Volume 15, No. 10
October 24th - November 11th 2011 FREE PUBLICATION
201-349-4336
Pg. 2 On the Cover
Bayonne Boxing Champ Chuck Wepner – The Real Rocky Balboa – Star of ESPN Documentary By Sally Deering
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Then... Pg. 4 Hudson Again
Pg. 7
Pippin in Hoboken
Pg. 13
Redo Rooms
Pg. 24
Stargazine
Pgs. 22-23 & 25-28
Say Yes. . . See pg. 6
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t 72, Chuck Wepner of Bayonne stands 6’5”, weighs 250 lbs, has biceps like ropes of steel, and looks like he can still go a few rounds in the ring – even though it’s been 36 years since his match with Muhammad Ali for the World Heavyweight title. In 1975, Wepner boxed 15 rounds with Ali and lost with a broken nose, cuts over his eyes and a bruised ego. But what the Bayonne boxer didn’t know was that an unknown named Sylvester Stallone was watching the fight on his TV set and three days later would write “Rocky” based on underdog Wepner. The film became a major hit in 1976 winning three Academy Awards and earning Stallone fame and fortune. Yo! Let’s not forget the sequels, too. On Tues, Oct 25 at 8 p.m., “The Real Rocky” a documentary about Wepner’s life as a championship
boxer and the story behind his bout with Ali airs on ESPN. (It also airs Wed, Oct 26 at 11 p.m. and Sat, November 26 at 7:30 a.m. on ESPN2.) And a film based on Wepner’s amazing story is in pre-production and will star Liev Schreiber as Wepner. The one-hour documentary is directed by Jeff Feuerzeig, an award -winning director whose feature film “The Devil and Daniel Johnston” won top documentary directing honors at the 2005 Sundance Film Festival. On ESPN.go.com, Feuerzeig, who grew up in New Jersey, explained his inspiration for making the Wepner documentary. “I’ve been a Chuck Wepner fan ever since 1975, when I was 10 years old and my father took my brother and me to Sports Night at the Raritan High School gymnasium in Hazlet to see Chuck, aka ‘The Bayonne Bleeder,’ just months before he was set to go up against Muhammad Ali for the heavyweight title,” con’t pg. 2 Feuerzeig told ESPN.
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Photo of Chuck & Linda Wepner by Steveamack.com
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on the cover . “There were no figures who loomed larger in this 10 yearold’s imagination than Evel Knievel, Andre the Giant and, especially, Muhammad Ali – “The Greatest” – and here was a 6-foot-5 behemoth (Wepner) in a full-length fur coat…and ridiculous amount of jewelry leading us in a chant of ‘Who’s gonna beat Ali? WEPNER!’ And in that instant, Chuck Wepner became a real-life mythological figure -- as real to me as the Jersey Devil that haunted the local Pine Barrens.” These days, Wepner, the former New Jersey state heavyweight boxing champion who was christened “The Bayonne Bleeder” for the hits he took in the ring boxing Sonny Liston, and his (third) wife of 18 years, Linda are riding
..
By Sally Deering
high from the renewed interest in Wepner’s career. They ride around in the family “Caddy” with the vanity license plates “Champ” and make guest appearances in Bayonne and other cities to promote the documentary and upcoming film. Just recently, Wepner was in Philadelphia where he raced up the courthouse steps against Stallone, a publicity stunt for the documentary and a chance to meet up with his good buddy Stallone. On a recent afternoon, Wepner took time out from his busy schedule to talk with the Riverview Observer in his beautiful Bayonne home about the renewed interest in his boxing career, his match with Ali and the upcoming documentary and film about his life in and out of the ring.
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RO: Can you talk about your early family life? CW: My father was a cop and became a professional fighter. He was a training partner for Jack Dempsey and James Braddock. I was born in New York City and when my parents separated my mother brought me and my brother to Bayonne to live. But even though I never saw my father until I was 25, when I was growing up my mother never said a bad word about him. When we came to Jersey, my mother had her hat in her hand. We had no real place to live and a friend offered us a coal shed, which my mother converted into a room for us to live. She was a good mother who thought everyone was good. Kids today think they have a tough
life – they’re full of it. RO: Did you make amends with your dad?CW: I was 25, just turned pro and fighting for the National Championship Golden Gloves against John L. Sullivan in Madison Square Garden. My father came up to me and said, “Do you know me, son?” I said “yes.” He said to me, “I’m cheering for you.” I beat Sullivan that night. My father and I made friends. RO: What can you tell us about your famous bout with Ali? CW: In Jersey City, the fight was broadcast on Closed Circuit TV at the Stanley Theater in Journal Square. I was the 40-1 underdog. I was with Ali the night before
the fight at the Cleveland Coliseum, a beautiful venue for the fight. We had dinner. The next time I saw him was in the ring. RO: Was it a knockout? CW: No. They stopped the fight with only 19 seconds left in the round. Tony Perez was the ref. Each round was three minutes. It was the 15th round and from the 14th round on, my legs were shaking. I was exhausted. I had been in the ring with Ali for an hour. In the 15th round, when Ali hit me, I fell, but I was getting back up. That’s when Tony saw that my eyes were glazed and he stopped the fight with only 19 seconds left. Later, he told me, ‘If I had known there was only 19 seconds left, I would have continued the fight.”
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I was more shocked than anybody. I only got seven stitches. I got more cuts here (in Bayonne) on a Friday night. I was undefeated in bars, men’s rooms. Years ago, Bayonne was a rough town. It was a great town. It still is. RO: Were you scared to get in the ring with Ali? CW: I was never scared. I was nervous about not doing well. Even if I didn’t win this fight, I wanted to prove I belong there. I owe Ali for so much; I became famous from the ‘Rocky’ series. RO: Did you see Ali after the fight? CW: We were friends. I made appearances with him and I made friends with his daughters. He’s a great guy. RO: What was it like the first time you saw “Rocky”? CW: I went to a theater in New York City for the premier. I remember thinking I hope this movie is good. As the movie started going, I’m thinking this is a good movie. I never realized ‘Rocky’ would be the biggest grossing movie. Stallone made 23 billion on all the ‘Rockys’. RO: Did you train by hitting sides of beef in a meat locker? CW: No. Stallone added the sides of beef. It was a good idea.
RO: How do you stay in shape? Still boxing? CW: I don’t box anymore. I don’t need it anymore. I earned a Black Belt in Ju Jitsu, but dropped that. I lift weights, keep myself decent looking so when people say ‘He’s the former champ’ they don’t see me looking old and decrepit. RO: Can you talk about the upcoming movie about your life? CW: It’s been in preproduction for eight years. First it was John C. Reilly who was gonna play me, then Vince Vaughn, and now Liev Schreiber. He’s right for it. He’s 6’2”, weighs 220 and he’s a good actor. RO: You’re good friends with Sly Stallone? CW: I love Stallone. When I was getting ready for the race up the Philadelphia Courthouse steps, he sent me an email: ‘I’ll be waiting on the steps for you.’ He was good to me. I think he’s a terrific guy. “The Real Rocky” based on the life and boxing career of Chuck Wepner airs Tues, Oct. 25 at 8 p.m. on ESPN. For more info, go to www.espn.go.com.
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www.riverviewobserver.com Page 3 – River View Observer
Hudson Then...Again
By Maureen Wlodarczyk
L
ike most everyone, I receive a real assortment of emails, many of which go, unopened, straight into the delete folder. I recently received one announcing an upcoming Veterans Day ceremony. Since my husband is a Viet Nam vet, I took a minute to open and read that email. It grabbed my attention by pointing out that this Veterans Day, which falls on the date 11-11-11, is a special occasion that will not happen again for a hundred years. A great opening line, it got me thinking and, in a flash, I was in “history detective” mode, searching out the skinny on Veterans Day. I was vaguely aware that the original name of this holiday of military remembrance was Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I. In its day, that war was called the “greatest war in history,” although it would lose that distinction two decades later when an even more global conflict, World War II, gripped the world. Although the United States entered World War I in its latter stages as the result
of repeated direct provocation by Germany, our national commitment was strong and our sacrifices significant. The signing of the November 11, 1918 armistice agreement that ended active hostilities and set out the framework for post-war Europe was met with great jubilation throughout the country. Millions of American men were drafted into military service in response to our entry into World War I and thousands of those were from Hudson County. Newspapers routinely reported on Hudson County’s draft quotas and the periodic departure of hundreds of local men mustered to meet those quota requirements. These draftees, referred to as war “rookies,” were sent off by crowds of cheering and weeping family, friends and neighbors who gathered to wish them well and marching bands that turned out to salute them. Too soon, the rookies would find themselves in trenches in France where close combat, poisonous gas attacks and the spreading influenza epidemic all
threatened their survival. President Woodrow Wilson’s armistice announcement meant the end of the draft, victory rallies replacing bittersweet sendoffs and, according to one Hudson newspaper, “wild delirium of joy” erupted at the news of the end of the fighting and the surrender of Germany. The end of World War I was remembered and commemorated each November following the 1918 armistice, even before the designation of Armistice Day as an official holiday.
Visit us on the web @ www.riverviewobserver.com Page 4 River View Observer
In the months leading up to the fourth anniversary in 1922, the faithful people of Hudson County were once again coming out in great numbers in support of America’s World War I heroes when the repatriated remains of thousands of fallen American soldiers, and some combat nurses, arrived at the Hoboken piers on their way home to their final resting places. Thousands of American families elected to have their loved ones removed from European battlefield cemeteries and returned to the United States. As ships like the transport Wheaton arrived and the caskets of the fallen were offloaded in Hoboken, the fallen were off-loaded in Hoboken, local clergy of all faiths collaborated in holding services for the dead on the piers. Each arriving transport ship carried home soldiers from all parts of the country, including Hudson County’s own fallen heroes and, with each homecoming, the community came out and came together. In late 1921, over 1,000 people turned out at the Hoboken piers for services held for 2,400
arriving soldier dead. Earlier that year, President Warren G. Harding, his wife and other dignitaries came to the Hoboken piers to participate in ceremonies when 5,000 soldier dead arrived on the Wheaton. In the years following the end of World War I, Americans continued to come together to commemorate Armistice Day each November. They did not want to forget the sacrifices of the brave Americans who fought and died for them and they hoped, as does each new generation, that the suffering and painful memories of one war could prevent another. 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. She is an avid genealogical and historical researcher and squeezed in a career as an operations manager in banking and financial services.
“Tea & Tales of Olde Jersey City”to benefit the Historic Jersey City & Harsimus Cemetery 435 New-
ark Ave., Jersey City on SUNDAY, NOV 6th at 2 pm Meet the Author!! Maureen Wlodarczyk hosts “Tea & Tales of Olde Jersey City.” A Benefit for the Restoration of the Historic Jersey City & Harsimus Cemetery. Donation requested. www.jerseycitycemetery.org Join Author, Columnist and Genealogist Maureen Wlodarczyk for a refreshing cup of tea and a lively discussion of her years of genealogical searching that led to suprising, (sometimes shocking!) and “poignant discoveries” about her early family roots in 1800’s Jersey City, & her two books about life in Jersey City from the 1840s to 1930s: “PastForward: A Three-Decade and Three-Thousand-Mile Journey Home” and “Young & Wicked: The Death of a Wayward Girl”, each a true multi-generational story of immigrants, their families and the struggles they faced as new Americans in early Jersey City. Maureen will answer questions about genealogy resources and search tips and signed copies of her books will be available at a special discounted price. Call 201-707-0738 for more information.
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PLEASE PLACE THE HOBOKEN GOLD YES AD with woman with diamonds up top here find ad on page 8 September 29th I don’t have the ad anymore was lost when my computer crashed -sorry Thanks Joe
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PIPPIN Finds His ‘Corner of the Sky’ in Hoboken!
The Hoboken Children’s Theater Company will present the musical, ‘PIPPIN’, the Tony Award winning, rock/pop sensation of ‘70s Broadway, with music & lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. Performances will take place in Hoboken at Monroe Center’s Theatre Space on Friday and Saturday, November 4 & 5 at 7:00 PM and Sunday, November 6 at 2:00 & 7:00 PM. ‘PIPPIN’ is under the direction of Chase Leyner. The HCTC production of ‘PIPPIN’ features students, ages 14-17, from three Hudson County area high schools. The role of Pippin will be played by St. Peter’s Prep freshman, Marc Wright of Bayonne. Featured High Tech High School students are Julia Small and Georgia Sebesky (Leading Players), Frankie Alicandri (Berthe), Nevada Koenig (Catherine) and Michael Prussack (Charles). Senior Company performers from Hoboken High School are brother and sister Jaemison YoonHendricks (Louis) and Alexandra Yoon-Hendricks (Fastrada). Director Chase Leyner states, “In this production of Pippin, we took on a standard Broadway musical and turned it on it’s ear, making
INTRODUCING THE CAST OF PIPPIN! The Tony Award winning pop/rock musical, ‘PIPPIN’, is being presented by the Hoboken Children’s Theater Company on November 4, 5 & 6 at the Monroe Center for the Performing Arts Theater Space, Hoboken. ‘PIPPIN ‘is under the direction of Chase Leyner and features the HCTC Senior Company, who attend High Tech High School, Hoboken High School and Saint Peter’s Prep. The Cast includes (L to R) Nevada Koenig (HTHS), Michael Prussak (HTHS), Georgia Sabesky (HTHS), Frankie Alicandri (HTHS), Jaemison Yoon –Hendricks (HHS), Marc Wright (SPP) and Julia Small (HTHS). Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at hobokenchildrenstheater.com, or by calling 646-339-8485. Appropriate for ages 10 and up.
it timely and accessible to the teens embodying these characters and a brand new experience for the audience. These kids have an enormous joy for performing and an innate sense of professionalism…they are not to be missed!” Acceptance into the HCT ‘Senior Company’ and its productions is by invitation/audition, and is for students who are experienced and advanced in all aspects of musical theater. ‘PIPPIN’ tells the story of a young man who longs to discover the secret of true happiness and fulfillment. He seeks it in the glories of the sports battlefields, the intrigues of political power and the complications of relationships. In the end, he finds it in the simplicity of home and family. PG rated and suitable for ages 10 through Adult. Tickets for ‘PIPPIN’ can be PURCHASED on-line at hobokenchildrenstheater.com. For more information you can call HCTC at 646-339-8485. Tickets are $15 and will be held at the door at the time of the performance. The Monroe Center Theater Space is located at 720 Monroe St., Hoboken, 2nd Floor. Parking is Free. The Hoboken Children’s Theater has been a viable ‘training ground’ for Hudson County’s young, musical theater performers for 10 years and averages 10-12 musical offerings a year. The HCT is a production based school that gives serious students an opportunity to work and perform at a very high level, but also offers classes for those who just have a passion to perform and want to grow. Hundreds of students have participated in HCT classes over the years, in an environment that fosters a ‘sense of family’ amongst young and old, as well as between those who aspire to be professionals and those who just want to join HCT to build self confidence through performance. HCT students have appeared on Broadway and in television and film, been accepted to Paper Mill Playhouse and NJPAC’s audition conservatories and to top rated high school and college theater arts programs/ curriculums. HCT Director, Chase Leyner, received the 2009 Park Performing Arts Center Showtime Award for her work with young performers. Classes for ages 4 and up, and all levels of experience, are available from September through July. For 2011-12 enrolment, contact the Hoboken Children’s Theater at 646-339-8485 or at www.hobokenchildrenstheater.com. In the words of HCTC Director, Chase Leyner, “What kids learn from the arts is crucial to their success as adults. These experiences resonate in everything they do!”
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Small Works
Opening Reception: Saturday, November 5th, 6- 9 pm Lana Santorelli Gallery will host an opening reception for Small Works on Saturday, November 5th, 2011 from 6 to 9pm at 628 Washington Street. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Sunday 11 am to 7 pm. Small Works runs through December 4th.
On a beautiful warm October Saturday street musician Dusty Rhodes entertains the many people walking past City Hall in downtown Jersey City
Aquaocean (detail) by Sarah Fattori To read more on this exibition go to
www.riverviewobserver.com
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Noted Artist Judy Taylor to Appear at Hudson County Community College Foundation’s Artist Talk Series
Appearance scheduled for Thursday evening, November 10th will be the artist’s only speaking engagement in the New York-New Jersey area this fall The Hudson County Community College Foundation will host another segment in its Artist Talk Series on Thursday, Nov. 10, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. That evening, portrait and classical figurative artist Judy Taylor will talk about the 36-foot murals she painted portraying the labor history of Maine. The event will be held in the College’s Culinary Arts Institute/Conference Center, 161 Newkirk Street in Jersey City, just two blocks from the Journal Square PATH Station. Further information on Judy Taylor’s appearance and tickets may be obtained by contacting Andrea Siegel at (201) 360-4007 or by emailing asiegel@hccc.edu.
JERSEY CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY SPECIAL PROGRAMS:
* Biblioteca Criolla, 4th Floor, Main, 472 Jersey Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07302, 201-5474541 – For Children: Wednesday & Friday, 11/02 & 11/04, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.: Storytelling, with Segunda Quimbamba. English y en español. / For Children: November Lessons in Drums, Music & More / Tambores, Música y Mas, with Segunda Quimbamba. Monday, 11/07 @ 4 p.m. Drum-making Workshop/Taller Hacer el Tambor. Wednesday, 11/09, 16 & 21 @ 3:30 p.m. Drum Instructions/Aprende a tocar Tambor. Tuesday, 11/22, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. Final Program.
theater VIEWS
Auditions The Park Players are looking for Musical Directors for their upcoming 2012 Season. Contact John at (201) 736-0878 for an interview Visit us on the web @ www. Riverviewobserver.com
Photo by steveamack.com Bayonne’s boxing legend Chuck Wepner poses in front of a photo of his 1975 match with Muhammad Ali at a recent pre-screeing of the ESPN Documentary “The Real Rocky”at the Ritz East Movie Theater in Philadelphia.The documentary was being shown as part of the Philadelphia Film Festival. (See our cover story in this issue)
MUSIC
Maxwell’s of Hoboken 1039 Washington St. Features Live Music Wednesday Oct. 26 Kelsey Byrne/ The Living Room Girls/ Julie Weldon Thursday Oct. 27 The Walking Heroes/ Tonight Life/ Lion of Ido
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Email us your community events 2 weeks prior to event jcalobserver@aol.com Page 10 River View Observer
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.
Yonkers
Yonkers and his brother Brooklyn are as cute as can be. Born in May 2009, the boys are playful and friendly fellows who will need eyedrops for an eye infection they were born with. That little extra effort will come back to you many times over with the love and purrs you’ll be showered with!
Curious Matter Presents Dividing Light Measuring Darkness Exhibition
Now thru Nov. 6th
Sundays from noon to 3pm
and by appointment
Group exhibit explores the fearsome dark and the Joyful Light . Darkness Hides danger, light exposes them 23 artists exhibit works covering this theme
Curious Matter 272 Fifth Street, JCNJ 201-659-5771 wwwcuriousmatter. blogspot.com
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Music Happenings in Hudson
Paul Sorvino Sings!
Film and Broadway Star in Concert at Loew’s Jersey City on Oct. 27th & Nov.4th See this talented actor who has appeared in many films, and on Broadway and TV, who is also a painter, sculptor, writer, director, chef and opera singer. And on Thursday October 27th and Friday November 4th Paul Sorvino will take the stage at the Loew’s Jersey City in “ Paul Sorvino Sings! A concert will Sorvino sings arias and Neapolitian folk songs and tells stories of his life as an actor. Loew’s Jersey City 54 Journal Square, Jersey City, NJ 201-798-6055 Tickets $75 to $125 and can be purchased at www.BrownPaperTickets.com For more info, visit www.paulsorvinosings.com for questions, email paulsorvino@gmail.com Paul Sorvino photo by Wildwood by the Sea Film Festival
The Duprees Bayonne High School October 29th
The Bayonne Education Foundation is proud to present the Duprees live in concert on October 29th, 2011, 7:00PM, at the Bayonne High School Alexander X. O’ Connor Auditorium. Tickets are available through the BEF Duprees hotline at 201858-0477 or by visiting the BEF website at bayonneeducationfoundation.org and clicking on events. Call the BEF Duprees hotline at 201-858-0477 for ticket info today!
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Room Redo’s for a $100 or Less! (ARA) -
Only on TV would a redecorating budget of
a couple thousand dollars be considered “shoestring.” In the real world, most of us have a lot less than that to spend on redoing a room.
Fortunately, it’s possible to completely change the look
of any room in the house for as little as $100. All you need to do is focus on the design elements that will deliver the most impact for the least cost.
If your youngster is ready for a new look in his room, rip
down that teddy bear border, let him pick a paint color and consider dressing up one wall of the room with a mural. You can find plenty of kids murals for less than $100 online at websites like DecorPlace.com. Whether he likes a solar system theme or she wants a princess canopy, a wall mural can make redoing a children’s room fast and easy.
It’s easy to spend a bundle on a kitchen rehab, but it’s just as easy to make small
changes that have a big impact. Consider simple upgrades like new cabinet hardware, a new kitchen faucet and a new light fixture. You can also use a wall mural in the kitchen to dress it up. Whether you’re looking for a rustic theme that would fit with Italian murals or a nature scape that turns a blank wall into a view on another world, you can find a wall mural to fit virtually every decorating theme for as little as $60. For More decor ideas visit www.riverviewobserver.com
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The Bayonne Urban Enterprise Zone Has It All– For Fall Great Restaurants ·Great Values · Plenty of Parking ^Over 150 members ready to meet all your needs ^Take the Light Rail stations at 45th 34th, 22nd, & 8th street ^Ample Parking throughout the shopping districts ^Pay Only 3.5% Sales tax on eligible retail items ^Wide selection of both casual and fine dining ^Unique boutique shops not found anywhere else ^Numerous value stores for bargain shopping ^Hair Salons, Health Spas & Fitness Centers ^Find Cell phones, MP3 Players, CD’s, Computers, Lap Tops, ipads and other electronics ^Unique Jewelry stores for you to shop
And Remember...Bayonne, Why Shop Anywhere Else? For information call the BUEZ at 201-858-6357
Remember Look for Our Logo and Save For a complete directory of all our members, please check our website at www.bayonnenj.org/uez Paid for with Bayonne Urban Enterprise Zone Funds Page 14 River View Observer
RE DEFINE
HALLOWEEN SATURDAY OCTOBER 29 2011
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LIVE LOCAL THEATER The Attic Ensemble presents NEXT FALL by Geoffrey Nauftts
The Attic Ensemble, Theater for a New Jersey City, presents the second production of its forty-first season: the New Jersey non-professional premiere of Next Fall by Geoffrey Nauftts, directed by George Seylaz of Belleville. The production runs from November 11-20, 2011. The production features Ginger Kipps of Jersey City, Bayonne resident Paul Zeller, Eileen Marks of Weehawken, Montclair resident Benjamin Holmes, Jack Pignatello of Bloomfield and Timothy Ryan. This timely and compelling new American play forces us all to examine what it means to “believe” and what it might cost us not to. Director George Seylaz says “I was drawn to Next Fall, for its humor in the face of adversity, for its real characters and its universal heart. Its themes can speak to us all, if we only stop to listen. The Story: Luke and Adam are in love and have been living together for several years even though Luke, a closeted, conservative Christian, feels his homosexual desires are sinful. When Luke is in an accident and dying, his parents arrive on the scene, marginalizing Adam. The play includes flashbacks of Luke and Adam’s developing relationship, plus the drama unfolding in the hospital. A look at love and marriage, and how we face death, regardless of faith or sexual orientation. Performances are November 11-20, 2011; Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm; Sunday matinees at 3 pm and Thursday November 17th at 7 pm. Tickets are $20.00 general admission, $15 students and seniors. Group rates are also available. Tickets can be charged online at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/191974. Cash and checks ONLY are accepted at the box office/ reserve tickets at www. atticensemble.org. Jersey Arts Cards are accepted for discounted ticket pricing. The Barrow Mansion is handicapped accessible and barrier free. Large print program available upon request; please call one week in advance to arrange for a large print program. Assisted listening devices will be available for the Thursday November 17th 7 p.m. performance. Please call one week in advance to request a device. The Attic Ensemble Historic Barrow Mansion, 83 Wayne Street, Jersey City close to PATH. 201 413-9200 info@atticensemble.org Free parking after 7 p.m. 1 ½ blocks away on Christopher Columbus Drive. For directions & more information: www.atticensemble.org; e-mail: info@atticensemble.org. Visit us on the web @ www.riverviewobserver.com
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restaurant VIEWS That’s Amore!
Da Noi Restaurant serves Divine Italian Cuisine in a Romantic, Elegant Atmosphere By Sally Deering “Da Noi” means “by us” or “from us” in Italian and it’s also the name of a romantic and elegant restaurant in Bayonne where you will enjoy fine Italian dishes that are like “amore” on a plate! I heard Chef Gordon Ramsey say on one of his TV shows recently that New Jersey is known for its Italian restaurants and after years of dining Italiano in my home state, this Jersey girl knows by now that some of those places serve pizza and spaghetti and call it Italian cuisine. But if you want to taste the real deal, Italian dishes that are made to order by an excellent chef, in a warm and romantic setting, then run, don’t walk, to Da Noi Restaurant in Bayonne. On a recent Friday I stopped by Da Noi Restaurant in Bayonne and Romalo Avila the assistant manager greeted me at the door and showed me to a table in a cozy yet elegant dining room painted a creamy yellow with dark cherry wood trim, open wine racks and pictures of Italy, shelves of wine bottles and Italian songs playing in the background. Avila escorted me to a seat at one of the linen-covered tables and as I sat down, a waiter brought an appetizer of Bruschetta – chopped tomatoes in olive oil on toasted bread – and a basket of warm bread with olive oil to dip it in. I was feeling the amore before I even ordered my meal. Avila brought me a glass of red wine a robust full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon that helped set the mood for what was to be an elegant, delicious and satisfying dining experience. I tried the Insalata Caprini, goat cheese baked over a field of greens with walnuts in a balsamic vinaigrette that was delicious. The warm goat cheese melded beautifully with the walnuts and greens and the slight tang of the balsamic vinaigrette. I then tried a pasta dish, Rollolo Mantanara, homemade pasta rolled and filled with spinach, Ricotta cheese and wild mushrooms in a pink sauce topped with freshly-grated Parmesan cheese. Avila told me this dish is one of the house signature dishes and I can see why. The flavors of this dish were amazing – the texture of the homemade pasta and the flavors of mushroom, Ricotta cheese and spinach were a love-fest for my taste buds. Da Noi Restaurant’s lunch and dinner menu features classic Italian Antipasti dishes like Gamberi Griglioli, grilled shrimp over sautéed zucchini, pine nuts and plum tomatoes; Crespelle Fiorentina, eggplant cannelloni filled with Ricotta and spinach; and Fegalini di pollo ai Balsamico, sautéed chicken liver over a field of greens salad; and Insalata Bianca, hearts of palm, artichoke, mushrooms and endive tossed in oil and lemon with shaved Parmesan. Page 20 River View Observer
Pasta dishes include Fidellini Mare e Monte with shitake mushrooms and shrimp in a light red sauce; Ravioli Piamonlese filled with spinach and cheese in a pink sauce; and Rigatoni Cipullo with ground sweet sausage, prosciutto and cream. Cont ’d on page 21
restaurant VIEWS
cont’d from page 20
For fish lovers, there’s the Filet Sole Fiorentina sautéed with lemon and white wine over spinach; Shrimp Parmeggiana with marinara sauce and Mozzarella served with linguine; and Zuppa di Pesce, mixed seafood stewed in tomato sauce. Chicken dishes feature Pollo Scarpariello sautéed in rosemary, garlic and wine; Pollo San Remo, boneless chicken sautéed with sundried tomatoes, peas and Portobello mushrooms; and Pollo Castelli Romana, boneless chicken with shallots, artichokes and mushrooms. Meat dishes include Bistecca ai Ferri, grilled sirloin steak served with roasted potatoes and Vitello Martini, veal encrusted with Parmesan and sautéed in lemon and white wine. There’s a divine dessert menu, too, and Avila served me a strong cup of espresso to cap off my delicious meal. The service at Da Noi Restaurant was excellent. The staff was warm, friendly and efficient. Dishes were cleared as soon as each course was finished and my water glass was never empty. Even as I entered the dining room, Avila pulled my chair out for me and made me feel like a VIP. After my meal, I wanted to meet the person who created it, Chef Angelo Riva, who is also one of Da Noi Restaurant’s partners. I rarely do that, but I was so impressed by the food, I wanted to tell him personally how much I enjoyed his masterpieces. When I went online to check out Da Noi Restaurant’s website, I saw several rave reviews posted by others who dined there. “G.P.” of Bayonne posted this: “Probably the best restaurant in Bayonne.” “J.E.” of Hillsborough, New Jersey, had this to say about Da Noi: “Da Noi is fantastic! Every time we eat here I order something different and have yet to be disappointed. The Eggplant Rollitini is my favorite! ” And, “Argante” of Jersey City posted this rave: “I tried Da Noi the first day it opened and have been coming back ever since. When I can’t make it to the restaurant I order take out. Great service, great food, great ambience. The staff is friendly and so are the customers. I highly recommend Da Noi.” Da Noi offers off-premise catering and hosts on-site parties, which is great now that the holidays are approaching. Dine at Da Noi and you’re sure to enjoy incredible Italian cuisine at reasonable prices. Bring the family, your friends and for a romantic dining experience, bring your significant other. At Da Noi, amore is in the air and served with every dish.
Da Noi Restaurant 1105 Avenue “C” (corner 54th St) Bayonne, NJ 07002-3329 (201) 437-5578 www.danoirestaurant.com Hours: Mon through Thurs, 12 Noon-10 p.m.; Fri and Sat, 12 Noon-11 p.m.; Sun., 1 p.m-9 p.m.
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STARGAZINE
Stargazine Here ARIES (March 21Goes - April 19) Travel and the higher mind are all highlighted with the transiting Uranus in the 9th house. We’re not talking “Jerry Springer” like events but more spiritual transformation and visits to the world’s sacred grounds like Lourdes, Sedona, and my favorite, Roswell. No need to worry if you can’t physically travel you can reach these places without jet lag with your psyche or in your dreams; a touch of the mystical is yours.
TAURUS (April 20 - May 20) Your tenacity is one of your most valued characteristics unless you continue to stubbornly remain aboard a sinking ship. Look at your choices and cease to put in good energy after bad. Life has just given you a reprieve. The Universe, although kind, is uninterested on how you learn your lessons. Adjust your attitude so you don’t continue to have the hard knocks of the past. The choice is yours, choose well. GEMINI (May 21 - June 20) The 11th house governing friends, hopes, and wishes finds you changing course and following your deepest desires. You now accept the possibility that you can become the person of your childhood yearnings, a princess or prince living the life you had imagined so many years ago. Go forth with confidence but please dream big!! CANCER (June 21 - July 22) The best advice for the Cancer native is to not take life so seriously. It seems that the problems of our mundane existence have been given more importance in your life of late. There is a Russian proverb that states when all the work is done and everything is finished you can die. Life will have problems to resolve and it is an ongoing journey.Live, love, and laugh.
LEO (July 23 - Aug. 22) Mars in Leo at the ascendant indicate a renewal of spirit and focus and the physical energy to complete projects. Dynamic and positive changes abound and like a force of nature you clear away debris and rebuild your life. Great transformational personal power is now yours. VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept.22) The part of fortune indicates a relationship you thought was lost has returned and amends have been made. You now feel a part of a family and the hurtful past is now a distant memory. Hold back your natural tendency to critize because if a rift in this newly formed bond returns the connection will be lost forever. Thank the stars that you have been given another chance at friendship and love. LIBRA (Sept. 22 - Oct. 22) Once a year each sign begins a new phase in their lives. At the time of our birthdays the Sun returns to the exact degree and sign of our natal charts. This is the time of your solar return. A wave of planetary energy suggests that with the proper mindset this could very well be the best year of your life. Saturn will provide discipline and by maintaining a Venus and Jupiter thought pattern you will be dramatically surprised of your success. SCORPIO (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) One symbol of the Scorpio native is the Phoenix. This month rise above any negativity. Soar higher with your goals and sublimate your other archetype the Scorpion. Don’t allow anger and revenge to sully this absolute perfect energy that will propel you towards your highest achievements.
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Month of October 2011
by J. Banta Lewis
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) A zero degree Moon as we enter October cautions that emotional issues cannot be harnessed. The 5th house governing romantic relationships and children may find your stress level high. It will help to know that this energy is temporary and you return to your jovial and optimistic self before the end of the month. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) Changes are brewing around the work front. Like observing a wave in the distance and seeing it’s slow and at first, its imperceptible growth, you sense uneasiness. These pending upsets are unnerving, to say the least. A struggle for stability ensues and the Capricorn native asks for and receives what is needed Success is yours! Enjoy. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb 18) Neptune retrograde on the cusp between the 7th and 8th house indicates that you may have been unaware of some important facts about partners and/or inheritance This could simply be an misunderstanding of an at work insurance policy or as serious as a spouse who cut you out of their will. You are an Aquarian, don’t forget, so you will handle these issues with integrity and move on. PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 20) You are charming, bright, and mediumistic, this month you use your skills of enchantment to capture the job, love, or positive life situation that you desire. One word of caution, don’t allow negative people from the past to return and finish the job of upsetting your life. Your ruler, Neptune, at times clouds your vision and you always think the best of everyone even if they have hurt you in the past. Never again!! © STARGAZINE 2011 stargazine1@aol.com stargazingonline.com
J Banta Lewis Stargazing 709 Broadway At 32nd Street Since 1996 201-339-4555
Italia Restaurant Features the Best in Live Entertainment Italia Restaurant located at 275 Broadway in Bayonne is known throughout Hudson County for it’s fine Italian Cuisine and homemade style pizza. In the last few months it has gained a wonderful reputation for bringing into it’s doors some of the best live vocal group entertainment working today. We would venture to say the same kind of entertainment you would find at some of NYC’s best Super Clubs or in Atlantic City. Italia Restaurant owner Vincent Cantale believes in giving his customers a place where they can enjoy a wonderful meal, sit, relax, and watch a good live show with family and friends. As Vinny would explain it “There’s know where else in Hudson County you will find this kind of entertainment.
It’s like sitting in the Copa.” And he’s right about that. Just look at the line- up of live entertainment he has coming into his restaurant in the next 3 months. On December 10th he has the popular Doo-wop group “Kenny Vance and the Planotones” On new Year’s Eve he’s in negotiations to book Gary Lewis and The Playboys a multi-hit band from the late 1960s. Some of the local acts appearing at Italia is The Originals on October 29th, Parkside Symphony on November 19th, “A Sound Affair” on December 10th and on December 17th, “Just Friends.” If you are looking to dine out and be entertained than Italia is the place for you.
For more information and reservations call Italia at 201-858-9969
real estate VIEWS -Buying a fixer-upper? How to make the most of your remodel
W
(ARA) ith home prices and interest rates still low across the country, and inventories high, it’s a great time to be in the market for a fixer-upper. By buying a house that needs some work, you can achieve your dream home for less than you would probably pay for a move-in-ready abode. To ensure you’re making the most of your investment, however, it pays to take a look at your credit before you buy and begin your remodel. You’ll not only need credit to cover the purchase price of the house, but you’ll need it for renovation expenses as well. The first step you should take in your bid to buy a fixer-upper is to check your credit report and score. Websites like www.creditreport.com can help you
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understand your credit. Understanding your credit will help you know whether or not you can afford to buy a house that needs work and if you’ll be able to pay for the needed renovations. You should also carefully research what your options are for financing your remodel. Learn what your options are, from traditional fixed mortgages to home equity lines of credit, and decide before you buy which type of financing will be best for you. Getting a handle on your financing before you buy can help ensure you stay on budget when you’re in the middle of renovations. When you’ve got a clear picture of your credit status and financing options, you can start looking at fixer-uppers.
When you find a good prospect, have your remodeling contractor walk through the house with you so he can give you a rough estimate of what needs to be done and how much the work will cost. If you’re buying a house that’s in basically good condition but just looks dated, you’ll have to make some decisions about where to invest your money. Focus on improvements that will not only look good, but will also enhance the value of your home. Resources like Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report can give you a good idea of how much of your original investment you’ll recoup on different remodeling projects at the time of resale. Once you’ve signed all the paperwork and the house is yours, it’s time to get to work.
If you’re handy, you may be able to save money by doing some of the renovation work yourself. Projects like painting, adding crown molding and even putting down new flooring are well within the skills of most do-it-yourselfers. More complex projects like drywall, plumbing or electrical work may be best left to professionals. Whether you do the work yourself, or hire contractors, you’ll need to carefully manage all aspects of the renovation to ensure your remodel stays on budget. The excitement of remodeling a house into your dream home can make it easy to get carried away on spending. Keep in mind that remodeling estimates are just that - an estimate. The final tab is rarely exactly what your contractor predicted it would be. Build in at least 10 percent extra to cover emergency overruns, and avoid making any unnecessary changes to the plans while the project is underway.
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
Annette T. Rubin
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
Ph# 201-424-1182
Office –201-437-0411 808 Broadway, Bayonne (Betw. 36th & 37th Streets)
“When you love what you do...It shows”
NEW CONSTRUCTION 2 FAMILY HOMES These homes are generously sized, two family homes range from approx. 3,000 sq ft to more than 4,000 sq ft of living space - plus garage & driveway. They feature hardwood floors thru-out, total 6 BRs, 5 beautifully tiled baths, ground level Family room with sliding glass doors out to fenced yards, central A/C, & much more. Several of these fine homes are available – some are still in construction, so there’s time for you to select your favorite upgrades!
www.exitonthehudson.com
CUSTOM BUILT BRICK 2 FAMILY DOUBLE LOT UPTOWN BAYONNE
Rare opportunity! This home offers open layouts in both units, plus a wide, deep backyard, and a driveway to accommodate 3 or more vehicles. The updates to both the features & systems of the house, lovely hardwood floors, & very large semi-finished basement with full bath all add even more value. Call me for more information!
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