River View East: End of an Era

Anyone from Jersey knows we all have our favorite places for hot dogs. Italian hot dog? For me it was Dickie Dee's. A hot dog truck dog? I would go to JR's on Franklin Avenue in Nutley. If you wanted something really special, it was Rutt's Hut. For my husband, however, growing up in Elmwood…

Memorial Day 2022 Events

Memorial Day weekend is upon us and we all look forward to it for different reasons. For many it is a three day weekend. It is the unofficial kickoff to summer. It's barbeques, cold beer, and the beach. Actually, no, it really isn't. It is a moment to stop and honor and remember the fallen.…

Learning the History of the Lenni Lenape

When I was in fourth grade the entire year focused on New Jersey history. As much as I disliked Mrs. Stackfleth, I will say she was great at teaching the history of the Garden State. We spent a great deal of time learning about the Lenni Lenape, whose traditional territory spanned what is now eastern…

The End of an Era: The Fireplace

Over the last year or so, New Jersey has seen many wonderful businesses close for good. Last year I shared my memories of Rosebud's in Belleville, which closed forever. The independently-owned pharmacy I used for over a decade closed earlier this year. Now, I am sad to share the news of another closure; The Fireplace…

Italian Heritage in New Jersey: Bucky Pizzarelli

COVID-19 has certainly left us devoid from us this year. We’ve lost family, friends, and others we admire. One of those wonderful New Jerseyans of Italian heritage we lost to the virus is John Paul “Bucky” Pizzarelli. Born in Paterson in 1926 to the owners of a local grocery store, Pizzarelli picked up the guitar…

Italian Heritage in New Jersey: James Gandolfini

When many people think of Americans of Italian descent, they often think we are all in the mob, or “connected.” Many movies such as The Godfather add to the stereotype. Add to that shows like Jersey Shore, Housewives of New Jersey, and The Sopranos, and well… While many depictions in New Jersey and mob movies…

Going Old School in Jersey

My entire career has been focused on high tech. From prepress to IT to SEO, everything I've done has involved the latest in technology. I think that's why people are so surprised to hear I have analog hobbies. I fly fish, as well as tie my own flies. I do yoga, hike, crochet, felt, weave,…

The Importance of Protecting New Jersey History

As one of the original 13 colonies, New Jersey has a long and rich history. In 1620, a trading post was established at the site of Bergen, New Jersey, which would later be developed as the first permanent white settlement in the area. As time marches on, however, many of our oldest buildings are in…

Memorial Day Events 2017

Memorial Day weekend is upon us. While everyone enjoys an extra day off and barbecues, it is important to remember what the day is really about - remembering those who paid for our freedom with their lives. There are a number of events throughout the state where you can pay respect to these men and women we…

Independence Day Weekend Events in New Jersey

While most people in the tri-state area think the Macy's fireworks are the hot ticket for the Independence Day weekend, we in Jersey know better! Here are some great ideas to enjoy the long holiday weekend.