LANGUAGE OF LAUGHTER: “I hope I have created a universal platform. Laughter is a bond for everyone. It’s a bridge to others.” Actress, comedienne, and teacher Susanna Spies, president and founder of Comedy Playground, is offering a week-long Comedy Camp for kids in August.

Helping kids find their voice through stand-up comedy is the goal of comedienne, actress, and drama teacher Susanna Spies.

The Princeton native, graduate of Littlebrook School and Princeton High School, will be back in her home town the week of August 19-23 to launch her Comedy Playground Summer Camp for kids and interested adults.

“With stand-up, I think you can show your own view of the world,” says Ms. Spies, president and founder of Comedy Playground. “I try to help students be comfortable with their own voice. They get to use real experiences, personal material, whatever is on their mind.”

An actress and stand-up comedienne, Ms. Spies has performed in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York, among other locations.

Character Work

Best known for her character work, she has introduced her “faces” on stages throughout the U.S., in “The Dryer”, featuring more than 30 characters in her one-woman show. She recently filmed Nuvo TV’s hit stand-up show, Stand Up and Deliver, and has performed at the most well-known comedy venues in Los Angeles, including The Improv, Comedy Store, Laugh Factory, Comedy Union, and many other venues throughout the U.S.

Always interested in working with young people, she was a drama instructor for middle school students in Los Angeles, and developed her own curriculum.

Eventually, this led to her establishment of Comedy Playground, a program for youth, headquartered out of the Hollywood Improv. The program started with three students, and now has reached thousands since its beginning in 2002.

Ms. Spies works with students ages eight to 19, as well as with adults, 19 to 45 in “Finding Your Funny” workshops, and for seniors 55-103 in “Senior Stand-up” workshops.

“Laughter is ageless, a universal longing, a tool helpful to all,” she points out. “One of my students was a 103-year-old woman who used a walker. She could focus on her own issues with humor. It’s never too late to laugh!”

People come to Comedy Playground classes for a variety of reasons, she adds. For many, it’s simply a chance to have fun, while others may be hoping for a career in comedy.

Point of View

“Some of the kids who have come to my classes have been successful in getting work in comedy,” says Ms. Spies. In fact, after eight weeks of classes in improvisation and stand-up comedy under her tutelage, all the students have an opportunity to perform at Hollywood Improv.???

The training process involves activities that not only examine the structure and delivery of jokes, but also encourages participants to express their point of view. “I’m encouraging them to share who they are through comedy,” explains Ms. Spies.

The three hour classes include improvisation and warm-up exercises, then developing stand-up routines. “It’s heart to head to hand,” she continues. “They feel it, think about it, and then write it. Stand-up takes discipline and focus. It’s very concentrated. You start with ‘What I feel’ and then think about it. That’s the premise, and then we develop a joke.”

The kids are free to have fun, without worrying that they may be wrong or making a mistake, she adds. “I like them to understand that there are no wrong answers. The hardest thing is to get them to believe that whatever they do is okay and won’t be wrong. They can feel free to be themselves.”

Students benefit from the classes in many ways, she believes. “It increases self-confidence and self-esteem, and also helps develop time management skills, presentational skills, critical thinking, and expository skills. It’s wonderful to see a very timid kid come of his or her shyness. They can blossom and become passionate about doing stand-up. I love bonding with the kids and giving them this opportunity. I’m really passionate about this.”

Ms. Spies is equally passionate about her own performances. As she says, “When I’m performing, I’m at home; I’m in my element, and am very free and liberated.

Comedy Boot Camp

Offering the Comedy Camp Workshop for kids and young people, aged 8 to 13 and 14 to 19, as well as for interested adults, is Ms. Spies way of sharing her skills with the residents of her home town. The camp will be held August 19 through 23, for one week. Cost for the camp is $375, with classes Monday through Friday at 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

“This is week-long comedy ‘boot camp’, with an ending show,” explains Ms. Spies. And no previous experience needed. As she says, “You don’t have to have any performing experience, as long as you have opinions, like to laugh, and have something to say. You learn your own stand-up comedy routine, develop it from ideas, and share it with the community.”

She adds that programs in the arts can always benefit from the generosity of individuals and organizations. “We will be grateful to anyone who supports us at any level.”

Energy and a sense of excitement accompany the Comedy Camp, and as she points out, “My motto is ‘Why sit … when you can stand up!’ and ‘We each have our own story … now is the time to share it!’”

Register as soon as possible. Places are limited. For more information call (323) 397-2709, email Susanna at susanna@comedyplayground.com or visit the website: www.comedyplayground.com.

FINANCIAL FUTURE: “A boutique investment advisory organization is small and focused. We do investment management only. Our career portfolio managers carefully research and analyze companies for sound investment ideas.” R. Todd Lincoln, partner and co-founder of Princeton Portfolio Strategies Group LLC, is shown second from left in the back with the firm’s team, including back row: Rob Hoffman, Bill Hamill, Ned Grassi. Front row: Lindsey Amery, Carlton Savoye, Suzanne Twitchell. New partner Alan Moucha is missing from the photo.

How best to plan for retirement? What about rising college costs? How to establish a legacy plan?

Whether they are on the verge of retirement, a family with young children, or individuals deciding how best to disperse their assets when their own lives are over, many people are concerned about all of these issues.

Helping individuals, families, small endowments, and non-profit organizations to identify their financial objectives and manage and grow their assets is the mission of Princeton Portfolio Strategies Group LLC.

Established in 2011, it is a small (seven partners), independently-owned SEC-registered investment advisory firm, located at 212 Carnegie Center, Roszel Road.

Highly Focused

“We manage portfolios of publicly-traded securities for private clients and non-profit institutions who seek objectives-based investment strategies and a partnership approach to wealth management and client service,” explains R. Todd Lincoln, co-founder and partner.

In the wealth management business since 1984, Mr. Lincoln began his career with Merrill Lynch in San Francisco. He came to Princeton 27 years ago, and in 1999 joined the Princeton firm Glenmede Trust. When the opportunity to create a boutique, highly focused investment management firm arose, he and like-minded colleagues decided to take on this new adventure two years ago.

“Our clients are high net worth individuals and institutions, including libraries and foundations, who are looking for something different from what most financial services firms offer,” says Mr. Lincoln. “We can deliver proprietary, value-added advice, and portfolio management strategies not typically found at ‘platform-based’ financial services firms, such as brokerages, banks, and trust companies. We find opportunities for individuals and institutions who think out of the box.

“We invest primarily in publicly traded securities with strategies ranging from balanced portfolios of carefully selected stocks and bonds to concentrated all-capitalization equity portfolios.

“I’m on the advisory side,” he adds. “I help clients and institutions understand the options, and that this is an opportunity for a long-standing relationship with us. We help them identify their objectives and explain about risk tolerance.”

Mr. Lincoln points out that the portfolio managers spend many hours researching and analyzing companies. They visit companies and management teams, and deliberate among themselves before buying or selling a security for client portfolios.

Investment Ideas

“Investment ideas arise both through top-down and bottom-up channels,” continues Mr. Lincoln. “Many of our investment ideas are generated through research of economic and industry trends, and the companies fulfilling the needs implied by such trends. All investment opportunities are evaluated from three analytical perspectives that together help us identify individual portfolio candidates with sound risk/return profiles.

“(1) Economic or industry trends. We look for companies that will be the beneficiaries of powerful and long-lasting industry or economic growth trends. (2) Business model. We must be able to understand how a company makes money and the quality and sustainability of its competitive advantages. (3) Valuation. We look for a current stock price or company ‘valuation’ that allows us to see proper growth patterns and eventual prosperity.

“Once a stock becomes a portfolio holding, we critically and continuously monitor the company’s industry prospects, its operations, and its stock valuation to measure how these factors are evolving vis-a-vis our investment thesis.

“Diversification is always important, such as including 20 to 30 companies that are all different, but it is also important to be opportunistic and find companies that will fit our disciplined approach and investment process.

“We have a lot of client engagement,” adds Mr. Lincoln. “Many are very involved in their portfolio. We try to be as transparent as possible. We want clients to be engaged and know what we are doing and why.”

Clients are from all over — from Princeton to San Francisco — and they are all ages. “We have 20-year-olds and 80-year-olds. We want to start the 20-year-olds out on the right track. The key is trust. We find that people go to professionals who want to build trust, and then continue to build on that trust to form a long-term relationship.”

Financial Future

The economic turmoil beginning in 2008 brought with it an icy wind of worry for many who feared for their financial future. Some called it the Great Recession, almost rivaling the Great Depression of the 1930s.

“We call it the ‘Great Re-setting’,” reports Mr. Lincoln. “People began to reset priorities and values. I hope we will have a smarter planet, and I think we have smarter consumers going forward. They are paying off debts, and investing more. The internet allows the individual consumer to be more informed, to learn, and get background. It’s important to educate yourself upfront.”

People still have concerns about the U.S. economy and the uncertainty in the world situation today, he notes, “but public corporations are delivering share holder value in spite of the government’s dysfunction.

“We look forward to growing our firm over time, and getting our story and business points out to people. In the competitive landscape today, we want to explain our story and our differences, and give like-minded investors an opportunity to work with us. We have an eye towards long-term investing: that is, three to five years of holding a stock on average. Our own money is managed along with that of our clients. Princeton Portfolio Strategies Group are investors, not traders — a very important distinction.”

For more information, call (609) 436-5680. Website: www.princetonpsg.com.

CREATIVE COLOR: “Color, cut, and style all work together. We think of it as totally wearable fashion.” Tim and Kate Bricker, owners of B+B Hair Color Studio, are shown with stylist Jill ­Harer at their new Witherspoon Street location.

Color is the key. In the hair industry today, it’s all about color. It is the major focus of nearly all salons.

“Hair color is a total fashion statement today,” says Tim Bricker owner, with his wife Kate, of B+B Hair Color Studio at 190 Witherspoon Street, Suite 4. “It’s just amazing how much color has evolved. The quality of color hair products has improved tremendously. It’s completely safe now. We have a super-nurturing hair color Nectayar from Europe that consists of all natural ingredients. Hair color actually improves the condition of the hair, and increases the shine.

“It can also add the perception of depth to fine hair. In addition, color can change and enhance the skin tone, and it can even appear to change the shape of the face.”

Mr. Bricker says B+B Hair Color Studio clients are all ages, “from 16 to 96!”, and  are both men and women. “Men often like to have gray blending, and they can look 10 years younger with this!”

Tone-on-Tone

For girls and women, the variety of choices is extensive. Blond highlights are always popular, but darker “chocolate” shades are also favorites. And, of course, color is still used to cover gray.

“What is really big now is tonal, tone-on-tone color,” report the Brickers. “It’s multi-dimensional, and gives a very natural look. We are definitely natural hair people here. Our focus is natural.

“Ombre is a popular look,” continues Mr. Bricker. “It can be achieved with hair painting or foils, and it is most often done on longer hair. The color is applied part way down, not at the top. Also, we specialize in cool color tones, and they are very popular. It can be light or dark, and it is basically the absence of red tones, so there is no brassiness. If it’s light, we think of it as ‘Fifth Avenue Blond!’”

For those unfortunate do-it-yourselfers who have had an unhappy color experience, the Brickers have corrective color treatments that can undo the damage.

Cutting and color go hand-in-hand, and Mr. Bricker was recently one of five top stylists from across the country, who trained with celebrity stylist Nick Arrojo (seen on the TV show What Not to Wear) in precision razor cutting.

“Precision razor cutting is good for all hair styles,” he explains. “It gives texture, movement, and lift to the hair. The way hair cutting is approached changes, with new techniques constantly coming along. We are always training and participating in continuing education.”

Ambassador Salon

“Also, we have recently partnered wth the Arrojo Studio in Manhattan, and we are an Ambassador salon for Arrojo. Only a select number of salons are chosen as Ambassador salons. We can send our stylists to be trained by his staff, and we carry the Arrojo products.”

The Brickers have trained other stylists throughout the northeastern U.S. As platform artists and master hair color specialists, they also style models’ hair at shows and events in New York City and elsewhere.

In business for 15 years in Princeton, they have always specialized in color and cutting. “I always loved the creativity of it, and I especially liked all the differences involved in hair color. I could see how complex it was,” explains Mr. Bricker.

While the majority of their clients have mid to long hair, the Brickers enjoy working on all lengths and types of hair. Curly hair provides its own challenges, and Mr. Bricker points out that color can enhance the curl, as it reflects the light.

Styling Products

For those with straight hair, he notes the current popularity of the curling wand, and also the variety of styling products that keep the style in place. “We believe the Arrojo products are the best because they are created and tested by hair dressers in the Arrojo studio in New York. This translates into a premium product that is completely user-friendly.”

Their recent move from their former State Road location has provided the studio with much more space, and it offers a very contemporary, sleek, and sophisticated look. “We wanted to be ‘Soho Sleek’! We feel like the Soho of Princeton,” point out the Brickers, smiling. “We are very specialized, and we’re all about being a boutique. We also wanted to be in downtown Princeton, and Witherspoon Street is great. It has lots of energy, and it’s where it’s happening.”

Their many long-time clients agree, and they are also intrigued by the studio’s high tech TV and iPad connection. “We have a big TV screen and can transfer the images to an iPad we give the clients’ says Ms. Bricker. “We can show them whatever style they are interested in. Even styles from celebrities at the Grammy’s and other events.”

“We pride ourselves on offering our clients the best service we can,” adds Mr. Bricker. “We enjoy making people look and feel better. They’re happier, and it makes a difference for them. We look forward to continuing to help our clients have the very best cuts and color.”

Studio hours are by appointment Tuesday through Saturday. (609) 683-4455. Website: www.bbcolorstudio.com.

CROWNING GLORY: “Our focus is hair — cutting, color, and styling. We help to make people feel good about themselves. If someone looks better, they feel better.” Joanna Kulikowska, owner of La Meche Hair Design, is shown in the salon’s new studio at the Village Shopper.

In a rut after the long winter? Are those gray days getting you down? Spring will be here soon, and maybe it’s time to shake things up, stir the ingredients! A new look, a new hair style, perhaps a new color for the new season?

All of these are available at La Meche Hair Design, which recently moved to the Village Shopper, 1340 Route 206 in Skillman.

Formerly located at the Montgomery Center for many years, the salon has a brand new sleek, contemporary look in an attractive, light-focused setting.

“I wanted to have a very clean look,” explains owner Joanna Kulikowska. “The products are hidden on shelving behind the mirrors, so it is very uncluttered. My father, husband, and brother all helped me with the design and renovation.”

Good Foundation

Ms. Kulikowska has been affiliated with La Meche for 16 years and a partner for 10. In November, she became sole owner. Originally from Poland, she came to the U.S. at the age of 16, knowing no English. She learned quickly, and eventually attended Mercer County Community College, majoring in accounting — certainly a good foundation for any business.

In time, her interest shifted to the hair and beauty industry, and she became a licensed cosmetologist. The creativity involved in cutting, styling, and color appealed to her. “My father was an artist, and my mother was very artistic, and I’ve always liked the visual aspect of things.”

The right hair cut, style, and color can make all the difference, she notes, and that is the specialty at La Meche, which means “lock of hair” in French.

“We do everything for hair — cut, color, style, and straighten. Some people still like perms, and we offer that too,” says Ms. Kulikowska. “A lot of people with curly hair want it straightened. The really popular hair style today is long and straight. Especially with young people, but also with women in their forties.”

On the other hand, Ms. Kulikowska especially enjoys cutting and styling short hair. “I specialize in that. I love short hair. You can do a lot with it and have a lot of different styles.”

When helping clients with a style, she takes into consideration facial structure, hair texture, and life-style. “I always ask clients how much time they are willing to spend on their hair,” she explains. “They may bring in a picture of a hair style that looks simple, but in reality, it requires time to get that look.”

Fashion Statement

Some people just don’t have the time or inclination to style their own hair, she adds. “We have clients who come in once, even twice, a week for a blow dry.”

What is major in nearly all hair salons today, of course, is color! “Color is huge,” says Ms. Kulikowska. “Almost everyone wants it. It’s even starting with younger girls, if their parents allow it. It’s like a fashion statement. It’s certainly not just to cover gray.”

Color products are safer than in the past, she points out. “Many have less or no ammonia now. With color, the idea is to look as natural as possible, and there are new techniques and color formulations to achieve that. Ombre is very popular now, and is a hand-painted technique, starting at the top of the head, and gradually lightening the hair throughout its length. It goes from darker to light, and is best on dark hair.

“Balayage is another method, similar to Ombre, and is hand-painted from the roots out. It is multi-dimensional and gives a very natural look.”

Traditional highlighting is also very popular, and there are many ways to achieve color  variations throughout the hair. Also, these days, many brunettes are opting for red highlights, adds Ms. Kulikowska.

All ages, and both men and women, are choosing color today, and typically, they come in every four to six weeks for touch-ups — or a complete change!

Linkage Meu

For those who may have had a bad do-it-yourself color experience, La Meche offers corrected color treatments. Doing it yourself is  not quite as easy as the ads and commercials indicate, and a professional not only has the experience but can offer knowledgeable advice about appropriate color for the client’s skin tone and overall coloring.

Special conditioning treatments are also available, notes Ms. Kulikowska. “We recently started offering Linkage Meu, a 3-step salon treatment, including aromatherapy. It provides instant smoothing, conditioning, improves the quality of the hair, and lasts five weeks. It’s very good for excessively dry hair and for hair that has been blown dry too much or improperly.

“Also, for people with thinning hair problems, I suggest they use Biotin, a vitamin helping hair, nails, and skin.”

La Meche is a family-oriented salon, she points out, and clients include women, men, and children. “Our staff is very focused on service. People want to be taken care of. They want to feel welcome. We give superior attention to each client.

“We have many regular and long-time clients, who have been with us over the years. There has been great word-of-mouth,” she continues. “This is very individual work because every client is different and has different hair requirements. All of us have continuing education here. There are always new things coming along, new techniques, and new color formulations. I look forward to expanding the staff, including younger people. We will be up-to-date with all the new styles that young people like.”

“Mostly, I enjoy making every individual happy. They always have a smile on their face when they leave!”

La Meche is competitively priced, with cuts starting at $55 and color at $75. Gift certificates are available, and also special sessions, including make-up, for brides and bridal parties.

Walk-ins are welcome, and tea, cappuccino, soda, and light refreshments are offered.

Hours are Monday by appointment, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday 8 to 5, Saturday 7 to 4. (609) 924-7800. Website: lamechesalon.com.

SWIM TIME: These three young swimmers show their form as they get ready to take a dip in the Nassau Swim Club’s six-lane, 25-foot pool. “This is a safe, peaceful environment, where kids can really have a summer just being kids without all the pressure that is so prevalent today,” points out Ansie Monaghan, President of Nassau Swim Club Board of Trustees.

Nestled in the woods near The Institute for Advanced Study is a hidden gem. Located at the tip end of Springdale Road, Nassau Swim Club has been welcoming members for nearly 50 years.

“We are a small safe family community,” reports Anne Merrick Mavis, board member and director of marketing. “Families return year after year for the friendly atmosphere, great swimming, and good company. My kids, now 15 and 13, love it. This is a place that they look forward to. They spend all day here. It’s their summer home.”

A private, cooperative, board-run organization, Nassau Swim Club offers 200 memberships to families and individuals. Its community atmosphere is enhanced by members taking part in the club’s operation. As Ms. Mavis notes, “Members take on two responsibilities when they join. For example, mowing the lawn, getting the pool ready, or helping with barbecues, picnics, etc.”

The club has several social events throughout the season, including its Memorial Day opening, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, and various other occasions, including a silent auction fund-raiser for the pool.

Princeton and Beyond

“We have a ‘Night Under the Stars’ with a special dinner, also a Texas Barbecue and a Movie Night, when we set up a big projector outside,” reports Ansie Monaghan, president of the board.

Members include people from Princeton and beyond, she adds. “They are people from all over the area, with different backgrounds, and we might not meet each other if it weren’t for the pool. It’s nice, too, because the kids are often from different schools, so they make new friends, as well as seeing people they already know.”

Adults are pleased that there is always a designated two-lane lap area in the six-lane, 25-foot pool, except for three hours — 8 to 11 a.m — when the swim team practices.

Children of all ages enjoy the opportunities geared to their level. A baby or wading pool is available to kids five and under. Its location beside the main pool is a plus, points out Ms. Mavis. “When my children were small, I could be with the 2-year-old in the little pool, and also keep an eye on my older child in the regular pool.”

In addition, chairs and tables are set up in shady spots surrounding the pool area.

A 13.5-foot diving well is another feature, which is also available for water polo.

Two life guards and one supervisor/life guard are always on duty. They are 15 yeas old or older, and have received life guard-, first aid-, CPR-, and AED- certified.

Small group swimming lessons are free to all ages, including adults.

Focus on Fun

The club’s swim and dive teams are part of the Princeton Area Swim & Dive Association (PASDA) and teams consist of boys and girls six to 18. They compete against teams in the area, and are at all ability levels. Various meets are held, including a championship meet at the end of the season.

The focus is on the enjoyment of swimming and the pleasure of being on the team. As the club statement notes: “At the conclusion of a meet, individual swimmers are ranked and awarded ribbons. The individual swimmers’ combined scores result in a winning team. We have a number of very good swimmers, but the emphasis is on fun and being part of the team. We believe that creating an atmosphere where kids are enjoying the activity keeps them interested. We encourage team members to come to practice daily, but we understand when other summer commitments take priority.”

Team members are required to have completed the deep end test and have a desire to have fun, continues the statement. “No previous experience is needed to join the team. Parents of participants are asked to volunteer to work at three of the meets, either home or away, and to bring a baked good for the home meet. You will also be asked to work one event at the championship.”

Regulations for the dive team are similar to those for the swim team.

General pool regulations require that children under 12 be accompanied by an adult (except for team members). Those over 12 may be unaccompanied, if they have passed the deep end test, and have signed parental permission.

Children often go on to become life guards as they grow up, says Ms. Mavis. “My son Andrew, who has come to the pool since he was four, will be a life guard this summer.”

Unique Atmosphere

Supervisor David Adlai-Gail, 19, has been with Nassau Swim Club since his very earliest days, and has a singular history. He came as a baby, began swimming at two, but as he reports, he actually came before he was born. “My mom came to the pool when she was expecting me!”

Nassau Swim Club provides a unique atmosphere that results in long-standing memberships, points out Ms. Monaghnan.

“It’s such a special place. You can always count on it here. It will always be the same relaxed, tranquil environment, as well as a place to make new friends. We want to keep it this way and have it continue to be this special place where we are able to offer the joy of swimming and an atmosphere of simplicity. And, it is a joy to be part of an organization that teaches children the love of water.”

Ms. Mavis agrees, adding: “We really are set apart by the simplicity, the wonderful setting with the natural shade, and the cooperation among the members. What a privilege to be part of such a special place.”

Family and individual memberships are available at reasonable costs, including discounts for those over 55, students, and those from nearby Princeton University, The Institute for Advanced Study, and Princeton Theological Seminary. There is also a generous guest pass policy.

Members may bring their own snacks or lunch; a refreshment concession is operated by students on an intermittent basis.

The pool is open from Memorial Day through the second week in September from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (609) 436-0797. Website: www.nassauswimclub.org.

ROOF REHAB: We came to Princeton in 2008 because there a was a need for a roofing company like ours here. We hire only the best roofers in the business. Princeton is our customer. We do all sizes and styles of roofs — everything from sheds in the backyard to large houses and mansions.” Dan Simpson, project manager for Russell Roofing, looks forward to even more Princeton projects.

A good roof over your head — that’s about as important as it gets. And when you consider this very significant investment, you certainly don’t want one that leaks or will not withstand the elements over time.

Russell Roofing, known for high quality products and workmanship, has recently been taking on many more projects in Princeton and the area. “We now have a branch office at 812 State Road,” says Russell Roofing project manager Dan Simpson. “We specialize in unique roofs, including slate, cedar shake, copper, and tile, as well as asphalt shingles. Many Princeton houses have slate roofs, and also a lot have skylights. We are a 5-star skylight installer, only one of 100 in the entire country.

“We offer a solar ventilating skylight, which just became available in March. The remote control operates by solar power. We already have many orders, and today, there is a 20 percent tax credit for the solar skylight.”

A family business, Russell Roofing was founded 20 years ago in Oreland, Pa., and its motto is: “If It’s Russell, It’s Right. Guaranteed!” Known for residential, commercial, and historic renovation, the award-winning company is proud of its high ratings from customers and professionals alike.

Master Elite

“We are a certified ‘Master Elite’ contractor with GAF, the largest shingle manufacturer in North America,” points out Mr. Simpson. “That status puts us in the top 2 percent of roofers in the U.S. We are also a 5-Star installer with CertainTeed shingle manufacturer.”

Russell Roofing handles all types of roofs for private residences, churches, universities and colleges, and commercial buildings. Its employees are highly qualified, having undergone stringent instruction and testing.

“All our roofers are certified and trained by Russell Roofing and the  shingle manufacturers,” explains Mr. Simpson. “All our employees are drug-screened, background-checked, and fully insured. Safety First is our motto, and this is a year-round business. We do put roofs up in the winter; but we’re very careful, and if it’s too windy, we don’t go up.”

Roof problems come in many forms, he notes, but improper nailing is the major mistake. “I have been surprised by the disregard for application that some roofers have exhibited on roofs we have to repair or replace, “reports Mr. Simpson, who is a certified roofer himself.

“Nailing is hugely important. We hand-nail all our roofs. We not not use nail guns. Hand-nailing requires great attention to detail. There is only one layer of asphalt between your home and Mother Nature. If the shingles are applied properly and correctly nailed, they can last as long as the roof underneath. The manufacturers have specifications which require the nails to be in a particular spot. A tiny change can cause a problem.”

As project manager, Mr. Simpson comes to the customer’s house for a free consultation. This includes inspection of the roof, measurements, and a diagnosis. “After the diagnosis, I’ll put together a full, detailed proposal. Also, I can do on-the-spot repairs immediately if I see a problem.”

High Profile

The style, age, and size of the house can determine the appropriate roofing, he adds. “For example, long-lasting cedar shake is appropriate for a Tudor house, perhaps one that dates back a long time.”

Tile is very good-looking, and is often popular for southwestern or Spanish-style homes, he points out. It is also very long-lasting — perhaps 100 years or more — and Russell Roofing has installed tile roofs on some high profile buildings, including Independence Hall in Philadelphia.

“Slate is appropriate for older houses and large stone houses,” continues Mr. Simpson. “Slate, which can also last 100 years, is very heavy, and newer houses cannot bear the weight. In addition, however, there is synthetic slate now, which looks authentic, and is not as heavy.”

Complete attention to detail and personalized service is the hallmark of Russell Roofing, he emphasizes. “We believe in doing the job right the first time, and we do everything accurately according to the manufacturer’s specifications. We see the job through completely from beginning to end. We don’t stop work until the job is done. There is a foreman on the job every day, all day. A production manager also stops in every day, and the project manager comes as often as possible.”

As project manager, Mr. Simpson oversees a number of different jobs. An average house takes three days for complete roof installment. Larger houses can take a week or more, he explains.

He is very proud of the quality work Russell Roofing provides. “During Hurricane Sandy, of the 16,000 houses with Russell Roofing shingles, not one shingle blew off. In an emergency, such as trees through a roof or solar panel, or shingles blown off in a storm, we come right away and put a tarp over it. Our job is to keep the house water-tight.”

Masonry Department

In addition to residential work, the company provides roofs for many commercial and institutional buildings including stores, office buildings, factories, warehouses, schools, churches, and municipal buildings.

Although the company’s major focus is roofs, it also installs gutters, siding, and windows. It has recently added a masonry department as well. “We would get calls for roof leaks that were actually coming from the chimney. The challenge really is trying to find the water — the source of the leak,” he explains. “It doesn’t always show up where the water comes in.

“We do chimney repair and replacement as well as stone and brick veneers.”

Customers can count on Russell Roofing for the highest quality and dependable service. And Mr. Simpson points out, “According to the Better Business Bureau, the average life of a roofing company nationwide is two years. It’s so often a race to the bottom: to see who can give the cheapest price. Russell Roofing is now in its 21st year.

“Our pricing is very fair and disciplined. It varies depending on the materials and the size of the job. We do live-job costing — everything is completely identified: the numbers of hours, numbers of workers, materials, etc.

“I knew right away Russell Roofing was the right company for me,” he continues. “I am proud to be associated with a company that believes in quality and doing the best for the customer with a superior level of service. “I’d certainly have them put a roof on my house!

“We look forward to continuing to be a contractor of choice in the Princeton area.”

For more information, call (609) 630-6300. Website: www.russellroofing.com.

“THE PLAY’S THE THING”: Princeton Summer Theater (PST) is an opportunity for young actors, directors, designers, and theater administrators to become part of a unique artistic community. Shown from left to right are members of the PST 2013 Company: Pat Rounds, Maeve Brady, Evan Thompson, Sarah Paton, Brad Wilson, and Holly Linneman. All are Princeton University undergraduates or members of the Class of 2013.

There is nothing quite like it. The planning, the preparation, building the set, the rehearsals, the lighting, the costumes, the smell of the make-up, and finally, the thrill of seeing it all come to life in front of an audience on opening night.

Princeton Summer Theater (PST) has been providing these experiences since 1968, and will celebrate its 45th anniversary this season.

It is a unique summer theater company, organized and operated by young people, nearly all Princeton University students or recent graduates. They are from all over the U.S. and what they have in common is a love of the theater and the excitement of participating in this special undertaking, which is unlike any other.

Princeton University has a long history of encouraging theater. Its popular Triangle Club, its connection with McCarter Theatre, and the establishment of the James Stewart Theater — a tribute to one of its most famous alumni — are all testimony to its support of the arts.

Future Professionals

In the 1930s, members of the student-run Theater Intime introduced a summer theater at the University. Until the 1950s, the summer company was known as the University Players. In 1968, it became semi-dependent on Princeton University, and was renamed Summer Intime. Then, in the late ’70s, it became known as Princeton Summer Theater. Every summer, a new company of Princeton students and graduates comes together to present a season of four plays and one children’s show.

Dedicated to training future professionals in the theater, PST offers students and young professionals experience working in every area of theater production, from performance and directing, to design, to marketing to theater management. Some famous alumni include John Lithgow, Bebe Neuwirth, among others.

“This is such a valuable experience for us. It let’s us work on our craft,” says PST artistic director Emma Watt, Princeton Class of 2013. “It’s a co-op operation, run by current students and graduates. It’s full-time, and a real ensemble with a company of actors.”

Two weeks of rehearsal are required for each production, and presenting five plays in eight weeks is intense, points out PST communications director and Princeton University junior Maeli Goren. “We work from 10 in the morning to 10 at night. On the morning of opening night, we start rehearsing for the next show. There are a million surprises every day. This work is good work. We’re proud of it. We’re doing it for real.”

Members of the PST staff and company live and work together, and the University provides housing on campus. “I think this is the coolest thing because we all live together,” continues Ms. Goren. “You feel you are enveloped in this little bubble of creativity. One member of the company recently said, ‘I don’t think I have ever talked about theater with so many smart people in the same room before!’”

The artistic director is charged with selecting the plays for the season, and Ms. Watt has chosen, as she describes them, “a romantic musical, a southern melodrama, an adaptation of a famous novel, play and movie, and an Iraq war story.”

Ensemble-Based

The season begins with the popular musical She Loves Me (June 20-30), followed by Crimes of the Heart (July 4-14), the ingenious spoof of The 39 Steps, and the Iraq War story, Time Stands Still (August 1-11). The last is to be directed by Ms. Watt.

“We look for ensemble-based shows that emphasize variety,” explains Ms. Watt. “I do like to have a play by a female playwright. In this case, with Beth Henley’s Crimes of the Heart.”

The children’s production How Thumbelina Found Her Wings (July 4-6, 11-13, 25-27, August 1-3, 8-10, at 11 a.m.), written by company manager Annika Bennett, is also in that category.

“We have four productions, five performances of each, and Saturday and Sunday matinees,” says Ms. Goren. “The audience here is subscriber-based, and we like to offer them something different. They like the variety, and they are very enthusiastic. People are so excited about us. We are the ones doing summer theater here. McCarter basically closes down in the summer.”

“I’ve been surprised at how excited the members of the community have been and the recognition,” says Sarah Paton, Princeton Class of 2013. A member of the company, who also appeared in PST’s 2012 season, she hopes for a career in the theater. “People see us on Nassau Street and say ‘Weren’t you in such and such play?’

“Another thing that is so special about PST is the opportunity to do all these different productions. I know it will take a long time in my later career to do such interesting plays again. This is a wonderful experience.”

Great Dynamic

Princeton University junior Pat Rounds, another member of the company, agrees and points out that “This is a professional group, and we’re getting paid to act. It’s a great dynamic, and we have this common goal of going from show to show very quickly and giving our best.”

It all begins, of course, with auditions. It has been correctly pointed out that “The first step to the cast party is the audition”. But the experience can fill the most confident actor with trepidation, and getting the part is an achievement indeed.

Ms. Watt is on the look-out for certain qualities in those who audition. “I look to see how the person is connected to his or her body and how they are listening to the words they are saying, and how that works together,” she explains.

“I look for someone who is having fun and likes to ‘play’,” adds Ms. Goren. “We will all be living together, and I want to feel I can spend time with this person. We have people coming from other schools to audition for us. As a young artist, it’s difficult. We can offer this great program. We will feed and house you, and you get a chance to act.”

Princeton Summer Theater is funded by contributions from various groups and organizations in addition to Princeton University, including businesses, corporations, individuals, in-kind donations, and the sale of tickets. The Princeton community is known to be supportive of the arts, and the performances are always well attended in the Murray Hamilton Theater on the campus, which seats 189 people.

The series of children’s workshops is another popular aspect of the PST season. “The kids love this,” says Ms. Goren. “It’s taught by the actors, and the kids get to interact with them. Also, after the performance of the play, there is an autograph session when the kids can meet their favorite characters.”

Main stage performances are Thursday through Saturday each week at 8 p.m., with matinees Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are $25 general admission, $20 for students. The children’s show is $9. Subscribers pay $65 and save 35 percent for four reserved seats that can be used in any way: one for each play or all for a single performance. For ticket information, call SmartTix at (877) 238-5596 or visit www.SmartTix.com. Contact PST staff at (609) 258-7062 or via email: princetonsummertheater@gmail.com.

Curtain Going Up!

FINEST FLOORS: “All the people — our installers, our sales force, everyone — have great experience and integrity. The company is all of us. We know why customers come here. They want the work done correctly the first time. We don’t do a job incorrectly. We provide one-on-one service and build up trust.” Joe Rossi (left) partner in Regent Floor Covering, is shown with operations manager Christina Hughes, sales manager Russell Vizzini, and partner Jay Kuti.

Family businesses are not the norm these days. Once upon a time, such independently-owned operations dotted the retail landscape. Now it is a tribute to the outstanding reputation, knowledge, and skill of Regent Floor Covering that it is one of a selected number of such businesses not only still going strong, but celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

Established in 1963 by Felix Rossi and his partners, it is located at the Pennington Square Shopping center, Route One north in Pennington. It has a long history of satisfying customers who have remained loyal patrons over the years.

“Some of our customers are third generation,” says Joe Rossi, son of the founder, and now partner with Jay Kuti. “They know they can count on us. We have set a higher standard for quality service, and we strive to uphold our customers’ expectations.”

Mr. Rossi really learned the business from the inside out, coming in on weekends and after school as a boy, experiencing the full spectrum of the operation, including installation. He joined the business full-time in 1985, and became partner 20 years ago.

Complete Selection

Customers, who are from all over the Princeton and Pennington area, find a complete selection of floor covering, including carpet and area rugs, hardwood, ceramic tile, stone, marble, and slate, vinyl, and laminates. Regent carries a wide range of products including the finest quality lines in all categories.

“We are set apart not only by the quality of our product, but because we sell, install, and service it,” adds Mr. Rossi. “In carpeting, the biggest thing today is the softness of the yarn. It’s both soft and durable, and people really like this.”

“It’s especially popular in the bedroom, living room, and den,” points out operations manager Christina Hughes. “Hardwood floors are also favored in living rooms, and we are seeing wider widths, with more texture.”

Hardwood laminates are big sellers now, add Mr. Rossi and Ms. Hughes. “In the bathroom and kitchen, porcelain tile can have a wood look. It doesn’t matter if it gets wet. It has become very popular in the last few years.”

Tile continues to be in demand with many customers, and for a variety of rooms. Regent Floor has a tremendous selection, with many sample floor designs on display in the attractive and spacious showroom.

“The diversity of the products within tile alone is incredible,” says Ms. Hughes. “Granite is very popular for countertops, porcelain and ceramic for floors, and also slate and marble. River stone is in demand for shower floors now, too. It’s a very textured look. We have products and tile that have a rustic to a more modern motif.”

Smooth and Polished

“Marble is available in different finishes, including textured for the floor and smooth and polished for the walls. Glass tile is offered in many designs and is often popular for accent. The design glass tile is a favorite for borders, but can also be used for entire wall tile, especially in the bathroom.”

Kitchens frequently feature laminates and tile, adds Mr. Rossi. “The latest is LVT — luxury vinyl tile. It can look like wood or stone, and is very durable. This has become very popular, and the price is right.”

Man-made and natural tile comes from all over the world, he and Ms. Hughes report. The color range is huge, with choices for every home decor and design.

In addition to floor covering, Regent offers a variety of window treatments, from shades to shutters, and in many styles and designs. Cordless, pleated, vertical, room-darkening — all are available.

As the company has evolved and expanded, it has really become a one-stop-shopping destination, especially by virtue of its remodeling and renovation capabilities. “The latest expansion was about 10 years ago, when we went into complete kitchen and bath remodeling,” reports Mr. Rossi. “It has been very successful. We were already doing backsplashes and countertops, and the customers really pushed us into it. They didn’t want to deal with all the different contractors. Now, we can do it all for them. We have in-house carpenters, plumbers, etc. — all the specialists.”

Regent is also known for carpet, tile, and grout cleaning, he adds. “Carpets should have a professional cleaning every 18 months and every three or four years for tile. We also do rug binding and repair. We provide service for everything we sell. We also do commercial as well as residential work, including stores, businesses, offices, restaurants, etc.”

New Products

Regent’s clients have included Gillespie Advertising, The Ferry House, Merrill Lynch, Chapin School, Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton Township, and Princeton University, among others.

The Regent team, including 20 staff members, makes a point to attend shows and seminars around the U.S. in order to keep up-to-date with advances and new products.

There is a wide price range, and Regent works hard to be as affordable as possible, says Mr. Rossi. “We have something for everyone’s budget, and we will work with people to find the right product in their price range. We can offer flexible financing options.”

“We also have special sales periodically,” adds Ms. Hughes. “We will have promotions in May in connection with our 50th anniversary.”

Mr. Rossi has noticed a number of changes in his more than three decades in the business. The biggest change has been customer knowledge, he reports. “People are more informed than ever. They have done research on the internet, and it makes it easier for us. Because they have that knowledge, they appreciate a company that knows what it is doing and has integrity. After 50 years in the same community, we have earned the customers’ trust.

“I enjoy seeing a project come together,” he continues, “and seeing the customer be so pleased with an outcome that was above and beyond their expectations. And it is never dull! Every day is different, every job is different, every customer is different.”

“We surround ourselves with complete knowledge of our products,” points out Ms. Hughes. “I look forward to continuing our relationship with the customers and being able to offer so many product choices for them.”

Regent Floor Covering is open Monday, Tuesday, Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday 9 to 8, Saturday 10 to 4. (609) 737-2466. Website: www.regentfloorcovering.com.

BEST BEDS: “The addition of the mattresses, headboards, and pillows has been a nice way of diversifying what we have. It’s a perfect fit for our business, and brings in our existing customers as well as new ones.” Debbie Schaeffer, President and CEO of Mrs. G TV • Appliances • Sleep Center, is pictured in the showroom, where 16 beds are on display.

Mrs. G • TV • Appliances has recently added a new level of comfort for its customers. The long-time Lawrenceville store at Baker’s Basin Road and Route One is now offering a sleep center, with several lines of Serta mattresses and pillows, as well as headboards.

“We carry Serta mattreses, the number one mattress brand in the country,” says Mrs. G President and CEO Debbie Schaeffer. “Our Serta mattresses have levels — tier 1, 2, and 3, so a great mattress can be within your price range.

“We have also set aside a special section for the mattresses away from the main activity of the store. We encourage customers to take 20 minutes and lie down to try out the different mattresses. It is very important to have a mattress that gives you the right support. Come in and try out a firm, plush, or super soft mattress.”

The Serta mattresses available at Mrs. G are i Comfort, Perfect Day i Series, Perfect Sleeper, and Smart Choice.

Memory Foam

“The Comfort model is currently the most popular,” reports Ms. Schaeffer. “It has memory foam and also a cooling gel to keep you cooler at night.”

This Cool Action™ Gel Memory Foam is designed to deliver superior pressure relief and more targeted support, while offering a cooler nights sleep. In addition, it is anti-microbial and dust mite-resistant.

The i Comfort line also includes a motorized adjustable model, allowing for raised head and foot positions. It can be comfortable for reading in bed or watching TV as well as sleeping. It is also helpful for people who need special back, neck and shoulder support or who may need a raised head position to prevent acid reflux.

The Perfect Day i Series technology combines the exclusive Cool Action™ Gel Memory Foam with the most advanced Duet™ Coil individually wrapped Coil Support System. This mattress also offers individual support for each sleep partner.

Serta has joined forces with the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) to introduce the all new Perfect Sleeper, the first official mattress of NSF. It is engineered with input from the NSF to help solve many of the most common causes of poor sleep.

In addition to mattresses, Mrs. G is carrying the Leggett & Platt line of headboards in contemporary and traditional styles. Available in wood and metal, they are in assorted colors. There is also a fun trundle bed, which is very popular with children. The pull out bed underneath can also be raised to the level of the top bed, creating a comfortable double bed for adults.

Cool Gel Pillow

“The head boards are very affordable at $199 and up,” says Ms. Schaeffer. “Our mattresses — twin, queen, and king — start at $559 for the Perfect Sleeper, including box spring.”

Pillows and sheets are also available, she adds. “You need a good pillow for support of the head and neck. It is important to have the right pillow, and also, it should be changed at least every two years. Among the styles we have is a cool gel pillow, offering cool comfort”

“We are partnering with the Center for Sleep Medicine at Capital Health to offer an event on May 16,” she continues. “Doctors from the Center will talk about the importance of sleep. Sleep is so necessary for your health, and so many people don’t get enough. You should sleep in a dark room, not use electronic devices before sleeping, and no alcohol two hours before going to bed.”

Mrs. G, of course, has been known for many years as the place to go for top quality refrigerators, washers and dryers, cooking appliances, including top-of-the-line outdoor grills and outdoor kitchens, dishwashers, and TVs, all at very reasonable prices.

“I really want people to realize that our prices are very competitive with the big box stores,” points out Ms. Schaeffer. “We buy collectively with 5000 independent stores from the largest buying group in the country with $14 billiion in buying power and that is how we offer excellent prices.”

Established in 1933 in Trenton by Beatrice and Abe Greenberg, the store originally focused on plumbing supplies. Over the years, it became known as Mrs. G, and evolved into a showcase for a diverse selection of fine quality brands with inviting displays and special areas for customers to browse.

Family Operation

Mrs. G continued as a family operation, when Debbie Schaeffer, the Greenbergs’ granddaughter, joined the business, and became president five years ago. While taking the business to further heights, Ms. Schaeffer emphasizes the philosophy that has always characterized Mrs. G: “taking care of the customer, having a good selection of brands in the showroom, and continuing the long tradition of supporting the community and local charities.”

The showroom has also become a popular venue for community and professional events, hosted both by Mrs. G and various other local organizations and businesses. Ms. Schaeffer and Mrs. G have received many honors and awards, including Princeton Regional Champer of Commerce Innovator of the Year Award 2011, Legacy Award for Women in Consumer Electronics 2010, Princeton YWCA Tribute to Women Award 2010, and Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Small Business Award 2009, and the New Jersey Retail Merchants Association (NJRMA) 2012 Retailer of the Year.

“We believe it is very important to give back to the community and be part of the community,” explains Ms. Schaeffer. “This has always been important at Mrs. G. Also, one of the things I enjoy most is the interaction with our customers. We have so many regulars, and I love it when I can help them find the right product for their needs. And if there is ever a problem, we get them service, and work to make it happen for them. This is so important to us.”

Ms. Schaeffer has also worked hard to provide Mrs. G with the most-up-to-date and professional website available. “This is so necessary today. We realize how important it is to have a really strong social media presentation. A website is powerful. You want it to have impact and be easy to access. We update it all the time.”

Easy access is key — to the website, just as it is within Mrs. G’s 20,000 square feet of showroom The availability of so many choices under one roof is a boon to busy shoppers. As Ms. Schaeffer says, “We are a one-stop appliance, TV, and Serta mattress super store. With our large inventory, you can easily make the best selection.”

And in addition, get a good night’s sleep!

Mrs. G is open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday 9 to 6, Sunday 11 to 5.

(609) 882-1444. Website: www.mrsgs.com.

MYSTICAL, MAGICAL YOGA: “Yoga is so good for the mind and the body. It brings such clarity. When you challenge yourself physically, it hones your focus. When you leave the studio, the choices you make in life are clearer.” Lara Heimann, owner of YogaStream on Spring Street, is enthusiastic about her Yoga Alliance style of instruction.

It offers an hour of calm and quiet. No phones, no tweets, no e-mails, no texts. It provides experiences focused on strengthening, stretching, movement, and breathing. It can be a memorable — even mystical and magical — mind and body adventure that is fulfilling in many ways.

Indeed, yoga, which continues to grow in popularity in the United States, is essential to many people today, an integral part of their life-style.

YogaStream, the new yoga studio at 44 Spring Street (in the rear of the Judy King Interiors building, with an entrance on North Tulane) offers Yoga Alliance-certified instruction with a focus on alignment, core strengthening, movement, and breathing.

Founder and owner Lara Heimann has more than 15 years experience teaching yoga in Princeton, as well as a master’s degree in physical therapy. She completed her 200-hour Yoga Alliance certification in 1999, and continued her yoga study in more advanced teacher trainings. Her great interest in anatomy and creative movement led her to develop her own style, YogaStream.

Creative Sequences

“YogaStream is an energizing, alignment-based and core-focused style of yoga that taps into your innate current of strength with each practice. Our classes incorporate a variety of playful exercises and inversions to improve strength, flexibility, and endurance,” explains Ms. Heimann. “Each practice starts with core work and inversions to ready the body for the flow. In the flow, a series of sequences are ultimately streamed together. It is basically vinyasa-style yoga combining movement and breath. It is based on creative sequences that make sense and flow. This fluidity sharpens your focus, empowers your body, and clears your mind.”

Yoga is both calming and energizing, she adds. “You feel more alert and awake when you leave, more connected. Yoga is a connection of mind and body, and gives us mental and physical strength.”

Ms. Heimann’s classes typically consist of five to 28 students. The attractive, sunny, light, and roomy space afford an opportunity for clients to practice without being crowded or cramped. Classes last an hour and 15 minutes, with a special lunch time “Expresso” class available for one hour.

Students are primarily women, but men enjoy yoga too, and a class just for guys, “Dude”, is provided Sunday morning.

Ms. Heimann offers 18 classes a week for different levels of ability and experience. Level 1/2 or “Smooth” is for students with some experience and can be challenging; Level 2/3 or “Move”, focuses on more arm balance and inversions; and Level 3 or “Groove”, is very challenging.

In February, Ms. Heimann will start a new class, “Source” for beginners, which will be available for five weeks.

Highest Potential

“I teach to the highest potential of every student,” she notes. “People can do more than they realize. I also have students with particular conditions, such as tendinitis, arthritis, and back problems, etc. They can all benefit from yoga. Because of my experience as a physical therapist, I understand the muscles and how things work.

“Many of our students come three to five times a week,” she continues. “Once a week is better than nothing; twice a week is more toward maintenance; and three times a week is when the magic happens — when change occurs. People lose weight, get stronger, and have fewer injuries. Because of proper alignment, they have better balance. And alignment also helps you grow and improve. People can achieve different and more challenging postures.”

Because one is concentrating intently during a yoga class and is basically free from anxiety, it can help reduce stress, adds Ms. Heimann. “It gives students a sense of empowerment. Another thing, our classes have cardio and weight-bearing exercises. There is no better work-out than YogaStream.”

Classes are $20 each, and $15 for students and seniors. A mixed level community class at 6:15 p.m. on Mondays is donation-based, with all proceeds going to HomeFront. “Budget can be an issue, and we want to enable as many people as possible to come,” she explains.

Way of Life

Gift cards are also available, and are an excellent way to introduce people to the benefits of yoga.

A special open house will be held on Sunday, January 13, with refreshments and two complimentary classes, from 11 to 12:15 and 1 to 2:15.

Over the years, Ms. Heimann has had many students for whom the practice of yoga has become a way of life. “Practicing yoga with Lara has absolutely changed my life,” says a long-time student. “Sometimes I master things in the studio, but more often, I master things that I can take out of the studio and into my life.”

Adds another: “I’ve learned more in Lara’s 2-hour YogaStream workshop than I did in a full year of regular yoga classes.” And according to a third: “Lara’s compassion and love for teaching comes shining through in every class. In her class, I have never felt overweight, out of shape, slow, lazy, or ‘less than’; and after her class, I feel renewed and alive.”

And, as Ms. Heimann says, “What we have here is a real sense of community. There is a true bond. People often stay after the class to be together and talk. When they come to my class, students know they will have quality instruction, but also this sense of community. I look forward to building our yoga community and exposing more people to quality yoga.

“I am so passionate about it. It’s a life-style. You are more connected to things that matter. It’s transformative and life-changing. I am so lucky I get to do something I love!”

In addition to the regular yoga classes, YogaStream offers workshops, retreats and teacher training. (609) 947-5335. Check the website for hours and further information. www.yogastream.net.

PERFECT PIE: “I’m here every day. It’s important to be here and see the customers. People have been coming to us for more than 30 years, and we always treat them with courtesy and respect.” Nino Spera, owner of Nino’s Pizza Star in the Princeton Shopping Center, holds two of the pizzeria’s specialties: the “Buffalo” and the “Brooklyn” pizzas.

It’s a favorite of nearly everyone. First introduced in Italy in the 1500s, so the story goes, it made its way to the United States in 1905, and was introduced in Brooklyn, N.Y.

Whether it’s a slice or a whole pie, plain with cheese and tomato sauce, or with “the works”, pizza has become a staple in the American diet. It’s on just about everyone’s menu.

“Pizza is so popular because it’s good for you — with the cheese, tomato sauce, veggies, and the protein. And it tastes good!” says Nino Spera, owner of Nino’s Pizza Star in the Princeton Shopping Center. “And our pizza is set apart because we make fresh dough every day. Nothing is frozen, everything is fresh. We cook the sausage ourselves, and we have our own special recipes, developed by my father and me.”

Customers have been coming to the popular pizzeria for more than 30 years, and they know they can count not only on great-tasting pizza but friendly service as well.

Family Tradition

“We have so many loyal and regular customers, and we always make them feel welcome,” says Mr. Spera, who purchased Pizza Star with his father Giuseppe Spera in 1977. He is proud to be carrying on the tradition of his family’s pizza business.

“My father had a pizza business in Wildwood, and I really grew up in it,” he recalls. “I started to make pizzas when I was 13, working with my uncle in Pizza City in Trenton.”

And he still makes them today. Not only is he a hands-on owner, he takes pride in creating pizzas of every kind. “Some of our specialties are the “Buffalo”, honey barbecue, Margherita, and the ‘Brooklyn,’” adds Mr. Spera, who was born in Sicily, and came to the U.S. when he was 10.

“This is the best pizza ever — the flavor is fantastic!” said a customer recently about the “Brooklyn”, which features fresh plum tomatoes, basil, Buffalo mozzarella, and mozzarella.

Other favorites include spinach, broccoli, and ricotta pizzas, and of course, all the popular toppings, from pepperoni and sausage to mushrooms, olives, anchovies, and peppers.

In addition to pizza, Nino’s offers a variety of Italian specialties, from every kind of pasta dish to such Italian favorites as sausage with peppers, veal parmigiana,  veal marsala, and chicken cacciatore, and the ever popular calzone and stromboli sandwiches. Hot and cold subs as well as veggie subs are available, and for special events, a 3-foot hoagie is offered. Cheesesteaks and cheese burgers are another favorite option.

Colorful Murals

Mr. Spera has expanded the menu in the past few years, and the establishment has become more of a popular setting for sit-down dining. It is an attractive spot, with its colorful murals displaying scenes of Tuscany, and there is seating for 70.

“We’ve been expanding and improving the menu recently, and my wife Daniela has been very involved in this,” says Mr. Spera. “She has added special salads, and also helps with the catering, which is a growing part of our business.

“We have a special homemade soup of the day, and our salads include arugula with goat cheese, aged olives, cherry tomatoes, and olive oil; spinach salad with white raisins, sliced almonds, sliced reggiano parmiagiana; and caprese salad with wet mozzarella and mozzarella, fresh basil, sliced tomatoes, salt, pepper, oil, and garlic, among many others.

“We also have a terrific Pizza Star antipasto, with assorted cheeses, meats, olives, and anchovies, served over lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers.”

Seafood entrees are growing in popularity, too, and include everything from shrimp scampi to calamari marinara and mussels marinara.

Beverages range from sodas, juices, and coffee to the popular new bai specialty. There is no liquor license, but customers are welcome to bring wine or spirits of their choice.

Wide Range

Pizza Star is also known for its popular Italian desserts, such as tiramisu and cannoli, as well as for its soft and hard ice cream.

Prices cover a wide range, with a slice starting at $2.40 and a medium plain pie at $13.50. Cheesesteak sandwiches are $8.75, subs from $7.50 (veggie), and pasta entrees from $11.25.

Even with the attractive expanded menu, for many customers, the focus at Nino’s is still pizza,” says longtime customer and Princeton resident Mark Jaffe. “I swear by this place, and I swear by this pizza! It’s authentic, excellent pizza. I’ve been coming here for 30 years, and it’s an Italian jewel! The owner is here, and the staff is loyal and friendly. Nino and the staff love being here and have a true Italian passion for food.”

Such accolades are not unusual, and Mr. Spera is grateful to his loyal customers and looks forward to serving them and meeting new ones. “The customers know they can count on us for the best pizza and service. And the shopping center location has been great. The parking is so easy and convenient. We are one of the oldest tenants here, and I look forward to continuing to be here a long time. I love meeting all the people. It’s socializing for me, a pleasure.”

Nino’s Pizza Star offers take-out and sit-down from 10:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 10:30 to 11:30 Friday and Saturday. Delivery is also available. (609) 921-7422. Website:www.ninopizzastar.com.