Volume 17, No. 6
June 27th - July 9th 2013 FREE PUBLICATION
riverviewobserver.net
201-349-4336
Pg. 2 On the Cover Riverwalk Pg. 4 Outdoor Market Cool Pg. 5 Charm School Hollywood Pg. 14 Behind the Scenes New Brand
Pg. 16 of Fitness in NJ
Fun Things to Do in Hudson and Other Jersey Hot Spots
I
By Sally Deering
ts official – summer has arrived! And that means it’s time to check out fun happenings here in Hudson and beyond the county line. This jaunty little list of things to do is just a drop in the ice bucket, a sampling of sorts to get you thinking outside the box you call your apartment. Pgs. 20, 22-24 TURN YOUR UNWANTED JEWELRY INTO CASH See page 8
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Get out, get wet, have fun!
SHAKE, PADDLE AND ROLL
Liberty State Park, Jersey City Kayak Eco Tours invites Liberty State Park visitors to explore the natural beauty of the Hudson River Estuary by kayak. Tours embark from the canoe/kayak launch located at the south side of Liberty State
Park near the park office and highlight the local wildlife and habitats of Caven Point. Trips run approximately two hours and include safety and paddle instruction. No prior paddling experience is required, but participants should be comfortable navigating in relatively deep water. Life Jackets (PFDs) are provided and required. This program is appropriate for adults and children 16 years and older; kids 16-18 need to be accompanied by an adult. For registration and payment information, or any other questions, contact Liberty State Park at (201) 915-3402. Program fee: $15/person. Space is limited and preregistration is required. Thurs-Sun through Aug. 30. For more info: www.state.nj.us/ dep/parksandforests/parks/liberty.html con’t pg. 2
on the cover . A BRIDGE NOT FAR Al Slootsky Playground, 4th St, Bayonne On Sat, July 20, PealCollection of Bayonne conducts “A Walk across the Bridge” a free and informative walking tour about the Bayonne Bridge. “This walk may be something you have always wanted to do,” says Peal partner Priscilla Ege, “and now with the raising of the bridge to commence, it may be the best time.” The tour begins at 10 am at the Al Slootsky Playground on 4th Street between Kennedy Boulevard and Avenue “A”. PealCollection will discuss the history of the bridge as well as the raising-of-the-roadway project before progressing with the one mile walk to and from the arch of the bridge. This leisurely walk will include spectacular views of New York and the Hudson River and discussions on points of interest. The rain date will be Saturday July 27 at 10 am. To register for this free walking
..
RACKING TWO-WHEELERS
By Sally Deering
tour, call (201) 339-4093, leave your name and contact number.
FORE HCCC STUDENT AID Forest Hill Field Club, Bloomfield, NJ The Hudson County Community College Foundation invites area residents and businesses to participate in its Tenth Annual Golf Outing on Mon, July 8, at Forest Hill Field Club in Bloomfield. The Annual Golf Outing — one of four major fundraisers sponsored by the Foundation — has activities for golfers and non-golfers with a limited number of tickets available. The Foundation generates financial support to benefit deserving HCCC students by providing them with scholarships. Complete information on the July 8th Golf Outing including registration and dress code details may be obtained by phoning the College’s Office for Development at 201-3604006 or jsansone@hccc.edu.
Jersey City Hall, Grove St, Jersey City Bike enthusiasts and those who love them are invited to join in the Bike Rack Design Competition hosted by the City of Jersey City. In its mission to leave a greener imprint, Jersey City is looking for bike rack design submissions which will be accepted from July 29 to Aug. 2. So get on your bike, cruise around and get inspired! For more info, contact www. jerseycitynj.gov. Sponsored by Bike JC, the Jersey City Art School and the City of Jersey City.
features some of greatest characters who will delight all ages. It runs through July 28th.
Order tickets online at www.shakespearenj.org. con’t pg. 3
AS ‘YOUSE’ LIKE IT The Greek Theatre at Convent Station, Convent Station, NJ This summer, the Shakespeare Theatre’s Outdoor Stage will transform into the Forest of Arden for its production of AS YOU LIKE IT by William Shakespeare at the beautiful and family-friendly amphitheater on the campus of the College of Saint Elizabeth. Shakespeare’s sweet comedy
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con’t from pg. 2 FIDDLER ON THE BARN ROOF New Jersey State Fair/Sussex County Farm & Horse Show, Augusta, NJ There will be contests galore at the New Jersey State Fair/Sussex County Farm & Horse Show in Augusta including Home-Brewed Beer; Lawnmower Racing, Turkey Calling, Cow Milking, and Fiddler-playing. There’s Polka Dancing and a New Jersey Best Cheesecake competition, too. And don’t forget the Horse Show. The New Jersey State Fair/Sussex County Farm & Horse Show features agricultural events and education, animals, exhibits, horse shows, carnival, petting zoo, crafts and vendors, flower and vegetable shows, art and photography and a chainsaw artist. It runs Aug. 2-11. For more info call 973-948-5500, or visit www.newjerseystatefair.org.
JAMMIN’ IN JULY Bellview Winery, Landisville, NJ Located on land that the Quarella family has been farming for close to a century sits Bellview Winery, one of New Jersey’s premier wineries. Every Saturday in July, from 4-8 pm, Bellview hosts live music, with sangria, and food vendors. Bring your own lawn
chairs or blankets to lie on. Leashed pets welcome. July 6: Chapter Three, soft rock and smooth oldies sounds; July 13: Ten Eddy Drive plays rock & roll covers; July 20: SunDog plays 80’s rock and pop covers; July 27: Local musician Frank Compari plays acoustic guitar. Bellview Winery, 150 Atlantic St, Landisville, NJ. For more info call (856) 697-7172 or visit www. bellviewwinery.com.
CAN YOU SPELL H-I-L-A-R-I-O-U-S? THE PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE (the Broadway musical) at the Lauren K. Woods Theatre, 400 Cedar Ave., West Long Branch What happens when six kids in the throes of puberty compete in a spelling bee? Laughs and lots of them. This Tony-winning Broadway musical is a laugh riot as kids, overseen by grown-ups who barely managed to escape childhood themselves, learn that losing and winning can be very subjective as they try to win the spelling championship of a lifetime. The show runs June 27-July 21, Wed-Sat., 8 pm; Sun at7 pm. NO SHOW July 4th. For tickets and info: (732) 263-6889; www.monmouth.edu/woodstheatre.
FRONT PORCH BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL Gazebo Park, Chester, NJ Put on your jeans and head out to Chester for the 5th annual Front Porch Bluegrass Festival which features 13 live bands from 10 am-8 pm. Admission is FREE and there will be lots of vendors and activities for the kids. All donations benefit BYG Work Camp’s mission trip with Appalachia Service Project. Sit under the tent for rain or shine entertainment! Bands include: Honky Tonk Scoundrels, Keith Wilson, Americana Troupe, Catbirds, Omar Mendez, Monday Night Pickers & more! Great food includes pulled pork, burgers, hotdogs, chicken wings, hush puppies, homemade waffles & ice cream & more! BYG Work Camp is a mission group that rebuilds homes every summer. This year 88 volunteers -- high school, college students and adults – will travel to Kentucky to make home repairs. Info@ FrontPorchBluegrassFestival.com or call (908)443-1294.
SIMPLE TWIST OF FATE IN HOBOKEN Pier “A” Park, Hoboken Let’s hope a hard rain doesn’t fall when Bob Dylan takes the stage at
Pier “A” Park on First Street and Frank Sinatra Drive in Hoboken on Fri, July 26th for a concert sponsored by Americanarama Festival of Music tour. Joining Dylan are Wilco and My Morning Jacket. For tickets go to www.stubhub.com.
Congratulations Usman on Graduating from County Prep High. We are all so proud of you and wish you nothing but the best at Steven’s University. Love Your Family Munir, Khaliah, Aisha & Arslan
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An Outdoor Bazaar of Delights for Hudson’s Waterfront The New Riverwalk Outdoor Market at Port Imperial Blvd. To Debut in West New York next month. by River View Observer Staff Writer For the first time in Hudson County there will be an outdoor, three seasons market, offering, art, vintage clothing, jewelry, collectibles, toys, antiques and more. Located on Port Imperial Blvd, in West New York and sandwiched between P.F. Chang’s Restaurant and the A&P Supermarket, the Riverwalk Outdoor Market will open for business in July. According to spokesperson Raul Vicente Jr, The Riverwalk Market will be open every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 6pm staring July 13th and running through to October 31. On July 13th the market will open with a ribbon cutting
by West New York Mayor Felix Roque, town commissioners or a representative. Family oriented activities including face painting, balloon sculpting, children’s’ tattoos and costumed cartoon characters posing with families will also mark the opening. According to Vicente vendors are still being sought in a number of categories and anyone interested in submitting an application for a 10’x16’ space can email the market manager at hpg@consultant.com. On Grand Opening day and thereafter, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm as many as 50 or more vendors will set up on designated spaces
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throughout the Lot. “Ultimately, the Riverwalk Outdoor Market will host 150 vendors“, said Vicente. The Riverwalk Outdoor Market will be operated by the Hudson Promo Group; a new Fort Lee based start-up. The Riverwalk Outdoor Market will welcome antique and vintage dealers, juried independent designers and artisans, craftsman and women and a small but special selection of food trucks. All vendors will be chosen to achieve a great variety of merchandise and the food will include a small variation of great American favorites like hamburgers, hotdogs, and corn on the cob, juices, drinks and other specialty foods which are not available at the Riverwalk Place Shopping Promenade. “We’re going to make
sure that we don’t compete with stores located at Riverwalk Place, “said Vicente. “In fact“, he added, “we will be directing shoppers to the Riverwalk Stores to insure that they benefit from any outside traffic which might be generated by the Market.” The market will be THE PLACE to shop for surprises each week, enjoy family activities and make new friends. The market is also a way to bring the families of the various surrounding Waterfront properties out for a nice fun filled shopping experience practically in their own front yard, said Vicente. At the same time local residents can find that collectible they have been looking for, that one of a kind custom set of earrings or that piece of art that the
bare space on their living room wall has been waiting for. Next season the market will be open from April to October making it possible for Waterfront residents and their neighbors to shop in the spring, summer and fall. Community children will be able to interact with each other in soft activities and games including a new game or activity each weekend just for them. Street chalking, hop scotch contests and Hoola-hooping, are just a few of the many fun things kids will be able to do. Vicente concluded by saying “So run, walk, skate, cycle or just step out of your front door……”come to market with us”…where you can find the expected and unexpected.
Cool Charm School
Donna Bostany and Lisa Butowsky Teach Kids about Manners and Social Interactions By Sally Deering Teaching children how to behave in social situations runs the gamut from handling a salad fork to a nasty bully. And that’s just what Donna Bostany of Union City is prepared to do as she launches her new business, Your Charming Child, an etiquette training program for children 4 through 12 that her sister Lisa Butowsky started a year ago in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Bostany and Butowsky are Certified Etiquette Consultants trained at the International School of Protocol in Hunt Valley, Maryland, who teach manners and social skills to kids so they can become good citizens of the world.
The sisters started teaching the classes to children in the Bucks County area and are now branching out to towns in Hudson. On Mon, Tues, and Wed, August 5, 6, and 7, at the Hoboken Man salon, Bostany will teach her first series of etiquette classes to local recruits. “Good manners help you make good decisions when dealing with other people which leads to respect for others as well as selfrespect,” Bostany says. “By having good social skills, one does not need to engage in risky behaviors, but finds that popularity comes from being a good listener, a good friend and someone who makes other people feel at ease.”
Children participating in a Your Charming Child Table Manners workshop.
Sisters Lisa Butowsky and Donna Bostany teach etiquette to children, from good table manners to fighting off bullies.
Studies have shown that children are more open to etiquette instruction when taught by someone other than a parent, according to Butowsky and Bostany’s website, www.yourcharmingchild.com. At a younger age, children are more receptive to learning and retaining what they have learned. Cont’d on page 6
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COOL CHARM SCHOOL Cont’d from page 5 Both sisters are extremely qualified to teach etiquette to kids. Along with their certification at the International School of Protocol, Butowsky holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Pennsylvania State University; and Bostany holds a BA in Theater from Penn State. Recently, the sisters collaborated on the children’s book SAY NICE THINGS, which teaches empathy and tolerance and touches on the problem of bullying. “The workshops will build your child’s self-esteem throughout his/her life leading to success in school, the workplace, and social settings,” Butowsky says. “Having these tools will encourage your child to be more respectful and helpful at home as well. We strive to make learning fun through demonstrations and role playing and we keep our classes small for more individual attention.” The two-hour workshops are held over three days and divided into Social Skills, Communication Skills and Table Manners. In Social Skills, children learn how to meet new people, make eye contact, interact and avoid rude behaviors like eye-rolling, littering and wasting. “This is a world of interaction and although it’s great to have an iPhone and iPod, there’s nothing that can take the place of eye
Donna Bostany of Union City goes over lesson plans for Your Charming Child contact,” Bostany says. “We are dealing with the technology generation.” Children learn electronic etiquette in the Communication Skills workshop as well as listening/not interrupting, meeting people with disabilities and more. In Table Manners, it’s all about selecting and handling utensils, table behavior and conversation. Bullying which is a controversial social issue is addressed in the Social Etiquette workshop. “A child was sharing how his classmates tease him about his clothes, hair, his laugh – and he’s only in first grade,” Butowsky says. “We gave him some options on how to handle these kids like: ignoring by giving your ‘bored’ face or walking away; showing confidence with posture, facial and body movements; speaking up with several clever
comebacks; and getting support from your parents and teachers. “ Your Charming Child workshops focus children on the importance of social interaction and help them develop self-esteem, Bostany says. “Emily Post said, ‘Etiquette is the science of living. It embraces everything. It is ethics, it is honor’,” says Bostany. “Putting the other person first, considering their feelings gives the child self-respect and the ability to respect others. It’s all about relationships with your parents, your teachers, peers. It’s about how you behave and interact in those relationships. You’re judged by your social decorum. We teach not to judge because people look and act differently, but you are being judged by your social behavior.”
CASA CURRENTLY RECRUITING VOLUNTEERS Interested in helping children in the foster care system? If so, Hudson County CASA is currently recruiting volunteers to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children.
The Historic Downtown Special Improvement District presents the CON VIVO MUSIC SERIES at Mercado Park! This free event features chamber music under the artistic direction of Amelia Ames and Zach Herchen. Weather permitting, the event will take place at Mercado Park located at the Southeast corner of Newark Avenue and Jersey Avenue: July 9 / German Gonzalez Trio (German Gonzales, guitar; Jon di Fiore, drums; Daniel Duke, upright bass)
CASA works through trained community volunteers to insure that needed services and assistance are made available to children while helping to move them toward safe and permanent homes.
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CASA (court appointed special advocate) and its volunteers speak for children in court, serve as fact finders for the judges and safeguard the interests of the children while they are in the foster care system.
If you go: Mon, Tues, Wed, Aug 5 6, 7, 9-11 am Mon: Social Skills; Tues: Communication Skills; Wed: Table Manners The Hoboken Man 1150 Maxwell Lane Hoboken (201) 601-0305 www.yourcharmingchild. com Donna@yourcharmingchild.com Send us your Community listings 2 weeks prior to your event Riverviewobserver @gmail.com or mail to River View Observer Newport Financial Center 123 Town Square Place #321 Jersey City NJ O7310 Hudson County has nearly 700 children in foster care; most have been removed from their homes for abuse or neglect. Please attend an information session to learn more about the program and the role of its volunteers. A session will be held on Tuesday, July 9, 2013
please call (201) 795-9855, from 6:00-7:00pm in Room #400 of the Hudson County Administration Building at 595 Newark Avenue, Jersey City. For further information,
e-mail mgarcia@hudsoncountycasa.org or visit our website at www.hudsoncountycasa.org.
A Shining Star Burns Bright in Jersey’s Heart New Jerseyians – and NewYorkers – Mourn the Death of James Gandolfini
By Riverview Observer staff Superstar James Gandolfini aka Tony Soprano on “The Sopranos” and a true blue Jersey guy passed away June 19th in Italy and those of us here at Riverview Observer feel extremely sad over the loss of this wonderful actor and gentleman. When David Chase and his crew were filming “The Sopranos” they often came to Hudson to set up their cameras and shoot scenes. They used lots of locations in Jersey City and it was known
that Gandolfini always gave out autographs to his fans. It was said that when he got a raise for his work on “The Sopranos” he split his raise among his colleagues. How many people do you know would do something like that? A private viewing for Gandolfini’s family and friends was held in Park Ridge on Wednesday, June 26th and the next day Broadway theaters dimming the lights on their marquees in honor of Gandolfini and his 2009 Tony Award nominated performance in “God of Carnage.” His funeral was held that same Thursday at the Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine in Manhattan. Gandolfini grew up in Park Ridge and graduated from Park Ridge High School in 1979,
where he played basketball, acted in school plays and was awarded the title ‘Class Flirt’ in his senior yearbook, according to his Wiki profile. He earned a BA in Communications from Rutgers University in 1982 where he worked as a bouncer at an on-campus pub. He was introduced to acting when he was living in New York City and went with his friend Roger Bart to an acting class. “The Sopranos” ran from 1999 to 2007 and Gandolfini won three Emmy Awards for Best Actor in a Dramatic Series. Prior to his success as Tony Soprano, Gandolfini appeared in the 1992 Broadway production of “On the Waterfront”. He played a brutal mob enforcer in the 1993 romantic thriller “True Romance” and in “Get Shorty” he played an ex-stuntman. In the 2009 remake of “The Taking of Pelham 123” Gandolfini played the Mayor of New York City.
In all of his roles – even the murderous Tony Soprano – Gandolfini always seemed to wear his heart on his sleeve. In real life, his kindness showed through in his generosity to his fellow actors and his generous spirit to his fellow man. Whether he was acting or just being a regular guy, James Gandolfini’s
heart was as big as his talent – and we, his devoted fans – and fellow New Jerseyians – will miss him dearly. Photo of James Gandolfini by Steve Mack 2007 Asbury Park Film Festival When the late actor was being interviewed by River View Observer’s Evelyn Bonilla
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The Summerstage Pro 2013 production of ‘Legally Blond The Musical ‘Performances June 28 and 29, July 1, 2, 3 5 at 7:00 pm, June 30 and July 7 at 3:00 pm, July 6 at 2:00 and 8:00 pm. Monroe Theatrespace Monroe Center for the Arts 720 Monroe Street, Second Floor Hoboken, NJ Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at http://legallyblondehoboken. brownpapertickets.com/ or at the door until sold out. call 646-339-8485 more info
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HALF COOKED, A Juried Exhibition The hob’art gallery at the Monroe Center for the Arts, 720 Monroe Street, #E208, Hoboken, NJ, proudly announces the opening of the Juried Exhibition, Half Cooked, on June 27, 2013. The show will be on display until July 28, 2013, Thursday to Sunday, 1 to 5pm and by appointment. Curated by Ibou Ndoye, artists were encouraged to submit artworks that they originally put aside because of doubts about their artistic value. As Ndoye stated, “What the artist rejects, the viewing public may appreciate in a new and undiscovered way.” A reception to meet the artists on Saturday, June 29th, is open to the public. The artists thank the Monroe Art Center and the hob’art gallery for their support of this exhibition. The selected artists are
congratulated by hob’art gallery for their artistic inspiration. Olga Guerra’s digital montage and Liz Cohen’s mixed media sculpture display unique uses of these mediums. Miriam Untoria and Roslyn Rose show a mastery of unusual juxtapositions in their intriguing assemblages. Photographers Pauline Chernichaw and Don Sichler chronicle hauntingly beautiful locales. Geraldine Gaines creates large masterful wood carvings. Images that are lyrical, poetic explorations of color were submitted by Meredeth Turshen, Erich Heinemann, Alberte Bernier, Jeannette Centano, and Sylvia Padilla. Gallery information can be obtained on the website www.hob-art.org and from the Director, France Garrido, 201-319-1504 or director@hob-art.org.
Elizabeth Cohen Abo Dolls1 DigitalPrint If You Go June 27 to July 28, 2013 hob’art gallery Monroe Art Center 720 Monroe Street, #E208 Hoboken, NJ 07030 OPENING RECEPTION: June 29, 2013, 6-8pm Open: Thursday to Sunday, 1 to 5pm and by appointment Contact:Liz Cohen, conchart@aol.com,
Pauline Chernichaw Bait For Rodents (201) 424-1275 France Garrido, director@ hob-art.org, (201) 707-6107
The River View Observer We Support the Arts Like us on Facebook @ www.facebook.com/ Riverviewobserver
OlgaGuerra Nest Withdrawal DigitalMontage
Hudson County Community College Foundation to Hold Tenth Annual Golf Outing Fundraiser July 8th event’s proceeds to benefit HCCC students and the College’s growth and development. JERSEY CITY, N.J. / June 19, 2013 — The Hudson County Community College Foundation invites area residents and businesses to participate in its Tenth Annual Golf Outing on Monday, July 8, 2013. The event will be held at Forest Hill Field Club in Bloomfield, NJ. Complete information on the July 8th Golf Outing, including registration and dress code details may be obtained by phoning the College’s Office for Development at 201-360-4006 or emailing Mr. Sansone at jsansone@ hccc.edu. Complete story at www.riverviewobserver.net
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Go-big Upgrades That Can Help a Lingering Home Sell at Last
(BPT) - Everyone knows spring and summer are the best months in which to sell a home. If your house has lingered on the market, you may be eager to find ways to freshen its appeal for potential buyers. Here’s a room-by-room game plan for high-impact upgrades that could make buyers fall in love with your home: Anywhere
Buyers are, universally, looking for beauty and value. Any improvement that gives both can directly impact your ability to sell your home.
Adding a skylight is a great way to enhance a home’s visual appeal, livability and energy efficiency while improving indoor air quality by introducing much needed fresh air into the home. Visit www.veluxusa.com to learn more about adding skylights. Kitchen and bathroom Any Realtor will tell you great kitchens and bathrooms can sell a house. New appliances and fixtures will cost you a few thousand, but can go a long way toward wooing buyers. Living room/family When buyers enter your home, chances are the living room or family room will be one of the first rooms they see. Their impression of that room can set the tone for how they perceive the rest of the house.
Five Home Improvements for the Love of Sunshine and Fresh Air
upgrades like new balusters, lighted post caps, built-in seating and even planters. * Install a kitchen backsplash. Great kitchens sell homes, and the room is one of the most-used in any home.
(BPT) - With spring home improvement season approaching, here are five home improvements that you can do for the love of spring – and the love of your biggest investment: * Opt for an energy saving solar powered fresh-air skylight and you can enjoy the benefits of passive ventilation to reduce humidity and stale air in your home along with more natural light. Installing an Energy Star-qualified skylight like those made by VELUX America can help you control heating, cooling and lighting costs in your home. * If you don’t already have a deck, adding one – whether wood or composite – not only enhances your home value, it will be a great place to celebrate the arrival of spring. If you already have a deck, consider value-enhancing
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Upgrading your kitchen improves resale value and your enjoyment of your home. * Upgrade bathroom floors. Many modern builders install vinyl floors in bathrooms because they are durable and cheap. Switching out this common material for stone or
ceramic tile is a great way to brighten the room. * Improve your entryway. A welcoming entry invites guests in and gives you a mood boost every time you walk through it To learn more about energyefficient skylights, visit www. veluxusa.com or energystar. gov.
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Hollywood Behind-The-Scenes By Alice O’Neill Composer Henry Jackman Gets It Right In This Is The End For the apocalyptic comedy, This Is the End, composer Henry Jackman taps his own roots of classical composition honed in strict British schools from the age of six. Later, at Oxford University, the classicist learned to love electronic music. And he quickly discovered the music industry. Today Jackman composes for major films in all genres and enjoys a well-earned reputation in the industry. This Is The End is a contemporary setting of the apocalypse and how a gang of friends handle the end of their lives. But moviegoers likely will recall Hollywood’s Golden Era as swelling strings and heavenly choirs hail the end of days in this outrageous comedy. The film narrowly missed an NC-17 rating, ending up with a rightly deserved “R” for, and this is right out of the industry rating book, “crude and sexual content throughout,” “brief graphic nudity,” “pervasive language,” “drug use,” and “violence.” That heads up warning will not deter audiences who crave over-the-top horror comedy. If this describes you, go buy a ticket. It’s money well spent. If you have a queasy stomach, bring a puke bag. There’s lots of blood and a decapitated body whose head rolls around the floor, making a mess of the Hollywood mansion which doubles for James Franco’s home. That’s how I remember the scene. Jackman’s score highlights all the action. Cont’d on page 15 Page 14-June 27th-July 9th ,2013 River View Observer
HOLLYWOOD BEHIND THE SCENES Cont’d from page 14 Composer Henry Jackman Gets It Right In This Is The End Loud noises from exotic instruments meld perfectly with horrific visuals. I don’t recall how long the gory scene goes on,
but it’s unforgettable. I remember lots of red—fire, blood, and the glaring eyes of a monster dragon. There are plenty more
to shock, amaze, and disgust. Evan Goldberg and Seth Rogen co-wrote and co-directed. In an early scene at LAX as Rogen and Jay Baruchel head to their car, a bystander yells, “Hey, Seth Rogen, what up, man?” The stage is instantly set, you realize. “Okay. They’re playing themselves in a weird reality show.” Other recognizable stars playing themselves: Jonah Hill, Craig Robinson, James Franco, and Danny McBride. If you grew up watching HBO’s Entourage, you’re properly grounded for the party at James Franco’s Los Angeles mansion. It’s over-thetop in every conceivable way. And then it tops itself with a giant earthquake that splits the house, causes a sinkhole and unleashes monsters from Hell. No explanation is given so viewers can determine for themselves what it means. But before all hell broke loose I laughed out loud a few times, at the usual male riffs on oral sex, jackoffs, and pissing feats. Despite supernatural monsters breathing fire and a long parody of The Exorcist, the film’s core, from beginning to end, is the value of genuine feelings of friendship and helping others. That’s a theme young males can identify with and embrace. Nothing new but it’s still good to see some positive
philosophy in a summer flick. Composer Jackman does not use his music as a character. Neither does he use it to denigrate the action viewers see onscreen. This classically trained musician/composer plays it straight. You will believe in the Rapture. Jackman’s music makes it so. The lone female, Emma Watson (Hermione in the Harry Potter films) is a feisty fighter, who bursts out of a bedroom wielding an ax after overhearing the guys discuss, in an inane way, who would probably rape her. Now, if ever there was an act that is not fit for comedy, it’s rape. But the scene of the guys musing is funny but only as they dismiss the idea. But it points up the ridiculous way their minds work. Emma has heard enough. She fights and exits the mansion with determination, all set to Jackman’s perfect sounds. Cheers went up in the theatre for this diminutive Supergirl. These are actors, we’re reminded, and they’re not in a movie but in the home setting of one of the guys, and their dialogue is made up on the spot, not the well-crafted thoughts of a well-paid screenwriter. Hold on. Except, the lines we laugh at are actually the well-crafted lines of Seth Rogen as he explores the inner workings of the gang. That’s the genius of Rogen and Goldberg as they work
their movie magic. Of special interest is Michael Cera, who plays the heavy and gets his just reward. This character is evil personified. There literally is no redeeming quality in him. The religious heavy handedness is played for laughs. My favorite scene has Jay Baruchel, stoned, reading from Revelations about how the world will end. Suddenly, the truth hits as he sees a picture of Satan. “I know that dude,” he cries. “He’s from Where The Wild Things Are!” When the guys go to Heaven it’s a trip tailor made for the characters we’ve come to know. Jackman’s symphonic music accompanies them skyward in goose-bumpy, transporting rapture scenes. The Apocalypse is played straight-- a disaster that forces the guys to come to terms with their impending, demise. More comedy for those in the know: Michael Cera’s chained sex slave is a shaved-head Channing Tatum, Hollywood’s latest authentic movie star, a bona fide actor who currently headlines the action thriller White House Down. He also graces the July 2013 cover of Vanity Fair. From the opening scenes at LAX – “Hey, Seth Rogen, what up?”--to the final scenes of dope-heavy Heaven, this outlandish comedy satisfies every lowbrow fan. --- Alice O’Neill
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BUSINESS VIEWS Topnotch Training in the Tri-State Area Manhattan Based JNL Gym Owner, Jessica Botte, brings her brand of Fitness to New Jersey. By River View Observer Staff Writer Jessica Botte is the typical Type A New Yorker - Tough, smart and aggressive. That firry personality is highlighted when you watch her train clients. We had the opportunity to witness her in action- now that she has branched out into training clients in New Jersey. Jessica has teamed up with Lori Michaels, co-owner of The ViiBE Dance Center in Cliffside Park. Lori and her staff were already familiar with the training style Jessica implements at her New York City Gym - The JNL Fusion Method. Her mentor, internationally recognized fitness celebrity, Jennifer Nicole Lee developed this strategic combination of strength training and cardio intervals for her best selling DVD series. Now, people can experience the workout live and in person with Jessica. So, who is Jennifer Nicole Lee and what is her Fusion Method all about? JNL is an international fitness guru, spokesmodel, entrepreneur, lifestyle coach and weight loss success story. Through diet and exercise she transformed herself from an overweight, unhappy person to the 2004 Miss Bikini Miss International winner. Along the way, she developed her Fusion Method. Her inspirational journey was featured on countless media outlets including The Oprah Show. Most recently, she was was on E! Entertainment demonstrating the Fusion Method on the beach in Miami. JNL has graced the cover of a record 56 magazines. Her Fusion Method DVDs have sold tens of thousands of copies since released, with that number skyrocketing after appearing on QVC this year.
Jennifer also made her big screen debut in Pain & Gain with The Rock and Mark Wahlberg. Jessica met JNL last year at a fitness conference in Miami. They bonded over their desire to empower others and share their passion for heathy living. Like JNL, Jessica is a long time fitness enthusiast and ex yo-yo dieter who has finally found long lasting results with the Fusion Method. JNL boasts that her protege is able to connect with her clients on a deep emotional level due to her own personal struggle with weight loss. “Fitness is my life, my passion and the reason I get up in the morning,” says Jessica, the JNL Gym NYC owner. “I’ve seen both lifestyles from the inside out. I was overweight and unhappy, but not anymore. If I can commit to changing my life, than anyone can- with the right support and guidance.” She notes that this is what will separate the JNL Gym NYC from any other studio in Manhattan. Jessica’s mission is to connect to every single client she has on a personal level. She calls them her “Fusion Family” and is able to be involved in everyone’s lives. “I give every client my cell number and email. I tell them to call me as their about to scarf down that hunk of chocolate cake. I want to be more than a trainer - I want to be more like a weightloss sponsor.” Not only is Jessica fixated on changing the minds and bodies of her students, she’s also on her own personal journey to the competition stage. Now thats she had conquered living a fit lifestyle, she’s striving to take her body to the next level. She is currently training to compete in an NPC Women’s Figure Bodybuilding
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Competition. Jessica is operating the JNL Fusion Gym out of Phyt NYC located in the heart of midtown Manhattan on the corner of 57th and Lexington Avenue. This private training facility is like no other in the city. They offer a wide variety of training styles outside of Jessica’s Fusion Gym, including Boxing, MMA, Kickboxing, Brazilian Jujitsu and Conditioning. Amazingly, Jess explains that the program can be adjusted to any fitness level and customized for each individual client. Jessica, along with the team at Phyt can undoubtedly help anyone reach their goals. As we mentioned, Jessica’s second home is The ViiBE Dance Center. Jessica told us, “Teaming up with Lori Michaels was a no brainier for me! They stand for the same ideals that I do - empowerment, personal growth, charity and paying it forward. I use fitness, they use song and dance; now together we can use both.” The ViiBE holds dance classes for children, teens and adults, but it’s really so much more than just a dance studio. Their Reach Out & ViiBE program gives back to the community through music & dance. Most recently, they attended North Bergen D.A.R.E. Day to perform-just one of the many examples of the work they do. The ViiBE currently has a fitness program consisting mostly of dancelike classes. The JNL Fusion Program will allow for dancers and non-dancers alike to get to work at The ViiBE. For more information on setting up a Private Session or attending a Small Group Fitness Class at either location, please contact Jessica Botte directly at 212- 308-4565 or via email at jess@jnlgymnyc.com.
The JNL Gym at Phyt NYC is located at 139 East 57th Street at Lexington, NYC www. JNLgymNYC.com
The ViiBE Dance Center is located at 458 Palisade Ave Cliffside Park, NJ www.theviibe.com
restaurant VIEWS Abundantly Terrific Abbondanza Trattoria & Brick Oven Pizza, a Charming Italian Eatery
Beats the Odds By Sally Deering Abbondanza means ‘abundance’ in Italian and along with serving abundant portions Abbondanza Trattoria & Brick Oven Pizza on Grand Street in Jersey City offers an abundantly charming place to dine and has an abundance of staying power that helped it survive an earthquake, Hurricane Irene and Superstorm Sandy. Owners Deborah and Salvatore Mazzarese opened Abbondanza Trattoria & Brick Oven Pizza in August 2011, the day of the earthquake. “The other side of the building shook and I thought oh my God we’re having an earthquake,” Deborah Mazzarese says, taking a break from answering the busy reservations line. “We couldn’t use the phones and everybody was running out of the buildings. But we opened for service and it was a good night until two weeks later when Hurricane Irene hit. We got 18 inches of rain and flooded.
We closed for two weeks.” When Superstorm Sandy hit Oct. 29, 2012, Abbondanza closed for seven weeks with crews working around the clock to fix the damage it caused. “The water came up 6 feet,” Mazzarese says. “It picked up everything and tossed it. There was a foot of mud and soot. It was unbelievable. Everything’s been replaced. Our neighbors and regulars were so kind. So many people came and said we’ll help you with anything you need.” You would never suspect Abbondanza flooded twice. The beautiful dining room is expansive, the floors tiled and the walls are painted a warm gold. The tables are dressed in blue and white linens and there are two rooms to choose from, the larger dining room and a smaller, cozier nook. The restaurant seats 150 comfortably and that includes the tables outside. The Mazzareses, who have been married 35 years
Deborah Mazzarese stands by family photos at her Jersey City restaurant
and have two grown children Anthony and Salina, also own Milano’s Deli on Montgomery Street. When they decided to Abbondanza Trattoria & Brick Oven Pizza it took three years to build the restaurant. They chose the name from a comment Deborah’s ItalianAmerican father Andrew Aspromonte made: “He would say “this country has abbondanza’,” she says. That can also be said of the restaurant’s menu. “All of Italy is represented on the menu,” Mazzarese says. Customers have lots to choose from: Antipasti dishes include Baked Clams Oreganata; Zuppa di Cont’d on page 18
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restaurant VIEWS Abbondanza Trattoria -Con’t from page 17 Mussels, Cold Antipasto, Prosciutto e Melone; Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail; Calamari Fritti and Stuffed Portobello Mushroom. Salads feature the Cold Seafood Salad; Caprese Salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, roasted peppers and basil; and the Abbondanza Salad of spring mixed greens, tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, garbanzo beans and crumbled gorgonzola cheese. For soup-lovers, there’s the traditional Pasta e Fagioli; and Homemade Chicken Soup. Pastas are cooked to order and include Linguini with Clams; Homemade Gnocchi Sorrentina; Rigatoni alla Matrigiana; Penne alla Vodka; Orecchiette Broccoli Rabe & Sausage; Meat Lasagna; and Risotto with Porcini Mushrooms. Chicken (pollo) dishes feature Pollo Marsala; Pollo Parmigiana; Pollo Saltimbocca; Pollo Piccata and Pollo Abbondanza which is chicken on the bone, sausage, roasted peppers, onions, roasted garlic, broccoli and potatoes.
Entrees include the Veal Chop; Eggplant Parmigiana; Rib Eye Steak; Eggplant Rollatini; Pork Chops; and seafood dishes like Broiled Snapper; Shrimp Parmigiana, Broiled Salmon and Zuppa di Pesce with shrimp, calamari, lobster, mussels and clams. “We have brick oven pizza, too,” Mazzarese says. “Our pizza-maker is from Naples. He makes thin crust, thick crust, you name it he’ll do it.” The brick oven pizzas are created by Chef Gaetano DeSomma who makes them in two sizes, 10” and 16” , and in lots of variations, including: Margherita Pizza, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes and basil; Pizza alla Abbondanza, which is broccoli rabe, sausage, fresh mozzarella and sun-dried tomatoes; the 4 Stagione Pizza, which has fresh mozzarella, artichokes, mushrooms, ham, olives and basil; and Pizza Alle Verdure served with fresh mozzarella, grilled vegetables and sundried tomatoes. Chef DeSomma also
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makes outstanding desserts like the Cannoli Calzone topped with fresh strawberries, powdered sugar and cinnamon; Nutella pizza, a thin crust covered in chocolate hazelnut spread topped with powdered sugar; and the Cannoli pizza, a 10-inch thin crust covered in cannoli cream and topped with fresh strawberries and powdered sugar. Abbondanza Trattoria & Brick Oven Pizza is a BYOB establishment – customers bring their own beer and wine – no hard liquor please. There’s free parking which is ideal for the many parties they cater for engagements, christenings and anniversaries. Abbondanza is a family affair, which is evident by the wonderful black-and-white pictures of family on the walls. Some depict Sal Mazzarese, who is originally from Sicily, and some go further back in time with happy family members sitting down to a meal. “We talk food all the time,” Mazzarese says. “We’ll have dinner and plan what we’ll eat tomorrow.
If you go: Abbondanza Trattoria & Brick Oven Pizza 257-259 Grand St. Jersey City (201) 516-0900 www.abbondanzajc.com Hours: Tues-Sun
The River View Observer Your Source for Fine and Casual Dining in Hudson County To place your ad on this page call 201.349.4336 and ask for Joe
STARGAZINE Aries March 21 - April 19 The energy of June is scattered with many a quick turn of events. The planet Uranus in its true Wheel of Fortune mode is the culprit. The astral advice suggests that a calm head and patient attitude will protect you from the whirling changes to come. Remember that Aries rules the head and at this time nothing is as it seems. Hold on its going to be a bumpy ride! Taurus -April 20 - May 20
June2013 J Banta Lewis Astralcomunications@aol.com
Leo-July 23 - August 22 Your ego is your best defense but at times may be your worst enemy. You have needed some help yet you have been treating everyone as commoners while you play the part of the king or queen. Step down from your throne! Saying thank you and being grateful makes you stronger and insures that help and support will continue to flow in your direction. The bad obnoxious king is dead; long live the kind and sincere king!
SagittariusNovember 22 - December 21 It is well known that although the Sag native requires relationships like the other signs they do not define their existence by their partnerships. And yes, many can live unattached and happy with their own company. In the month of June however the arrow of love may hit and change the life direction of many. Walk carefully and enjoy this uncharactistic feeling.
Virgo-August 23-Sep-
You may feel that you have lost an important person in your life but under further objective examination you will realize that the break is better for everyone. Taurus, at times may hold on to people like the jaws of a pit-bull and not unlike the dog breed you have gotten a sullied reputation. Embrace the future and allow new and positive relationships to develop.
Gemini May 21 - June 20 An abundance of activity in the 10th house governing status and honor indicate great opportunities. Venus, Jupiter, Mars and the Sun together harmonizing their power and combined intention enable you to achieve your heart’s desire. Accept the fact that all your dreams may come true. Add to the astrological force a constructive mental attitude and you are a winner!
If you are not happy in your chosen profession it is time for a constructive leap of faith. Education online in the evenings and direct meetings with those in your new chosen field will lessen the anxiety and lack of direction experienced now. Go forth with confidence. When you are in a happy work environment the rest of the puzzle fills in nicely!
Libra – September 23 - October 22
Aquarius-
There is a happy center point in relationships as the symbol for Libra is a rising Sun in the center of a horizon and secondly the scales. This month however your scales have tipped to the dark side. You are telling everyone what comes to mind without using a filter. The astral advice suggests that you stand firm in your decisions but don’t oft the heads of those with whom you disagree! Remember dear, that balance is the key!
Scorpio Cancer June 21-July 22nd Many a Cancer native will be feeling a little out of sorts with friend and family relationships in the month of June. Astrologically Saturn in your sister water sign Scorpio may be showering a little woe in your direction. Anyway Cancer does tend to be an emotionally overdone sign in general. Looking at the sunny side of any situation is a discipline like exercising, so get emotionally fit in June.
Capricorn -
tember 22 In relationships there is a tendency for the Virgo native to jump and demand clarification as to where everything is headed. In business or romance this is not advised. It is far better to observe and allow the energy to unfold in its own time. Pushing for answers may be like putting ice water on the potentially hot flames of love or loyalty.
October 23rd -November 21st If everyone immediately got exactly what they thought they wanted the world would be in chaos, especially when we are in a constant flux of change. The Scorpio desire nature is a force to be reckoned with but Saturn in your sign you must wait in order to get your heart’s desire. The good news is that the wait is worth it and you will be exceedingly rewarded for your patience.
•Astrology • Tarot •
December 22 - January 19
January 20 - February 18 Happiness has returned and it seems you are on a safe and steady course, with children and those you love. You have trusted in the universe and have been delivered your heart’s desire. Although the future is bright there will always be little problems to overcome. The astral advice suggests all challenges are easily surmountable.
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PiscesFebruary 19 - March 20 The symbol of Pisces is the fish swimming both ways indicating a mutable personality. You are many times not unlike an emotional roller coast going strongly in one direction only to change midstream and go in the opposite. The astral advice suggests that you stay the course in all decisions recently made. Stay on track and things will improve. Going back may be a disaster. Go forth with confidence!
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Page19- June 6th-June 18th, 2013 River View Observer
Co-op for Sale/Weehawken/$149,999 This charming apartment is a NYC commuter’s dream.
Charming one-bedroom apartment on Boulevard East in
Weehawken is on the 4th floor of the beautiful River Cliff Hall, a restored pre-war building on Boulevard East that faces the spectacular Manhattan Skyline. This private and quiet one-bedroom overlooks a quaint courtyard adorned with plants and flowers of the season. It has a nice-sized working kitchen that's open to the living/dining area. There's a French door to the bedroom which has a raised floor and fits a king size bed and has a wall of closets. There’s a laundry room on site. NYC commute is 15 minutes by bus which stops right in front of the building.
$149,999.
For more info, call Mary Waldron, 201-232-6959.
Page 20-June 9th-June 27th, 2013 River View Observer
CELL TO GO
497 West Side Avenue, Jersey City, New Jersey 07034
201-333-3001
Page 21-June 27th-July 9th, 2013 River View Observer
Brokers and Real Estate Agents To advertise on this page call 201-349-4336 Page 22 -June 27th-July 9th, 2013 River View Observer
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Office:201-576-0700 Cell: 201-759-3821 mikec@allamericanmortgage.us www.MortgageHow.com Page 23-June 27th -July 9th , 2013River View Observer