Princeton Packet

Devils Captain Nico Hischier Records First Career Hat Trick in Thrilling Win Against Nashville Predators

Nico Hischier had a night to remember, and honestly, so did every single fan in the Prudential Center. Monday night wasn’t just another game—it was the game where the Devils’ captain finally hit that elusive milestone: his first career hat trick. It was like the hockey gods smiled down and said, “This is your moment, […]

Princeton Packet

How NJ Economy Challenges Reshaped Political Loyalties This Election

New Jersey surprised everyone in the 2024 election. A state that’s usually solidly Democratic showed a clear shift to the right. While Donald Trump didn’t win New Jersey, he came closer than anyone expected, and Republicans gained ground in areas that had been blue for decades. Though this shift wasn’t random—it’s the result of real […]

Princeton Packet

Examining the 2024 Election: Has Climate Change Been Overlooked in Favor of Other Priorities?

After all the debates, speeches, ads, and promises, the 2024 U.S. election is finally over. Everyone’s been talking about immigration, the economy, reproductive rights, and national security. However, one major topic seemed to disappear during the election season: climate change. Even with all the wild hurricanes, terrible floods, and record-breaking temperatures, climate policies got much […]

Princeton Packet

The State We’re In 1/25: Eat better, avoid cancer, reduce climate change impacts

By Michele S. Byers What does organic farming have to do with climate change, cancer, nutrition and food security? Plenty, according to Stephanie Harris, president of the Northeast Organic Farming Association of New Jersey (NOFA-NJ). The connect is “regenerative agriculture,” an organic growing method that pulls carbon from the atmosphere and stores it in the […]

Princeton Packet

Hopes and Concerns of Young Black Voters in New Jersey for the 2024 Election

With the 2024 election coming up fast, young Black voters are feeling hopeful yet doubtful. They care about important issues like student debt, climate change, fair wages, and police reform, but many feel like their voices aren’t being heard or acted upon. They’re a generation that wants change, but after years of promises with little […]

Princeton Packet

New Jersey’s $56.6 Billion Budget for FY 2025: Tax Hikes, Property Tax Relief, and Investments

Governor Phil Murphy signed the new $56.6 billion state budget for New Jersey, which includes a significant tax increase on large corporations and substantial funding for property tax relief, public schools, pensions, and community projects. Key Takeaways: New Jersey’s $56.6 Billion State Budget New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed a $56.6 billion spending plan that […]

Princeton Packet

Experience the Heartfelt Stories of Jersey Through ‘Dancing Together: A Ballad’ Art Exhibition

Dancing Together: A Ballad is bringing art, stories, and community together in Jersey. Finnish artist Kaarina Kaikkonen, known for turning everyday items into amazing art, teamed up with ArtHouse Jersey for this special project. It started as an outdoor display over Charing Cross in St Helier and is now being changed into an indoor exhibition […]

Princeton Packet

‘We have an obligation to innovate responsibly’

The first New Jersey Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summit not only convened business leaders, academics and government officials to foster conversations about AI innovation in New Jersey, but also AI in areas of work force development to health. The summit, which was hosted by Princeton University on campus, in partnership with Gov. Phil Murphy and the […]

Princeton Packet

New Jersey’s Job Market in 2024: Layoffs, Challenges, and Growing Opportunities

New Jersey is experiencing a tough job market right now, especially compared to the rest of the country. While the U.S. added 254,000 new jobs in September 2024, New Jersey lost 5,358 jobs in its private sector during the third quarter alone. That’s a big jump from the 4,130 jobs cut in the previous quarter. […]

Princeton Packet

In-Depth Analysis of the First Debate of the N.J. U.S. Senate Race Between Andy Kim and Curtis Bashaw

The race for New Jersey’s Senate seat is in the spotlight this year, with Democrat Andy Kim and Republican Curtis Bashaw competing for a spot in the Senate. The seat opened up after Bob Menendez resigned following his conviction on corruption charges. Governor Phil Murphy appointed George Helmy to fill the seat temporarily, but Helmy […]

Princeton Packet

Prioritize child safety in Witherspoon project now

While I appreciate that Witherspoon St is a ‘work in progress’ it also need to be fit-for-purpose in the moment. School is back in session, and 100s of kids are crossing Witherspoon St everyday. The current condition of the road, and in particular crosswalks, is putting their lives in danger. The situation needs urgent action […]

Princeton Packet

Aftermath of the 4.8 Magnitude New Jersey Earthquake that Shook the Northeast on April 2024

On April 5, 2024, at 10:23 AM EDT, a seismic event of magnitude 4.8 rattled Tewksbury Township, New Jersey, sending shockwaves through the state and beyond. Tremors from this earthquake were felt in the New York metropolitan area, the Delaware Valley, and even Virginia. Despite its broad impact, the earthquake in NJ caused minimal structural […]

Princeton Packet

From NIMBY to YIMBY: A Historical Approach to Transforming New Jersey’s Affordable Housing Policies

In 1975, the state of New Jersey passed the Mount Laurel Doctrine, a constitutional obligation requiring all NJ municipalities to provide their fair share of affordable housing. As NJ prepares to enter yet another cycle of affordable housing policy nearly three decades later (with the implementation of its Fourth Round), the sociocultural sentiments immersed within […]

Princeton Packet

Hit the ‘trail’ and learn about New Jersey’s Black history

by Jay Watson, Co-Executive Director, New Jersey Conservation Foundation James Still always wanted to become a doctor, but as a Black child in the 1800s, never had the opportunity to go to medical school. Undeterred, he learned to make botanical extracts from native plants, and studied books on anatomy, physiology, botany and medicine. Still became […]

Princeton Packet

Saving money, helping the climate, aiding justice

by Alison Mitchell, Co-Executive Director, New Jersey Conservation Foundation Interested in saving money on home energy bills? How about helping to fight climate change by reducing your carbon footprint? Or ensuring that the New Jersey communities most affected by environmental pollution get justice and help? If so, the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton Police blotter

A 35-year-old Trenton man was arrested on an outstanding warrant from Millstone Township Municipal Court following a motor vehicle stop on Nassau Street May 17. He was processed and released. A shoplifter stole $676.92 worth of alcoholic beverages from a store on North Harrison Street May 17. The shoplifter took the bottles from the shelves […]

Princeton Packet

Common calendar, Packet papers, May 24

Burlington, Mercer, Middlesex, and Somerset counties New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), a division of New York Blood Center, which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers. The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of our team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/or at the refreshment area. No […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton Council adopts 2024 municipal budget

The Princeton Council adopted its $74.5 million municipal budget for 2024, following a public hearing April 29. The municipal property tax rate will increase from 56 cents per $100 of assessed value to 58 cents. The owner of a house assessed at the town average of $853,136 will pay $4,948 in municipal property taxes. A […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton Council extends dog park at Community Park for one more year

The Princeton Community Dog Park at Community Park South will remain open indefinitely while officials continue to explore locations for a permanent dog park. The temporary dog park was set to expire earlier this month, but the Princeton Council adopted a resolution at its April 29 meeting to extend the park indefinitely. The temporary dog […]

Princeton Packet

Public hearing on apartment building at historic Joseph Horner House canceled

The Princeton Planning Board’s May 23 special meeting to consider 344 Nassau LLC’s application to construct a 15-unit apartment building attached to the historic Joseph Horner House has been canceled. A new date for the public hearing on the developer’s application has not been set. The Princeton Historic Preservation Commission declined to endorse the proposed […]

Princeton Packet

Migrating birds from the tropics returning to New Jersey

by Jay Watson, Co-Executive Director, New Jersey Conservation Foundation “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” according to a Chinese proverb. But in the avian world, journeys can last well over a thousand miles – and begin with a flap rather than a step! Each spring, birds known as “neotropical migrants” […]

Princeton Packet

Pro-Palestine encampment ends at Princeton University

Princeton University students’ pro-Palestine/anti-Israel encampment came to an end on May 15, less than three weeks after the students began a sit-in protest on April 25. Cannon Green behind Nassau Hall, where the students held their sit-in for 17 of those days, is empty of lawn chairs, umbrellas, tables, signs and posters set up by […]

Princeton Packet

‘We need both natural lands and playgrounds, sports fields’

In calling for the “preservation” of “half” of New Jersey’s land (https://centraljersey.com/2024/05/06/an-urgent-call-to-preserve-half-of-new-jerseys-land/), Jay Watson and the New Jersey Conservation Foundation are misleading your readers. What they’re including as “preserved land” includes a high portion of playgrounds and sports fields. These are well and good, indeed excellent and much needed, but the article would lead the reader […]

Princeton Packet

Common calendar, Packet papers, May 17

Burlington, Mercer, Middlesex, and Somerset counties New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), a division of New York Blood Center, which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers. The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of our team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/or at the refreshment area. No […]

Princeton Packet

‘It is insensitive’

The Princeton Historic Preservation Commission has declined to endorse a proposal to construct a 15-unit apartment building that would be attached to the historic Joseph Horner House at 344 Nassau St. However, the Historic Preservation Commission left open an opportunity for the developer, 344 Nassau LLC, to work with officials to modify the design of […]

Princeton Packet

‘It brings out the little boy in me’

The Princeton Council gave final approval to a pair of ordinances to purchase the 90-acre Lanwin Development Corp. property on the Princeton Ridge for $9.1 million. The purchase brings an end to Lanwin Development Corp.’s years-long effort to seek approval to subdivide the land into 29 building lots for single-family homes. Supporters of the purchase […]

Princeton Packet

‘This is magic’

Ground has officially broken for the Princeton Plasma Innovation Center (PPIC), a new laboratory facility at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL). The PPPL, a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) national research laboratory, is managed by Princeton University and has had a focus on fusion energy. The groundbreaking on May 9 marks more than 40 years […]

Princeton Packet

Housing Initiatives of Princeton seeks donated cars for clients

Housing Initiatives of Princeton (HIP) is seeking donors who have an extra or unneeded car to donate for clients who need one to get to work. HIP helps low-income working families and individuals avoid homelessness by providing transitional housing and temporary rental assistance. It also offers supportive services to help clients get back on their […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton High School students win national prize in Samsung competition

Princeton High School was named one of three national winners in the 14th annual Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition earning a $100,000 prize package for its efforts. The Princeton High School students Mayda Jiguan, Sofia Son and Hayah Mian won the award for developing an AI (Artificial Intelligence)-powered robotic stuffed animal that helped preserve some […]

Princeton Packet

Annual bike drive nets over 150 bikes

Over 150 bikes were donated from all over the county and surrounding area as Mercer County’s Park Commission and Planning Department hosted their fourth annual Bike Drive for the benefit of the Mercer County Bike Exchange (BEX) and Boys & Girls Club (BGC). BEX is a volunteer-run organization whose primary objective is to raise funds that support after-school programs […]

Princeton Packet

An ‘ode’ to New Jersey’s dragonflies and damselflies

by Alison Mitchell, Co-Executive Director, New Jersey Conservation Foundation If you’re near a pond, stream, or marsh on a warm day, you may notice quick-flying insects skimming across the water or swooping and darting through the air. When they alight, you may be dazzled by their brightly-colored bodies and double sets of lacy wings. They’re […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton Police blotter

A 26-year-old Hamilton Township man was arrested on an outstanding warrant from the Elizabeth Police Department after he was stopped for speeding on North Harrison Street May 6. He was processed and turned over to the Elizabeth Police Department. A 33-year-old Trenton woman was arrested on an outstanding warrant for $1,500 from the North Brunswick […]

Princeton Packet

West Windsor Police blotter

A South Brunswick Township man was charged with driving while intoxicated following a two-car crash on Route 1 near Carnegie Center Boulevard at 12:03 a.m. March 29. He suffered minor injuries and was taken to the hospital for treatment. A Highland Park man was charged with driving while intoxicated after his vehicle was observed swerving […]

Princeton Packet

Baltimore man charged with creating fake license plates

A Baltimore couple has been charged with various offenses after the man was allegedly observed printing out fake license plates at Staples March 20, according to the West Windsor Police Department. Police were sent to investigate a suspicious vehicle parked in a handicap parking space without license plates. A police officer spoke to a woman […]

Princeton Packet

Best Buy employee charged with shoplifting

A Best Buy employee was charged with shoplifting for allegedly stealing items valued at nearly $6,000 from the store on Nassau Park Boulevard March 20, according to the West Windsor Police Department. The man, who lives in Trenton, allegedly stuffed the items in his backpack while he was at work on Feb. 28, March 7 […]

Princeton Packet

Depression and suicide risk can intensify in spring and summer

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Intense symptoms for individuals with depression are commonly associated with the winter and holiday season, depression and suicidal thoughts are actually more common in the spring and summer. For example, pressure to socialize when warmer weather makes it more possible may be particularly stressful for individuals with depression, as […]

Princeton Packet

Common calendar, Packet papers, May 10

Burlington, Mercer, Middlesex, and Somerset counties New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), a division of New York Blood Center, which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers. The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of our team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/or at the refreshment area. No […]

Princeton Packet

Subdivision application hearing on Jefferson Road continues May 16

A minor subdivision application for a property on the corner of Jefferson Road and Cuyler Road drew major opposition from neighbors at the Princeton Planning Board’s April 18 meeting. The board heard about two hours of testimony on applicant Estate Shore LLC’s proposal to subdivide the property at 479 Jefferson Road into two smaller building […]

Princeton Packet

Montgomery school board adopts $114 million budget

Montgomery Township Board of Education members have adopted a $114 million budget that funds school district operations for the 2024-25 school year following a public hearing on April 30. “The biggest drivers of our appropriations are going to be instruction (regular and special) and also employee benefits,” said Jack Trent, business administrator for the Montgomery […]

Princeton Packet

‘It will set the precedent’

The Joseph Horner House at 344 Nassau St., which is threatened by development, has been included on Preservation New Jersey’s list of the “10 Most Endangered Historic Places in New Jersey” for 2024. The house on the northeast corner of Nassau Street and North Harrison Street was built in the 1760s by Joseph Horner. He […]

Princeton Packet

‘Eating healthy will give you more sustainable energy’

Mary Abitanto believes in celebrating nature’s harvest and living a healthy lifestyle. “Eating healthy will give you more sustainable energy to do the things you love,” she said. Abitanto has thrown that belief into her newest cookbook “Nourish – Celebrating Nature’s Harvest & A Healthy Lifestyle,” which launched last month. “This book was created to […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton school district ‘taking a stand against antisemitism’

The Princeton Public Schools is gearing up to tackle antisemitism in the district through education and by encouraging students to report antisemitic incidents, in the wake of rising antisemitism and Jew-hatred nationwide. Parents raised the issue of antisemitism in a letter to administrators in November 2023. The topic has been discussed by the school board’s […]

Princeton Packet

An urgent call to preserve half of New Jersey’s land

by Jay Watson, Co-Executive Director, New Jersey Conservation Foundation New Jersey is not only the nation’s most densely populated state, it’s also predicted to be the first to reach full build-out – the point where all land has been either developed or preserved. If current trends continue, full build-out could occur by the middle of […]

Princeton Packet

West Windsor police blotter

Four North Brunswick Township residents were charged with shoplifting for allegedly taking food and other merchandise from Wegman’s on March 7. They allegedly filled shopping carts with merchandise and pushed them out of the store. They were processed and released. Cash, jewelry and other items were stolen from a Cranbury Road home on March 6. […]

Princeton Packet

Common calendar, Packet papers, May 3

Burlington, Mercer, Middlesex, and Somerset counties New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), a division of New York Blood Center, which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers. The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of our team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/or at the refreshment area. No […]

Princeton Packet

‘I love seeing this enthusiasm in science’

Whether it was learning about a supercomputer, earthquakes or how clouds form, students and families – through hands-on activities – experienced different areas of science at the second annual “Spring Into Science.” “Spring Into Science” returned to Princeton University’s campus inside the Frick Chemistry Laboratory building and Princeton Neuroscience Institute (PNI) on April 20. “The […]

Princeton Packet

Second phase of Witherspoon Street improvement project complete

With a ceremonial snip of the ribbon, Princeton officials celebrated the completion of the second phase of the Witherspoon Street improvement project April 25. Mayor Mark Freda and Princeton Council members David Cohen, Leighton Newlin and Michelle Pirone Lambros officially re-opened a six-block section of Witherspoon Street, between Green Street and Leigh Avenue. The improvements […]

Princeton Packet

‘This is a big day’

For his 101st birthday, Donald Stern flew around the Verrazzano Bridge towards the Freedom Towers and circled the Statue of Liberty in a small aircraft. The skies are familiar territory for the World War (WW) II Air Force veteran. He flew 32 combat missions in a B-17 Flying Fortress with the 817th Squadron of the […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton University students attempt sit-in at Clio Hall in support of Palestine

Around 200 Princeton University undergraduate and graduate students marked the fifth day of a pro-Palestinian sit-in on campus with an attempt to take over Clio Hall April 29, according to published reports. The pro-Palestinian sit-in began April 25, when students gathered in McCosh Courtyard, next to the Princeton University Chapel. The sit-in was intended to […]

Princeton Packet

Mercer County offers internship opportunities

Applications are now open for the 2024 Mercer County Student Internship Program. High school and college students who live, or attend school, in Mercer County may apply to a wide range of full-time and part-time internship positions. Internship opportunities are available over the summer from June through Labor Day, with a limited number of spots also available over the Winter Break […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton University students hold pro-Palestinian sit-in

Princeton University undergraduate and graduate students gathered for a pro-Palestinian sit-in on campus early on April 25 in a show of solidarity with similar sit-ins and protests at colleges and universities across the United States. The first students began setting up tents in the McCosh Courtyard around 7 a.m., according to published reports in The […]

Princeton Packet

Explore D&R Canal State Park during 50th celebration!

by Alison Mitchell, Co-Executive Director, New Jersey Conservation Foundation It’s hard to imagine a world in which the fastest way to move freight between Philadelphia and New York City was having mules tow barges along a 70-mile canal connecting the Delaware and Raritan rivers. But that world existed when the Delaware & Raritan Canal opened […]

Princeton Packet

Common calendar, Packet papers, April 26

Burlington, Mercer, Middlesex, and Somerset counties New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), a division of New York Blood Center, which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers. The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of our team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/or at the refreshment area. No […]

Princeton Packet

Earth Day cleanup

Princeton Packet

She said ‘no’ to the bullies

State legislation that would ban potential book-banners from doing so – dubbed “The Freedom to Read Act” – has been introduced in the State Legislature. State Sen. Andrew Zwicker (D-Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex and Somerset) and state Sen. Teresa Ruiz (D-Essex and Hudson) introduced the bill in the state Senate on Jan. 29. It was referred […]

Princeton Packet

‘I am excited to get started’

The Princeton Public Schools Board of Education has appointed Johnson Park School Principal Angela Siso Stentz to become the next assistant superintendent for human resources. The school board appointed Siso Stentz at a special meeting April 17. She will earn $190,000 per year when she starts in her new position July 1. Siso Stentz will […]

Princeton Packet

The ‘Ivy League’ look is unhealthy for your trees!

by Jay Watson, Co-Executive Director, New Jersey Conservation Foundation While out walking or driving, did you ever notice trees so covered with ivy that they look like totally different life forms? In a way they are – because if the ivy continues to grow unchecked, the trees themselves might not live much longer. Trees laden […]

Princeton Packet

Common calendar, Packet papers, April 19

Burlington, Mercer, Middlesex, and Somerset counties New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), a division of New York Blood Center, which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers. The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of our team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/or at the refreshment area. No […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton Public Library to celebrate 20th anniversary of current building

A one-day photo exhibit and a panel discussion about the Princeton Public Library building – plus the obligatory birthday cake – will highlight a special anniversary of its opening on April 24. The photo exhibit, titled “It was 20 Years Ago Today,” will display photographs of the first day that the building – the third […]

Princeton Packet

Total Eclipse

Princeton Packet

Princeton Public Schools may soon decide on antisemitism definition

Princeton Public Schools officials hope to reach a recommendation on whether to adopt a definition of antisemitism, as requested by some parents, by the end of April. The school board’s Student Achievement Committee has been mulling over potentially adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IRHA) definition of antisemitism. It was discussed at the committee’s March […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton Public Library continues to remove barriers

The Princeton Public Library works hard to “be all things to all people” – from children learning to read, to removing barriers facing some members of the community and helping others find jobs. That’s the message delivered by Princeton Public Library Executive Director Jennifer Podolsky in the annual report delivered to the Princeton Council at […]

Princeton Packet

‘There’s a lot of work still ahead’

It has been 100 days since Mercer County Executive Dan Benson was sworn into office on Jan. 1. “When we took office, the county faced considerable challenges,” Benson said. “The 2022 county audit wasn’t complete, several key financial statements needed corrections, and a key county bond was near its expiration. “In our first 100 days, we have put Mercer County on stable footing. We have an experienced […]

Princeton Packet

‘We have the resources to end poverty if we wanted to’

An evening inside the Princeton University Friend Center turned silent when 20-minutes of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech filled an auditorium as part of an event to not just reflect but have a conversation on King’s economic vision. King’s speech played on April 3 at the Friend Center, which […]

Princeton Packet

Blue Mass

Princeton Packet

Warmer winters shift plant growing zones

by Jay Watson, Co-Executive Director, New Jersey Conservation Foundation Most longtime New Jerseyans – especially gardeners and growers – have noticed that winters have gotten milder over the last few decades. Cold weather seems to arrive later, and the Garden State gets fewer days of truly frigid, bone-chilling weather. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton Police blotter

Three burglars broke into a jewelry store on Nassau Street, smashed display cases with a sledgehammer and glass-breaking tools and stole several items of jewelry April 7. Police discovered the burglary when officers responded to a commercial burglar alarm at 4:45 a.m. The suspects fled in a white Jeep Grand Cherokee that had a temporary […]

Princeton Packet

Montgomery Township Police blotter

A small mulch fire was reported at the Princeton Elks Lodge on Route 518 at 4:41 p.m. April 9. Firefighters from Montgomery Volunteer Fire Co. No. 2 extinguished the fire, which was found to have been caused by a discarded lit match. There was no damage to the Elks Lodge. A 30-year-old Hillsborough Township man […]

Princeton Packet

Former president of Hightstown Rams Youth Football and Cheerleading charged with theft

The former president of the Hightstown Rams Youth Football and Cheerleading group has been charged with theft for allegedly withdrawing money from the association’s checking account, according to the West Windsor Police Department. The former president, who lives in Hamilton Township, was charged April 4 in connection with unauthorized withdrawals from a bank on Alexander […]

Princeton Packet

Common calendar, Packet papers, April 12

Burlington, Mercer, Middlesex, and Somerset counties New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), a division of New York Blood Center, which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers. The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of our team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/or at the refreshment area. No […]

Princeton Packet

‘A financially responsible budget’

A slight tax increase is expected for Montgomery Township property owners for 2024. The $32.4 million municipal budget was introduced to the Township Committee and public on April 4. A public hearing has been scheduled for May 2. “We feel it is a financially responsible budget,” said Michael Pitts, the township’s chief financial officer (CFO). […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton officials declare town as book sanctuary

The Princeton Council and the Princeton Public Library Board of Trustees have declared the town and its public library to be book sanctuaries – a place where books are not banned. The Princeton Council approved a resolution at its April 8 meeting declaring the town as a book sanctuary. The library board of trustees approved […]

Princeton Packet

‘It’s an absolutely gorgeous place’

The Pinelands 2024 Juried Photographic Exhibition is in its sixth year capturing the “unique, mysterious, and charming characteristics” of the Pinelands. Richard Lewis, chair of the exhibit’s Steering Committee, has been photographing the Pines for 20 years. He said every year he is amazed by the entries that are submitted. “For most people on their […]

Princeton Packet

HomeFront seeks to collect 500,000 diapers by Mother’s Day

How do you collect 500,000 diapers and baby wipes in five weeks? One box at a time. That’s the goal that HomeFront has set to collect by Mother’s Day on May 12 to help families that cannot afford to keep their babies in diapers. HomeFront, which helps the homeless and low-income families, operates its own […]

Princeton Packet

‘Small businesses represent the life-blood’

Mercer County Executive Dan Benson and the Board of County Commissioners announced they will partner for a second phase with UCEDC, a non-profit Economic Development Corporation, to establish a 0% Interest Loan Program for small businesses in Mercer County. The program will allow Mercer County businesses to apply for affordable access to capital by dedicating an additional $240,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) […]

Princeton Packet

Shy, elusive bobcats rebounding in New Jersey

by Alison Mitchell, Co-Executive Director, New Jersey Conservation Foundation You might think a biologist who’s spent nearly two decades researching bobcats in New Jersey would spot these native wildcats on a regular basis. If so, you’d be wrong! “For me, without cheating (by tracking a bobcat wearing a radio collar), I think I’ve seen a […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton Police blotter

A 22-year-old Princeton man was charged with driving while intoxicated after he was stopped for speeding on Mercer Street at 12:24 a.m. April 2. He was processed and released. A 43-year-old Seattle, Wash. man was charged with driving while intoxicated and having an open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle after he was stopped […]

Princeton Packet

Towns feel 4.7 magnitude earthquake

An earthquake that measured 4.7 magnitude was reported at 10:23 a.m. April 5, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The earthquake was centered in Lebanon in Hunterdon County, but its effects were felt statewide including Burlington, Mercer, Middlesex and Somerset counties. Buildings shook and windows rattled. Police departments in Cranbury, Princeton, Lawrence Township, Hopewell […]

Princeton Packet

Common calendar, Packet papers, April 5

Burlington, Mercer, and Somerset counties New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), a division of New York Blood Center, which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers. The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of our team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/or at the refreshment area. No medical […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton acquires donated land for passive recreation

The Princeton Council has accepted the donation of a 10-acre wooded parcel of land on River Road, next to the Princeton Church of Christ congregation. Thompson Realty Co. of New Jersey LLC offered to donate the vacant parcel to the town. The Princeton Council accepted, and approved an ordinance to accept the donation at a […]

Princeton Packet

‘Legacy preference’ remains in Princeton University admissions

Princeton University will continue using a “legacy preference” for applicants when making decisions on undergraduate admissions. The children of alumni who have applied to Princeton have received a small edge from the university. Legacy status of applicants has been used as a tie-breaker between applicants in limited instances, according to the university. An Ad Hoc […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton school board awards bids for high school renovations

Princeton school district officials have awarded contracts for renovations to the Princeton High School (PHS) cafeteria, as well as new security vestibules and new classroom doors at the district’s flagship school. The Princeton Public Schools Board of Education awarded the contracts at a meeting in February. The projects are part of a $12.9 million school […]

Princeton Packet

U.S. Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman to receive the Barbara Boggs Sigmund Award

U.S. Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman will be presented with the Barbara Boggs Sigmund Award at Womanspace’s 28th annual awards dinner May 30. Watson Coleman, who is a Democrat, has represented New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District since 2015. The 12th Congressional District includes Princeton, Montgomery Township, Rocky Hill Borough and West Windsor Township. It also includes […]

Princeton Packet

Can New Jersey cities become more ‘spongy’ and green?

by Jay Watson, Co-Executive Director, New Jersey Conservation Foundation Ever heard of a “sponge city?” Sponge cities are urban areas with a superior ability to absorb rainfall and prevent flooding, thanks to abundant natural features like trees, lakes, and parks – and good infrastructure design. As climate change brings warmer temperatures, and stronger and more […]

Princeton Packet

West Windsor Police blotter

A Philadelphia man was charged with driving while intoxicated after he crashed his Nissan SUV into a utility pole on Bear Brook Road at 10:02 p.m. Feb. 24. He was processed and released. Three Trenton residents were charged with shoplifting Feb. 24 for allegedly filling shopping bags with beauty products valued at $857.19 and leaving […]

Princeton Packet

Former Princeton resident indicted for allegedly stealing money from investors

A former Princeton resident has been charged with fraud and related violations for allegedly stealing millions of dollars from individuals and institutions, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the District of New Jersey. Ford Graham, 60, was charged with 14 counts of wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, one count […]

Princeton Packet

Common calendar, Packet papers, March 29

Burlington, Mercer, and Somerset counties New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), a division of New York Blood Center, which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers. The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of our team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/or at the refreshment area. No medical […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton school board adopts tentative budget with three-cent increase

Princeton property owners will see a three-cent increase in the school district property tax rate, based on the district’s proposed $108.5 million operating budget for 2024-25. The tentative budget, which is a $2.3 million increase over the 2023-24 budget of $106.2 million, was approved unanimously at the Princeton Public Schools Board of Education’s March 18 […]

Princeton Packet

Princeton Council purchases Lanwin tract for open space preservation

Princeton officials have agreed to purchase the 90-acre Lanwin Development Corp. property on the Princeton Ridge for $9.1 million, ending the developer’s years-long effort to build single-family homes on it. The Princeton Council introduced an ordinance to buy the tract from the developer at its March 14 meeting, and followed up with a $9.1 million […]

Princeton Packet

‘Playing for Princeton has been everything for me’

The Princeton Tigers 2023-24 women’s basketball season officially came to end when the team lost in the first round of the NCAA Tournament to West Virginia. The Tigers (25-5, 13-1 Ivy League) season may have ended when they were defeated by the Mountaineers, 63-53, in Iowa City, Iowa on March 23, but the loss did […]

Princeton Packet

Petitioners takes issue with HiTOPS curriculum unit

A petition calling on school district officials to revise or remove the intersectionality unit in the Pathways to Racial Literacy curriculum has been submitted to the Princeton Public Schools Board of Education. The petition, which was signed by 67 people, was presented to the school board at its March 18 meeting. Many of the signers […]

Princeton Packet

‘President Grover Cleveland left a legacy of service’

Commemorating the life and achievements of former President Grover Cleveland, soldiers from the Army Reserve’s 99th Readiness Division, local officials and residents gathered together for an annual wreath-laying ceremony at his grave inside Princeton Cemetary. On his birthday of March 18, Maj. Gen. Kris Belanger, commanding general of the Army Reserve’s 99th Readiness Division, and […]

Princeton Packet

Thank this New Jersey woman for your blueberries!

by Alison Mitchell, Co-Executive Director, New Jersey Conservation Foundation Walk into nearly any grocery store, any time of year, and you’ll likely find fresh blueberries in the produce aisle. Many consider them a perfect fruit … sweet and juicy, delicious fresh or cooked, and packed with health-boosting antioxidants. If you’re among the many who love […]

Princeton Packet

West Windsor police charge man in possession of handgun

A Clifton man was charged with unlawful possession of a weapon after he was stopped for speeding on Route 1 Feb. 28, according to the West Windsor Police Department. During the motor vehicle stop, the man was allegedly found to be in possession of a Walther 9-mm semi-automatic handgun, police said. The gun contained eight […]

Princeton Packet

Driver dies after car lands in Millstone River

A 31-year-old New Brunswick man died after his vehicle crashed through the guardrail at the intersection of River Road and Belle Mead-Griggstown Road and landed in the Millstone River, according to the Montgomery Township Police Department. Police and first responders were sent to River Road/Somerset County Route 533 at 6:10 a.m. on March 16 for […]

Princeton Packet

‘Really proud of this group’

Princeton women’s basketball is preparing for another first round March Madness matchup this time against the No. 8 seeded West Virginia Mountaineers. The ninth-seeded Tigers (25-4, 13-1 Ivy League) travel to Iowa City, Iowa for their matchup with the Mountaineers (24-7, 12-6 Big 12) this Saturday on March 23 at 5:30 p.m. The game will […]

Princeton Packet

Common calendar, Packet papers, March 22

Burlington, Mercer, and Somerset counties New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), a division of New York Blood Center, which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers. The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of our team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/or at the refreshment area. No medical […]

Princeton Packet

‘We have a great wealth of history’

Princeton African American residents shared their stories about not only growing up in Princeton, but more specifically the Witherspoon Jackson community. A panel and audience discussion titled, “Black Angels, Ancestors and Heritage: Reflections on the People & Growing Up in the Witherspoon Jackson Neighborhood” was held at the Arts Council of Princeton and honored memories […]

Princeton Packet

Parents ask school district to adopt definition of antisemitism

School district officials are evaluating whether to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) definition of antisemitism. The request to adopt the IHRA statement was made by parents, some of whom signed a Nov. 21, 2023 letter to school district officials that encouraged the district to address the rise in antisemitism. The IHRA statement, which […]

Princeton Packet

School board seeks waiver to allow interim schools superintendent to lead for another year

The Princeton Public Schools Board of Education is seeking a waiver to allow Interim Superintendent of Schools Kathie Foster to continue in that role through June 30, 2025, while it searches for a permanent superintendent. Foster is a retired administrator. State law allows school boards to employ retired administrators in interim or acting roles for […]