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INTRODUCTION Publishers Sharon & Steven Goldstein Associate Publisher Brandon Goldstein Executive Editor Justin Henry Davidson Design Director Evan Eagleson
eighty6 Marketing & Sales Linda Barba Amy Schwartz Contributing Writers Christopher Blake Julianne Cantarella Kate Cronauer Tara DeLorenzo Jay Eagleson Joseph Gratkowski Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo Christine Modica Richard Posluszny Edward Rifkin Brenda Rodeo Renee Sall Kaitlin Stansel
Find Us At www.talkofthetownmag.com
Talk of the Town is published by
www.BCTHEMAG.com For advertising and information, call 201-265-2286. Copyright 2014. All materials are the property of Bergen County the Magazine, LLC. and may not be copied or reproduced without written consent from the publishers.
4
HOLIDAY 2014
I
typically use this page to share with you my excitement for all of the amazing things going on in this magazine. Today, I wanted to write something different. I chose this:
Reflect. Reflect on the year that passed. Analyze it. Think about the ups and downs. Reflect on your mistakes, your failures, and your successes. If everything happens for a reason, what is it?
Learn. Learn what you could have done differently. Learn how you can become better at something. Learn to become a better person.
Dream. Dream for tomorrow and for the fortunes that await. Dream that next year will be better than the last.
Love. Love now and not later. Love the people who make you happy and the people who don’t. Each person has their own battle. Love them for it. Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season, Brandon Goldstein
www.snydersarno.com
S
nyder & Sarno, LLC is a law firm which continues to grow and provide exceptional service throughout New Jersey. Family Law attorneys and founding partners, Angelo Sarno and Edward S. Snyder, both of whom have been recognized among the finest family law practitioners in the state, have developed a successful team of attorneys with depth and expertise in the practice areas of Family Law, Personal Injury and Medical Malpractice. The firm is equipped with litigation and mediation teams, which create an excellent balance and offer a unique approach to handling challenging matters. Clients receive individualized service from these dedicated, experienced attorneys. In addition to the talent acquired over the years, Snyder & Sarno, LLC has expanded offices. In 2011, the Roseland law firm launched the opening of a second office in Somerville. John J. Trombadore of the firm handles arbitrations and mediation in the firm’s Somerville Office. The firm’s expansion also included the addition of the Honorable Thomas P. Zampino, a retired a family part judge of twenty years with the Superior Court, Essex County. Judge Zampino serves as of counsel for the firm, providing mediation and arbitration services in each of the firm’s offices. The firm’s growth continued in 2013 when Snyder & Sarno, LLC announced the opening of a third office in Bergen County, welcoming Joseph V. Maceri as managing partner. The office is conveniently located in the prestigious Court Plaza Building, opposite the Bergen County Courthouse in Hackensack. Mr. Maceri has extensive knowledge and experience in the field of family law and has focused his career on providing extraordinary service, which most often exceeded client expectations. He has great compassion for his clients while aggressively acting on their behalf as their advocate. Mr. Maceri is listed New Jersey Super Lawyers-Rising Stars published by Thomson Reuters as a family law attorney. He is listed as Top 40 under 40 by the National Trial Lawyers and Top 40 under 40 by NJBIZ. Mr. Maceri was also recognized as a recipient of Who’s Who among Italian American Professionals for his outstanding service to the community. Mr. Maceri is a barrister for the Barry Croland Northern New Jersey Family Inn of Court and volunteers as an expert panelist for the Bergen and Passaic County Superior Courts for the Early Settlement Programs. Mr. Maceri’s expertise in matrimonial law combined with his continued success fits the criteria of this already established firm. If you need help with your divorce or family law matter, contact Joseph V. Maceri, Esq. at jmaceri@snydersarno.com or visit the firm’s website, www.snydersarno.com, for more information about this premier law firm.
ROSELAND
425 Eagle Rock Avenue Floor 2 Roseland, NJ 07068 PH: (973) 274-5200 FX: (973) 274-5202
HACKENSACK
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CONTENTS
HOLIDAY 2014 8
Man On A Mission
12
Another Year, Another Dollar
16
18 22 28 30
34 36 40 50
Bernard Kerik was once New York City’s top cop. Now he’s an ex-con and he wants to reform our criminal justice system
Sticking with your financial resolutions
Dating Someone New This Holiday Season?
It can be tricky to navigate your way through the holiday season if you’re in the early stages of dating. Check out these guidelines. There’s no need to make things awkward
Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge
76 78
Exercising vs. Training
Exercise works for beginners, but it only gets you so far
The Porsche Macan
A sports car disguised as an SUV
84
What to Watch For
86
The Gentlemen’s Guide to Gifts
Harry Winston Project Z8
All the things you didn’t need until now
100 Succulent, Sleek and Certified Kosher
A safe haven for our four-legged friends
Located just steps from the New York Stock Exchange, Reserve Cut is the ultimate setting for those looking to enjoy a kosher steak in style
Mike Duch
Purveyor of fine puffs
102 Central Heating
Give the Gift of Grooming
How do you purchase presents for all the different men in your life? Read on, and get them on the path to facial fortitude
Back On the Court of Life
Dwaine Harris is lucky to be alive. After a lengthy struggle with addiction, the former high school basketball star and talent manager has his life back in order
Damn, It’s Cold
Winter whiskey cocktails to warm you up
106 A Recipe for Success
This year, Big Jim’s Pizzeria in New Milford will celebrate its 40th anniversary
108 A Slice of History
Elmwood Park’s Pizza Town U.S.A. has been around since 1958 but this Jersey institution never gets old
110 Local Brews
Are ice dams harming your home?
Charity Guide
A small, select list of the many charitable foundations working to make each day better for so many people
The tri-state area is home to some great breweries. Take a tour and sip something new this season
112 When It’s Chilly, We Make Chili
Whip up a pot of something special this winter
Style Guide
115 Why We Love It
Looks for the fashionable man
Fast Food Pizza
Your Inbox To-Do List
Mailbox is the perfect app for staying on top of your emails
8
30
THE GENTLEMEN’S GUIDE TO
40
78
EATING & DRINKING PAGE I00
6
HOLIDAY 2014
Proving every day that “impossible” is just an opinion.
At Hackensack University Medical Center we’ve designed an environment that allows medical innovation to flourish. By recruiting top doctors and giving them the freedom to push research and treatments beyond traditional thinking. And creating an entire campus of care with building after building to take on everything from cancer and heart disease to neurological disorders. This is a place where people turn when they need a physician who is driven to make the impossible, possible. Discover how one of the nation’s top 50 hospitals can help you at HackensackUMC.org. To find a doctor call 855-996-WELL (9355).
® 2011 Hackensack University Medical Center
Man on a Mission Bernard Kerik was once New York City’s top cop. Now he’s an ex-con and he wants to reform our criminal justice system. WRITTEN BY
JESSICA HUMPHREY-CINTINEO
“I
8
HOLIDAY 2014
Continued on pg. 10
HOLIDAY 2014
9
Man on a Mission Continued from pg. 9
10
HOLIDAY 2014
Your Key to a
healthy heart
is a FREE Heart Screening Prevention is at the heart of staying healthy. This comprehensive and noninvasive evaluation by a board-certified Advanced Practice Nurse helps detect your potential risk for heart disease so you can take steps toward prevention.
Call 201-447-8535 for more information or to schedule your screening. FREE Heart Screening includes: ● ● ●
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Pulse assessments including carotid and peripheral pulses
Blood glucose evaluation
Limited neurological assessment
Ankle-brachial index
Reynold’s Risk Score
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ANOTHER YEAR,
Another Dollar WRITTEN BY
EDWARD RIFKIN
Sticking with Your Financial Resolutions
Continued on pg. 14
12
HOLIDAY 2014
ANOTHER YEAR,
Another Dollar
Continued from pg. 12
14
HOLIDAY 2014
Where We Define Value and Exceed Your Expectations
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HOLIDAY 2014
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Ramapo-Bergen
Animal Refuge A Safe Haven for Our Four-Legged Friends As seen in the holiday issue of BC the Mag WRITTEN BY
KAITLIN STANSEL
R
Continued on pg. 20
HOLIDAY 2014
19
Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge A Safe Haven for Four-Legged Friends Continued from pg. 19
Bergen County’s
PREMIER Auto Repair Center
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Certifications
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I- CAR ALLDATA HOLIDAY 2014
AASP
Mercedes-Benz (qualified) Wreckmasters
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Mike
Duch Purveyor of Fine Puffs WRITTEN BY
BRANDON GOLDSTEIN
T Continued on pg. 24
22
HOLIDAY 2014
Pictures by Patrick Barnett
Mike
Duch Continued from pg. 22
Continued on pg. 26
Mike and Chef Aldo Cascio
24
HOLIDAY 2014
VISIT SALLAURETTA.COM
Give the Gift of Style
OFFERING EXCLUSIVE PERSONAL SHOPPING AND FREE GIFT WRAPPING 621 Godwin Avenue Midland Park, NJ 07432
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Mike
Duch Continued from pg. 24
26
HOLIDAY 2014
Mike
Duch
New Jersey’s Premiere Construction Company
C
unningham Const. Co. has been involved in all aspects of construction from multi-family developments including town homes and condominiums, restaurants, catering venues, car dealerships and country clubs since 2000. We take projects from planning and design to completion. We pride our selves on quality, service and relationships. That’s why we are north jerseys premiere construction company.
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HOLIDAY 2014
27
Give the Gift of
Grooming
How do you purchase presents for all the different men in your life? Read on, and get them on the path to facial fortitude WRITTEN BY
W
28
HOLIDAY 2014
CHRISTINE MODICA
HOLIDAY 2014 29
Back On the
Court of Life Dwaine Harris is lucky to be alive. After a lengthy struggle with addiction, the former high school basketball star and talent manager has his life back in order. WRITTEN BY
RENEE SALL
D
30
HOLIDAY 2014
Continued on pg. 32
Dwaine Harris with the ban
d “Six Stories Told”
HOLIDAY 2014
31
Back On the
Court of Life Continued from pg. 31
A message from our Founder:
I am often asked why we sell Zounds® Hearing aids for so much less than other premium brands. Charging less for a superior product is unheard of these days, and as consumers, we are accustomed to paying more for better quality. Over the years, my wife and I bought a number of high priced hearing aids, searching in vain for the one that would really help our little girl. I have met a number of adults who would not spend “that kind of money” on themselves, and so they purchase cheap amplification devices or go without. This experience has provided the direction for my company. The goal of Zounds® Hearing is to provide the best quality hearing aids with the most innovative technology at the lowest prices we possibly can. The dedicated professionals at your local Zounds® Hearing Center are all committed to this shared goal. Sincerely, Sam Thomasson, Founder and CEO
Zounds® Founder and CEO, Sam Thomasson and his daughter, Kate
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HOLIDAY 2014
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34
BRENDA RODEO
HOLIDAY 2014
Gift baskets and Custom Cookies for Christmas, Hanukkah and all Special Occasions
The Tower includes an assortment of all natural cookies, chocolates, truffles and more.
Bridal Shower and Wedding Favors Personalized Custom Designed Cookies and Cakes Cookies and Cakes for all Occasions Corporate Logos and Gifts Gourmet Cookies and Treats by the Pound New All Natural Dog Cookies Phone: (201) 888-2222 Email: wekneadthedoughcookies@gmail.com
www.wekneadthedoughcookies.com HOLIDAY 2014 35
CHARITY GUIDE
T
he hustle and bustle of daily life can sometimes make us lose sight of what is truly important. It’s the holiday season that provides us with that annual reminder to come back down to Earth. While surrounded by our family and friends, we reflect on the great times we spent together in the past, and revel in the traditions that will keep us close many years into the future. The holiday season has also become synonymous with giving. Each year, millions of people open their hearts, and their wallets, for causes that affect some deeply, and others not at all. Our extraordinary charitable generosity is just another trait that distinguishes Americans from so much of the rest of the world. As we volunteer our time, or donate to those who need it the most, we help shape and change the lives of people we may never even meet. Here, we provide a small, select list of the many charitable foundations working to make each day better for so many people. It is our hope you will be inspired by one or more of them to offer them your support.
Urology Care Foundation Focus: Urologic diseases Website: www.urologyhealth.org The Urology Care Foundation is the nation’s leading urologic health charity, promoting research, advocacy and education in an effort to ultimately cure urologic diseases. Now, if you’re a little unclear about exactly what urology is, don’t be ashamed. Urology deals with more than just the diseases of the male and female urinary tract; it also focuses on the male reproductive organs so you can rejoice in the knowledge that someone is looking after you-know-what. The Urology Care Foundation is a premier and mainstream organization involved across the whole spectrum of urology advocacy. One of its key areas of advocacy is expressed in its “Let Your Voice Be Heard” campaign, which urges the public to press Congress to support the Training and Research in Urology (TRU) Act.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Focus: Helping all children achieve success in life Website: www.bbbsnj.org The mission of this organization is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever.
36
HOLIDAY 2014
200 Club of Bergen County Focus: Law enforcement, fire and EMS workers Website: www.200club.org The 200 Club of Bergen County is committed to supporting, both financially and emotionally, Bergen County Law Enforcement, Fire and EMS personnel and their families in the event of death or serious injury in the line of duty. The organization also provides support in the form of scholarships and special needs appropriations to agencies that serve and protect Bergen County communities.
Diabetes Research Institute Foundation Focus: Diabetes Website: www.diabetesresearch.org The largest and most comprehensive diabetes research center dedicated to curing diabetes, the DRI is aggressively working to shrink the timeline toward the discovery of a biological cure for this disease. Multidisciplinary teams of scientists, together with international collaborators, are bridging cell-based therapies with emerging technologies to restore insulin production in patients with diabetes.
Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County Focus: Affordable housing for needy families Website: www.habitatbergen.org Its mission is to provide decent, affordable homes for hardworking Bergen County families. The organization joins in a common goal with other affiliates of this international organization to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness from the face of the earth by working in partnership with people in need. Using volunteer labor and donated funds and materials, Habitat builds or rehabilitates simple, decent, homes and sells them to low-income families at cost but with no interest charged. Habitat is a people-to-people partnership, which joins everyone together regardless of race, nationality, religion or socioeconomic status.
Continued on pg. 38
HOLIDAY 2014
37
CHARITY GUIDE Continued from pg. 37
Homes Fit for Heroes Focus: War veterans Website: www.homesfitforheroes.net The group was founded on the following principles: that as Americans we have a duty to support those that fight with honor and make sacrifices to protect the freedoms that we so often take for granted; that there is no greater honor than to extend a hand to a wounded soldier and his family; that if we want the United States of America to be the greatest country in the world we too need to sacrifice and be custodians of freedom. Accordingly, the Homes Fit for Heroes Foundation was established to provide wounded Special Operations warriors with shelter from the storm allowing them to recover from their injuries with the comfort, dignity and respect they deserve.
Sean Kimerling Testicular Cancer Foundation (SKTCF) Focus: Testicular cancer Website: www.seankimerling.org Established in memory of Sean Kimerling, an Emmy Award-winning anchor of CW11 sports and pre-game announcer for the New York Mets whose life was cut stark short in his prime, the SKTCF is dedicated to raising awareness of testicular cancer and highlighting the importance of self-examination. The Foundation has received praise for its unique social marketing approaches, including some pretty hilarious viral videos (type “Check your balls” in YouTube for further clarification). The message is clear and simple: No man should die from testicular cancer. Perform self-examinations often and get over the stigma of seeing your doctor. It might just save your life.
Zero Focus: Prostate cancer Website: www.zerocancer.org ZERO, The Project to End Prostate Cancer, takes a hard stance on prostate cancer; hence the name. The idea: ZERO means zero prostate cancer deaths, zero prostate cancer cases and for those with the disease, a zero PSA. With its hard-line message comes aggressive campaigning, which includes ZERO’s Drive Against Prostate Cancer campaign, the only national mobile screening program for prostate cancer. Be sure to keep your eye out for the ZERO Drive vehicles; they’re sleek 39-foot mobile screening buses offering no-appointment prostate screening exams. Best of all: The Drive buses feature flat-screen TVs with satellite cable for your viewing pleasure while you wait. It’s the only way to go!
38
HOLIDAY 2014
The best care, from our family to yours. We could tell you about our award-winning centers, our state-of-the-art programs and our 9 convenient locations throughout Bergen and Passaic counties. But at CareOne, we know what really matters:
compassionate people delivering the best care. Featuring:
Short-Stay Rehabilitation
Memory Care
Long-Term Care
Respite Care
Assisted Living
Hospice Care
To find a location near you, call toll-free 877-99-CARE1 • visit www.care-one.com
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STYLE GUIDE Location: Private residence, Franklin Lakes Photographer: Bill Streicher Hair: Roseanna Nicole Gallo and Jennie Vergara, Eric Alt Salon, Ho-Ho-Kus, Saddle River, Wood-Ridge Makeup: Cori Colonna Leontaris Stylist: Rumilda Ramos Models: Doug & Mark All clothing available at Sal Lauretta for Men, Midland Park
Doug: Canali Exclusive Super 150s wool suit Canali shirt, tie, and pocket square Edward Armah lapel flower
Mark: Hickey Freeman suit Hugo Boss shirt Dion pocket square and tie Edward Armah lapel flower Canali belt
Mark: Hugo Boss jacket and shirt Italo Ferretti pocket square Zanella pants
Doug: Tallia Orange jacket with suede collar and wool vest Eton shirt Edward Armah tie and lapel flower Canali pocket square Canali pants
Mark: Tallia Orange double-breasted pea coat Canali sport shirt Psycho Bunny scarf Adriano Goldschmied distressed denim
Doug: Eton flannel shirt Edward Armah knit tie Joe’s Jeans red cords Robert Graham belt and shoes
Doug: Bugatchi tech-inspired sweater Robert Graham shirt Adriano Goldschmied black denim
Mark: Circle of Gentlemen jacket with suede piping and zipper bib insert Bugatchi shirt and knit tie Adriano Goldschmied 5-pocket cords
Mark: Thaddeus quilted vest Sand shirt 7 for All Mankind luxe performance coated denim jeans
Doug: Bugatchi merino wool zip cardigan with leather trim Circle of Gentlemen shirt Alberto navy twill jeans
Your Inbox To-Do List Mailbox is the perfect app for staying on top of your emails WRITTEN BY
What Is It?
Mailbox is an easy-to-use email app for your iPhone, iPad, Android, and Mac that keeps you organized. It turns your inbox into an actionable to-do list that you’ll actually want to open up and use.
What Makes It Unique?
First and foremost, Mailbox is very simple to use. From the moment you load the app, you’ll notice its minimalist look and feel. Of course, you’ll have all of the
basic features of an email app like reading and replying to messages, but Mailbox takes organization even further. Think of each email as a “to-do.” You have the option of reading that email, replying to it, deleting it, or saving it for later. Mailbox couldn’t make those scenarios any easier to execute. I find myself consistently saving emails for later. This comes in handy if you are waiting on information before you can provide an answer. Simply swipe it for tomorrow and at 9 a.m. that email pops back in
Top 5 Features 1. Mailbox helps you quickly get to inbox zero. 2. It keeps your inbox organized with only relevant emails for that moment.
3. It can snooze an email so it comes back to your inbox at the time you need it.
4. Mailbox can automatically sort all of your emails
into lists so you can go and check them when you want without cluttering your inbox.
5. Mailbox syncs across all of your devices. If you
have an Android, iPad, and a Mac, you will always be looking at the same inbox messages.
Why Should You Download It Right Now?
Mailbox is super simple to set up and use on a daily basis. If that’s not enough, how about this: It’s free! If you want to feel more organized and less overwhelmed by your inbox, you can’t beat that price.
What Devices and Mail Clients Does Mailbox Support?
Mailbox is available now in the App Store for iPhone and iPad, and the Google Play store for Android. The app works with Gmail, Google Apps, and iCloud accounts. Mailbox for Mac is currently in public beta. To sign up for Mailbox, visit mailboxapp.com/#download.
50
HOLIDAY 2014
JAY EAGLESON
your inbox. It’s that easy. You can perform the following with just a swipe on the message: Archive Save it to a list Save it for a later time (later today, later in the evening, tomorrow, the weekend, next week, later in the month, or any date of your choosing) Delete
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nantucket hermès, the alchemist of time, introduces the nantucket, a radiant watch that captures light to bring a special glow to your wrist. it blithely adapts to its wearer’s whims thanks to its interchangeable strap. yet it remains forever elegant, slender and playful, revelling in the passing of time rather than fearing it, thanks to its case fashioned in silver , a silver alloy exclusive to hermès.
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278 RIVER STREET • HACKENSACK, NJ 07601 SERVICE DEPARTMENT OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
www.toyotaofhackensack.com
Exercising vs. Training Exercise works for beginners, but it only gets you so far WRITTEN BY
M
CHRISTOPHER BLAKE
ost gym-goers exercise, regardless of their source of motivation. This is what the fitness magazines, infomercials, newspapers, and celebrity doctors all tell us to do. You show up for 30 minutes, walk on the treadmill, move some stuff around, work on your “core” a little bit, get your heart rate up, sweat, shower, and leave. Clock in, clock out. Rinse and repeat. Exercise is unstructured physical activity with no specific or long-term performance goal. These workouts don’t fit into a larger plan. Exercise is done for that short-term, immediate “feel-good” sensation during and after the workout. The harder workouts are about feeling the “burn” or feeling completely “spent.” However, these harder workouts don’t take additional program variables like nutrition and sleep into consideration. Exercising works for a short period of time. Any type of physical activity will stimulate an adaptation and yield results for a deconditioned novice no matter how random and unstructured the workout. It makes sense. Before you were doing nothing and now you are doing something. Something is more than nothing, so you will see and feel some results. This is precisely the reason why there are so many silly products, fitness videos and gimmicks marketed to the rank beginner that
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Left: One of the many reasons the barbell is an extremely useful implement for strength training is due to its capacity to be incrementally loaded over time as strength increases. Right: Pushing a sled or prowler across the floor is a brutally effective and unforgiving tool for training aerobic capacity.
claim to get you in shape. The truth is that if you are just starting out, anything and everything works—for a while. If you’re looking for continued progress that goes beyond those initial results, you need to learn how to craft and plan your workouts. You need to start training. Training is structured physical activity with a focus on a long-term goal. Each workout is part of a larger framework and is designed to stimulate a specific adaptation in order to progress you one step closer to that goal, regardless of how you feel during or after the workout. Training is a methodical, quantifiable and progressive process. Most importantly, a properly designed and conducted training program exploits the fact that we as human beings are like any other living organism on the planet in the sense that our bodies respond to a stress, recovery and adaptation model. Pioneered by physician and endocrinologist Hans Selye, the “General Adaptation Syndrome” is the theory that shaped our current understanding of physical and mental stress and its effects on the human body. The most relevant of its principles is that stress is a nocuous and potentially deadly agent whose sub-lethal doses allow for the body to progressively build up resistance to said doses. In other words, with repeated exposure to an appropriately applied stress, the body adapts to tolerate that stress. When exposed to
too little, too insignificant, or too infrequent a stress, the body cannot build a tolerance to it. If the exposure to the stress is excessive due to its intensity or frequency, the body will not recover properly, and the result will be injury, or worse! Why is this important to understand? For starters, it may help determine how you spend your time in the gym. For instance, when you lift a weight over your head for “X” number of repetitions and for “X” number of sets, your body will quickly adapt to that specific stress, assuming that you get enough sleep and eat the right foods, and assuming that the exercise is executed with perfect technique for every repetition. Subsequent workouts need to force the body to adapt to a slightly more challenging stress, otherwise repeating the same exact workout week after week will only maintain your current fitness levels, rather than improve them. Thanks to Dr. Selye, we know that in order to continually elicit a physiological adaptation, every variable of your workout should be planned before you step foot into the gym. You need to plan everything from the type of exercises to the number of repetitions, and the time spent resting between sets. Every variable is chosen for a specific purpose determined by your specific goal, and you should also know how to manipulate those variables for continued progress. A successful training pro-
gram isn’t determined by how “gassed” or “fried” you feel after the workout, or even how sore you feel the following day. A successful training program is determined by its ability to continually stimulate a physiological adaptation every time you complete the workout as it is written for that particular day.
Is Training Right for Me?
For many individuals, exercising might be enough. A general increase in physical activity from a sedentary lifestyle can lead to numerous basic health benefits, and there is nothing wrong with simply maintaining those benefits. However, if you have a performance-related goal, whether it is to compete in the next Olympic Games, or to pick up the groceries without back pain, you need to train. If your doctor tells you that you need stronger bones, you need to train. If you want to walk up a flight of stairs without having to catch your breath, you need to train. If you decide you want to be stronger or look stronger, you need to train. If you no longer see or feel progress from your time and effort spent at the gym, you need to train. Christopher Blake is the Personal Training Manager at HNH Fitness. If you are interested in learning more, contact HNH Fitness at (201) 262-4626. Leave your name and phone number with the front desk and he will contact you as soon as possible.
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The
Porsche Macan
A Sports Car Disguised as an SUV WRITTEN BY
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RICHARD POSLUSZNY
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Current healthcare mandates do very little to distinguish between physicians. No cookie cutters here. Just the top guns. The Vanguard Surgical Center is a state of the art multi-specialty surgical facility located in Maywood, NJ. In response to our rapidly changing healthcare landscape and the Affordable Care Act, several prominent subspecialty surgeons envisioned a place where innovative surgical care could be delivered by an outstanding cadre of surgical specialists alongside hand-picked anethesiologists, nurses and support staff. We are doctor owned and operated and only the most highly skilled surgeons with impeccable judgment can obtain surgical priviledges to operate at Vanguard. We invite you to become part of a level of surgical care which is indeed transformative and will serve as the model in an area of healthcare reform. Â
p 201 291 9100 113 W. Essex St., Maywood, NJ 07607 www.VanguardSurgicalCenter.com
WHAT TO WATCH FOR Harry Winston Project Z8
I
n 1989, Harry Winston began its foray into creating fine timepieces following years of being known as the premier brand for exceptional jewels. Fast-forward to 2007, and the brand opened up a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Geneva, the watchmaking capital of the world. It was here where Harry Winston’s watchmaking division committed itself to the same quality and standards found only in this Swiss watchmaking enclave and where Harry Winston perfected Project Z. Launched in 2004, Harry Winston Project Z was developed as a limited-edition series of unique timepieces that combined high technological innovation with a fine watchmaking tradition. In this modern mix of rugged aesthetics and refined mechanics, the bold case design is paired with finely tuned movements to create the ultimate sports watch feel. The series was instrumental in revolutionizing Harry Winston timepieces and introduced an exclusive new material to the watchmaking industry called Zalium. Used primarily in aeronautical engineering, the hypoallergenic zirconium-based alloy has allowed for the creation of watches with ultimate durability. Zalium is extremely resistant
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to corrosion, and Harry Winston is the only brand that utilizes the ultra-light metal in its watchmaking. Presented during Baselworld 2014, Project Z8 is the newest iteration of the brand’s unique Project Z line, which is part of Harry Winston’s Ocean Collection. Project Z8 is powered by a mechanical automatic-winding Dual Time movement—a grand classic from Harry Winston. This caliber serves to display the time in both the local and reference time. It is distinguished by a clear separation between the various functions: an excentered hour/minute display at 1 O’Clock; a day/night indicator at 3 O’Clock; as well as the Shuriken, the signature of all Project Z watches which serves as a movement operating indicator and a pointer-type date display. The center features a retrograde dual-time display fitted with an anodized aluminum hand with an elaborately curved and completely three-dimensional design that required considerable ingenuity to create. One particular technical development makes the Project Z8 truly unique. The retrograde dual-time display that can generally only be adjusted clockwise can be turned in both directions
via the additional clutch system of this crown-operated function. This device considerably facilitates and accelerates the adjustment process. Comprising of 281 components, 32 jewels, a flat silicon balance spring and a newly designed white gold open-worked oscillating weight, this sophisticated caliber is a testament to fine workmanship, which extends all the way through to its circular Côtes de Genève motif. Exuding a bold and powerful aesthetic, the Z8 features a 44-millimeter diameter case and the three-dimensional dials. The zone corresponding to the reference time is composed of seven superimposed appliques, while the GMT zone consists of five elements interlocked in a stunning construction affording a maximum of depth and transparency. The finish on the Z8 is worth noting as well. It has a satin finish on the upper surface with a micro-blasted zone on the lower sides as well as around the edge of the case. A limited edition of 300 pieces, Project Z8 is shown on a black rubber strap bearing a Clou de Paris hobnail motif and secured by a Zalium ardillon buckle. For more information on Project Z8, visit The Timepiece Collection at 58 E. Palisade Avenue in Englewood.
2015 Wishes All of Our Readers
A Happy New Year Proud Publishers of
&
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THE GENTLEMEN’S
GUIDE TO GIFTS
Dear Santa, I have been a very good boy this year. I have remained gainfully employed. I did every chore my wife asked me to do, and I even picked up my mother-in-law from the airport…twice! I haven’t written to you in a while. You see, as I’ve gotten older, my belief in you has waned. As a proud father and the main provider for my family, I’m often tasked with being Santa Claus in my household. Blasphemous, I know. Yet, despite the joy of seeing my family happy, what have I received from these responsibilities? I have been relegated to one notch above the naughty list. It’s the same gifts every year: new socks and a tie or two. It’s hard to even fake a smile about the socks, and truth be told, I haven’t worn a single tie my kids have ever picked out for me. I guess we can just assume that no passionate fan of Justin Bieber or One Direction has the taste to pick out a nice tie. I digress. Santa, I have done what you’ve expected of me. Now, my only hope is that you will return the favor. Attached is my holiday wish list. Sincerely, Man with too many ugly ties
Quadrofoil Personal Watercraft The Quadrofoil is an electric hydrofoiling personal watercraft. It doesn’t produce any waves or emissions, and has a top speed of 25 miles per hour and a range of 54 nautical miles. Quadrofoil.com.
Great American Flask This solid copper flask is 100% hand-built by red-blooded, whiskey-lovin’ American workers. Jacobbromwell.com.
The Homemade Gin Kit Turn your generic vodka into delicious gin with ease. Wandpdesign.com.
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Minipresso Bring that espresso you love to the places you hate. Wacaco.com.
Trion Nemesis ER A 1,200 horsepower, American-made, hybrid supercar. Need I say more? Trionsupercars.com.
2015 Audi R8 Competition The R8 Competition features a 570 horsepower, 5.2-liter V10 engine that goes from 0-60 in 3.2 seconds. With a top speed of 199 m.p.h., this is the fastest R8 ever offered. Audiusa.com.
The MVP Model 3 A perfect cross between an airplane and a bass fishing boat—the combination everyone was waiting for! Mvp.aero.
American Flag Pocket Square Perfect for politicians and people who actually love America, too! Bedfordandbroome.com.
Yellowood Half Hatchet Men need pretty hatchets. Yellowoodesign.com.
Grayl Water Filtration Cup Do you have any idea what’s in our water, Santa?! Me either. Thegrayl.com.
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Studebaker Metals Cuffs Finally something a man can wear around his wrist other than a watch. Studebakermetals.com.
Studebaker Metals Handmade Silver & Brass Safety Razor When I shave, I want to feel like I’m doing it in the 1920s. Studebakermetals.com.
Oliberte Boots Oliberté boots are handmade at the company’s factory in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia—the world’s only Fair Trade Certified footwear factory. Oliberte.com.
Killspencer Indoor Mini Basketball Kit I’m a kid in a man’s body. Now I can mini-dunk—on a 24-karat “Conflict-Free” gold-plated rim. Killspencer.com.
Bush Smarts Trail Hammock You never know where you will be when you need to take a nap. Bushsmarts.com.
Bush Smarts Bush Knife So pretty—in a very rustic, rough, ugly kind of way. Bushsmarts.com.
Baxter of California Scented Candles It’ll smell like I cut lumber all day, while I was really just lying on my couch all day. Baxterofcalifornia.com.
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Baxter of California Shave 1.2.3. Kit Plain and simple: The right shaving products help reduce irritation, which makes you feel better about yourself. This makes you less irritated. It’s a vicious smooth cycle. Baxterofcalifornia.com.
Baxter of California Hair Essentials Kit My hair has feelings too! Baxterofcalifornia.com.
Karas Kustoms Bolt-Brass Pen This bolt-action pen is made from solid brass. The Bolt is extremely durable and may be the last pen you ever have to buy—assuming you don’t lose it. Karaskustoms.com.
Karas Kustoms Ink Fountain Pen Even hipsters aren’t too vintage for fountain pens. Karaskustoms.com.
U-Boat Worx C-Explorer 3 Submarine Can you think of a better way to hide from the wife and kids? Uboatworx.com.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams Pint Club Every three months, I’ll receive three pints of Jeni’s crazy flavors, such as “Triumph,” a sophisticated blend of absinthe, orange and meringues. Jenis.com.
Cocoon Smart Home Security System Cocoon learns the daily rhythms of a user’s home and uses its groundbreaking technology to detect intruders—and it’s only the size of a tennis ball. It can even send alerts straight to your smartphone to notify you of unusual activity so you can take action and feel safe. Cocoon.life.
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Kaleidescape Cinema One Download Blu-ray quality movies and store all the ones you already have. Essentially, it’s a hard drive for hi-def movie lovers. Kaleidescape.com.
Schiller X1 Water Bike Biking on land is so 2010. Schillerbikes.com.
Joey Roth Ceramic Speakers Beautifully designed with outrageous sound and Bluetooth. Joeyroth.com.
Cut Maps Laser-cut from all kinds of materials ranging from stainless steel to oak. No city is too big or too small. Cutmaps.com.
Misc. Goods Co. Ceramic Flask Flasks are cool. Misc-goods-co.myshopify.com.
2015 Porsche Panamera Turbo S Executive The most badass station wagon‌ever. Porsche.com.
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Plastc Card Simplify your wallet. Plastc takes all of your credit cards, debit cards, loyalty cards and gift cards and combines them into just one piece of plastic, complete with e-ink, pin security, and a smartphone app to monitor and track it all. Plastc.com.
Renovo Coupe The first all-electric American supercar will get you from 0-60 in 3.4 seconds. It’s also one of the most gorgeous cars you will ever—or never—lay eyes on. Only 100 will be produced. Renovomotors.com.
Relonch Camera Attach the camera using the lightning port already on your iPhone. Then, take DSLR-quality shots and share them instantly with no hassle. Relonch.com.
Ronin Motorworks Motorcycle Want to ride something that will turn heads, and not just for the obnoxious amount of noise it produces? These limited-production motorcycles are designed at the Ronin Motorworks factory in Denver and they are some of the sleekest motorcycles you will ever see. The47.com.
Yeti Coolers We all beat up on our coolers way too much. The Yeti fights back. With over twice the insulation compared to your rinky-dink cooler, the Yeti keeps your ice frozen longer. Yeticoolers.com.
The Big Lebowski Pinball Machine Who doesn’t love pinball, dude? Thebiglebowskipinball.com.
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
NitroBrew The introduction of nitrogen into a draft beer is easily one of the best things to happen to beer, and NitroBrew has taken that process into the home. Any beer will have a completely new and fresh taste with the addition of nitrogen. Each kit includes a NitroBrew kettle, a charger, and an air compressor. NitroBrew.com.
Nisolo Shoes Men can have a shoe collection too, right? Nisolo.com.
Filson Bags What else will I use to carry all of my new presents? Filson.com.
Succulent, Sleek
and Certified Kosher Located just steps from the New York Stock Exchange, Reserve Cut is the ultimate setting for those looking to enjoy a kosher steak in style WRITTEN BY
JUSTIN HENRY DAVIDSON
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WRITTEN BY
JOSEPH “WHISKY JOE” GRATKOWSKI
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A Recipe
for Success This year, Big Jim’s Pizzeria in New Milford will celebrate its 40th anniversary WRITTEN BY
B
TARA DeLORENZO
ruce Giumarra and “Big Jim” Mahaffey graduated high school without knowing what to do next. They started working at Angelo’s Pizzeria in Maywood, and after learning the ins and outs of making pies for a few years, the two 21-year-olds risked it all and opened Big Jim’s Pizzeria in New Milford back in 1974. Restaurants come and go, but Big Jim’s is a Bergen County mainstay. The two youngsters are all grown up now, and after 40 years, Big Jim’s is still serving up quality food to hungry and happy Bergenites. Back in the day, Bergen County didn’t have many pizza places. Opening up Big Jim’s was a huge leap of faith for the dynamic duo. Since it first opened decades ago, Giumarra and Mahaffey have grown a successful business built on family, community, tradition, high-quality products, customer service and great food. “What was able to make this place so successful was that there weren’t many places that offered the same things that are here, such as hot home delivery, catering, and just providing a good quality product—that’s one of the most important parts,” said Chris Giumarra, the manager of Big Jim’s and the son of co-owner Bruce. “Anyone can open up a pizza place,
but if you don’t have the right product, you’re not going to have quality customers, either. So they put all of that together and that’s what made them so successful. And they’re hard-working guys. I can only imagine when they first started the amount of hours it took and the hard work that it took to get the business running. It’s a very big commitment.” Making a quality product also takes talent. Bruce and Big Jim’s combined efforts were another major contributor to the success of the restaurant. According to Chris, his father was an aggressive businessman who knew how to think outside the box. He handled the business end of things. Jim was more of the pizza guy. He wrote the recipes, ordered the right products, and just made some really spectacular pies. It’s the old saying that two heads are better than one. “They had an understanding of what each job was and what they needed to do and I think that’s what made the store what it is today. But at the same time, there is a little bit of luck in everything,” Chris said. The innovative tag team behind Big Jim’s Pizzeria has driven this successful business that only continues to grow. Today, the business includes hot home delivery, catering services, the restaurant itself, and pizza trucks. These trucks span 13 towns in Bergen County and cover all sorts of ground from Hackensack and Emerson to Paramus. Over the years, Big Jim’s has remained committed to using
high-quality products. For instance, they purchase chopped meat for homemade meatballs and hamburgers from a butcher right next door. It’s more than just its expansive services and fresh ingredients that keep customers coming back to Big Jim’s. You will find a different atmosphere at this pizzeria, and it’s due in no small part to its dedicated and passionate employees. Unlike many other restaurants that keep three or four staff members on each night, Big Jim’s has up to 20-25 workers at a time some nights. The business is based on volume and Big Jim’s food is in such high demand so the collaborative efforts of this large team help to keep things moving smoothly. The employees are very much a part of the pizzeria’s strong tradition. “At least five of them here have been here at least 35-plus years. Jim and Bruce are a great group of guys to work for. They care about their employees and they take care of their employees. It takes a lot of people to make that work. It’s a big team effort between everyone,” Chris explained. “If you want to pump out the volume, you need to have the workers in order for it to not turn into a train wreck where it’s a mess. You have to make sure everything goes out how the customer wants it and to do that you need the right employees, so it has to be people who are knowledgeable about the business, and you need to have the manpower to do it all the right way.” Above all else, it’s the loyal customers who really make the business thrive. Customers who first enjoyed Big Jim’s when it opened now bring
their kids. Chris said they know about 90 percent of their customer base by their first name. Having a close relationship like that with so many people is a big thing. “People have known Jim and Bruce for so many years now, with them working with the schools and working with the community with anything they need. So people know what kind of guys they are and it stands out,” Chris said. “People like to do business with businesses where they know the people who are running it are doing the best job they can. It’s just fun to see the customers grow with us.” Big Jim’s Pizzeria plans to keep growing and evolving with the community. In the middle of February, the restaurant will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a “Big Bash” party. “We’re not ready to release what that’s going to be yet but we have some great things in the works to top our last big sale with the 30th anniversary, where we sold pizzas for $2.80 apiece,” said Chris. “We haven’t found out exactly what we’re going to do with the 40th but it’s going to be a little bit crazier than that. We like to take care of the people that really keep us going. What really keeps us going is the customers. Without them, we’re not here.” Let’s raise our slices and wish Big Jim’s Pizzeria another 40 years of continued success. Congrats! Big Jim’s Pizzeria is located at 281 Main Street in New Milford. Call (201) 2624600 to place an order. Visit them online at www.bigjimspizza.com.
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A Slice of History Elmwood Park’s Pizza Town U.S.A. has been around since 1958 but this Jersey institution never gets old WRITTEN BY
TARA DeLORENZO
B
ack in 1958, Raymond Tomo was working with his brothers at Tomoco Produce, a produce supplier. He was driving around Route 46 one day and fell in love with the area, which was about 90% farmland at the time. America is the land of opportunity, and Tomo saw one. He was in his early 30s, and he decided to take a chance: He opened Pizza Town U.S.A. in Elmwood Park. Since then, the pizza landscape in New Jersey—make that the world—has never been the same. “Up until then, other than the boardwalk, you couldn’t buy pizza by the slice,” said Tomo’s daughter Michele, who now runs the business with her siblings Bruce and Lisa. “You’d have to go to an Italian restaurant, and they didn’t really have zeppoles or calzones in New Jersey, so he introduced them as well. He loved [Italian food]. He grew up having pizza at the local Italian restaurants and he’s Italian. That alone [was enough].” From there, a business built on tradition and family values blossomed, and it has attracted customers from the entire world. “When people come back to the area, it’s the first stop they make and they’re so happy.
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It’s like coming home and it’s exactly as it was 20 or 30 years ago, and that is a very proud moment because we’ve kept that going,” Michele said. “Also we’ve had people travel to come and get our pie. We have a customer who went back and forth from Japan constantly because of business and those Japanese people would say bring over pizza. He wanted to open a franchise in Japan because so many were eating our pizza. It has been craved internationally.” Pizza Town has received a tremendous amount of critical acclaim over the years. Last year, Joe Causi of WCBS-FM placed Pizza Town on his list of the best pizza places in the tri-state area. In 2009, The Star-Ledger placed a late-night slice from Pizza Town on its list of “20 Jersey Food Experiences You Must Try Before You Die.” Pizza Town was also featured in “A Slice of Jersey: Your Ultimate Guide to Pizza in the Garden State,” by Peter Genovese. The Tomo family and Pizza Town deserve every single one of these accolades. All of their success stems from the idea of keeping things just as they were for all this time. “A lot of people change things and their product becomes inferior. It’s the consistent fresh-made product that kept it going. People love the flavors and they want that flavor from the last 57 years,” explained Michele. “[We want to] keep it just as my father set it up. When he asked us to take it over, his only request was to keep it exactly as he set it up, and he asked us not to change a thing. So, the future is to keep going with my father’s dream.” Michele, Bruce and Lisa have abided by their father’s values. Hard work, cleanliness and speedy service— without those things, the business would not continue to thrive. Raymond Tomo also stressed one more thing: affordability. “My father’s basic thing is we have to make it affordable for families,” Michele said. “It always has to be the best food at the best price.” The Tomo family will continue to carry on their father’s vision as the years keep flying by. “My father just had a vision and through his mother and recipes, he figured out the best product he can make and that’s where his flavors came from,” said Michele. “He’s the driving force of the business. It was his idea. It was his vision. He came up with the product the way it is and he still checks it. His children are just helping carry on his vision.” No legendary eating establishment can make it this far without loyal customers. Over the years, the Tomo family has heard all about wonderful relationships, marriages and new families that have started. Each day, a new generation of Pizza Town lovers is born. “We consider our customers part of our family,” Michele said. “Serving them is our priority.” Pizza Town U.S.A. is located at 89 U.S. Route 46 in Elmwood Park. For quick pickup orders, call (201) 797-6172.
Fresh Fish. Flown in Daily. Experience our spectacular new location with contemporary décor and indulge in tantalizing chef creations, exceptional wines and exquisite desserts. Call or visit us online and make your reservation today.
The Shops at Riverside 175 Riverside Square Mall • Hackensack, NJ 07601 201.343.8862 • theoceanaire.com
PRIME STEAKS. LEGENDARY SERVICE.
Fine Wine • Private Dining • Exceptional Menu
The Shops at Riverside One Riverside Square • Hackensack, NJ 07601 (201) 487-1303 • mortons.com/hackensack
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Local Brews
The tri-state area is home to some great breweries. Take a tour and sip something new this season. WRITTEN BY
KATE CRONAUER
T
here is a widespread movement to consume and utilize local goods in today’s society. Whether it’s buying vegetables or eggs from your neighborhood farm, or finding a spare car part from the hardware store down the street, people all over are beginning to consider how even the smallest daily choices can positively impact the local economy, and on a much larger scale, the environment. If more people considered these alternative options and looked for goods and services within their community’s, many towns and cities across America would begin to improve even more. So while we try to reduce our carbon footprint, why don’t we enjoy some local beer! With respect to Bergen County, The Defiant Brewing Company, High Point Brewing Company and Captain Lawrence Brewing Company are the three closest and most renowned breweries in the area. Located just over the border in Pearl River, N.Y., Defiant is easily accessible for an after-work beer. Defiant serves up some excellent homemade slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, and brisket, along with sides such as cornbread and mac and cheese. They also offer cheese boards and hand-
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cut cured meats. There are about eight beers available on tap and usually some rare vintage beers or caskstyle ales to pair with your meal. Feel free to take the beer outside in the warmer months, and don’t forget to pick up a sixer or keg while you’re there. As for taking a tour, the brewery is one big room so feel free to look around and ask the staff questions. Check them out at defiantbrewing.com. Over in Morris County, High Point Brewing Company specializes in wheat beers brewed in the German tradition, but with American accents. The wheat, barley, hops and yeast are all sourced from Bavaria, lending an authentic texture, taste and smell to the six flagship beers at
this Butler, N.J. brewery. Ramstein, as it is also known, produces three seasonals as well as a few phenomenal pale ales. There are limited tours at Ramstein so be sure to check the website or call before heading down. The tasting room is open Monday through Saturday. Stop in and sample some beer fresh from the source and bring some home. To find out more, visit ramsteinbeer.com. Located across the Tappan Zee in Elmsford, N.Y., The Captain Lawrence Brewing Company is probably the most well known and most accessible local brewery. Just because you can probably find it in your local beer store does not mean you should pass up a tour and an afternoon sampling of their stock. Tours
are held on Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. and the tasting room is open Wednesday through Sunday. Feel free to sample any of the 12 beers on tap while munching on some local gourmet pizza. In the spring and summer, there is outdoor seating and a bocce ball court for patrons to enjoy. For more information on Captain Lawrence, visit captainlawrencebrewing.com. New Jersey has many up-andcoming breweries. Do a little research and find one in a town near you. Carton Brewing Company, Kane Brewing Company, and New Jersey Beer Company are a few local ones on my radar. So be a good citizen, support your fellow artisans and drink local craft beer. Cheers.
, When It s Chilly,
We Make Chili
W
hen it comes to comforting cold weather meals, nothing beats chili. This steamy concoction of meat, beans and veggies is a fantastic way to fill up your belly on a weeknight, or as we watch the Jets and Giants falter yet again on Sunday. Chili is coziness in a cup or bowl, and it’s so simple to make. It also makes for a great meal later on. Freeze some and enjoy it next week, or bring some into work the next day. No two pots of chili are the same. The ingredients are endless, and some guys even add beer to the pot. Some of us serve it up with warm rice, tortilla chips, or cornbread. Of course, some of us are purists and enjoy it plain. Chopped chives, green onions, sour cream, specialty cheeses and other goodies are great ways to add texture and taste to this hearty meal. Looking to whip up a pot of something special this winter? Check out these recipes!
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Beef and Chorizo Chili Serves 4 to 6. Time: 45 to 50 minutes
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (95% lean) 7 to 8 ounces beef chorizo 1 ½ cups chopped white onions 2 to 4 medium serrano peppers, chopped 2 tablespoons ground ancho chili powder or regular chili powder 2 tablespoons masa harina or cornmeal 1 tablespoon dried Mexican or regular oregano leaves, crushed 1 teaspoon salt 2 cans (15 to 16 ounces each) garbanzo beans or pinto beans, rinsed and drained 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained Hot cooked rice (optional)
Dressing: 1 medium ripe avocado ¾ cup water ¼ cup fresh lime juice 1 garlic clove, peeled ½ teaspoon salt Optional toppings: Sliced radishes Crumbled queso fresco Dairy sour cream Sliced green onions
Directions: 1. Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Add beef, chorizo, onions and peppers; cook 8 to 10 minutes, breaking into ¾-inch crumbles and stirring occasionally. Remove from skillet with slotted spoon; pour off drippings. Return beef to skillet. 2. Add chili powder, masa harina, oregano and salt; cook and stir 1 minute. Stir in beans and tomatoes; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 15 minutes. Remove from heat; let stand 5 minutes before serving. 3. To make dressing, cut avocado into chunks. Place avocado, water, lime juice, garlic and salt in blender container. Cover; process until smooth. May be prepared up to 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Note: Cooking times are for fresh or thoroughly thawed ground beef. Ground beef should be cooked to internal temperature of 160 degrees. Color is not a reliable indicator of doneness.
Smoky Chipotle Chili Serves 6 to 8. Time: 2 ½ hours
Ingredients: 2 ½ pounds boneless beef shoulder, arm or blade roast, cut into ½-inch pieces 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided 1 teaspoon salt 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 cans (14 ½ ounces each) diced tomatoes with green peppers and onions, undrained 1 bottle (12 ounces) beer 2 tablespoons adobo sauce from chipotle peppers 1 tablespoon minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed, drained 3 tablespoons masa harina Dairy sour cream Directions: 1. Cut beef roast into ½-inch pieces. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in stockpot over medium heat until hot; brown beef in batches and remove from stockpot. Season with salt. 2. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in same stockpot over medium heat. Add garlic; cook and stir 1 minute. Add beef, tomatoes, beer, adobo sauce and chipotle peppers; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover tightly and simmer 1 ½ to 1 ¾ hours or until beef is fork-tender. 3. Stir in beans and masa harina; return to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 1 to 2 minutes or until slightly thickened, stirring constantly. Serve with sour cream, as desired.
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,
When It s Chilly,
We Make Chili
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Chilly Day Beef Chili
Serves 6 to 8. Total time: 5 ½ to 6 hours on high, 8 to 9 hours on low Ingredients: 2 ½ pounds boneless beef chuck or round, cut into ½-inch pieces 2 cans (15 ½ ounces each) black beans, rinsed and drained 1 can (15 ½ ounces) chili-style tomato sauce with diced tomatoes 1 medium onion, chopped 2 teaspoons chili powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground cumin ½ teaspoon pepper 1 cup prepared thick-and-chunky salsa
Optional toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese Diced red onion Diced green onion Diced avocado Dairy sour cream
Directions: 1. Combine all ingredients except salsa and toppings in 4 ½ to 5 ½ quart slow cooker; mix well. Cover and cook on high 5 ½ to 6 hours, or on low 8 to 9 hours, or until beef is tender. No stirring is necessary during cooking. 2. Just before serving, stir in salsa; cook 2 to 3 minutes or until heated through. Serve with toppings, as desired. For more recipes, visit www.BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com.
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HOLIDAY 2014
WHY WE LOVE IT
Fast Food
PIZZA WRITTEN BY
BRANDON GOLDSTEIN
W
e’re blessed that there’s no shortage of great pizza in the tri-state area. It’s everywhere, and Italy is the only true competitor for the title of “Pizza Capital of the World.” You’ll find at least one great pizza joint in every town. In New York, there’s one on every block. Friends, why do we still order Domino’s? Fast food pizza isn’t new, and it hasn’t really changed all that much for the most part. Pizza Hut, Little Caesars, and Domino’s all opened for business between 1958 and 1960, but at the time they surely weren’t talking about pretzel crust and cheese sauce pizza. People often ask me, “Why do you love Domino’s so much when there’s so much good pizza around?” I often compare my love of Domino’s to my many experiences with Chips Ahoy! cookies. You see, a Chips Ahoy! cookie is only a chocolate chip cookie in appearance. Beyond that, you could say they both have chips. When it comes to actually tasting like a chocolate chip cookie,
something was lost in translation, but they are still really darn good. It’s the same with fast food pizza. Yes, some of the ingredients are similar. The appearance is also comparable— most of the time. Fast food pizza, however, has a distinctly un-pizza-like taste. Let’s try a little taste test. On the right we have a slice of Grimaldi’s finest and on the left, a slice of the new Papa John’s Fritos Chili Pizza: beef, chili, Roma tomatoes, onions, cheddar, mozzarella, and the kicker, Fritos. I’ve reached two conclusions. One: Grimaldi’s tasted like a really good slice of pizza. Two: Whatever the hell that was from Papa John’s tasted pretty good too. Did somebody say cheesy bread? Somehow, dipping a doughy and gooey mixture of bread and cheese into a tomato-based sauce—the three main ingredients of pizza—once again tastes nothing like pizza. Still, I order it alongside my “pizza” that also tastes nothing like pizza! I just can’t help myself. It’s irresistible. Fast food pizza companies are the
true innovators of the entire pizza market. Granted, artisan pizza shops with their fancy, or less fancy (i.e. “The Pizza Cake”) recipes have popped up everywhere, but most of them still don’t even deliver. On the other hand, Pizza Hut stuffs its crust with cheese, and for a brief time—or at least until everyone tasted it—the world went wild. Why more traditional places don’t incorporate this into their crusts on a specialty pie is a question I wrestle with daily. It captured my childhood, and there will always be a special place in my heart for Pizza Hut’s Stuffed Crust Pizza. I would love to ask recent Papa John’s franchisee Peyton Manning why, with his millions of dollars, he chose to invest in multiple Papa John’s chains around Colorado. Maybe he saw a budding market out there since, ya know, pot is legal. A good country boy like Peyton might not know what great pizza tastes like, but that’s the point: Fast food pizza doesn’t need to taste like pizza. It just needs to taste really good, and that’s why we love it.
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