The

SPOT

The County Seats Guide To Dining, Shopping, Health & Entertainment

Spring 2014

INSIDE
Baker John Cabreras Sweet Easter Treats Spring Break Dreamin The Real Estate Market is Back!

Inside
Cover
Photography by Gail Vachon Mills Bakery Owner John Cabrera shows off his strawberry shortcake and other treats. This page: Assorted pastries also available at Mills Bakery.

What to Wear................................12 Out with the wool and fleece and in with the nautical. Prom-o-nomics.................................10 No need to break the bank on dresses, limos or corsages. Craft Beer Scene............................14 Find out whats making these small batch brews a hit with beer aficionados. Eat the Pizza.............................18 The Garden State is known for its pizza but some North Jersey pizzerias are setting the bar higher. Springtime Getaways............................20 Whether its the beach or the city, the choice is yours for Spring Break travel. Memory Lane...............................................25 Remembering Valentines Days of yesteryear. Spotlight.......................................................26 The real estate market is shaping up, according to Maywood Realtor Victoria Healey.

Navigating Main Street..............................28 A free app is your ticket to the best Hackensacks downtown has to offer.

Features
Supermom.....................................................4 Take a moment to breathe this Mothers Day and shed your superhero cape. Spring Decorating..................6 Pink, yellow and lavender. Fill your house with these spring-like shades. Make Time for Manners...................8 Were so busy its easy to put politeness on the back burner. Dont. Mills Bakery Goes Modern........................9 The pecan rings at Mills Bakery are still just as scrumptious but their home has a fresh new look.

The Spot - March 2014

THE Spot
Spring 2014

S t af f
Publisher Gail Vachon Editor in Chief Lauren Zisa Deputy Editor Melody Travisano Art Director Donald Hatcher Graphic Designer Linda Lemos Sales Managers Karen Burke Avis LoVecchio Contributors Joy Belgiovine Barbara J. Gooding Cynthia Grosso Roseann Kearney Scott Kearney Justin LoVecchio

Publi c at i on
The next issue of The Spot will be delivered to homes on June 20. Deadline for all advertising and editorial submissions is May 22.

Spring may not be in the air yet but its certainly on every New Jerseyans mind these days. We are ready to shed the winter boots and shovels and enjoy all the great things that Bergen County has to offer. In this spring edition of The Spot, we visit Mills Bakery, a Wood-Ridge landmark that still offers the best butter cookies in the area but now also serves up more trendy fare such as tiramisu. Mills is also gearing up for Easter with its signature pizzagaina, the delectable Italian meat pie. We are preparing for St. Patricks Day with a look at craft beers. These small batch brews are now available in flavors such as chipotle pepper, green apple and even garlic and cilantro as found in Boaks Beers Double BW, a Belgian wheat beer with an Asian flair. What a better time than now to plan a Spring Break getaway! The Spot offers some suggestions to suit the beach bum, history lover and even the most discerning traveler. If a day at the San Diego Zoo sounds too taxing, how about an airboat tour of the Florida Everglades or an afternoon ballgame? Hackensacks Main Street is making it even easier to shop and dine without ever having to deal with highway traffic or long lines. Thanks to a free mobile app, the shopping districts restaurants and specialty shops are now at your fingertips. In the mood for Thai spring rolls or in need of an Italian soccer jersey? Its all right there. With spring and summer on the horizon, the real estate market is gearing up for increased listings, showings and open houses. According to Maywood Realtor Victoria Healey, things are looking up and our darkest days may be behind us. Senior proms may be a couple of months away but preparations are in full swing. The Spot takes a look at whats trending today and how it can be done on the cheap. Cant afford a designer gown? Rent one. Limousines too expensive? Grab some friends and chip in on a party bus. Thanks to our diligent advertising managers, The Spot is once again filled with a variety of products and services - some new, some long-time favorites. In an area as vibrant as Bergen County, its often tough to keep up with whats happening, but our staff is on the pulse. As the ice begins to melt, reconnect with neighbors, take a walk and enjoy some fresh air. I may just see you on Main Street. Cheers!

Edit ors Not e

Con t ac t Us
77 Hudson St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 info@cntyseat.com www.cntyseat.com www.facebook.com/cntyseat
P: 201-488-5795 F. 201-343-8720

Lauren Zisa Editor in Chief

The Spot - March 2014

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S PRING 2 0 1 4

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Newly-constructed elevator building 57 Luxury One and Two bedroom apartments Exclusively 55 and older

The Spot - March 2014

A Confession
B y J oy B e l gi ovi ne

First of all, Im not really a Supermom. I mean I dont actually wear a cape or anything, but I am responsible for the lives of three little humans under the age of 10. When we all make it out of the house in the morning without an emergency trip to the E.R., I have achieved Supermom status. And for all of you moms who do the same, each and every day, you too are Supermoms. You may think my expectations are too low, but after years of striving to be the perfect mom and always being in control, Im absolutely exhausted and Ive realized its impossible. We put enormous pressure on ourselves and we are squarely resting those pressures on the shoulders of our children. I am not saying to let the kids go all Lord of the Flies and rule themselves, but we need to take a moment and breathe. Yes, we all want our children to succeed, to be strong, be nice and to be happy, but we must realize that its not going to happen all of the time. And more importantly, we need to stop judging other moms who may parent their kids differently the Tiger Moms, the Helicopter Moms, the Dance Moms, the Free Range Moms, the Pinterest Moms or the Super Fit Moms who appear on magazine covers under the headline, Whats Your Excuse? Apparently there is a name for each one of us, and we are all doing something wrong. Look, as long as your children arent abused, neglected or in danger, lets lose the labels and stop the finger-pointing. We are all guilty of quietly sizing up another moms parenting, but the funny thing about raising kids is that anything can happen at any given moment. In fact, a lot of it is out of your hands. The seemingly well-behaved toddler who sat still during Sunday Mass can suddenly pass gas rather loudly during the homily. These things happen (It did to me). Let it go. The weary mom of that kid wearing his Halloween costume in Target (in April) needs a nod of encouragement, not your judgment. As fellow moms, we should empathize, not criticize. And if we havent been there yet, we may be there tomorrow. I never imagined that I would feed my kids chicken shaped as dinosaurs. Now, I find myself finishing the half-eaten T-Rex chicken scraps out of their plates. Not all the time, but it has happened, more than once, in fact. This Mothers Day, lets give ourselves, our kids and our fellow moms, a much-needed break. Lets stop being so hard on ourselves and on one another and celebrate the little daily victories like remembering to pack your preschooler a show-and-tell toy on the right day and laugh at our not-so-stellar mommy moments, like when the class stuffed animal went missing on your watch (sorry Mr. Knufflebunny, wherever you are). So, go ahead and tell that mom over there with the kid having a meltdown in Aisle 2 that you can relate and that shes got a little spit up dripping from her shirt. Then give her a tissue, and maybe some wine. Happy Mothers Day!
J oy B e l g i ovi n e i s a w r i t e r f or T h e S p o t a n d t h e m om of t h r e e d aughte r s.

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The Spot - March 2014

Spring Is in th
BY ROSEANN KEArNEY
Spring has always been my favorite season. It is a time of rejuvenation and renewal. Spring is a celebration of life. It is the end of a cold, harsh winter and the birthing of a new Earth. My fondest memories of spring involve Easter and Mothers Day with my dad in Jersey City. My dad owned and operated a small taxi cab business for more than 30 years, and every Easter and Mothers Day he sold flowers on the sidewalk in front of his office. My brother, Peter, helped him. When my son, Scott, was old enough, he joined them on the corner of Bowers and Central, selling mums, hyacinths, tulips, lilies and azaleas. The scent of the flowers was sweet and clean and the colors were breathtaking. Every year, when spring comes around, I remember those beautiful flowers, and that memory inspires me to decorate my clients homes for this wonderful season. I have a few simple suggestions that will make your home light and airy and get it ready for spring without spending a lot of money. The first thing that I suggest is to de-clutter. Get rid of some of your accessories. Take down your dark, heavy drapes, clean those windows and let the sun shine in. Out with the dark winter blahs and dark colors and in with the light and new. Pale pinks, yellows, lavender and various shades of white were the colors of my dads flowers and I love to use this palette to decorate in the spring. Cover your furniture with white slipcovers. Pick up and remove your dark area rugs and replace them with jute, sisal or sea grass area rugs. Very inexpensive. Introduce a few pieces of wicker or rattan furniture. Keep everything sparse, white and neutral. Add a few potted plants in pastel colors. Buy an old iron garden gate in an antique shop for a few dollars and cover it with vines or a wreath. It makes a great wall treatment and its so very springy and beautiful. When I recently moved from a large home to a small apartment, I decided to decorate with white slip-covered furniture for all seasons. I have white walls, a white slip-covered sofa, chaise lounge, chair and ottoman. I added a pine cocktail table and pine library wall. I have sisal rugs, a few black

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he Air

accessories, and black and white toile window treatments. This look is fresh, bright and always feels like spring. I love it and it seems to make everyone who visits happy. Most people are afraid of white. Dont be. Its so easy to throw slipcovers into a washing machine and they come out like new. It doesnt matter if you have a dog with muddy paws or kids with peanut butter-covered hands. White is easy to live with and it always looks crisp, clean and beautiful. Remember, always keep it simple . . . and enjoy spring!

Roseann Kearney is a New Jersey-based interior decorator and designer with more than 35 years of experience. She is also a published author and public speaker. For more information she can be reached at 201-290-2647 or www.RoseannKearney.com

The Spot - March 2014

Etiquette
By Cynthia Grosso Charleston School of Protocol and Etiquette

Find Time to be Polite

Today, in our faster-than-a-speedingbullet society, most of us are very busy. However, with all this busyness, are we finding time to be polite? In America, a greeting many people use is Hello, how are you? We all know the common response to that question has been fine. But have you noticed how often the response is I am so busy? When we are busy moving so fast, we may not have time to hold the door for someone, to allow someone to go ahead of us in traffic, etc. Be aware that these actions of busyness may convey an attitude of rudeness. Is holding the door for someone just a polite action or an outward indication of a much deeper belief? Holding the door for someone is not just an action, but rather, it is an attitude. When you watch people who let the door slam in the face of the person behind them and you observe these people in life, they live their whole life like that. They often have a marriage, a business and an existence that is inconsiderate of others. Please know that your manners and etiquette are not just polite actions, they are symptoms of your attitude, an attitude that is directly related to your success in business and in your personal life. Let us be constantly reminded of our attitude by the little actions we do to check ourselves and gauge how we are doing in life. Let us hold the door. Please do not let busyness rob us of the few seconds it takes to be polite, considerate of others, and convey to people through our actions, we are still Fine, thank you.

The Charleston School of Protocol and Etiquette specializes in assisting individuals and corporations pursue higher levels of professionalism, leadership and the skill of polish. The school offers seminars and consulting services in business etiquette, leadership and medical office protocol, www.charlestonschoolofprotocol.com.

The Spot - March 2014

ld-Fashioned Sweets, Modern Twist

By Joy Belgiovine

ills Bakery has been a neighborhood staple in Wood-Ridge since opening its doors in 1920, serving up old-fashioned sweet treats such as pecan rings, crumb cake, apple turnovers and butter cookies. And while the shelves may still showcase the delicious desserts loyal customers crave, the bakery has taken on a whole new look. We are always going to be Mills, but I wanted to put my mark on the place. This is my legacy, says John Cabrera, owner and head baker. Cabrera, who bought the bakery four years ago, started working at Mills as a dishwasher at only 14 years old. He quickly worked his way up the ranks through high school, all the while developing a passion for baking. Its all I know, he says. Im in this forever. After attaining his associates degree in baking and pastry arts from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island, Cabrera took a job as head baker of the Mirage Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. When he heard about an opportunity to return home and buy Mills Bakery, the very place in which he honed his craft, Cabrera didnt hesitate. Since I bought Mills, I wanted to give the place a facelift, Cabrera says. We still have a comfortable, old-fashioned feel, but everything has been updated. Cabrera, who oversees a team of 15, completely gutted the bakery and changed the layout, adding a copper-tin ceiling, dark-stained woodwork and yellow walls. Cabrera says customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and hopes that the fresh look will attract a new, younger clientele. The changes also extend to the kitchen. Cabrera has expanded the bakery menu to include gourmet desserts with a European flair, such as French mousse cakes and tiramisu. The Mills recipes are staying exactly the same, Cabrera strongly emphasizes. Mills famous Irish soda bread and the Pizzagaina a traditional Italian meat and cheese pie prepared for Easter - will hit bakery shelves soon with the holidays approaching. To balance the old with the new, Cabrera is always looking for opportunities to break into new markets and media. In 2011, his custom ball-and-chain cake was featured on TLCs Say Yes To The Dress: Big Bliss and he continues to experiment with even more intricate specialty cakes and creations. Cabrera also has several corporate accounts and designs customized bakery baskets/gifts for the holidays. There is no job too big or too small, Cabrera says. I love what I do. Everything else is just the icing on the cake.
Mills Bakery is located at 275 Valley Boulevard, Wood-Ridge, NJ. For more information, call 201-438-7690 or visit www.mills-bakery.com.

The shop opens at 6 a.m. seven days a week.

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P R O M
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PROM-O-NOMICS
Prom season is in full bloom and so are the costs associated with the big night. Golden Asp, a leading prom dress retailer since 1969, recently announced that the price of attending a high school prom in 2014 is projected to hit levels never seen before, with the average cost at more than $1,900 per couple. Were finding that the average cost of prom has been rising 34 percent per year since 2011, said Jon Liney, founder/owner of Golden Asp. Based on that rate, this year, parents and students are projected to spend an astonishing $1,949 on prom - roughly $500 more than last year. But the big night doesnt necessarily need to break the bank. often, these are sold as-is, with no choice as to color or size. Always ask about sample dress discounts, and, if you see any stains or snags, ask if the discount can be increased. Also, try calling a few local shops and ask if they are having any sample dress sale days. Take It to a Tailor Lets say you found a great dress at a great price, but the sizing is a bit off. It often pays to bring it to a local tailor for a little nip and tuck for the perfect fit. Tailoring is a great option too when you want to update the style of an older dress by either changing the length or adding some minor alterations. D o Your Homework When I walk into a boutique store, I already know what the dress is selling for online and at the department stores. This helps me negotiate a better price, said Elena Rega, whose daughter, Lauren, is a senior at Immaculate Heart Academy. Rega has been honing her dress-forless skills for some time. Rega said shes even called dress manufacturers personally to research her options. It really pays to do your research. It takes time, but you can save hundreds. Liney cautions that when buying a prom dress online one must ensure that it is a legitimate retailer. The Authentic Dress Guide on Lineys site -www. goldenaspprom.com/ authentic-prom-dresses - is a great resource to help you detect a shady prom dress retailer from a reputable one.
Photo Courtesy Golden Asp

For girls, the dress is typically the biggest prom expense. Historically, the sweet spot price range for a prom dress was between $300 to $350, yet over the last few years, parents are buying in the $400 to $450 price range, Liney said. If you want to save, first and foremost set and stick to a budget. Its a great example to show your kids, and as a retailer, I can always tell when parents have had a budget conversation with their daughter beforehand. Its much easier to get through the buying process when these expectations are set. Thinking outside of the dressing room can also help nab a dress for less. S core a Sample Dress These floor model dresses often come with a smaller price tag. Most

The Dress

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 S tart Surfing Not only is the Web a great place to comparison shop and nab coupons, but there are several Web sites that offer formal dress rental options. For those who want to dazzle in a brand name dress without committing to a hefty price tag, visit www.renttherunway.com and www.lendingluxury.com, which have designer dresses available for low rental prices. S et Up a Swap Your friends have friends at other schools, so why not spread the word and get together for a dress swap. Sometimes shopping in someone elses closet offers better options than retail and you cant beat the price of borrowing.

The Ride

The Hair and Makeup

Many salons offer discounted packages for a hair and makeup bundle, making it more affordable to have both done professionally. Vincenzas A Cut Above in Hackensack runs a hair and makeup prom special (including a complimentary gift) for $100. The convenience of having your hair and makeup done together is great, but first make sure the makeup artists have experience under their belt, said Vincenza Sellitto, salon owner. She warns that some shops may hire an inexperienced person to do makeup at prom season just to increase the package price. She recommends calling the salon first, asking questions and talking to clients about their experiences. You dont necessarily need to go in for a trial run, but bring in pictures (of both your dress and hairstyles you like) and be specific when talking to your stylist, she said. Sellitto prides herself on ensuring a fun, stress-free experience for prom primping. This is our specialty and we take this day as serious as the girls do, she explained. Being a mom to two daughters, I know what these girls expect. We put on the music and make it a fun experience for them. One final tip is to book your hair and makeup appointment as soon as your prom date is set to secure a spot.

Getting around in style on prom night requires some research to do it in the most affordable way. Sharing costs is key, advised Anthony Giaquinto of Three Gs Elite Chauffeur Service in South Hackensack. Try to get a group together to share the costs of a 10-person limo or a party bus for a larger bunch, Giaquinto said. He also recommended renting the limo for a block of time versus just a drop off and pick up because the hourly rate drops when you rent the vehicle longer. Giaquinto said hourly rates can start at $75 depending on the car and how long it is needed. He also recommended booking at least three to four months in advance. When choosing a company, check its reputation, the experience of the drivers, the type of vehicles and their age.

The Flowers
Fun florals dont have to be expensive. John Kosakowski, owner of Bill OSheas Florist in Hasbrouck Heights, recommends using mini roses for a girls corsage. These are very popular because they are affordable, look great and come in a variety of colors, Kosakowski said. You can easily customize them with an accented ribbon or band, even if you decide to go with a more neutral colored flower. The average price of a small rose wristlet can be as low as $25, without any added embellishments like jewels, and approximately $35 when you start adding some bling, Kosakowski explained. For guys, a coordinated look is key, so their dates may request pops of color using ribbons or a secondary floral. Boutonnieres typically run approximately $10.

The Tux

Guys have it easy, but to make the tux selection process run as smoothly as possible, boys should communicate with their dates about color preferences before going to the store. Many retailers will run rental specials during prom season, with a basic tuxedo and fitting costing approximately $50. Chester Francis of Mens Discount Suits in Lodi has tuxedos starting at $49.99 and recommended renting your tux two weeks before the prom to ensure enough time in case a special color or size needs to be ordered.

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GLAM GRUNgE
By The Style Duo: Mindy and Paula Shapiro

Floral Patterns Now Trending

There is nothing more exciting than seeing spring clothes hit the racks at your favorite stores. The spring fashions of 2014 deliver fun, happy colors and interesting and detailed fabrics, so fashionistas get ready to pack away those winter sweaters and start embracing lighter and more whimsical styles. Thanks to Mercedes Benz Fashion Week back in September, we got a great first glimpse at whats in store for spring feminine and airy prints, ethnic and tribal patterns and a great new and fresh approach to grunge called glam grunge.

Here, the Style Duo breaks down the top 10 trends for spring 2014:
1. FLORALS
We got a taste of the floral trend last spring when we saw perennials popping up on flowy tops and skinny jeans. This season we are going to see vibrant floral prints on everything from jumpsuits to maxi dresses. Minty blues, yellows and soft pink will be prominent in this feminine pattern.

6. TRIBAL

We were introduced to this Indian- and Moroccan-inspired trend last year and its going strong in 2014. Expect to see embellished pencil skirts, patterned jackets and cozy knits.

2. GLAM GRUNgE

Grunge makes a comeback, but dont expect to see the same Seattle-inspired casual grunge we saw in the 1990s. Spring 2014 is calling for a more glamorous take on the grunge look. We will see the same relaxed flowy dresses with biker jackets and denim vests but the fabrications will be richer and the patterns more modern and embellished. important role in this next spring trend. Look for gingham checks and stripes to add a little clean and simple fun to your wardrobe.

7. MOD Bright and geometric prints were all the rage on the runways back in September, so get ready to go retro now that this trend is finally hitting all the racks at your favorite department stores. Try an A-line shift dress or cropped pants to transport you back to the 1960s. 8. SpRINg PLAID We were mad for plaid this winter and we are checking out this trend again this spring. Look adorable in plaid halter dresses and skirts and pair them with peep toe booties for super-stylish look. 9. RED Red has major staying power as far as what colors keeping trending. Poppy is a flattering fave this spring and easily brightens any look. 10. HAIR ACCESSORIES The side part is back in style and so are hair accessories. Gold barrettes, headbands and leather ties will make a big statement this season.
The Style Duo is a full service, personal shopping and styling company based in New York/ New Jersey. For more information, visit http:// thestyleduo.com.

3. NAUTICAL Jumpsuits and shirtdresses will play an 4. WHITE The crisp white shirt is coming back this

season, as well as the white dress. Tuck your shirts into ripped boyfriend jeans for a casual cool day look and wear your white dresses with a light leather jacket for a great date night. Pink shoes, dresses, shorts...you name it! Pink is back big time so embrace your girly girl side and make this hot hue part of your wardrobe. 6 12 The The Spot Spot -- March March 2014 2014

5. PINK

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Tapping into The Craf t Bee

By Joy Belgiovine un, trendy names are no longer reserved for those girly mixed drinks on the bar menu. From Caramel Apple Ale to Gnarley Barley, craft beers offer a flavorful, robust alternative to the mainstream, big name beers. Craft beers tend to be higher in alcohol content and not as light and low-calorie as a pilsner. Craft beer drinkers arent about how much they can consume, they are in it for the taste and quality of the beverage.

The craft beer industry really goes back about 25 years or so, and its been growing steadily at a double-digit rate, said Brian Boak, owner of Pompton Lakes-based Boaks Beer.

Even though overall beer sales were down 2 percent through the first half of 2013, the Brewers Association in Boulder, Colo. claims that the American craft beer industry continues to show significant growth. American craft beer sales rose 15 percent and volume grew 13 percent during the first six months of 2013, with approximately 7.3 million barrels of beer sold by small and independent craft brewers.

Craft Beer

Food Pairings

More and more restaurants are now pairing dishes with craft beers. Brian Iarossi of Three Wise Monks Pub in Garfield explained that there are definite rules when it comes to selecting the right beer to complement a flavor profile. IPAs (Indian Pale Ales) work best with spicier food, Iarossi said. A typical lager is often paired with hearty meats and fish, while wheat beer ale works best with rich, heavy fare like cheesesteaks. Iarossi recommends chocolate coffee stouts paired with chocolates or cheeses for dessert. Anthony Tony G Giaquinto, owner of Tony Gs Restaurant & Lounge in South Hackensack, recommends pairing a favorite pizza with Angry Orchard, a crisp apple cider-flavored craft beer.

This is up from 6.4 million barrels sold during the first half of 2012. People really like a different variety and the more intense flavor that a craft beer offers over pilsner beers, said Anthony Yeswita, craft beer representative at Peerless Beverage, a Union-based distributor. For us (Bergen County), the brands Brooklyn Brewery, Captain Lawrence Brewing Company, Brewery Ommegang and Blue Point Brewing Company are among the popular brands, Yeswita said. Every bar I deal with is going the craft beer route. Craft beers follow the buying local trend that has been prevalent throughout todays food industry. Consumers want to buy local, gourmet and natural, says Brian Iarossi, owner of Three Wise Monks Pub in Garfield. In business for three years, Three Wise Monks has been hosting a series of popular events where all of the taps feature customer favorites from the same brewer for an evening. But the craft beer phenomenon is not something new. In fact, this business is actually a throw back to simpler times. In the 1700s there were about 4,000 breweries that served their immediate areas and local bars, Boaks explained. Today, there are a little over 2,000 brewers in the United States.

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er Scene
Boak expects at least half a dozen new brewers to start up in New Jersey in the coming year. As the craft beer industry grows, consumers will see more session beers, those that pack a lot of flavor like a traditional craft beer, but with a lower alcohol and grain content. The idea is that one can drink more without getting too intoxicated too quickly. Barrel-age craft beers are also very hot right now. Barrel-aging is a way for brewers to add extra complexity and layers of flavor to beer. A wooden barrel (usually oak) that was originally used to age a rum, wine, scotch or port, is used, Boak said. So the beer is infused with the flavor of what was once in the barrel and then you can add additional layers. To create his popular Abbey Brown and Two Blind Monks beers, Boak uses Jack Daniels-charred barrels and Madagascar vanilla beans. Hes currently experimenting with chipotle peppers to create a very drinkable beer that packs a slight punch.

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What Is a Craft Beer?

According the Brewers Association, an American craft brewer is defined as:
SMaLL
Annual production of 6 million barrels of beer or less.

St. Patricks Day

Live Entertainment
CORNED BEEF & CABBAGE BANGERS & MASH SHEPHERDS PIE FISH & CHIPS IRISH POTATO SOUP

CELEBRATE

INDEPENDENT
Less than 25 percent of the craft brewery is owned or controlled (or equivalent economic interest) by an alcoholic beverage industry member who is not himself a craft brewer.

X TRaDiTiONaL
A brewer who has either an all-malt flagship (the beer which represents the greatest volume among that brewers brands) or has at least 50 percent of its volume in either all malt beers or in beers which use adjuncts to enhance rather than lighten flavor.

Clyde Roberts Band Bagpipers throughout the Day

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EASTER SUNDAY APRIL 20TH. OPEN 12-9PM MOTHERS DAY MAY 11TH. OPEN 12-9PM

LET SOLARIS HOST YOUR SPECIAL EVENT

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The FLAVOR TOWN Express

In many homes across this great nation of ours, Friday night is pizza By Scott Kearney night. I don't know of any other food that has its own night of the week, and deservedly so. When it comes to pizza, the phrase, The whole is greater than the sum of its parts, couldn't be truer. Dough, tomato sauce, cheese, each tasty enough in its own right. Together, they create something truly special. I have done more than my share of consuming pizza (as well as burgers, subs, tacos, burritos and fried chicken) all in the name of research. My all-time favorite pizza was enjoyed at Scarglatto's at Paramus Park Mall. Unfortunately, it's no longer there, but there are plenty of other pizza paradises nearby. After all, the first pizzerias in the United States were opened in New York, and later, New Jersey, respectively. In 1905, Gennaro Lombardi opened the first pizzeria in the United States in New York City. When it comes to best thin crust pizza, Kinchley's Tavern (586 N. Franklin Turnpike) in Ramsey is the undisputed champion. This pie is all about the ultra thin crust which is crispy and delicious. The sauce is a bit sweet with a nice touch of oregano. The pizza is topped with a light layer of mozzarella cheese. Balance is key here. The crust, the sauce, and the cheese all complement one another and make for an outstanding thin crust pie. You can't get pizza by the slice at Kinchley's. Strictly whole pies only. The best Neapolitan pizza this side of Naples can be found at Three Guys from Italy (2854 Kennedy Boulevard) in Jersey City. If there is such a thing as the perfect Neapolitan pie, this is it. The crust is thin and crispy with just the right amount of chew. The sauce is a traditional pizza sauce. Savory. The mozzarella cheese on top is the real deal, producing ideal browning, melting, stretchiness and fat and moisture content. Three Guys from Italy is all about quality ingredients and pizzaioli (pizza makers) who know their stuff. Three Guys' Jersey City location may be a little bit out of the way for some, but it's definitely worth the trip.

Mangia, Mangia La Pizza

Northern Italian Cuisine

Choice of: Appetizer Salad Entrees (22 to choose from) Coffee or Tea and Homemade Dessert

Now before you go for that pizza run, there are three things you must remember:
SERVES 4-5 PEOPLE House Salad, Choice of Chicken, Choice of Pasta (from select menu items) Oven Roasted Potatoes and Fresh Sauteed Vegetables
+ tax

1. Pizza is best enjoyed with others.

2. Never eat pizza with a fork and knife.

3. As they say in Italy, Mangia.

Scott Kearney is an independent TV producer, writer for The Spot and operator of Flavor Town Express Fast Food Tours. For more information he can be reached at 201-594-0128.

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SPRING
Stateside Spri
As the insufferable winter of 2014 comes to a close, it is the perfect time to plan a Spring Break trip out of the polar vortex and into the warmth. Although the college crowd may flock to Cancun for a booze-filled holiday, no need to leave the U.S. to enjoy a bit of fun in the sun. Travel experts suggest the following stateside destinations to suit any budget:

Marco Island, Florida

You fly into Fort Myers and then drive down to this beautiful island, the largest of Floridas Ten Thousand Islands, located on the Gulf of Mexico. There are tropical white sand beaches, mangroves, water sports, airboat tours of the Everglades, great shelling opportunities, golf and fine dining. Collier Seminole State Park, just a few miles from the island, has primitive camping, canoeing, fishing, boating, picnic grounds and a mile-long nature walk. Marco Island is the epitome of Old Florida with modern day comforts. The average April high temperature: 84. Visit marcoislandflorida.org.

Phoenix

March is the best time to experience baseballs spring training. Where else but Phoenix can you go and see more than 15 major league teams - Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago Cubs, Colorado Rockies, Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, Los Angeles Dodgers, Milwaukee Brewers, Oakland Athletics, San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, Texas Rangers, Cleveland Indians, Chicago White Sox and Cincinnati Reds -play without ever having to drive more than an hour? The Cactus League ballparks are surrounded by mesas, rock formations and cacti, all in a sunny backdrop. Throughout March, travelers can expect great games, cheap tickets, and the opportunity to meet the athletes. Visit mlb.com/springtraining. 20 The Spot - March 2014

G BREAK
ng Getaways
New Orleans
Mardi Gras crowds are gone and the summers oppressive humidity hasnt yet arrived, making spring the ideal time to visit New Orleans. The French Market features numerous retail shops, a farmers market, food vendors and live music. Hop aboard an open-air streetcar to see the southern mansions along St. Charles Avenue. The Audubon Zoo presents animals in unique natural habitats as part of the Louisiana Swamp, Jaguar Jungle and African Savanna exhibits. A guided swamp tour is the best way to see the Louisiana bayou, complete with cypresses draped in Spanish moss, waterfowl and alligators. And no trip to NOLA is complete without a stop at Caf du Monde for beignets. Visit neworleansonline.com.

San Diego

Blessed with great weather year round, San Diego the ideal place for families looking to combine a beach vacation with attractions such as the San Diego Zoo, Disneyland, and Legoland all just a short drive away. Theres the Maritime Museum to learn a bit of nautical history, the historical Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park and some of the countrys best Mexican cuisine. A daytrip to the pristine Coronado Island is a must. Affordable lodging can be found away from the beach in the downtown area. Visit sandiego.org.

Grant County, West Virginia

Located just over five hours from Hackensack, Grant County is an easy Spring Break getaway for nature lovers and history buffs, all without the hassle of flying. The South Branch of the North Fork of the Potomac River boasts some of the best trout fishing the country has to offer. Grant Countys battlefields, trails and museums are a draw for any Civil War enthusiast. Travelers can visit Fort Mulligan, one of the countrys most well preserved earthen forts, and the huge collection of military vehicles, gear and weapons at the Top Kicks Military Museum. The county also hosts Civil War train rides throughout the year. North Fork Mountain Trails offer hikers the opportunity to see rare wildlife and is considered one of the most ecologically and biologically significant areas in the Central Appalachian Forest ecosystem. Visit http://www.grantcountywva.com.

Photography, left inset, by Alex Demyan, of a French Quarter balcony in New Orleans. This page, Camelback Mountain, in Phoenix. Inset, top right, Eau Resort and Spa in Manalapan, Fla., two hours from Marco Island, by Gail Vachon.

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A Warm Heart Remembers

By Barbara J. Gooding We often associate the cold and frosty months of winter with such honorable holidays as Presidents Day and Martin Luther King Day, however the one that brings us warmth, symbolism, traditions and romance is none other than Valentines Day. There are many theories of how this holiday came about but one of the most popular points to Roman times and a priest named Valentine. At the time, the fear of bloody war battles began deterring soldiers from leaving their wives and families. Knowing so, Emperor Claudius II outlawed all future engagements and marriages. Valentine however secretly continued to arrange marriages between young women and men. When this was discovered, he was put to death on Feb. 14, on or about 270 AD. Not long after his death, Valentine was declared a saint for all his goodness and heroism in defying the emperor. In 498 AD, Pope Gelasius proclaimed Feb. 14 as St. Valentines Day and it officially became an occasion to celebrate love. Today, one cannot mistake the approach of this romantic holiday. After New Years, stores quickly stock their shelves with heart-shaped candy boxes, jewelry, articles of red clothing and the best deals on a dozen long-stemmed red roses. Candy boxes have a Valentines Day history of their own. Years back, the decorative boxes were made of sateen or an embroidered fabric trimmed to perfection. Some displayed an image of a lovely Victorian era lady, impeccably dressed and carrying a parasol in one hand and some bonbons or chocolate macaroons in the other. Brand names such as Russell Stover, Fannie May, Van Houten and Whitmans have been most popular during this holiday. In the 1970s, the cover of a Russell Stover heart-shaped candy box may have had the face of Elvis Presley adorning it or even Barbie. Valentines Day would not be complete without speaking of Cupid, a winged, impish little angel, presumed to be the son of Venus, the goddess of love. With his arrow, invisible to human eyes, hed draw his bow and shoot unknowing victims only for them to fall in love, sometimes with the first person they saw. Lovebirds and doves are also symbols of this holiday. Both birds tend to keep in pairs and stay with their mates for life. Other symbols are the sugary hearts with sweet little phrases such as Be Mine or Forever Yours. Thinking back as a child, I recall bringing small Valentine cards to school and placing them in a box with a slot similar to a mailbox that was embellished with hearts made from paper doilies. Later in the day, our Valentines would be distributed in the classroom. It was quite exciting. Lastly, we cannot forget the many movies weve seen that pull on our heart strings, An Affair to Remember, Love is a Many Splendored Thing, Pretty Woman, Casablanca and The Notebook just to name a few. Then there are the love songs such as My Funny Valentine, which has been sung by many artists including Billie Holiday and Bing Crosby. Dont forget Neil Sedaka singing Calendar Girl, specifically stating February, you are my little Valentine; When I Fall in Love by Nat King Cole; Endless Love by Lionel Richie and so many more. So no matter how you spend Valentines Day, dont forget to extend some love and care to yourself. Pamper yourself with some chocolates, take in a movie, listen to some songs, spend it with a loved one or someone special. Maybe even try to determine who many years ago may have sent you a little card simply asking you to Be Mine.

Barbara J. Gooding is a creative and historical writer based in Hackensack. Johannah Purdon contributed to this report.

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Forecast Brightening
By Victoria Healey
The good news is that the local central Bergen County area has a healthy housing inventory with a 6.2-month supply of homes for sale (according to the January 2014 Otteau Report). At this level, the market has stabilized and prices are no longer decreasing. Hackensack has a 6.9-month supply of inventory. Paramus and Maywood, with a 3.9-month supply and 3.7-month supply, respectively, are at a level in which inventory is becoming scarce and buyers may vie for properties. According to the National Association of Realtors, the number of sales for all of 2013 was the highest since 2006, and median prices, throughout much of the country, maintained strong growth. The number of home sales nationally is up 9.1 percent in 2013 vs. 2012, and prices nationally also increased for the same time period.The number of distressed properties on the market has decreased from more than 24 percent in December 2012 to approximately 14 percent in December 2013. In the Northeast, we see that the number of sales of existing homes is up by 6.6 percent; pending sales are also on the rise, as reported in The National Association of Realtors Existing Home Sales Report (December 2013). However, it is important to note that while sales are on the rise, prices themselves in New Jersey are still down from their all-time high in June 2006 by approximately 15 to 20 percent, according to Corelogics economic report. We still have a way to go but expect we can look forward to a more normalized market with some appreciation as we move through this year.

Spot lig ht

R e a l E s tat e

The real estate market in New Jersey, as in many parts of the country, has been extremely challenging and hard to navigate for the past few years. Prices have dropped precipitously, inventory has been stagnant and short sales and foreclosures are rampant. Homeowners are even beginning to doubt the value of home ownership. In 2012, we started to see gradual signs of improvement and that carried into 2013. Industry reports are just now confirming how much the market improved last year.
These statistics indicate that we can expect a brisk spring real estate market. This, coupled with still very low, although increasing, interest rates presents an opportunity for homebuyers to make their move while housing remains affordable. For the first time in a long time, we can look forward to increased buying and selling, and with that will come a stronger demand for real estate inventory. Those first-time homebuyers who were fearful to take the plunge will now more seriously consider purchasing a home. And, those homeowners who were patiently waiting for a market rebound will finally be able to extract some equity from their R homes and confidently move forward with E greater purchasing power. Repeat C buyers wishing to relocate, retire or O move to a larger home can finally make V a move. E

All Signs Point to a

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Victoria Healey is broker-owner of Vikki Healey Properties, based in Maywood. She may be contacted at vhealey@vikkihealey.com.

The real estate market is full of opportunity right now. For both sellers and buyers this may, indeed, be just the year to take your real estate dreams off hold.

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Main Street

App

Main Street at Your Fingertips

Searching for a new restaurant for date night? Need a specialty item but dont feel like dealing with the mall traffic and lack of parking?
The Hackensack Main Street App features the addresses, phone numbers, links to Web sites and even reviews of the more than 300 eateries, specialty stores, retailers and service providers located on Main Street, between Atlantic and East Anderson streets. Some of the newest listings include Buy and Save Furniture, 153 Main St.; Always Home Care, 187 Main St.; Main Street Barbershop, 203 Main St.; Attilis Grill & Cafe, 215 Main St.; Young Forever Kids Apparel, 217 Main St.; International Bakery (Italy - Ecuador - Mexico), 221 Main St.; and El Panecillo Bakery & Cafe, 260 Main St. When looking for restaurants users may filter by cuisine or distance from a location. One may also save and star favorite retail shops, restaurants and service providers, visit merchant Web sites or call them right from the app. One may also filter by type of business. Other features include: Integrated Google maps and navigation for location finding Parking tab for easy navigation to all shopper parking Real estate section to list or find retail and office space on Main Street Events section listing Main Street happenings We are so excited to be able to give both residents and visitors to Hackensack a user-friendly iPhone or Android app that will allow them to explore all that Downtown Hackensack offers, says Jerome Lombardo, board chairman, Upper Main Alliance, the group which created the app. Not only does this app help you find the various retailers and restaurants. But it is also great for people who are looking to take advantage of the Hackensack downtown rehabilitation as it lists available commercial real estate with pictures and contacts. The app also features an event tab which lists happenings throughout Hackensacks Downtown. We wanted to offer residents and visitors a sleek, convenient way to see the districts offerings at a glance. The app does just that, adds Al Dib, executive director, Upper Main Alliance. Unlike a printed guided, the apps dynamic content can be modified and published in an instant. Were confident that this new tool will prove beneficial and enjoyable to businesses and customers alike.

The new free mobile app, offered in both the App Store (for iPhone) and Play Store (for Android) can be easily found by searching Hackensack Main Street.

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