January 25, 2023

Many Princetonians Cheer Governor’s Proposal to Expand Liquor Licenses

By Donald Gilpin

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy’s proposal in his January 10 State of the State address that the state ease restrictions on liquor licenses was welcome news for many Princeton residents, members of the business community, and public officials, but whether that proposal will result in more accessible licenses for local restaurants remains to be seen.

“It’s good to say, ‘Hey, let’s start to talk about this. That’s a huge step forward,” said Princeton Mayor Mark Freda. “But the devil’s really going to be in the details here.”

With municipal licenses for public consumption limited to one for every 3,000 residents, according to the current law that dates back to 1948, the resale value for licenses in Princeton is over $1 million. 

“The system is so archaic,” said Councilwoman Michelle Pirone Lambros. “We’re probably the only state in the nation that is this archaic in terms of our liquor licenses.”

Freda went on to explain the difficulty of accommodating both current license holders and potential new applicants. “They have to come up with a process,” he said. “There’s value to that license for current license holders, and depending what town you’re in the value could vary widely. There has to be something to protect your investment. They’re going to have to find a way to balance it out, but it’s a good step that we’re at a point where we’re going to try to figure this out and find a way to move forward.” more

Princeton Schools Are Out in Front On Gov. Murphy’s Media Literacy Bill

By Donald Gilpin

Earlier this month New Jersey became the first state in the country to require schools to teach information literacy and media literacy, in seeking to provide students with the skills to accurately assess information and to combat “fake news” and misinformation.

“Our democracy remains under sustained attack through the proliferation of disinformation that is eroding the role of truth in our political and civic discourse,” said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy in signing the bipartisan legislation to establish the requirement that K-12 schools in the state teach information literacy. “It is our responsibility to ensure our nation’s future leaders are equipped with the tools necessary to identify fact from fiction. I am proud to sign legislation that is critical to the success of New Jersey’s students and essential to the preservation of democracy.”

The importance of information literacy is not news to the Princeton Public Schools (PPS) and its students. On the issues of information literacy, teaching critical thinking skills, and preparing students to sort out fact from fiction amidst the blitz of information they confront every day in the contemporary multi-media world, PPS has a significant head start.

Princeton Middle School (PMS) Librarian Carolyn Bailey, who co-teaches with teachers in all subject areas on library/media curriculum-related lessons, has been aware of the conversation surrounding this information literacy bill over the past several years. “From my point of view our school district has been, and continues to be, ahead of the curve in media/information literacy education,” she wrote in an email. “Our K-12 library/media curriculum is up to date and cognizant of the issues this bill addresses. Our librarians and media specialists partner with teachers in all subject areas to ensure students are using the best resources for information and understand why credible sources are important.” more

January 18, 2023

New Trash Carts to Be Delivered Soon

By Anne Levin

With new 64-gallon carts scheduled to be delivered to Princeton residents over the next few weeks in preparation for the town’s revamped trash collection program, homeowners have the choice of tossing their old containers or holding on to them for other uses. Sustainability advocates and municipal staff are hoping people opt for the latter.

Turning the old carts into composters, rain barrels, or containers to store leaves for compost are a few of the suggestions on offer. “We know this is not going to work for every person. But we want to extend the useful life of whatever bins or carts people have,” said Christine Symington, executive director of Sustainable Princeton. “Part of the waste reduction hierarchy is that you want to reuse things. Our team, in coordination with [municipal engineer] Deanna Stockton, has come up with a bunch of different ideas.”

The goal was to find creative options that are not overly complicated. “There are several things you can do,” said Symington. “And we’re planning on holding some workshops in the spring, and perhaps later in the year, where folks can bring their old containers in and we can help facilitate turning them into other uses.”

The new trash collection system is scheduled to begin February 1. Bulk waste will no longer be collected with regular trash after that date. Pickup of bulk items will be on Wednesdays, by reservation (email wasteinfo@princetonnj.gov). Collection of organics is still being explored.

The new carts, which save labor by the use of robotic arms, are being assembled on the campus of Princeton Theological Seminary, and will be delivered to residents by the hauler. Each cart is equipped with a chip linking it to a specific address. Residents who feel they need more than one cart can order one, which may require a fee. Those who want a smaller receptacle can request a 32-gallon model, and swaps will be done in March. more

Paul Robeson Tomato is Basis for a Multifaceted Princeton Project

By Donald Gilpin

The Paul Robeson Tomato, named after the Princeton-born African American singer, actor, and activist, is an heirloom tomato of the beefsteak variety known for its versatility and its rich, tangy, smoky flavor.   

If you’re not familiar with the Robeson Tomato, you will be soon if Joy Barnes-Johnson, Princeton Public Schools science supervisor and Paul Robeson House of Princeton board member, has anything to say about it.

Barnes-Johnson is leading The Paul Robeson House of Princeton Robeson Freedom Garden Campaign, “a wonderful way for us as a community to honor Robeson, whom we are calling Princeton’s native son,” she said. Robeson, whose birth house on Witherspoon Street is currently under renovation, would have been 125 years old in April 2023.

“The Paul Robeson House of Princeton is going to be distributing tomato seeds to students in schools

and families in our community and to anyone who requests them,” said Barnes-Johnson. “The point is to create what we are hoping will be nationwide or global, these freedom gardens in honor of Paul Robeson.”

She continued, “The point of the freedom garden is not only to provide a harvest for individuals, but to do what in Indigenous cultures is called an honorable harvest, where you take what you need but make available to anyone what they may need to eat for that day or to be free for that day.”

Barnes-Johnson launched the project at Monday’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration at Princeton Middle School, and she plans other Robeson Tomato events throughout the year. Robeson Freedom Gardeners will gather in September 2023 to celebrate Robeson Tomato gardens planted during the year.  more

Plans for Expansion Of Airport Terminal Proceeding on Schedule

By Anne Levin

To those who use Trenton-Mercer Airport for business or leisure travel, the announcement last spring of a planned expansion and modernization was welcome news. The Ewing Township airport’s 28,000-square-foot terminal, built in the 1970s, is to be replaced with a new 125,000-square-foot terminal built next to the existing facility, with gates to accommodate four aircrafts.

A 1,000-space parking garage is also part of the plan. Design of the project is targeted for completion late this year or early in 2024.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) gave Mercer County the go-ahead in March to proceed with phase 2 of the new terminal’s design. There is continued opposition to the plan by a group called Trenton Threatened Skies, citing noise, traffic, and threats to the environment including chemical contamination flowing into the Delaware River.

The FAA’s “Finding of No Significant Impacts and Record of Decision” for the Environmental Assessment says the expansion does not have the potential for significant environmental impacts. Trenton Threatened Skies has challenged that assessment, filing a legal petition for review in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.

Trenton-Mercer Airport was officially opened in 1929, with aviation pioneers Amelia Earhart and James Doolittle in attendance at the ceremony. Currently served by Frontier Airlines, the airport has been used by commercial airlines as well as the aviation departments of several Fortune 100 companies as well as the U.S. Customs Service, the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, the New Jersey Army National Guard, the Civil Air Patrol, and the Mercer County Community College Flight School, according to information from the county. more

Princeton Battlefield Society Event Attracts Unprecedented Number of Participants

RELIVING A PIVOTAL DAY: The January 8 reenactment of the Battle of Princeton at Princeton Battlefield was followed by a commemorative wreath-laying at the Colonnade to honor those soldiers, on both sides, who died during all the battles of the Ten Crucial Days. (Photo by Al Pochok)

By Anne Levin

Having mounted a vigorous effort to publicize its signature educational event, “Experience the Battle of Princeton,” at Princeton Battlefield on January 8, members of the Princeton Battlefield Society (PBS) had a feeling it might be well attended.

But when more than 800 people from nine states and as far away as the United Kingdom showed up for the event, which was followed by a commemorative wreath-laying at the Memorial Grove on the battlefield, they were pleasantly surprised.

“Building on the dedication and enthusiasm of the folks on the reenacting side is a wonderful resource,” said Todd Quackenbush, PBS communications chair, a few days after the event. “I think they were attracted by the opportunity to do the reenactment on the original battlefield. We had a little time separation from the [Christmas Day reenactment] events at Washington Crossing, so we had a really big turnout — 270 on the Continental side, 80 or 90 on the British side.”

The original Battle of Princeton “marked the capstone of the ‘Ten Crucial Days’ of 1776-77 that began with the crossing of the Delaware by Washington’s forces, and ended with a complete reversal of the series of defeats that American forces had suffered in New York and New Jersey since July 1776,” Quackenbush wrote in a release about the event.

The Ten Crucial Days is considered to be one of the most pivotal campaigns of the Revolution. “It’s a fascinating study in military strategy and tactics, arguably George Washington’s finest moment,” Quackenbush said. “It’s the issue of surprise — picking your enemy’s weak spots, and finding ways to do things the other party isn’t expecting, and getting into their heads about what happens. The British had pushed the Americans out of New York, and they thought it was just about mopping up at this point; squashing the last resistance.” more

Heat Pumps Might Be Wise Options For Energy, Air Quality, Health Benefits

By Donald Gilpin

“Heat pumps aren’t magic, just efficient,” reads a headline in last month’s The Charge, Princeton University’s online newsletter reporting on some of the University’s energy and environmental research.

The short article about heat pumps goes on to describe how efficiently they work and how new government incentives can help to make them an attractive alternative for homeowners with traditional air conditioner and furnace systems.

In her research, in both rural China and in her own home in Princeton, Denise Mauzerall, Princeton University professor of civil and environmental engineering and international affairs, has taken a close look at the heat pump option.  “Heat pumps do seem like magic,” she says, as quoted in The Charge article.

In a January 13 email she explained, “Heat pumps are highly efficient and provide a great way to cost-effectively heat and cool homes. The added benefit for the environment is that as the power grid moves away from electricity generated with fossil fuels and towards power from renewable energy, heating and cooling our homes with heat pumps will be even more beneficial for air quality and climate.”

Mauzerall’s family converted their gas furnace and conventional A/C to a heat pump last year. “The HVAC company that maintained our conventional gas furnace and A/C were unfamiliar with heat pumps and quoted extremely high prices,” she said. “The company we went with that had previously installed heat pumps for others sold us the air source heat pump for a price that was approximately the same as what the other company had quoted us to replace our gas furnace and A/C with a comparable new gas furnace and A/C.” more

Obituaries 1/18/2023

Charles David Allis 

Charles David Allis (“Dave”) passed away January 8, 2023 in Seattle, Washington, surrounded by his loving children and wife Barbara of 47 years. He was born March 22, 1951 in Cincinnati, Ohio. Dave and Barb met at the University of Cincinnati where they both attended undergraduate studies and later married July 12, 1975.

Dave’s passion for helping others and his enthusiasm for knowledge led him to pursue a career in science. He loved teaching and cherished the opportunity to mentor countless young scientists over his 42-year career, spending the last 20 years at The Rockefeller University in New York City. Dave is often remembered as saying, “Find something that you like to do and someone you like to share it with,” and how blessed he was to have found both in his remarkable career and his loving wife Barbara. To steal a phrase from Dave himself, “Good show, Dave!”

Dave was a husband, father, grandfather, brother, mentor, and friend. Those close to him loved his sharp wit and sense of humor — always enjoying new puns and putting smiles on the faces of those around him. We will all laugh thinking of his energy and enthusiasm in all things important to him — his family, his career, and the many students he mentored over the years.

He is survived by his wife Barbara, his children (Laura, Brian, and Mike), grandchildren (Hannah and Sam), and his sister Cathy.

To honor Dave, please consider contributing to the C. David Allis Mentorship Fund for Young Scientists: go.rockefeller.edu/allis-fund.

———

Nancy Johnston Mulford

Nancy Johnston Mulford, 85, of Skillman, NJ, died January 12, 2023 at Stonebridge at Montgomery, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. She was born October 28, 1937, in Oak Park, IL, the daughter of Herbert J. and Gladys Semple Johnston.

She graduated from Amundson High School, Chicago, and Park College (now Park University), Parkville, MO. She spent her junior year of college at International Christian University in Mitaka, Japan. She later attended McCormick Theological Seminary, Chicago.

In 1961, she married the Rev. David E. Mulford. They lived in Albany, NY, Chatham Township, NJ, and Vero Beach, FL, while her husband, a Presbyterian minister, served as the pastor of churches in those communities. In 1994, upon her husband’s retirement, they moved to Black Mountain, NC, where they lived for 12 years. In 2006, they moved to Stonebridge at Montgomery in Skillman, NJ.

Nancy was an active volunteer in every community in which she lived. While living in Chatham Township, she was active in American Field Service (a student exchange program) and served it as an area representative. She served on Parent-Teacher Association boards and was chair of the Friends of the Library of the Chathams. She was named an Outstanding Volunteer of Morris County, NJ, in 1983.

As a member of a Presbyterian church wherever she lived, she served churches as both a Deacon and an Elder. She was also a member and officer of P.E.O., a women’s organization dedicated to providing educational opportunities for women and belonged to chapters in New Jersey, Florida, and North Carolina. In Princeton, she was a member of Nassau Presbyterian Church and the Princeton Women’s
College Club.

Nancy and her husband enjoyed leading pre-retirement seminars for the Board of Pensions of the Presbyterian Church USA. She managed the Country Store at Stonebridge for many years, providing a resource for those unable to shop independently. Nancy shared her artistic and teaching gifts with many generations of children and adults, and was especially well known for her wonderful classes in creating Pysanky Ukrainian eggs. Her creative talents were endless and live on in those with whom she shared her creations and her talents.

Nancy is survived by her husband, David, of Skillman; son Stephen Mulford of Baltimore, MD; daughter and son-in-law, Ann and Dr. David Youmans of Princeton, NJ; grandchildren Carey and husband Ammar Shallal of Princeton, NJ, Avery and husband Andrew Sellers of Lusaka, Zambia, and Nicholas Youmans and partner Michael Collins of Brooklyn, NY. She is also survived by great-grandchildren Zayn and Remy Shallal and Owen Sellers. Her sister, Bonnie Jacobi of Fairview, NC also survives. In addition, she will be missed by a number of foreign students who have lived with the Mulfords and became very much a part of their family: from Sri Lanka, Samatha James, Niloo James Hennings, and June James Bechler and their families; Bambang Gunawan of Indonesia; and Erika Schoonhover-Lovera of the Netherlands.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at Nassau Presbyterian Church 61 Nassau Street, Princeton.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Nancy Mulford should be made to Nassau Presbyterian Church, 61 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ, 08542 or to Japan ICU (International Christian University) Foundation, Study Abroad Initiative, 475 Riverside Drive, Suite 439, NY, NY 10115 or jicuf.org.

Funeral arrangements are by Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

January 11, 2023

Dropping In

General Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and a Princeton University alum, makes a ceremonial puck drop before the Princeton University men’s hockey team took on Dartmouth last Saturday night. Milley ’80, a former Tiger hockey player, was on hand to take part in the “Hobey 100 Weekend,” celebrating the 100th year of the Hobey Baker Rink. Pictured with Milley, from left, are Dartmouth captain Tanner Palocsik, Princeton Director of Athletics John Mack, and Princeton captain Pito Walton. Coverage of the games and Milley’s visit starts on page 25. (Photo by Shelley Szwast, provided courtesy of Princeton Athletics)

Three Respiratory Viruses Remain a Threat

By Donald Gilpin

Flu, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and COVID-19 continue to spread throughout the region and the country.

The new COVID Omicron variant, XBB.1.5, which first appeared in the U. S. last fall, provides more evidence of COVID-19’s ability to evolve rapidly, as its many mutations help it to outmaneuver antibodies and immune defenses and spread broadly. XBB.1.5 currently accounts for more than 70 percent of all new COVID-19 cases in the northeast U.S.

Though cold weather and the holiday season invariably bring more outbreaks and viral spread as people gather indoors, fortunately the three viruses do not seem to rise and fall simultaneously.

Princeton Deputy Administrator for Health and Human Services Jeff Grosser explained the current status of epidemiological surveillance and the current outlook for Princeton and the region in facing the ongoing tripledemic.

“We certainly observed increases in respiratory illnesses in the weeks following both Thanksgiving and Christmas,” he wrote in an email.  The central west region of New Jersey, which includes Mercer County, was in low or moderate COVID-19 activity for most of November and December, he said, “But the last week of December we went to high and continue to sit there as of today (January 9).”

He continued, “Coupled with the high COVID-19 numbers we are seeing, flu rates throughout most of the fall were the highest we had seen in years. Fortunately, with the onslaught of new COVID-19 cases, we are beginning to see a decrease in flu and RSV cases.” more

PPS Dual Language Immersion Program Welcomes Applicants for 2023-2024

LEARNING LANGUAGES: Students at Community Park (CP) Elementary School eagerly engage in the Dual Language Immersion Program (DLI), learning in Spanish half the day and in English the other half. DLI Parent Information Sessions will be taking place at CP next week, with the program currently welcoming kindergarten and first grade applicants for 2023. (Photo courtesy of Princeton Public Schools)

By Donald Gilpin

The Princeton Public Schools (PPS) Dual Language Immersion (DLI) Program was labeled by the state as a model program when, after many years of planning and preparation, it was founded in 2015. In the years since, it has evolved, progressed, weathered the pandemic, and continued to expand under the leadership of committed administrators and passionate, capable teachers.

With the first DLI cohort that started in kindergarten and first grade now advancing through Princeton Middle School (PMS), the program, based at Community Park (CP) Elementary School, is announcing information sessions next week at CP on Wednesday, January 18, at 6:30 p.m. and on Thursday, January 19, at 9 a.m., and is accepting applications for the 2023-2024 school year.

“We’ve had nonstop visitors from around the state and outside the state coming to see our program,” said Priscilla Russel, district supervisor of world languages, ESL/bilingual, and dual language immersion programs. She has also traveled across the country observing other DLI programs and has led many professional development workshops.

“It’s really a wonderful way for children to acquire a second language,” she added. “One of the beauties of an immersion program is that the children are really acquiring language. It surrounds them. Their teachers are not speaking any English at all, but they are seeing pictures, using manipulatives, and doing math in Spanish.”

At CP most students enter the program in kindergarten or first grade, but it is open to all district students in kindergarten to fifth grade who demonstrate appropriate proficiency in Spanish. Students who enter the program prior to January of first grade do not need any specific language expertise. There are currently 257 students in the DLI program at CP and more than 80 at Princeton Middle School. more

Honoring Legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. with Special Events, Community Service

By Anne Levin

With a Community Bagel Breakfast in the morning, followed by a final “Naming Party” for the Romus Broadway photo collage project, and a reception for an exhibit of paintings by Aaron C. Fisher in the late afternoon, the Arts Council of Princeton (ACP) will be a busy place on Monday, January 16 — Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

The ACP is one of several sites in the area that will pay tribute to the late pioneer of civil rights, on the federal holiday marking his birthday. With scheduled talks, concerts, multifaith religious services, food drives, and more, there are a variety of opportunities in several locations to honor his legacy that day.

The speaker at the ACP’s 9 a.m. breakfast is Princeton University professor Tina Campt, a well-known Black feminist theorist of visual culture and contemporary art. Families are invited to pick up a copy of an updated, limited-edition coloring book featuring prominent Black residents of Princeton throughout history, including business owners, politicians, educators, and influential women, in addition to King’s visits to the University campus in the 1960s. The book was designed in partnership with the Historical Society of Princeton, Witherspoon-Jackson neighborhood historian Shirley Satterfield, and the University’s Wintersession. Participants are asked to bring canned or boxed non-perishables for a food drive to benefit Princeton Nursery School.

Once the bagels and coffee are cleared away, the photo collages will be moved in. The 11 a.m. “Naming Party” is the last of three gatherings devoted to identifying and preserving the names of friends, family, and community members pictured in collages by Broadway, who died in 2020. Some of these works have been displayed at various events at the ACP, most recently on vinyl banners hung from poles along Witherspoon-Jackson neighborhood streets. more

Marquand Park to Celebrate “StoryWalk,” a Different Way to Read a Book

READING ALONG THE TRAIL: Ansh Rana, behind the wheelbarrow, recently installed a “StoryWalk” at Marquand Park’s Rhododendron Trail with a group of helpers.

By Anne Levin

To earn the rank of Eagle Scout, members of the Boys Scouts and Girl Scouts of America must pass through seven rankings, complete an extensive service project, and survive a lengthy review process. Only a small percentage make it all the way through.

Among those working to achieve this distinction is Ansh Rana, a senior at South Brunswick High School and a member of Boy Scout Troop 90 in Kendall Park. Rana has based his Eagle Scout project at Princeton’s Marquand Park, a place he visited frequently as a child. “StoryWalk,” which displays pages from the children’s book Tap the Magic Tree by Christie Matheson along the park’s Rhododendron Trail, will have its official debut with a ribbon-cutting on Saturday, January 14 at 11 a.m.

“I’ve always loved reading,” Rana said. “This was a way to combine that with the experience of the outdoors, which is what the project is about.”

A scout since elementary school, Rana began thinking about the Eagle Scout project a few years ago. “During COVID, I was on a hike with my parents, and I saw it [a ‘StoryWalk’] at another park,” he said. “Then this past summer, I was at Marquand Park, and I was brainstorming. And it just came to me.”  more

Council Begins the New Year with Reorganization and Reports

NEW COUNCIL PRESIDENT: Mia Sacks, left, was sworn in as Princeton Council president by New Jersey Assemblywoman Sadaf Jaffer, right, at the governing body’s reorganization meeting on January 5.

By Anne Levin

Princeton Mayor Mark Freda got 2023 off to an auspicious start at Council’s annual reorganization meeting on Thursday, January 5 by noting that it was the 10th anniversary, to the day, of consolidation of the former Princeton Borough and Township. The town runs more efficiently as a result of that action, he said, and asked those in attendance who worked on consolidation to stand and acknowledge applause.

The annual reorganization meeting is a chance for each member of Council to summarize work over the previous year, and talk about goals for the upcoming 12 months. It also when a new president is elected — Mia Sacks takes over from outgoing president Leticia Fraga — and future plans are announced. Recently reelected members Sacks and Michelle Pirone Lambros were sworn in by State Sen. Andrew Zwicker, and Fraga and Councilman David Cohen said they will run for reelection when their current terms expire.

In her remarks, Sacks praised the governing body for fostering an atmosphere of “collaboration and collegiality as opposed to competition.” She mentioned several priorities for the coming year, including “eliminating exclusionary zoning and housing patterns that prevent lower income and communities of color from residing in safe, affordable homes and neighborhoods.” more

January 4, 2023

Honoring the Life of Longtime Resident Barbara Herzberg with a Tree in Central Park

To the Editor:

A dear and cherished friend of Princeton, Barbara Herzberg, passed away in October 24, 2022. She had been a longtime resident of Princeton and an active member of the community for many years. She was active with Princeton Community Players, Community Without Walls, and the Jewish Center of Princeton.

Town Topics profiled Barbara several years ago in an article entitled “Princeton Resident Barbara Herzberg Shares Love of Theater and Teaching” (see towntopics.com/jul2606/stratton.html).

Shakespeare spoke of the world being a stage and of the entrances and exits of its players. We all have our own story of her entrance into our lives, but we all share in the sorrow of her exit.

Many of us know of Barbara from her time as an educator, but she was so much more than her profession. She was a passionate student of art and a frisky world traveler. New York City provided the perfect learning environment for Barbara. She would often attend plays, made use of her subscription to the Met, and enjoyed winter carriage rides through Central Park, after the obligatory “hot toddy.”

A tree in Central Park will be endowed to represent the branches of learning and her name will be engraved into a granite paving stone. The stone will be placed upon the park’s Literary Walk, alongside statues of Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns, and Shakespeare.

She led a full life and deserves to have an everlasting legacy. Please give, so that we may reach our $5,000 goal and honor the life of such a cherished friend and her shuffle from this mortal coil.

You may donate at http://support.centralparknyc.org/goto/Barbara_Herzberg.

RON KELLY
Gulick Road

Obituaries 1/4/2023

Phyllis Apple

Phyllis Apple, who turned 100 on November 30, 2022, died peacefully at her home in Princeton, NJ, on December 27, 2022 in the warm embrace of her family. Phyllis moved to Princeton to be close to her daughter Sharon Rose Powell and son-in-law Bob Powell. She had retired several years earlier at the age of 88 as the founder and head of The Apple Organization, a PR firm in South Florida which she ran for 30 years.

In a large feature article in the Miami Herald on the day of her burial service in Charlotte, NC, Phyllis was described as the “queen of real estate” who “put Miami on the map as an international destination” in the 1990s. In her last year as CEO in 2009, the Apple Organization was voted “Best PR Company in the Americas” by a joint collaboration of CNBC and the New York Times.

Effervescent and known to light up a room with her charm and charisma, Apple had also received the first ever Lifetime Achievement Award from the South Florida Business Journal — “an honor that crystallized her iconic stature in the world of real estate.” She shared with the Journal one of her tips on longevity: “A positive attitude can keep you young. Stay away from negativity.”

Phyllis Apple, at 91, brought her can-do positivity to Princeton when she moved to her condo in an 1830s house that had been recently renovated by Sharon and Bob. Phyllis was also blessed to live in the same town as her granddaughter Katharine Powell Roman and husband Ben Roman, and her three great-grandchildren Sam, Gabe, and Audrey Roman. Grandson Robert Powell, formerly of Princeton and now residing in Los Angeles with his husband Jerran Friedman, visited her frequently.

Affectionately known as Grandmommy to all of her five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, Phillis is also survived by her son Robert Rose and wife Carolyn Rose of Charlotte, NC, and her daughter Susan Marcus and husband Steve Marcus of Amherst, MA.

Phyllis, who was called a “force of nature” by family, friends, and colleagues, began her life as Phyllis Lila Blackman from humble beginnings in Newark, NJ. She joined the Navy as a WAVE in World War II after graduating from Weequahic High School; and married her first husband Lt. Commander Albert Rose from Durham, NC, after the war. The Rose family settled in Greensboro, NC, to raise their three children. Phyllis and her second husband, Bernard Apple of New York City, lived in Charlotte, NC, where Phyllis continued to volunteer for numerous Jewish and community organizations. Phyllis and Bernard moved to North Miami Beach; and at 58 and no longer married, Phyllis launched her professional career in PR at an age when many started planning for their retirement.

In the last decade of her life in Princeton, Phyllis stayed active and relished the many opportunities to attend plays at McCarter; concerts at Richardson Hall; Planned Parenthood and Princton Library fundraisers; lectures at the Potluck Society; and golf at Springdale Golf Club. In addition, she played mahjong with two different groups of friends every week, one of which she organized soon after arriving in Princeton. Phyllis could be seen walking her maltese dog Lucky in town every day in every season. Her laughter, active life, warm smile, and deep love and devotion to her family will always be remembered.

Phyllis was buried at Hebrew Cemetery in Charlotte, NC, on December 30, and received military honors. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her name may be sent to give.feedingamerica.org.

———

Jeffrey Bechler

Jeffrey Bechler, MD, of Princeton passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Thursday, December 29, 2022, due to cancer at the age of 63.

Jeff grew up in California and attended Palos Verdes High School, where he played football, basketball, and baseball and met the love of his life, Mary, at a high school dance. He then attended Dartmouth College, majoring in economics and playing baseball. Jeff went on to earn his medical degree from New York Medical College, completed his internship and residency at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, and completed a fellowship in sports medicine at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic in Los Angeles.

After three years practicing orthopaedics in San Diego following his fellowship, Jeff and Mary moved to Princeton in 1996, where Jeff joined University Orthopaedic Associates, specializing in sports medicine. Jeff served as the orthopaedic consultant and team physician for Princeton University, enthusiastically standing on the sideline at Princeton football games for over 20 years. Jeff was one of the rare few who joined a passion to a profession, and everyone he met benefited from it.

Jeff will be remembered as a loving husband and father as well as a friend, doctor, and coach. Those closest to him will fondly recall him for his selflessness, loyalty, and quick wit. Many treasured memories of Jeff have a connection to sports. He had a lifelong love for sports — playing, watching, coaching, and caring for athletes. Many people will remember their interactions around his kitchen table, where friends, neighbors, and athletes would ask his off-the-clock medical advice on their latest injuries. His calm reassurance and special sense of humor made him everyone’s first call.

Jeff is survived by his wife Mary; children Christopher (Olivia), Katelyn, and Scott; father Thomas; brother Scott (Susan); sister Kim; brothers-in-law Bill (Emma) King and Robert (Andrea) King; sisters-in-law Dede King, Tricia (Fred) Kosmo, Debbie (Steve) Killman, Deirdre Neely, Eileen (Mark) Gillis; 19 nieces and nephews; and was predeceased by his mother Barbara Bechler.

A Memorial Service is planned for 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 7 at Nassau Presbyterian Church in Princeton. A reception will follow at The Bedens Brook Club in Skillman.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes contributions to Nassau Presbyterian Church (nassauchurch.org/giving/give-now/) or to ALK-positive lung cancer research (fundraise.lungevity.org/campaign/In-Loving-Memory-of-Dr-Jeffrey-Bechler).

———

Richard William Knott
5/3/61 – 12/22/22

Richard William Knott, 61, graduated from Temple University with a degree in accounting and later received an MBA from the University of Virginia. Over the years, Richard worked for the United States Postal Service, Prudential Investments, Oppenheimer Funds, and SEI Corporation. While at Oppenheimer Funds, Richard survived the 9/11 attacks on The World Trade Center, and many colleagues credit Richard for saving their lives by insisting everyone evacuate the building after the first plane struck.

Richard is survived by his two sons, Conor Knott and Quinn Knott; their mother Angela Knott; and his two brothers, Bruce Knott and John Knott. Richard’s parents, Richard J. Knott and Margaret T. Knott preceded him in death.

Richard had a successful career in finance. However, what really gave Richard joy was his love for family, especially his two boys. On many occasions, Richard arranged a vacation home for his extended family during multiple summers in the Outer Banks, NC. It was important for him to provide the family a special place to be together and have fun. Richard also gave generously of his time and talents to various community organizations, most notably as a trustee for Princeton Little League and Princeton Academy of the Sacred Heart.

Richard loved sports. He coached both of his sons’ little league teams every year of their little league careers. Richard also made a point to bring his sons to various professional sporting events, and in particular enjoyed seeing as many different professional baseball parks as possible with his family when traveling. A highlight for Richard was visiting the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY, with his family. Richard enjoyed golf and shared that love with his sons.

Richard had a very energetic spirit, was thoughtful and generous, and possessed a kind and happy demeanor. He liked to make his family and friends laugh. His mother used to say, “Before Richard’s toe reached the floor each morning, he was teasing his brothers.” Richard spent nearly his entire life focused on other people around him, making sure to be there for his family and friends whenever he could.

A public service to celebrate his life will be held at Trinity Episcopal Church in Princeton on Friday, January 6, 2023 at 2:30 p.m. Reception to follow at the church.

———

Mary Glenn Smith

Mary Glenn Smith died at home on December 28, 2022 at the age of 93. We are grateful that she was able to spend Christmas with her family and we thank the staff at Stonebridge for their care.

Daughter of the late Frederick and Maryon Lobdell, Mary Glenn (Mickie to many of her friends) was born in Maine on February 2, 1929. She spent much of her childhood in New Rochelle, NY, and on the family farm in Cambridge, NY. She received her bachelor’s degree from Colby College where she met her husband, Guy. They married in 1952 and started the family that was the center of her life.

In 1965 Mary Glenn and Guy moved to Hillsborough, NJ, where they raised their family. She was an active member of the community. As a cancer survivor, she was particularly proud of her volunteer work with the American Cancer Society and also the Woman’s Club of Hillsborough where she was tasked with awarding scholarships to deserving students. They were parishioners at St. Paul’s Church in Princeton for many years.

Later in life, while living in West Windsor, Mary Glenn was an active member of St. David’s Parish. She sang in the choir and volunteered in the Parish Food Pantry.

Mary Glenn loved spending time with family, going to her beach house on Long Beach Island, traveling to Vermont, antiquing, crossword puzzles, baking, and knitting. She will be remembered as a beautiful, friendly, charismatic woman who brightened the lives of those around her with her beautiful smile.

She was predeceased by her husband, H. Guy Smith in 2005 and her daughter, Margaret. She is survived by her five children, Leslie Taulbee (Dennis), Pamela Farr (Doug), Timothy Smith, (Michelle LaRoche), Katie Lynch (Gerard), Molly Shuck (Scot); 16 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; her brother Brian Lobdell (Joanne); and dear friends, the Lump family.

Visitation will be on Saturday, January 7, 2023 at Kimble Funeral Home, 1 Hamilton Avenue, Princeton, NJ 08542 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Paul Parish, 214 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ at 11 a.m.

Entombment will be at Holy Cross Burial Park Mausoleum, East Brunswick (Jamesburg), NJ.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or at donate3.cancer.org.

Holiday Generosity

An overwhelming number of people donated to the 2022 Princeton Human Services Holiday Gift Drive, making the season brighter for children and families in need.

“What Remains” Dual Exhibition at Arts Council of Princeton

“ORIGINAL FACE #13”: This work by Hetty Baiz is featured in “What Remains,” an exhibition of large-scale weavings and wall-hanging constructions by Baiz and Laura Duerwald, on view January 7 through February 4 at the Arts Council of Princeton’s Taplin Gallery. An opening reception is on Saturday, January 7 from 3-5 p.m.

The Arts Council of Princeton (ACP) presents “What Remains,” an exhibition of figurative weaving and non-objective constructions by artists Hetty Baiz and Laura Duerwald, on view in the ACP’s Taplin Gallery January 7 through February 4. The public is invited to an opening reception on Saturday, January 7 from 3-5 p.m.

Baiz and Duerwald have developed cohesive bodies of original work that convey potent visual sensibilities and intriguing affinities. This exhibition focuses on the artists’ shared interest in repetitive processes, their use of organic nontraditional materials, and on the tension and harmony between their work.
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Gallery 14 in Hopewell Hosts “2023 Juried Exhibit”

“INSPIRED”: This work by Vince Pellegrini is among 38 photographs selected by a jury panel for the “2023 Juried Exhibit,” on view January 14 through February 5 at Gallery 14 Fine Art Photography in Hopewell.

Gallery 14 Fine Art Photography presents its “2023 Juried Exhibit” from January 14 through February 5.

“It is always exciting to see the work of new and emerging photographers, as well as work by more established photographers.” said John Clarke, the exhibit curator.

This exhibit includes 38 photographs selected by a jury panel from over 120 submitted works. The three jurors for the exhibit are John Stritzinger, Richard Lewis, and Charlann Meluso, who all commented on the overall quality of the entries and the difficulty of selecting the final pieces. The full gamut of photographic possibilities was covered by the entries. The judges were tasked with selecting the images to be included in the exhibit and selecting three award winners. Entries were received from several states in the mid-Atlantic area.

The exhibit will open on January 14 from 11-4 p.m. The top award winners will be announced between 1 and 3 p.m. The exhibit will continue until February 5.

Gallery 14 Fine Art Photography is a co-op gallery located at 14 Mercer Street in Hopewell. Hours are 11–4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, and by appointment with an email to galleryfourteen@yahoo.com. For more information, visit Gallery14.org.

Princeton Makes Artists’ Exhibit at Small World Coffee

“COBAIN”: This painting by Renata Pugh is part of an exhibition highlighting the works of the artists of Princeton Makes, on view at Small World Coffee, 14 Witherspoon Street, through February 7. An opening reception is on January 6 from 5-7 p.m.

The artists of Princeton Makes, the Princeton-based artist cooperative, are hosting an exhibition of their work at Small World Coffee, 14 Witherspoon Street, through February 7. An opening reception will be held on January 6 from 5-7 p.m., featuring live music by Zeke Levine and an opportunity to meet the artists showing their work in the exhibition. All works will be available for purchase.

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December 28, 2022

Death of Princeton Student is Determined a Suicide

Misrach Ewunetie (Princeton University)

The death in October of Princeton University student Misrach Ewunetie has been ruled a suicide.

The Middlesex County Medical Examiner’s Office released an autopsy report Wednesday, December 28 on the 20-year-old member of the Class of 2024, who was missing for nearly a week before her body was discovered on October 20 near the University’s tennis courts.

“The cause of death was determined to be Buproprion, Escitalopram, and Hydroxyzine Toxicity,” according to a release from the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office.

Ewunetie, who was on full scholarship, had come to this country from Ethiopia as a child, and was valedictorian of her high school class in Cleveland. She was last seen by a suitemate at the Scully Hall dormitory at 3 a.m. on Friday, October 14, brushing her teeth. She had been out late, volunteering at an event at Terrace, the eating club to which she belonged.

Her family contacted the University on Sunday, October 16 after she missed a scheduled appointment for her American citizenship application the day before.

When issuing the release, Casey A. DeBlasio, public information officer for the prosecutor, said, “Out of respect for Ms. Ewunetie’s family, and at their request, the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office will not be providing additional information.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, help is available 24/7 at the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which can be reached by dialing 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org.

Emerging From Pandemic, Princeton Plans Its Future

“SUPPORT UKRAINE”: Demonstrators gathered in front of Nassau Presbyterian Church in March at a Peace in Ukraine vigil, sponsored by the Princeton-based Coalition for Peace Action. The crowd spilled over from Palmer Square’s Tiger Park across the street. (Photo by Charles R. Plohn)

By Donald Gilpin and Anne Levin

Moving into the new year, most Princeton residents and visitors have taken off their masks and are looking to establish a “new normal,” despite health officials’ warnings and signs of a winter “tripledemic” of COVID-19, along with rising flu and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) cases. 

Though Princeton continues to suffer from pandemic fatigue, and COVID-19 is likely to provide another surprise or two in the coming year, many signs point to a town emerging from the debilitating affliction.

Conflict was widespread in Princeton in 2022. “Without contraries is no progression,” William Blake wrote more than 230 years ago, and many of the stories that will be remembered from the past year in Princeton involve contraries, conflicts — some continuing into 2023, but many resolved — and much progress.

Princeton Council returned to in-person meetings in September, though the Zoom option remained and provided welcome access for many.  Likewise for workers, shoppers, and businesses, many transitioned back to live physical attendance, but a hybrid mode — part remote —prevailed.

Political activity and citizen engagement remained at a high level in Princeton throughout the year, with demonstrations in opposition to hate and bigotry and in support of Ukraine, voters’ rights, gun legislation, abortion rights, and more.

The town is moving towards a new master plan, with extensive community involvement and input on the future of Princeton. Affordable housing projects moved forward in 2022, at least some of the parking issues have been resolved, a new waste disposal collection system is in place, and in February Council approved a Special Improvement District (SID), establishing a nonprofit Princeton Business Partnership to support the downtown.

In May the hotly disputed question of retail cannabis sale in Princeton was resolved, when Council decided that the cons outweigh the pros, at least for now.  more

Thanks to All Who Supported Princeton Merchants Association, Local Businesses

To the Editor:

As 2022 comes to a close, and our stores, restaurants, and cafes are filled with holiday cheer while we work around the clock to serve our vibrant Princeton community, I wanted to take a moment to express my sincerest thanks and gratitude to all who supported the Princeton Merchants Association (PMA) and the Princeton business community at large over the course of this year. We are grateful for each and every one of you.

The PMA has worked tirelessly through the years to serve the businesses who in turn play such an important role in serving our community, and we are proud of the many ways in which we have been able to make a positive impact. However, as you may be aware, we are now at a time of transition with the newly-formed Princeton Business Partnership (aptly named “Experience Princeton”) taking the mantle of supporting the Princeton business community through the structure of a Special Improvement District. The Partnership has hired Isaac Kremer as its full-time executive director, and many of our current PMA board members are transitioning to the board of the Partnership, as well.

With the creation of the Partnership, the PMA is wrapping up our work and officially ending our operations at year-end. While we will no longer work as an official organization, our board members and I will continue to champion the spirit of “for merchants, by merchants” as we take on leadership roles at the new Partnership. more

December 21, 2022

PPS Plans Four New Preschools for 2023

CLOSING ACHIEVEMENT GAPS: Students in Christina Maloney’s preschool class at Johnson Park School are learning fast in preparation for kindergarten. Princeton Public Schools has announced that it will be opening four new preschools in September 2023. (Photo courtesy of Princeton Public Schools)

By Donald Gilpin

High quality preschools have proven to be a key element in closing achievement gaps for students who come from disadvantaged backgrounds, and Princeton Public Schools (PPS) has announced that it will be expanding its free public preschool program in September 2023 by adding four new classes and increasing the number of preschool students from 90 to 150.

“High quality preschools —they have to be high quality — is a game changer in terms of equity,” said PPS Supervisor of Preschool and Special Projects Valerie Ulrich. “Kids who otherwise would not have exposure to that kind of environment come into kindergarten already with an achievement gap. By offering free public preschool, especially for families that come from those kinds of backgrounds, we close that achievement gap before it even starts in kindergarten.”

The PPS began expanding its preschool program in 2019 when the district gained preschool expansion aid from the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) through a competitive process. High quality preschool has been a priority of New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy’s administration, and the NJDOE will be providing $3 million in additional preschool aid to support the four new classrooms.

Ulrich added that money invested in high quality early childhood programs pays off in the long run, with fewer kids needing special education or extra support in reading or elsewhere in the elementary school program. more

Gas-Powered Leaf Blower Ban Resumes Until Next March

By Donald Gilpin

Last Friday, December 16, was the first day of the winter ban on the use of gas-powered leaf blowers, which will remain in effect through March 14, 2023, when it will be lifted for a two-month period before it returns from May 16 to September 30.

During the ban “residents and landscapers shall use only electric or battery-powered leaf blowers for leaf and debris-blowing needs. Property owners and their landscape contractors are co-responsible to reduce the amount of noise and air pollution and to achieve more sustainable landscaping practices in our community,” according to the ordinance adopted unanimously by Princeton Council in October 2021 after nearly a year of deliberations.

The community compliance officer has reported that 30 landscapers and 74 homeowners have received notice of violations since June. Most expressed willingness to comply without resistance. Some stated that they were not aware of the new ordinance. Landscape contractors were frustrated by the ban, the compliance officer said, but they are doing their best to comply.

“No fines have been imposed this year,” she said, though, in accordance with the ordinance, a number of warnings have been issued. “This year we considered a learning year. There were challenges this year with supply chains, increased demand, and equipment malfunction, which meant landscape contractors who were working to comply either couldn’t get the equipment or their new equipment was in service for only a very short time.”

She continued, “For landscapers it’s a matter of changing their mindsets. It’s not simple, not a one-to-one change from gas to electric. It’s not just a matter of changing leaf blowers. It’s changing a mindset.” more