Family and friends are grieving the sudden death Thursday night of 21-year-old Montclair resident Michael Parlapiano, a sophomore at Champlain College in Vermont. According to a report on NJ.com, witnesses said Parlapiano collapsed and became unresponsive at an off-campus party.
Baristanet joins the community in mourning this untimely death. We ask that commenters show kindness in respect for Parlapiano and his family.
How long does it take to set your clocks back an hour? If you've got tons of time-keeping devices in your home, like our photo editor, Fran Liscio, you'll lose more than an hour tonight.
Say goodbye to daylight savings time before you go to bed. If you're confused about what time it really is, you can always check here.
The end of Daylight Savings Time is also time to put fresh batteries in home and office smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
A tip of the mask to Caldwell for turning Bloomfield Avenue lampposts there into a Halloween version of the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade. Go take a look before the Charlie Brown, Spiderman and Dorothy come down, making way for whatever's next. Reindeer? Snowflakes?
Photos and slide show by Elizabeth Garcia.
Editor's note: We sent our intrepid photo editor, Fran Liscio, to snap people watching the Yankees game the other night. But a few other things caught her eye.
Some people like to watch their baseball from their couch. Others prefer the conviviality of their neighborhood bistro. I visited five fine Baristaville establishments during the Yankee's Thursday night win against the Phillies and have color-coded them into a slide show thusly: Sepia toned: Charlie Browns, Color: Tierney's, Black and White: Egans. Holga'd-black corners: Halcyon, Super-saturated color: Erie Saloon at Walnut Street Train Station.
Continue reading "Watching Mermaids, and the World Series, With Fran" »
October 29, 2009 Dear Councilor Africk:We, the undersigned residents of the 2nd Ward were disappointed to learn that you are supporting the effort to change to an elected school board with annual school budget votes. As your constituents, we support retaining our current appointed school board. We urge you to reconsider your position and join with those who are committed to preserving our schools and our school system.
Africk's response (of course), after the jump.
Continue reading "2nd Ward Constituents Petition Africk on BOE Question" »
Glen Ridge sports fans will have to wait for the field to dry out before they can cheer high school football at Hurrell Field. Tomorrow's game has been changed to an away game, but JV is scheduled for Monday and the high school varsity team is scheduled to play there next Saturday.
So says Michael Rohal, Glen Ridge Borough manager. Turns out there's a problem with the gazillion dollar upgrades made to the field this summer. Rohal says there are drainage problems, which only recently became apparent, after heavy downpours.
He's not sure if the problem stems from a design flaw or improper installation, but the borough's hired three independent consultants to find out. When the studies are completed, says Rohal, they'll fix the problem -- but not at taxpayer's expense. Approximately 40% of the contract funds have been withheld, so there's cash in the bank.
Over at the Essex County Presby Memorial Iris Gardens this afternoon, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. In addition to cider, cookies, free pumpkins and a chance to see jack-o-lanterns glowing around the iris beds, the Essex County Turtleback Zoo is scheduled to stop by with some fun animals, too. Come with or without a jack-o-lantern to light. It's free and all are welcome. For more info, hop over here on Baristakids.
Pumpkin-lighting at Presby Iris Gardens today: 4-7 p.m. Bring your carved pumpkins to light up the gardens! Hot cider and fun for the family. After you're done, get over to the Haunted House at Edgemont Park.
In a panic because you're without a disguise for tomorrow night? You could run over to Montclair Art Museum, and go green using recycled bits to create your scary look, 1-4 p.m... Or, you can just face your fright, at Bangz. Halloween makeovers for all guys and ghouls, from girlie to ghastly. You'll have to sit still for about an hour, and it costs $65 - $100 depending on how scary you get. Now, through Sunday, Nov. 1. Appointments: (973) 746-8426. BYOB (bring your own blood, glitter - call to see what you'll need).
Gotta love that MFEE...they're always on to something good, while raising money for Montclair Schools.
MFEE is selling raffle tickets to win a big weekend at Superbowl XLIV for two. The odds of winning are pretty good, as only 300 tickets are being sold, at $100 a pop. The winner will get round trip airfare for two to Miami, two tickets to the game on Feb.7, 2010, four nights at the Hyatt Regency Pier 66 Resort & Spa in Fort Lauderdale, and a rental car for the entire stay.
Today, they announced another prize included in the weekend package: two VIP tickets to the "it" party, "The Event," hosted by ESPN.
To buy a ticket, download the entry form here. Then send it in to MFEE and they'll send you the raffle tickets. The drawing will be held on Monday, Dec. 21 at a Monday Night Football party hosted by Egans, 7:30-10:30 p.m. It's a cash bar event, but Egans is providing a free buffet, and the public is invited. Devils and Yankee tickets as well as sports memorabilia will also be raffled. Questions? Call Lois or Robin at MFEE, 973 509-4021.
Speaking of fundraising, a big congrats to MFEE/Parents Who Rock, who raised $100,000 for MFEE at the amazing party last Saturday night. Not even the torrential downpour could dampen their spirits!
Cats and kittens are living in comfortable new surroundings at Montclair Animal Shelter, formerly known as PAWS. The feline interns are all out of their cages (except sick ones) enjoying freedom to play, run, climb, crawl and socialize in two open rooms. "They're happy," says Lindsay, the attendant on duty yesterday.
Shelter Director Melissa Neiss says the town asked MSU students in the Industrial Design program under Prof. Denis Feigler, PhD, to submit ideas for cat-friendly habitats. One of the winning plans is the basis for a '"streets of Montclair" decorated room - where adult cats hang out. A second design - a colorful kitty playground with its own playhouse - was chosen for the larger room housing rambunctious kittens. The student designs were provided free of charge...And on the doggy side of the building, there are two "hotel rooms" with blanket, mini couch, and lamp for dogs with special needs.
There's a really spooky event shaping up over at the Edgemont Fieldhouse, today, Friday, from 5pm to 9pm. 20 actors are rehearsing and practicing their screeches for a really fun evening. Stage and set designer/director Cary Yacono is the creative force directing the construction (she's the smiling blond lady with the ball point pen clipped to her t shirt in the slide show below). It's sponsored by Montclair's Recreation and Cultural Affairs Dept. and this is their first ever "Spooktacular" - enjoy the creepy haunted house, then take a 'ghostly hayride' around the park. The tour will be limited to children between the ages of 6-15, and admission is $3. Click here or here for more info. And then...
Continue reading "Visit Edgemont's Haunted Fieldhouse, Get a Haunted Hayride!" »
Duane "D" West was hired to kick football players' grades up a notch at Montclair High School. How much does he cost? Roughly the same as a 2007 Porsche 911. Find out the exact amount at Barista Kids.
The headline is not ours -- it comes from the the title of panel discussion brought to you by the Adult School of Montclair, focusing on the changing world of journalism. The discussion takes place this Monday, Nov. 2, from 7:30-9 p.m. at Montclair High School; tickets are $15.
New Jersey newspapers are reducing the number of experienced reporters on their staffs and cutting news coverage. How will their readers keep abreast of statewide news in the coming years? Will the internet become a substitute for the printed word? Who will serve as the watchdog, providing critical indepth reporting on state and city governments?
Discussing all this end of the world stuff are news providers -- Jim Willse, editor, The Star-Ledger; former editor and publisher, New York Daily News; John Hassell, vice president for content, Advance Internet, a national online news media company that produces www.NJ.com; Dunstan McNichol, founder, www.NJ Spotlight.com, a new statehouse website; former reporter, The Star-Ledger; and Kent Manahan, former senior anchor, NJN news.
There's a new face on the block: the Bellevue Avenue building housing Falafel Hut, Tony's and Village Laundry went from blah to beautiful. They lost the 50's look in favor of the Tudor theme which dominates Upper Montclair shopping district..Around the corner on Valley Road, another gift boutique graces the block. Sweet Home Montclair's window announces chocolates, confections, and curiousities. They'll be opening in a few days, and are right next door to Well Appointed Personal Accents.
Signs in the former Baby Boom announce that The Baby Registry by Diapers.com is taking over the primo retail location, but we haven't heard a whisper about it. Tell us what you know...Sappro II, a Japanese restaurant will be taking over the former Dai Kichi Daruma hibachi house.
In case you're in the 'hood, stop by New York Sports Club on S. Park St. in Montclair this Friday at 9:30 a.m. for the Health Nut Fair.
Local nutritionist Gabrielle Rabner, M.S., R.D., will be talking about her new book, Delicious Real Food. Even better, she'll offer free samples for people to try. Speaking of samples, Gina Medina from Gina's Pies will also be on hand--I hear she makes vegan, sugar-free pies that melt in your mouth without blubbering up your behind.
Stop by for sales and deals from Shaklee natural nutrition and also Mary Kay. Word is, if you spend $50 on a Mary Kay membership, you get 50 percent off her cosmetics--like forever.
This is definitely a fun way to procrastinate on Friday. You don't have to be a NYSC member to attend. The event was organized by Angel Williams, hip hop and step and Thriller zombie dance instrustor.
But if you are a member, drop your child off on Saturday for a free kids' Halloween party from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. NYSC babysitters will serve cupcakes and parade the wee ones in their costumes.
Looking for some grown-up scary fun this Halloween? There's a All Hallow's Eve Costume Party at the Charles Shultz House (Evergreens) on Friday, Oct. 30, from 7-10 p.m. The night's "treats" include light refreshments, wine, spooky music, and a behind-the-scenes tour of newly-restored, never-before-open rooms (the pantry, bedrooms on the second floor, Charles Shultz's workshop on the third floor). Prizes will be awarded for the most original, most zany, most frightening costumes and more. The cost for members is $25; non-members is $35. Limited spaces are still available. Call 973-744-1796 to reserve your spot.
Then there's the Haunted Halloween House at 77 Midland Avenue (between Claremont & Walnut) in Montclair. "Unhappily Ever After," begins at 8 p.m. with a wedding gone very bad...
The scary story of what happened when thebroomgroom killed the bride and the rest of the wedding party, too! Watch out...the Groom is still on the loose!
Want to know what to do with your little goblins? Check out Barista Kids unofficial guide to trick or treating in Baristaville. Tell us your Halloween plans, including the kind of candy you bought so far, in comments, and whether you subscribe to Zillow's candy theory here.
Detectives seized a 9 mm handgun, 2BB guns, brass knuckles, 2 pair of nun chucks, 3 folding knives, as well as 8 zip-lock bags of crack/cocaine and 1 small bag of marijuana from a single family home on Mission Street in Montclair early yesterday morning. According to Deputy Chief Todd Conforti, entry was gained to the residence by members of the Critical Response Team, who found several individuals inside including a 3 year old and an infant child.
This Sunday, Nov. 1, party with Outpost in the Burbs as they presents their 2009 Fall Benefit Gala: Woodstock (40 Years) After-Party.
Come support the Outpost, from 3 - 7pm at Trumpets Jazz Club (6 Depot Sq, Montclair) and help Montclair's hometown nonprofit organization continue to thrive. Live music, food, bar, silent auction featuring items from local merchants, and special guest Pete Fornatale.
Tickets are $50 (one drink included); email SteveCutaia@outpostintheburbs.org or call 973-744-6560 to reserve tickets, or purchase them at Keil's Pharmacy or Church Street Kitchen.
Montclair's Yogi Berra joined kids from Hillside and Northeast Schools earlier this week. Find out why on Barista Kids.
I was catching up with friends on Facebook when someone posted info on a NJ swine flu clinic. We piled into the car in a hurry, and now we're H1N1 vaccinated. Find out where to get your H1N1 antidote on Barista Kids.
What with the unpredictable soggy weather, we still made several trips in and out of state over the past weeks to soak in the autumnal glory of NJ and NY, but delayed our pumpkin shopping till the last minute. I observed with interest this week that only a handful of neighbors have displayed their pumpkins as yet, and several friends have raised discussions on where to get them.
Preferring a holistic pumpkin-and-squash experience rather than a grocery-centered one, I headed out recently to a nursery near Montclair, just a minute's drive into Verona. There I found the condensed Hillcrest Farms, providing a tastefully concentrated farm experience bursting with pumpkins, ornamental cabbage, late-blooming daisies, squash of all kinds, colors, shapes and sizes and chrysanthemums, too.
Some parents are peeved about police pouncing with parking tickets where parking is not allowed. Find out Barista Kids.
Forget ghouls and ghosts. Mothers, daughters, sisters and friends, gather round, it's a Night Out for Goddesses on Friday, from 7 p.m., at The Karuna Shala in Glen Ridge.
In a celebratory event just for women, there will be movement led by one of the Karuna Shala's best teachers, a ceremony for abundance, henna - or mehndi - painting for all, tarot card readings, all rounded off with treats and tea.
Every goddess needs time to herself, to release her worldly worries, to dance, sing, stretch, breathe and relax. Pamper yourself in the fellowship of other women and join the Karuna Shala staff for a wonderful ritual evening of sacred mantra, mudra, asana and meditation.
See here for details.
The Karuna Shala~ Yoga & Bodywork Studio
855 Bloomfield Ave, 2nd Fl, Suite 208
Glen Ridge, NJ 07028
973.743.1211
Somebody call Joe DiVincenzo quick, so he can sit these young whippersnappers down and give them a stern talking to. How soon before Conan and Cory Booker get dragged in, too? Watch for cameos of the Turtle Back Zoo and Stagg Field in West Orange. Tne band is GDP, the song is Orange Water. Give us your review in comments.
Montclair Police say vandals were busy spraying graffiti on cars, sidewalks and doors during the night of Oct. 22 into early morning on Oct. 23. Fourteen incidents in total were reported, mostly by residents who awoke to find damage to their property on the morning of Oct. 23.
Orange spray paint was used on the sidewalk at Wayside Place, where one resident found "Pyro" and another found "I Love UR Mom" sprayed on the concrete. Cars parked in private driveways on Freemont Place, Tichenor Plance, Charles Street and Graham Terrace were found with orange and cream-colored graffiti. Two front doors on Stonebridge and one on Wayside were also hit by the graffiti vandals, who drew "stick figures with appendages," "ASIAN RULE," and smiley faces =) according to police reports. Two vehicles on Nishuane Road were randomly splattered with paint. Although some of the markings on the vehicles were "Blood" and "Blood Gang," Lt. Scott Buehler says it's unlikely the vandalism is gang-related. Back in September, a spate of green graffiti marked Montclair. Earlier this month, Little Falls was tagged.
Three thefts and one burglary were also reported in this week's police blotter:
But that's not all he sends--if you've been to his wonderful exhibit over at the main branch of the Montclair Public Library, you've also seen his rich, lush photos of Anderson Park in Upper Montclair, of artfully composed landscapes, of people both near and far, and more. (You've also seen his work featured here on Baristanet!)
Continue reading "Photographer Scot Surbeck Sends His Egrets" »
Sung to the tune of Quando, Quando, Quando, Quando
Crawl over to the Real Estate page and find out when a condo-extravaganza will take place in Baristaville.
Here's something scary: Parents who don't spank might be screaming instead. Find out what local moms and shrinks say about shouting on Barista Kids.
Don't let a little rain stop you--you can stand up against hate inside today. In response to a tussle that happened last week, students and community members have organized the Spread the Love Rally today at 3 p.m. at Montclair State University.
Just last Wednesday, a student on campus was assaulted when he overheard some harsh words about LGBTQs.
This student told the haters to hush on up and stop with the nastiness. So they punched, kicked and called him names in retaliation.
Outraged students and community members along with S.P.E.C.T.R.U.M.S., an MSU support group, organized the rally. The Reverend Charlie Ortman from the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Montclair will be there and urges others to attend the rally today at 3 p.m. in Room 419 of the Student Center Building.
I hope these offenders remember the simple rule I teach my preschoolers: If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all.
See S.P.E.C.T.R.U.M. supporters in the video at the jump.
Continue reading "Rally Against LGBTQ Haters at MSU Today" »
Our friend Alden Provost over at the Glen Ridge Historical Society has sent over the names of the winners, and even a few photos, as well. You can see the whole display over at the Glen Ridge library. Sounds like a fun afternoon....
Continue reading "Glen Ridge Historical Society Photo Contest Winners Announced " »
Benjamin Franklin, referring to New Jersey's position between New York and Philadelphia, once compared it to a beer keg, tapped at both ends. And that was before any Turnpike Series. Mista Barista went out the other day to find just where in New Jersey he might find equal numbers of Yankees and Phillies fans. Here's the report he filed for the AP.
In emails to Baristanet and on the Watercooler, supporters of an elected BOE have expressed their displeasure at Mayor Fried's campaigning against an elected BOE and his absence at Monday night's forum held by the Montclair Times and Channel 34.
Mayor Fried makes no apologies. As far as the forum the other night, he says he was neither officially invited or asked to participate at the forum. "I think it is important for the public to know as much as they can about the issue, especially if they are undecided," says Fried. "I'm not undecided, so I don't need to continue to attend every meeting that takes place."
Fried says the most significant power he has as mayor is to appoint the school board which is why he has come out strongly on the side of an appointed board. "It's the one thing the mayor has the power to do that distinguishes him from the other at-large council members," says Fried, adding giving the mayor this power was determined in 1978 after a lot of consideration. Fried said it was always his intention to have more public involvement in the appointment process by creating a nominating committee, an idea that was part of the Unity Montclair slate's campaign.
As residents gathered to hear arguments for and against an elected BOE, Fried hosted coffee at his home on Monday night after sending this email out to invited guests:
As I'm sure you know, there will be a Referendum on the ballot on November 3rd to attempt to change our educational system. I think the elected option is too risky for our schools. To improve our kids education we need outstanding, committed members on the Board and I believe that if we make this radical change, only people who can raise lots of money will be controlling our schools.
The email then follows with a plea to raise money.
Continue reading "Mayor Fried's Campaign Against Elected BOE Raises Hackles" »
A truck crashed into a house on North Mountain Ave. earlier this afternoon, creating a big scare and traffic nightmare when police and fire trucks rushed to the scene. But a neighbor says that no one was at home when the crash happened. We're hearing that Berkeley Place is at least partially closed. We'll update with more information when we have it.
UPDATE: Fran Liscio, who just left the scene, will send pictures shortly. A "huge white truck" apparently slammed into the home's kitchen, she reports, but neighbors say nobody was hurt.
The NJ Democratic State Committee hasn't defaced any of my car windows, but they have made sure I know about the possibility of voting from home. I've gotten several big pieces of campaign literature (in the mailbox, thank you) making sure I know about this site, where you can apply to have your ballot sent to your house by mail in order to avoid a trip to the polls next Tuesday. Today is, by the way, the last day to take advantage of the mailed ballots.
Bloomfield Police Capt. Chris Goul has filed a $750,000 lawsuit against the town of Bloomfield, alleging that he lost the police chief job to Mark Leonard in January because of a "civil conspiracy" against him.
The lawsuit alleges that Bloomfield violated open meetings laws because Leonard met privately with some council members before he was received the promotion. Goul scored .8 of a point higher than Leonard on a Civil Service Commission test.
The township has officially declined comment. More details on NJ.com.
A barber who slits his customers' throats, a baker who takes the bodies and makes them into meat pies. What better show could 4th Wall Theatre have chosen for the weekend of Halloween? And to sweeten the pie, 4th Wall, in conjunction with Westminster Arts Center, is offering five free pairs of tickets, good for any of the shows (all 8 pm) on Thursday, Friday or Saturday night.
All you have to do is be one of the first five people to send a note to tips with the name of the actor who played Sweeney Todd in a 1998 Made-for-TV film adaptation.
UPDATE: Thanks to all five winners who correctly submitted the answer, Ben Kingsley. The contest is over.
Does the sight of your husband washing dishes get your blood flowing? See your wife scrubbing floors and you're to ready to romp? A new study done by Montclair State University professor Constance T. Gager and co-author Scott Yabiku says that the more time couples spend on housework, the more sex they have.
It's not a surprise that women feel more frisky when their husbands do housework. The book Porn for Women was a hit a few years ago. It features men cleaning, changing diapers and baking and tells us to, "Prepare to enter a fantasy world. A world where clothes get folded just so, men insist on changing diapers, and delicious dinners await."
Colleges have been ejecting students on five-day swine flu leaves like crazy. Last week, President Obama declared it a national emergency. The H1N1 vaccine is almost impossible to find -- although Montclair got just enough to inoculate emergency responders yesterday.
Having trouble separating fact from fear? Tonight at 7 pm, St. Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston hosts a public forum on the outbreak. Full details on our calendar page.
Rev. Dr. Clenard H. Childress Jr. and David L. Taylor Esq., Line C candidates for the New Jersey General Assembly, promise "immediate tax relief for homeowners now." How about immediate window-cleaning relief for car owners now?
These doorknob hangers, which were stuck into the driver-side window of two family cars, had to be peeled off yesterday, and left a lovely rectangular pattern that doesn't look like it will be any fun to Windex off.
Continue reading "Rev. Childress, Have You Heard of Doorknobs?" »
Remember the story from a month ago, about the feisty 92-year-old woman who fought back when the woman she gave a ride to after church tried to snatch her purse? Well, Montclair Police have arrested the suspect ... in church. From Montclair Police Lt. Scott Buehler:
Through a police investigation, the suspect was identified as Jacqueline Fishman,45, of Montclair. Fishman was located at St. Luke's Church on 10-23-09 at approximately12:30 PM and arrested. She is charged with robbery, with bail set at $1,000 cash, and transferred to the Essex County Jail.
Continue reading "Arrest in Case of Robber Who Asked for a Ride from Church" »
This adorable Wheaton terrier, Sadie, has been missing from her Watchung Avenue home since about 5 pm Monday. If you find her, call Tabitha at 973.783.5809 or 973.809.4811.
UPDATE: After spending last night in the pound, Sadie has now been reunited with her owners.
Turn off the stove. There's a free tasting and grand opening tonight at Habaneros, next door neighbor and sister restaurant to Spice II, the Thai restaurant at 399 Bloomfield Ave., Montclair.
The Baristanet crew tried out the new Mexican restaurant at a pre-opening dinner last month. The public is invited to come by tonight from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Habaneros is located at 401 Bloomfield Ave. 973.509.0970
Montclair residents should now have their official 2009 general election sample ballots, which includes the controversial question on whether the town should have an elected, rather than appointed, school board. Tonight at 7 pm, at the Montclair Fire Department headquarters on Pine Street, the Montclair Times will host a forum on the issue. A tape of tonight's event will also air on Channel 34 for five days prior to the Nov. 3 election. The public is invited.
Dogs may be man's best friend, but that won't get one on Hurrell Field in Glen Ridge -- if a measure before the borough council passes tonight. The council will have a public hearing on the canine ban at its regular 7:30 pm meeting. This summer, Hurrell, home to the Glen Ridge High School football, track and baseball teams, underwent a $650,000 renovation. Dogs are currently not allowed at Sherman and Clay fields. They are allowed at Carteret, Forest Avenue and in the Glen.
Service dogs would be exempted from the ban.
Baristaville's just the kind of place where parents would fall for Baby Einstein craze. We happen to know one who did. Read all about the Baby Einstein recall controversy over at Barista Kids.
Remember when the scary Chaney was named Lon? No, of course you don't. It was way back in 1925 that he starred in The Phantom of the Opera, a black-and-white silent film version of the famous Paris tale of disfigurement and terror.
On Friday, the Glen Ridge Congregational Church revives an old tradition by its late organist David Messineo, who died in 2004, by presenting the silent film with live organ accompaniment.
Do you have a boy, are you a boy or do you know a boy? The word on the street is this: Trouble is brewing for boys.
Statistically, boys are five times more likely to get kicked out of preschool as girls. Right now, 2.5 million more young women than men are enrolled in college. Boys take more ADHD meds, do less homework and are more likely to be classified as learning disabled. Why is this happening?
The author of the new book, The Trouble with Boys, will give more statistics tonight at Montclair High School tonight at 7 p.m., and the cost is $15. Peg Tyre, a Pulitzer-prize winning reporter, wrote for Newsweek before becoming a Spencer Fellow at Columbia University.
Continue reading "What's the Trouble With Boys? Find Out Tonight" »
We're just warning you. It may not be the best idea to plan your Whole Foods West Orange shopping trip for 8 pm tomorrow night.
President Clinton stumps for Gov. Corzine Tuesday night, first at a $200-a-plate dinner at Mayfair Farms in West Orange, then at a rally at the United Food and Commercial Workers Union Hall in Little Falls. That's a straight shot down Prospect Avenue to Pompton Ave., which is often a traffic nightmare even without former presidents in limos.
After a washout of a Saturday, Sunday's brilliant skies made just about any outdoor activity a pleasure -- whether it was treehouse hopping in Glen Ridge or planting daffodil bulbs with Cary Africk on Essex Avenue in Montclair. And what a glorious day for jousting. Go over to Barista Kids to see pictures of yesterday's Renaissance Fair. Or stay here and tell us how you celebrated the postcard perfect fall day.
It's off to the World Series.
We just received this tip and are eager to pass it along:
Powder Puff is on...Sunday 10/25 @ 2:30pm
POWDER PUFF FOOTBALL
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25TH
LOCATION: HURRELL FIELD
DOORS OPEN AT 2:00
GAMES BEGIN AT 2:30
ADMISSION: $3.00
-THE COMMUNITY IS INVITED TO ATTEND THIS TIME HONORED TRADITION. WHILE THE GIRLS BATTLE IT OUT ON THE FIELD THE BOYS CHEER ON THE SIDE LINES!!
-FOOD, DRINKS AND POWDER PUFF T-SHIRTS WILL BE SOLD AT THE EVENT!!
Well Appointed has confirmed my belief that if you can't find it in Baristaville, you probably don't want or need it anyway. Exhibit A: Well Appointed is a charming new home and gift shop that has opened up at 617 Valley Road in Upper Montclair. In addition to a great collection of Frank Lloyd Wright motifed stationery, desk accessories, home goods and more, there is also a beautiful selection of finely crafted fountain pens, artisan greeting cards, an array of elegant wind chimes, and more.
I bought a holiday scented candle by Joya, and the most wonderful handcast and hand decorated gold finch glass tile ornament; the goldfinch, of course is the New Jersey State bird. Call (973) 744-7500 for more info.
When my husband and I first moved here, we rented, so I didn't have a garden to call my own. Naturally, that made it so much easier for me to judge other people's gardens. I noticed that everyone seemed to have hostas--large ones, small ones, mostly the common ones with bright green foliage and stems of purple florets. I was unimpressed. "Why does everyone have those things? They're so boring. They're everywhere. The leaves turn yellow." etc. etc.
A tipster writers us:
The Renaissance Faire has been postponed until Sunday from noon-5 p.m. at Edgemont Park. Renaissance students are asked to text their friends,"2 much rain 2morrow, fair's on Sunday, please 4wrd."
The entire community is invited to celebrate the fun of the Renaissance with us!
Okay...ready, get set, twitter!
Ever wonder who's got a real slammin' tree house? Well you and the kids can find out tomorrow (10/25, 1-4 p.m.) at the Glen Ridge Treehouse Tour. Start at any of the five addresses below and pick up your Passport to Treehouse adventure. Donations are $5 per passport; proceeds go to Glen Ridge Schools. The Glen Ridge Treehouse Tour is sponsored by Amy Owens, Rhodes Van Note Realtors.
Start at one of the five fabulous treehouses, then tour the rest:
Montclair Township Animal Shelter is participating in the national "Foster A Lonely Pet For the Holidays" pet fostering program. Across the country, over 13,000 pet rescue organizations are trying to empty their kennels for Christmas, by encouraging animal lovers to invite a pet home for the holidays. The program goal is for all of the shelter pets to be put in a foster home by noon, December 20. All the necessary supplies for care will be provided. Foster home placement begins Nov. 3. For more information, contact the shelter at 973-744-8600 or email mtas77@verizon.net.
Montclair Animal Shelter has an average of 15-20 adoptable dogs and 30-60 adoptable cats. Rich, the Shih Tzu (left) and his sister are among the furry group waiting for a new home. View all their pets online at www.petfinder.com.
Montclair's Annual Gallery Walk is tonight, from 6-9 p.m. Montclair's many eclectic galleries invite you to A Little Night Art IV. Meet at the Montclair Art Museum to board the "Art Bus" to take self-guided tours of nine galleries. Free, sponsored by Montclair Arts Council. Details here.
Cajun Dance Lessons at Kasser Theater, MSU: The Alexander Kasser Theater will be turned into a wildly energetic dance hall for audiences tomorrow, October 24 when Cedric Watson & Bijou Creole and Feufollet, two Lafayette, Louisiana-based bands, join forces to perform Creole and Cajun music. Before the show--between 4pm and 6pm -- free lessons in Cajun/Zydeco dance will be given in the Memorial Auditorium on the Montclair State University campus. An event for all ages.
Postponed Due To Rain Forecast: "Strut Your Mutt" Canine Halloween Costume Contest and Parade: Originally scheduled for Saturday, October 24, this event has been postponed to Saturday, October 31. For more information, please call 973-268-3500.
A lot more fun, after the jump...
Continue reading "Weekend Round-up: Montclair Gallery Walk, Cajun Fest, Ladino Music" »
Every year Tinga goes into local schools and donates materials so children can learn about the Mexican holiday, Dia de los Muertos, by decorating their own Sugar Skull (Calavera). Hundreds of decorated skulls will be on display at Tinga from October 31st through November 14.
Tinga's is also offering kids and adults an opportunity to decorate their own Calavera. For more information on this fun activity, go to BaristaKids.
Glen Ridge Civic Conference Committee (CCC) will be hosting a "MEET THE CANDIDATES" night at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, October 27, at the Glen Ridge Women's Club, 219 Ridgewood Ave.
Elizabeth K. Baker, current Chair of the Glen Ridge Community Affairs and Public Relations Committee and Paul Lisovicz, Council President and Chair of Parks and Recreation Committee, are seeking re-election for Borough Council seats.
Two new restaurants opened their doors in Montclair last week, on Bloomfield Avenue. Weekend grazers may want to taste what's cooking in their kitchens. More, on Food.
Baristaville musician Rebecca Frezza and her seven-piece band Big Truck are celebrating the release of their fifth album -- Rockin', Rollin' and Ridin' -- performing two shows at Trumpets Jazz Club, November 15. Roscoe Orman (aka Gordon from Sesame Street), a guest vocalist on the new CD, will be making a special guest appearance. Contest details, and the new Big Truck video are on BaristaKids.
Last night was the final debate among candidates vying for the governor's seat in Trenton. Media reports show Chris Daggett's campaign is gaining momentum, while Christie and Corzine are locked in a statistical dead heat. From WNYC:
For much of the hour, Governor Corzine was on the defensive over his four-year record. He cast himself as a leader who faced tough choices imposed by a national economic crisis, who cut the state budget while still making strides in education and healthcare.Christie tried to offer voters more to go on than his image as a Federal prosecutor and committed tax-cutter. He pledged to drive a tougher bargain with state workers over pensions but also argued for arts funding and re-vitalizing the state's department of environmental protection.
Daggett, the independent, re-iterated his plan to roll back business and property taxes by 25 percent by extending the sales tax to include services. He also argued that increased spending on higher education was the surest way to attract new industries.
Did you watch, and did the debate sway your vote? Reader Nels Lauritzen foresees economic doom if Daggett's proposed tax plan is adopted. Read his letter, after the jump.
Continue reading "Last Night At NJ's Gubernatorial Debate" »
Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. and NJ Department of Transportation Commissioner Stephen Dilts announced yesterday that Essex County won a $75,000 grant to buy and install devices intended to scare deer off Essex County roads.
"Deer Deter" is cutting edge technology that emits a high frequency noise to scare deer and prevent them from running into traffic. The noise is set off when sensors in the devices detect the headlights of approaching vehicles.
"As we move forward in the third year of our culling program and accelerate the regrowth of our forests with an aggressive planting program, expanding the use of these reflectors will be a tremendous asset to make our roads safer and prevent deer-related accidents," DiVincenzo said.
Today DiVincenzo will dedicate 11 acres of open space preserved in West Orange bordering Mayapple Hill and Northfield Avenue. Formerly known as the "Mandelbaum Property," the parcel will become part of Essex County South Mountain Reservation and be opened to tall rats
the public for "passive recreation."
It's been two years since art maverick Rupert Ravens opened his gallery at 85 Market Street in Newark. Every time I go there, I don't want to leave. Picture Macy's, or Harrods, but all art. Floor after floor of amazing, tantalizing, seductive, groundbreaking art by a carefully selected spectrum of artists. The new show is called Vessel, and features 24 solo projects. The opening night reception is this Friday, October 23rd, 8 p.m.- 11 p.m. with live music by Danny Petroni - Featuring Absolute Zero. Rupert Ravens Contemporary is part of the Newark Arts Council's Open Door Gallery Crawl.
Continue reading "Art Celebration At Rupert Ravens Contemporary" »
Essex County Prosecutor Paula Dow announced this afternoon that John Brek, 55 of Linden, N.J., was arraigned before Judge Amilkar Velez-Lopez of the Central Judicial Processing Court here in Essex County on three charges: Third Degree making terroristic threats; Third Degree receiving stolen property; Fourth Degree possession of prohibited devices - hollow point bullets.
Continue reading "Linden Man Arraigned On Terroristic Threats" »
Meet my new workout buddy. I picked this pumpkin off the turf at Brookdale Park at 5:30 a.m., where it was waiting in the dark for me and the other women of North Jersey Boot Camp to use -- for exercise. We did push-ups on the pumpkins, then hoisted them up, holding them over our heads as we did walking lunges. File it under 101 Things You Can Do With A Pumpkin -- it was fun, unexpected and my kids were thrilled to find it on the steps this morning. The holidays are coming -- so working out is my savior (I like pumpkin pie, too). So tell me in comments what you love about your workout, what class you can't live without, the trainer that keeps you motivated or maybe a favorite exercise tip you want to share. It's an exercise open thread. Or you could tell me your best pumpkin pie recipe.
Eagle Scout--that's sort of like having a PhD. in scouting. It takes a lot of effort and commitment and planning and work. Find out how one young man did it on Barista Kids.
We broke the news about Smashburger here. Now, what tipsters and commenters have said is confirmed: Smashburger is coming to Glenmont Square (a.k.a. the Panera shopping center) on Bloomfield Ave. in Montclair. In other news, Montclair and Glen Ridge police are going to share authority over Glenmont Square, to better handle resident complaints about disturbances (noise and bright lights). Burger deconstructed here.
Montclair's Janet Link doesn't just think green, she blogs green, too. Her site, EnergyMiser101, looks at ways to save money on energy expenses. In this entry, she talks to Craig Brandon, Montclair's Supervisor of Solid Waste Management, to find out how recycling works in the town.
I was wondering how much revenue the town got for all its recyclable garbage. I didn't get a total- year figure, but I was told that in 2008 Montclair recycled 3,900 tons of paper and at $65 per ton that alone puts $253,500 in the bank for the town.It sounds like a lot of money, but the recycle business is actually a net revenue drain--at least in our neck of the woods. It actually costs Montclair more money to collect all the recyclables than the town earns from recycling. The costs include (but aren't limited to) paying the employees who collect the materials and purchasing and operating the trucks.
Link then took a ride with Brandon around town in his recycling truck and found paper mixed with bottles and cans at some "large institutions" around Montclair. Brandon said the town overall is pretty good about recycling -- are you? And if not, what makes it difficult?
It's election season and the halls at Hillside School are covered with the campaign posters of hopeful fifth grade council candidates; those same candidates and their campaign managers are handing out stickers featuring catchy slogans. One candidate, running for council president, has taken the campaign process a step further -- he's got a blog where he shares his thoughts about too-heavy backpacks and Howard Zinn. Find out on Barista Kids.
This Saturday (Oct. 24), the Rotary Club of Montclair is collecting used bicycles and portable sewing machines for Pedals for Progress. They will be sent to Nicaragua, Ghana, Moldova, Sierra Leone and Guatemala. Put your unused bikes (rust free) to good use in the developing world. No trikes accepted, but bikes with flat tires in need of some repair are accepted. A donation of $10 with each bike or sewing machine is requested to partially cover the cost of shipping. Contact Tom @ 973-744-3307 for questions or email conkcpa@yahoo.com.
Montclair Police report two men were victims of assault motivated by theft. No weapons were used, but both victims were man-handled.
On October 18, at 8:20 p.m., police were called to Bloomfield Avenue near So. Park for an assault in progress. They found a man standing at the bus shelter with his right eye swollen shut.
The victim, an 18 year-old-man from Newark, told police four black men, ages 18-21 approached him as he walked past Golden River Chinese Restaurant. One of the suspects asked him "what phone do you have? If it's a Verizon, I won't steal it, but if it's T-Moblie, I'm going to steal it."
The victim ignored the comment and continued on to the corner bus stop. Police say the group of four followed him, and began punching him and slamming his head into the plexiglass enclosure, then headed toward Midland Avenue. Nothing was taken from the victim. No arrests were made.
President Obama stumped for Gov. Corzine in Holmdel, back in July. He's here again today -- this time in Hackensack -- for one last push. He's not the only bold-faced name -- Vice President Joe Biden, former President Bill Clinton and Caroline Kennedy are all expected to stump for Corzine this week. Full story here. Talk about Corzine's chances here or anything else -- it's your open thread.
We told you about Lauren Mattia and her problems with rats after moving to Fair Haven from dear old Montclair. Now someone is leaving presents on her lawn. Hint: It's not the welcome wagon.
How would you handle this problem?
Wonder how sports gets on the air, in print and on the internet? Know anybody interested in a sports career in new media? The Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center will be hosting a seminar, "Media and Sports: It's a Whole New Ballgame," on Monday, Oct. 26 at 4 p.m.
The seminar, In conjunction with Diamond Sports Careers, will offer a unique opportunity to hear from leaders in the field about sports media trends and career development tips.
Panelists -- senior executives from sports media, from production to journalism -- include
David Gavant, executive vice president, MLB Productions; Patrick Stiegman, executive editor and producer, ESPN.com; Kelly Whiteside, USA Today sports reporter; Don Sperling, VP/executive producer, NY Giants; Jerry Cifarelli, CEO ANC Sports; and Richard Deitsch, SI.com.
To RSVP; call (973) 655-6891 or (914) 872-4036 or e-mail info@DiamondSportsCareers.com.
Montclair High School teacher Greg Woodruff will be named the Humanities Teacher of the Year by the New Jersey Council for the Humanities (NJCH) tonight at a ceremony at The Montclair Art Museum. Baristanet contributor Joyce Li remembers Mr. Woodruff fondly.
To leave congratulations, get ticket info and more details, go to Barista Kids.
The Department of Health and Human Services will be hosting a rabies clinic on Saturday, October 24 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Bloomfield Fire Station #3 on East Passaic Avenue. The clinic will provide free vaccinations to Bloomfield's cats and dogs. Under a municipal ordinance, all cats and dogs are required to receive a rabies vaccination and be licensed. Residents will be allowed to apply for or renew their license at the clinic. For more information, contact the health department at 973.680.4024.
Port Authority spokeswoman Jen Friedberg said Wednesday the 7:59 a.m. train out of Hoboken, N.J., struck the bumper as it arrived at about 8:15 a.m. in Manhattan. A total of 14 people were injured in the crash -- seven were taken to area hospitals -- and the seven others were treated at the scene, according to EMS officials.
More here at 1010Wins.
Those fabulous gals over at Garden State Roller Girls are asking, and we are glad to pass the message along. I met them last January and thought they were friendly, welcoming, funny, but mostly, great skaters.
Continue reading "Do You Have What It Takes To Be A Roller Girl?" »
Shoot Bambi. That's the sentiment from Cedar Grove resident Sam White, who spoke about the proliferation of deer in Essex County, The Star Ledger reports.
"To me, the deer are essentially tall rats," White said at the township's council meeting Monday. "What's the difference? One had a Disney movie made about it, and one didn't."
(Actually Disney Pixar made Ratatouille, but I'm thinking I don't want to argue with this guy.)
At a Monday town council meeting in Cedar Grove, Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo spoke about his plan to have volunteer hunters shoot at least 50 deer at Hilltop in Cedar Grove and South Mountain Reservation in Millburn and Maplewood, as well as 75 deer at Eagle Rock Reservation in West Orange. Residents in favor of the hunt complained of black marbles littering their backyards (deer droppings), while those against asked for more humane methods to address the deer problem. The hunts are planned for six days in January (starting 1/9) at South Mountain. Hilltop and Eagle Rock hunts are planned to start after South Mountain.
Are you seeing more deer (I swerved to miss one the other day that darted across Bradford Ave.)?
There were 70 or 80 of them on my window. Presby was simply covered with them--the picture here shows one of the back porch posts of the Walther House at around 2:30 this afternoon. And a Barista-tipster wrote us the following at 1:51 pm:
In the last 20 minutes I have noticed tons of ladybugs all over the outside of the house. I don't want to use the word "swarm" but I think it is fair to say a couple of hundred at least.
I am on Park Street, by Watchung Station. Maybe something to do with this warm day, after so many cold ones.
Montclair, which has increasingly been in the media spotlight (CNBC was seen recently at Elevation Burger, My 9 News at Starbucks and CNN covered ShopLocalMontclair), got a generous sprinkling of showbiz stardust Monday afternoon as WNBC filmed an episode of its fledgling LX New York lifestyle show at a local home.
The one-hour live afternoon show, hosted by Sara Gore, Siafa Lewis and Michael Flocker and launched in mid-September, began filming at 5.00pm.
I went along to observe the proceedings and, well, Montclair did everyone proud by showing up in full force - neighbors were out with their dogs, children vied for the camera lens' attention and a local lady's baked goodies whetted both camera's and the audience's appetite.
Continue reading "WNBC TV Show Shines Spotlight on Montclair" »
Baristanet sends condolences to family, friends and Hillside and Nishuane school communities mourning the loss of Jennifer Herzig-Deribin.
Jennifer Elizabeth Herzig-Deribin, 39, of Montclair died on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009, at Mountainside Hospital, Glen Ridge. Visitation is in the Dancy Funeral Home, 9 Smull Ave., Caldwell, on Wednesday, Oct. 21, from 4 to 8 p.m. A service celebrating her life will be offered at the Montclair Heights Reformed Church, 71 Mount Hebron Road (at Valley Rd.), Montclair, on Thursday, Oct. 22 at 11 a.m. Interment is private. Jen was born in Livingston and lived her life in Montclair, where she and her husband Scott have been raising their three children. A 1988 graduate of Montclair High School, she attended college in Florida. She worked several years for the YMCA in Cranford and Montclair. Jen loved children, caring for her garden, and competitive ice skating. She was on the board of the Inside Edge Skating Club, Montclair. She is survived by her beloved husband, Scott; loving children, Tori, Sydney and Austin; her devoted mother, Nancy Herzig (O'Mullan); dear uncles, Greg Herzig and John with wife, Irene Herzig, and cherished niece, Amanda Herzig. Jen was predeceased by her father, Donald Herzig, and brother, Donald Herzig II. In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Herzig - Deribin Children Education Fund, c/o Garrett Jones/ Dancy Funeral Home, 9 Smull Ave., Caldwell, N.J. 07006 would be appreciated.
Please use comments to offer condolences only - thank you.
The Superintendent's Taskforce on Building Use presented their unanimous recommendation on the usage of the Washington Street school to the Board of Education last night. Julie Cerf and Will Adkins, two representatives of the 30-member taskforce, recommended that the new building become a grade K-8 school, incorporating the existing Renaissance Middle School students, and leaving open the possibilities of renovations and a new magnet theme for Rand School.
Continue reading "Taskforce Gives Recommendation for Washington Street School" »
(Updating with additional information on the next offer day)
Today is Baguette Giveaway Day at Panera Bread. The first 100 customers at Panera locations in West Orange, Montclair, and West Caldwell will take home a French baguette - free - with any purchase.
The three locations will repeat this offer on Oct 30th. Go early if you're determined to come away with a free baguette!
After repeatedly calling my GP, other GPs in the area, my kids' pediatrician and every CVS (which vaccinates children aged 9 and upwards) within a 25-mile radius of Montclair, I finally had my older son vaccinated against the seasonal flu yesterday, at the CVS in Passaic - the only one in the chain that had enough stock of the vaccine to hold a clinic. This picture shows a line of 50 people waiting for their shot - the nurse said she had brought with her a total of 100. My younger son, too young to get his vaccination at a pharmacy, has no choice but to wait until his pediatrician gets his supply. Doctors and pediatricians send in their requests for the seasonal-flu vaccination in advance, but many won't find out if they'll get a supply of the shots - until they do.
Continue reading "Search for Seasonal Flu Shots: Where to Go" »
The Newark Arts Council's Open Doors '09 event, presented by Prudential Foundation, takes place Oct 22nd -25th, for an eighth year. There will be tours of dozens of local galleries and artists' studios. Major exhibitions during Open Doors includes a collective show focused on Newark, and featuring 30 international artists who provide a unique interpretation of the city from afar. Creative temporary gallery installations promise to be rife with colorful, thoughtful pieces.
This year's line up includes new programs such as the reopening of Sumei Multidisciplinary Art Center, one of Newark's most respected galleries, after a three-year hiatus. There will be movie screenings and the return of the kickoff event, the Newark Arts Parade, which starts and ends at 765 Broad St, travels around Park Place, and back up Broad Street.
Continue reading "Galleries Open Their Doors in Newark from Oct. 22" »
Board the Art Bus on Oct 23rd and be guided through a tour of Montclair's many eclectic galleries, including Brassworks on Grove and the Essex Fine Arts Gallery on South Fullerton Ave. The gallery walk, organized by the Montclair Arts Council, is free or charge and there will be a chance to win prizes, including dinner for two at Richie Cecere's or tickets to MAM's Cezanne and American Modernism exhibition. To be eligible for the Gallery Walk Raffle, collect a sticker from at least five of the galleries you visit.
Continue reading "MAC's Art Bus Tours Montclair Galleries Oct 23rd" »
Bernadette Baum wrote in that she is at the only CVS in NJ with stocks of shots for the regular flu. She was there with her nine year old as pediatricians are all out. Demand for swine flu vaccines has diverted resources away from manufacture of the regular flu shot.
The CVC in Passaic will be holding a flu shot clinic from 3 to 7 p.m. tonight.
They had 100 shots today but said they'll do another clinic soon. There were mostly elderly people filling out the Medicare forms and a handful of young folk there.
This afternoon in front of Applegate Farms, Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. joined the Township of Montclair and the New Jersey Tree Foundation to announce that trees are being planted along County roads in Montclair. The county and the New Jersey tree foundation worked collaboratively to receive the free trees from the NJ department of environmental protection division of community forestry.
About 300 new trees are being planted along County roads in Montclair.
"Planting trees along our County roads enhances the aesthetics of our streets, makes our neighborhoods more inviting and, most importantly, strengthens the health of our local environment," DiVincenzo said. "Our partnership with the New Jersey Tree Foundation and the Township of Montclair is an example of how our residents benefit when government and non-profit organizations share their resources," he added.
Crews from the Essex County Department of Public Works and the NJ tree foundation worked together to plant trees on Grove Street between Gordonhurst Avenue and Mount Hebron Road, Watchung Avenue between Upper Mountain Avenue and Ridgewood Avenue, and Bloomfield Avenue between Orange Road and Prospect Avenue. A variety of species were planted, including maple, cherry, crabapple and locust trees. Work began on Tuesday, Oct. 13 and is scheduled to be finished this Thursday.
A Baristanet reader wants to know if any readers know any leads or places where there are seasonal flu shots.
Our reader writes:
It seems that NO ONE - not doctors nor national chains that had advertized the service, have any seasonal flu shots. (for those of us who are not pregnant or very young or very old). My company gave out vouchers to free shots from Walgreens (they're out). CVS says on their web site that the local stores sell them (called a few, they said they're out & will not be getting any more). Although I am sure there is a shortage, there must be some supplies somewhere! Thanks!
Montclair High School has created a Writing Center with the help of the English department and a grant from the Montclair Fund for Educational Excellent. Find out when the open house is on Barista Kids.
Glen Ridge High School principal and assistant principal will be serving food at Panera Bread tomorrow from 4 to 6 p.m. For every purchase, $1 will be donated to GRHS.
Come out and support your school and have a little fun with your principals.
Montclair State University has released that their newest dorm will be called Frank Sinatra hall.
MSU students were given the opportunity to name the new dorm by voting online. Frank Sinatra beat out Walt Whitman and Albert Einstein with a total of 506 votes.
Other nominees that appeared on the survey were John Holland, George Inness, Alfred Kinsey, Doris Duke, Milton Freedman, Thomas Edison and Aaron Burr.
The Montclarion reports:
The results from the campus wide poll came in last week and Frank Sinatra was on top with 506 votes. He was followed by Walt Whitman in second with 125 votes and in third was Albert Einstein with 119 votes. A total of 2,379 votes came in to the university. The survey process was similar to the naming of the Village Apartments.
Montclair resident, Paul J. Fishman, was sworn in Wednesday as the U.S. attorney for the District of New Jersey.
The U.S. Senate approved the appointment of Fishman, 52, unanimously. Fisherman formerly worked as a prosecutor in the U.S. Attorney's Office in Newark from the mid 1980's to 1994 and worked as a top aide to Attorney General Janet Reno in Washington. He is taking over for Raph Marra, the interim U.S. attorney who was filling in for Christopher Christie when he resigned to run for governor.
North Jersey reports:
"This is a tremendous honor and privilege," Fishman said in a statement. "For me, I am returning to an office I once served where I expect to build on its traditions of excellence, fairness and integrity in enforcing federal criminal and civil statutes."
Clever Commuters are reporting power problems at NY Penn and they are seeing delays starting to show across all city-bound lines.
From NJT web site:
"Trains on the Northeast Corridor are currently being held at stations due to Amtrak low-voltage condition. Expect delays on Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line and Midtown Direct. An update will follow."
WNBC's new lifestyle show, LX New York, will be filming a live episode from an Upper Montclair family's home on Aubrey road tonight at 5 p.m. The "Home Takeover" episode will feature interviews with Montclair Mayor Jerry Fried and Sesame Street's Roscoe GOrman. There will also be special appearances from Montclair State University's pep band and cheerleaders.
Other segments scheduled for the show are a room renovation and Mike Carrino of Restaurant Passioné will be doing a live cooking demo with the family and host.
Don't forget to tune in and set your DVR's to WNBC at 5 p.m. to see our very own local celebrities.
And while we're contemplating cold weather, I may as well mention that Tara Casella over at the Essex Count Environmental Center (or ECEC for short) has sent out notice that last year's Gingerbread House contest was such a success, they're doing it again. You may recall that I entered last year's Annual Sustainable Homes and Habitats Gingerbread Contest (or ASHaHGC for short) and while I had a lot of fun and ate a lot of gumdrops in the process, my little concoction was nothing compared to the remarkable, funny, clever and beautifully produced gingery eco-chateaux on display. It's a fun and original contest, but I highly suggest you start planning your entry now. The competition is wicked.
We've just learned that there are a number of ways to predict just how bad winter's going to be. According to the Farmers Almanac, be on the look out for the early arrival of crickets on the hearth, spiders spinning larger than usual webs and entering the house in great numbers, the early departure of geese and ducks (let's go check Edgemont park for that one), the early seclusion of bees within the hive, larger and heavier than normal acorns, and here's my favorite: pigs gathering sticks.
Today is the beginning of the Hindu festival of lights, Diwali. Diwali is one of the biggest festival of the year for Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists, celebrated in India and Nepal.
The holiday is celebrated for five continuous days; the third day being the main Diwali festival or 'Festival of lights'. Fireworks, feasts, dance and gifts are an important part of this festival. On this auspicious day, people light up diyas and candles all around their house, performing Laxmi Puja, seeking divine blessings of the Goddess of Wealth.
Montclair's Aroma Palace is serving a special Diwali lunch buffet, noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday October 18. Aroma will serve vegetarian and non-vegetarian specials, ie; Poori Masala, Chola Battura, Avial, Chicken Tikka Masala, Tandoori Chicken, Special Mutton Curry. Try the traditional Diwali sweets - Rice Kheer, Semiya Payasam (Vermicilli), Gajar ka Halwa, Gilebi (Jalebi), and Gulab Jamun.
Next week Diwali is being celebrated in Newark...Details after the jump.
Continue reading "Diwali, Celebrating The Festival Of Lights" »
Gardens Aglow, the community pumpkin lighting scheduled for tomorrow, Saturday, Oct. 17, from 4-7 pm at Presby Iris Gardens, has been rescheduled for Oct. 30.
Nutley's Olde Towne Harvest Fest scheduled for this Sunday Oct. 18 is postponed until Sunday Oct 25.
Glen Ridge Historical Society Walking Tour: POSTPONED
Due to forecast unpleasant weather we are postponing the Historical Society walking tour that was scheduled for Saturday afternoon...The walking tour will be held instead on Sunday, October 25, starting at 2 pm at the Benson Street station. I hope you'll be able to join us then under more pleasant conditions.
List any other cancellations and rain dates in comments. :-(
Los Tres Amigos -- guitarist/vocalist Dean Shot of West Orange, Jerry Scaringe of Clifton on bass, and Montclair's Glenn John on drums -- play at Great Notch Inn every Monday, and at Cecil's every Thursday. Tuesday night the bluesy r&b trio really spiced things up at a rockin' grand opening party of Pizza Rustica, in Bloomfield. More photos, on Food.
A "new level of luxury" bus service will begin operating tomorrow from Bloomfield to Newark Liberty International Airport, NJ Transit announced. The "Go Bus" service will be faster and offer a more convenient trip between Bloomfield, downtown Newark and Newark Airport. "Go Bus" provides upholstered seats, individual lighting and air conditioning controls, and extra storage capacity for luggage.
Go Bus 28 departs every 10 minutes during peak periods and every 15 minutes off-peak from 3:30am to 2:00am daily. Fares are: One zone, one-way - $1.35, Two zones, one-way - $2.15. A one-zone bus transfer is $0.65. For complete information on fares and schedules, click here.
Tory, a Baristanet reader needs some dining advice. She's looking for somewhere especially welcoming on a cold, rainy night...
Hi Baristanet,As it's cold and rainy and clearly finally fall, my Friday night date-night with my newlywed husband can no longer be outside. Could you consider a posting of restaurants particularly good for a cozy fall/winner dinner? I feel like there are so many delicious spots in Montclair and beyond--many of which I know and love--but I've not really found anything particularly appropriate (in terms of both atmosphere and comfort food) for a damp, rainy night like tonight...Any ideas would be very much appreciated!
Katie suggests Joe Bartoni's, we've got reservations at Corso 98 tonight. Readers, want to help Tory out? Talk about your favorite comfort spots to dine, weekend plans, etc. It's your open thread...
Tonight at Outpost In The Burbs: Ellis Paul: singer, songwriter, poet, and troubadour, Ellis is the recipient of thirteen Boston Music Awards, second only to multi-platinum act, Aerosmith. A master storyteller, some of Ellis' compositions are familiar soundtracks for movies such as "Me, Myself, & Irene" with Jim Carrey, and "Shallow Hal" with Jack Black.
Saturday's Jack-o-lantern party postponed: Due to the rainy forecast, tomorrow's Garden Aglow party, at Essex County's Presby Memorial Iris Gardens has been rescheduled for Friday, October 30, 4-7 p.m.
Start your Saturday with a pancake breakfast, to benefit Montclair High's "Project Graduation." 10a.m. - noon at Woodman Fieldhouse. Then stay on to cheer the varsity football team in Montclair v. West Orange. Game starts at 1p.m.
Montclair's little shopping district, Walnut Street, holds its annual street fair tomorrow, rain or shine. Stop by, 11a.m. - 3p.m. for live music, special sales, and food tastings. Our friends at Corso 98 will have a mandolin player to serendade while you taste their amazing zeppoles, cookies, meat balls and lasagne. The Bread Company will offer tastes of gluten-free muffins, and their unique gluten-free crust pizza with organic toppings. Don't forget the nearby Farmer's Market at the Walnut Street train station; Joe, Arthur, and Gabe will be there selling popcorn for Boy Scout Troop 12.
Free! Free! Free! The Community-wide Hillside Swap is this Saturday, October 17, 9 -12. More details on BaristaKids.
Continue reading "Weekend Roundup Oct. 16, 17, & 18, 2009" »
Going to the NJ Devils v. Atlanta Thrashers game tonight? Once again, hockey fans will have a chance to win four seat upgrades in the "tweet your seat" competition.
To enter, begin following the @NHLDevils Twitter account on at the Devils v. Atlanta Thrashers home game. Upon issuance of an announcement by the Devils, for fans to 'tweet their seat', send your seat number and section to "@NHLDevils", along with the hashtag "#tweetyourseat".
Winners will be reseated in the lower level...
A Montclair man was arrested yesterday when detectives searched his home and found a load of marijuana. From Montclair Police Deputy Chief Todd Conforti:
As a result of an ongoing narcotics investigation, search warrants were issued against Darrell Gatling and a single family house on Franklin Avenue. On 10-15-09 at approximately 7:00 pm, detectives went to the residence and advised Gatling about the search warrants. During the course of the investigation, detectives seized approximately 7 lbs of marijuana (with an estimated street value of $10,000) along with two marijuana plants that were growing outside.Darrell Gatling, 55, of Montclair, was charged with possession of marijuana, possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, possession of paraphernalia, and possession of paraphernalia with the intent to distribute. Gatling is being held in Montclair on a $100,000 bond and will be sent to the Essex County Jail later today.
New Jersey State Police will be using laser technology to calculates the time and distance between moving vehicles during a two-week crackdown on tailgating, reports NJ.com. Starting tomorrow, Oct. 17 through Oct. 31, state troopers will target tailgaters on the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway.
Tailgating drivers are like road bullies - and are responsible for about one-third of the accidents on the toll roads, according to state police. Drivers who are caught tailgating will be fined and could receive up to five points on their driving record.
"Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers" and their fathers and their fathers all thought they knew exactly who Abraham Lincoln was. In an age where most Lincoln impressions are usually only seen on Halloween or in commercials with "honest" car salesmen, Gene Griessman has a new approach. In presenting our 16th president to Americans of the 21st century, Griessman says it was a "conscious decision of mine to combine entertainment and education."
Similar to Lincoln, Griessman has a reputation for captivating speeches. Having held the attention of crowds everywhere from audiences at Ford's Theater to the U.S. Navy, he is no stranger to the spotlight. Although Griessman himself has a PhD, many years as a college professor and plenty of successful publications under his belt, he is especially excited about performing at the Adult School of Montclair this Sunday.
Continue reading "Gene Griessman Performs as Lincoln This Sunday" »
Bundle up this weekend against continuing cold winds and rain as two storm fronts hit the Northeast. Yesterday's nor'easter, which brought sudden bone-chilling temperatures also laid down several inches of snow overnight in Northwest New Jersey. From The Weather Channel:
The first storm system will begin to move away from the coast during the day today which will allow for the precipitation and wind to begin to temporarily wind down Friday afternoon and evening.Unfortunately this break will be rather short lived as yet another storm develops off the Mid-Atlantic coast tonight into Saturday helping to spread additional snow, rain and wind across the eastern Mid-Atlantic, eastern New York and much of New England late tonight right into the day on Sunday
Additional snow accumulations Saturday into Sunday will be possible over many of the same areas that will have already seen snow yesterday and today.
It's not local, but it's the story folks are riveted to around the world. Falcon Heene was thought to be in a experimental helium balloon; one of his brothers had seen him climb into the homemade aircraft before it left the ground. The balloon finally landed after traveling some 50 miles, but Falcon was not in it. Falcon's father Richard is a storm chaser; the family had been on Wife Swap. Falcon is the youngest, shown here when he was 5.
6:10 p.m. News outlets have just reported that the boy was found and is at home.
Future chefs and bakers: The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, NY is coming to Montclair for an admissions reception. This time it's at Restaurant Passionné, 77 Walnut St., this Sunday, October 18 at noon.. Attendees who apply to the CIA at the event will have their college application fee waived.
The afternoon will be hosted by CIA alumnus Mike Carrino '01, chef, winner of Chopped and proprietor of Restaurant Passionné and the Carrino Restaurant Group. CIA came previously to Montclair's Culinariane, owned by Top Chef contestant Ariane Duarte.
To learn more about the reception or to find out about available entry dates, please contact The Culinary Institute of America at 1-800-CULINARY (285-4627) or visit www.ciachef.edu.
Wonder what happened to the lovely Lauren Mattia, Baristanet's former video correspondent? Well, she recently moved to Fair Haven, where she found out some of the locals are, well, rats.
And to think I was all upset about raccoons. Have you see any rodents in Baristaville and how do you deal?
Kid stuff, that is. The 9th Hillside Swap is this weekend. Details on Barista Kids.
Cedar Grove denizen Rachel Cecere makes wonderful jewelry that manages to be both edgy and beautiful. Her Etsy site shows some of the great stuff she handcrafts, such as her 'Cherry' jewelry. But she also has a series of uber-cool rock and roll pieces--sensuous, sexy, and hip pieces that compliment the female form and accent it. Pieces like the fitted chain necklace shown above, for example. She features some of her other wonderful artwork here. Do you have a favorite Etsy artist?
Today, Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. joins the Branch Brook Park Alliance to congratulate students from 14 public schools in Newark for completing a community service project to beautify Essex County Branch Brook Park. Locally, Eagle Scount candidate Greg Silverstein will be busy this weekend, working to restore Montclair's Anderson Park to its former
Olmsted-designed splendor. Silverstein, along with friends and volunteers will be working and planting all weekend, but extra hands are both welcome and needed. Come and contribute to your community (students can earn community service hours) and they'll be free food. Work hours in the park are this Saturday, October 17, and Sunday, October 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bring a shovel, work gloves and friends. For more info, email Greg here.
The Montclair Times reports that the family of Ryne Dougherty, who suffered a brain hemorrhage during a football game and never recovered, is suing his physician Dr. Michele Nitti for clearing his return to the field following a concussion, Montclair High School, Montclair Township and the Montclair Board of Education are also named in the suit for negligence.
Last Sunday, 60 Minutes took a look at the new research on the long term effects of concussions and head trauma and cited the three million sports related concussions that happen every year.
In an effort to make the game safer, several companies are developing new football helmets for added protection. One of them has shock absorbers inside, instead of the traditional foam to diffuse the impact of a hit.
Fans of Martha can tune in to her show right now and maybe see a familiar face, too. Stewart has some former classmates on the show today; this weekend, there is a 50th reunion for Martha's class at Nutley High School. She is expected to make an appearance.
Baristanet learns that Montclair police made six DUI arrests between Oct. 8 and Oct. 12. Those arrested ranged in age from 24 to 39; of these cases, individuals were arrested after running into a tree, another into a utility pole and another caught speeding. If you see someone who's had too many, grab the keys, call the police or do whatever you can to keep them off the road. We don't want a story like this in Baristaville.
On October 7, the building superintendent of apartments on Greenwood Avenue in Montclair called police to report two cars illegally parked on the property.
Police arrived on the scene and found one of the vehicles, a gray BMW 330 with expired temporary plates, was owned by a man from Elizabeth, NJ. A check of the VIN further revealed the car had been reported stolen. The officer requested the car be impounded and towed.
While completing his report, a woman approached the officer asking if the car was being towed. She told the officer the car belonged to her cousin "Salik" and would go get him from the apartment. The officer called for back-up.
Continue reading "Stolen Car Recovered, Suspect Covers Up Identity" »
Good news for crumbling Foley Field. Mayor Ray McCarthy caught a Hail Mary pass. The mayor announced today that he will be receiving a big check tomorrow from Frank and Randi Tripucka, who are making a sizable donation to revitalize Foley Field. Tripucka, a former NFL standout who is best known for throwing the first touchdown pass in the history of the American Football League, was born and raised in Bloomfield. He and his wife are both graduates of Bloomfield High.
Win a pair of tickets to Ellis Paul, performing this Friday (10/16) at Outpost in the Burbs. First two fastest emails to tips can each claim a pair.
UPDATE: We have winners.
When it comes to the swine flu vaccine, whose side are you on--doctors' or moms'? As you know, NJ is gearing up to receive our first shipment of shots soon. Check out some strong local opinions today on Barista Kids.
News you can use: New Jersey Transit has just launched a new website which expands all its most popular features and adds some new ones.
Homepage Trip Planner: Now customers can enter their travel information right from the homepage to begin planning their trip! In addition, the improved Trip Planner presents three itineraries instead of just one and integrates Google Maps to provide a graphic representation of the trip. It has also been adjusted to provide better results with fewer "error" messages. At-A-Glance Service Status: Customers can view service status for all rail, light rail and bus lines from the home page with a color-coded chart that displays "On Time" status or provides a link to "View Alert." Breaking News Bar: In the event of a service disruption, customers can access vital travel information directly from the top of the homepage.
Check it out and let us know what you think.
Is Montclair fast becoming the burger capital of New Jersey? Sure seems like we have an embarrassment of new burger options, what with Elevation Burger, the soon to be arriving Five Guys Burgers & Fries and now this.
Coming soon is Smashburger, described as "a Denver-based fast casual "better burger" restaurant concept." Smashburger plans to open its inaugural New Jersey location this winter in Montclair. Locations in Morristown and East Hanover are expected next. Here's the food speak:
Named for the cooking method used to create the perfect burger, Smashburgers start as a one-third or half-pound ball of 100 percent Angus beef--fresh, not frozen--smashed, seared and seasoned on a flat grill to sear in superior juicy flavor. To further the "better burger" experience, Smashburgers are served on a toasted artisan bun and topped with a selection of real cheeses, the freshest produce, and top-quality condiments.Smashburger is known for its savory burgers, but the restaurant also serves up delicious Smashchicken sandwiches, Smashdogs, and Smashsalads, with sides like veggie frites and rosemary and garlic-seasoned Smashfries. Burger lovers can pair their meals with Häagen-Dazs shakes and malts.
We're still waiting to find out the mystery location for Smashburger; when we do, we'll update. Menu here.
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