweigart has seen his paintings featured in publications, museums, galleries, and as part of both public and private collections around the country.

Artists’ Gallery is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. For more information, visit lambertvillearts.com.

“FLUFFER NUTTER”: This painting by Beatrice Bork is featured in “Still & Wild,” her joint exhibit with Michael Schweigart, on view May 8 through June 1 at Artists’ Gallery in Lambertville. An opening reception is on May 10 from 5 to 8 p.m.
This work by Michael Schweigart is part of “Still & Wild,” his dual exhibit with Beatrice Bork, on view May 8 through June 1 at Artists’ Gallery in Lambertville.

APRIL-MAY

Town Topics | Mark Your Calendar

Wednesday, April 30

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Leighton Listens. Councilmember Leighton Newlin is available to discuss issues impacting Princeton with members of the public at Tipple and Rose, 210 Nassau Street.

11 a.m.-3 p.m.: Princeton University Farmers’ Market , Firestone Library/ Chapel Plaza. Fresh produce and other goods from area farmers and businesses. Pumarket @princeton.edu

1-3 p.m.: Land Stewardship Volunteer Session at Billy Johnson Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve, Mountain Avenue. Sponsored by Friends of Princeton Open Space. Help remove invasive species, do spring planting, and more. Fopos.org.

7 p.m.: Whiplash is screened at the Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau Street, as part of the “Keeping the Score” film series. Gardentheatre.org/score.

7 p.m.: PSO Soundtracks Talk: The Signum Quartet gives an interactive talk at Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street. Includes performances of 140-note #quartweets by professional and student composers as well as premieres.

Presented by the Princeton Symphony Orchestra. Princetonsymphony.org.

Thursday, May 1

10 a.m.: Meeting of the 55-Plus Club of Princeton at The Jewish Center, 435 Nassau Street, and online via Zoom. Ambassador Adela Raz, Director of the Afghanistan Policy Lab at Princeton University, will speak on “The Resilience of Afghan Women Amid Political Chaos.” Free ($5 donation suggested). Princeton55plus.org.

10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.: People & Stories/Gente y Cuentos holds a weekly event titled Our Common Ground: Literature and Poetry in Community with People & Stories at Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street. Princetonlibrary.libnet.info/ event/13266655.

6 p.m.: Author Matthew Halteman discusses his book Hungry Beautiful Animals: The Joyful Case for Going Vegan with Princeton University Professor Andrew Chignell at Labyrinth Books, 122 Nassau Street. Labyrinthbooks.com.

6 p.m.: The Get Lit Book Club at Mercer County Library’s Lawrence

branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, discusses Interior Chinatown by Charles Yu. Registration requested. Mcl.org.

6 p.m.: Mother’s Day Musical Bouquet with singer Francine Evans and pianist Joel Zelnik, at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch of Mercer County Library System, 2751 Brunswick Pike. Register at mcl.org.

7 p.m.: The Adventures of Robin Hood is screened at the Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau Street, as part of the “Keeping the Score” film series. Gardentheatre.org/score.

Friday, May 2

9 a.m.-7 p.m.: Rummage Sale at Montgomery United Methodist Church, 117 Sunset Road, Belle Mead. Gently used clothing, shoes, jewelry, linens, small household items, books, board games, and more. Artisticaltruist@gmail.com

7:30 p.m.: Princeton University Sinfonia , conducted by Ruth Ochs, performs works by Florence Price, Toussaint Santicola Jones ’25, and other composers at Richardson Auditorium. $15 ($5 students). Tickets.princeton.edu.

7:30 p.m.: “Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: In Concert” at State Theatre New Jersey, 15 Livingston

Avenue, New Brunswick. $29-$125. Stnj.org.

Saturday, May 3

9 a.m.-12 p.m.: Rummage Sale at Montgomery United Methodist Church, 117 Sunset Road, Belle Mead. Gently used clothing, shoes, jewelry, linens, small household items, books, board games, and more. Artisticaltruist@gmail.com.

9 a.m.-2 p.m.: Rummage Sale at Unitarian Universalist Church, 50 Cherry Hill Road. Clothing and accessories, boutique and antique items, jewelry, electronics, office supplies, small appliances, kitchenware, Mother’s Day plant sale, and much more. Proceeds go to Mercer County nonprofits. Uuprinceton.org.

9 a.m.-2 p.m.: Rutgers Master Gardeners of Mercer County Plant Expo and Garden Market , 431A Federal City Road, Pennington. Perennials, trees, shrubs, and more from four farms; horticultural presentations Mgofmc.org.

10 a.m.-1 p.m.: Wheels Rodeo at the Municipal Building lot, 400 Witherspoon Street. Meet local police officers, learn bike safety skills, take a bike safety course, get fitted for helmets. Food, music, and more. Free. Princetonnj.gov.

10 a.m.-4 p.m.: Sheep Shearing and Herding at Howell Living History Farm , 70 Woodens Lane, Hopewell Township. Shearing, wool-spinning, weaving demonstrations and more. Howellfarm.org.

try printmaking, Capoeira, or Flamenco. Artscouncil ofprinceton.org.

10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Kite Day at Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road. Bring your own or make a kite. Wagon and pony rides, games, food, wine, and more. Music from 1-4 p.m. by Joah Blume. Terhuneorchards.com.

4 p.m.: Voices Chorale presents “Requiem X 2” at Trinity Church, 33 Mercer Street. With the Berks Sinfonietta Orchestra. Requiems by Mozart and Nunes Garcia VoicesChoraleNJ.org.

5 p.m.: Westminster Choir performs “The Sense of the Senses” at Rider University, Gill Chapel, 2083 Lawrenceville Road. Works by Chester Alwes, Schutz, Barber, Bach, and Rosephanye Powell. $15-$20. (609) 896-7775.

6:30 p.m.: Unionville Vineyards in Ringoes holds its 2025 Vineyard Pig Roast with food from Brick Farm Tavern, bluegrass by the Cold Soil Drifter, and open wine bar. $85. Unionvillevineyards.com.

7 p.m.: The Making of Our Planet: Life on Our Planet at McCarter Theatre, 91 University Place. Multimedia event with personal storytelling and behind-the-scenes moments from the Netflix program, hosted by showrunner Dan Tapster. Mccarter.org.

Sunday, May 4

1 p.m.: “Healing Voices: Caregiver Stories on Stage” at the Berlind Rehearsal Room at McCarter Theatre, 91 University Place. Presented by the New Jersey Theatre Alliance. Free. Education@mccarter.org.

2 p.m.: Screening of Road to Krasnostav followed by a discussion with filmmaker Leo Vayn at Ellaslie, Cadwalader Park, Trenton. Presented in conjunction with the exhibit “Cultural Connections: European Artists of Greater Trenton.” Ellaslie.org/cultural or (609) 989-1191. $5 at the door (free for Trenton City Museum members).

2:30-4 p.m.: Chamber music and jazz concert at the Unitarian Church of Princeton, 50 Cherry Hill Road. Hosted by the Belle Mead Friends of Music; with pianists Jason Gallagher and Nishan Aghababian, guitarists Frank and Ellen Ruck, the Blue Jersey Band Duet, and clarinetist David Millrod. Free.

3 p.m.: Westminster Conservatory Showcase at Richardson Auditorium. Ruth Ochs conducts the Westminster Community Orchestra, Tom Shelton leads the Rider University Chorale, and pianists Phyllis Alpert Lehrer and Ena Bronstein Barton perform, along with Honors Music Program vocal soloists and winners of the Conservatory Piano Concerto Competition. $15$20. Tickets.princeton.edu or (609) 258-9220.

11 a.m.-4 p.m.: Princeton Art Bazaar, presented by the Arts Council of Princeton, on Paul Robeson Place. More than 100 vendors sell ceramics, jewelry, original paintings, prints, glass, photography, wood, fresh florals, and more. Beer Garden from 12-4 p.m. with live music. Open studios from 1-4 p.m. to

10 a.m.-4 p.m.: Handmade Hopewell, a makers’ street fair, Seminary Avenue, Hopewell borough. More than 60 artisans offering textiles, home goods, paintings, ceramics, and more. Held rain or shine. Handmadehopewell.com.

10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Kite Day at Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road. Bring your own or make a kite. Wagon and pony rides, games, food, wine, and more. Music from 1-4 p.m. by Barbara Line Band. Terhuneorchards.com.

4-7 p.m.: Housing Initiatives of Princeton’s Spring Gathering , at a private home. Food, drinks, jazz, and a solutions-focused talk with housing policy economist Jenny Schuetz, author of Fixer-Upper: How to Repair America’s Broken Housing Systems. For tickets and location, visit bit.ly/ HIPMay4event.

5 p.m.: Staged reading of To Experience Encanto Negro by Oriana Nelson ’25, presented by Princeton University’s Lewis Center for the Arts at Drapkin Studio in the Lewis Arts complex. Free. Arts.princeton.edu.

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Lenape Medicinal Plant and Crops Talk at the Discovery Center at Point Breeze, 101 East Park Street, Bordentown. Chief Bluejay of the Lenape Nation of Pennsylvania speaks; presented by D&R Greenway Land Trust. $15. RSVP to drgreenway.org.

11 a.m.-4 p.m.: The Art Station Open Stu, 148 Monmouth Street, Hightstown. Tour the historic building, meet the artists and explore their creative processes. Light refreshments and a door prize. Artstationstudios.com.

12-3 p.m.: HomeFront’s Women’s Initiative Spring Luncheon at Grounds for Sculpture, Hamilton. Buffet brunch, live music, artisan shopping, and more, to benefit the nonprofit. Homefrontnj.org.

Monday, May 5

Recycling

6:30 p.m.: Historical Society of Princeton’s Annual Meeting and Lewis B. Cuyler Lecture at Updike Farmstead, 354 Quaker Road. Princetonhistory.org.

Tuesday, May 6 9:30 and 11 a.m.: Read & Pick: Vegetables. Handson farm activity followed by an education program with stories. $12. At Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road. Terhuneorchards.com.

8 p.m.: Coffee House : An evening of performance presented by Princeton University’s Lewis Center for the Arts at Wallace Theater in the Lewis Arts complex. Songs from musicals, folk music, and original compositions in a cabaret-style atmosphere. Free; tickets required. Tickets.princeton.edu.

DenTull, Full-Service Family Dentistry Offers Care For All Ages And Conditions

Ilike jokes!” says Dr. Janak Tull, DMD.

He goes on to relate this remark to his dental practice, and how it underscores his approach to his patients.

“I want to help people be able to laugh at a joke. If they haven’t been able to smile because of problems with their teeth, I want to help them to change that. Being able to express your emotions — laugh and smile — is so important. I want to help someone with something that is meaningful to their happiness and health.”

IT’S NEW To Us

Dr. Janak, as he is known, has been practicing for six years at DenTull Dentistry, which was opened at 214 North Harrison Street by his mother Dr. Lekha Tull, DDS in 1986. A highly skilled and experienced dentist in many areas, he is a favorite with his patients. Many are of long-standing, having started with his mother. Many others are new to DenTull, having recently discovered the practice.

Pain-Free

And while many are located in Princeton and the area, others come from farther away, One patient, who has had long-standing anxiety when faced with a visit to the dentist, drives an hour each way to see Dr. Janak.

“He provides the most pain-free, comfortable treatment I have ever had,” she explains. Her comment is representative of many other patients who while perhaps not exactly looking forward to a trip to the dentist, nevertheless do enjoy spending time with Dr. Janak.

A career in dentistry was something he expected to be in his future, from the time, as a boy, he watched his mother at work. Despite his love of art, talent as a painter, study of art history in college, and a B.A. degree in studio art, he knew he wanted to be a dentist. Helping his mother and watching her at work intensified his interest in dentistry, and ideally, he hoped to be able to incorporate his artistic skill into his work. As he states, “A work of art is a powerful thing!”

After graduation from college, he enrolled in the Midwestern School of Dental Medicine in Arizona, obtaining his DMD degree in Doctorate of Dental Medicine. There, he received extensive training in all aspects of oral healthcare, including dental restorations, oral surgery, and prosthodontics.

Before joining his mother at DenTull, Dr. Janak completed several postgraduate courses in dental implantology and laser dentistry.

The comfort of his patients has always been uppermost in his practice, and this includes bringing his personality and unique background into the office. The vibe at DenTull is very relaxed and laid back. Along with the state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, there is a comfortable office setting, cheerful decor, exam rooms with bright colors, and an overall welcoming tone.

The Whole Person Interaction with the patient on more than one level is his M. O. He takes a personalized approach, learning about his patient’s lifestyle and interests.

“I practice evidence-based holistic dentistry,” he explains. “That means I take into consideration the whole person. Many things affect the teeth, including diet, lifestyle, stress, etc.”

Helping to relieve dental anxiety definitely falls into that category, and he brings his “compassionate chair-side” manner to ease the patient’s concerns. As he says, “We know there are patients who really are afraid to go to the dentist. We do all we can to alleviate that stress. Also, people fear the unknown. When they understand the condition and the procedure, they are more comfortable.”

When he sees a patient for the first time, Dr. Janak performs a comprehensive examination. “It is very thorough,” he points out, “and includes full mouth X-rays, identifying existing restorations (crowns, fillings, bridges, etc.), identifying restorations that are breaking down and need to be replaced, evaluation of the gums, of the bone level, checking for oral cancer, and instruction about oral hygiene techniques.

“Helping patients to understand the importance of dental hygiene techniques is

the enamel. This can be used in conjunction with whitening.”

really more important than anything,” he emphasizes. “This is about prevention. It can include a power brush, flossing, and Water Pik. I help them understand how to do it properly.”

He believes so strongly in this that he regularly visits Princeton area schools, explaining about the importance of proper dental hygiene.

Same-Day

While his area of expertise is widespread, ranging from fillings and extractions to crowns, veneers, and bonding to implants clear aligners, TMJ, and sleep apnea treatments, crowns are a particular specialty.

“We have a CEREC milling machine on-site, allowing patients to receive sameday crowns,” he explains. “Not having to come back to continue the procedure is greatly appreciated by the patients.”

Implants and clear aligners have also become very important aspects of his practice. Implants can make a real different in someone’s life. A person may have a broken or missing tooth, and be self-conscious about it. An implant can help improve the individual’s selfconfidence and overall wellbeing.

“I do fully guided implant surgery,” explains Dr. Janak, “and this is unusual for a general dentist.”

Clear aligners are also becoming very important. The alignment of the teeth is a crucial factor, he points out. “When teeth are aligned properly, they will function properly. And improving the alignment is not just for kids, it’s for adults too. The SureSmile Company offers clear aligner therapy, similar to Invisalign, and we recommend it. It has a special device that helps tooth movement, and it shortens the treatment time.”

Sleep apnea is an increasing problem for many individuals. Caused by a blockage of the air passage while one is sleeping, it can interrupt breathing. After a test to determine if a patient has the condition and the level of severity, various treatments are available. Oral dental appliances, similar to orthodontic retainers or night guards, are one method, as is the Continuous Air Pressure (CPAP) machine.

Brighter Smile

TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder is another condition that Dr. Janak treats. Resulting from joint tension, teeth grinding and joint clenching, TMJ problems can involve pain and other unpleasant symptoms. Customized oral appliance therapy, such as a mouth guard, worn during sleep, can be helpful.

A brighter smile is always desirable, and many people are interested in teeth whitening these days. Dr. Janak offers in-office whitening procedures, and also suggests trying out an over-thecounter whitening product first to see whether there is sensitivity.

“I test everything on myself,” he reports, “and I recommend using Boka toothpaste, which helps to remineralize and strengthen

Patients should come in twice a year for check-ups and more often if they have is a serious condition. Dr. Janak’s patients are all ages, including the youngest children when they get their first teeth. “It’s important to make sure that they are coming in correctly,” he explains.

With new advances in dentistry all the time, continuing education is critical, he adds. “Online, study groups, and consulting with colleagues are all part of this. We need to keep up-to-date with the latest information and treatments in order to do our best for our patients.”

Dr. Janak is very proud to be carrying on the tradition his mother established. As he says, “I feel so amazingly lucky to build on what my mom began and continue what she started. She was always on the cutting edge, a pioneer in so many ways.

More To Learn

“Everyone has a dream of what they hope their life will be, what they want to accomplish, and no one is prepared for what they will actually have to do,” he continues. “But if you follow what you want to do, and if you’re in the right place, what you actually do can be even better than the dream. I have learned this.

“The challenge is finding the confidence to master your skills, but knowing that there is always more to learn. This is so important. I am always learning. I continue my education, so that I may help my patients even more.”

TIME FOR A CHECK-UP! “We are set apart as a boutique concierge dentistry. I am always accessible to patients. If someone has an emergency, I will be there for them. There is no middleman, no separation between me and my patients. For me, it’s all about the patients.” Dr. Janak Tull, DMD, of DenTull Dentistry, is a general and cosmetic dentist, who provides a full range of treatments and procedures for patients of all ages.

He adds that he feels very fortunate to be able to practice in Princeton where he grew up. “I want to give back to Princeton, and I look forward to building a foundation in the community, providing the highest level of dental care, while helping to elevate the hygiene of my patients, and ultimately helping them learn how to provide the best care for themselves.”

Remember, he adds, “Think of your teeth like a

car that you will have for your entire life. In the case of teeth, you get the permanent ‘car’ when you are eight years old, and you have to keep it in good working order forever.”

DenTull Dentistry works with all insurance companies, and is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For further information, call (609) 921-5171. Visit the website at www.dentull.com.

–Jean Stratton

88 Orchard Road | Skillman, NJ

Special all-levels Yoga class Saturday May 10 | 10-11:30am

Give the gift of Yoga:

“Two for one pricing” Bring a Mom, friend, or family member with you for free! Gift certificates also available.

S ports

Senior Bath Helps Key Superb Defensive Performance

As PU Men’s Lax Tops Yale in Tune-up for Ivy Tourney

As Michael Bath went through his Senior Day ceremony with the Princeton University men’s lacrosse team last Saturday afternoon, his thoughts turned to his first college campaign.

“Just being a freshman and having that senior class being such a great standard,” said star defender Bath, reflecting on his Tiger lax experience. “The seniors after that in my sophomore year and last year our senior class was amazing. We have tried to fill those shoes. We have a special group of seniors, all 11 of us are super close.”

This spring, Bath has looked to maintain that standard as he has filled the role of captain.

“It started my freshman year with those five captains and trying to replicate what they did,” said Bath, a 6’1, 200-pound native of Oakton, Va. “It is pretty easy when the path is already paved for you. It is like keep it going and take that one next step.”

As No. 2 Princeton hosted Yale last Saturday, it got things going early, jumping out to a 4-0 lead and never looking back on the way to an 18-7 win before a crowd of 1,352 at Class of 1952 Stadium.

“Our main focus this week was to start out hot because last week against Penn (a 12-8 win on April 19), we started pretty slow,” said Bath. “We wanted to throw the first punch this weekend and we did so.”

The Tigers, now 11-2

overall and 5-1 Ivy League, will be heading to Ithaca, N.Y. this weekend to play in the Ivy postseason tournament.

Princeton is seeded second and will face third-seeded Harvard in a semifinal contest on May 2 with the victor advancing to the final on May 4 against the winner of the semi between No. 1 Cornell and Yale. The winner of the tourney will receive the league’s automatic bid to the upcoming NCAA tournament.

In routing Yale as it tuned up for the Ivy tourney, the Tiger defense held the Bulldogs scoreless for a span of 30:26 from late in the first quarter until 1:59 remaining in the third.

“We have a great crew all of our poles can guard anyone in the country,” said Bath in assessing the defensive effort.

“We have got [Coli] Mulshine the best cover guy in the country and we have the best goalie in the country in [Ryan] Croddick. That is the backbone of the defense. Everybody else just does their job and things work out. Their offense is one of the most talented that we play. They have nine guys who can score at any given time so the main focus was doing our job and supporting each other.”

Bath has developed a special partnership on the back line with classmate and good friend Mulshine.

“It has been great, we don’t talk as much on the field as off of it,” said Bath, who scooped up three ground balls

and had two caused turnovers against Yale and now has 30 ground balls and a team-high 20 caused turnovers so far this season. “We spend a lot of time together, we are good buddies off the field so that helps with the chemistry on the field. We know that when one of us is down, we will lift the other one up and vice versa.”

Looking ahead to the Ivy semi clash against Harvard, Bath knows that the Tigers will have a tough time with the Crimson, who they edged 13-11 on March 22.

“That was a good game, similar to Yale,” said Bath. “They have seven-to-nine guys who can beat anyone. They have a great attack line, they are scoring a lot of goals. Coach [Jeremy] Hirsch always has a great game plan for these great offenses so if we stick to what he says, things work out.”

Princeton head coach Matt Madalon likes the work he has gotten from his senior group this season.

“It is a really cool senior class,” said Madalon. “They do such a good job of authentic leadership; it is not like in your face or abrasive. It is a very senior-led group. To be able to play this well and defend ’52 on Senior Day is awesome. Hopefully they keep this memory forever.”

Sophomore attacker Cole Burns was on fire in the early going against Yale assisting on two goals and scoring one in the early 4-0 Tiger run.

“They short-sticked him early and any time an attacker gets short-sticked early, he can take it a little personal,” said Madalon. “He really did a good job executing.”

The Princeton defense executed well as the Tigers built an 11-2 halftime lead.

“Holding them at two in the first half with one of them coming from a face-off goal that was a pretty good start for coach Hirsch’s group,” said Madalon, who got 19 saves on the day from goalie Croddick. “Croddick bailed us out in some of the moments where we didn’t play well which has been the story all season. He is pretty awesome.”

Madalon credited Bath with having some big moments against Yale.

“Michael was awesome, he is a leader and a captain,” said Madalon. “He takes the ball off guys. Every matchup he is on, they are super uncomfortable. He is a huge piece for us down there.”

Freshman midfielder Peter Buonanno is becoming a big piece for the Tiger offense. Coming off a three-goal effort in the win over Penn, Buonanno tallied a career-high four goals on Saturday.

“He is a really talented young guy, he came through the fall and battled injuries a little bit,” said Madalon. “Every day he gets better and finds his groove. We are really happy that he is playing good lacrosse right now.”

With 12 players getting on the scoresheet against the Bulldogs, Princeton is in a groove collectively.

The

now

Cornell-Yale

“That is what you pray for, just coming into the game we wanted to play three lines,” said Madalon. “We knew it could be a little warmer today and we are not used to the heat. That was important for us and those guys stepped up. We had great ball movement offensively so I think that is just everybody.”

Princeton will need to step up again in order to overcome a high-powered Harvard team in the Ivy semi.

“Harvard is a great team, it is one of the best offenses in the country,” said Madalon of the No 11 Crimson (10-3 overall, 4-2 Ivy). “We got them here midseason; both teams are different and probably better. That is going to be a really hard one.”

While Princeton is bringing a seven-game winning streak

Bright minds. Bold futures.

A Montessori Middle School powered by the International

the

into the postseason, Madalon knows that means nothing.

“That doesn’t matter, we are just trying to get the next one,” said Madalon. “We are trying to go upgrade season at this point, figure out where our deficiencies are, tighten them up and keep playing to our strengths as we try to get a full group healthy.” Bath and his teammates are determined to take things one game at a time.

“What we were saying this week is that complacency kills this time of year,” said Bath. “Our main focus is to not get complacent. Now it is win or go home. This is a special group of 51 guys. The goal is to end in a pile but it is one step at a time. It starts next week with Harvard in Ithaca.”

At Princeton Montessori School, our Middle School program (Grades 6–8) combines the best of Montessori principles with the globally recognized International Baccalaureate® (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) - empowering students to become original thinkers, confident communicators, and compassionate leaders in a complex world. Through hands-on, inquiry-based learning and interdisciplinary exploration, students develop the creativity, independence, and knowledge to shape their future with confidence. The IB framework deepens their understanding of global issues, promotes critical thinking, and nurtures a sense of purpose and agency—and is internationally recognized by high schools and colleges for its academic rigor and emphasis on global-mindedness and independent thought.

NOW ENROLLING 2025–26 school year Scholarships Available

487 Cherry Valley Road, Princeton • princetonmontessori.org

RSVP for Classroom Visit

MS Open Classroom Visit, May 19th, 9:00-10:30 am

HOT BATH: Princeton University men’s lacrosse player Michael Bath unloads the ball in recent action. Last Saturday, senior defender and team co-captain Bath scooped up three ground balls and had two caused turnovers as No 2. Princeton defeated Yale 18-7.
Tigers,
11-2 overall and 5-1 Ivy League, will be heading to Ithaca, N.Y. this weekend to play in the Ivy postseason tournament. Princeton is seeded second and will face third-seeded Harvard in a semifinal contest on May 2 with the victor advancing to the final on May 4 against
winner of the
semi. (Photo by Karla Donohue, provided courtesy of Princeton Athletics)

Former PU Football Star Offensive Lineman Travis

Headed to the NFL After Being Drafted by the Colts

Jalen Travis is headed to his third team in three years.

This isn’t a diatribe against the transfer portal, but rather a celebration of the former Princeton University offensive tackle’s rise to become the Tigers’ highest NFL Draft pick in the modern draft era. The Indianapolis Colts selected him with the 127th pick overall in the fourth round Saturday.

“It was incredible,” said Travis. “It was a dream come true.”

Travis graduated from Princeton in 2024, probably without as many snaps as NFL teams would like. The COVID-19 pandemic canceled his freshman season, he rotated on an impressive offensive line as a sophomore, started as a junior in 2022 and then missed almost half his senior season in 2023 due to injury.

That could have hurt his draft stock, but Travis still had a year of eligibility that he used as a graduate student at Iowa State. As an honorable mention All-Big 12 lineman, he showed he could play at a higher level and that helped garner more attention along with an impressive NFL Combine workout. His dedication all came together when he heard his name called.

“Grinding and identifying football as something that I love and want to pursue as a passion of mine, and then having the opportunity obviously to be part of the 1 percent to make it to the NFL, it’s a dream come true,” said Travis.

“Especially with an organization, Indianapolis, that takes care of their players and develops O linemen. It really ended up being the perfect situation.”

Travis was gathered with family at his uncle’s home 20 minutes from his Minneapolis hometown when he got a call from an unfamiliar number in Indianapolis. Five minutes ahead of the national revelation on TV, it was the Colts informing him that he was their next pick, a moment that he’ll never forget and one that he’s been reveling in since then.

“It was crazy,” said Travis. “Right after I got selected, we were on a Zoom call press conference with the team and the local reporters for around 15 minutes, but since then it’s been a giant

celebration, taking it in with family and friends and Princeton teammates who are out here celebrating the weekend with me, and obviously able to be around them and share it with them has been awesome, along with some of my folks from Iowa State came up. So it’s been awesome.”

The last Princeton player drafted was wide receiver Andrei Iosivas by the Cincinnati Bengals in the sixth round two years ago.

Another former Princeton receiver, Seth DeValve, was picked 138th overall in the fourth round by the Cleveland Browns back in 2016.

That had been the highest any former Tiger was picked, and pre-draft speculation had Travis slated anywhere from the fourth to sixth round.

“I think I was pretty confident,” said Travis. “The funny thing with the draft is that you have to manage expectations because it’s one giant game of poker, and teams are trying to hide this and throw out tendencies here and there so they can get the guys that they want. But I was confident, especially coming out of the interview process and the visits that I took that there was going to be a team out there that was willing to take a chance on me and draft me. And as for when and where, I just had to trust God that no matter what, it’ll end up working out.”

He joins a growing list of former Princeton players who have gotten a chance at the NFL. Blake Stenstrom, the Princeton quarterback in 2023, was invited to the Denver Broncos’ rookie minicamp. Travis has gotten advice from former Princeton teammates on how to handle himself to make a pro roster.

“I was actually just with Henry Byrd, who plays for the Vikings,” said Travis. “He played left tackle my junior year while I played right. He’s been reaching out just throughout this whole process. Andre with the Bengals has been pretty consistent as well. So these guys have been there all along the way and I anticipate they’re going to be there going forward as I try to figure it out.”

Travis isn’t the first from his family to play for the Colts. His cousin, Ross Travis, played tight end for the Colts from 2017-2019.

That’s the only previous tie to Indianapolis for Jalen Travis, who is a Midwestern product.

“I plan to talk to him going forward about his experience with the organization before he experienced some injuries,” said Travis. “He had a great experience with them.”

Ross Travis was a basketball player turned football player. One thing that made Jalen Travis so appealing to teams were his physical measurables. He stands 6’7 and weighs 339 pounds. He has an 83.5-inch wingspan, large hands and his 35-inch vertical jump and his 5.14-second clocking in the 40-yard dash was eye-opening for his size. On top of that, as a Princeton graduate, it was never a question of his ability to pick up schemes and concepts, which he’ll have to do once again. His recent experiences should be a help.

“I’m a big person when it comes to process; preparation for everything is key, especially when it comes to learning schemes,” said Travis.

“And that’s what I’m eager to get into in terms of learning how, whether it’s the way they approach protections, what their run philosophy is and stuff like that so I can again return to my process and what I had to do last year in transferring to Iowa State and how quickly I was able to pick that up within a relatively similar amount of time, starting there in June and having to play in August. I look forward to getting back to the drawing board and putting in the work to make sure that I’m ready to go come OTAs (Organized Team Activities) obviously, but more importantly, fall camp.”

OTAs will follow a mandatory rookie mini-camp that will send Travis off and running on his professional career. Between now and then, he plans to continue working out to stay as prepared as possible to impress.

“It’s time to earn your keep now,” said Travis.“So I’ll be just training, sleeping. And getting ready for mini-camp. And I’m excited for it, but just looking forward to staying locked in these next couple of weeks before I get into the facilities.”

As a drafted player, he has a slight edge in some ways than players who come in as undrafted free agents.

The Colts chose him for the chance to invest in him to improve their future.

“I do think it’s something that I’m going to learn here in the next year in terms of what that looks like,” said Travis. “But I do know, especially for guys that get drafted and just speaking for myself, that the organization truly believes in me and truly believes in my ability to come in and contribute and develop and get this team on track to make a playoff run towards the Super Bowl. And that’s why I’m going there and I know that’s the type of guys that they want in the organization. I’m just excited to be a part of it.”

The rookie camp and OTAs will give him a picture both of what the Colts like and what they want him to work on. It’s a steep learning curve for any rookie player.

“I do hope that’s something I can figure out along the way,” said Travis. “But I do know that their O line

coach is a big believer in me, as I’ve said in relatively regular contact with him over the past month and 1/2 after the combine and I know he’s a big fan of my game and believes that I can come in and help the team early. And that’s something I look forward to earning and competing for from day one. But I do know that overall they’re a fan of obviously my play, but more importantly, everything that I bring to an organization off the field as well.”

Travis was widely decorated for his off-field contributions to social justice causes over the past five years. He was awarded a Truman Scholarship toward graduate studies that he hopes to use some day to attend law school. He was the winner of the 2024 Coach Wooden Citizenship Cup. As a high school student, he founded the nonprofit The Just Action Coalition. He later interned for United States Senator Amy

Klobuchar, and was one of the 2022 recipients of the Leonard D. Schaeffer Fellowship in Government Service. He’ll look for opportunities now as a professional athlete.

“It’s definitely something I’m thinking about a little bit is making sure that I continue to find ways to execute on my beliefs and purpose outside of football,” said Travis. “And it’s something that I think all professional athletes have an obligation to do. And now having a chance to be in that space with this platform, I look forward to definitely continuing to give back whether it’s in communities that I’ve lived in, served in and been in before, whether it’s Princeton or Iowa State or back home in Minneapolis or branching out to different communities in Indianapolis to kind of lay my groundwork and get to work in terms of giving back in the way that I want to.”

Pennacchi & Sons Co.

Established in 1947

PICKED UP: Jalen Travis heads to the line during his career with the Princeton University football team. Star offensive lineman Travis ’24, who played for Iowa State last fall as a graduate transfer, was selected in the 2025 NFL Draft last Saturday by the Indianapolis Colts with the 127th pick overall in the fourth round. Travis is Princeton’s highest NFL Draft pick in the modern draft era. (Photo by Sideline Photos, provided courtesy of Princeton Athletics)

PU Sports Roundup

Princeton Softball Sweeps Penn, Earns Ivy Title

Taking care of business, the Princeton University softball team swept a threegame series from Penn last weekend in Philadelphia, Pa.

In action on Friday, Princeton swept a doubleheader, prevailing 3-1 and 6-5. On Sunday, the Tigers rolled to a 10-2 win as they improved to 22-15 overall and 15-3 Ivy League, clinching a share of the league regular season title in the

process. It is the program’s fourth straight Ivy title. Princeton will wrap up regular season action this weekend by playing a threegame series at Brown with a doubleheader on May 3 and a single game on May 4. The Tigers need one win against the Bears to clinch the outright league title and the right to host the upcoming Ivy postseason tournament which is slated for May 9-11.

PU Men’s Volleyball Falls to Penn State in EIVAs Nyherowo Omene starred in a losing cause as the Princeton University men’s volleyball team fell 3-0 to Penn State in the Eastern Intercollegiate Volleyball

Association (EIVA) final last Saturday at Dillon Gym.

Senior star Omene tallied a team-high 13 kills but it wasn’t enough as Penn State prevailed 25-20, 27-25, 25-19.

The Tigers finished their season with a 15-11 record.

PU Women’s Water Polo Edged in CWPA Final

Kate Mallery and Olivia Krotts each scored two goals as the No. 10 Princeton University women’s water polo team lost 10-8 in overtime to No. 15 Harvard last Sunday in the Collegiate Water Polo Association (CWPA) Championship final on Providence, R.I.

Krotts scored a goal with 2:01 left in regulation to

SOMETHING TO SHOUT ABOUT: Members of the Princeton University men’s golf team celebrate after they placed first at the Ivy League Championships last weekend at the Rolling Green Golf Club in Springfield, Pa. Junior star Riccardo Fantinelli led the way for the Tigers, placing first individually with a four-under score of 136 for the event that was shortened to two rounds due to high winds on Sunday. In the team standings, Princeton had a winning score of one-under 559 while Columbia finished second at 16-over-par, 576. It marked the 27th Ivy crown for the Tigers, who will find out their NCAA tournament assignment on April 30. (Photo provided courtesy of Princeton Athletics)

force overtime but the Tigers were unable to find the back of the net after that. Princeton ended the season with a 21-7 record.

Tiger Men’s Tennis

To Face St. John’s in NCAAs

After tying for second in the Ivy League standings, the Princeton University men’s tennis team learned its assignment last Monday for the upcoming NCAA tournament.

Princeton, 21-8 overall and 5-2 Ivy, was sent to Virginia Regional in Charlottesville, Va. where it will face St. John’s (25-2 overall) in an opening round contest on May3. The victor will face the winner of Virginia-Bucknell opening round matchup on May 4 in the Round of 32. Princeton Baseball Goes 0-3 at Yale

Unable to get its bats going, the Princeton University baseball team went 0-3 in a threegame series at Yale last Sunday and Monday in New Haven, Conn..

In a doubleheader on Sunday, the Tigers fell 15-1 and 9-2. A day later, Princeton lost 7-3.

The Tigers, now 10-29 overall and 6-11 Ivy League, end regular season action this weekend with a three-game series at Cornell, starting with a doubleheader in May 3 followed by a single game on May 4.

Tiger Women’s Open Crew

Edged by Tennessee

Competing against three non-conference foes last Saturday on Lake Carnegie, the Princeton University women’s open crew varsity eight placed second.

Tennessee took first with a winning time of 5:57.6 over the 2,000-meter course followed by Princeton at 6:01.1, Syracuse at 6:13.5 and Ohio State at 6:22.8.

The Tigers host Penn and Virginia on May 3 to wrap up regular season action.

PU Women’s Lightweights

Defeat Georgetown

Setting a new program course record, the No. 1 Princeton University women’s lightweight varsity eight defeated Georgetown last Saturday on Lake Carnegie on the race for the Class of 2006 Cup

The Tigers covered the course in 6:20.5 with the Hoyas coming in at 6:39.3.

Princeton is next in action when it competes in the Eastern Sprints on May 4 in Worcester, Mass.

PU Men’s Lightweight Crew Second in HYP Regatta

Coming up just short in the annual HYP regatta, Princeton placed second behind Harvard on Lake Carnegie last Saturday.

The Crimson had a winning time of 5:28.5 over the 2,000-meter course with Princeton taking second in 5:35.5 and Yale coming in third at 5:42.5.

The Tigers return to action when they compete in Eastern Sprints in Worcester, Mass. on May 18.

Tiger Men’s Heavyweights Win Carnegie Cup

Coming through in some tight racing, the No. 7 Princeton University men’s varsity eight topped No. 8 Yale and No. 15 Cornell in the race for the Carnegie Cup last Saturday.

Princeton clocked a winning time of 5:34.6 over the 2,000-meter course on the Housatonic River in Derby, Conn., to edge runner-up Yale (5:36.7) and third-place finisher Cornell (5:46.3).

The Tigers host Brown on May 3 in the race for the Content Cup.

Tiger Track Athletes Shine at Penn Relays

Competing in the storied Penn Relays last week at

Franklin Field in Philadelphia, Pa., Princeton University track athletes produced some superb performances.

Junior Casey Helm set a school record of 207’11 as he took gold in the college men’s discus championship. His heave broke the previous record of 205’11 set in 2022 by Robbie Otal.

As for the Tiger women, junior Shea Greene took second in the javelin with a best throw of 174’11 while junior Alexandra Kelly took third in the long jump with a top leap of 20’0.5 and junior Georgina Scoot placed fourth in the triple jump, recording a best mark of 40’6.75.

In upcoming action, Princeton hosts its annual Larry Ellis Invitational from May 2-3.

Princeton Women’s Golf Sent to NCAA Charlottesville Regional

After placing first in the Ivy League Championships earlier this month, the Princeton University women’s golf team will continue its season by competing at the NCAA Regional at the Birdwood Golf Course in Charlottesville, Va. from May 5-7.

The Tigers are the No. 10 seed in the regional, and will play in a 12team field with the top five teams advancing to the NCAA finals at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, Calif.

The Tigers are back in the NCAA Regionals for the first time since 2022 where Princeton finished sixth in the Stanford Regional for the program’s highest finish in a regional. The other team trips to Regionals came in 2001, 2004, 2005, 2017 and 2018.

CENTURY CLUB: Princeton University women’s lacrosse player Jami MacDonald heads upfield in recent action. Last Saturday, junior attacker MacDonald tallied three goals, including the 100th of her career, to help No. 5 Princeton defeat Dartmouth 15-11 win the outright Ivy League regular season title and the right to host the league’s postseason tournament this weekend. The Tigers, now 13-2 overall and 6-1 Ivy League, are seeded first in the Ivy tourney and will host fourth-seeded Brown in a semifinal contest in May 2 with victor advancing to the final on May 4.
(Photo by Frank Wojciechowski)

PHS Boys’ Tennis Takes 2nd in CVC Tournament,

Falling Just Short of Toppling Powerhouse WW/P-South

Earlier this month, the Princeton High boys’ tennis first doubles pair of Shaan Zaveri and Tacto Yamada suffered a straight-set defeat against WW/P-South in a regular season matchup.

Last Wednesday, the duo of Zaveri and Yamada were looking to turn the tables on South’s Rohan Ramachandran and Shriyan Kumar as the foes met in a rematch in the first doubles final of the Colonial Valley Conference (CVC) Tournament.

In the view of senior Zaveri, the pair needed to fight harder at the net to come through in round two against Ramachandran and Kumar.

“We were more aggressive, last time we were more passive and didn’t approach the net as much,” said Zaveri. “This time we were trying to put away our volleys because last time it was windy and we were super stressed. The best thing to do was be consistent and hype each other up.”

Displaying that aggressiveness, the PHS duo won first set 7-6, prevailing 9-7 in the tiebreaker.

“It was very tough we could have ended it at 7-5 but we still won,” said Yamada.“We

were resilient.”

After losing the second set 7-5, the PHS pair raised their game in the match tiebreak, winning 10-2 to earn the title.

“It was 2-5 in the second set and we were able to come back,” noted Yamada. “We had the momentum going into the tiebreak…so we just kept it going.”

Zaveri wasn’t surprised by the pair’s dominance in match tiebreak.

“Our coach (Sarah Hibbert) always says practice the tiebreaks and we are always with the second doubles team practicing the tiebreaks,” said Zaveri. “We were able to put away our volleys. Last time we could not put anything away so that was a key factor. I double-faulted a couple of times on my last service game in the second set so I wanted to get focused. It was really great crowd noise.”

As the tournament turned into a two-horse race between PHS and South with the rivals going head-to-head in four of the five finals and the third-place match, the win by Zaveri and Yamada helped turn the battle for the team title into a nailbiter. South, ranked No. 1 in the

state by NJ.com, ended up placing first in the inaugural CVC tourney by the narrowest of margins, 26.5-26.

(The Mercer County Tournament Association announced last spring that it was discontinuing county tournaments in favor of a CVC Tournament, which bars local private schools who are not members of the conference.)

Getting the win was special for Zaveri in his final campaign for PHS.

“We got third place last year,” said Zaveri, who teamed up with Yamada at second doubles in 2024. “Before with my old partner Nikita Medvedev we got third place. A win is such a rush, especially against a team we lost to 6-1, 6-1. It means a lot more.”

Yamada, for his part, saw the title as a confidence builder going forward.

“It us very huge for us,” said Yamada. “It is very encouraging for us moving into states.”

Teaming up for a second year has been a huge plus for the duo.

“I think we are more comfortable playing together from last year,” said Yamada.“We learned a lot from our mistakes and how we combine. It is just talking to each other and encouraging ourselves.”

26. (Photo by

Zaveri believes the pair is in a good groove. “We know all of our signals,” said Zaveri. “We have really practiced them a lot and it shows. We know where to go on the court and Tacto is really consistent. I appreciate that he has always got my back on the groundstrokes.”

PHS head coach Sarah Hibbert appreciated the way her squad played overall as it nearly toppled the Pirates. Tiger junior Andrew Kuo won second singles in a match tiebreak while junior Aashil Patel placed second at third singles and the pair of sophomore Emil Kapur and senior Matt Chen took second at second doubles and junior Garrett Mathewson finished fourth at first singles.

“Overall we had some great matches, making four finals and and a third place match first of all was a great showing,” said Hibbert. “Having all five through to the second day is a great thing. We had two solid performances in the finals, winning in tiebreaks in two of those positions against really solid teams. The two teams that didn’t pull it through in their flights worked really hard. Garrett fought really hard in the third place match, he was in a tough flight.”

The win by Zaveri and Yamada was a highlight for PHS.“They had lost to them in a lopsided match the last time but we all knew they were a much better team than that,” said Hibbert. “It was a combination of things in that match, the conditions were horrible and they just didn’t have a great day. Doubles is very up and down but today they were really able to play well. We always talk a lot about playing a lot of tiebreaks. I also say if you are getting into a tiebreak, it really counts and we have to be confident with them. They worked really hard, the tennis was amazing quality.”

In Hibbert’s view, the quality of play that PHS produced at the CVC should serve as a springboard for the upcoming New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) state team tournament.

“To be that close with them and show that we could take first and second singles and first doubles against them was great,” said Hibbert, whose team topped Hightstown 4-1 last Friday in regular season action to improve to 3-1 and has matches at Notre Dame on May 1 and WW/P-North on May 6. “Garrett won last time, lost today. First doubles lost last time, won today. Second doubles was close. Last year, we beat them 5-0 the first time and they beat us the second time. Hopefully we will be able to use the momentum from this to go forward and have some good matches the rest of the season.”

Zaveri, for his part, is looking to make the most of his final PHS season.

“This will be a big boost of confidence,” said Zaveri. “We have to stay focused. It is don’t shove this one away. We want to keep this one in the back of our minds and know that we can do it.”

Yamada believes that winning the CVC title shows that the pair can defeat anybody.

“I think we can just remember this moment and when we face a big team, we know we can do it and beat them as well,” said Yamada.

Utilizing Poetic Inspiration to Overcome

PHS Boys’ Tennis Star Kuo Wins CVC 2nd Singles Title

Wearing a black surgical mask and dealing with a nagging cough, Princeton High boys’ tennis player Andrew Kuo wasn’t sure he could make it through the second singles final last Wednesday afternoon at the Colonial Valley Conference (CVC) Tournament.

“It was a struggle at times, it was hard to breathe,” said junior star Kuo. “It was probably allergies mixed with a cold, the allergies probably made the symptoms worse.”

But as Kuo battled Prahalad Dharma of WW/PSouth at the Mercer County Tennis Complex, he relied on some literary inspiration to help him press on.

“I had this poem called Invictus r unning through my head the entire time,” said Kuo. “I know it sounds a bit corny but I found those words extremely powerful. It is just a case of controlling what you can control and ignoring what you can’t.”

Living up to the two final lines of the poem by Willam Ernest Henley, “I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul,” Kuo rallied to win 2-6, 6-4 (10-8).

Kuo’s heroics helped PHS take second as South edged the Tigers 26.5-26 in the event which was previously known as the Mercer County Tournament. (The Mercer County Tournament Association announced last spring that it was discontinuing county tournaments in favor of a Colonial Valley Conference Tournament, which bars local private schools who are not members of the CVC.)

In battling back from losing the first set, Kuo finetuned his serve and stayed in the moment.

“I felt that what I really needed to do was to get my serving under control,” said Kuo. “Not double-faulting was probably what got me into that game as well as giving absolute focus to the match. That was probably the most focused I have ever been.”

PHS head coach Sarah Hibbert credited Kuo with showing grit in pulling out the win.

“Andrew had an amazing showing today, he wasn’t even sure he was going to be able to play the final because he was having a hard time breathing and didn’t feel great,” said Hibbert. “Last year he had a second match of the day here that didn’t go as well as he wanted it to. He is a year older, a year more mature. He has been through it now and has really worked hard.”

Kuo’s more focused mental approach is a product of that maturity.

“He is an incredibly smart individual as well and he carries that over to the tennis court, he thinks through his matches,” added Hibbert of Kuo who lost to Dharma in match break in a regular season contest. “He plays smart tennis and he really fought hard today. He wanted it and made some really good shots. He didn’t let the foot fault calls and the point penalty get in his head which it very easily could have. He went to a tiebreak again like he did in our team match and it was nice that he was able to get the win today.”

For Kuo, who had previously won a MCT doubles title, winning a singles crown was a major breakthrough.

“This would be my first singles title,” said Kuo. “It means a lot, it was a struggle to get here. In the matches I had, my opponents gave me respect. I respect my opponents. That is what is most important about tennis.”

In reflecting on his run to the title, Kuo believes that approach set forth in Invictus proved to be an important factor in his success.

“I think it came down to mental fitness because before I wasn’t always very level-headed,” said Kuo. “How a game was going at the start would impact how I would play later but I feel like I have matured as a person. Even though my technique may not be on the level of my opponents and I might make some errors, I feel that ignoring that and powering through is what has made my game.”

DOUBLE PLAY: Princeton High boys’ tennis first doubles player Tacto Yamada hits a volley as partner Shaan Zaveri looks on last Wednesday in the final of the Colonial Valley Conference (CVC) Tournament. The pair of Yamada and Zaveri topped Rohan Ramachandran and Shriyan Kumar of WW/P-South 7-6, 5-7 (10-2) in the first doubles final. PHS ended up falling just short of the team title as WW/P-S piled up 26.5 points with the Tigers scoring
Frank Wojciechowski)

Looking to Make the Most of his Final Campaign, Senior Sarceno Swinging a

Nano Sarceno was looking to be a catalyst for the Princeton High baseball team as it hosted Hightstown last Thursday.

Batting third for PHS, senior Sarceno belted a double to left field in the bottom of the first inning and advanced to third base on an error.

“It was 0-2 and he hung me a slider and I just had to take advantage off it and drive it a long way which felt really good,”said Sarceno.”I thought that was going to give our team a lot of energy and someone would hopefully drive me in and give us a run to start us early.

Sarceno, though, was stranded on third and things went downhill from there for the Tigers as Hightstown built a 13-0 lead heading into the bottom of the third.

PHS did respond with five runs in the bottom of the

Hot Bat for PHS Baseball

frame but didn’t score again as the Rams prevailed 16-5 in five innings.

Sarceno contributed a runscoring single in the Tiger rally.

“That felt good, helping our team get on the board with the first run,” said Sarceno. “I thought that was going to start it up after that inning and we were going to come back. We needed a strong top half of the next inning but we just didn’t get that.”

As weather has warmed up, Sarceno has been swinging a hot bat.

“I had a really strong preseason but to start the season, I started off very slow,” said Sarceno, who was 3-for9 with a run and two RBIs in his last three games heading into last Thursday. “I kind of just got into my own head. I just feel way more confident in the box now. I am not worried

about what is going to happen or striking out.”

For Sarceno, a turning point came when he delivered a key hit in a 9-8 win over WW/PSouth on April 10.

“It was the bottom of the sixth inning, man on third, and I came up and drove a pitch to right field to give us the lead,” said Sarceno, who is now hitting .263 with five runs and four RBIs. “After that is really when I started to turn it around.”

Sarceno has been making a big contribution in the field for PHS as he has stepped in at catcher with Matt Akey currently sidelined by injury.

"It is a challenge and it is definitely difficult for the team because I am not the best catcher in the world,” said Sarceno, who started the season playing first base.

“I still have things that I have got to work on, I am picking it up a little bit. It is a little more challenging but I love it because it is a different point of view of the game. I am a part of it on every single play. I am more important to the team.”

As Sarceno heads down the stretch of his PHS career, he is focused enjoying the ride.

PHS head coach Dom Capuano didn’t have fun watching his pitching staff struggle in the loss to Hightstown.

“It is baseball, these things happen,” said Capuano. “I think we faced 37 batters and 19 of them were either walked or hit.”

“I am just trying to make the most out of it and just have fun while I am playing this great game that we play,” said Sarceno. “I am just trying to embrace everything and every moment. Even during this game where we were down big, I was still just trying to have fun. We are here to win games but we are also here to have fun.”

Capuano did like the way Tigers made things happen with their bats in the bottom of the third.

“That was good, the hitting was good today,” said Capuano.“Even at that point when we are on our sixth pitcher, it is tough. You are not going to dig yourself out. It was good to show that fight and come back.”

Sarceno’s recent hitting surge has been a plus for PHS. “Nano has been hitting a lot better if you take away the first couple of games,” said Capuano. “It was uncharacteristic of him to start off the season the way he did. He is coming along, he is doing what we thought he was going to do and what he was doing in the preseason. That is good to see.”

With PHS playing at Hamilton West on May 1, at Ewing on May 2, and at Montgomery on May 6, Capuano wants ro see some sharper play from his squad.

“Throw strikes, that is a start,” said Capuano, whose team lost 12-8 to Somerville last Monday to move to 6-7.

“This week, if we have been throwing strikes, we are not fielding well. We have to put it all back together and just move forward. I think in some ways losing 16-5 is better than than losing 5-4 because we can just wash this one away. It is what it is, we have got to have a good day of practice tomorrow and hopefully rebound.”

In Sarceno’s view, the Tigers need to show a sense of urgency to get back on the right track.

“Hopefully the boys can get it together, we need to do something,” said Sarceno. “We won four in a row and just lost three in a row. You can win games really quickly and you can lose games really quickly.”

NO QUIT: Princeton High baseball player Nano Sarceno takes a cut in game earlier this season. Last Thursday, senior standout Sarceno went 2-for-3 with a double and one RBI in a losing cause as PHS fell 16-5 to Hightstown. The Tigers, who lost 12-8 to Somerville last Monday to move to 6-7, play at Hamilton West on May 1, at Ewing on May 2, and at Montgomery on May 6.
(Photo by Frank Wojciechowski)
III Chairman
Lydia Fabbro-Keephart Partner
Jennifer Haythorn Partner
Maryanne Kannampuzha
Michelle Thompson

With Senior Star Peng Excelling at Third Singles, PDS Boys’ Tennis Places 7th in CVC Tournament

While Jaylen Peng has done some big things over the years for the Princeton Day School boys’ tennis team, he achieved a breakthrough last week at the Colonial Valley Conference (CVC) Tournament.

Senior Peng advanced to the semifinals at third singles and ended up taking third in the flight for his best-ever finish in the county competition as he defeated Tanush Mendhirata of Hightstown 6-3, 6-4 at the Mercer County Tennis Complex. (The Mercer County Tournament Association announced last spring that it was discontinuing county tournaments in favor of a CVC Tournament, which bars local private schools who are not members of the conference.)

PDS head coach Michael Augsberger credited Peng with adding a special line to his sparkling resume as his third-place showing helped the Panthers take seventh in the team standings at the event won by WW/P-South.

“Jaylen has had a lot of great memories at PDS, starting with clinching the Prep championship for us a couple of years ago,” said Augsberger. “He has been in the front row for a lot of the accomplishments we have had since I have been here. Those were on doubles in the Preps against the smaller schools now. He took his lumps at first singles and he was able to do it this year against the bigger schools at third singles.”

In making it to Wednesday, Peng pulled out a dramatic 3-6, 6-3, (10-5) win over James Zhang of

WW/P-North 3-6, 6-3, (10-5) in the quarterfinal round.

“It is a major accomplishment for him, especially closing out matches,” said Augsberger. “That is something he has really worked on over the four years in his time here at PDS. To get through a major pressure situation where he had to serve out both times that is a major accomplishments.”

Peng employed an aggressive approach to help him excel under pressure.

“I think that was a conscious decision from him, starting from when he was 3-0 down in the semifinal,” said Augsberger. “It started to be you have got to take risk or we are going to be packing up quickly. There was nothing to lose there and it carried forward into his second match. He picked the right time to be aggressive. He would slice to keep the ball low on approach when he needed to or he would move in and hit a huge forehand when it was proper to do that. That was a big change from him, starting around the midpoint of that second set in the semi and it worked out for him.”

Reflecting on his squad’s performance overall at the CVC tourney, Augsberger cited the play of sophomore Abhishek Srinivasan at second singles and the pair of junior Jacobo Garcia-Carillo and freshman Faizan Mohammad, at second doubles.

“We are proud of Abhishek who won his first round match,” said Augsberger. “He is in a tough spot, he is a young guy trying to play second singles

on defense and wiles in Mercer County. That is tough task, to a get win in a round and then have a good showing in the quarters against a really tough opponent. Second doubles won their first one so we are proud of these guys.”

The return of senior star Steven Li from injury has bolstered the Panther first doubles pair as he combined with junior Avi Saran at the CVC tourney.

“They ran into a tough draw, they lost to Princeton in the first round,” said Augsberger, noting that Li had been playing at singles before hurting his arm.

“It was a blow when we heard that Steven would be out for the season. It is huge to have someone of that caliber back who has won Preps at doubles when he was younger and to has that kind of experience, competitiveness and thoughtfulness as a leader.”

In Augsberger’s view, the experience gained by the Panthers at the CVC will benefit them over the rest of the season.

“We are lucky that we are in Mercer County, this is such a tough ask with outstanding players,” said Augsberger. “It is outstanding preparation for the Preps and the state tournament. Going through this, we have a better chance to win or do damage in preps and to make a good run in the state tournament. We are learning our lineup and the guys are getting experience. Guys like Jaylen are learning how to win tight matches and close it out. The level of competition is such you have to go deep in these other tournaments to find similar competition.”

Sparked by Nowakoski’s Production in the Midfield PDS Boys’ Lacrosse Making Progress after 0-3 Start

With the Princeton Day School boys’ lacrosse team bringing a three-game winning streak into its clash against Allentown last week, Hart Nowakoski and his teammates were primed to keep rolling.

“We were just trying to ride the same kind of confidence that we had off the Princeton High win and try to play the same way,” said PDS senior midfielder Nowakoski.

Despite being a little under the weather for the April 22 contest, Nowakoski scored two goals in the first half as the Panthers built a 5-2 lead.

“I was feeling confident, I came off of sickness yesterday so I was a little tired,” said Nowakoski. “I think in the first half, we had legs and we played with confidence.”

In the second half, the Redbirds got their legs under them, outscoring the Panthers 5-2 to force overtime and then winning the game 8-7 with a goal in the extra session.

“Lacrosse at times is just a game of runs,” said Nowakoski. “As soon as they got a little bit of a momentum swing with the penalty and a couple of goals. We kind of dropped our heads when we should not have.”

While the defeat stung, Nowakoski believes it could benefit the Panthers going forward.

“It is a good lesson to know for the rest of the season that we need to play 100 percent all of the time,” said Nowakoski. “We have what it takes to beat a lot of these teams so it is just play with confidence and poise.”

Nowakoski looks to display confidence and poise on the field as a battletested senior.

“I think it is important that I take more of a leadership role, being more vocal and commanding the offense when I can,” said Nowakoski, who has tallied 12 goals and eight assists so far this season. “It is also building confidence for the younger guys to play the right way and with confidence.”

With a new head coach, Sam Kosoff, leading the Panthers, Nowakoski believes that guys are getting on the same page with his approach.

“He has a positive attitude, he is willing to work with us,’ said Nowakoski of Kosoff. “I think it was telling that even though he kind of came in late in the year and we didn’t really get the ball rolling until right as the season was starting everyone bought in and listens to him.”

PDS head coach Kosoff likes the the progress he has seen from his players as the squad bounced back from a 0-3 start with the three-game winning streak.

“We were kind of shot out of a cannon, we didn’t have much practice as a team,” said Kosoff. “Spring break got into the way and then we faced three really organized opponents. Maybe we will get a chance to see those guys later. I don’t know if we are good enough to beat any of them but we could be much better. We have

been doing a lot more stick work. I hate spending practice time doing stick work but it has paid dividends on this end.”

That stickwork was on display as PDS jumped out to the 5-2 halftime lead.

“I liked the way we were spreading the field and running by guys and dodging and dumping,” said Kosoff. “Our defense was doing a great job.”

Kosoff acknowledged that PDS didn’t do a great job in the second half against Allentown.

“I think we got a little case of the yips, it seemed like we started getting tight,” said Kosoff. “We hammer them everyday about the fundamentals. My whole message the last three weeks has been keep it simple, have nice long possessions which we did in the first half. We just seemed to short circuit in the second half.”

In his postgame message, Kosoff implored his players to focus on offensive fundamentals.

“We have to learn from it and take a page out of Allentown’s playbook,” said Kosoff. “They stayed with it. Their offense started cutting freeing themselves up, getting away from pressure, moving the ball well. Our guys seemed to tighten up and drop the ball and throw balls at ankles and it went south.”

Kosoff credits Nowakoski with sparking the Panther offense.

“He is athletic and he goes hard,” said Kosoff of Nowakoski who is headed to Princeton University where he may play club sports. “He is a lacrosse-first kind of kid. He has a lot to learn but he is our most steady consistent guy on the offensive end.

Senior transfer Zach Meseroll emerged as an offensive threat, tallying a teamhigh 25 points on 16 goals and nine assists.

“Zach is new, he is trying to fit in and figure out what his role is,” said Kosoff. “I think he figured it out a little bit. He has done a good job of distributing and making good, clean, hard smart plays.”

The Panther defensive unit has been figuring out things as well

“Jake [Harrison] has been pretty steady in goal,” said Kosoff.“Our defense has embraced a zone; it has been a good alternative for us. Wyatt [Ewanchyna] is our best guy off the ground. He has been a second coach out there with things like a zone. Our two shortstick middies, Nick [Stivala] and Ethan [Mack], are both Steady Eddie stalwarts. They are not mistake free but they are consistent. They are reliable.”

With the Panthers, who lost 10-4 to the Hun School last Thursday to move to 3-5, playing in the Prep state quarterfinals on May 9, Kosoff is looking for his players to embrace each other.

“I would love to see us regroup and understand where we fell short today,” said Kosoff. “One thing I keep emphasizing with our guys is let the coaches be frustrated, you guys need to love on each other. There was a little chirping on the sidelines today. I tell them you guys should be saying hey buddy, I got your back, next play. Let us yell at you.” Nowakoski, for his part, is confident that the Panthers can come together down the stretch.

“I think we just need to get back and practice like we play,” said Nowakoski. “We need to work hard, continue to build confidence and not get on each other’s backs and play as a team.”

THIRD HAND: Princeton Day School boys’ tennis player Jaylen Peng hits a forehand as he competed in the Colonial Valley Conference Tournament last week. Senior Peng placed third at third singles to help PDS finish seventh in the team standings at the event. (Photo by Frank Wojciechowski)
SHOWING HART: Princeton Day School boys’ lacrosse player Hart Nowakoski races upfield in a 2024 game. Last week, senior midfielder Nowakoski scored two goals in a losing cause as PDS lost 8-7 in overtime to Allentown on April 22. The Panthers, who fell 10-4 to the Hun School last Thursday to move to 3-5, will be playing in the Prep state quarterfinals on May 9.

With Senior Ruf Emerging as Go-To Finisher, PDS Girls’ Lacrosse Gets on Winning Track

Shelby Ruf wasn’t the goto scorer for the Princeton Day School girls’ lacrosse last spring as a trio of senior stars led the way for the Panthers.

But with those three standouts, Tessa Caputo, Kelly Christie, and Jesse Hollander, having graduated, senior Ruf knew she had to take a leading role for the Panthers this spring.

“I think it is just setting an example for everybody,” said Ruf, a Merrimack College commit. “We have three freshmen on our attack so it is whatever I can do to be a role model for them and set them up. I want to score but anything I can do to get the win is really what we are focused on.”

Last Wednesday, Ruf set a very good example, tallying five goals and one assist as PDS pulled away to a 15-10 win over WW/P-North.

“I had my teammates connecting to me, just the support of everybody in this team is amazing,”said Ruf. “Once I get going, then everybody else gets going. It is like a chain.”

It took a while for the Panthers to get going against North as the teams were knotted at 1-1 late in the first quarter before PDS scored two goals in the last minute of the period.

“Momentum is huge is in lacrosse and for this team especially,” said Ruf. “I think we started a little slow but we were able to run it around right away. Once

we got our momentum, it changed the entire game.”

After a shaky third quarter that saw the Northern Knights draw to within 1210, PDS regained momentum as it scored three unanswered goals in the fourth.

“We let it slip away but we knew what we had to do,” said Ruf, who tallied a goal and an assist in the first four minutes of the final quarter.

“We took a second after the third quarter to take a deep breath and realized we were able to win this game. We were winning the entire game so I think it was just turning around. Getting a draw control was huge for us.”

With the Panthers building on the win over North by topping Peddie 13-9 on Friday and then defeating WW/P-South 11-4 last Monday to improve to 4-5, Ruf believes PDS has turned the tide after a 0-4 start this spring.

“We always say that we wish we could get those first two games back because we are a very young team,” said Ruf. “We have so much potential, we just needed a couple of games under us. We have two wins now and Peddie is hopefully another one. That is going to be a huge momentum shift in our season.”

Excelling on attack is giving Ruf momentum as she looks forward to starting her Merrimack career.

“I am so excited for Merrimack, 100 percent this

helps me,” said Ruf, who has scored a team-high 25 goals so far this season. “I was recruited as a defender but getting to play attack, I have the attack mindset and I can take that to defense next year. I could play anywhere next year. Also this is great conditioning, just getting as much lacrosse as I can under me.”

PDS head coach Lucia Marcozzi credits Ruf with making a great impact this spring.

“Shelby is our go-to player, she is our plus player,” said Marcozzi. “She is a great leader. People look to her, I look to her. She is just composed on the field. She is the ultimate competitor, she wants to compete every single time she is on the field. She is crushing it.”

The Panthers displayed some composure as they overcame the sluggish start against North to build a 9-4 halftime lead.

“That got us some momentum,” said Marcozzi of the two-goal outburst at the end of the first quarter.

“We have a great senior class and we are filling holes that we lost with the seniors last year and it takes time. We have great freshmen who are still learning to make their impact.”

One of those freshmen, Andrea Lenart, starred against the Northern Knights, tallying three goals and one assist.

“Andrea is fantastic, she makes a huge impact on the

Montgomery, NJ — Tucked away in the heart of Montgomery, Kasia Market is quickly becoming a beloved destination for food enthusiasts. More than just a place to shop, this unique market offers a food court that promises a flavorful and diverse dining experience, with an array of options ranging from sushi to Korean fried chicken, and innovative bubble teas.

At the center of the culinary experience is the “Sushi Station,” a must-visit spot for sushi lovers. Guests can enjoy restaurant-quality sushi at an affordable price, with expertly crafted rolls designed to satisfy both seasoned sushi aficionados and newcomers alike. For those seeking something a bit different, “Kasia Kitchen” serves up a variety

field,” said Marcozzi. “She knows lacrosse, she has a great lacrosse IQ. She is just getting up to that varsity level. I think once we get her there, it is going to be a total game changer.”

Another young player, sophomore Ava Fairbanks, has raised her game.

“From her freshmen year to her sophomore year, she made a huge jump in just discipline and knowing what to do with the ball,” said Marcozzi of Fairbanks who has a team-high 32 points on 19 goals and 13 assists. “Every time you have out, doesn’t mean you have to shoot. It is knowing how to use your teammates and I think she has made a really big leap in that sense.”

In the win over North, the PDS defense showed good discipline.

“We prepared a lot with our defense, knowing that they had an awesome player,” said Marcozzi. “That girl Ginny [Choi] is great so it was just preparing and knowing what she is going to do every time. We have two great senior leaders, Cass [Salas] and Eliza [Bailey], on defense. They are great at just controlling everyone and then we have Grace [Ulrich] in goal.”

With the Panthers hosting Notre Dame on April 30 before playing at St. Elizabeth in a Prep B state quarterfinal contest on May 6, Marcozzi is confident that her squad is headed in the right direction.

“This is the momentum that we needed, we just have to keep it rolling,” said Marcozzi. “Possession is key. We are young

on our attacking end so we are really excited when we get the ball. We don’t always have the most disciplined decisions with possession in our end. The longer we have the ball, the longer the other team doesn’t. It is having that mindset the entire time.”

Ruf, for her part, is excited about what PDS can do down the stretch.

“I think it is just take it one game at a time and knowing what we have to do coming into every game and executing,” said Ruf. “That is what we are going to work on.”

–Bill Alden

of traditional Korean dishes. First-time visitors are invited to sample from the hot line, making it easy to find the perfect dish to match any taste.

But the adventure doesn’t stop at sushi and Korean staples. For those in the mood for something modern and exciting, “The Hungry Tiger” delivers with its famous Halal Korean fried chicken — crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor. To complete the experience, try one of their signature bubble teas, such as the bold Dalgona, sweet corn, or creamy Ube flavors, offering a refreshing and unique twist to your meal.

For dessert lovers, Kasia Market has something special. Bingsu, a Korean-style shaved ice dessert, is a cooling and sweet treat perfect for any season. Alternatively, indulge in the Banana Pudding Matcha Latte — or the MaBa Latte as it’s affectionately known — combining the best of banana pudding and matcha in one deliciously memorable drink.

The food court also offers a

seating area, where diners can sit back and enjoy their meals at their own pace. Whether you’re here for a quick bite or a relaxed dining experience, Kasia Market provides a comfortable and vibrant setting to explore its diverse culinary offerings. With its blend of traditional flavors and modern twists, Kasia Market is a must-visit destination in Montgomery for food lovers of all kinds. Whether you’re looking to indulge in sushi, Korean fried chicken, or something sweet to end your meal, Kasia Market has something for everyone.

Next time you’re in the area, be sure to stop by and experience the unique culinary adventure that is Kasia Market!

RUF RIDER: Princeton Day School girls’ lacrosse player Shelby Ruf heads to goal last Friday against Peddie. Senior attacker and Merrimack College commit Ruf tallied two goals and one assist in the game as PDS prevailed 13-9. The Panthers, who defeated WW/P-South 11-4 last Monday in improving to 4-5, host Notre Dame on April 30 before playing at St. Elizabeth in a Prep B state quarterfinal contest on May 6.
(Photo by Frank Wojciechowski)

Lawrenceville

Baseball : Sparked by Anthony Woo’s hitting, Lawrenceville edged Lawrence High 2-1 last Saturday. Woo went 3-for-3 with two RBIs as the Big Red improved to 4-8. Lawrenceville plays at the Blair Academy on May 1, hosts the Mercersburg Academy (Pa.) for a doubleheader on May 3 and then plays at Peddie on May 6.

Girls’ Lacrosse : Lexie Koch triggered the offense as Lawrenceville defeated Pennington 21-8 last Thursday. Koch’s scored five goals for the Big Red who improved to 8-3. Lawrenceville hosts Peddie on May 1 and Mercersburg Academy (Pa.) on May 3.

Hun

Baseball : John Rossman had a big day with the bat as Hun defeated Immaculata 5-0 last Saturday. Rossman went 2-for-3 with a double, one run, and two RBIs to help power the Raiders to the win. Hun, who fell 7-3 to Seton Hall Prep last Monday to move to 10-4, host Peddie on May 1, Blair on May 3, and Pennington on May 5.

Boys’ Lacrosse : Producing a superb defensive effort, Hun defeated Pennington 12-1 last Monday. The Raiders, who improved to 3-10 with the win, are slated to play at Lawrenceville on April 30 and host Oratory Prep on May 1 in the opening round of the Prep state tournament before playing at the Perkiomen School (Pa.) on May 3 and hosting Princeton High on May 6.

Girls’ Lacrosse : Struggling to get its attack going, Hun fell 9-3 to the Blair Academy last Saturday. The Raiders, who moved to 0-11 with the defeat, will play Stuart Country Day on April 30 at Rider University before hosting Mount St. Mary Academy in May 3 and the Wilberforce School on May 5.

Pennington

Baseball : Caden Burns starred as Pennington defeated Blair 8-6 last Saturday. Burns got the win on the mound and went 2-for-3 and two RBIs at the plate for the Red Hawks, now 12-2. Pennington hosts WW/PSouth on April 30 before playing at Hopewell Valley on May 3 and at the Hun School on May 5.

Boys’ Lacrosse : Unable to get its offense going, Pennington lost 12-1 to Hun last Monday. The Red Hawks, who dropped to 4-8 with the defeat, host the Hill School (Pa.) on April 30.

Baseball: Keegan Fullman, Luke Haan, and Vince Filis each had two hits and one RBI but it wasn’t enough as PDS fell 6-5 to WW/P-South last Monday. The Panthers who moved to 3-11 with the defeat, play at Hightstown on April 30, at Bound Brook on May 3, and at Nottingham on May 5.

PHS PDS

Softball : Unable to get its bats going, PHS fell 13-0 to Robbinsville last Thursday. The Tigers managed just three hits in dropping to 2-6. PHS hosts Steinert on May 1, plays at Phillipsburg on May 3 and then hosts Ewing on May 6.

Boys’ Lacrosse : Earning its third straight win, PHS defeated WW/P-North 13-1 last Saturday. The Tigers, who improved to 7-4 with the victory, host Robbinsville on May 1, play at Allentown on May 3, and at the Hun School on May 6.

Girls’ Lacrosse : Nicki Lee and Leah Bornstein each tallied one goal and one assist but it wasn’t

SWING TIME: Hun School softball player Kailey Jacobs follows through on a swing in recent action. Last Saturday, senior shortstop Jacobs went 1-for-3 with one RBI to help Hun defeat Lawrence High 6-0. The Raiders, who improved to 10-1 with the victory, are slated to play at the Hill School (Pa.) on May 1 and the Blair Academy on May 3. (Photo by Frank Wojciechowski)

10am-6pm; Sat 8:30am-3:30pm

300 HITTER: Stuart County Day lacrosse player Allison Lee (holding sign) celebrates with her teammates last Monday after she scored the 300th goal in her Tartan

Senior star

fielder and Williams College commit Lee tallied five goals and one assist in the game as Stuart fell 16-8 to Steinert. The Tartans, now 2-6, face Hun on April 30 at Rider University, play at Morristown-Beard on May 5 in the first round of the Prep B state tournament, and then host Pennington on May 6.

enough as PHS fell 11-4 to Allentown last Friday. The Tigers, now 7-4, play at Robbinsville on April 30, hosts Northern Burlington on May 2, and then plays at Monroe on May 3.

Boys’ Golf : Walter Gumbinger starred as PHS edged Princeton Day School 157160 on April 22. Gumbinger fired a one-under 35 for the nine-hole match to help the Tigers improve to 8-0. PHS will be competing in the Colonial Valley Conference (CVC) Tournament on May 1 at Mercer Oaks West.

Girls’ Golf : Led by Kyuyoung Chung, PHS defeated Allentown 190-207 last Monday. Chung carded a four-over 40 for the ninehole match as the Tigers moved to 7-1. PHS will be playing in the Colonial

Local Sports

1st-Ever Princeton Triathlon

Scheduled for June 7

The first-ever Princeton Triathlon is being held on June 7 and will include a super sprint triathlon, super sprint triathlon relay, duathlon, and aquabike which are for all ages 13-and-above along with a youth triathlon event for those ages 7-12.

All events start and finish at the Community Park Pool at 380 Witherspoon Street in Princeton with primary parking at the

All participants will receive a shirt upon checking in on race day along with a medal upon finishing.

Beneficiaries of the event are Dare2Tri (national nonprofit organization that aids

career.
mid-

Obituaries

Carl Herbert Haag

Carl Herbert Haag died peacefully at home on April 23, 2025. He would want you to know that he was 71 days shy of turning 97 years old. He was a traveler, collector, loyal friend, and family man, and fascinated by the world and people around him. He is remembered as being intelligent, kind, generous, humorous, creative, quirky and caring of everyone he met. He was known for having a prodigious memory of people, places, food, and factoids of every imaginable kind. He is survived by his wife Carol, children Cindy and Ken, daughter-in-law Nikki, and grandchildren Elia and Grace.

Carl was born July 3, 1928 in Cleveland, Ohio. He was the only child of Anna and Albert Haag. He explored the city and the surrounding area with his mother and his childhood friend Herb Field. He and Herb spent a summer with a Mennonite family in Virginia that was a treasured

memory. One of his delights as a child was becoming a magician. His mother and he were avid bicyclers, staying in a youth hostel at an early age. Later he led cycling trips with Canadian Youth Hostel in Canada and Europe. Much later he took his wife and children on a cycling trip through the Canadian Rockies.

Carl was a bright child and attended accelerated classes in junior high. Following graduation from high school he enrolled in the US army knowing that the GI bill would help him go to college. Following WWII he was sent to Japan in the Quarter Master Corp and loved exploring the country and learning about the culture. There he searched through college catalogues A-Z and stopped at Antioch College. He graduated from Antioch College in 1952 after studying philosophy. Antioch was a significant influence on his life, and he took seriously Horace Mann’s challenge to “win some victory for humanity” before he died.

Following a short stint in the admissions office at Case Tech, he went to the University of Michigan achieving a PhD in Educational Psychology. He stayed on at U of M teaching some very creative and engaging courses to emerging high school teachers. In his desire to share the story of his creation of a fictious student from the days of working at Case Tech he responded to a job offer at Educational Testing Service (ETS) in Princeton, NJ. He was so intrigued with the Advanced Placement Program that he left Michigan and took the job. And the rest is history! He worked as the

Director of the AP program for 27 years.

ETS brought many good things into Carl’s life including his wife Alice Carol Schwartz. He saw her in a play as Mommy in the “American Dream” and thought she was dreadful, but when they took a walk at ETS and he saw her take her shoes off in the mud he fell in love with her. They were married on his birthday in 1965 at the Unitarian Church and made their life in Princeton for the next 60 years. They built a house in the woods and raised their two children in that house. Cindy Lara was born on New Year’s Day in 1968 and Kenneth Alan was born November 8, 1970. Carl created a magical, loving environment for them to grow up in. Long before he died Carl wrote a note for his family to find saying: “You were the best things in my life and I loved you deeply.”

Carl was an avid photographer and his kids often remembered him with a camera in front of his face. His photography was his art and he was very skillful at capturing his life experiences through photographic images starting from an early age. He enjoyed photographing people and the natural world while camping, at every family occasion and throughout his many travels around the world. He loved to share his photographs with friends and family.

Unitarian/Universalism was very important to Carl, coming from a non-religious background. He was engaged at local, district and continental levels. As a member of the congregation, he served in many ways including being

We

We pride ourselves on being a

the president of the church, committee member, teacher, historian, library creator and welcomer. He was elected president of the Metro NY District and served continentally on the ministerial fellowship committee. He was instrumental as a board member of the Universalist Retreat Center Murray Grove, saving 200 acres of New Jersey shoreland. Growing out of his UU experience he also helped create and lead a men’s group that lasted for decades and continues on.

Carl was an avid collector and was fascinated by tools and antiques. He had all sorts of fun collections including old coins from many countries, candle molds, apple peelers and cherry pitters, stamps, postcards, saws, copper and brass scales and lanterns.

Traveling was one of Carl’s favorite activities. As he said he traveled to three corners of the world. He loved camping, canal barges, home exchanges, cruises and bicycle trips. He enjoyed and excelled in planning all the details of the trips.

We raise a glass of glögg to an amazing human. Those who knew him know that he was genuinely interested in the world and all the people in it and possessed a palpable joy for life. He valued relationships and was a great listener, asking engaging questions to draw someone out and learn about them. Carl’s creative way of seeing the world made him a great story-teller, talented historian and playful companion. He cared about the environment and social issues. He was a deeply loyal and caring friend, father and husband. Carl was a gentle, loving soul who made an indelible impression on the earth and will be deeply honored and missed.

There will be a memorial service later this summer at the Unitarian Church of Princeton. Send inquiries to: susan@uuprinceton.org.

Dr. Marcia E. Bossart, Ed.D.

from Montclair State College and a Doctor of Education from Seton Hall University, she devoted 35 years to shaping young minds and strengthening schools across New Jersey. Her expertise in curriculum design and educational administration was matched only by her unwavering commitment to students and educators alike. Beginning as a high school teacher, she rose through the ranks to become a building administrator, Director of Education, and ultimately Superintendent of Schools for Glen Ridge Public Schools and Princeton Regional Schools. Her passion for teaching extended to the college level, where she inspired future educators as an adjunct instructor at Caldwell College and Seton Hall University. She also shared her wisdom as an educational consultant, always striving to improve learning environments.

Marcia’s love for her community was as vibrant as her love for education. She served with grace and enthusiasm on the boards of the The Princeton Festival and The Princeton Symphony Orchestra as well as the Steinway Society of Greater Princeton, enriching the cultural life of the town she cherished. She was a cherished member of The Present Day Club, The Old Guard of Princeton, and the Rotary Club of Princeton, where she served as a past president, leaving a lasting legacy of service and friendship. Her commitment extended to the YMCA Board of Directors and as a trustee of the Princeton Nursery School. A devoted member of the Nassau Club, Marcia could often be found there with dear friends, planning their next adventure—always seeking new experiences and connections.

A lifelong lover of music, Marcia had a special passion for opera, theater, and the arts, which brought joy and inspiration to her life. She also treasured reading and travel, embracing the world with open arms and a curious spirit.

Marcia Bossart’s legacy is one of dedication, kindness, and an enduring passion for education and community— a life well-lived.

Sydney Shaffer Taggart

1932 - 2024

Sydney S. Taggart, age 92, passed away on November 15, 2024 in Princeton, NJ. Born on June 7, 1932 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the daughter of Dr. Ward and Marion Shaffer, she was a lifelong environmentalist and gardener, and became an active Garden Club of America horticulture judge. Sydney graduated from Nichols Hills Grade School, Harding Junior High, and Classen High School, Class of 1950. She attended all of the major reunions and said, “I always had a ball.” She attended the University of Oklahoma where she became a Kappa Kappa Gamma. Sydney was Queen of the Corps at New Mexico Military Institute in 1950, Queen of the Oklahoma City Beaux Arts Ball in 1955, and was a member of the Junior League.

In 1955, Sydney married Charles Lutz Taggart, also of Oklahoma City. They moved to Princeton, NJ, in 1959 where they lived for 25 years. Sydney was active in the Princeton community, as Vice Chair of the Princeton Planning Board, and Chair of the Princeton Borough Traffic Safety Committee. She was also an active member of the Garden Club of Princeton, and actively volunteered for many local causes, including the Hospital Fete supporting Princeton Hospital.

Marcia was predeceased by her beloved husband, David, in 1998. She is survived by her daughter and son-inlaw, Beth and Steven Milke of Florida; her cherished grandchildren, Heather Milke of New York, NY, and Miles Milke of Philadelphia, PA; and her sister, Joanne Hobin of Florida.

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

available to you.

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

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

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

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

personal, and service oriented family business. With five generations of experience, we are here to help guide you through the difficult process of monument selection. We encourage you to make an appointment, with no obligation, to discuss the many options available to you. ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

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

PERFECT MEMORIAL

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

Dr. Marcia E. Bossart, Ed.D., a beloved educator, passionate community leader, and lifelong advocate for learning, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2025, in Princeton, NJ, at the age of 83.

After Princeton, the Taggarts lived in Dedham, MA, Dallas, TX and Worcester, MA, before settling in Wakefield, RI. In Wakefield, she found her paradise on 4 acres on a hill overlooking protected farm fields and forests, the Willow Dell Beach Club, Block Island, and Point Judith Harbor, where Sydney kept track of the time of day, with the comings and goings of the Block Island Ferry. She was active in the South County Garden Club, the Kingston Book Club, Courthouse Center of the Arts, and Willow Dell Historical Association.

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

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

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

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

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

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

help guide you through the difficult process of monument selection.

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

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

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

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

We encourage you

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

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

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

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

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

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

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

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

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

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

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

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

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

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

ITS EASIER THAN

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE

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

ITS EASIER THAN YOU THINK TO MAKE THE PERFECT MEMORIAL

Born and raised Marblehead, MA, Marcia’s journey of curiosity and pursuit of excellence began early. She graduated from Connecticut College in New London, Connecticut, where she met her devoted husband, David. They married in 1963 and, after a brief time in Connecticut, made New Jersey their home—living in Cedar Grove and Verona before settling in Princeton, Marcia’s home for over three decades.

Marcia’s dedication to education was profound and far-reaching. Holding a master’s degree in English

A private burial is planned. Memorial donations be made to The Princeton Symphony Orchestra, continuing Marcia’s lifelong support of the arts. Marcia was involved with and supported each of their major programs, namely the Princeton Symphony Orchestra, The Princeton Festival, and their education programs: PSO BRAVO!. Gifts to the PSO can be designated for General Operations, or for one of these programs.

Princeton Symphony Orchestra, PO Box 250, Princeton, NJ 08542, princetonsymphony.org/ support/donate.

Arrangements are under the care of Mather Hodge Funeral Home.

Sydney and Charlie spent the last 15 years as residents of Stonebridge at Montgomery, in Rocky Hill, NJ. It became their home, and she remained active as Editor of the Stonebridge Monthly Newsletter and writing over 50 memoirs documenting her and Charlie’s family history.

Sydney is survived by her three sons Peter (Judy), Denver, CO, Ward (Rebecca), Las Vegas, NV, and Carl (Kim), Wayne, PA; 7 grandchildren; and her sister Mrs. Robert M. Rainey III (Rob) of Tulsa, OK.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Sydney Taggart will be held Saturday, May 3 at 11 a.m., at Stonebridge at Montgomery.

Town Topics CLASSIFIEDS

YARD SALE + TOWN TOPICS CLASSIFIED = GREAT WEEKEND!

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

DEADLINE: Tues before 12 noon tf

HOUSECLEANING: Experienced, English-speaking, great references, reliable with own transportation. Weekly & bi-weekly cleaning. Green cleaning available. Call Susan at (732) 873-3168. 05-28

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

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

JOE’S LANDSCAPING INC. OF PRINCETON Property Maintenance and Specialty Jobs

Commercial/Residential Over 45 Years of Experience

• Fully Insured • Free Consultations

Email: joeslandscapingprinceton@ gmail.com Text (only): (609) 356-9201 Office: (609) 216-7936 Princeton References • Green Company HIC #13VH07549500 tf HOME REPAIR SPECIALIST: Interior/exterior repairs, carpentry, trim, rotted wood, power washing, painting, deck work, sheet rock/ spackle, gutter & roofing repairs. Punch list is my specialty. 40 years experience. Licensed & insured. Call Creative Woodcraft (609) 586-2130 tf 24/7 PROFESSIONAL

NURSES AND AIDES

Personal care, nutrition, social activities, support, respite care & family relief. Live-in

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. 04-30

ABG CLEANING CO. Leave the cleaning to us! 20 years experience Good references Call us for a free estimate! (609) 651-2259 or (609) 955-1239 05-07

THE MAID PROFESSIONALS: Leslie & Nora, cleaning experts. Residential & commercial. Free estimates. References upon request. (609) 2182279 or (609) 323-7404. 06-25

LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO FIX MY CHAIR. I have the caning. (609) 924-9483. 04-30

BUYING: Antiques, paintings, Oriental rugs, coins, clocks, furniture, old toys, military, books, cameras, silver, costume & fine jewelry. Guitars & musical instruments. I buy single items to entire estates. Free appraisals. (609) 306-0613. tf

TOWN TOPICS CLASSIFIEDS 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. tf

WE BUY CARS

Belle Mead Garage (908) 359-8131 Ask for Chris tf WHAT’S A GREAT GIFT FOR A FORMER PRINCETONIAN? A Gift Subscription!

Call (609) 924-2200, ext 10 circulation@towntopics.com tf

YARD SALE + TOWN TOPICS CLASSIFIED = GREAT WEEKEND! Put an ad in the TOWN TOPICS to let everyone know! Call (609) 924-2200 ext. 10; classifieds@towntopics.com

DEADLINE: Tues before 12 noon tf

HOUSECLEANING: Experienced, English-speaking, great references, reliable with own transportation. Weekly & bi-weekly cleaning. Green cleaning available. Call Susan at (732) 873-3168. 05-28

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

Legal Notice:

Take notice that in accordance with NJSA 39:10-16*, application has been made to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Trenton, New Jersey, to receive title paper authorizing the issuance of a New Jersey Certificate of Ownership for the following vehicle.

Make: Bee trailer Year: 1993

VIN/HULL Identification number: 1B910HE91N1277081

Objections, if any, should be made in writing to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Special Title Unit, PO Box 017, Trenton, New Jersey, 08666-0017.

Franklin Twp Fire District 4 - Kingston 2025 Meetings

In-person at the Parish House, Kingston Presbyterian Church, 4565 Route 27 at 6:45 pm

Google Meet: meet.google.com/min-ukvm-vir

May 20, Regular Meeting

June 17, Regular Meeting

July 15, Regular Meeting NO MEETING IN AUGUST **

September 16, Regular Meeting

October 21, Regular Meeting

November 18, Regular Meeting

December 16, Regular Meeting with Budget Approval

January 13, 2026, with Budget Adoption February 21, 2026, Annual Election February 24, 2026, Regular Meeting

As you near the finish line in buying a home, the final walkthrough is your last chance to ensure everything is in order before closing. Typically occurring 1 to 12 hours before settlement, this walkthrough is not an inspection but a verification.

You’ll confirm that agreed upon repairs have been completed, no new damage has occurred, and the property is in the condition promised in the contract. Fixtures and appliances that were to remain should still be present and operational. If anything is amiss like unexpected damage, missing items, or incomplete repairs notify your agent immediately. Issues can delay closing or require negotiation for seller concessions.

Come prepared with your contract, inspection report, and a checklist. Though quick, this final step is crucial for peace of mind and protecting your investment. After all, once you sign the paperwork, the home and its condition becomes entirely yours.

Introducing: 15 Leonard Court Princeton, NJ | $3,500,000

Sarah Strong Drake: 908.229.4260 callawayhenderson.com/id/CL7M6S

Introducing: 83 Pettit Place Princeton, NJ | $2,698,000

Barbara Blackwell: 609.915.5000 callawayhenderson.com/id/FMV7QD

Introducing: 81 Pheasant Hill Road Princeton, NJ | $2,000,000

Madolyn Greve: 609.462.2505 callawayhenderson.com/id/D5L5M3

Introducing: 43 McComb Road

Princeton, NJ | $995,000

Aniko Molnar-Szakolczai: 609.651.1840 callawayhenderson.com/id/XYDWYQ

Introducing: 4565 Province Line Road Princeton, NJ | $3,490,000 Princeton Office: 609.921.1050 callawayhenderson.com/id/HK4MVH

Introducing: 51 Edgerstoune Road Princeton, NJ | $2,695,000 Princeton Office: 609.921.1050 callawayhenderson.com/id/VDHNKQ

Introducing: 348 Cherry Valley Road Princeton, NJ | $1,995,000

Barbara Blackwell: 609.915.5000 callawayhenderson.com/id/YVJJSH

Introducing: 498 Rosedale Road Princeton, NJ | $995,000

Jane Henderson Kenyon: 609.828.1450 callawayhenderson.com/id/WRLGDT

Introducing: 99 Ridgeview Road Princeton, NJ | $2,850,000 Alana Lutkowski: 908.227.6269 callawayhenderson.com/id/G94LTF

Introducing: 36 Brearly Road Princeton, NJ | $2,250,000

Susan Hughes: 609.213.5556 callawayhenderson.com/id/MFSHC8

Introducing: 39 Florence Lane Princeton, NJ | $1,395,000

Jane Henderson Kenyon: 609.828.1450 callawayhenderson.com/id/9LQEXP

Introducing: 37 Constitution Hill West Princeton, NJ | $899,000

Robin McCarthy Froehlich: 609.731.4498 callawayhenderson.com/id/L564TJ

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.
Town Topics Newspaper, April 30, 2025 by Witherspoon Media Group - Issuu