HOLIDAY DISPLAY: “We have something for everyone to enjoy, and something for everyone’s pocketbook. There is the historical aspect of the connection with Morven and related items, but we also have a wide array of gifts of all styles and types. And we are a nonprofit. All the proceeds from the shop go to support Morven’s programs and events.” Kathy O’Hara, left, Morven Museum & Garden hospitality manager and manager and buyer for the Morven Museum Shop and Rhonda DiMascio, Morven Museum & Garden executive director, are shown by a display of holiday favorites.

By Jean Stratton

Do not wait!

Hurry over to the Morven Museum Shop for some last minute holiday shopping. This is truly a Princeton hidden treasure, filled with an array of gifts for everyone, regardless of age, taste, or pocketbook.

What’s more, this special shop challenges the ubiquitous online shopping of today. Yes, it is convenient to sit at the computer or with a hand-held device, click, and just add to the cart without leaving the house.

But at the Morven Museum Shop, you can hold something in your hand, feel the fabric, test the weight of the item, or notice as the light shines through a crystal bowl, creating a rainbow of colors. more

TAKING A BOW: Princeton Pro Musica Artistic Director Ryan James Brandau acknowledges applause from the audience at last year’s December holiday concert, “A Feast of Carols,” at the Princeton University Chapel. “Our annual December ‘A Feast of Carols’ includes the Christmas music of Bach and Handel and a wide variety of carols from across the ages,” says Kenny Litvack, Princeton Pro Musica’s marketing manager. (Photo by Ron Wyatt).

By Jean Stratton

What is your pleasure? Opera, symphony, choral, Broadway musicals, rock, rap, pop, blues, folk, country?

What is wonderful about music is that it is a gift for all of us. We are fortunate in Princeton to have many opportunities to enjoy a wide selection of music in many styles and formats. more

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

By Jean Stratton

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

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

COOPERATION AND COOKING: “With the program, I can dedicate my efforts to focusing on community, cooperation, acceptance and kindness for and with children.” Chris Johnson, owner of the Sticky Fingers Cooking franchise in Princeton, is enthusiastic about this new after school cooking program for children.

By Jean Stratton

Chris Johnson knew about cooking from a young age.

“I was always interested,” he recalls, “and I especially enjoyed watching and helping my favorite aunt in the kitchen.”

A New Englander from Maine and Massachusetts, he headed to New York for job opportunities, eventually working in the corporate world, focusing on legal technology. more

EXERCISE AND EMPATHY: “Yoga, and sharing this gift with others, has been among the greatest gifts of my life, and at the heart of my healing journey,” says Andrea Sacchetti. A yoga therapist, registered yoga teacher, and the founder and director of Princeton Yoga & Wellness, she is shown in the studio’s welcoming area for new students.

By Jean Stratton

These are challenging times, as nearly everyone is quick to point out. Worries over politics, bank accounts, negative social media, AI, kids’ anxiety and depression  —and more  — all abound.

Not everyone can take time to go sailing, spend a few weeks at a beach resort, or visit other stress-free (hopefully) locations.

Another opportunity, however, and closer at hand, is yoga. A proven method to offer stress relief and at the same time provide both exercise and empathy, it has become a popular means for many to enjoy quiet moments away from that ubiquitous “To-Do List.”

Princeton Yoga & Wellness at 88 Orchard Road in Skillman is such an opportunity. Founded by yoga therapist and yoga teacher Andrea Sacchetti in March 2024, it offers private sessions, group classes, and special events. more

OPEN AGAIN: “We are glad to be open again and part of the community once more. Our former customers are happy to see us, and we have many regulars as well as people finding us for the first time. We also get lots of tourists. Princeton is a unique town that attracts visitors from all over the world. Our different beer styles seem to align with many international tastes.” Eric Nutt (left), director of corporate sales, and Ray Villano, general manager of Triumph Restaurant & Brewery, are delighted with their new Palmer Square location, formerly home to the Princeton Post Office.

By Jean Stratton

Adam Rechnitz, owner of Triumph Restaurant & Brewery, Eric Nutt, director of corporate sales, and Ray Villano, general manager, like challenges!

When he opened Triumph Brewing Company in 1995, certified master brewer Rechnitz had to take on the New Jersey Legislature, and spearhead a drive to legalize brewpubs, which were then illegal in New Jersey. He and his partners were persistent, the bill was passed, and Triumph Brewing Company, the first brewpub in the state, opened at 138 Nassau Street in 1995. more

COTTAGE ENVIRONMENT: An aerial view of the grounds at the Meadows of Lawrence.

By Jean Stratton

Helping to care compassionately for an older person. Cooking something that she or he would like to eat. Helping them to put on a shirt or sweater that won’t irritate thinning skin. Trying to think of something that might make them laugh. Sharing a story.

All ways to treat someone with dignity and respect, and all important values at The Meadows at Lawrence, emphasizes Daisy Newson, director of community relations.

“The well-being of our residents is our NO. 1 priority,” she explains. “We are based on the Greenhouse Model. This includes individual cottages, a low population, and a higher staff-resident ratio. We provide people with all levels of care here; a nurse is on-site 24/7, with a nurse station in each cottage, and a doctor comes every day. And all the food is cooked right here. Everything is baked fresh, and all dietary needs are accommodated.”

The Meadows at Lawrence, which is affiliated with the Lawrence Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center, opened in 2015 at One Bishops Drive in Lawrenceville. It is set apart from most long-term health care facilities because of its cottage environment, offering a more home-like atmosphere. Its six cottages are each home to 10 residents, and all are fully staffed with aides to help each individual as needed.  more

PLEASING THE PALATE: “At DK Provisions, we believe the beauty in food lies in its power to bring people together. Sharing a great meal can be a transcendent experience, one in which memories will last a lifetime. That’s why we are passionate about creating unique, flavorful dishes that delight the senses and leave a lasting impression on our clients and their guests. We strive to bring a fresh approach to catering, encouraging clients to try something new by using vibrant, global flavors, prepared with an intimate and curated touch.” Chefs Karen Ryfinski and David Kirk look forward to sharing their expertise to provide inspired dining for their clients.

By Jean Stratton

Dining opportunities expanded in an exciting new direction in 2023 when Chefs Karen Ryfinski and David Kirk combined their skill and experience to open DK Provisions Private Events and Catering. The former sous chefs at elements restaurant wanted to offer something different to area residents.

As they explain, “We noticed that there was a need and opportunity for a catering/private event service that strives to break free of the standard mundane and dated catering formula (protein, sauce, starch). While this formula may please the masses, more often than not it lacks imagination, presentation, and gives little consideration to seasonality and the quality of ingredients. In contrast, DK Provisions offers a service that believes in the importance of sourcing high quality and seasonal ingredients and preparing them with modern techniques, playful imagination, and an eye for the aesthetic.

“Our goal is not only to exceed standard catering expectations but to offer a highly curated experience, one which is akin to what one may experience at the highest end restaurants.” more

SUSTAINABLE SPOTLIGHT: “Simply Sustainable offers a carefully-curated selection of environmentally friendly and healthy interior finish and construction products to suit all building styles and budgets.” Co-owners and mother and daughter team Mary Jane Augustine LEED AP, WELL AP (left) and Lia Nielsen LEED GA, WELL AP are shown with 11-month-old Sage (Lia’s son) in the Simply Sustainable showroom.

By Jean Stratton

Earth-friendly concerns are becoming more and more important to people as they contemplate not only the universal environment we all share, but their own individual habitat. What does this mean in terms of product choices — household or construction, indoor, outdoor — also budget, location, carbon footprint, etc.?

Increasing numbers of options are available, all leading both to opportunities and challenges. How best to determine one’s own obligation to the stewardship of the Earth and the most effective ways to implement it? more

WINNING TEAM: “I very much enjoy helping our clients to look their best, and I enjoy helping the staff to accomplish their goals and reach their potential.” Master stylist and salon director at Enmoda Salon & Spa, Zachary Mosco, second from left back row, is very proud of his team of stylists, estheticians, and nail technicians shown here.

By Jean Stratton

You will definitely be “in style” at Enmoda Salon & Spa at 163 Bayard Lane.

The Spanish term “enmoda” can mean in style, and Princeton’s Enmoda lives up to its name. The master stylists, estheticians, nail technicians, and makeup specialists are all ready to help each client look their best.

Opened two years ago, the establishment has a clientele of men, women, and children, from 9 years old to 80-plus, all who are regular clients, reports salon director and master stylist Zachary Mosco. more

SERVICES AND SOLUTIONS: “The goal of Walsh Senior Solutions is to provide families with helpful solutions during downsizing and stressful moving situations. Our team is very efficient. We are professional organizers, helping people clean up, move out, and move into their new home,” says John Walsh, founder of Walsh Senior Solutions. Shown from left are employees Jack Sander, John McCollum, and Celeste Twamley.

By Jean Stratton

John Walsh

“Keep the memory, not the item.”

This suggestion by John Walsh is helpful to many of his clients as he assists them to transition from one living locale to another. The founder and owner of Walsh Senior Solutions in Princeton, he helps families with the often challenging and stressful decision to leave a home of many years and settle in a new location.

One of the most difficult aspects of this move is the dilemma of “excess possessions.” Parting with prized and meaningful items accumulated over the years is extremely hard for many people, and Walsh is cognizant of and compassionate about this major concern.

“Certainly one of the hardest things for people is to get rid of things,” he points out. “Books, memorabilia, childhood toys, all kinds of things. There can be a real emotional attachment, and we are careful to deal with that compassionately. Sometimes, I will suggest that they take a picture of something instead of keeping the item.” more

NEW LOOK: A new roof provided a handsome new look to this house in Hamilton. Expert Chimney & Roofing is known for its expertise in chimney, roofing, and masonry work.

By Jean Stratton

A new chimney? A new roof? New front steps?

If any of these are on your list, Expert Chimney & Roofing is at your service.

Headquartered at 0-02 Fair Lawn Avenue in Fair Lawn, this family business was opened in 2000 by Myrtezan Iseberi. Today his two sons, Eric and Tony, are the owners, and along with their brothers, are continuing what their father began.

“This is a real family business,” they explain. “Our father entrusted it to us. There are four brothers and our nephews working together, and also on different crews depending on the job that day. We help people all over New Jersey with our quality service.” more

SINGING IN THE AIR: “We want to educate people and introduce them to this wonderful art form. Part of our program is to help people learn about and understand the art song.” Alta Malberg, president, co-founder, and co-artistic director of The Federation of the Art Song, is shown with vice president, co-founder, and co-artistic director Martin Néron.

By Jean Stratton

“If music be the food of love, play on.”

–William Shakespeare

Music. It is everywhere, and touches us all.

From rap, rock, and pop to country, folk, and blues to Broadway show tunes and jazz to hymns, anthems, and opera, there is a song for everyone. more

COLLEGE QUEST: “Higher education is not only about where you go, but also who you want to be in the world. When approached well, I believe the college admissions process can be one of the most significant opportunities for students’ intellectual and emotional growth.” Benjamin Caldarelli, founder of Benjamin College Consulting, is enthusiastic about helping students navigate the college admissions journey.

By Jean Stratton

Strategist. Mentor. Counselor.

These are some of the designations which identify Benjamin Caldarelli in his mission to help students gain admission to college.

But they are not all. As founder of Benjamin College Consulting, he is adviser, coach, collaborator, educator, motivator, encourager, and especially, listener.

All of these identities form the mosaic in which Caldarelli guides his clients on a journey of opportunity and challenge to a successful college admissions destination.  more

“SMALL FUND, BIG IMPACT”: “‘Small Fund, Big Impact’ is our motto, and it’s so true! For 18 years, our Johnson Park Koko Fund has assisted Johnson Park students experiencing financial hardship by subsidizing enrichment programs they can join.” Koko Fund co-chairs Philip Arnold and Deirdre von Roemer are proud of the fund’s contributions in offering students an opportunity to participate in a variety of activities.

By Jean Stratton

If you don’t have students attending Johnson Park (JP) Elementary School, the Koko Fund may be unknown to you.

But it is such an important program, providing opportunities and enrichment to so many children, that it won’t remain unknown for long. Its impact continues to grow, as new students become involved and the community helps provide needed support.

What is it and how did it begin? First of all, Koko is a gorilla! That is: the large stuffed animal version which is the Johnson Park mascot. It reminds the students to: “Be Responsible. Be Respectful. Be Safe. Be Kind. Be Successful.” more

HELPING HANDS: “We make sure that our atmosphere offers everyone a sense of belonging and getting along. We take into consideration everyone’s personality as we help them develop skills to participate in activities and work projects to create useful products,” report founders Violetta and Sergio Neri and founder and executive Svein Hansen of Pennington Adult Living Services (PALS). Shown, in foreground from left, are PALS participants Nicole, Jack, and Keller. Seated at top are David and Robert.

By Jean Stratton

You never can predict how one step, one decision can set in motion a series of events that lead to something unexpected, and yet with ramifications that will benefit people for years to come.

Consider PALS: that is, Pennington Adult Living Services. This organization offers programs, activities, and learning opportunities for adults with special needs. Founded in 2017 by Sergio and Violetta Neri and Svein Hansen, it has filled an important need for adults with a variety of conditions and challenges, including the autism spectrum, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and seizure disorders, among others. more

FOR YOUR PLEASURE: The pleasure of pasta is definitely on the menu at Pastiamo Pasta Bar & Café. “My idea is to provide an authentic Italian dining experience by serving fresh and dry pasta, antipasti, and dolci in the traditional Italian style, with recipes from the north, center, and south of Italy,” says chef and owner Francesca Casapietra. “Lovers of Italian pasta will find the right place here at Pastiamo, where the unique taste of each dish comes from the use of only high quality ingredients and the passion for authentic fresh cuisine.”

By Jean Stratton

Homemade Italian specialties are the attraction at Pastiamo Pasta Bar & Café in the Princeton Shopping Center. Opened in November 2023, with its grand opening this past February, it already has a group of enthusiastic diners.

“We have repeat customers, and they are coming from all over the area,” says chef and owner Francesca Casapietra, “Once they come in, they come back!”

Born in Genoa, Italy, Casapietra, came to the U.S. 10 years ago, and settled in Princeton with her family. “We liked Princeton’s international flavor,” she says. “I had always enjoyed cooking with fresh, healthy ingredients, and pasta was a specialty. In Italy, everyone enjoys pasta. It can be the first course, with tomato or other sauces, and then followed by meat, cheese, vegetables, and fruit.” more