River View Observer November 21st to December 6th, 2011

Volume 15, No. 11

November 21st - December 6th 2011 FREE PUBLICATION

riverviewobserver.net

201-349-4336

Pg. 2 On the Cover

‘Tis the Season for Theater, Music, Dance and other Holiday Happenings!

By Sally Deering Photos of BHS Drama Society’s Miracle on 34th Rehearsal

by Steveamack.com

Then...

Pg. 4 Hudson Again

Pg. 13

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Pg. 20

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Pgs. 22 - 23 & 26 - 28

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efore 2011 takes its final curtain call on New Year’s Eve, we can look forward to a bustling holiday season dressed with all the trimmings. Sure, there’s shopping, cooking and family get-togethers that demand our time, but there’s no better way to give your holiday spirit an energy boost than by seeing a play or a dance or even belting out a few bars of “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” at a tree-trimming sing-along.

And yeah, New York City is definitely a hot spot for the holidays with its high-kicking Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, Macy’s Santaland, and Lord & Taylor’s Fifth Avenue storefront windows with dioramas that

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tell the history of Christmas. But New York doesn’t have it all! Here in Hudson there are wonderful events taking place that connect us as a community and remind us that even though the economy is tough and we seem to be working harder for the same buck – it’s still a wonderful life.

CLARENCE GETS HIS WINGS Mile Square Theater (720 Monroe Street) in Hoboken presents “It’s a Wonderful Life, A Live Radio Play,” inspired by the 1946 classic film starring Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey, who gave up his dreams of being a world traveler to save his hometown. The show is performed as a 1940s live radio broadcast in front of a studio audience. Five actors play multiple characters and do all the sound effects. con’t pg. 2

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Thurs, Fri, Sat at 8 p.m.; Sat and Sun matinees at 3 p.m.

Tickets $25; students/seniors $15. For more info, 201-6837014 or visit their website at www.milesquaretheatre.org.

YES VIRGINIA, THERE IS A SANTA CLAUS

In the 1947 Christmas film, “Miracle on 34th Street” Edmund Gwenn won an Oscar for his portrayal of the real Santa Claus. And now, local folks can see the musical based on the film when the Bayonne High School Drama Society presents “Miracle on 34th Street, the Musical,” on Fri and Sat, Nov. 25, 26 and Dec. 2 and 3 at 7 p.m.; and Sun, Nov. 27 and Dec. 4 at 2 p.m. The show takes place at Bayonne High School (669 Avenue “A”). Tickets: $12 adults; $10 students/seniors. For ticket info: www.bhsdramasociety. com or call the Bayonne High School Drama Society Box

..

By Sally Deering

Office at 201-858-0071. And on opening night Fri, Nov 25 at 6 p.m., join the Bayonne Drama Society for a Tree Lighting Celebration. The Bayonne Community Youth Chorus will carol around the tree and guests can enjoy a cup of hot chocolate, and have a picture taken with Santa on the Bayonne High School lawn.

JINGLE BELL HOP

Experience a live, multi-cultural holiday dance performance when the Kennedy Dancers present a Holiday Dance Concert at St. Joseph’s School for the Blind (76 Summit Ave. Jersey City) on Sat and Sun, Dec. 9 and 10 at 7:30 p.m. The program will feature dances that celebrate the holidays of many cultures, and the dancers will also perform excerpts from The Nutcracker. Tickets are $20 for adults/seniors; $15 for children 12 and under. For more info call 201-659-2190 or visit www.kennedydancers.org.

WINTER WONDERLAND WEEKEND

Jersey City’s Greenville section will become a Winter Wonderland Weekend from Fri-Sun, Dec. 2, 3 and 4 when Project Greenville hosts a community event featuring a display of local residents’ photos, paintings, drawings, collages, sculptures and/or models depicting Jersey City holidays past. Jersey Cityians are invited to submit an old photo of the kids making a snowman, a painting of the Loew’s Jersey City decked out for Santa’s visit, a sketch of busy shoppers bustling along Jersey City’s snowy streets – think winter, think holidays, think Jersey City! Along with the exhibited artwork there will also be a children’s toy drive, a neighborhood raffle and hot cocoa and local treats. Residents interested in participating should contact Elizabeth Deegan at projectgreenville@gmail.com, or call 646-361-1858.

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LACE UP YOUR SKATES AND HIT THE ICE

Ice skating is a fun holiday tradition, something the whole family can do together. It’s also a great thing to do on a date – holding hands as you spin around the rink, sharing giggles after an slippery tumble, cups of cocoa sipped together to warm that wintery chill. We don’t have to head over to Rockefeller Center for a twirl on the ice when Newport Skates (95 River Drive) in Jersey City opens for the season on Wed, Nov. 30, with a free skating session from 6:30 -8:30 p.m. Regular skating hours are Mon-Fri, 4-9 p.m.; Sat, 10 a.m.- 9 p.m.; Sun, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Admission is $6 on weekdays and $7 on weekends; skate rental is $6 at all times. For more info, call 201-626-RINK or visit www.newportskates.com.

BEOWULF AT NEW JERSEY CITY UNIVERSITY

At New Jersey City University’s Ingalls Recital Hall (2039 Kennedy Boulevard) on Wed, Nov. 30 at 12 noon, “Beowulf Consort: Music Inspired by Myth and Legends from Around the World” will be performed by some great musicians including contralto Hanne Ladefoged-Dollase; violist Frank Foerster; harpist José Luis Rodriguez and cellist Lawrence Zoernig. Admission is free; for more info, www.njcu.edu.

HOLIDAY BAZAAR, TREE LIGHTING AND SANTA

Mayor Michael Gonnelli and the Secaucus Town Council welcome the 2011 Holiday Season on Sat, Dec. 3, with a day filled with family activities. A Holiday Bazaar kicks off the events at 12 noon with trinkets and goodies on display at the Plaza Center in the heart of town. con’t pg. 3

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From 5:30-7 p.m., there will be music and at 7 p.m., the Christmas Parade begins at the north end of Paterson Plank Road. The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony follows the arrival of Santa Claus. This day of jolly events also includes sleigh rides, face-painting for the kids, crafts and snacks. Rain date: Sun, Dec. 4. For more info, call Town Hall at 201-330-2000.

NOT YO MAMA’S HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR

The Hamilton Park Neighborhood Association (HPNA) will host “Not Yo Mama’s Holiday Craft Fair,” a weekend of holiday happenings to benefit Art House Productions, a non-profit artists’ consortium in Jersey City. Beginning Fri, Dec. 2 from 6-10 p.m. and continuing Sat, Dec. 3 from 11 a.m.- 6 p.m., more than 50 vendors selling fabulous food and delicious drinks will take up two floors of 1 McWilliams Place in Jersey City and on both days, there will be free goodie bags given away to the first 150 shoppers. Friday will have DJ’s spinning tunes and fabulous shopper opportunities. Saturday continues with Holiday How-To’s from M Avery Designs with free Sewing and OrnamentMaking Lessons; Hungry Bunny Supper Club’s “All Things Lemon” Lessons; and With Love from the Cupboard’s D-I-Y sugar flower demos. There will be outdoor entertainment on Hamilton Square with performances by Next Step Broadway and Art House Productions.

Indoors (both days) the Hamilton Inn will serve beer and wine and Made with Love will be offering their award-winning vegetarian chili.

At 5 p.m. Saturday, it all culminates with HPNA’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and a performance by the McNair High School Choir.

For more info, visit www.hpnajc.com.

NEWPORT LIGHTS UP

Jersey City Mayor Jerramiah T. Healy will officially inaugurate Jersey City’s holiday season on Wed, Nov. 30 at 5 p.m. by lighting the tree in Newport Town Square. (100 Town

Square,) Jersey City. Santa Claus and his elves will be there along with jugglers and other entertainment. For more info, visit www.cityofjerseycity.com.

WINTER CONCERTS AT STEVEN’S INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

DeBaun Center’s Music Series will hold several holiday concerts to kick off the holiday season.

The Steven’s Orchestra winter concert will be on Sat, Dec 3 at 8 p.m.; the Steven’s Jazz Band winter concert will be Wed, Dec. 7 at 7 p.m., and the Steven’s Concert performs Fri, Dec. 9 at 8 p,m. All concerts will be held at the DeBaun Auditorium (Edward A. Stevens Hall, 24 Fifth Street on the campus of Steven’s Institute of Technology of Hoboken. Tickets are $7. For more info visit www.debaun.org/tickets.

For more Holiday Happenings visit www.riverviewobserver.net throughout the Holiday Season.

Visit Us On The Web at

www.riverviewobserver.com

MUSICAL FEAST DAY AFTER THANKSGIVING

The soulful sounds of the 70s will fill the auditorium of the Jersey City Free Public Library’s Miller Branch (489 Bergen Ave.) on Fri, Nov 25, from 8-10:30 p.m. when locals Soul Generation, PRIME, Joe Bataan and Tru Sol give a concert. It will be a real treat to hear Soul Generation, featuring Cliff Perkins, known worldwide for their platinum sellers, “Body & Soul: and “If I Had a Million Dollars” and PRIME, known for its intricate harmonies. Combine that sound rush with the King of Latin Soul, Joe Bataan, who has wowed the library crowd for the past four years, and the Tru Sol Band from Myrtle Beach, SC, a cover band with a soul twist, playing Motown favorites and mixing it up with today’s Hip Hop and R&B, and you’ve got yourself some concert! Admission is free; however concert-goers must present a valid Jersey City Free Public Library card, or they can sign up for a library card at the door.

This is an adults only event; no one under 21. For more info, visit www. jclibrary.org or call 201-547-4500.

HOBOKEN CRAFTS FAIR, TREE AND MENORAH LIGHTING AND MUSIC AT MAXWELL’S On Sat and Sun, Dec 3 and 4 at the Multi Service Center (126 Grand Street) in Hoboken, there’ll be a Holiday Craft

Fair from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., featuring an eclectic mix of art and beautiful handcrafted gift items. On Tues, Dec. 5 at 5:30 p.m. in front of City Hall (94 Washington St.) the Holiday Tree Lighting takes place with performances by local school children and appearances by Elvis the Elf and, of course, Santa Claus. For more info, visit www.hobokennj.org. On Sun, Dec 18, there will be a Holiday Banding Concert at 6 p.m. at Maxwell’s (1039 Washington St.) in Hoboken. Classic Holiday songs will be performed by popular local musicians including: Hello Radio, Dave Calamoneri, Jack Skuller, Jennifer Lampert, Abbe Rivers and Chris Butler with members of The Gefkens & Skanatra and more. Admission is $10. For more info, visit www.maxwellsnj. com. On Sun, Dec 25, Hoboken hosts a Menorah Lighting Event at City Hall (94 Washington St.) that includes a Children’s Chanukah Party from 4-5 p.m. and the Annual Grand Menorah Lighting in front of City Hall at 5 p.m. (For more info: 201-3865222 or online at www.jewishhoboken.com.)

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Hudson Then...Again

By Maureen Wlodarczyk

One recent Sunday afternoon as I stood leaning against a wall near the information desk in the bustling NJ Transit concourse at New York Penn Station waiting for a train home, an anxious traveler asked the attendant: “Will all these people fit on the train?”

That query caused me to involuntarily look up and, scanning the room, I noticed all the people decked out in Jets and Patriots football jerseys carrying everything from blankets to soft-side coolers filled with beer, headed for the stadium to join 70,000 fellow fans.

Open air venues offering excitement and all things entertaining are nothing new.

Remember that old coliseum in Rome known for gladiator combat and wild animal hunts?

Fun times for the spectators . . . not so much for the participants. In the 1890s, Hudson County had its own resplendent entertainment complex, Weehawken’s Eldorado Park, boasting amphitheatre, hotel, casino hosting indoor entertainment and dancing, restaurant, bandstand, castle, and 30 acres of magnificent grounds.

The amphitheatre seated 7,000, had a canvas roof that could be put up on rainy days and its enormous stage, over 300 feet long and 150 feet deep, accommodated a thousand performers at once. Perched atop the Palisades, with the entrance on Boulevard East in Weehawken, Eldorado Park offered visitors a panoramic view of the Hudson. It was not uncommon for over 15,000 to visit the Park on any given day. To get them there, an elevated railway was built at the ferry station located below at the Hudson River’s edge. Access to the elevated railway was via huge passenger elevators constructed to transport visitors up from the ferry house. Cost of all this? A half-million dollars or more.

So, what was drawing those 15,000 visitors and filling the amphitheatre’s thousands of

Weehawken’s Eldorado Park

seats? To describe the shows and performances as jaw-dropping spectacles is no overstatement or hyperbole.

Bolossy Kiralfy, a famous international impresario of the day, produced the first glittering, epic amphitheatre show, “King Solomon, or the Destruction of Jerusalem”

Visit us on the web @ www.riverviewobserver.net Page 4 River View Observer

complete with horse-drawn chariots, hundreds of ballet dancers, a trapeze artist diving off a tower 80 feet high into a net below, the Ali Baba troupe of acrobats and an evening that concluded with a spectacular fireworks display. Kiralfy’s extravaganza was not without real-life drama on occasion.

One evening when Mr. James Mahoney, in his role as a charioteer, was driving a team of horses, a hissing calcium light spooked them and they bolted, pulling the chariot into a group of ballet dancers, knocking them down, leaving one girl with several broken ribs.

In August, 1893, the New York Herald reported a mishap under the headline “A Balloon’s Mad Pranks.” Eldorado Park often had hot air balloon entertainment with performers parachuting out after the balloon ascended heavenward.

On that August evening, “aeronaut” Professor Le Strange ascended in his balloon, made his “daring leap from the

clouds” and landed gracefully in the Hudson as winds had carried him over water.

He was picked up by men in rowboats who anticipated where he would touch down.

His balloon floated on in the prevailing breezes, heading straight for Manhattan’s Tenderloin district. As it crossed over Manhattan, thousands on the sidewalks spotted it “belching forth a great volume of smoke.” It passed over Broadway near 31st Street and was soon pursued by police from the 35th Street Station and over a 1,000 men and boys intent on bringing it down.

The interstate journey ended when the balloon careened into the skylight of a hospital, smashing the glass but without any injuries to anyone inside. The police rolled up the wayward balloon, measuring about 45 feet high and 100 feet in circumference, and took it by wagon to their station house where a representative of the Eldorado Company came to reclaim it.

Despite its grandeur, spectacle and diversity of entertainment, attendance over

Cont’d on page 8

Ribbon Cutting for the new Johnny Rockets at the Newport Mall, Jersey City Thursday November 10th -Photo (L to R) Alex Sabatino; Mall Mngr.-Denise Ipsen, Jersey City Council President-Peter Brennan, Franchise owner Al Tafro, Acting Jersey City Mayor Armando Roman, Chairman Norm Chirte, Franchise owner Bill White, Franchise owner partner Sal Divino, Server Janea Brown, Lorenzo Richardson

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honors its memory and place in local history.

Hudson Then...Again

Cont’d from page 4 did not adequately cover the costs of operating the Eldorado. Ownership changed hands more than once and, in November, 1898, the casino was consumed by a catastrophic fire, brilliant flames lighting up the sky over the Hudson, not unlike the fireworks displays there years before.

Today, Eldorado Park is Eldorado Place, a tree-lined street of beautiful houses and home to Weehawken High School.

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The 1893 Casino at Elodrad Park, Weehawken While nothing is left from its days as an amusement park, a plaque erected by the Town Fathers on Boulevard

Maureen Wlodarczyk is a fourth-generation-born Jersey City girl and the author of two books about life in Jersey City in the 1800s and early 1900s: Past-Forward: A ThreeDecade and Three-ThousandMile Journey Home and Young & Wicked: The Death of a Wayward Girl and has just announced that the third book in her Jersey City trilogy, Canary in a Cage, will be available in a subscription series beginning in January, 2012. Find out more and subscribe at: www.canaryinacage.com

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY NOVEMBER 26TH

Local Businesses Throughout Hudson County Participating November 26th, the day after Black Friday, is the Second Annual Small Business Saturday®. It’s a day to Shop Small and celebrate the small businesses that fuel our economy and invigorate communities.

Many local business of all types throughout Hudson County and around the country will be participating with special offers and sales to help the community save money this holiday season.

Participating businesses will display the Shop Small logo and according to the 2011 Small Business Saturday Consumer Spend Survey, 89 million people said they plan to Shop Small on Small Business Saturday.

Organized by American Express who wants to help small business owners turn Small Business Saturday into what could be their biggest sales day of the year by providing free tools and social media help to make the day a success.

Business looking to participate visit:

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Happenings Around Hudson County

North Bergen Temple Beth El of North Bergen invites you to the 2nd Night of Chanukah Family Party at 300 75th and Hudson Streets, North Beren. Fun for the whole family- games, “secret” shopping and gift wrapping for kids; Chinese Auction for adults; live Chanukah music; menorah lighting; latkes, gelt and dreidel games and more!! Make this a family tradition with Temple Beth El community. Parking available.

Call if you are driving to arrange for parking:and other information Rabbi Ilan Glazer: 201-869-9149.

Adults $15 and children FREE!! ................................................................................................

Jersey City-“Hands Across the City: A Month with Saint Peter’s College”. Saint Peter’s College is supporting

Sacred Heart School with this month-long project to build some awareness about the school and expand the activities available to the students and children in the community.

November 28 - Haitian Student Association will host a Haitian cultural party, providing various traditional foods other traditions.

November 29 - Bowling night with the Women’s bowling team at Hudson Lanes.

Pet Views

Adoptions from The Hudson County Animal League

To Adopt Any of the Animals Featured Here...

Please call 201-200-1008

Nickey and Jack are two snuggly brothers who found love and then tragically lost it. They were adopted from HCAL in 2008 at age 15 months and had three wonderful years with their human mom. But in Spring 2011, Mom became very ill and could no longer keep Nickey and Jack, so they came back to us. They’re ready to find a new person to love. Born in July 2007, they are just the sweetest boys to their foster mom. They’ll sit with you, they’ll sleep with you; Nickey will even sleep right on your chest. Nickey is white with gray spots and Jack is white with black spots.

We’re just wild about Harry! This sweet, handsome little guy loves to be held -- he gives hugs an d kisses in reurn. Dumped on the street as a 2-monthold kitten, he was scared at first, but Harry’s lovable personality prevailed.

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2011 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

The 85th Annual Macy’s Day Thanksgiving Day Parade will take place on Thursday , November 24th at 9am. And it continues to be the official kick-off of the holiday season. Every year, the Parade is seen by more than 3 million people, who line the streets of New York or another 50 million people who tune into NBC to watch the giant balloons, one-of-a-kind floats, the nation’s best marching bands, hundreds of cheering clowns and a host of Celebrities!

The first-ever Macy’s Day Parade actually took

place on Christmas of 1924.

Macy’s employees dressed as clowns, cowboys, and other fun costumes, and traveled with Central Park zoo animals and creative floats. Its route, a lengthy six miles from Herald Square to Harlem in Manhattan.

In 1927, Felix the Cat became the first giant balloon to ever take part in the Macy’s Day Parade.

If you go...

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Public Viewing Areas are: •Central Park West: West side of street from 70th Street to Columbus Circle & east side of street from 70th to 65th •Columbus Circle: West side of street

•7th Avenue: between 58th & 42nd Streets •42nd Street: from 7th to 6th Avenues •6th Avenue: between 42nd & 34th Streets •34th Street: south side of street between Broadway & 7th Avenue.

Get there early!

Many parade watchers arrive as early as 6:30 am the morning of the parade hoping to secure the perfect spot along the parade route.

Wear plenty of warm clothes and bring something hot to drink in a thermos, it can get cold watching the parade.

Remember that the duration of the parade depends on where you are watching from--near the begining about 1 hr 1/2 near Macy’s could go closer to 3 hours.

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10TH ANNUAL NEWPORT TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY NOVEMBER 3Oth The Jersey City holiday season becomes official on November 30th when Jersey City Mayor Jerramiah Healy lights the tree at Newport’s Town Square Park located on the Hudson River waterfront in Jersey City.

Tamsen Fadal news anchorwoman for WPIX will be the host of the 2011 event. Festivity’s begin at 5pm and for those people who attend there will be holiday lights, seasonal music, jugglers, treats, and the customary visit by Santa along with complimentary refreshments and hot drinks.

The re-opening of Newport Skates, the community’s outdoor skating rink will also be celebrated at this year’s tree lighting event and from 6 to 8pm Newport, Morton Williams and Skylark on the Hudson a new restaurant opening in the future at Newport are sponsoring the free skating event .

December 1st, has been selected as the rain date.

Happy Thanksgiving from the

River View Observer

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Get ready for the Holidays with Easy Tips for Around the House (ARA )Tis the season for gathering and celebrating.

If you’re hosting a party or get together with family or friends, get your home party-ready in no time with these simple tips that will be a breeze to tackle.

•Make a lasting first impression - the entry way of your home will be heavily trafficked during the holiday season. Try replacing a worn out rug with a festive or brightly colored rug to create a welcoming feel.

‘Next, take a look in the front hall closet.

Create room for guests’ winter attire by moving some of your family coats, hats

and scarves to a bedroom or guest room. A closet with open hangers will make your guests feel right at home.

•Once past the foyer, evaluate the common areas that guests are likely to gather - the kitchen, living room and dining room. It’s easy for clutter to gather on surfaces, especially when decorations are on display.

Clear off counters and table ops and consider removing year-round decorations in favor of holiday decor. The overall look will be warm, festive and inviting.

•If you’re looking for changes that will make an impact, consider replacing old switch and outlet covers with new ones. Replacing old cabinet handles can also give your kitchen an up-

dated look and feel. The SKIL iXO - a 4-volt palm-sized screwdriver fits into tight spots, and is a great tool to keep in a kitchen drawer to take on these tasks. It is also great for assembling toys Santa left behind.

•With your house ready for guests, there’s just one more thing to do - make a list and check it twice. If you’re still coming up empty handed for loved ones, www.skil.com offers great gift ideas. From advanced do-it-yourself tools like circular saws and routers to handy tools such as a tiny cordless screwdriver, Visit www.skil.com for additional gift ideas, DIY projects that will help all season long.

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art Views

SILVERMAN and Majestic Theater Condominium Association present Tim Heins, Fortress Paintings The Majestic Theatre Condominiums 222 Montgomery Street Jersey City, NJ 07302 201-435-8000 Exhibition on view in the lobby November 3, 2011, to February 24, 2012.

Painting at right Tim Heins, Fortress #2, Storm Cloud, oil on linen, 2011, 48”x 60” (detail)

WE SUPPORT THE ARTS Now to November 26, 2011 Cosi Café and Restaurant 545 Washington Blvd, Jersey City, NJ (201) 963-0533 Bonnie Gloris is a local artist, designer, and curator.

Rich color, bold patterning, and intricate details characterize her conceptual work, focusing on figurative oil painting.

If you are an artist with an upcoming exhibition and want to have your work displayed within our art Views section Forward a brief biography and 2 jpegs of your work to riverview observer@ gmail.com Send your information at least three weeks before the exhibition opening

58 Gallery

Night Drawing New work by Sean 9 & LNY Now to November 27th Gallery Hours: Fri.-12- 7pm Sat. 12-5pm or by appointment

58 Cole Street, Jersey City Phone: (973) 219-9696

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restaurant VIEWS Amelia’s Bistro, Welcoming and Wow! Hip and Cozy Eatery Warms Up Paulus Hook Neighborhood

By Sally Deering

N

estled in the historic Paulus Hook section of downtown Jersey City, Amelia’s Bistro on Warren Street is a warm, welcoming and beautiful restaurant with a lovely menu. As soon as you enter the corner bistro, the vibe is welcoming and the attentive staff greets you at the door with a smile.

Designed with an artful eye, the restaurant is reminiscent of the bistros in Paris with its muted gold walls, dark wood accents, white tablecloths and stained glass low-hanging lamps dimly lit over the bar and throughout the dining room.

When you are brought to your table, the waiter takes out a very large “ink stamp” and stamps the white butcher paper on top of the tablecloths, a unique way to inform you of the day’s specials. For a recent lunch, the specials were Lobster Bisque; a Thai Steak Salad; and Caper Crusted Sole Sandwich. I tried the sole and it was magnificent, moist and flakey and the artichoke hearts nestled on the home-made Foccaccia bread (baked on the premises) were a great tangy addition to the fish. The accompanying French fries were crispy on the outside and soft on the inside – sheer perfection on a plate.

Pictued above Amelia’s Bistro at night and a photo of the bar area at the popular downtown Jersey City restaurant

Amelia’s main dining area Amelia’s serves Small Plates like the Minted Risotto Balls; Shrimp Lemon Cerviche; Spicy Red Pepper Sausage; and Tuna Tartar.

Flat Bread (Pizza) features the Chorizo, Wild Mushroom, and Smoked Gouda; and the Maine Lobster & Roasted Garlic Mascarpone.

The bistro also serves Crostini – mini portions of flatbreads topped with interesting combinations like the Cannellini Bean, Basil and Tomato; Smoked Salmon, Ricotta, Citrus and Cilantro; and Shrimp, Tomato, Cilantro and Avocado.

I tried the Manchego, Fig Jam, Marcona Almond; the Chorizo, Roasted Peppers and Reggiano and the Hummus, Feta, Roasted Peppers and Pesto crostinis and they were light, flavorful and fabulous.

Along with the soup of the day, Amelia’s serves a White Bean & Escarole Soup, which was delicious.

The bistro also offers Entrée Salads like the Pear &

Gorgonzola; Sliders including the Mini Kobe Burgers; and Crab Cakes; and Sandwiches featuring the Braised Short Rib; the Chipotle Club; Roasted Turkey Reuben and the Grilled Ham & Gruyere.

Pasta dishes like the Truffled Mac & Cheese; Penne & Sweet Sausage; and Maine Lobster Fettuccini are offered along with Fish and Meat entrees like the Seafood Paella; Miso Glazed Chilean Sea Bass; Beer Battered Fish and Chips; Chicken Sauvignon; Cracked Pepper Herb Fried Chicken and Salt Rubbed Strip Steak.

The Dessert Menu had some yummy choices including the Ultimate Chocolate Brownie Sundae; New York High Cheesecake; and the Homemade Skillet Apple Cobbler, which was served warm from the oven with a side of vanilla ice cream – out of this world delish!

Cont’d on page 21

Looking for a new restaurant to try? Not sure where to dine in Hudson County?

Visit our dining category at www.riverviewobserver.net

Read more restaurant VIEW’s by Sally Deering

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restaurant VIEWS

Amelia’s Bistro cont’d from page 20

On Saturdays and Sundays, Amelia’s serves Brunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and there are lots of great choices including Caramel Crunch Brioche French Toast; Fresh Buttermilk Pancakes; Salmon Pizzette; Southern Apple Chicken Sausage and Biscuits; and Crepes served in a myriad of ways, like the Seafood crepe, the Apple Cobbler, Sausage Crepe and the Strawberry Banana Crepe.

There’s an extensive wine menu and after dinner drink offerings include Cognac, Grappa, Single Malt Scotch, Dessert Beer, Dessert Wines, Coffee Drinks and Dessert Martinis. And while the main floor dining room is beautiful; there’s also a lovely dining room downstairs for private parties.

Amelia’s caters on and off premises and they do a swell take-out delivery service to nearby office buildings.

For a cozy and delicious dining experience, try a visit to Amelia’s on Warren Street.

You’re sure to become one of the many regulars who slip in almost daily to dine in this friendly neighborhood bistro.

Amelia’s Bistro

187 Warren Street Jersey City, NJ (201) 332-2200 www.ameliasbistro.com Hours: Mon-Fri: 11:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Sat and Sun: 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Sat, Sun Brunch: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Amelia’s also features...

• Outdoor Dining until November 30th • Happy Hour: Every Monday thru Friday 5pm -7pm featuring $5 Martini’s & $3 Beers

• Tuesdays- 2 for1 Any wine by the glass-choose from 30 seletions (each drink is discounted 50%)

• Saturday and Sundays from 10am -3pm - $4 Mimosas Bloody Mary’s & Bellinis

• Wednesday’s 2 for 1 Martini’s (each drink discounted 50%)

There’s Alway’s Something New and Exciting to Try at Amelia’s I t a l i a R i s t o ra n te p re s e n t s e ve r y Fr i d a y & Sa t u rd a y Billy Christopher -playing all your favorite music

I t a l i a R i s to ra n t e 2 7 5 B roa d wa y, Ba yo n n e 2 0 1 . 8 5 8 . 9 9 6 9

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STARGAZINE

ARIES (March 21 - April 19) Uranus the planet of change transiting the 4th house governing the home front and real estate seems to indicate some drama and tumult on the horizon. It could be a move, either permanent or temporary, or a new purchase or sale. Whatever, the actual results the astral advice for November suggests that you brace yourself for an abundance of activity.

TAURUS (April 20 - May 20) Jupiter retrograde in the 5th house and nicely aspected indicates luck with creative ventures and an increase in finances. A job interview from months ago could resurface and change your future. In the past you have disregarded common sense to make a personal point. Now you have adjusted your attitude and will be able to work constructively with those who can influence your life.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20) Someone you thought wasn’t noticing will declare their interest. In a month that offers excitement and romance, those unattached Gemini’s may find the soul-mate or at least their friend mate. Just a time that will bring back memories of when love was the only thing that mattered and everything else in your life played a far second place.- a time of revitalization and a return to fun.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22) Interesting issues of inheritance and kinship are the focus of November. Thoughts of past family issues seem clear now in hindsight. A visit to an ancestry website can reveal family secrets. Always the sentimental one you feel a connection to your past and the future looks brighter.

This temporary reminiscence is fun but is over with the beginning of December. You realize that one cannot live in the past.

Month of November 2011

LEO (July 23 - Aug. 22) Can you say powerful? That is what the outlook of your November seems to be.

Mars in Leo in the 9th house finds you showing off your intellect and looking great as well. You roar and people listen to the attractive and super smart Lion. Enjoy as this is the beginning of great things to come.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept.22) Someone from your past has returned and the air is cleared. No apologies and no accusations just talk. You are able to let yesterday’s box of issues be firmly closed.

Go forward with confidence. Although you can’t return to the relationship you once had you can form a new alliance based on friendship.

LIBRA (Sept. 22 - Oct. 22) Saturn won’t allow you to remain the underdog for long. In the past you may have avoided conflict and kept quiet when you were unfairly attacked. Now it is a refreshing part of you Saturnized personality to correct anyone who dares enter your space carrying with them a condescending attitude. Lessons are learned and you are satisfied with your new status.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) Some behind the scenes drama and gossip as those you thought were friends bare their claws in a catty conference. You are the subject of an agenda based on jealousy and deceit. Your awareness, however, is keen and you prevent any real loss of blood or reputation. You answer their howls with common sense and class. The retreat to their lairs and peek out,and now view you with genuine respect.

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by J. Banta Lewis

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) Your personal standing in the community will be at an all-time high, 1st house energies suggest a change in the way people will perceive your power. You will look attractive and confident to all even if you are insecure inside. Play the role of the person you wish to be and this month you will transform into that positive and magnetic soul.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) Show me the money, may be the battle cry of November as 2nd house issues are dominate. Pay increases and/ or restructing of finances are highlighted. You take the time to set up a budget and work on the tedious job of accounting for each penny.

Uncovering waste and preparing a financial plan for the future adds to the feeling of security created in the month of November.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb 18) Aquarius, the mother of invention.You may be using your resourcefulness in the month of November. Obstacles in your path are weak as you scramble over them. You don’t have time to think of the challenges-you just conquer them. All and all, a month of accomplishments.

PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 20) The sensitive Pisces native should remember that all feelings are not necessarily facts. At times you may think that the whole world is against you and no one is grateful for all that you do. This way of thinking creates a victim mentality and leaves you down and depressed. Choose instead to think that you have a choice on those you lavish your gifts on and realize you have permission to say, NO! © STARGAZINE 2011

stargazine1@aol.com stargazingonline.com

J Banta Lewis Stargazing 709 Broadway At 32nd Street Since 1996 201-339-4555

Visit www.njrockstar.com for video & photo coverage of our weekly FUN Fridays party at The West Five Supper Club!

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Sales Activity Sizzles at The Residences at Dixon Mills with 10 Homes Sold in October New Home Designs with Eight New Floor Plans are Now Available as well as FHA Financing with down payments as low as 3.5% JERSEY CITY, N.J. (November 18, 2011) — The Residences at Dixon Mills, one of the fastest selling communities in the downtown Jersey City area, recently sold 10 homes in October at the premier historic condominium community.

The former pencil factory, located in the Van Vorst Park section of the city, has been transformed into a unique and exciting 467-home complex that bridges classic industrial design with contemporary

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innovation to create an enchanting lifestyle experience.

Sizzling sales aren’t the only activities taking place at the community as a number of home designs with eight new floor plans are now available and a new model home is furnished and complete.

Also, renovations to enhance the interior public spaces of the community have been completed. Work has been completed in the Heritage Building and The Ticon Building renovations are expected to be complete by the end of November.

“There is so much excitement in the air here at Dixon Mills and you can readily

see all the progress that has been made over the past few months,” said Jodi Stasse, president of Stasse & Company, a Princeton, N.J.-based real estate sales and marketing firm that is the exclusive sales and marketing agent for Dixon Mills.

“Prospective homebuyers are responding to the tremendous value they see in this exceptional community because of its craftsmanship, prime location and first-class amenities.”

The one-of-a-kind floor plans at Dixon Mills include a mix of studios, one bedrooms, two bedrooms, duplexes and townhomes.

Private outdoor patios and decks as well as some units with spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline and Statue of Liberty are available with select homes.

Designed by architect Nancy Santos, LLC, each of the five buildings will have its own distinct “flavor” with a new color palette, artwork and lighting fixture and incorporates existing details such as charming cobblestones and antique brick elements to tie the elegant, old-world style with modern warmth and sophistication.

Additionally, the developer in coordination with Wells Fargo Home Mortgage has FHA financing available for qualified Dixon Mills purchasers.

“The Residences at Dixon Mills is meeting a need in the eclectic and stimulating Jersey City community,” said Greg Berger, principal of Elmsford N.Y.-based Robert Martin Company, developer of The Residences at Dixon Mills.

“The new unit renovations are outstanding and we are extremely proud of the new building finishes and designs which are very appealing and customer driven as Dixon Mills strives to offer buyers the best quality and the utmost value for their investment.”

The Club at Dixon Mills provides residents with access to a state-of-the-art complex featuring several lifestyle

en hancing amenities, including a fully-equipped fitness center; movement room for activities such as yoga, stretching and classes; an all-purpose sports court for basketball and volleyball; and men’s and women’s locker rooms and saunas.

Other amenities include an expansive lifestyle lounge complete with a fireplace and kitchen, and a media room with comfortable seating and a plug ‘n’ play Wi-Fi laptop area. Adapted from the community’s historic Powerhouse Building, The Club at Dixon Mills is the premier amenity space among any Jersey City condo community.

The community is located just three blocks from the nearby Grove Street PATH station, offering direct access to Wall Street or Midtown, as well as the neighborhood’s many retailers, restaurants and cultural and entertainment venues. As part of the community’s amenities package, Dixon Mills offers residents a shuttle bus that takes them from their door to the PATH station. There is also easy access from the New Jersey Turnpike and Route 78.

The Residences at Dixon Mills Sales Office is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (mornings & evenings by appointment).

Please call the Sales Office at 201-309-1004 or visit www. dixonmillsjc.com.

HELP WANTED Looking for Experienced Hair Stylist with following to work in popular Bayonne Salon Call 201-437-1700 HELP WANTED

Carpet, Upholstery, Window Cleaner, residential/commercial, part-time leading to full-time experience a plus, occasional Saturdays For more information Call 201-420-1111

HELP WANTED

Cleaning Service position, residential/commercial, part-time leading to full time, experience a plus, must be available Saturdays For more information Call 201-420-1111

Publishers Notice-All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal

Fair Housing Act, the New Jersey Civil Rights Law, and the Jersey City Code which makes it illegal to advertise any preferences, limitations or discrimination based on race , Color religion , Sex, national origin handicap, familial status, creed, ancestry,, martial status, affectional or sexual orientation, nationality, civil union status, domestic partnership status,, gender identity, or expression, or source of lawful income, age or liability to service in the Armed Forces of the United States, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. TO report discrimination call the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) at1-800-669-9777. The HUD TTY telephone number for the hearing impaired is 212-708-1455.

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