By Victoria Hurley-Schubert, Staff Writer
The retiring recreation director was honored with his own day in Princeton Township Jan. 24, 2011 and given a proclamation by the Township Committee at its Monday night meeting for his years of service throughout his lengthy career.
”Whereas Jack Roberts will retire on Aug. 11, 2011, after 41 years of service,” said Mayor Chad Goerner as he read from the proclamation. “I wasn’t even thought of 41 years ago!” he added, to many chuckles.
Each committee person heaped praise and expressed gratitude for all Mr. Roberts has done for the community.
”Words can barely express the gratitude I feel for the service you’ve contributed to this community,” said Committeewoman Sue Nemeth. “The first time I went to the pool, I heard you yelling from the tower and I was struck how everyone froze to listen to hang on your every word and there’s a very good reason you’ve done tremendous service to the community.”
For others, Mr. Roberts helped shape who they are today because of him.
”I am the person I am today because of role models like Jack Roberts,” said Committeeman Lance Liverman, who started as an employee of the Recreation Department when he was 14 or 15 years old. “He shared a belief in youth that today i look at and say what a difference some positive words sometimes or someone that will say you can do it or you an make it. I think that Jack was more than a boss, he was a brother, a father, an uncle, mean schoolteacher; he was everything.”
Mr. Roberts was hired as assistant director of recreation in Princeton in March 1970 and his primary job was to manage the pool and tennis operation. Back then, the recreation department was a three-person staff Mr. Roberts, Director Don Barr and a secretary.
”You could always tell Jack loved his job and it rubbed off on everyone he came in contact with,” added Committeewoman Liz Lempert.
Several Recreation Board members expressed their thanks for his service.
”Jack had me turn my advocation into a vocation so that every day I’m on vacation,” said one person who did not give his name. “This is a man who teaches men, not just children, the right way to behave and I say thank you and I’m so happy you’re my friend.”
Mr. Roberts won’t be hurrying out of the Recreation Department so fast, as he is still involved with the revolving trust fund.

