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Wake Up! Be Alert to Changes Happening in the Area this Spring

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There have been many days throughout this winter where one likely felt a desire to hibernate. Momentary bouts of sun and warmer weather enticed people out briefly, then sudden drops back into frigid temperatures (and groundhog Punxsutawney Phil seeing his shadow) reminded us winter is still here. Well, it is time for spring (officially it arrives on March 20th) so wake up and pay attention to what is happening around you.

BE PREPARED TO FLY

If you have a trip planned or are hoping to fly somewhere in the days, weeks or months following May 7th, that date is fast approaching. It is on May 7th that enforcement of REAL ID driver licenses begins at airports. If you’ve been asleep, REAL IDs are a newer format of federal identification that is being instituted to prevent people from using fraudulent identification. It is NOT a driving requirement – you can still drive with a standard driver license. However, without one, you will need to carry a U.S. passport or other approved citizenship/resident ID for TSA airport screening.

To get a REAL ID, you simply need to request this format at your license renewal, or if you do not have a license expiring within three months, make a non-renewal appointment at the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). Seems simple, right? Not quite so. If you go to the website for non-renewal right now, you will likely find there are no appointments available. High demand as the drop-dead date is approaching, is making appointments hard to come by, and getting many nervous.

“The MVC monitors appointment availability and will regularly add and reallocate appointments to better meet the demand for specific services. Earlier this month, for instance, we opened an additional 36,000 REAL ID non-renewal appointments,” explains William Connolly, MVC Spokesperson. “In addition to the appointments currently available, approximately 3,000 new appointments for REAL ID upgrades are added each business day at 7 a.m.”

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The MVC has since announced the start of “REAL ID Thursdays,” whereby nearly 4,500 new appointments will be added every Thursday. These appointment slots can be found on the scheduler. Starting April 5th, the MVC will also host REAL ID Mobile Units every Saturday. These opportunities will be added to the scheduler later this month.

When you do land one, make sure you arrive prepared with 2 proofs of residential address, 1 verifiable Social Security number, and identity documents that add up to 6 REAL ID Points.

IMPACTS OF AVIAN FLU

Another imminent issue is Avian flu, more commonly known as bird flu, and it is impacting every egg-eating American no matter where you live. Last spring you could buy a dozen large Grade A eggs for as low as $1.54. That same purchase today is $8.19 for Shoprite of Lawrenceville’s Bowl & Basket brand and can cost as low as $4.50/dozen at the Quakerbridge Costco. Why? In the last quarter of 2024, the U.S. lost more than 20 million egg-laying chickens due to this flu. Fewer eggs = higher prices.

Some locals are turning to nearby farms to purchase their eggs, such as at Griggstown Farm on Bunker Hill Road. One dozen chicken eggs were recently $8, and quail eggs were available at $6.50 for a package.

There is hope for some relief, though it may take a bit of time. In late February, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced a $1 billion-dollar strategy to curb the disease that is impacting the U.S. poultry industry and spiking egg prices. The monies will go towards biosecurity measures, financial relief to impacted farmers and vaccine research. What does this mean? It is suspected that wild birds infect farm stock, so the biosecurity measures could go far in preventing that. Once infected, the flocks must be depopulated, so relief aid could assist in repopulation efforts. USDA is also exploring options to increase the import of eggs to help lower todays’ costs. In a press conference late February by the USDA chief, it was shared that Turkey has already stated it will export an additional 15,000 tons of eggs to the U.S. between now and July.

To date, there are minimal confirmed instances of bird flu in Mercer County. A bald eagle was discovered in a yard near Carnegie Lake in late 2024. Because it had no obvious signs of death, it was taken and tested and results shared just recently confirm bird flu was the cause of death. Since then, some other dead birds (geese, vulture and a great horned owl) were found in Princeton and there is suspicion of bird flu, though it is not laboratory confirmed. Additionally, the bird flu was found in poultry at a live bird market in Ewing in early March. No infected poultry were sold to the public and the market was quarantined and temporarily closed. There have additionally been 2 reported cases of infected cats in Hunterdon County as well as confirmed detections in wild birds in Warren and Salem Counties and of wild geese in Burlington and Monmouth Counties.

“Fortunately, we have not seen sustained person-to-person transmission. However, the situation requires continuous monitoring and vigilant public health surveillance in case any changes indicate easier spread,” notes Jeff Grosser, Princeton Health Officer.

The threat to humans remains low, though there have been three human cases of bird flu reported nationwide (all people who worked in the industry). None have been reported in NJ.

AID IN EDUCATION

Turning from health to educational concerns…we shared last month about worries some have due to U.S. Department of Education changes, as NJ receives over $1b in Federal funding for its schools. Last week, nearly 50% of the department’s workforce was reduced, eliminating 2,183 workers. Time will tell what, if any, impacts there may be in terms of federal financial supports, but we do know that the New Jersey Department of Education has come out with its state aid calculations for 2025-2026. It brings both good and bad news for Mercer County.

While six local school districts are seeing an increase in state aid (up as much as 6%), four districts will see their aid cut.

East Windsor, West Windsor, Robbinsville and Princeton will have state aid reductions, down from 1.6-3%. Princeton Public Schools (PPS) loss of 3% ($174,774) is going to be offset greatly by a decrease in projected Princeton Charter School tuitions (a $114,710 savings). The tentative budget, which does not anticipate making any cuts due to the $60,064 loss, is expected to be approved tonight, March 18th,  with final adoption in late April.

“While we are disappointed in the small net reduction of state aid, we are grateful that it wasn’t more impactful to our budget,” says Matt Bouldin, PPS Business Administrator (who is expected to announce at tonight’s meeting that he is leaving PPS in June for another district).

Meanwhile, local school districts including Ewing, Hopewell Valley, Lawrence, Mercer County Vocational and Trenton, saw increases of state aid from .5% up to 6.16%.

EXPERIENCE YOUR LOCAL PARKS

As the weather begins to warm up and entice you outside, there is much to take advantage of. March 30th is Take a Walk in the Park Day, so if you haven’t been able to pull yourself out of hibernation mode yet, perhaps this will be the day!

In Princeton proper alone, there are more than 1,800 acres of parkland owned mostly by the municipality, as well as some controlled by the state, county and D&R Greenway. Amongst them you can find over 45 miles of trails.

“There is an excitement that comes with the annual approach of spring and the increased opportunities to get outside and visit Princeton’s many parks, trails and open space areas. There are so many different recreation opportunities available in the Princeton Parks system for people of all ages and interests. The Recreation Department encourages area residents to get outside this spring and summer, take advantage of the warmer weather and recreate in our many beautiful parks and open spaces,” shares Evan Moorhead, Princeton Recreation Department Executive Director.

For a full listing of all of the park and open space opportunities in Princeton, you can learn more here.

GET MOVING

So, if you’ve been sleeping through the winter, now it is time to wake up. Get your REAL ID appointment, be aware of what is happening in the community, and get yourself outside to enjoy one of the 28 parks and open space preserves Princeton owns.

As the weather warms up, there is so much to see and learn going on around you.

What You Can Expect as Animals Come out of Hibernation

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As the dark and cold turns to warmer, brighter skies, many animals and pests wake up from their winter hibernations. Their arousals can impact humans in many ways, as they exit their winter habitats, build their new homes and search for food.

Often, the spring awakening and heightened activity sparks discoveries that animals or pests are in or around your home. Sometimes they will pass through and go on their way, other times they may get trapped or find shelter on parts of your property that are problematic and may require expert help.

From racoons, skunks and foxes to bats, honey bees, salamanders and kittens – spring around Princeton means migrations, awakenings and a lot of activity.

The Amphibian Migration

When one thinks of salamanders, they often think of deep forest or mountain areas. If you travel to Florida, frogs and salamanders often jump or crawl onto the sidewalks. But it is important to know that each spring, there is a migration of frogs and salamanders right here in Princeton.

The municipality has put out an alert, asking all drivers to use caution and avoid travel on Herrontown Road between Bunn Drive and Snowden Lane on nights when the temperature is above 40°F and it is rainy, or the roads remain wet. That is when amphibians migrate from their winter homes in the forest habitats of Autumn Hill and the Lanwin property to the ponds and pools found in Herrontown Woods. Of most concern are the Spotted Salamander, Woods Frogs and Spring Peepers.

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Activity in Your Attic

Unlike the amphibians that are low to the road, bats like to roost in high, dark building areas such as in barns, garages and attics of the house. As flying insects start to reappear, bats want to make their way out to eat them. Little Brown and Big Brown bats are the most common in this area, and you are mostly likely to see them from now into August.

“If you see one in your house flying around, the best thing to do is try to isolate it. If it is in a bedroom or bathroom, close the door first! Put a towel under the door to prevent the bat from crawling out, as they can compress themselves very small,” explains Princeton Animal Control officer, Jim Ferry.

Unless you saw the bat fly into your home, there are likely others inside. So, calling local animal control or a wildlife removal company should be your first step (bats are a protected species, so cannot be exterminated). The isolation is also important, to avoid contact. If you were asleep and wake up to find one, it flies by and touches you or you actually get a bite or scratch, it will be collected for rabies testing. There is a very low rate of rabies in bats in this area, but better to be safe.

In addition to bats, racoons can make great use of attics as their seasonal warmth and shelter can create a perfect location for a den. They do not hibernate, but mating season usually occurs between January and March, so now is the time litters will start to emerge.

“Once raccoons make their way indoors, they can cause significant damage, so early detection is key to preventing costly repairs. It’s crucial to avoid creating conditions around your home that might attract skunks or raccoons,” details Pete Riccobene, Western Pest Services Princeton Branch Manager. “One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is leaving garbage outside regularly, which provides an easy food source for these animals. To deter them from nesting on or near your property, it’s essential to eliminate any available food. Secure trash bins with tight-fitting lids, avoid leaving pet food outdoors, and clean up fallen fruit or birdseed promptly.”

To avoid any harm from these potentially aggressive animals, you will also want to contact pest control or an animal control expert. For both bats and racoons, points of entry can also be sealed up, and often a one-way door can be placed to enable any remaining animals to exit and not come back in.

Wildlife at Your Doorstep

Similar to racoons, foxes are wrapping up their mating season and are now starting to den. The foxes will find underneath your porch or shed as their ideal location. Traditionally, they will live in those spaces until the end of summer, so if they are not bothering you then you can leave them as they are not inherently dangerous. Simply talk to yourself and make your presence known, and they will likely leave you alone. Adult foxes will stay nearby if there are babies (known as fox kits), and by May or June you should start seeing the kits around. Ferry says there has never been a recorded fox bite in Princeton, but if you have young children or are finding them a nuisance, you may want to urge them to leave. Noise and lighting will create enough of an annoyance to get them to relocate.

“Most foxes have a backup den. If you can put out speakers, put them face down on the floorboards so it resonates underneath and turn on talk radio. Human talking annoys them most. Leave it on for a couple of days, and you’ll see mom move the kits,” Ferry shares. “You can also shine work lights underneath the shed, that works too. They want a dark, quiet space for the little ones.”

If none of the above works, a wildlife removal company can trap the foxes for you. It is not recommended to do so on your own.

Outside your home, you may also discover pregnant feral cats this time of year. If you see one, you’re advised to call animal control right away so they can be taken before the litter is dropped and there are up to a dozen more kittens to catch. Feral cats and their little kittens can kill a lot of birds, and with bird flu around, containment is key (read Wake Up! Be Alert to Changes Happening in the Area this Spring for more detail on that). Wild cats in our area are taken to SAVE Animal Shelter where they can be adopted and loved. Older cats that have been living in the wild for a while can be harder to domesticate.

Buzzing Around

Outside of your home you are also likely to find honey bees this time of year, as they are usually one of the first insects to come out of hibernation. Don’t be alarmed if you see a large number of them nearby, it does not indicate an infestation. Rather, they are simply trying to get sustenance for their colonies.

“Honey bees are primarily focused on pollination, which is crucial to the environment. As they collect nectar and pollen from flowers, they help fertilize plants, ensuring the growth of fruits, vegetables, and wildflowers. This, in turn, supports biodiversity and strengthens ecosystems,” Riccobene describes. “Nesting typically doesn’t begin until late June or early July, so the bees you see earlier in the season are simply going about their vital work.”

The work of these early honey bees sets things up for the local ecosystem. Their pollination efforts are important, and therefore best to leave them undisturbed.

Taking Advantage of the Spring Awakenings

Of course, as the animals and pests come out of hibernation, humans also tend to want to get outside more and enjoy their homes. You can always seek advice or help from a local pest expert or animal control if they are feeling like a nuisance or threat. Otherwise, you can sit back in the sun and enjoy watching life evolving outside your door.

Editor’s Note

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“Love is in the air…everywhere I look around!” As I envision John Paul Young singing those lyrics in the 1970s, he likely did not have Valentine’s Day in Princeton on his mind. But it sure fits the scene. As we lead up to the famous day of love, it’s a great time to write about it. Whether you’re madly in love yourself or not, there’s lots of ways to love and be loved. And if you are not experiencing it yet, the February issue of Princeton Perspectives has you Feeling the Love Around Princeton!

To get people thinking about one of the most emblematic moments of love, we stopped by local shops in downtown Princeton and asked owners and employees, what romantic spot around Princeton do you think is perfect for a proposal? It was already on the minds of some, far from mind for others, but everyone has a soft spot for love! Check out this month’s Pulse of Princeton to see what they suggest.

Beyond a love for one another, people in this area also have deep passion for, well, the area! From food to sites and of course, the people, there is a lot to love about Princeton. To get you up to speed, we share insights from laymen to leaders in the article, What is it That People Love About Princeton?

If you haven’t quite found love yet, don’t fret! You’re not alone. And if digital dating has you down, read on. In the article Speed Dating, Set-ups and More. Searching for Love Around Mercer County our guest writer delves into the single’s scene from a first-hand perspective. The things that can drag you down, have inspired her to help others. Read on for the scoop!

Speaking of scoop, there is nothing more deeply personal than a love letter, is there? And what about love letters, uncovered between people that we know about for vastly different reasons? In the article Love in Letters: To the Women in Their Lives, as Written by Albert Einstein and T.S. Eliot we peek into letters uncovered, written to the loves they left behind.

If you want to look forward, not back, it is important to put in the work. Love is rewarding but it doesn’t come easy. So, we brought in the heavy weights for the article, A Couple’s Therapist Weighs In: What Does it Take to Make Love Last? From young to old, there are tips and actions to keep your spark strong.

Our Perspectives Revisited steers away from our love theme, as we update you on stories we’ve covered in the past. These include what’s being done to enhance safety on the roadways to project completion updates for Princeton Public Schools. You can stay up to date here!

Does this issue spark the romantic inside of you? Whether it’s a love for something or someone, we hope our thoughts, tips and insight help you get out and seek, find or share that love!

Pulse of Princeton: What romantic spot around Princeton is perfect for a proposal?

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What is it That People Love About Princeton?

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Princeton is an attractive town, for a variety of reasons. In general, people tend to love the university town for the beauty of its campus, the robust town center, and its geographic location situated halfway between New York and Philadelphia. For those who live here, they often come for a job, post-graduate work or the schools. But once they arrive, they tend to find there are many reasons to stay.

What are some of Princeton’s strongest attractions? We put out a survey and asked our locals to tell us what they love most. From leaders to layman, many shared their thoughts. Whether it is food or drink, outdoor spaces or the deep history, there are a variety of reasons this town is loved.

“What truly makes Princeton special is its people,” shares Christopher Tash, Chief of Police at Princeton Police Department. “They are warm, welcoming, and very engaged in the community. Princeton offers something for everyone—whether it’s walking the Princeton University campus, shopping at local stores, or dining at the many restaurants. Having lived here when I was younger and being a part of the community my entire life, I can confidently say Princeton is a wonderful town and community.”

It is the people that contribute most to making the town and community, and 21% of locals that responded to our survey indicated it is the diversity of those people that makes Princeton most unique and special. People come here from around the world, often to learn or work in industries such as pharmaceutical, education or sci-tech. Beyond those transplanted for a job, there are immigrants, both documented and undocumented, who come to be near others from their former communities. This population brings with it diversity of thought, socioeconomics, education, ethnic influences and more. Due to the presence of Princeton University, Institute for Advanced Study and Princeton Theological Seminary, town tends to be filled with brilliant minds. Many love that about Princeton! These geniuses could be anywhere and most just go about their day, like everyone else. As one respondent said, “You can stand in line and be next to a Nobel Laureate!”

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The university town, to many, also offers a small town feel with the bonus of city-type amenities. The opportunity of having much within walking distance and plenty to see and do, has many loving Princeton.

“For us we love that it is walkable, and it is safe for families. High schoolers like to gather with friends. There is always something to do, watch or participate in and around town. People are kind and town is small,” a local expressed.

Walking around in the less inundated areas of town are also a highlight to many. Whether it’s just around one’s neighborhood or to the local recreation areas like Grover Park. Princetonians also love heading into the natural areas like Herrontown Woods, Witherspoon Woods or Pettoranello Gardens.

Such activity outdoors can make one quite hungry, and locals have their go-to restaurants and eateries for sure. Conte’s topped the list with many loving their pizza pies. Blue Point Grill is also a favorite, from the oysters to the Chilean sea bass and grilled shrimp. Their sides are also beloved. One thing is for sure, our readers love the ethnic variety of cuisine around town including Thai, Indian and Latin American.

“I am a dedicated foodie who loves to indulge in new culinary experiences. Some of my guilty go-tos in Princeton include Cross Culture, Nomad, Conte’s, and yes, in the great ice cream debate, I am a the Bent Spoon fan. I love to marry salty and sweet flavors,” shares Princeton Public Schools Interim Superintendent, Kathie Foster.

If it’s just a drink one is craving, Small World Coffee seems to have a market on options that satisfy. Coffee, Scarlet Palmer Iced Tea, Iced London Fog and the hot chocolate are some of the most loved. Hot chocolate, either regular or spicy, is also a hit from the Bent Spoon. When it comes to adult beverages, Kristine’s is a top choice for its Cosmopolitan, French Martini and French 75. Some also love the beers at Triumph and the sangria made at Mediterra.

If one is in town, they might also take a moment to stop at their favorite shop. Princeton Record Exchange is loved for its selection of music and new vinyl options. jaZams, whether for gifts or just fun, is another top choice. For more gift choices (for both oneself and others!), our survey respondents shared they love to go to Dandelion, Toobydoo, The Museum Store, Princeton Makes, Faherty and Homestead.

But what about when others come to visit? Besides the great downtown, what is the #1 place our readers recommend visitors go? 45% of respondents said it must be Princeton University.

“Enter Princeton University’s Campus at the Nassau Hall entrance. Meander, read monuments, and take a moment to meditate at the breath-taking Princeton Chapel,” shared a resident.

The beautiful campus, Nassau Hall itself and notably Princeton University Art Museum (when it reopens) are also of strongest suggestion. Additionally, there are off-campus sites that enhance the municipality that many love to share when one comes to town, such as the homes of Albert Einstein and Paul Robeson, as well as McCarter Theatre.

“Princeton is an amazing place; it is full of culture, has a lively atmosphere, and is surrounded by natural beauty,” says Princeton Symphony Orchestra Conductor and Musical Director, Rossen Milanov. “I look forward to the Princeton Festival on the grounds of Morven Museum & Garden each June.”

Morven, former home of Richard Stockton, signer of the Declaration of Independence, and then to five New Jersey governors, is an historic site that is unique to Princeton. In this town, there are many other locations and stories that also help it stand apart. Nearly 25% of those that responded to our survey shared Princeton Battlefield is the historic spot they love most. Site of the Battle of Princeton and a turning point of the American Revolution, there are monuments to read there, reenactments through the year and the original home of Thomas Clarke. Locals also shared some lesser-known chronicles of the past that they love about Princeton.

“I love learning about the African American history of Princeton. Beyond Paul Robeson, I don’t think enough people are aware of Black Princeton history,” one stated. Another reminds us of “the story behind the stars below certain Princeton University campus dorm windows commemorating alumni who died serving our country.”

Beyond the sites and stories like those mentioned, available to all, there are also the personal histories that are created by those who have spent a lifetime in Princeton. Princeton Council President Mia Sacks is a 3rd generation Princetonian. It is her family’s lineage and what has been experienced here that creates an unbreakable love of Princeton for her.

“Because my family’s history has been so shaped by this town, living in Princeton is a frequently nostalgic, sometimes bittersweet, experience for me. I have memories going back to childhood on almost every street. My grandmother loved trees and many of the ones she planted around town are still thriving. When I drive along Washington Road, it reminds me of the magical hospital fete that happened in June every year, and I miss it. I also miss all the family-owned shops along Nassau Street that no longer exist,” Sacks recalls. “One thing I appreciate about our town is that people do not dress ostentatiously. I have clogs from Hulits and wool sweaters from Landaus that I bought decades ago, and still wear.”

And she is likely not the only one! Maybe you can pull out your old clogs or sweater this winter next time you head out for your favorite bite, for a walk in the woods or simply to experience all one could love about Princeton.

Love in Letters: To the Women in Their Lives, as Written by Albert Einstein and T.S. Eliot

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Ah! The art of a love letter! When was the last time you took out pen and paper, to share your deepest thoughts with the one you love? There is a passion that can only transcend in this form. Today, it’s likely Facetime that keeps long distance lovers connected and with the loss of cursive teachings these days, what would a love letter even look like between two paramours from Gen Z?

Today’s young lovebirds might use emojis or social media acronyms like ICYMI (In Case You Missed It) or YOLO (You Only Live Once) while messaging through SnapChat. While meant to be private, salvaged love notes from the past offer deep insight into the times, relationships and more. Will someone be able to access SnapChat, Instagram or even read old text messages 80 years from now? There certainly will be little stored from Facetime conversations to have an historic recording of what was being shared between two loves today. While we are always reminded of the digital trail one can leave, there is a wonder if love messages from 2025 will be accessible in the future or whether the art form is lost in the past.

The written love letter, permanently noted by hand or typed onto paper, saved and later discovered, has provided insight into loves and so much more from the past. Two such love-stories with Princeton connections were long kept secret but shared in recent years with the public through their own words, providing intimate looks into these highly recognized lovers. Meant to be burned, letters from once-Princeton local, Institute for Advanced Study’s faculty member and Nobel Prize-winning physicist Albert Einstein, share a side often not seen by the public. Additionally, the heartfelt words of Nobel Laureate poet and former unofficial artist in residence at Princeton’s Institute for Advanced Study, T.S. Eliot, provide an otherwise possibly unknown peek into his inspiration.

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THE RELATIONSHIPS REVEALED

The Einstein letters, written to his lover Margarita Konenkova, reveal someone who truly cares about another, who wants to share the daily ins-and-outs of his life and spend cherished time together. Six (of many) letters were given by Konenkova to Marjorie Bishop (then her neighbor) with strict instructions, that unless claimed by 1955, Bishop had sole authority as to their disposal. Bishop even wrote a note, instructing in 1960, in the case of her death, the letter contents in the box were to be burned. But they were not. Instead, 20 years after receipt, it appears Bishop changed her mind and gave them to psychoanalyst Muriel Gardiner in 1969. She wanted them preserved and sent them the Sigmund Freud Archives for safe keeping. To do that, the archives placed them in the care of Library of Congress where, 50 years later, they were opened and today they remain.

The 50-year span was an effort to ensure that the secret love affair, known to few, not be revealed while Einstein, Konenkova and any of their younger relatives were still alive. Why? At least partially because Konenkova was still married, though arguably quite lonely. She and Einstein met when her sculptor husband was commissioned to create a bust of Einstein. In 2019, the world was finally exposed to six never-before-seen passionate love letters from Albert Einstein to Margarita Konenkova, dating back to 1944.

Courtesy: Emily Hale Letters from T. S. Eliot; Manuscripts Division, Department of Special Collections, Princeton University Library

Letters written from T.S. Eliot to Emily Hale similarly share deep affection, warmth and a desire to truly know each other. The letters also faced restrictions as they were barred from release until 50 years after Eliot or Hale’s death, whichever came later. Hale passed in 1969 and in 2020 the letters were revealed at Princeton University’s Firestone Library. They were personally donated there by Hale herself. In this instance, 1,131 letters written by Eliot between 1930 and 1957 remain available for research. All correspondence back from Hale are gone, burned by Eliot, but the collection does include letters Hale wrote to others, detailing their relationship as well as including photographs and other memorabilia.

Through it all we learn Hale and Eliot met in the Boston area in 1912. She was a speech and drama teacher at Simmons, Scripps and Smith Colleges while he was a graduate student at Harvard University. They reconnected in 1922 when she visited London, and he confessed his affection towards her (he was still married but estranged. His wife suffered severe mental illness and as a strong Christian, he would not divorce her). Hale claims she did not reciprocate the feelings at that time.

“You are always with me in imagination in these ways, at night and morning and during the day, and even when I am saying these things that you cannot agree with. During these recent months I have been much tormented on your account,” Eliot wrote in a 1936 correspondence. The letters in this collection display a strong emotional relationship, that at first was mostly one-sided but later became mutual. Mostly written while Eliot was abroad in England, the contents reveal that Hale was his muse and sheds an incredible amount of light on the references and words used in Eliot’s works over the years. It was learned, in a statement to Princeton University Librarian William Dix, upon donating the letters, that it was in the mid-1930s, Hale began to reciprocate Eliot’s passion. His wife had been committed to an institution, so he spent summers visiting Hale. She reveals, in her statement, that she had hoped to marry him (once his wife passed, which happened in the mid-1940s). To the surprise of many, that did not happen. Instead of choosing his muse, in 1947 he married another woman in England and wrote no further poems.

WHAT THE LETTERS SAY

Copyright: The Albert Einstein Archives, Hebrew University

The original letters written by Einstein to Konenkova were written in his native tongue, German. A Library of Congress volunteer translated them into English, allowing the public to further review, study and feel their connection. Josh Levy, Historian of Science and Technology at Library of Congress explained along with archivist Rachel McNellis in the 2023 blog Unfolding History, Love and Intrigue at Princeton: Newly Opened Letters from Einstein’s Love Affair with Margarita Konenkova that “The letters alternate between big ideas and the human scale of everyday life. In one, Einstein expresses his excitement for Konenkova’s upcoming birthday, but also insists that ‘birthday parties are stupid bourgeois affairs.’ In another, he retreats from his disdain for birthday celebrations, noting how thrilled he was when colleagues Peter and Margot Bergmann gave him Vivaldi concerti for his own birthday – even if it meant he needed to learn to play the violin again.”

Through Einstein’s letters to Konenkova you can feel a strong love as he shares some of his deepest thoughts. He details the “Half-Nest,” an area in his home where he liked to enjoy time with Konenkova when she would visit. The letters at Firestone Library represent only a portion of those that were written. In conjunction with others stored at Konenkova Memorial Museum in Moscow and some sold in auction by Sotheby’s in 1998, there is rumor that Konenkova was more than just a loving participant and possibly a Soviet spy. In a letter written in 1945, Einstein speaks of his conversations about atomic weapons, just after Hiroshima and Nagasaki had been bombed. Nothing secretive is revealed but were these and other similar conversations leaked back to the Soviets? Researchers don’t believe so, but one may never know!

Beyond their love affair, Einstein writes about visits with brilliant minds and friends Robert Oppenheimer, Bertrand Russell, Wolfgang Pauli and Kurt Gödel. To him, it is just another day, but to the reader today it is a glimpse into a life most can’t relate to. Each note begins with “Dearest Margarita!” and ends signed, “A.E.”

Copyright: The Albert Einstein Archives, Hebrew University

From the mundane to the emotional, here are some examples of other things Einstein shared in his letters:

January 4, 1944: “My flu is much better but not completely over yet. I think, however, that I will be able to get up tomorrow.”

Jan 31, 1944: “I am very much looking forward to your visit and everything we will experience and do together. Be greeted and kissed by your A. E.”

March 15, 1944: “As always, I was at the institute this morning and drew my scrawls onto the blackboard and Pauli was there too. I found out about some really beautiful things and that was the true and real birthday present.” He also added, “In the afternoon after the traditional sojourn in the Nest – unfortunately alone.”

Sept. 13, 1945: “I read the brochure of a colleague about the atomic bomb that triggered my honest admiration. I realize that local physicists are against keeping experiences permanently secret because they feel that this would poison the political atmosphere and might cause new war risks. All these are welcome signs, so one doesn’t have to be too pessimistic.”

In the final letter of this collection, also dated Sept. 13, 1945, Einstein implies Konenkova is torn, though of exactly what, it is not clear. He promises to be there for her, no matter her choice. “But I assure of one thing. If you will choose the hard way I will act in a way that you will not experience any pain, even if you would search with an opera-glass that can look through everything. At younger ages I could not have made such a promise because nature’s power can’t be overcome by will, at least not unpunished. But it is different with a plant in late fall, strict ruling can only be good. You can rest assured in this regard.”

Courtesy: Emily Hale Letters from T. S. Eliot; Manuscripts Division, Department of Special Collections, Princeton University Library

Upon studying the Eliot collection, those who know his work can note connections between the intimacy of Eliot and Hale reflected in his mid to late pieces. No one can clearly understand why Eliot chose not to marry Hale in the end, who appears to have wanted to further their relationship. But it is clear that the years in which he clamored for her affection and those they shared time together embellished his creative genius.

Before one delves into the details, it is obvious the sheer number of words and thoughts that are put into each letter are monstrous. His letters were formal and long when written on a typewriter, but sometimes when a typewriter wasn’t available, he hand-wrote shorter notes just to stay connected. Even on the typed letters, Eliot took care to handwrite her name and sign his. Much like the letters from Einstein, Eliot’s intimate thoughts are shared in combination with details of where he went, who he is seeing and what needs to be done. It can be fascinating to read his hopes and desires, from the mundane to the grand.

Courtesy: Emily Hale Letters from T. S. Eliot; Manuscripts Division, Department of Special Collections, Princeton University Library

One wishes for more moments they have together, as Eliot writes often of his travels, including plans to visit Hale or have her come visit him. Some examples of other things Eliot shared in his letters include:

Aug 2, 1934: “You also know perfectly well that I would literally give my eyesight to be able to marry you. Though unworthy of such happiness. I admit that I love you more intensely and appreciatively than ever – though at no time in the past would this have seemed to me possible – and probably this process will go on. But, my love, my love, what do you think I CAN do?”

Jan. 3, 1935: “I believe it would be better for Vivienne if she could be committed to an institution, but in this country, it is very difficult to restrain anyone’s liberty…I should think that eventually she was bound to get into financial difficulties.”

Nov. 4, 1938: “It always pains me to think of much greater advantages I have than you in the way of daily life: it is only the problem of how to get a restful holiday that seems equally insoluble for both of us. That, however, makes the arrangement of your winters all the more important. How I wish I could look after both for you! But this is a thought so poignant that I do not allow my mind to dwell on it – yet it is perhaps a good thing to express it now and then.”

Jan. 11, 1951: “I have been trying to work out a provisional scheme for a play, and to settle on my characters and their relations enough to sketch a few scenes. But success with one play does not seem to increase my confidence in approaching another, but rather the contrary…”

HOW TO READ MORE

There is so much said between the couples through the years of correspondence, we don’t have time or space to get into it all. But it is clear they both had strong relationships, often yearned for each other and were true confidants.

If you want to read more, the letters from T.S. Eliot are available for viewing at the Special Collections Reading Room inside Princeton University’s Firestone Library. They are available to anyone that has a school or government issued ID. More detailed information on how to register and request the materials for viewing in person can be found here, on the Princeton University Library website. You can also request digital access to the Emily Hale Letters from T.S. Eliot (C0686) by creating a guest Special Collections Research Account that will provide access to navigate through the selected letters which have been digitized.

To get a closer look at six of the letters Einstein wrote to Konenkova, you can also go in person and see them at Library of Congress in Washington DC. Simply request this collection at the reference desk in the Manuscript Division. If not local, you can contact them for digital versions.

And thank goodness for such digitization! With SnapChat as the dominant means of communication for young lovebirds today, it is unlikely much will be salvaged to share anything about today’s hot, secret love affairs with future generations. It is a deep contrast to the detailed love letters by Einstein and Eliot! Luckily, the advancements in technology allow archivists to store the old letters for years to come, storing them digitally as well, so hopefully they will continue to be available 80 years from now for the romantic that seeks to read them.

Editor’s Note

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Welcome, 2025! It’s a New Year, and that Means Changes Are-a-Coming! So, that’s what we’re writing about in this month’s issue of Princeton Perspectives.

What changes? Well, there are political changes, both federal and stateside. There are also financial and economic possibilities. We take a closer look at all of them. Some have people fearful; others have folks excited.

What changes are you looking forward to as 2025 kicks off? We asked locals in town, and those willing to stop in the cold weather to talk with us deserve to be heard! You can find some positive influence in this month’s Pulse of Princeton video.

On Monday, President Donald Trump will be sworn in for his second non-consecutive term as President of the United States. What’s in store for us locally after he takes office? The article The New Presidency and its Potential Impacts on Mercer County takes a closer look at the various ways the presidency could play a role in things important to you or those around you.

Change is always a source of discomfort when it comes to how it may influence the economy. Will it be positive or negative? There is still quite a bit of unknown, but the article 2025 New Jersey Economic Outlook shares some insight from a guest writer who has his pulse on the local economy.

Every four years, after the country chooses a new leader, the state of New Jersey chooses one, too. NJ is Getting a New Governor. What do the Prospects Look Like? is your source for a first-of -the-year analysis of what could be – from a guest writer heavily knowledgeable about it all.

As soon as 2025 hit, so did a new gas tax. Have You Noticed It’s Pennies More at the Pump? explains what, why and how this change took place.

Speaking of change, Princeton Public Schools is getting new leadership, and the NJ Hall of Fame inducted some impressive Princetonians. Perspectives Revisited shares more details on each.

The start of the new year can bring excitement for what’s to come, and concerns about what could change. We hope this issue helps you to feel more informed as, together, we work through the changes and await what is yet to come.

Pulse of Princeton: What changes are you looking forward to as 2025 kicks off?

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The New Presidency and its Potential Impacts on Mercer County

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On January 20th, Donald Trump will be inaugurated for his second term as President of the United States. President Trump won the national election with 312 electoral votes over Kamala Harris’ 226. In New Jersey, Trump did not get the win, however his loss by fewer than 250,000 votes (<6%) was an extremely close margin for the Garden State.

Where the vote was not nearly as close was in Mercer County, where Harris earned 65.67% of the votes compared to Trump’s 31.92%. In municipalities such as Hamilton and Robbinsville, there was much stronger Trump support than elsewhere in the county, with Trump earning 46% of votes in Hamilton and nearly 43% in Robbinsville.

Most of those that support President Trump are looking forward to the changes that could come about when he takes over the reins later this month. Most Harris supporters are more skeptical. Democratic Mercer County Executive Dan Benson told Princeton Perspectives, “I can’t think of an administration more diametrically different than myself from a policy perspective, as evident by Trump’s support of policies as outlined in Project 2025. At a county level, the biggest concern will be potential federal cuts to essential social safety net programs and county infrastructure investments.”

While Trump has publicly distanced himself from Project 2025, he has spoken of desires for various policy changes and, during his previous term in office, attempted to make some of them. Time will tell what comes to fruition, but there are thoughts about direct impacts they could have on those living in Mercer County.

SOCIAL SAFETY NETS

As Benson alluded to, Trump made some waiver changes to Medicaid during his first term, such as work requirements. They were removed under the Biden administration, but there is an expectation those may come back when he returns to office. Also of concern for lower income residents, there is speculation Trump may attempt once again to make cuts to institutions like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which enables food insecure households to purchase what they need.

More than 20,000 Mercer households participated in SNAP as of April 2024. Food insecurity is a major concern, and Mercer County already has numerous organizations such as Meals on Wheels, Trenton Area Soup Kitchen, Jewish Family & Children’s Service and Princeton Mobile Food Pantry providing groceries and meals to those that need. Locals might become more heavily reliant on such assistance should the largest federal welfare program, which was supported by over $112B federal funds in 2023, face reductions or restrictions

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“While the future of federal programs like SNAP remains uncertain, any potential reductions could significantly impact vulnerable residents in our community,” explains Rhodalynn Jones, Princeton Human Services Director. “Our mission is to actively enhance the quality of life for vulnerable, economically disadvantaged individuals, and those in need by coordinating essential programs and services, advocating for their well-being, and empowering those we serve. To that end, we remain vigilant and proactive, continually assessing our programs to ensure we are prepared to address any changes that may arise.”

No specific plans have been shared yet by the incoming Trump administration.

INFRASTRUCTURE SUPPORT

What is known is that one role of the next presidency will be doling out $294 billion towards state and local infrastructure projects as it rounds out the final two years of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the “bipartisan Infrastructure law.” As Benson referenced, where and how Trump chooses to direct funding could have profound effects on projects around Mercer County. In 2024, County administration was awarded more than $53 million in federal grants to fund projects including the Lincoln Avenue Bridge Replacement in Trenton, a new taxiway and the terminal replacement project at Trenton Mercer Airport.

DEFEDERALIZING EDUCATION

For funding and organizational reasons, Trump has repeatedly mentioned on the campaign trail desires to save money and improve education by adjusting or eliminating the U.S. Department of Education and sending further controls back to the states. He will not be the first President to attempt such reorganization, but it is not something he can unilaterally do.

While much of the decision making about how schools run is already done at the state level, this department has some weighty responsibilities such as through the Office of Special Education & Rehabilitative Services as well as the Office for Civil Rights, which provide many opportunities and oversee protections for various students.

“Trenton Public Schools will continue to implement elements of Titles IX and VI until we are alerted of any changes. We are committed to provide all students equitable access to education and programming in Trenton,” says James Earle, Superintendent of Trenton Public Schools.

While life continues as is for now, Republicans are eager to let state and local agencies determine what is done in schools, as they say they know their populations better. Democrats are concerned about how well things will work, if eliminated or not all together under one department. In addition to what is provided by the offices mentioned above, public schools also rely on federal funding.

The U.S. Department of Education provides 4-12% of the overall funding for public schools. This, in addition to the approximately 37% in aid from NJ (Mercer County schools will get over $600M in state aid for schools in 2025), provides important assistance. New Jersey K-12 schools as a whole receive $2.81B in federal aid, but some districts rely on it more than others.

For example, to ensure high quality education, close achievement gaps and improve student outcomes, the federal government provides Title 1 money to schools based on the size of their low-income populations. Trenton Public School District received over $9M in Title 1 funds for the 2023-2024 school year ($7.5M Title 1 Part A and $1.8M Title 1 SIA).

“Trenton Public Schools receives a substantial amount of federal funding which is used to provide targeted supplemental support for students in Trenton. A reduction or elimination of these funds would significantly limit academic, social & emotional and mental health supports offered to students,” shares Earle. “Furthermore, these funds allow schools to connect with families when addressing issues such as chronic absenteeism, reading and math tutoring supports, and reading and math interventions at home.”

In total, Trenton schools got assistance from eight different federal funding sources last year. And beyond the capital city, at least half of Mercer County municipalities have also benefitted recently from Title I support and most districts appreciate other federal funding as well.

Beyond public schools, the U.S. Department of Education also handles loans and grants for higher education, which has some concerned. $2,410 per student was provided in NJ last year by the Federal government. Insiders say this important resource is not going anywhere.

Trump’s expressed desires are to eliminate what he deems the unnecessary parts of the DOE and distribute coverage of others to different departments. For example, the Department of Justice could take over the Office for Civil Rights and funding, such as under Title I, could be overseen by the Department of Health & Human Services. Critics are concerned about organizational chaos, and that without proper oversight, distribution disruption or even elimination could wreak havoc.

Congress would need to approve any changes to this government agency, which could be a hurdle.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME?

What is more likely is a discussion amongst the new administration about whether or not the U.S. should continue the tradition of Daylight Savings Time. As 2024 was coming to an end, Trump posted on X, “Daylight Saving Time is inconvenient and very costly to our nation.”

The practice, where clocks jump forward an hour in the spring, and back an hour in the fall, began in the United States around 1918. In 1966 the Uniform Time Act made it a uniformed practice, giving states an opt out to remain in Standard time, which Hawaii and Arizona took advantage of. In 2022, the U.S. Senate passed the Sunshine Protection Act, aiming to make Daylight Savings Time permanent, but it never was finalized in the House. This leaves an opportunity for the Trump administration.

It is said that Daylight Savings Time was adopted in the U.S. during World War I, for the purpose of conserving energy. But there has been much research since to question whether that is an actual benefit. There has also been rumor that Daylight Savings Time was enacted to allow more use of daylight, particularly to benefit the farming industry. This has also been questioned. In fact, in 1919 farmers rallied against the time change citing “spring forward” costs them the early morning sunlight hours.

Mercer County has approximately 300 farms, the majority growing crops. It turns out Daylight Savings Time may not be as meaningful to their business as other concerns.

“We ignore daylight savings and it does not matter to us if it stays or goes. When it is lighter earlier, we start working earlier, and when the biannual time change hits we adjust our start and stop times accordingly so that our effective daylight schedule stays constant. Far more impactful to us on a work schedule is climate change, which has led to far hotter summers and the need to begin the day in the dark to beat the heat,” explains Jess Niederer, Owner and Operator of Chickadee Creek Farm in Pennington.

TARIFF-IC IMPACT

Other Garden State businesses could also feel affects after Trump takes office, through his promise to raise tariffs on imports. His comments have predominantly targeted China, Canada and Mexico where it is has been said the increase would be to partly help American trade but also to curb the influx of fentanyl, said to be influenced by those countries. Last week, at a Mar-a-Lago press conference, the incoming President repeated part of this desire stating, “We’re going to put very serious tariffs on Mexico and Canada.”

Imports are an important part of the supply chain here in NJ. There are companies that import materials from China and use them to create goods they then export to Canada, for example. Canada is the largest importer of goods from New Jersey, and the top importer to New Jersey is China, so the impacts are felt very close to home. Those impacts could be both positive and negative.

In mid-December, Christopher Emigholz, Chief Government Affairs Officer for the New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA), testified to the NJ Assembly Oversight, Reform & Federal Relations Committee about the various impacts higher tariffs could bring to the Garden State. On the downside, he stated that retaliatory tariffs could threaten NJ exports, which are big business here. He added, they could also increase costs and cause inflation. On the flipside, if tariffs are carefully implemented so they are on products that are easily found stateside, Emigholz stated that could benefit our domestic operations. Additionally, if the government does not impose the tariffs on products that can only be found in a foreign nation, there could be less harm. Other positive impacts he testified to were that tariffs could be bargaining leverage for a more open and fair trading environment and tariffs could punish and correct bad actors, such as China.

“I think it is safe to say that all businesses as well as all consumers could be impacted by tariffs depending on how broad their implementation is. The biggest impact may be on manufacturers that either make, use, sell or compete against the products that may have tariffs, and there are about 500 manufacturing firms in Mercer County that employ about 14,000 people per the most recent data from NJMEP,” Emigholz told Princeton Perspectives. “Their supply chain and sales to other nations may be majorly disrupted. And what is great about manufacturers, but hurts more in this context, is that manufacturers have one of the biggest multipliers of any business in the economy, so any impact is magnified for the better or for the worse in this case.”

According to the International Trade Administration, from 2014-2023 New Jersey imported $144.3B worth of goods and exported $43.3B. As it relates to the impending tariffs, $13.6B of imports in 2023 came from China, $8.9B from Canada. In Mercer County, businesses are bracing to see what is to come.

Buildings material supplier Hamilton Building Supply says it is hard to know how or if tariffs will impact their business, so right now much is conjecture. But they do import most of their framing lumber from Canada, and that makes up 20% of their business.

“We’ve seen tariffs in the past and there’s been minimal impacts on our products, based on the magnitude of products that get effected, “explains John Perner, President & CEO Hamilton Building Supply. He says representatives at lumber mills are providing them insight into current and future pricing and at least for the foreseeable future, it is business as usual for 2025. “The other part is there’s other manufacturers we work with for windows, doors and molding that may import raw materials like pine from South America and other soft woods from Canada. That could have an impact on the cost of raw materials that goes into how windows are built and other specialty items and that could impact costs of materials at our yard.”

Perner adds a potential positive is that approximately 80% of his business comes from American-made products. If there is parity in pricing between American-made products and those from oversees, he expects the American manufacturers will get more support.

For the average Mercer County resident, it is possible increased tariffs could impact inflation. Emigholz suggests that those who work at manufacturing, trade or logistics could potentially feel a hit in terms of wage/benefit increases, hiring or even job cuts.

WHAT 2025 WILL BRING

There are still nearly two weeks left until the 47th Presidency begins. Until then, everything is talk and speculation. Should Trump go forward with any of the items mentioned above, it will likely take time to implement the changes and more so to see and feel their impacts. Princeton Perspectives will stay on top of any major affects to come.

Have You Noticed It’s Pennies More at the Pump?

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Did you know that you are supporting New Jersey’s critical infrastructure needs each time you fill up your tank at the gas station? And, as of January 1st, you are supporting it with an additional 2.6 cents per gallon.

This new increase, for the Petroleum Products Gross Receipt Tax (PPGRT) portion of your “gas tax” (now at 34.4 cents per gallon), can be adjusted annually. It is added to the fixed rate Motor Fuels Tax portion, meaning there is a total 44.9 cents now taxed on every gallon of gas sold in NJ. With this funding, the state is hoping to provide necessary support to the Transportation Trust Fund (TTF) program which provides funding for the state to fix, change or improve things like roads, bridges, rail and buses.

This may all sound a bit high level to those of you simply seeking to drive around and fill up your tank. But those cents do add up.

“I’ve heard about it,” Atlantic City resident Aaron Kleiner tell Princeton Perspectives, as his tank is being refilled. “I have to get gas either way, but for the next few months I’m going to be commuting from Atlantic City to Princeton, so it is going to add up.”

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The good news, even with the increase, is that gas in Mercer County remains about the same as what is sold in Atlantic County. It is also nearly 18 cents cheaper than across the river in Bucks County, PA and a lower cost than all neighboring counties in NJ to the north and east of Princeton.

At Fowler’s Gas on Nassau Street in town, he knows the decision to increase the gas tax comes out every fall. Occasionally, he says a customer complains about the price. Most don’t seem to have an issue.

“I haven’t seen any impact in volume at all since the start of the year,” shares owner Gary Fowler.

At the Exxon Station at the edge of Princeton, situated between State Highway 206 and Cherry Valley Road, the owner agrees he does not see a direct impact of an increased gas tax, but indirectly there could be an affect.

“I have a deal for commission based on a per gallon incentive. No matter the prices, I get paid for each gallon I sell,” owner Sunny explains.

This means if the tax going up leads fewer cars to purchase as many gallons of gas as they have been, Sunny will feel the pain. For now, drivers at his station don’t seem to fear.

“I did not even know there was an increase,” Princeton local Hana Rozensweig states. “I fill up when I need to, it usually costs me about $45 to fill the tank [of her Honda CR-V].”

Nearby Griggstown Farm resident says not only is the increase having no impact on him, he’s buying premium these days. “I am putting 93 in. I am trying to wash the engine right now,” explains Hasan Ahun. “I knew the gas tax was going up, but it’s OK, I need it.”

Sunny fears that the gas tax added to increased gas prices is going to ultimately push more customers towards electric vehicles. He says he’s already seeing it. People are not happy when gas gets more expensive.

“When it was $1.99, my volume was way up! Now, at $2.99, it is down by about 50%,” Sunny notes.

Despite New Jersey’s efforts to get drivers to crossover to electric vehicles, it is projected by the NJ Dept. of Treasury that consumption of gasoline and diesel fuel in 2025 will be 0.6% higher than was seen last year. So, hopefully the cost of crude gas will go down and help the independent gas station owners bring in business.