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Last Call for Newark’s Anheuser-Busch
Growing up on the flight path of Newark Airport was always interesting. Some days the planes were so low it almost felt like you could reach out and touch them. As I started working full time and needed to travel, drivers were astonished I knew all the shortcuts to save time getting to the airport.… Continue reading
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For all the Right Reasons: Najee Jihad
I love to share the stories of fellow New Jerseyans who are doing their best to be a positive role model, lift up their local community, or bring light to an important issue. I’ve written about Mayor Lora, advocate for the Italian American community, Patrick O’Boyle (yeah, I know, the name), Firefighter Daniel Vasquez, and… Continue reading
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Belleville’s Favorite Sons Receive Special Honor
There is nothing I love more than hearing good news from my beloved hometown – Belleville. I spent about 20 years there, in the very same house as a matter of fact, and it will forever hold a special place in my heart. This past week, the bandmates were honored with keys to Belleville during… Continue reading
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A True Jersey Podcast
Awhile back I blogged about a podcast I came across that was created by Jersey transplants. Let’s just say I found them less than charming. Today, I want to share a true Jersey podcast for those of us who really love our state! The Jersey Angle The Jersey Angle Podcast is hosted by Jersey journalists,… Continue reading
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Remembering Loretta Swit
This week New Jersey lost a favorite daughter, Loretta Jane Szwed; but the world knew her as Loretta Swit. Born and raised in Passaic, Ms. Swit was an active member of her community. She participated in all the things a typical American girl did growing up. She was a member of the Girl Scouts that… Continue reading
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Sahli Negassi is Simply Perfect
“What did you get on your SATs?” It is a question we have all been asked at some point. And quite honestly, I avoid this question like the plague. If people were judged by their SAT scores alone, I would be considered dumber than a box of rocks. I took my SATs three times in… Continue reading
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The Retirement of a Jersey Giant
When it comes to the “Jersey Sound,” there are few that stand out as much as John Lyon. Most of us known him as “Southside Johnny.” A staple of Jersey pride for 50 years, Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes’ shows are legendary. He has toured the world. Johnny and Steven Van Zandt formed the… Continue reading
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Bakery Legend Passes
Growing up in North Jersey, we were lucky enough to have plenty of awesome food options. And of course we each have our favorite. For generations, Calandra’s Bakery ranks high on many lists. Sadly, the founder of Calandra’s, Luciano Calandra, Sr., passed away at the age of 94. Signore Calandra immigrated from Camporeale, Sicily in… Continue reading
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Italian Heritage Month: The Italian Hot Dog
Growing up in North Jersey, just a stone’s throw from Newark, a battle continues to take place that’s as old as the neighborhood of the Old First Ward – what Italian hot dog do you prefer? What is an Italian Hot Dog? Just like I’ve said countless times, I grew up with certain foods and… Continue reading
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Remembering John Allen Amos Jr.
Today is October first. Normally my post today would kick off the celebration of Italian Heritage Month. But I needed to pause and note the passing of Jersey’s favorite son, John Amos. John Allen Amos Jr. was born in Newark and grew up in East Orange. He was what I would call a Renaissance Man.… Continue reading
This Is My New Jersey 