AMAZING ARTWORK: “Bring on the Joy” is the theme of this colorful mural at the Princeton Shopping Center. Commissioned by EDENS, the owner of the Shopping Center, it was painted by a team of Arts Council of Princeton artists. “We believe that public art provides an opportunity to build community around creative expression,” explains Melissa Kuscin, Arts Council program/marketing manager. “The impact of a mural is impressive: it brightens and lifts the spirits of those who encounter it, and has the potential to deliver key themes and messages.”

By Jean Stratton

It’s party time at the Princeton Shopping Center!

Friday, July 9 (rescheduled to July 29) will be the launch date of its “Summer Nights Series” of concerts, movies, and DJ parties. It will also dedicate its striking new mural, Bring on the Joy, located on the interior courtyard wall between the Smith’s Ace Hardware and Princeton Mattress establishments.

It couldn’t be a better time to celebrate, as everyone is ready to get out and about after a year and a half of semi-confinement.

We are fortunate in Princeton not only to have a downtown that is alive and lively, but a “village” shopping center, with friendly service and personal attention. And Princeton strives to be a town where the independently-owned establishment can still thrive. The independent entrepreneur is a presence here, appreciated and respected by knowledgeable and interested customers. more

ROOF AND CHIMNEY EXPERTISE: “We work hard to make sure that our customers have the safest and best quality roofs and chimneys.” Eri Iseberi, owner of Expert Chimney & Roofing LLC, is proud of the excellent workmanship of his crews. Shown are photos of recent projects, including roofs and chimneys.

By Jean Stratton

A roof over your head, a fire in the fireplace  — even in the midst of summer, it is not too soon to think about any needed repairs for the chimney and fireplace, so they will be ready to provide a cozy setting for those chilly December days and nights.

Making sure the roof is free of hidden leaks or other damage is important for year-round comfort.

Indeed, care and attention to the roof is crucial at any time. Depending on its age, unseen problems underneath the shingles can cause serious damage.

Opened in 2006, Expert Chimney & Roofing LLC in Fair Lawn has established an excellent reputation for its skill with new roofs, chimneys, gutters, and repair work in all areas. more

FAMILY FOCUS: “We look forward to everyone coming to see the special collection in our showroom.” Owen (left), Carol, and Phil Cane, owners of Cane Farm Furniture in Rosemont, are proud of their longtime family business. They are shown near a country-style pine dining table with painted black legs and accents, built by Owen.

By Jean Stratton

History is on display at Cane Farm Furniture.

This longtime family business is located on 88 acres in a rustic setting at 99 Kingwood-Stockton Road, just off Route 519 in Rosemont.

It is situated on the same property that was once the site of the Cane Poultry Farm. Charles Cane established the very successful hatchery in 1927, and at one time 600,000 chicks and chickens inhabited the incubators and chicken coops located there.

The family, including Charles’ son Phil, lived in a stone farmhouse, dating to 1822, which is still standing. In 1965, the family business changed direction, when current owner Phil Cane opened a woodworking business, with an emphasis on early American reproduction and Shaker-style furniture.

Phil had enjoyed woodworking as a boy, and it grew into a business that now includes his wife and office manager Carol, and sons Owen and Christopher. more

SUMMER DINING AT WINDROWS: The Nassau Patio, shown here, is just one of the dining options at Princeton Windrows, the independent, resident-owned active adult community. This popular patio is open for alfresco dinners in spring, summer, and fall. Patio heaters and a fire pit are available during cooler weather. Outdoor dining has become a big favorite for many who enjoy the pleasure of open-air eating opportunities.

By Jean Stratton

It’s all about choices.

At Princeton Windrows, the independent adult community for people 55 and older, residents have many options. Lifestyle, type of dwelling, eating choices, participation in activities, attending events, pets (Windrows is very pet-friendly) — it is all up to the residents. They have complete control of how they wish to live within a worry-free, easy-living setting.

No more snow shoveling, leaf raking, house painting, house cleaning, etc. Instead:  more time to focus on what is important at this point in one’s life.

Located on 35 acres at 2000 Windrow Dive, adjacent to Princeton Forrestal Village, and four miles from downtown Princeton, Windrows offers 192 apartment-style condominiums, and 102 one-story villas and two-story townhouses. Approximately 300 people are currently in residence.

Resident-Owned

At Princeton Windrows, residents own real property, which they can choose to upgrade or sell at any time.

“Princeton Windrows is unique in that it is not owned by a company,” explains Jane Black, president of the board of trustees. “It is a nonprofit condominium association independent adult community. There are very few adult communities not run by a corporation. We are resident-owned and managed, and very different from other 55 and older adult communities and assisted living and continuing care centers.” more

SPECIAL HELP: “Our multi-disciplinary team of professionals, including a learning consultant (LDTC), a speech pathologist, and a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA) are able to provide comprehensive evaluation services to accurately identify children and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), prescribe treatment options, and help them reach their full potential.” Nina Finkler, M.Ed., LDT/C, BCBA, is founder and president of Nina Finkler Autism Consulting, LLC.

By Jean Stratton

The condition can be noticed early. Perhaps the 3-year-old seems removed, indifferent, unable to interact with family members, often refusing to look at people, avoiding touch, fearful of sudden noises.

These are just some symptoms that can occur with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Identified in the U.S. in 1943 by Dr. Leo Kanner, it is a bio-neurological developmental disability which impacts the normal development of the brain regarding social interaction, conversation skills, and cognitive function. Difficulties can affect both verbal and non-verbal communication.

The condition has been increasing dramatically, and it is more prevalent among boys than girls. The increase may be due to a variety of causes, but the reasons for the gender differences are basically unknown, reports Nina Finkler, M.Ed., LDT/C. BCBA, founder and president of Nina Finkler Autism Consulting, LLC in East Windsor.

“In 2020, one in 54 children in the U.S. were diagnosed with autism. In New Jersey, it is one in 32, the highest rate in the country. The increase can be attributed to several factors, including increased awareness, improved diagnostic tools, and modified diagnostic criteria. more

DISTINCTIVE DINING: “We are set apart by our overall approach and ability to achieve a special refinement. We emphasize quality and a unique and exciting ambiance.” Ben Sanford and his wife Katie, owners of BORO Market | Restaurant | Bar in Pennington, look forward to introducing more customers to their intriguing new restaurant and market. Shown is the elegant main dining room and bar.

By Jean Stratton

Something special is waiting for you at 147 West Delaware Avenue in Pennington!

Visitors to BORO Market | Restaurant | Bar will find an exciting dining experience in an intriguing setting, unlike anything else in the area.

Opened last December, it is the product of both the experience and imagination of owners and husband and wife team, Ben and Katie Sanford.

“My wife and I have been in the restaurant business for more than 40 years combined between us, including in Robbinsville, Bordentown, Charleston, S.C., and Pennington,” explains Ben Sanford. “We’ve had Cugino’s Italian Market in Pennington for years, including at this location for the past five years. Having our own restaurant has always been our dream.” more

TABLEAU OF TREES: “We sell a lot of high quality specimen trees — all kinds: native, exotic, evergreen, shade, flowering, and all sizes. We also install large trees — 25 feet. In addition, we ship trees all over the east coast. Customers know they can count on our high quality specimen material.” Douglas W. Kale (left) owner and president of Kale’s Nursery & Landscape Service, Inc., is shown with his son Scott as they prepare trees for delivery to new owners.

By Jean Stratton

Magnolia, cherry, pear, dogwood, azalea, forsythia, lilac! Do you have a favorite?

Whatever it is, Kale’s Nursery & Landscape Service, Inc. is sure to have it. Along with all the hydrangeas, rhododendrons, roses, pansies, tulips, geraniums, daffodils, lettuce, tomatoes, strawberries, basil, thyme, and rosemary — everything that makes your garden an ongoing pleasure!

This longtime favorite independent family garden and landscape center is celebrating its 65th anniversary. At a time when family businesses are far less prevalent than in the past, this is a proud and welcome achievement.

Founded in 1956 by Herbert Kale, it still remains at its original location, 133 Carter Road. It began as a landscape contracting and design business, explains Douglas W. Kale, current owner and president, and son of Herbert Kale.

Hometown Boy

A hometown boy, born in Princeton Hospital, Douglas Kale knew he always wanted to continue the family business, offering quality products and helpful, knowledgeable service. As a boy, he worked in the nursery on weekends and in the summer, learning about the operation. After graduating from Rutgers University with a degree in horticulture, he joined the company full-time.

“When Dad retired, I expanded the business into retail in 1977,” he recalls. “Many of our customers had been asking to buy plants and trees. Landscaping is still a big part of the business and in order to give customers the best quality, we grow many of our trees, shrubs, and plants. We grow most of our ornamental trees, and some evergreens.” more

TWO IN ONE: “We offer two concepts on one site: Poké Mahi and Fresca Bowls,” says Samoil (Sani) Risteski, manager of the Poké Mahi, Fresca Bowl restaurant. A variety of innovative dishes offers an intriguing dining experience, with healthy choices that taste good! The attractive and informal setting invites customers to embark on a new dining journey.

By Jean Stratton

People want to get out and be together in a restaurant — have human contact. This is so important. We are ready to offer them high quality, healthy food in a great setting, and welcoming atmosphere.”

Samoil (Sani) Risteski, manager of Poké Mahi, Fresca Bowl at 142 Nassau Street (former location of Hulit’s Shoes) is enthusiastic about the new restaurant’s very positive reception.

“We opened in September, and have had an excellent response. We already have many repeat customers, and we expect it to get even better as the warm weather arrives, and we can have both indoor and outdoor eating, as well as takeout.”

Poké Mahi, Fresca Bowl is a franchise operation, with locations along the East Coast. Princeton is the first in New Jersey, and is a top-notch spot, reports Sani. “Princeton is a great location for us. People here are interested in exploring new dishes, new tastes, to see what something is like. They like to try new things.” more

FABRICS AND FURNISHINGS: This Wesley Hall wing chair (shown in front and rear views) at Artéé Fabrics & Home features plaid wool upholstery with equestrian-accented leather banding on the back. Behind the chair is a selection of special leather samples. “This chair offers a modern silhouette and a unique look, with a classic style fabric, given a modern twist,” says interior designer and Artéé store manager Barbara Campbell.

By Jean Stratton

Color is key at Artéé Fabrics & Home!

Vivid, vibrant — in all shades, patterns, and textures — the fabrics create a vista of eye-catching combinations.

Opened last November at 102 Village Boulevard in Forrestal Village (the former location of Calico Corners), Artéé’s is one of 15 stores first established by Artéé and Shekhar Mehta 12 years ago.

Featuring fine fabrics for draperies, bedding, and more, the Princeton showroom also offers custom furniture and accessories, including artwork and lighting. Comforters, throws, decorative pillows, upholstered headboards, and other specialties are also available.

“The fabrics are the main attraction,” reports interior designer and store manager Barbara Campbell. “There is a great variety, and many have a modern flair and are imported from India.” more

KEEP MOVING!  These assisted living residents of Greenwood House Senior Healthcare are enjoying an energetic morning “Sittercise” chair exercise session. “Our residents keep moving,” says Greenwood House Executive Director Richard Goldstein. “Movement is very important. Our residents get up and out of bed, get dressed, and keep moving!”

By Jean Stratton

Since 1939, Greenwood House Senior Healthcare has been caring for elderly individuals, initially for those of the Jewish faith, and now for those of all faiths.

Established by the Trenton Ladies Sick Benefit Society, a charitable humanitarian organization, it offered people who required medical, nursing, and personal care a safe and secure environment.

Originally located on Greenwood Avenue in Trenton, it moved to its current home at 53 Walter Street in Ewing in 1974.

What started as a local home for the Jewish elderly with 25 residents is now a highly respected non-sectarian senior health care organization for 125 residents. It offers an entire continuum of care, including long term care, skilled nursing, respite care, home care, an assisted living facility for private residents, rehabilitation care programs for a variety of conditions, physical, occupational and speech therapy, home-delivered Kosher meals on wheels, and hospice care. more

LEGAL EXPERTISE: “Since 1929, Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman (PR&A) attorneys have worked hard to build a track record of honest, smart, and responsible legal representation. We have earned the respect of family law courts, judges, and other New Jersey family law attorneys. We offer one of the largest family law departments in central New Jersey, and have established a statewide reputation of excellence.” Shown are attorneys in the PR&A family law department. Top row: Managing partner and department chair John A. Hartmann III, partner Lydia Fabbro Keephart, and partner Nicole Huckerby. Bottom row: Associate Jennifer Haythorn and associate Jillian Frost Kalyan.

By Jean Stratton

If the future of a marriage or domestic relationship is in doubt, or clearly headed for disruption, the parties most often seek the help of an attorney.

The lawyers who assist clients in divorce cases are specialists in family law. This is difficult work, but it is also satisfying in a very important way. The cases these attorneys deal with are very human, complex, and often emotionally disturbing. Helping clients navigate these severely stressful experiences and move on to a new future makes a difficult job worthwhile.

Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman (PR&A) has been providing this kind of expert legal representation since 1929. Founded by George Pellettieri, it began as a general law firm in Trenton. In 1934, Pellettieri was joined by attorney Ruth Rabstein, who later became his wife. They were a potent team, and the firm gained a reputation for helping individuals in the community, and not institutions.

Committed to assisting working men and women who might be without means to pay, especially during the Great Depression, PR&A was often reimbursed with chickens, homemade pies, and other goods and services. more

HIGH TECH: “We offer expert computer service and repair but we’re not here just to fix computers,” explain Chris and Allison Rush, the husband and wife team who own Technician X. “First and foremost, we are here to help people. We are primarily a customer-focused business.” Shown is a statue of Albert Einstein seated in front of the Technician X location.

By Jean Stratton 

The mysteries of cyberspace can be solved at Technician X!

How is your little corner of this miraculous, mystifying, magical, but often frustrating, world?

Is your computer up to snuff? Or is it too slow, unreliable? Does it ever crash? Or — really bad news — suffer from a virus? How about the printer? Erratic, quirky? And then, the smartphone. All systems go — or not?

If any of the above resonates with you, help is at hand.

Computer Network   

Technician X, located in the Village Shoppes at Montgomery center at 1378 Route 206 South in Skillman, has been helping customers update, repair, and maintain existing computers, as well as buy new or refurbished models, for more than 20 years.

Owners Chris and Allison Rush and their staff of professional technicians can answer questions, solve problems, set up a new computer network for businesses and residences, and provide comprehensive computer service.  more

FASHION FORWARD: “We have always offered a high level of choices. The quality of our designs and collections and the concept of our business  have never changed. We will always continue this.” Rachel Reiss, owner of Hedy Shepard LTD, is shown with her late mother Lynn Rabinowitz, who was co-owner of the popular women’s shop for 20 years.

By Jean Stratton

Hedy Shepard LTD is a longtime Princeton favorite.   

This popular women’s shop at 175 Nassau Street, always in the forefront of fashion, offers a dynamic selection of all-occasion clothing — career to evening, sophisticated, and very wearable.

No question about it. Hedy Shepard LTD is the place to be for the fashion-conscious woman of today!

Despite a pandemic and the challenges of online shopping (and winter storms!), this special store remains a go-to resource for women who want stylish and unique fashion.

Originally opened in 1987 by Hedy Shepard, it became the fashion focus for new owners Lynn Rabinowitz and her daughter Rachel Reiss in 2000. The mother-daughter team operated the store together until Lynn’s death last year. more

HELPING HANDS: “People can come and get something really nice for a very reasonable price, and all the funds go to HomeFront to benefit their clients.” Shown from left are volunteers and curators at the HomeFront Pop-Up Shop in Hopewell. Also pictured is Jim Baxter, owner of the building. Front row: Betty Smith, Anita Trullinger; Back row: Ruthann Traylor, Baxter, and Anne Battle.

By Jean Stratton

Hope and love are on display at the HomeFront Pop-Up Shop at 31 West Broad Street in Hopewell.

This is truly an example of looking out for others and helping them in times of need. Located in the storefront belonging to Jim Baxter of Baxter Construction, the new shop has a story to tell.

Since founding his company in 1981, Baxter has helped clients enjoy the comfort of their homes for nearly 40 years. He understands the importance of family and relationships, and how COVID-19, with its accompanying struggle and suffering, has intensified the focus of the home as a safe haven.

He was shocked when he watched a TV news broadcast before Thanksgiving, and saw a very long line of cars all waiting at a food pantry in northern New Jersey. more

HANDSOME HOMES: This splendid townhouse is one of the 45 homes available at The Townhomes at Riverwalk, a 55 + active adult community in Plainsboro.

By Jean Stratton

Every detail has been carefully thought about. Every amenity is provided, and everything can be customized to personal taste.

The Townhomes at Riverwalk, a group of 45 homes located at One Riverwalk in Plainsboro, are now ready for occupancy. An active adult community for those 55 and older, this is a unique opportunity featuring a club membership program, which offers shared amenities and services with the neighboring rental community, Ovation at Riverwalk.

“Sharing the clubhouse amenities is a new concept in New Jersey,” explains Anna Shulkina, realtor at Re/Max of Princeton, who is the listing agent for the Riverwalk Townhomes, “This is really a special benefit of living here. As club members, residents can enjoy the restaurants, gym, swimming pool, library, game room, etc. The monthly maintenance fee includes access to all these club amenities.”

Owned by MVB Riverwalk Urban Renewal LLC, which is headquartered in Philadelphia, The Townhomes is a grouping of eight buildings, including four different home models. They offer owners opportunities for customized materials, a variety of cabinet and countertop colors, and floor plans. more

TEST OF TIME: “I have been involved with the company for 40 years, and it’s great fun! I still have the passion to help someone realize their dream of a new kitchen or bath or a new look with flooring,” says Joe Rossi, owner of Regent Flooring Kitchen and Bath in Pennington. “Our customers know that when they come here, we will be honest and up front, and offer our years of experience and knowledgeable service.” Shown is the company’s spacious showroom on Route 31 North.

By Jean Stratton

Personal attention, a knowledgeable staff, longtime experience, hands-on help and advice, and of course, quality products — these are the ingredients that make a successful business, and one that stands the test of time.

In the case of Regent Flooring Kitchen and Bath, it just gets better and better! The independent, family-owned business will celebrate its 58th anniversary this year.

Opened in 1963 by Felix Rossi and his partners, its initial focus was on flooring, including wood, tile, and carpet.

“My father and grandfather were born in Italy,” says current owner Joe Rossi, son of Felix. “In the early days, the store was a much smaller operation. It basically opened in one room, and now we have expanded into a spacious showroom, including a brand new addition to our kitchen and bath section. We still offer a complete line of flooring, and we also now have window treatments, and an increasing focus on kitchen and bath remodeling.” more

HEALTH AND WELLNESS: “Our philosophy is that it is easier to keep you healthy than to get you healthy after you become sick. So we have a great focus on preventive medicine and lifestyle modification to maximize health. We are also well-equipped and experienced to diagnose and treat illness, and help people restore their good health.” Jerrold S. Gertzman, MD, is a primary care physician and division director for Primary Care of the Capital Health Medical Group.

By Jean Stratton

Staying well and healthy is uppermost on all our minds — probably more than ever before as we continue to cope with COVID-19. Practically no one in the U.S. has experienced a pandemic of this magnitude (very few people are still alive who remember the deadly flu pandemic of 1918). The current ordeal has brought seemingly unending challenges.

All those who have worked hard to help us through this nightmare deserve our admiration and appreciation.

Of course, that includes all the heath care workers who, day in and day out, save lives.

The Capital Health Medical Group, an affiliate of Capital Health Medical Center, is committed to providing patients with the best care available. With locations in and around Mercer and Burlington Counties as well as Bucks County, Pa., it offers an extensive network of care, including more than 400 physicians and other providers who offer primary, specialty, and surgical care. 20 of the locations are for primary care, and 85 primary care physicians are affiliated with the Group. more

“JAZAMILY” TEAMWORK: “We’re a specialty toy store, with the focus on fun and quality. It’s an eclectic mix, with items to appeal to all ages — from babies and toddlers to teens and even young-at-heart adults!” Joanne Farrugia and Dean Smith (foreground), co-owners of jaZams toy store, are shown with members of the “jaZamily” team.

By Jean Stratton

JaZams is a magical store!

Nothing is more fun than a toy shop, and this one is filled with creativity, imagination, and colorful toys galore.

During its 25-year history, jaZams has earned an outstanding reputation and built a loyal, ever-expanding clientele.

Founder and co-owner Joanne Farrugia opened the store in the Montgomery Center in 1996, and moved to Palmer Square in 2000. It has been in its current location at 25 Palmer Square East since 2008.

An independently-owned store, it is facing the challenges so many brick-and-mortar establishments are coping with today. COVID-19 brought with it an onslaught of difficulties, but, even before that, online shopping competition was creating its own hurdles.

jaZams continues to prevail, however, and although it was closed from March to June due to COVID, it operated its online business with its website, and also established a busy curbside pick-up service.

“We were fortunate to keep busy then, and we also delivered within an 8-mile area (and still do),” reports Farrugia. more

LUXURY LIFESTYLE: “We’re a newer concept because all our units are rentals. This was a market need. People are enjoying the benefits of not having to be responsible for all the things that go with running a house.” Ken Butler, MA, CCM, general manager of Ovation at Riverwalk in Plainsboro, is enthusiastic about this new active adult community. Shown is the sophisticated, state-of-the-art modern new building.

By Jean Stratton

Ovation at Riverwalk is a unique rental community for active adults, ages 55 and up. Located at One Riverwalk in Plainsboro, it is operated by SageLife, a developer of adult communities, and it is expected to open for residents in 2021. Applications and deposits are being accepted now.

“We are set apart from other adult communities,” explains Ovation General Manager Ken Butler, MA, CCM. “One, we are a rental community with flexibility, offering short term and long term leases, Two, we have fully-staffed amenities and services, a professional team of housekeepers, maintenance help, fitness and lifestyle coaches, and concierge service.

“In addition, the Ovation membership program offers a lifestyle that is like that of a private club. Our clubhouse, which is just for residents and their guests, offers all the services and amenities people will welcome. Our services and hospitality will be like a country club.”

Another important feature of the new community is its location very near the Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center campus just off Route 1 in Plainsboro. It is just a short walk away from the Merwick Care & Rehabilitation Center, and is situated alongside the Millstone River, with an opportunity for many scenic walking trails along the river. more