Volume 18, No. 12December 15th - December 31st 2014FREE PUBLICATION
201-349-4336
Pg. 2 On the cover
Pg. 20
Pgs. 21 - 24
lock problems?NEED A NEW
LOCK?See Page 3
see pg. 11Jewelry & Watch Repair
HobokenGold & Diamonds115 Washington St., Hoboken
riverviewobserver.net
TURN YOUR UNWANTEDJEWELRY INTO CASH
Home Decor
Lucky New YearTraditionsPg. 3
TaphausBiergarten Pg. 17
Austin Wright Pg. 9
LOCALPOSTAL CUSTOMER
BayonneFamilyDentalSee ourad onpage 8
Bayonne’s Tammy Blanchard in her first Disney film: Sondheim’s INTO THE WOODSwith Meryl Streep, Johnny Depp and Anna Kendrick opens Christmas Day
A fter the presents have been opened on Christmas Day, it’s always fun to go out and catch a movie. That’s what Meryl Streep, Johnny Depp and Stephen Sondheim fans will be doing when the movie musical INTO THE WOODS opens nationwide on Dec. 25th. Meryl Streep stars as the Wicked Witch and a troupe of wickedly talented stars including Johnny Depp, Anna Kendrick, Christine Baranski and Bayonne’s Tammy Blanchard join her for a romp in the woods. “Be
about Grimm Fairy Tales, this is no kiddie movie. Sondheim and co-writer James Lapine have taken several fairy tale characters on loopy adventures where very adult things happen, and not every journey ends happily ever after.
winning musical which debuted on Broadway in 1987 starring Bernadette Peters as the wicked witch, and directed by Hal Prince. It has been performed throughout the world, has had several revivals here and in London, and has taken almost 30 years to go from stage to screen.
cont’d pg. 2
By Sally Deering
Meryl Streep with her co-starsChristine Baranski, Tammy Blanchardphoto source justjared.com
(973) 669-7331
Page 2-December 15th -December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
SONDHEIM & DISNEY & STREEP – Oh My!Tammy Blanchard Cont’d from Cover During her career, Bay-onne’s Tammy Blanchard earned Emmy and Golden Globe Awards for her portrayal of Judy Garland in LIFE WITH JUDY GARLAND; ME AND MY SHADOWS; and two Tony Award nominations for supporting roles in HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS…(with “Harry Potter” star Daniel Radc-liffe) and GYPSY starring Bernadette Peters. A single-mom, Blanchard keeps a busy schedule while balancing a full-time career. River View Observer caught up with her right after INTO THE WOODS premiered at the Ziegfeld on Dec. 8th to find out what it was like to work on a Disney film with superstar Meryl Streep and director Rob Marshall, (who directed the film ver-sion of the Broadway musi-cal CHICAGO).
RVO: Tammy, can you talk a bit about your character in the film? TB: I play one of the
wicked step-sisters be-ing pressured to marry a prince. We have a lot of money, but we’re losing the money and desperate. Our wicked step-mother – played by Christine Baran-ski – will do anything to get us married. We had a lot of fun working together. Christine is amazing.
RVO: What was it like working with Christine Baranski?TB: She was flying back and forth from filming THE GOOD WIFE (CBS-TV). She loves acting, and talk-ing about it. I’m so laid back, but a lot of other ac-tors are so into their roles and they talk a lot about it. Although I like preserving, I like seeing other actors be that way. That’s why I love acting. It’s a bunch of geeks and dorks who get together and make something beau-tiful happen. And the set is like a church. I love it. It’s a saving grace for me.
RVO: What was it like at the Dec. 8th movie premiere at the Ziegfeld,
seeing yourself on that huge screen?TB: It was fun. It was cool seeing myself be so mean and rotten. I was impressed with my snottiness. (she laughs)
RVO: Can you share an anecdote about working with Meryl Streep? TB: Before filming, the en-tire cast went out to dinner and I’m sitting at the
Tammy Blanchard at home before the “Into The Woods” Premiere on December 8th, 2014Photo: Ava Jean Entertainment ©
table with all the leads including Meryl Streep. I’m pretty shy and don’t say much. Then Meryl asks me where I’m from. When she talks, everyone stops. I tell her I was born and raised in Bayonne. She said her father was from Newark. I had no idea that she’s a Jersey girl, too. And to reach out to me in that mo-ment, that was so generous. But that’s what Jersey girls
do.
RVO: Did you have any scenes with Meryl Streep?TB: We had a scene in the woods where Meryl as the Wicked Witch is about to throw the blind girl to the giant. When we started shooting it, she kept throw-ing me. Rob had to go over and tell her that it was the blind girl who was the
Cont’d on page 5
Page 3-December15th-December 31st, 2014, River View Observer
KIDS EAT FREE
EVERY MONDAY & TUESDAY
www.otaikonj.com
Sushi Bar Hibachi Tables Daily Lunch Specials Kids Menu Available
10% OFF Any Purchase With this coupon only. Cannot be combined
with any other offers Expires 1/31/15
Open Monday –Thursday 12noon-10:30 pm
Friday and Saturday 12 Noon-11:30 pm
Sunday 12:30-9:30pm
(South Cove Commons– Route 440 North 125 LEFANTE Way, Bayonne, NJ 07002
Tel: (201) 339-3399 /3392 Fax: 201-339-3300 Plenty of Free Ample Parking
Find Us On We Accept
HAPPY HOUR –MONDAY-SATURDAY BAR ONLY 5 –7 PM
Full Bar Service Plenty of Free Parking
Open Christmas Eve & Christmas Day –New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day
Lucky New Year TraditionsTimes Square Ball Drop (2014) Fireball Swinging, Scotland
By Sally DeeringAt 11:59 pm on New Year’s Eve, many of us will turn to the TV or computer to watch the ball drop in Times Square. Last year, one million people braved
the cold to watch the ball slide down the pole atop One Times Square on 42nd Street and now, more than one hundred years since the ball fi rst dropped in 1907, we’ll be watching a crystal
ball this time ring in the New Year. It’s tradition. Throughout the world, people celebrate New Year’s Day with traditions passed down through
generations and we’ve compiled a sampling below. Some are fun, some seri-ous, but all seem to mark a new beginning and a new outlook. If 2014 wasn’t great, there’s always 2015, right?Ooh-La-LaIn Italy, red signifi es good luck and what better way to ring in the New Year than
in some nice red under-wear. Red undies attract the protective presence of Archangel Michael and bring good luck when worn New Year’s Eve. (In Brazil, Bolivia, Venezu-ela, and São Paulo, La Paz, people don red undies for love; yellow for money.)
That’s All FolksIn Johannesburg, South Africa, residents throw old appliances and furniture out the window.Bells Ring New Year’s Day symboliz-es rebirth and in Japan, it’s the most important holiday of the year. On New Year’s Eve, Buddhist temples ring bells or strike gongs 108 times to welcome Tosh-igami, the New Year’s God, and to clear away 108 types of human weakness.On New Year’s Day chil-dren receive otoshidamas, small gifts with money inside. Sending New Year’s cards is also part of the tradition and the Post Offi ce accommodates
Cont’d on page 4
Page 4-December 15th-December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
Lucky New Year TraditionsCont’d from page 3 with delivery guaranteed Jan. 1st.Carry-onOn New Year’s Eve in Mexico, for good luck and those wishing to travel, people carry empty suit-cases.Raindrops on RosesIt’s traditional to throw buckets of water on friends and loved ones in Thailand. Just for LaughsThe British comedy DIN-NER FOR ONE is a New Year’s Eve tradition and the most frequently repeated TV program in Germany. The 11-minute sketch is about 90 year-old Miss So-phie who throws a birthday party for herself, setting the table for friends no longer living. Her butler, James, plays along and
impersonates all the guests, imbibing and getting tipsy as the charade wears on. (It’s also watched in Fin-land and Denmark where it’s called THE 90-YEAR BIRTHDAY.)Circles RuleIn the Philippines, people wear polka dots and eat round fruits for a prosper-ous New Year.Here Comes the Sun On New Year’s Eve, Scots celebrate with Hogmanay or “first-footing” where the first person to cross the threshold of a home in the New Year brings a gift for luck (whiskey is popular). Bonfires are also lit, and in the small fishing village of Stonehaven, people swing fire balls on poles to sym-bolize the sun purifying the coming year.
On the Right FootOn New Year’s Eve, people hang onions on their doors in Greece. It’s believed that hanging an onion, or kremmida, symbolizes rebirth in the coming year. Traditionally celebrated is the pothariko, or “first foot” where the first person to
“Polar Bears” in Canadaenter in the first moments of the New Year should be sweet and kind to bring good luck to the home. (Kids are usually chosen because they are the most innocent.) The person must enter with their right foot first so that things go right in the New Year.
Peel Me a Grape In Spain, eating 12 grapes as the clock strikes 12 brings good luck.Fortune SmeltingA Finnish New Year’s Eve tradition is molybdomancy, the act of telling New Year’s fortunes by melt-ing lead and then quickly throwing it into a bucket of cold water. The configura-tion of metal is analyzed to tell fortunes for the New Year.Bread Toss: Single women place sprigs of mistletoe under their pillows on New Year’s night to attract good luck, and a husband. People throw bread at the walls to get rid of evil spirits. Baby its Cold Outside. On New Year’s Day in Canada and the U.S. people take the Polar Bear Plunge into freezing cold oceans, rivers and lakes for good luck. (There’s a New York Polar Bear Club that dives into the Atlantic off Coney Island.) Click Clack MooFarmers in Romania head to their fields to commune with their cows. If the cow communicates back, there’s trouble ahead in the New Year. Jump for JoyDanes prepare an eve-ning meal that ends with a special dessert known as Kransekage, a cake deco-rated with fireworks and flags. They celebrate at midnight by jumping off chairs to symbolize leap-ing into the New Year with good luck
Happy 2015 from all of us at The River View Observer!
Page 5-December 15th-December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
SONDHEIM & DISNEY & STREEP – Oh My!Tammy BlanchardCont’d from page 2be thrown. That’s how it was rehearsed. But I loved getting thrown by Meryl Streep. She wanted to con-nect with me and she did. (Tammy laughs) It seems she still has that Jersey girl way about her. She’s happy and free-spirited. And as an actress, she’s blessed with this gift for knowing hu-manity. She’s beyond great. She has a sense of truth in her. Meryl does so many charitable things for so many people. I just love her so much.
RVO: Did you do any scenes with Johnny Depp?
TB: He came to the record-ing studio and we met. Rob Marshall, the director, walked him into each booth to say hello. He seemed shy, sweet and timid. He smiled at me at one point, but for the most part he was hidden away from everyone.
RVO: You’ve worked with Sondheim before when you did GYPSY on Broadway with Berna-dette Peters. What’s he like?TB: Anna Kendrick and I were waiting in a rehearsal room when he came in to use the piano. He changed some notes on a piece of
paper for a new song (that was eventually cut), thanked us and left. We wit-nessed Stephen Sondheim writing music. Afterwards, I cried. It felt like such a magical moment and then for him to thank us for allowing him to use the piano. On set and in re-hearsals, he’s a quiet man. Sort of like Santa Clause: he smiles and laughs; he seems sweet and cuddly; and you’re terrifi ed of him.
RVO: Do you think the fi lm is okay for kids to see?TB: It demolishes your thoughts about fairy tales. It’s a dark take. Children’s minds are very precious. I
think in order to make that decision, you have to know your child. If your child doesn’t believe in fairy tales and princesses then you can take them. If your child loves princesses and fairy tales, I wouldn’t take them if they’re younger than 10.
RVO: What do you think of Rob Marshall’s direc-tion?TB: It’s different from the Broadway show; Rob put a modern day twist on it. He cast all of these people from different parts of the world and he has us sing all types of music. Meryl Streep raps in it. It’s mind-blowing, dark, funny,
sarcastic, and it’s differ-ent from what we grew up knowing about fairy tales. Princes aren’t always what you thought they were.
If you go:Opens nationwide on Dec. 25thInto the Woods, the movieCheck local movie listingswww.disney.com/IntotheWoodswww.movietickets.com
To read more local Celebrity interviews
Visit our [email protected]
observer.netSearch Celebrity Interviews
Page 6-December 15th -December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
LET’S MAKE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON EASY! NO...EASIER !
Just One Call Brings It All!
Auchentoshan 12 YR…………... Glenfiddich 12 YR……………….. Glenlivet 12 yr…………………….. Johnnie Walker Blue Label…. Johnnie Walker Platinum…. Johnnie Walker Black Label…. Johnnie Walker Black Label…. Bushmills Irish…………………….. Jameson 12 yr ……………………. Jameson Irish……………………... Booker's Bourbon……………….. Maker's Mark……………………... Knob Creek………………………….. Jack Daniels…………………………. Seagram's 7 Crown………………. Cognac & Brandy Remy Martin XO………………….. Remy Martin 1738……………….. Remy VSOP………………………….. Hennessy VSOP……………………. Hennessy VS………………………... E & J VS……………………………….. Leroux Polish Brandy…………... Rum & Tequila Bacardi Silver/Gold……………... Bacardi Flavors……………………. Captain Morgan Spiced………. Captain Morgan Spiced………. Patron Silver………………………. Sauza Silver/Gold……………….. Jose Cuervo Silver/Gold……... Vodka Absolut………………………………. Belvedere………………………….. Grey Goose………………………... Stolichnaya………………………... Ciroc………………………………….. Svedka……………………………….. Svedka………………………………... Smirnoff 80proof………………...
Scotch & Single Malt & Bourbon 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 1.75L 1.75L 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 1L 750ml 1.75L 1.75L 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 1.75L 1.75L 1.75L 1.75L 1.75L 1.75L 750ml 750ml 750ml 1L 1.75L 1.75L 1.75L 1.75L 1L 1.75L 750ml 1.75L
$ 39.99 $42.99 $ 42.99 $189.99 $ 159.99 $ 65.99 $ 36.99 $ 25.99 $ 59.99 $ 32.99 $ 55.99 $ 39.99 $ 35.99 $ 46.99 $ 22.99 $ 139.99 $ 54.99 $ 45.99 $ 49.99 $ 65.99 $ 22.99 $ 22.99 $ 20.99 $ 25.99 $ 29.99 $ 22.99 $ 42.99 $ 19.99 $ 24.99 $ 32.99 $ 49.99 $ 59.99 $ 32.99 $ 39.99 $ 20.99 $ 12.99 $ 20.99
Dom Perignon…………………………... Moet Imperial NV………………………. Moet Nector Rose……………………... Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label………. Tattinger Brut…………………………….. Nicolas Fueillatte Blue Label………. Roederer Estate…………………………. Korbel Brut / Xtra Dry………………... Martini Rossi Asti………………………. Skinny Girl Prosecco…………………... Louis Jadot Pouilly Fuisse…………... Louis Jadot Pinot Noir………………... Louis Jadot Beaujolais………………... Notre Dam Cotes-du-Rhone………. Ruffino Chianti Gold………………….. Ruffino Chianti Tan……………………. Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio…... Banfi San Angelo Pinot Grigio……. Cielo Pinot Noir/Pinot Grigio……... Marques De Riscal Rioja…………….. Faustino I Gran Reserva……………... Faustion VII Tempernillo…………….. Don Miguel Gason Malbec…………. Alamos Malbec…………………………... Silverado Vinyards Rose …………….. Silver Oak Napa Cabernet…………... Stag's Leap Cabernet………………….. Caymus Napa Cabernet………………. Chalone Carneros Pinot Noir………. Williamatte Valley Pinot Noir……... Francis Coppola Cabernet………….. Charles Krug Chardonnay…………... Franciscan Napa Merlot…………….. 14 Hands Cabernet…………………….. Mark West Pinot Noir………………... Chateau St. Michelle White wines Cupcake wines…………………………... Beringer Whie Zinfandel……………. Kendall Jackson Cabernet………….. Kendall Jackson Chardonnay……... Robert Mondavi Private Selection.
750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 1.5L 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 750ml 1.5L 750ml 750ml 750ml
Sparkling Wine & Wine $ 159.99 $ 42.99 $ 59.99 $ 48.99 $ 44.99 $ 32.99 $ 25.99 $ 12.99 $ 12.99 $ 14.99 $ 22.99 $ 19.99 $ 11.99 $ 14.99 $ 32.99 $ 21.99 $ 21.99 $ 17.99 $ 14.99 $ 17.99 $ 28.99 $ 8.99 $ 12.99 $ 9.99 $ 11.99 $109.99 $ 39.99 $ 74.99 $ 30.99 $ 20.99 $ 15.99 $ 15.99 $ 18.99 $ 12.99 $ 10.99 $ 9.99 $ 9.99 $ 9.99 $ 16.99 $ 12.99 $ 9.99
WE OFFER A WIDE VARIETY OF FINE WINES, BEER AND SPIRITS
Discounts Available On Mixed Cases of Spirits and Mixes Cases of Wine
(Excluding sales items)
Any 4 or MORE BOTTLES OF WINE
Excludes Sale Items 750 ML Only With This Coupon Only
Cannot be combined with other offers Expires 1/2/2015
Toward the purchase of any
Three 6-PK BEER Excludes Sale Items
With This Coupon Only Cannot be combined with other offers
Expires 1/2/2015
Open Monday –Saturday 10am-10pm Sunday 10am –7pm
Major Credit Cards Accepted
941 Broadway Corner of 45th Street Bayonne, NJ 07002 201-339-7345 201-339-FAST (3278)
Please Enjoy Responsibly WE CARD
Your Complete One Stop Liquor Mart
The Kennedy Dancers Presents “A Christmas Cabaret” The Kennedy Dancers will once again present their annual “Christmas Cabaret” on December 20, 2014 at 7:00 PM and December 21, 2014 at 3:00 PM at Art House Produc-tions’ new venue located on 136 Magnolia Avenue in
Jersey City, New Jersey lo-cated right behind the Journal Square PATH Station on the corner of Summit and Mag-nolia, making it a very easy event to attend to, as it is ac-cessible by bus and train. “A Christmas Cabaret,”
a dance performance by the Kennedy Dancers Inner City Youth, Kennedy Dance Students and special guests from the Kennedy Dancers Repertory Company. Choreographed by Diane Dragone, Artistic Director.
Page 7-December15th -December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
(Normally $249)(Normally $249)(Normally $249) ALL INSURANCES ACCEPTED ALL INSURANCES ACCEPTED ALL INSURANCES ACCEPTED
kDiagnostic Testing kOral Cancer Screening kComposite Fillings kNight Guards kDentures kExtractions
kBridges/Crowns/Inlays kScaling & Root Planting kGum Recession/ kGum Graft Treatment kBone Grafts kRoot Canal
kPediatric Dentistry kBraces kDental Implants kTeeth Whitening kLaminates/ kDental Veneers
We offer our dental services to kids and adults of all ages. Our patients range from
18 months to 93 years old. Call us today for an Appointment
Friendly, courteous & professional staff
We also speak Spanish
We Offer a full complement We Offer a full complement of dental services in our of dental services in our conveniently located conveniently located Dental center such as:Dental center such as:
FOR THOSE WITHOUT INSURANCEFOR THOSE WITHOUT INSURANCEFOR THOSE WITHOUT INSURANCE
No insurance required for the above FREE EXAM For Children under 12
Page8-December 15th-December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
Simplify Your Gift Giving
www.leesimschocolates.com
Give us you list
Page 9-December 15th -December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
NJ’s Bayonne UWA-Martial Arts Elite Team WrightWins 1st at Karate Super Star Challenge On Sunday Novem-ber 2nd, 2014 Bayonne and Jersey City NJ’s U.S. National UWA Martial Arts Elite Team Wright won several 1st Places in categories of Kumite (Sparring), Kata (Forms) and Weapons at the Boston, Massachusetts Super Star Karate Challenge. The Team competed against outstanding Cervizzios Martial Arts and Okinawan stylist, Ju-jitsu Grapplers and Karate Tournament Fighters who were formible Champion opponents. The Director was Soke Paul Cervizzio 10th Dan. The Tournament started off with the Masters as Grand Master Austin Wright Sr. show cased his Okinawan Isshin-Ryu Ka-rate “Iron Man” Breathing (Breath Control) Seuchin Kata (form). Kids were emulating Wrights breath-ing Kia’s and strikes. All Masters agreed “Wright nailed it” says Dr. Jim Thomas, Head Coach of the “Alliance” as spectators, Judges and Competitors were in awe and up on their feet with a standing ovation during the Award Cer-emony where Wright was recognized and placed in the Cervizzios Boston Mas-sachusetts Hall of Fame of Masters, and Lifetime Achievement Award. Wright was also nomi-nated as the New Jersey State Director for the “Al-liance” video’s and photos can be seen on youtube and facebook for Elite Team Wright.
Competitors Results:Kenneth Jackson III, 4th Dan Black Belt 17 year old placed 1st in the 18-34 Age division Sparring, Kata and Weapons.York Watson, 1st Dan Black Belt 14, year old
Grandmaster Austin Wright Sr. 9th Dan in American Judo-Jujutsu Combative Arts, 8TH Dan in Isshin-Ryu Karate, Soke Dai 10th in Universal Warrior Mar-tial Arts , Amateur MMA & Professional Kickboxing coach and trainer. For Sign-Ups call 201-437-1820 orwww. uwa-martialarts.com
From left to right Grand Master Austin Wright Sr. , Robin Barito , York Watson , Kenneth Jackson , Soke Paul Cervizzio and Dr.Jim Thomas Head Coach of the Alliance
placed 1st in the Age division 13 to 15 Sparring, Weapons and 2nd in Kata & kicking contest.Robin Brito, Orange Belt 14, year old placed 1st in the Age division of 13 to 15
Photo: From left to right Soke Paul Cervizzio ,Grand Master Austin Wright and Grand Master Dr. Jim Thomas
in Sparring and,Kata.All students train under the direct supervision of
Send Us Your Community Events for Upcoming
Issues of the River View Observer
Email to:Riverviewobserver
@gmail.comsend 2 weeks prior
to event
Page10- December 15th-December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
The Perfect Holiday Gifts
from
Maple Magic Confectionary LLC
Naturally made Sugar Cotton Candy Beautifully displayed
In Mason Jars, Decorative Tubs & Bags for Party Favors & Gifts
Maple Sugar Shakers Maple Syrup & Maple Cream
732-778-2671 Call for Prices
[email protected] Facebook.com/
Maplemagicconfectionay.com
Confectionery LLC
Visit our website
4”x4”
The best gift comes from the heart.
201-339-3398
www.orsinicustomtees.comNeed a holiday gift?
My Mom and meMy Mom and meMy Mom and me
for MOM
for DADfor GRANDMA
for SIS
5w 8th Street, Bayonne, NJ 07002
Love Dining Out?Read Our Restaurant Views
by Sally Deering www.riverviewobserver.net
Photo left: Santa and Mrs Claus Take a Post Brunch Stroll in Newport
Recently on a Sunday afternoon in December, Santa and Mrs. Claus vis-ited Newport in downtwon Jersey City for the AnnualNewport Holiday Selfi eswith Santa and Mrs. Claus. Held each year by the participating restaurants located in Newport. This year Santa and Mrs. Claus visited: Lora-della’s, Morton Williams, Raaz, Cosi, Bertucci’s, Dorrians Fire and Oak and Bartello’s.
Sunday Brunch with Santa in Newport
Santa and Mrs Claus Brunch at Battello in Newport
Group Shot with Santa at Battello
Wishing EveryoneHappy Holidays & A Happy, Healthy
Prosperous 2015
The River View Observer
EVERYTHING MUST GO!
Renovation Sale
Up to 75% o�everything in stock...
Page 11-December 15th -December31st, 2014 River View Observer
FIVE CORNERS
666 Newark Avenue
Jersey City, NJ 07306
PHONE: 201.659.3900 | VISIT US ONLINE AT www.LSFCU.org
VISIT A LIBERTY SAVINGS SERVICE CENTER NEAR YOU TODAY.
GREENVILLE
1590 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
Jersey City, NJ 07305
NORTH HUDSON 108 48th Street
Union City, NJ 07087
with a Holiday Loan.
Receive 1% off your lowest qualifying rate.
Rates are determined by LSFCU and are based on the borrower’s credit worthiness. Rates are subject to change without notice. Must be paid off within a 12 month period. Offer valid between November 1, 2014 and December 31, 2014. *No account to open. No purchase necessary. Purchase does not increase your chances of winning. Open only to legal residents of New Jersey who are located in the United States at time of entry. Void elsewhere and where by prohibited by law. Eligibility limited to adults 18 years or older. Visit www.LSFCU.org for full terms and conditions.
Plus be entered for a chance to win 1 of 3 Kindle Fire HD tablets when you apply!*
Page 12-December 15th-December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
Page 13-December 15th -December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
Alex’s LUNCH DINNER
CATERING BANQUET
PRIVATE PARTIES UP TO
50 PEOPLE
DINE IN
FREE DINNER Buy One Dinner
Get Second Dinner Free Valid After 4pm
DINE IN ONLY-Offer Only valid Off Dinner Menu
Cannot be combined with any other offer Offer Expires 12/30/14
Alex’s Italian Restaurant
DINE IN
25%OFF Purchase of 4
Entries or More Valid After 4pm
DINE IN ONLY-Offer Only valid Off Dinner Menu
Cannot be combined with any other offer Offer Expires 12/30/14
Alex’s Italian Restaurant
FAMILY SPEICAL 12 Buffalo Wings, Large Plain Pie &
Any Large Dinner from the Menu
$29.95 ONLY VALID FOR TAKE OUT
or DELIVERY Cannot be combined with
any other offer Offer Expires 12/30/14
Alex’s Italian Restaurant
50% OFF Buy one Dinner
Get Second Dinner Half Price
DINE IN, TAKE-OUT
OR DELIVERY Cannot be combined with
any other offer Offer Expires 12/30/14
Alex’s Italian Restaurant
2 LARGE PIES $19.95
ONLY VALID FOR TAKE OUT or DELIVERY
Cannot be combined with any other offer
Offer Expires 12/30/14
Alex’s Italian Restaurant
SUN & MON 7 DAYS A WEEK 7 DAYS A WEEK 7 DAYS A WEEK 7 DAYS A WEEK
We Deliver 346 Grove St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 Order on line @ www. Alexpizzaandrestaurant.com Fax: 201-451-4552 All Major Credit Cards Accepted
Hours: Mon-Sat 11am –10pm/ Sun 12pm– 10pm 201-451-4550
Fresh Quality Food
SATURDAY & SUNDAY
FROM 1 PM to 5PM
$89
Carmela’s Fine Italian Cuisine
Owned & Operated by Chef Carmela Suppa
Piccola Cucina
Antipasti Salads Pasta Pesce/ Fish Carne/ Meat Pollo/ Chicken Desserts
Enjoy a
Glass of Wine
with Your Meal
CATERING FOR HOLIDAY PARTIES & ALL OCCASIONS
On & Off Premises
Now Serving Beer & Wine 578 Ave C, Bayonne 201.243.6855
Major Credit Cards Accepted including American Express
Page14-December 15th-December 31st, 2014,River View Observer
324 3rd Street, Downtown Jersey City 201.420.3268
All Major Credit Cards Accepted
Every Thursday Pasta Night Authentic Sunday sauce $8.95
All you can eat and plus a glass of wine
Serving Hudson County
Since 1969
Open for Lunch & Dinner
Open Monday to Saturday Closed Sundays
Reservations now being accepted for our Traditional
Christmas Eve Fish Dinner Walk-ins Welcomed Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve
Closed Christmas & New Year’s Day
JOIN US ON NEW YEAR’S EVE
FOR OUR LOBSTER DINNER
SPECIAL We Will Also Feature Our Regular Menu
The River View
Observer 201.349.4336
Print-Digital-Mobile –Mail Published bi-weekly by
Ad Vantage Publishing Inc 2nd & 4th weeks Mailing Address:
123 Town Square Place #321
Jersey City, NJ 07310 Contributing Writers:
Sally Deering Senior Writer
Ricardo Kaulessar Evelyn Bonilla Photography
Steve A. Mack Stevemack.com
Graphics Anthony Piscitelli
Creative Edge Distribution
JP Newspapers Dist. Publisher
Joseph Calamito [email protected]
www.riverviewobserver.net [email protected]
Subscriptions $12. per year
HOLIDAY EVENT JERSEY CITY’S PS 23 TO HOST WINTER WONDERLAND THEMED DISNEY’S FROZENThe Mahatma K. Gandhi PS 23 Performing Arts Department willbe holding their 5th annual “Winter
through” this coming Wonderland Walk-Monday, December22 from 4:30 - 6 p.m.
Every year the school’s Performing Arts Depart-ment hosts this event to raise money for their middle school performing arts students’ annual field trip to see a Broadwayshow in New York City. Last year over 200 visitors were charmed by the walk-through extravaganza. his year’s walk-through will be set to the theme of the Disney smash-hit Frozen.
With the collective help of staff, students and parent volunteers, the entire first floor of the main building will be transformed into a dazzling display of musical snippets from the movie, performed by drama stu-dents as well as students from the Hispanic Heritage Club. The walkthroughwill end with optional photo-ops with “Elsa and Anna”! All members of the
Jersey City community are invited and welcomed to attend the event. The en-trance fee is $5 at the door,however, you can pre-pur-chase tickets at the school for $3. Optional photos with Elsa and Annaare $5.If You Go:The Mahatma K. Gandhi PS 23 Jersey City,143 Romaine Ave201-945-6490201-945-6492December 22nd4:30-6pm
The River View Observer
Supporting the Arts Since 1998
Page 15-December 15th-December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
Page 16-December 15th-December 31st, 2014, River View Observer
Page 17 -Decenber 15th-December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
The Culinary Bad BoyTen Ingredients with Chef Chris Nirschel of Taphaus biergarten in Jersey City
By Sally Deering Downtown Jersey City can now boast a new jewel in its crown, a gem of a restaurant glistening on the waterfront like a pearled onion garnishing a NY Strip. Taphaus biergarten opened just a couple months ago at the eastern end of 2nd Street in Jersey City; you can’t get any closer than this to one of the most beautiful views of the New York Skyline and particularly the Freedom
Tower. No dark corners in this eatery; instead, its fam-ily style tables in a large dining area and bar, and a menu of classic comfort food reconstructed by Chef Chris Nirschel. Chef Nirschel has been featured on several TV shows and he calls himself a “Culinary Bad Boy”. He’s worked in the food industry since he was 15; and since then, attended the French Culinary Institute in New York, and worked in several Manhattan restaurants,
starting at the Knicker-bocker Bar & Grill in Greenwich Village and then becoming executive chef at the Excelsior on the Upper West Side. A TV favorite, he competed on Season 7 of FOOD NETWORK STARS and has appeared on DR. OZ. He recently hosted HOUSE OF FOOD on MTV, teaching aspiring chefs the art of cooking. These days, Chef Nirschel can be seen regularly at Taphaus, where he designed the menu
featuring dishes like Aspar-agus Fries, Tap Haus Mac and Buffalo Rock Shrimp ($7-$13); bratwursts like the Spicy Jalapeno and Chimichurri Beef ($11-$12); sandwiches including the Chicken & Waffle, and Ribeye Steak & Cheese ($13 ea.); and entrees like the Pan Seared Salmon, Swordfish Skewers, and the Risotto Stuffed Pepper ($18-$22). Now in his 30s, Chef Nirschel’s star seems to be on the rise. He also got engaged, recently, to hisfiancé Dana Ahern and
the couple plans to have their wedding reception at Taphaus. Here are Chef Nirschel’s Ten Ingredients:RVO: Chef Nirschel, can you explain what makes you a “Culinary Bad Boy”?CN: I like to be a versatilechef. I like music in the kitchen. I like to be in a good mood. I rap to my guys in the kitchen. I’m a culinary bad boy with a heart of gold.RVO: Where did you grow up?
Cont’d on page 18
Page 18-December 15th -December 31st 2014 River View Observer
The Culinary Bad BoyCont’d from page 17CN: My dad was in higher education, so we traveled a lot. I was born in Con-necticut, lived there for a few years, Pennsylvania for a few years, Miami for eight years. I liked it. I was always a very social guy. RVO: How did you get interested in cooking?CN: I always connected with food. I’ll cook all day for my family, my friends. My uncle Davey’s Argentin-ian and he would teach me how to fish and grill. He’s my favorite uncle in the world. I have so many good memories sitting around the dinner table and talking about life and food. RVO: What is your cook-ing style?CN: I cook with my heart. Here, at Taphaus I have a lot of fun creating bar food with a nice little flair. I also create custom menus for special occasions, party menus. RVO: At Taphaus, what are the signature dishes?CN: There are so many options on the menu that you’ll want to come back just to try different things. That’s the goal. I want the
guests to say I can’t wait to try that next time. We want to be a new-age biergar-ten. Here we have the most amazing food, 48 drafts, and a great view. It’s a fun place to go, or throw a party.RVO: To the people who eat your food, what message are you sending with every plate?CN: I take a lot of pride in my food, the aesthetics of the plate, the portion, I want the customer to be satisfied. Getting their dollars’ worth, getting something special, their experience should be the best possible and I want to make sure of that. When you go out and eat, it’s the full experience. I want it to be fun and yet professional so you’ll come back.RVO: You teach cooking classes for kids? CN: It’s called Culinary Kids Rock! and I teach kids about food and cooking. I have an 11 year-old named Sam studying with me who’s coming in tomorrow. I’ve been cooking with Sam for about 8 months. He has a great palate and he comes up with great ideas.
RVO: You work with non-profits, too?CN: I work with the New Jersey Food Bank and In God’s Love We Deliver. I try to reach out as much as I can. I can’t donate money, but I can donate my time.RVO: You’ve become a celebrity chef and make a lot of TV appearances. Did you enjoy doing the DR. OZ show?CN: Dr. Oz wanted me to do a gourmet dish utiliz-ing canned ingredients for under $5 per person. I made salmon cakes and a pineapple chutney. It was pretty cool. RVO: Taphaus has only been open a couple months; how’s business?CN: Last week, we had ten parties; this week five, and every night we’re filling the house. If you go:Taphaus biergartenTwo 2nd Street Jersey City(201) 626-6000www.taphaus.comHours: Sun-Thurs, 11 am-12 midnight Fri & Sat, 11 am-2 amChef Chris NirschelCulinary Bad Boy.com; Culinarykidsrock.com
Chef Chris Nirschel New Year’s Eve...It’s a Family Affair - JC Family’s NYE Party!! Art House Productions invites you to ring in the New Year at their fabulous new home in Journal Square! #getsparkly Live music by Devi + DJ Geo RgeSoul on the decks!More bands TBA so stay tuned. 11 PM - DEVI www.face-book.com/devirock Midnite - DJ GEORGE SOUL www.facebook.com/DJGeorgeSoul All while they stream the Times Square ball drop!!TIX: http://ArtHouseNYE.brownpapertickets.com/$30 in advance (advance tix include 1 free drink)$40 at the door- Cash bar and tapas- Bring a can or other non-perishable for our food drive!All proceeds benefit Art House Productions, a non-profit 501(c)3 charity
Battello, located on the Hudson River waterfront in Newport, Jersey City, offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and an unforgettable culinary experi-ence featuring a contemporary Italian-based, seafood-influ
enced menu designed by one of New Jersey’s top culinary masters, Chef Ryan DePersio. This year, Battello invites guests to ring in the New Year at their first New Years Eve party, A Black Tie Affair. The celebration begins at 8:30PM with a live band, photo booth and special surprises through-out the evening. A premium open bar, hors d’oeuvres and a midnight champagne toast are included in the ticket price, which is $175 per person and can be purchased at www.battellojc.com. The Westin – Newport479 Washington Blvd JC offering exhilarating views of Downtown and Midtown Manhattan, guests are invited to celebrate the new year at our Half Moon Lounge for a vibrant night filled with music and cocktails. There will be a live show and DJ provided by D’Amico Entertainment and vocals and piano by Deb De Lucca from 9PM to 2AM. Liberty House76 Audrey Zapp Drive Jersey City is inviting guests to ring in the new year at one of their conveniently timed dinner seatings: 5 PM, 6PM and 9PM. Diners attending the 9PM seating are invited to stick around for live music, dancing and a midnight cham-pagne toast!
Page 19- December 15th-December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERICAL
Take $50 OFF ANY REMOVAL OF $500.00 OR MORE
WITH THIS AD Can not be combined with any other offer
Call Ann & S 201-437-8510 www.njanns4junk.com
Serving All of New Jersey
Family Owned Business Since 2002
Page 20-December 15th-December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
The Trusted Leader in the Cleaning Industry
Established 1975- Our 39th Year
-Pet Friendly-
GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE
201.420.1111 88 State Highway,
Jersey City, NJ 07306 www.reginasmaids.com
Under New
Ownership
Move in-Move Out Commerical
Hallway /Common Area Post Construction
Carpet Cleaning Upholstery Cleaning
Window Cleaning Comprehensive Commercial
RESIDENTIAL CLEANING
~ Holiday Special ~ $20 Off ~Initial Cleaning
NEW CUSTOMERS ONLY $5 off –One Room Carpet Cleaning
Multi Room Discount
Festive Tips to Deck Your Table for the Holidays
BPT) - ‘Tis the season for holiday entertaining. Icy shades of glistening white, sophisticated naturals and dazzling rhinestones top the hottest design trends in tableware and collectibles for the 2014 winter holi-days. “Shades of white contin-ue to be a customer favor-ite, both in ornaments
and tabletop,” says visual designer John Griffi th. “For the past few years, holiday decor has hinted at glitz and glitter, but this season we’re seeing more of a jeweled look with glamor-ous winter white designs heavily encrusted with rhinestones. It reminds me of when you wake up after a winter storm and every
thing is coated in sparking snow and ice.” Griffi th leads the design team at dinnerware retailer giant, Replacements, Ltd. He loves mixing patterns in shades of white to create an elegant monochromatic look, but adds that usingwhite as a unifying element also allows one to create
Cont’d on page 21
Page 21-December 15th-December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
Festive Tips to Deck Your Table for the Holidays
Cont’d from page 20endless design combina-tions by blending in addi-tional colors, textures and shapes. Teammate Keith Winkler says you can easily use a different salad plate for each guest to create fun individual place settings, or even switch out accent plates between holidays to give your tabletop decor a totally different twist. “For someone who en-tertains often, this is a great way to break up patterns so their guests don’t always see the same designs over and over. Guests will enjoy the seasonal designs, and
hosts will have all kinds of fun creating new looks for their table,” Winkler says. Bright colors are also trending as hosts break tra-dition by adding in splashes of bold hues that aren’t typically associated with the holidays. “In creating one of the table designs in our store, we mixed non-holiday pat-terns in shades of purple and metallic gold,” says Griffith. “These colors don’t readily suggest Christmas, but we were able to create a rich, fes-tive holiday feel by pairing these patterns with holiday accents. We filled glass bowls and compotes with rich-hued ornaments and incorporated gold finials in the table design. We created a centerpiece of silk florals
in complementary colors which pulled the design theme together. One of my favorite things about this table is we can easily tran-sition the look by replacing the gold hues with silver accents to create a table for our New Year’s celebra-tions.” Naturals are really popular again this year for both tabletop and holiday ornaments. Designs range from whimsical and folksy to more sophisticated and contemporary. Burlap offers great texture this season with manufacturers incorporating this mate-rial into everything from wire decorating ribbon to holiday accents. Griffith suggests using burlap for table runners or place mats and venturing outside to gather greenery such as ivy or magnolia leaves, berries and pine cones to use for your centerpiece. Vintage tableware con-tinues to be a driving trend. Griffith says many people are including heirloom pat-terns, passed through the generations, in their holi-day place settings to create a sense of family tradition, then mixing in newer pat-terns to infuse their own sense of style. He’s also seeing smaller objects - such as vintage cookie cut-ters or toys - used as decor accents or to trim the trees. Griffith says you see some of the design schemes his team is creating for the holiday season and find ad-ditional decorating ideas on Replacements’ Facebook page.
River View Observer Affordable Advertising
201-349-4336
Page22-December 15th,-December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
Real Estate BUY* SELL RENT* LEASE
201-823-2800
HOMESINBAYONNE.COM * HOMESINJERSEYCITY.COM * HOMESINHOBOKEN.COM
Check out Our Website for Thousands of Homes BETTERHOMESUS.COM Office Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm Saturday 10am to 4pm Sunday: By Appointment
185 Broadway Bayonne NJ
Bayonne –2 Family
This 2 family colonial home is in a prime location. Close to light rail,
NYC transportation and schools Contact listing agent Donna Kemec for all
appointments at 201-401-8462
Asking $269,000
NEW LISTING!
This This 1 family home is priced to sell. The home features 4 bedrooms, 2 bath-rooms, and enclosed porch on the rear of
the home leading to the backyard. Also, the location is great, close to light rail, shopping and Bayonne hospital.
Call listing agent Donna Kmec for all appointments 201-401-8462.
Now Asking $179,900
MUST SEE! Bayonne –1 Family Bayonne –1 Family
MUST SEE!!
This large 1 family home is on an oversized lot. It features a bright open floor plan,
formal dining room, delightful sun porch. On top of having, 3 bedrooms with 2 bonus rooms
great for den, office, or nursery. The enclosed porch at the rear of the home that
leads to a large backyard is a must see!! Walking distance to light rail, NYC transportation,
shopping, and schools.
This beautiful 1 family Dutch colonial is on a tree lined street in Bergen Point.
Old world charm, original woodwork, hardwood flooring, 2 fireplaces, and pocket doors.
New kitchen combines modern convenience with period style.
Great flow throughout this home. Perfect mother daughter set-up. Backyard offers large deck and
above ground pool and storage shed. Call listing agent Shelia Curtis at
201-240-4454.
Asking $389,000
NEW LISTING!
Bayonne –1 Family
Call listing agent Nancy Flanagan for all appointments at 201-988-6308
Asking $299,000
Page 23-December 15th-December 31st, 2014 River View Observer
Annette T. Rubin Broker Salesperson Ph# 201-424-1182
Office –201-437-0411 808 Broadway, Bayonne
(Betw. 36th & 37th Streets) “When you love what you do...It shows” www.exitonthehudson.com
EXIT ON THE HUDSON REALTY
BOATWORKS!
BAYONNE-NEW LISTING! BERGEN POINT - ONE FAMILY MOVE-IN CONDITION! Lovingly maintained and ready for the next owner to enjoy! This 3 BR starter is also a great “empty nester” layout; big Master BR, lots of closet space, modern eat-in kitchen, & laundry on the first floor!
Come see this charming home!
Asking $272,500
TOWNHOUSE CONDO W/ FIREPLACE! - BAYONNE
Stylish 2 BR, 2½ bath triplex features a fully renovated family room, cozy fireplace in the Living Room, hard-
wood floors, and all the amenities that this community offers for a carefree lifestyle!
Asking $349,900
IS YOURIS YOURIS YOURINSURANCE AGENTINSURANCE AGENTINSURANCE AGENT
FREE TO GET YOUFREE TO GET YOUFREE TO GET YOUA BETTER DEAL?A BETTER DEAL?A BETTER DEAL?A BETTER DEAL?A BETTER DEAL?A BETTER DEAL?
With access to many different providers, Trusted Choice® Independent Agents have more options at their fingertips. They can competitively shop around for you and put together
a plan that suits both your needs and your budget. The only one they answer to is you.
Find your independent agent. Find a better deal at trustedchoice.com
With access to many different providers, Trusted Choice® Independent Agents have more AN INDEPENDENT AGENT HAS FREEDOM OF CHOICE.AN INDEPENDENT AGENT HAS FREEDOM OF CHOICE.AN INDEPENDENT AGENT HAS FREEDOM OF CHOICE.AN INDEPENDENT AGENT HAS FREEDOM OF CHOICE.AN INDEPENDENT AGENT HAS FREEDOM OF CHOICE.AN INDEPENDENT AGENT HAS FREEDOM OF CHOICE.AN INDEPENDENT AGENT HAS FREEDOM OF CHOICE.AN INDEPENDENT AGENT HAS FREEDOM OF CHOICE.AN INDEPENDENT AGENT HAS FREEDOM OF CHOICE.AN INDEPENDENT AGENT HAS FREEDOM OF CHOICE.AN INDEPENDENT AGENT HAS FREEDOM OF CHOICE.AN INDEPENDENT AGENT HAS FREEDOM OF CHOICE.
Free to do what’s right for you.SM
Roger J Muller, JrMuller Insurance - Est 1906201-659-2403930 Washington StreetHoboken, NJ 07030www.mullerinsurance.com
LET’S TALK ABOUT WHAT FREEDOM OF CHOICE CAN DO FOR YOU.
NEW LISTING!
SHORT SALE
2 FAMILY UPTOWN - BAYONNE This 12 yrs young, contem-
porary home is not the typical 2 family property! Total of 5 BR and 4 1/2 baths, this home offers cathedral ceiling and skylights, fireplace in the owner’s unit, hardwood floors throughout, and so much more. Sale is subject to Third Party approval.
Asking $375,000
YES! OF COURSE WE DO RENTALS!
Our Rental agents are ready to assist you in your search
for a new apartment. Many of our listings offer part or full FEE PAID BY THE LANDLORD! We cover Bayonne, Jersey City,
Hoboken, North Bergen, Union City and more.
Call or stop in & register with our Rental staff.
NEW LISTING! NEW LISTING!
NEW LISTING!
NEW LISTING! NEW LISTING!
AFFORDABLE ALTERNATIVE ! STATELY 2 FAMILY “ON THE BLVD” - BAYONNE Owners duplex unit has 4 BR & 2 full baths, newer kitchen & hardwood floors; all newer windows, 2 car garage + driveway, full unfinished basement, & much more.
Asking just $399,000
Independently Owned & Operated by Annette Rubin
CONVENIENT 2 FAMILY UPTOWN - BAYONNE Prime commuter-friendly location close to 45th Street Light Rail; this property does need a little “TLC”, but offers terrific potential. Schools nearby & shopping is right around the corner!
Asking $289,900
TRADITIONAL 2 FAMILY DOWNTOWN BAYONNE This well kept home features newer kitchens & baths, newer sid-ing, windows, upgraded appliances, new wooden deck & privacy fencing, and much more.
Asking just $299,000
FULLY RENOVATED 2 FAMILY BERGEN POINT - BAYONNE Each 2 BR unit offers new plumb-ing, heating, and electric systems! Live here or invest – this downtown location is very convenient to transpor-tation, schools, and shopping!
Asking just $279,000
CONVENIENT 1 FAMILY MIDTOWN - BAYONNE Great opportu-nity! Prime mid-town area close to Shopping and Light Rail. This well kept 3 BR home with garage parking needs updating, but offers terrific potential.
Asking just $199,999
MOBILE HOMES BAYONNE
Several units are available now … 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms; each have a modern kitchen, laundry room, patio area and assigned parking spaces. Buy your home then pay only a modest monthly common services rental fee Owner must occupy- Rentals are not permitted. Call for more details
Prices start at just $9,000
UPDATED 1 FAMILY BERGEN POINT - BAYONNE This charming & comfortable 3 BR home offers a large modern eat-in kitchen, generous sized Master BR, hardwood floors, & spacious back-yard for extended living area. A pleasure to show!
Asking $272,500
FULLY RENOVATED - 3 FAMILY BERGEN POINT - BAYONNE All units renovated and updated just 4 years ago ! Fully
occupied – good rent roll, modest expenses, & close to schools, shopping, and 8th Street Light Rail station!
Asking $399,000
NEW LISTING! NEW LISTING!
From our Exit On The Hudson “family” to yours… We wish you Happiness, Good Health and some time
to relax & enjoy this beautiful season!