Volume 15, No. 12December 8th - December 19th 2011FREE PUBLICATION

201-349-4336

Pg. 2 On the Cover

Dinosaurs

Pg. 21 At the Movies

Pgs. 23 & 24

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Former Jersey City Mayor Frank Hague reigned over Jersey City from 1917 to 1947 and is still an enigma that haunts the city like the ghost of Hamlet’s father. It’s easy to imagine Hague walking the streets of Jersey City today in his three-piece suit, starched shirt collar and bowler hat, squinting up at the skyscrapers on the waterfront and saying to anyone in earshot, “I did that!” No Hudson County politician before or since has had an impact on Jersey City like Hague and a new book about the legendary politician just hitbookstores (and Amazon.com and Barnes&Noble.com) by writer/historian Dr. Leonard Vernon of Laurel, New Jersey. In “The Life & Times of Jersey City Mayor Frank Hague: ‘I am the law’,” (History Press;192 pgs.,) Vernon has compiled a tight biography chronicling the rise and fall of this politicallegend – and it’s a somewhat different perspective of the man than the one now featured in the HBO hit series, “Boardwalk Empire.”

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Two New Books, a Bio on Former Jersey City Mayor Frank Hague and a Fantasy about Bayonne – Online and in Bookstores

It has been written that Hague had a widely-known reputation for corruption and “bossism” and was nicknamed “the Granddaddy of Jersey bosses.” At the time of his death in 1956, he had amassed a $10 million dollar fortune even though he only earned $8,500 a year as mayor and had no other “on the books” income.

By Sally Deering

River View Observer – Page 2

on the cover . . .By Sally Deering

During the height of his power Hague’s political machine, known as “the organization,” was one of the most powerful in the nation. “The whole spin of the book is how he’s been demonized publicly and historically and a lot of it is not accurate,” Vernon says. “For instance, the accusations of voter fraud, you don’t win by voter fraud with 50-or-70, 000 votes. That’s organization. Before Excel spreadsheets and computers, this man ran his organization like no one could. That’s what his sustainability is attributed to. It’s an underappreciated trait of Frank Hague.” As for “Boardwalk Empire,” Vernon says the show

misrepresents Hague in several ways. “Frank Hague is a major character in ‘Boardwalk Empire,’” Vernon says. “In one scene, Hague is in a brothel and they show him with a prostitute on his lap and a drink in his hand, but the facts are opposite. I’m not one to judge his morality, but he never touched an alcoholic drink. He had a digestive problem, probably what we call GERD today. And Hague would not be caught dead with a prostitute. Hague’s major support was the Catholic Church, which was key to his organization. There was no way he would jeopardize that.” During his research, Vernon

Jersey City, all while putting his supporters to work. On October 2, 1936, a public holiday was declared in Jersey City, and all schoolchildren and city employees were asked, or possibly ‘required’ to attend the dedication of the new hospital. A crowd of more than 200,000 people was on hand to watch and hear President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Mayor Hague dedicate the new addition…” South of Jersey City lies the City of Bayonne, the subject of the new book “The Little Peninsula,” (Mazo Publishers; 262 pgs.,) by Ruth Dran, a retiree who lived in Bayonne for 20 years before moving to Jerusalem. A book geared for ages 12-90, “The Little Peninsula” is a fantasy about

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obtained Hague’s FBI file to learn exactly what, if anything, the government had on Hague’s alleged corruption. Vernon says in the file, there is never any mention of “extra-curricular” activities with women, something the FBI would have surely documented. “On the contrary,” Vernon says. “Hague would warn the men in his organization, do not be skirt-chasers because skirt-chasers get in trouble.” Vernon’s book features several photos of Hague including some with President Franklin D. Roosevelt who helped Hague build the Margaret Hague Maternity Hospital, an extension to the Jersey City Medical Center and named for Hague’s mother. During its tenure, the

Margaret Hague’s doctors and nurses delivered more than 250,000 babies. In this excerpt, Vernon writes about Hague’s more respected contribution to the people of Jersey City: “…At its peak of operation in the late 1950s more babies were born there than in any other hospital in the nation…The building accommodated four hundred mothers and babies and featured a stainless steel chandelier in the delivery room... All of the public rooms were done in aluminum and bronze. Along with several penthouses, there was a movie theater on the top floor. With the influx of federal funds via the WPA, Hague began to add to the complex, achieving the recognition of a man who brought first-rate healthcare to

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best they could. Humans from across the sea were not unknown to Big Owl…Sea Gulls kept generations of the Royal Owl Family well-informed of seafaring humans and their vessels and they knew in time they’d be visited upon. The owls kept the information confidential, always giving the same reason to their informers. ‘What is the wisdom in bringing fear and anxiety to our dear peninsula prematurely? We shall deal with the matter when the time comes.’ Big Owl eyed the ship with sadness. The time has come, he mouthed to himself.” Dran and Vernon’s books both offer a unique perspective. Vernon’s “The Life & Times of Frank Hague” is an interesting biography that paints a more informed portrait of the deeds of the former Jersey City mayor and Dran’s “The Little Peninsula” is a

con’t from pg. 2about the early settlement of Bayonne when Native Americans lived among the animals and just when the Dutch sailing ships discovered the land and settled there “Having had the pleasure of living in Bayonne spurned my imagination,” Dran says. “As I sat one day in Bayonne Park, enthralled by the beauty of the bay, the trees and all the living things surrounding me, my imagination soared in quantum leaps and bounds as I wondered what this peninsula might have been like before the arrival of explorers.” In “The Little Peninsula,” Dran gives voice to the peninsula and its inhabitants – both animal and human – as they coexist until explorers arrive. Animal characters, Big Owl, Old Woody, Admiral Sea Gull, General Pigeon, and their

friends devise methodsto deter the capture and takeover of their beloved peninsula. Adding to the conflict is a chance meeting between a Dutch boy and a young Lenape Indian who learn to overcome their suspicions of each other and team up to take on the challenges before them. Dran breathes life into the human and animal characters, like this scene where the animals first sense the Dutch explorers’ boats on the Hudson. “Billowing white-sheeted sails could be seen through the trees. Indians bending low proceeded to the Southern shore with caution. Deer froze in their tracks. Beavers went into hiding. Squirrels scampered up trees. Wolves took to the mainland. Woodpeckers ceased pecking. Burrowing animals went to their burrows. All others camouflaged themselves the

it was like to live in those cities back in the day – both real and imagined. For more info on “The Life & Times of Frank Hague,” go to www.historypress.net. For info on “The Little Peninsula,” visit www.thelittlepeninsula.com.

fictional fantasy that explores what life could have been like for the early settlers of Bayonne. The books may be different as night and day, but they offer a glimpse into the past of Jersey City and Bayonne and an interesting read for historians and anyone else who has wondered what

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Hudson Then...Again Arnold Wydeveld and August Will Two 20th Century Artists

From Hudson Coutny by Maureen Wlodarczyk

In the summer of 2010 we traveled to Ireland where I had arranged for my husband to go salmon fish-ing on the River Moy while I took watercolor painting lessons. Although a hob-byist painter using acrylics for years, I knew better than to try watercolors without instruction. With the close direction and assist of the instructor, two lovely paint-ings and some very pleas-ant memories resulted from those lessons in Ireland . . . and my husband bagged two fine Irish salmon as well. Since the days of cave paintings, humankind has used art to tell stories, communicate feelings and memorialize people, places and things.

In the mid-1800s, two men, each an immigrant artist with the initials A.W., settled in Hudson County as new Americans. One was a painter of cityscapes and bucolic local views, captur-ing the changing commu-nity around him for a half-century. The other painted still life, capturing vignettes of ripe peaches, grapes and strawberries posed grace-fully on a tabletop or a freshly-caught trout just off the hook. Who were these Hudson County artists? Arnold Wydeveld was born in Holland in about 1823 and came to America in the early 1850s. A bach-elor, he lived on Hudson and Palisade Avenues in Hudson City where he rented rooms that served as his studio and

sleeping quarters over the next half-century.Wydeveld painted still lives of fruit and flowers and fish studies. By the early 1860s his paintings were adver-tised at New York gallery auctions and were being col-lected by art connoisseurs such as Henry T. Chapman,

Jr. of Brooklyn. His work was exhibited at the National Academy of Design in New York, the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and the Brooklyn Art Association. Wydeveld was alternate-ly described as standoffish and peculiar, charming and possessed of a “beautiful character,” and mostly a mystery to Hudson County locals. He seemed to have a close friendship with Wil-liam Peter, the founder of the William Peter Brewery of Union Hill. Peter was a local artist and perhaps that was the basis of their long relationship. In 1905, at the age of 82, Wydeveld was struck by an express wagon while cross-ing a street in Lower

Still Life Painting by Jersey City

Artists Arnold Wydeveld

Manhattan and died three days later at Bellevue Hospital. It was reported that he asked for his friend Peter just before passing away. In fact, it was Peter who made the arrangements for Wydeveld’s burial in the Flower Hill Cemetery in North Bergen. Recent auc-tion records for Wydeveld’s work show asking prices in the $1,000 to $5,000 range.

August Will was born in Germany in 1834 and, like

Cont’d on page 7

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IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS! NJAA Charitable Fund’s 14 Annual Holiday Party to Entertain and Delight Underprivileged School Children from Throughout New Jersey

On Mon., Dec. 12th, Holi-day 9 a.m. – 3p.m. the Mead-owlands Exposition Center, 355 Plaza Drive Secaucus will be transformed into a winter wonderland filled with thousands of gifts, entertain-ment and yummy treats for the invitation only 14th Annual Children’s Party, hosted by the NJAA Charitable Fund. 1000 or more underprivileged children from across New Jersey will enjoy dancing, face painting, balloon art and even a visit from Santa Claus.

Association (NJAA) member companies have been collect-ing gifts since October and will volunteer their time on the day of the event to ensure that every child who participates not only has a great time, but leaves with a great gift they might not otherwise receive this year.Meadowlands Exposition Center.About The NJAA Charitable FundThe NJAA Charitable Fund was founded with the mission of using the collective resourc-es of the multi-family housing

The goal of the NJAA Chari-table Fund is a year round ef-fort made possible by the same members dedicated to provid-ing safe and affordable hous-ing to New Jersey families.About NJAAFounded in 1986, the New Jersey Apartment Association (NJAA) is a statewide orga-nization of apartment owners, managers, builders, developers and those involved in allied industries. The Association is designed to advance and protect the welfare of the apartment

industry to give back to the community. Through the NJAA Charitable Fund, Inc. NJAA’s members have the opportunity to participate in charitable events and donate their time and resources with generosity in mind.Since 1998, the NJAA hashosted a Holiday Party in De-cember for over 1,000 under-privileged children throughout the state. Members take on the commitment of collecting toys through office and property toy drives and volunteering theirtime to ensure every child has a day of fun.

industry in New Jersey. NJAA represents managers and owners of more than 170,000 rental units throughout the state as rental housing is home to over one-third of all New Jersey families. NJAA also serves its membership’s inter-est on a national level through its affiliation with the Na-tional Apartment Association (NAA). For more information about apartment home liv-ing in New Jersey along with NJAA events and activities visit www.njaa.com.

Jersey Cares On Winter Coat Drive Coat Donations will be Collected at City Hall Through Dec. 15th JERSEY CITY – Mayor Jerramiah T. Healy announced that the City of Jersey City has partnered with the volunteer organization Jersey Cares on the 16th Annual Jersey Cares Coat Drive to help needy Jersey City residents stay warm this winter. Clean, gently used coats in all sizes will be collected in a large bin at City Hall, 280 Grove Street, now through December 15th, 2011. Residents wishing to make donations can come to City Hall between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

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Hoboken Pianist “Pamela Ross” to Perform at Merkin Concert Hall in NYCBy Evelyn Bonilla Pianist Pamela Ross is no stranger to the big stages of New York City, having performed for 52 weeks on 42nd Street’s Theatre Row and stages throughout the U.S. and abroad she is an award-winning pianist, actress and writer. Her solo pieces on the piano and those played with an ensemble and other performers are “unique and special “in the way she delivers them. Ross has two award-winning one woman shows to her credit “Carreno” based on the tempestuous life of the great turn-of-the-century Venezuelan pianist, Teresa Carreno and “Goodbye Harry”-a tribute to her late father, both were written and performed by the talented Ross. On December 18, 2011, Ross will once again grace a NYC stage with her performance at Kaufman Center/Merkin Concert Hall. She will be performing with the amazing Russian Cellist “Adrian Daurov”. Daurov has received degrees from the Juilliard School of Music, and performs chamber music regularly in the New York City area. His string quartet, “VOXARE,” has received rave reviews and is the quartet-in-residence at Bargemusic. Currently he is the principal ‘cellist

with the Chamber Orchestra of New York. Together Ross and Daurov will perform two different concerts at Merkin Concert Hall; which will bring to life the works of Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Debussy, Shostakovich and others. Having performed together in the past they are deeply in tuned to each other and portray a wonderful flow of “exceptional classical music.” If you’re interested in listening to the extraordinary music of Pamela Ross and Adrian Daurov join them at Kaufman Center/Merkin Concert Hall in NYC on Decem-ber 18, 2011. There will be two performances which will take place at 3:00 pm & 7:00 pm. For “complimentary tickets”email:Evelyn Bonilla at evelyn.bonilla26@gmail.com Also to learn more about pianist Pamela Ross sign on to her website at www.pamela-ross.com and to learn more about Russian cellist Adrian Daurov visit www.voxarequartet.com

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WE SUPPORT THE ARTS

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Hudson Then ...Again Cont’d from page 4his contemporary Wydeveld, immigrated to America in the early 1850s. Will mar-ried in about 1855 and the couple had six children, not all of them surviving to adulthood. The family lived for many years on Belmont Avenue in Jersey City. Will began sketching views of Jersey City in the 1850s and continued to do so over the next five decades, often returning to a view he had previously drawn to sketch it again. As he rambled and sketched, he saw the growing, changing city and anticipated more of the same in coming years. That prescience resulted in a priceless visual record of Jersey City pre-urbanizationand pre-industrialization, done in multiple mediums

including watercolor and pen and ink. Will also taught art for over thirty years at his New York studio and was an accomplished commercial artist and illustrator whose work appeared in publica-tions such as Harper’s, Scribner’s and Century magazines. An active mem-ber of the Arts Club of Jersey City, he loaned his Jersey City images for exhi-bitions sponsored by that

acquired the prizedcollection. Today, more than a century after Wydeveld and Will made Hudson County their home, local artists and galleries continue to do the same, sharing their work and artistic vision with the community around them. Maureen Wlodarczyk is a fourth-generation-born Jer-sey City girl and the author of two books about life in Jersey City in the 1800s and early 1900s: Past-Forward: A Three-Decade and Three-Thousand-Mile Journey

Home and Young & Wicked: The Death of a Wayward Girl and has just announced that the third book in her Jersey City trilogy, Canary in a Cage, will be avail-able in a subscription series beginning in January, 2012. Find out more and subscribe at: www.canaryinacage.com

group in 1905, 1906 and 1907, and his work was also exhibited at the National Academy of Design. After more than fifty years of capturing scenes of his adopted home, Jersey City, Will died of heart dis-ease in1910 at his BelmontAvenue home and was laid to rest in the New York Bay Cemetery. He left a portfolio of over 100 Jersey City views with instructions that it should only be sold to the City. That happened in 1923 when the Jersey City Public

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In the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit

we would like to say congratulation to

Sarah and John for celebrating their son

Daniel’s first birthday December 14th, 2010

Love your grandparents:Marlien, Emad, Traez

and Barsoum and your aunts

Mary and Marlyn

JC FAMILIES’ 2011 KIDS HOLIDAY PARTY A 2011 Kids Holiday Party held on December 4th

organized by JCFamilies (www.JCFamilies.com), a vibrant community of

moms in and around Jersey City.

The 2011 Kids Holiday Party was organized at

Boca Grande (Washington Boulevard, Jersey City)

by a few of the group moms accoriding to

Mamta Singh Coordinator@jcfamilies.com.

More than 30 children and

and their parents attended the event.

Some of the events activies enjoyed by the

children were face painting live kid’s music and Santa’s visited with the children.

If you are interested inJCFamilies visit their

website at www.jcfamilies.com

The Readers’ Circle book group is a community event open to all book lovers. Bring a friend or make one. The group meets the 3rd Thursday of the month at 7:00pm in All Saints, 701 Washington Street, in Hoboken. Free coffee and cake is served. For more info write read-erscircle123@aol.com. January 19NEVER LET ME GOKazuo Ishiguro

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Meeting the Dinosaurs Photo by Steveamack.comField Station: Dinosaurs was introduced to the public on Sunday December 4th, at a press conference at Hudson County’s Laurel Park against the backdrop of a 150-million year old rock formation and within sight of the new attraction’s dramatic, untamed twenty-acre property.

300,000 annual visitors are expected to attend the exhibition which is scheduled to open in May 26th, 2012. The park will have 31 life -sized, animatronic (mechani-cally controlled) dinosaurs along trails that are natural with the 150 million year old rock formation. The exhibition will also have a dinosaur petting zoo. Guy G’Sell the exhibition’s creator said “ speaking about the location “It’s one of the few things in the area that dinosaurs (have) actually seen.”

see more photos at www.riverviewobserver.net

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Easing the Stress of Hosting Guests

During the Holiday Season

beverages and fixings for sandwiches on hand should your guests want something simple and easy. Check with guests in advance to deter-mine if anyone has a food allergy or alternately, a favorite snack you can stock up on.

Visit us on the web @www.

riverviewobserver.netfor more In Your Home

ARA) - Whether it’s for the holidays or another big occasion, hosting people in your home can be both gratifying and stressful. It can be especially tricky when you’re entertain-ing out of town guests for days at a time. By planning ahead, you can avoid some of the common pitfalls that can cause a gathering to go south in a hurry and ensure that both you and your guests have such a great time that everyone will be looking forward to the next get-together once it’s all over. Here are some common challenges of hosting guests at your home and solutions for getting around them:Problem: Overcrowding. Sharing space - particularly bathrooms and bedrooms - can cause conflict.Solution: Organize the chaos by setting out towels and mini bathroom toiletries

in guests’ rooms. You can develop a bathroom sched-ule for the morning so ev-eryone has time to get ready for the day and no one ends up going without a shower. Don’t be ashamed to admit that you don’t have the space to host overnight guests in your own home. Your guests will thank you for pointing them in the direction of a comfortable

hotel that feels like a home away from home, so they can spread out and have their own space. Consider an all-suites hotel brand like Embassy Suites Hotels, where guests get two-room suites with separate living and sleeping areas, freecooked-to-order breakfast and a free, nightly Manager’s Reception.Problem: Cabin fever. Guests become bored or restless at your home. Solution: No matter how much you love your friends and family, being crammed together in one house can make everyone a little stir crazy. If your guests are in town for a few days, con-sider a planned activity like bowling or visiting a local museum. These activities will offer some variety, as well as promote interaction and conversation among guests. It’s also a good idea to allow your guests some

time to explore on their own. Providing maps and brochures on local attrac-tions is a nice touch.Problem: Meals. Feeding multiple mouths can be a challenge. Solution: Don’t feel obliged to provide every meal while your guests are in town. It’s a good idea to have easy snacks,

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New Jersey Singer “Brady Cudmore” Makes a Difference in the Lives of OthersBy Evelyn Bonilla Brady Cudmore is a young talented New Jersey singer, songwriter and actor who has written and performed his music at concerts in Disney for D.A.R.E International, at the Pentagon in the “Hall of Heroes” and middle schools all over the country. His music is aimed at the younger generation and is filled with positive messages that speak against, drugs, alcohol, suicide, peer pressure and surviving in today’s society. Most recently Cudmore has teamed up with Steven Technology students to pro-mote a non-profit venture entitled, “Project Eleven”. Project Eleven was created by Ste-ven Technology students to raise awareness to the plight of many young soldiers’, men and women who are fighting to keep our country safe. Inspired by the stories of these young soldiers and Project Eleven’s initiative Cudmore wrote a song entitled, “Ocean Ave”. The song relates to a young boy whose parents are both in the military; its lyrics speak of changes and loss. Cudmore explains, “We all know someone who is in the war, or has been affected in some way by this. I have a good friend who’s in the armed forces and I see the changes that he goes through. It’s a high honor to be able to write a song that can influence and express the feelings of those that are fighting for our country.” When asked how he felt working with the Stevens Technology students and the Project Eleven initiative he explained, “They’re an amazing group of individuals, their insight and professionalism are to be admired”, I feel honored to be working with all of these brilliant students. It’s good to see that they care for those young soldiers out their fighting for our country’s protection and freedom.” Brady Cudmore is no stranger to the ranks of the military; joining forces with Smart Trax (a positive message media company) and Emmy Award winning music producer David Musial, he has taken his music and lyrics and performed in Washington in the prestigious “Hall of Heroes” and worked effortlessly with the “Young Marines”. He has been endorsed by Hopeline.com a North American charity for suicide prevention (1-800-SUICIDE) as their Teen Ambassador. In October of 2010 he performed at the National Convention for the United States Drug Enforcement Agency. There is no end to what this amazing young performer will do, he is dedicated to using his music to get positive messages out against the negatives aspects of society; and through his music he also hopes to teach the younger generation, that it is okay to stand up and be heard for what you believe in. Currently Brady Cudmore is hard at work on a new CD entitled, “R.O.I-Return on Investment”. Although he already has several CD’s to his credit, this particular CD is a work of true dedication, mostly in part because he has written every single song, recorded it and arranged it himself. It is a collaboration of Indie Pop/Dance and is due for released in spring of 2012. Time has no limit for this young talented artist his dedication and his goal of making a differ-ence in the lives of others is something to be admired. There are still so many things to come from this enthusiastic performer and we can be sure that all of New Jersey and New York will be front and center to see what it is.

“SEVEN IN THE GARDEN” GROUP SHOW OPENSSATURDAY, DEC. 10, AT GALLERY 1200Local art gallery and community space announces its second show, eaturing seven urban artists inspired by nature Gallery 1200 is pleased to announce its second show, “Seven in the Garden,” which opens Saturday, Dec. 10, with a free reception from 7 – 9 p.m. The exhibi-tion of works by seven different artists — united by their use of botanical or organic elements — is curated by Cuban-born artist Carlos Rodriguez Cárdenas in collaboration with Gallery 1200 director Laura Renée Meyerson. The exhibition will be on view through Janu-ary 12, 2012. The gallery is open weekdays from X – X pm, and on weekends from X am – X pm. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.

This holiday season, support your local art community! Saturday, December 10th, noon–5pm 150 Bay Street, Downtown Jersey City Art Sale**Muriel Favaro: Gift Wrap & Jewelry • Robert Koch: Functional Stoneware Pottery Lynda D’Amico: Hand-Painted T-shirts & Bowls • Robert Kogge: Paintings •Karen Fuchs: Photography • Pamela Mijal: Paintings • Dolores Jansen: Ceramics Julie Lomba: Paintings • Keith VanPelt: Stained Glass & Custom Hats Shawn Lang: Paintings • Ananda Handmade Jewelry Ann Giordano: Photography • Eliza Neals: CD’s & After Party!**

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Bayonne Chamber of Commerce 2nd Annual

“CHAMBER To CHARITY”

Holiday EventTuesday December 13, 2011 5pm to 8pm At Da Noi 1105 Avenue C, Bayonne(Valet Parking Available)Bayonne, NJ- Throughout the Holiday season there are many collections to provide toys to the children of our less fortu-nate areas, but there are many people right here in our town that are going hungry. Our local Food Pantries are being steadily challenged, and the need far surpasses the sup-plies. The Chamber of Com-merce will donate all proceeds of this event to the local food pantries and soup kitchens. Last year’s event raised over $3,000 to distribute – and this year’s goal is to double that amount. This event is a great opportunity to network with fellow business associates in a relaxed and cordial atmosphere. Join us in supporting this very worthy effort to give a little help to those who need it so much.

HUDSON HAPPENINGS... This is a “win-win” situation for all parties, and just in time to raise your Holi-day spirit as well! There is an entry fee of $25 per person, paid by either a Grocery store Gift Card or your check payable to the Bay-onne Chamber of Commerce. Receipts will be available upon request. (Additional donations will also be welcome!) Donations may also be mailed directly to the Chamber to PO Box 266, Bay-onne, NJ 07002 Sponsorships (Tax–deductible, of course) are available at several levels: $100 – Bronze SponsorshipYour name mentioned in our signage at the door & ac-knowledged in a “Thank You” letter

$250 – Gold SponsorshipYour logo in our entry signage, Letter acknowledgement, & a small table available for your promotional items

$500 – Platinum Sponsorship.

Your logo in our entry signage, Letter acknowledgement, small table available for your promotional items, & op-portunity to make a company presentation

4OTH Anniversary of the HomecomingLandmark Loews Jersey Theater

December 2nd, 2011

Picutred above: from left to right;John wamsley as Jason, Richard Thomas as Jon Boy, Judy Norton as Maryellen, Eric Scott as Ben, Mary McDonough as Erin, David Harper as Jim Bob, Kami Cotler as Elizabeth. On December 2nd at the Landmark Loews Jersey Theater in Jersey City a Walton Family Reunion was held to celebrate the 40th anniversary of The Homecoming the original movie that became the basis for the popular

television show.Several cast members attended the reunion. Richard Thomas, Judy Nor-ton, Mary McDonough, David Harper, Jon Walmsley, Kami Cotler, Eric Scott and Michael Learned.

The event started with a tribute to the beautiful Patricia Neil who played the mother in the movie “A Christmas Story”

All Photos by Steveamack.com

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Messiah Sing ConcertDeBaun Center & St. Matthew Trinity Lutheran Church Joint Holiday VentureSunday, December 11, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Matthew Trinity Lutheran Church, Eighth and Hudson Sts. in Hoboken, NJ.

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH “SONGS FOR A WINTER NIGHT”Hoboken Women’s Choir Presents 10th Anniversary Winter Concert on Dec. 10 at 7:30 p.m. St. Matthew Trinity Church at 57 Eighth Street (at Hud-son Street) in Hoboken, N.J. The suggestion donation for the concert is $15 ($5 for seniors and students).

KENNEDY DANCERSANNUAL HOLIDAYDANCE CONCERTSt. Joseph’s School for the Blind 76 Summit Ave.Jersey City Fri. Dec 9th and Sat. Dec. 10th, at 7:30 pmAdults $20 including se-niors Chidren $15 ages 12 and under. Call 201-659-2190

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restaurant VIEWSP.J. Ryan’s Pub, Welcome to the Neighborhood!

Jersey City’s Barrow Street Just Got Happier

By Sally Deering On a recent rainy after-noon, I was walking along Barrow Street in Jersey City when I saw a beacon of light shimmering in the mist. Eager to come in from the rain, I hurried along until I came to the corner of War-ren and Barrow Streets and P.J. Ryan’s Pub, a beautiful neighborhood bar reminis-cent of the Irish pubs across the pond. I entered, shook off the rain and was immediately

of the many Smithwick’s, imported Irish beers offered at the bar. And, I have to admit, she was right. Trendy is not what P.J. Ryan’s Pub is all about. It’s a place to drink with friends, watch sports on one of the seven big screen TVs, mix and mingle. The intimate atmosphere features low-lighting and a beautiful – and huge – dark wood bar that goes from one end of the pub to the other and has plenty of seats.

There are tables and chairs for couples and small groups to drink and dine over conversation and glimpse the world outside through floor to ceiling windows that offer a view of the neighborhood brown-stones and, in return, givepassersby the chance to see what’s happening inside. And even though P.J. Ryan’s Pub feels like it’s been a fixture in the neighborhood, it just recently opened.

greeted by bartender,Lindsay Stipanovich, who offered me a seat and a drink to warm my spirits. It didn’t take long for me to feel cozy in this low-lit corner bistro, a welcoming respite for the work-a-day weary and neighborhood thirsty who want a stiff drink, some tasty food and an atmosphere where they can relax and unwind. “We’re not trying to be Hoboken,” Lindsay said, pouring me a pint of one

. (For those of you familiar with its Grove Street neigh-borhood, P.J. Ryan’s Pub is located where Winston’s Tavern used to be.) P.J. Ryan’s Pub menu is a one-pager of Starters, Soups, Salads, Sandwiches, Entrees, Sides and Desserts. A concise menu that Chef Michael Kirwan says will be expanding as the pub settles in. Starters include St. Kil-lian Cheese Wedges, three Irish stout beer-battered cheese wedges and a side of chipotle mayo; Spicy Buffa-lo Wings, Nachos, Organic Hummus and Pita; Mac and Cheese Balls, Grilled Veg-gie Plate and Homemade Potato Skins. Soups feature

Cont’d on page 19

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restaurant VIEWS Cont’d from page 18 -PJ Ryan’s

Potato Leek; and Turkey and Chorizo Chili. Salads are a choice of Spinach, Arugula & Pear; Classic Caesar; and Portabella. The Sandwich menu offers hearty selections including the PJ Burger; Grilled Chicken; Veggie; and an Irish Corned Beef Melt. Entrees are Dublin’s Classic Fish ‘n’ Chips; Irish Sheppard’s Pie; Chicken Pot Pie; and a Guinness Infused Bangers and Mash. For sides, you can order Baked 3 Cheese Mac & Cheese; Beer Battered French Fries; Lumpy Mashed Potatoes; and a Fresh Field Green Salad. There’s also a Dessert of the Week. During my visit, I tried a Soup Special – Mushroom – which was absolutely delicious and made with Button Mushrooms and seasoned with roasted garlic, thyme and other ingredients. A tasty, light and hearty soup, it immediately took the chill off a cold, rainy day. I also

tried the Corned Beef Melt – and asked if it was okay to have it without the cheese and Lindsay said, “Sure, why not?” The corned beef arrived warm on a bed of rye and the meat was lean and seasoned to perfection. My Irish grandma would do a jig for this sandwich. And it’s hard to eat corned beef without a beer to wash it down, so I ordered the Smithwick’s made by Guinness. It was cold, frothy and poured to perfection. P.J. Ryan’s also has an outdoor area with tables for those who like a smoke with their drinks – and even though I think it’s great that restaurant-goers no longer have to suffer second-hand smoke; P.J. Ryan’s is to be congratulated for offering smokers a place to sit, sip and puff a ciggy. As I mentioned, there are seven big screen TVs through P.J. Ryan’s and wherever you turn, you’ll likely see some sporting event broadcast. There’s a dart board in the corner at the far-end of the bar and if you’re looking for some nostalgia check out the old postcards of Jersey City back in the day on the restrooms’ walls. Reviews are already being posted on the internet like this one from Peter K. of New York City: “This great new corner location, perfect for a neighborhood watering hole has a variety of pretty great beer on tap...The long bar was well equipped with enough friendly staff to get served within 20 seconds on a busy Thursday night. They have an excellent selection of spirits as well! We indulged in a Hudson whiskey to treat ourselves...There are enough seats surrounding the bar and with banquets lining the parameter windows, still allowing circulation to move back and forth. The gated back terrace allows those who still smoke mingle and huddle together on a cold night….There are enough large screened TVs at each corner of your head to look and watch the game com-fortably. Is it a true 5 star place? It can be… It is clean, had a blast, and looking forward to come back when I am in the area.” Next time you’re looking for a great place to see a game, catch up with friends or just unwind from a busy day, check out P.J. Ryan’s Pub, just a block off Grove Street. It’s a welcome addition to one of Jersey City’s nicest neighborhoods.

P.J. Ryan’s Pub 292 Barrow StJersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 333-8753

www.pjryansjc.com • Contact: info@pjryansjc.com

The Bayonne Economic Opportunity Foundation (BEOF) an-nounced that it will host a Christmas Dinner on Sunday, December 25, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Back Bay Gardens, 535 Avenue A. BEOF Executive Director Ana Quintela said the dinner is for those Bayonne individuals and families who do not have anywhere to go for the holiday. Tickets are required for this dinner, so that the organizers can provide the appropriate amount of food. There is no charge for the tickets. Dinners will also be available through the BEOF’s Meals on Wheels program. The meals will be provided by the Little Food Café of Bayonne, thanks to the financial sponsorship of BCB Community Bank. Mayor Mark Smith said, “I would like to thank the BEOF, Little Food Café, and BCB Community Bank for working together on this event. This dinner is a sign of Bayonne’s generosity in this holiday sea-son.” He continued, “All residents should be proud of what the BEOF, the bank, and the café are doing to help those in need at this special time of year.” Tickets will be available at the BEOF’s main office at 555 Ken-nedy Boulevard, and at the nutritional programs at 535 Avenue A and 16 West 4th Street. Please pick up tickets by Friday, December 16. For information, please call Lori at the BEOF at 201-437-7222, extension 13. The BEOF is Bayonne’s community action agency. BCB Community Bank is headquartered in Bayonne, and has branches in Bayonne, Jersey City, Hoboken, and Monroe Township. Little Food Café of Bayonne is located on Kennedy Boulevard and 10th Street, and serves breakfasts, lunches, and dinners.

BEOF To Host Christmas Day Dinner With Help From BCB and Little Food Café

Planning Christmas dinner: The Bayonne Economic Opportunity Foundation (BEOF) will offer a Christmas Day dinner with the sup-port of BCB Community Bank and the Little Food Cafe. Pictured left to right: Catherine Laszkow (Treasurer, BCB Community Bank), Donald Mindiak (President, BCB Community Bank), Ana Quintela (Executive Director, BEOF), and Lisa Kushnir, (Owner, Little Food Cafe).

© STARGAZINE 2011stargazine1@aol.com stargazingonline.com

J Banta Lewis Stargazing 709 BroadwayAt 32nd Street Since 1996

201-339-4555

Month of December 2011 by J. Banta Lewis

ARIES (March 21 - April 19)Just in time to coincide with the Holidays, Christmas cheer, and the end of 2011, you will reconstruct your hopes and wishes, in accordance with the 11th house. Great changes are in store for you in 2012. You will succeed with a positive attitude and faith in the future Go forward with confidence as the stars will aid you in this time of transformation.

TAURUS (April 20 - May 20)12th house energies with Jupiter in your sign indicate wistful reminiscence of days gone by. This time, however, the ghosts of Christmas past will bring joy instead of fear. Finally, you are able to accept the part your sometimes stubborn nature may have played in hurtful issues. Going forward, you are transformed and vow to avoid similar energy traps. A new enlightened and peaceful Bull is the result. Happiness returns!

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)You will be filled with love and optimism this holiday season as Gemini is placed on the ascendant in your solar chart. You will shine like the brightest Christmas light at parties and events. People will stare and make adoring comments as you walk in the room. This is the beginning of a great period as you are finally noticed for your charm and beauty. Enjoy as your energy has returned.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)The Holiday season takes you by surprise as you may be tempted to shop till you drop. Remember to purchase gifts with your head not over it, as energy in the 2nd house of finance advises caution. Look for those bargains and you will have a happy beginning to 2012. No matter what your income, it is wise in this economy to think before you buy.

LEO (July 23 - Aug. 22)This month will be filled with social gatherings and astral advice suggests you take all opportunities to make amends with any family member who has been estranged. A wall of ice will melt if you just try to forgive. No great apologies will be exchanged only a rekindling of love. The spirit of Christmas is alive and well in the Lion’s heart.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept.22)Mars in the 4th house as we enter December indicates caution with your temper as quarrels may be on the horizon. The holidays put pressure on many of us to have everything perfect and it becomes easy to overreact without thinking. Hold back your critical nature and you will be able to enjoy the festivities without tension. Happy Holiday’s!!

LIBRA (Sept. 22 - Oct. 22)A 5th house Saturn may have you tempted to gamble and possibly lose big. This lack of reserve may not be played out in a casino but with a love interest or business project. Caution is the theme of December as your usual balanced judgment may be skewed. There will be time in the future to romp and play but now stay safe and secure and don’t push your luck.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21)All and all, the holiday season usually indicates a celebration of the past year and a decision to make the next year even better. 6th house issues are in the forefront and there is a tendency for you to feel overworked and underappreciated. The astral advice suggests you take time to relax and avoid the near occasions of stress. Happiness and calm return in the New Year.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21)The freedom loving Archer may meet their love match in the month of December. Your solar return and activity to the 7th house of partnerships may find you involved with love and considering settling down. You attract someone who does not restrict your freedom but understands and enjoys it with you. Those already attached Archers renew or otherwise rekindle their relationships. Ain’t love grand!

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19)8th house issues may find you involved in projects to change where you live or revamping an existing place. Profits will begin in December but will continue into the New Year. The focus of 2012 is transforming your surroundings and thereby changing your life path. Some books about feng shui or interior design would make the perfect Christmas gift for yourself. Live, love, decorate.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb 18)Bosses and co-workers seem to be out of sorts with the season. Are you the only one who smiles in the workplace? It just may be your duty to help create a holiday atmosphere for your friends and family. Doing a few good deeds gives others joy. The blessings of the season are abundantly bestowed and returned to your door. Happy Holidays!

PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 20)In the past you seemed attached to a person for all the wrong reasons. Insecurity is never a good basis for a relationship. What starts in fear will end in folly. You are a wonderful child of the universe and this holiday season the astral advice suggests you remember that simple fact. Don’t allow anyone to take advantage of your kind nature. Wishing you happy season as you deserve the best.

STARGAZINE

River View Observer – Page 20

Visit www.njrockstar.comfor video & photo coverage of our weekly FUN Fridays partyat The West Five Supper Club!

To book a holiday party, celebrate a birthday or special occasion or to make a table reservation e-mail

info@njrocktar.com or callFun Anthony at 201-320-3761 today!

Movies Page 21 River View Observer

Page 22 River View Observer

The Original Frank Sinatra Birthday Bash Party 2011

Sunday December 11th, 4PMTutta Pasta Lounge,

200 Washington St. Hoboken 201-792-2233

Throughout Frank Sinatra’s career he perform the song “Chicago” singing the lyr-ics-”My kind of town... Chi-cago is, my kind of town.” While Chicago might of been his song, Hoboken was his town, his roots. And that’s why Hoboken never forgets it’s favorite son on his birthday. As in past years Hoboken will become party Sinatra central this coming weekend with many de-voted Sinatra fans coming to Hoboken to join in the celebration. On Sunday December 4th

people last year. Also on Monday December 12 Sinatra’s actual birthday, at 10 am the City Clerk’s office in Hoboken’s City Hall will cut a special cake provided by Carlo’s Bakery, the cake will be cut by James Farina an heir to one of the original Hoboken Four, the singing group that help jump start Sinatra’s early career. Sinatra passed away on May 14th, 1998 and had he lived would of turned 96 on Monday December 12th.For more info www.franksi-natrasbirthdaybash.com

Tutta Pasta Lounge located at 200 Washington Street will host the annual Frank Sinatra Birthday Bash featuring a great Sinatra Italian Menu which will include many of Mr. Sinatra’s Favorite Dishes and Foods. This years 2011 celebration will be hosted by featured Jazz vocalist, Eric DeLauro, who is especially know as a singer of Sinatra Tribute music concerts for which he has won awards and contests on National network television and performed to 5 Million

Page 23 River View Observer

Looking for Experienced Hair Stylist

to work in popular Bayonne Salon

Call 201-437-1700