Van Dyke 'jewel' added to S.B. treasure chest
Over five years of effort to reach the impossible dream have finally paid off for South Brunswick, Middlesex County, and the state of New Jersey as the Van Dyke/Pulda farm has been saved from development.

I for one could not be happier. Over the past 10 years or so, I have watched hundreds of acres of prime farmland fall to industrial and residential development in the Northeastern portion of South Brunswick. Like a lone sentinel to a past life of fields of corn and soybeans, the Van Dyke/Pulda Farm stood, awaiting its fate.

As it has for more than 300 years, the old homestead managed to survive against all odds, thanks to the determination of residents and public officials who just wouldn't give up.

If I tried to list the names of all the people involved in saving the farm, I'd have a list too long to print. But certain people definitely need recognition here. Every member of the South Brunswick Township Council played a part, of course, with Councilman Chris Killmurray always in the front. Councilmen Charlie Carley, Joe Camarota and Mac Shah and Mayor Frank Gambatese have held firm in their commitment to the cause. Freeholder Carol Barret has carried her dedication from the council to the county board and has been another prime mover in the acquisition. Tom Kelso, the county counsel, played a big role in negotiations all along the way. To all, along with the whole freeholder board and state officials whose names I don't yet even know, thank you.

The South Brunswick Sentinel, several local daily newspapers, and The New York Times all found our story compelling enough to print, keeping our efforts in the public eye. Reporters and editors have come and gone along the way, and I hope to thank them all as time goes on.

Most of all, however, I need to recognize my fellow citizens, residents of not only South Brunswick but neighboring towns as well, who constantly supported our efforts. We were cheered on more than once by people who kept telling us not to give up. To everyone who offered even a word of encouragement, thank you.

South Brunswick now has a new jewel to add to its treasure chest. The Van Dyke/Pulda Farm now belongs to us all. Thank you to everyone who cared enough to make it so.
Jean E. Dvorak
Jamesburg