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COMING ATTRACTION: Sunday April 5th at 7PM “Authors in the Round: Armstrong, Schwartz and Rienzi”(0) COMING ATTRACTION: Sunday April 5th at 7PM “Authors in the Round: Armstrong, Schwartz and Rienzi”
NJ Discover’s feature writer and correspondent, Calvin Schwartz is one of three authors participating this Sunday April 5th at 7PM “Authors in the Round: Armstrong, Schwartz and Rienzi” You can listen, tune in, chat or catch the video feed or even come on down to 40 Foot Hole Studios. LISTEN HERE 7PM SUNDAY NIGHT APRIL 5TH http://page.cloudradionetwork.com/40foot/ VIDEO LINK: WATCH IT LIVE: https://new.livestream.com/accounts/3269343/events/3939192
Join us for a lively discussion with these talented authors. They will share bits of their latest novels, their journey to bestsellers, what makes them tick and anything else that comes up. Come to the studio to meet them or listen/watch online and ask your questions in the chatroom. Light fare will be available. BYOB. Your host for this adventure into the world of writing is Karen Kenney Smith, author and President of Three Worlds Press.
FACEBOOK EVENT PAGE: https://www.facebook.com/events/1067342579946268/
40 Foot Hole Studios Murray Grove Retreat and Renewal Center 431 N Main St (Rt 9), PO Box 246, Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey 08734
MEET THE AUTHORS!!!!!
Let us introduce the first of our three authors: Franny Armstrong. Franny will be joining us live via SKYPE from Toronto. Born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Franny Armstrong has written creatively since she was a child. Her mother always told her to write down her feelings and she did. When she was ten, she started writing and acting out plays in her garage for the neighborhood kids. |
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COMING ATTRACTION: #HotNJ Competition for the Best ‘Made in New Jersey’ Hot Sauces. Highlands NJ Saturday March 28 By Calvin Schwartz(0) COMING ATTRACTION: #HotNJ Competition for the Best ‘Made in New Jersey’ Hot Sauces. Highlands NJ Saturday March 28
NJ Discover has added this Hot Sauce Competition to our Coming Attraction feature here on the website for several poignant reasons. The obvious: the sauces are made HERE in New Jersey and the BEST reason; NJ Discover’s duo team of correspondents/reporters, Tara_Jean Vitale and Calvin Schwartz have been invited as media to be among the panel of judges!! For all our readers, coming on down makes for a fun Saturday. In addition to the contest ambiance, The Highlands has much history and sites including a special sculpture memorial to 9-11. Across Highway 36 are the Twin Lights, the only connected lighthouse in the world. Sandy Hook is a mile away. So come on down to Chilangos in Highlands at 2pm. Calvin Schwartz
Jersey Shore Vacations New Jersey’s premiere travel website, is planning a competition to pick the best “Made in New Jersey” hot sauces. The #HotNJ judging will take place on Saturday, March 28, 2015 at Chilangos in Highlands, from 2pm. The public is welcome to attend, as some of the producers will be there to offer samplings. The format will be a blind tasting, and categories will include Best Hot Sauce, Best Medium/Mild Sauce and Best Flavor. Eligible for the competition are any hot sauces crafted in NJ. The sauces in the competition include: Heartbreaking Dawns, Born to Hula, Hot Sauce 4 Good, Krazy Flav, Hank Sauce and Blair’s. Below you can read detailed reviews of some of these producers: The panel will consist of a number of food bloggers, restaurateurs and media personalities. The results, with comments from the panelists, will be made public shortly after the judging. A special announcement of the winners will also be made during the Jersey Shore Biz Fest (April 15 at the Sheraton Eatontown).
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New Jersey, Homelessness and Charles Dickens; Awareness, Advocacy, Activism and Sherry Rubel BY Calvin Schwartz March 22, 2015(0) New Jersey, Homelessness and Charles Dickens; Awareness, Advocacy, Activism and Sherry Rubel BY Calvin Schwartz March 22, 2015
Four years ago, homelessness was a distant concept for me living in suburban Monmouth County. My only realization that fellow humans were homeless came from TV news stories in New York City when the wind chill was zero and the police humanely gathered and deposited them in temporary shelters for the night. On expeditions to New York City, for a day at the museum or a family dinner, I’d see homeless people, sometimes sitting on the steps of a church, or lying on the cold concrete, passed out, inebriated or worse. Occasionally, I’d see an ostensibly homeless person with a sign and cup trying to raise money. Once on 33rd Street, I saw a homeless woman and small child asking for money. I gave them a few dollars. What always hits me is that when every human is born, we arrive from the womb and are exactly the same in the hope and dream department for that brief moment in time.
I never saw homelessness here in Jersey because I’ve been sheltered in the suburbs most of my adult life. Then four years ago, I transitioned into Journalism from a successful career in optical sales and management; quite a difference. Three years ago, I was asked to cover an Easter Sunday benefit concert in Lakewood, New Jersey for Tent City; a community of homeless people living in the woods in tents without power or heat for up to ten years. News of these horrific conditions began to trickle into local media. Rosemary Conte, activist, organized the event. At the end, Tent City founder, Minister Stephen Brigham brought a busload of residents of Tent City to receive donated clothing and food. It was a hard rain for me to see and process; homelessness. I had no idea or understanding.
A few months after Hurricane Sandy, Sherry Rubel, a photographer and activist, produced a concert in Asbury Park to raise money for victims. Rosemary introduced me to Sherry and a month later, I met Sherry for coffee on Route 18 and learned all about the realities and exigencies of Tent City. Then on cold cloudy morning in February, with patches of snow on the ground and smoke sneaking out from the tent’s wood-burning stoves, Sherry Rubel escorted NJ Discover’s Tara-Jean Vitale and me on a tour of Tent City; it was stark, inhospitable and brutally real. Homeless humans were living in conditions that made it seem like it was 1929 and Herbert Hoover was on the radio. We walked around and visited people in their tents; it was deathly cold. A strange eerie silence followed us. My soul has never been the same since. These last few years, I see the world a little different and I’m grateful to Sherry for the consciousness raising and awareness. She boldly continues her activism.
Recently I heard that Sherry went to N.J. Senate Speaker Steve Sweeney’s office last September and met with his staff to discuss how tiny homes could meet the needs of the homeless. That discussion led Legislative Senate Bill 2571, which has gained acclaim and is currently now being sponsored by Sen. Raymond Lesniak. In this particular article: http://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/local/2015/03/08/manufactured-tiny-homes-affordable-home-options/24436415/Advocates It states “Rubel fears her original vision of building a community with services as well as tiny homes is getting lost, and that the bill only provides for the construction of affordable homes.”
When a court resolution was finalized in 2013, Tent City in Lakewood was bulldozed and what was home for over a hundred homeless (un-housed humans) over a period of seven years was gone. These Ocean County homeless no longer had a safe haven and temporary housing alternative. When Tent City went to Ocean County Court over a year ago, (I sat in court with them) to determine its ultimate fate, people were appalled and outraged with the decision which left no permanent resolution for the homeless of Ocean County. After this decision, Sherry Rubel was driven and determined to bring the spirit of ‘Destiny’s Bridge’ to fruition and bring about the realization of the “Tiny Home Pilot Program” legislation. And so it all goes with no resolution, permanency or humanity. We are almost one year later and many Tent City people are homeless again and looking for a clearing in the trees to set up another tent. And so are many other homeless/un-housed humans falling into the darkness of a bleak unaffordable economy and housing environment.
Sherry Rubel spoke to me about the current state of homelessness. “The Tiny Home Pilot Program legislation was never about affordable housing as politicians, HUD and Social Services interpret it. I don’t speak political language full of policy and regulations. I speak from my heart. I don’t care about how things work in a system that’s already broken. I only care about finding answers and discovering new innovative ideas that work to assist in resolving a critical problem that needs to be addressed. I guess I’m an outside the box thinker; still believe that where there is a will there’s a way. That’s what I’m trying to do; assist in coming up with new innovative ideas and thinking. What I’ve discovered is how boxed in everyone actually is. Everyone seems to get in their own way. Please don’t get me wrong. There are many organizations with great programs that are working and those organizations should be praised for their amazing work but so much more is needed. I want to take the best of them all and apply it to a practical workable program. I call it ‘REVIVAL VILLAGE’ www.revivalvillage.com which is a three phase innovative, sustainable, holistic, and economically efficient approach to resolving a very critical issue; perhaps one of the most pressing issues of our time. Everyone ultimately has something to contribute to a community/village. All we really need is land. We have the plans all laid out.”
As I wrap up this article and finished talking with Sherry, I need to send props to Steve Conboy from Eco Building Products who has generously provided a donation of 14 emergency shelters/ Tiny Homes for immediate use. Not only does Steve want to assist in this project but he would like to employ homeless residents of “Revival Village” with building jobs for the Tiny Homes. It’s important to mention that ‘Destiny’s Bridge,’ is also a wonderful documentary created by Filmmaker Jack Ballo that will be showing at Salt Studios in Asbury Park on Saturday April 11th. Jack spent years at Tent City in Lakewood telling their story. I’ve seen the documentary several times; it’s powerful, beautiful and riveting. There is so much to say about homelessness; it’s overwhelming. I recall a recent study by NASA scientists that gives our species another 30 years or so. One of the culprits (also climate change, food, water) is social unrest on a global scale. Now I look back to when Charles Dickens published ‘A Christmas Carol’ in 1843. Scrooge asked “Are there no workhouses?” In Dickens’ writing, the Spirit of Christmas Present reveals two children representing Want and Ignorance. The issues of homelessness (Want) in New Jersey are daunting and overwhelming. As I see it, not much has changed here in New Jersey (and Ocean County) since 1843. Calvin Schwartz
PLEASE HELP SPREAD THE WORD!!! TRENTON HOSTS APRIL 15TH GLOBAL RALLY FOR THE HOMELESS On April 15th cities in the U.K., Ireland, Canada and the USA will be rallying in solidarity for and with our homeless brothers and sisters around the world. The EVENT in NJ will take place at the State House in Trenton, beginning at 10:00 AM and running until approximately 2 PM.
https://www.facebook.com/events/788420991213835/ “The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much; it is whether we provide enough for those who have little.” – President Franklin Roosevelt
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Hold On To A Moment: A Journey to Jersey Centenarians: A Series: Meet William Theodore Zimmerman; World War II Veteran March 16, 2015 Calvin Schwartz(2) Hold On To A Moment: A Journey to Jersey Centenarians: A Series: Meet William Theodore Zimmerman; World War II Veteran March 14, 2015 By: Calvin Schwartz
For years, I’ve been watching Willard Scott’s segment on ‘The Today Show’ where the face of a centenarian (100 years or older) appears on a jar of jelly for a brief moment while he recites a sentence or two about their lives; perhaps mentioning a life style or diet which helped longevity. For decades, I’ve observed that life is for the living. As soon as you can’t shoot hoops, or drive at night, or put eye drops in, or remember President Kennedy, it may be time for assisted living or a nursing home or an obscure room in a finished basement; out of sight, mainstream and utilization. Invisibility is a factor. It’s hard to notice seniors on the beach, in a mall or at a football game; but they’re there. How often are they engaged? These are heavy thoughts. I hope to capture them all; they’ve been floating around my sensibilities since 1965 when I was a student at Rutgers College of Pharmacy. Sitting in the back of a lecture hall, doodling in a notebook, I decided not to age traditionally; a long story and my upcoming second novel. Lately, I’ve been thinking about all those relatives who’ve passed and how it seems I didn’t hold them longer and embrace time. Fists are clenched in a futile gesture of wishing for a few more moments; if only. A few months back, I came to the stark realization that I am the family patriarch now. How did that happen? A long winding road has taken me from pharmacy and eyewear careers to writing and journalism and rock music with a few green rooms for socialization. It’s like I want to yell, “Hey Mah, look no hands and I fit in perfectly and I’m the oldest one.” A few years ago, I was invited to journalistically cover the 101st birthday party for Emily Cook. We became friends and I eventually interviewed her on camera for national media; she invited me back to her room on camera. (Video link available) That was a special moment for me; she was vital, funny, worldly, out-spoken and replete with knowledge and experience wanting to share. I went to her next birthday party and visited during the year as a friend. Her Herbert Hoover and Depression stories fascinated. The lesson was how precious, energetic and insightful she was and that I could learn from her; Use it or lose it deal.
All of the aforementioned are the yellow brick road components to my journalistic journey to meet and absorb our precious centenarians in an on-going series and eventually a novel (book). And now, meet William Theodore Zimmerman. As a Jersey journalist, I was thrilled to be in the shadow of Rutgers stadium, an area rich in colonial history, interviewing a centenarian in a house that was built in 1830; all key energetic ambiance factors for me. Then Warren Zimmerman, from the State Theater in New Brunswick, escorted his father William Theodore Zimmerman, the 100 year old birthday boy into the living room. William was perfectly appointed wearing a herring bone sport coat; his big family party was an hour later. There was no way William was 100; maybe 80. Once we started talking, I was convinced he was a few decades younger. His voice resonated with a certain excitement, authority and youth.
“How does it feel to be 100?” “No different.” He chuckled. I asked what he did for a living. He was quick to answer, smiling coyly. “I am nothing. All I am is a Jack of All Trades and a Master of None. I did everything you can imagine.” “Years ago, you only worked as long as they needed you. I worked in the shipyards of Hoboken. You went down there and got picked out of a crowd to do a job. Maybe you got three days of work; maybe one. If you were a good worker, they picked you more often.” All of a sudden I had a flashback of Marlon Brando and the movie, ‘On the Waterfront,’ which took place right where William worked. “You grew up in the Depression?” What I liked about interviewing William, was his ever-present smile and rapid fire responses. He is so sharp; a gift. “There’s a lot of difference between a Depression years ago and today. The whole country was in a depression and everybody was poor with no work. It was a hard time to get food. In the city where we lived (North Bergen) if you couldn’t buy food, you didn’t eat. When we finally moved to Piscataway, my mother had three or four acres so we grew our own food.”
I always get a kick out of asking about President Herbert Hoover akin to my son asking me about President Kennedy. “I was a kid. How much did I know about politics? I thought he was good. But we had to move a lot when we ran out of money and couldn’t pay rent. We searched around and hired a horse and wagon to move our stuff. There was no car.” The horse reference was like a gentle reality slap to my face to snap out of it. William really went back 100 years. There was a chronological order to my planned interview. Next was World War II although Warren mentioned a few days earlier that his father never talked about the war. But then William started to talk with a special vigor. “I was in the Navy. This guy tricked me. I was a welder and worked for GM then. GM got a big contract to teach employees different things. They taught me chrome-moly welding; then the war. I enlisted in the Navy. I said to the guy that I was taught welding. I have a certificate which I didn’t get yet. He said don’t worry about it. They were going to give me rate of third class petty officer. He tricked me right into it.” Then I had another movie flashback thinking of Goldie Hawn, in ‘Private Benjamin’ when she was tricked into thinking the Army accommodations were like Club Med. William was in the Navy for 3 ½ years. He worked up to 2nd class ship fitter. I asked if he saw any action. He laughed loudly. “Quite a bit. I was on the battleship Arkansas. When I first got on, they told us convoy duty taking cargo and people to Europe.” Once again I had a flashback. Coincidentally, a month earlier, I watched the ‘Victory at Sea’ series from the 1950’s featuring the music of Richard Rodgers. An hour show was devoted to convoys and their ever-present danger from German subs.
“Then they talked about the coming invasion.” William’s peaking enthusiasm at this juncture made me think I was talking to a 40 year old. “They put us into the New York Navy Yard and rebuilt our ship which was built in 1914. The biggest guns we had was 12” and we didn’t have the 16” like newer ships. Now we became a fighting ship. Then the invasion; our target was Juno beach. Since we were an older ship, they told us because our big turrets shot only so far, that we had to beach our ship and then fire. The Germans were fortified. We figured the end of us. We got there at 3 AM and opened fire at day break. Then when we opened fire, we did so well; we got orders not to beach it. After the invasion, Cherbourg was a powerful German fortress and we got orders with the (USS) Texas and other ships to go in and draw their fire.” Being a good reporter, I went to Google and checked out his story. William was right on. I even found a picture of the Arkansas and Texas being fired upon. He is so sharp. After a while they shipped William and the Arkansas to the Pacific. “We went to Guam and Iwo Jima where they put the flag.” I knew it’s one of the most famous military pictures. “That was our target 2 ½ miles off the coast. We saw the flag. It was beautiful. After Iwo Jima we went to Okinawa but I’m not sure if it’s the right order. Then we were in a typhoon. Then we were supposed to go to Japan but they dropped the bomb.” William reinforced my memory of President Truman deciding to drop the bomb rather than risk all those American and Japanese lives during a prolonged land invasion.
When William came home, a lot of people wanted him to talk about the war but he wanted to forget. “So many people were killed but it had to be.” He also realized he was on the luckiest ship. He told me about D-Day and the German planes flying so close overhead, he could see their large swastika. He was up on deck manning a 3” anti-aircraft gun. The next day they heard that a German plane had a bomb on it that got stuck and crashed and exploded. “It could’ve sunk us.” It was time to change subjects. “What do you like best about New Jersey?” “Everything; I love New Jersey.” The biggest change for William was population growth. Being a movie buff, I had to tap into his history. He laughed when I mentioned movies. “I have to laugh. Charlie Chaplin used to tickle me. I got a kick out of him and Harold Lloyd, the guy with glasses. Jerry Lewis was very talented.” William likes all kinds of music and the big bands like Glenn Miller and Dorsey. He plays a little piano, played football in Weehawken, basketball and tennis as well but doesn’t like hockey because “all they do is fight.” He reiterated all the jobs he had working for GM, Ford, Rutgers Prep, floorcovering, home improvements. He helped build his mother, sisters and his own house. “I don’t know how I had all this energy or lived this long. I don’t know how good vitamins are. What I did all my life was listen to my parents.”
We were winding down our time together. The front doorbell rang as party guests started to arrive. He volunteered this next segment. “Bill, what can I do to live as long as you? Women especially asked that.” He chuckled when he said that. What a sense of humor. “I had two good parents, two good wives. I did everything in moderation; everything but smoke. My mother was a practical nurse who hated smoking. My generation; we were poor but happy. My parents taught us religion. We didn’t always have to go to church; you have it in your home. Just look at my two boys. There is a supreme being; too many miracles in this world.” Miracles; a good word to finish my time with William; It fit perfectly. I’ve got to come up with reasons to spend more time with him. We hugged and I thanked him. Then I told him the one word in my mind from the beginning of our hour; enchanting. And he is perfectly so. |
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COMING ATTRACTION; A SPECIAL NIGHT: 5 Year Anniversary of FREEHOLD NJ NETWORK FOR SUCCESS at PARK 33 FREEHOLD WEDNESDAY JAN 21st 7 PM By Calvin Schwartz(0) COMING ATTRACTION; A SPECIAL NIGHT: 5 Year Anniversary of FREEHOLD NJ NETWORK FOR SUCCESS at PARK 33 FREEHOLD WEDNESDAY JAN 21st 7 PM By Calvin Schwartz
Wendy and John Bruzzese created the Freehold NJ Network for Success five years ago giving of their time, energy and contagious passion to bring people together in a social and business atmosphere. I met them three years ago and marvel at their continuing commitment and dedication. For me, back then, entering a new experience of central Jersey journalism, what a perfect opportunity to connect and network in a casual atmosphere. I can’t put an exact figure on how many people, connections and journalistic opportunities that Wendy and John’s Network have given me but it’s substantive. Interacting with professionals and business people, my central Jersey connections have been so dramatically enhanced by the Freehold Network For Success. Actually I’ve pinched myself a few times at events; hundreds of people with shared interests, food, music, prizes, networking, and they don’t charge you; it’s one of those too good to be true organizations.
I remember the Christmas after Hurricane Sandy and how they used a Network event for this amazing toy drive for the affected communities; they keep finding ways to give back. They’ve been active in many anti-bullying campaigns; more giving back to the community. So the FNFS is celebrating their 5th Anniversary. So one of my favorite expressions is “get thee off the sedentary sofa and come on over.” Please do, get the chance to meet Wendy and John Bruzzese and a few hundred other people who probably have the same concentric circles of commonality as you; a great way to start a new year and you just never know the connection waiting. Calvin Schwartz January 9, 2015
***SAVE THE DATE for an amazing night of networking*** Come celebrate the 5 Year Anniversary of FREEHOLD NJ NETWORK FOR SUCCESS at PARK 33…..and KICK OFF 2014 and our 5th Year of this group together!!! THIS IS OUR WAY OF SAYING THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR MEMBERS and SUPPORTERS over the last 5 YEARS!!! ***PRIZES*** The first 200 ATTENDEES will receive the following: If you attended last years anniversary, you know that we had over 300 networkers attend and gave many HUGE gifts away along with a goodie bag to all attendees!!! Our host MATT BOROWSKI of PARK/PUB 33 has always been very supportive of the group and our members opening his doors to everyone and doing business with many group members. There will be Drink specials (Beer, Wine & Mixed Drinks) and lite snacks all night provided by our host. Adding some fun to the event…..would like to give a special THANK YOU to Pete Stoermer from PhotoBooths4All for providing the group with his photo booth for the event!!! As always, there is NO COST FOR THIS EVENT!!! Just bring your positive attitude and desire to meet new people! Feel free to bring lots of business cards or bring a resume. THIS GROUP IS ALL ABOUT HELPING PEOPLE and BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS!!! OUR EVENTS HAVE BEEN HUGE SUCCESSES with anywhere from 200-300 PEOPLE!!!!! More importantly we have lots of people helping each other, doing business and also raising awareness and money for great local charities and organizations!!! See you there, ========================== FACEBOOK EVENT PAGE: ttps://www.facebook.com/events/742220525870793/ |
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A MAJOR COMING ATTRACTION NOT TO BE MISSED: THE 3rd ANNUAL BIG MAN’S BIRTHDAY BASH FOR CLARENCE CLEMONS AT BAR ANTICIPATION ON JANUARY 10, 2015 By Calvin Schwartz(0) A MAJOR COMING ATTRACTION NOT TO BE MISSED: THE 3rd ANNUAL BIG MAN’S BIRTHDAY BASH FOR CLARENCE CLEMONS AT BAR ANTICIPATION ON JANUARY 10, 2015 By Calvin Schwartz
Two years ago NJ Discover was hugely honored when we were asked to work the red carpet at the First Annual Big Man’s Birthday Bash for Clarence Clemons at the Wonder Bar. We interviewed the guests and celebrities and by the shank of the evening realized the commonality everyone shared; a powerful love and respect for Clarence and Nick. It probably sounds a bit trite but all night long you could feel this special energy bouncing around the Wonder Bar. You were excited to be there and absorb the molecular historic energy of the iconic Clarence. You felt something unique; glad to be alive and be part of it all. Last year the response to the 2nd Annual Big Man’s Birthday Bash was so large and anticipated they moved it to Martel’s in Point Pleasant. Once again the music and energy was magic. It lasted for hours. No one wanted to leave. The town curfew was exceeded; testament to the amazing night.
And this year, as the event grows in scope, performers and celebrities and in reasons for our world here in central Jersey to be there, absorb and partake, the event moves to Bar A in Belmar and becomes basically an all day/night party of music, food, drink and friends. Therefore it really is not to be missed. And as always, by careful design, there’s yet another reason to be there; a perfect charity to support; Hometown Heroes which embodies the very fabric of our life here in central Jersey. See you on January 10th 2015. Calvin Schwartz
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 17, 2014 THE 3rd ANNUAL BIG MAN’S BIRTHDAY BASH FOR CLARENCE CLEMONS AT BAR ANTICIPATION ON JANUARY 10, 2015 Lake Como, NJ – On January 10, 2015, the Jersey Shore celebrates the birthday of Hosted by actor, Vincent Pastore (“Big Pussy” from The Sopranos), featured acts include The Sensational Soul Cruisers, JoBonanno and the Godsons of Soul, Killer Joe and Lido Soul, The Eddie Testa Band, The Nick Clemons Band and many others. An All-Star line-up of Special Guest Artists that will join performing bands includes Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Gene Cornish (The Rascals), legends Bobby Bandiera (a regular member of Bon Jovi and a former Asbury Juke) and JT Bowen (the original frontman for Clemons’s Red Bank Rockers), “Mad Dog” Vini Lopez (Rock and Roll Hall of Famer as the original drummer for Springsteen’s E Street Band) and Lance Larson (original frontman for Lord Gunner). Also appearing will be Springsteen-fan favorite, “The Philly Elvis,” Nick Ferraro (who was most-favored by fans in the documentary, “Springsteen and I”) and actor, Artie Pasquale (whose credits include a regular role on The Sopranos). Many other guests are announced and more are expected to be added. Nick Clemons a.k.a. Clarence Clemons III is the oldest son of Clemons and a co-producer of the event. He states, “My father always taught me to ‘Give back’ and remember the less fortunate. I try to do that and Hometown Heroes does great work for those in need.” This is the third year that Clemons and his team have produced the Birthday Bash. Co-producer/Terry Camp is an attorney and long-time member of the Jersey Shore music community. He recalled, “When Clarence passed, Wonder Bar in Asbury Park hosted the Sensational Soul Cruisers and The Nick Clemons Band for a memorial show in July 2011. Bruce was kind enough to join us that epic night and we’ve been building on it since – selling out Wonder Bar in December 2012 and packing Martell’s in Point Pleasant last January. The show gets bigger and bigger every year.” He added, “We’re thrilled to be working with Tom Jannarone and his Bar Anticipation team. That place is cream of the crop for a diverse and quality entertainment experience.” The show will feature guest jams that are a long-time tradition on the Shore. Bash details and frequent updates are at the Facebook Event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/741748815903741/ Full line-up to date and guests are added regularly: Master of Ceremonies Vincent Pastore (Day Set) (Dinner and Gift Raffle) (Night Set) And Very Special Guests throughout including Gene Cornish The Bash is produced by the team of Nick Clemons (artist and first son of Clarence Clemons), Terry Camp (attorney/promoter), and Mike Schwartz (Hometown Heroes). The producers thank D2Toons Studios http://www.d2toons.com/ for its graphics work and especially thank “Born to Run” photographer, Eric Meola, for permission to use his Clarence photo and Tom Jannarone and his team at Bar A. About Hometown Heroes www.usahometownheroes.org Bar Anticipation www.bar-a.com For Press/Media inquiries and access: e-mail Terry Camp at tcamp@buddlarner.com. Phone – (973)315-4432
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A SPECIAL LADY: HATTIE SMELTER’S 100TH BIRTHDAY PARTY By CALVIN SCHWARTZ December 19th 2014(0) A SPECIAL LADY: HATTIE SMELTER’S 100TH BIRTHDAY PARTY By CALVIN SCHWARTZ December 19th 2014
Three years ago, because of a special synchronicity, I was invited to the birthday party of Emily Cook, turning 101, at Arbor Terrace of Middletown (formerly Regal Pointe). It was a particularly poignant experience for me. I got a chance to talk to Emily at length after her festive party with all the senior residents, musical entertainment (Jerry Spathis)and a birthday cake fit for a centenarian. Emily was sharp and filled with emoted memories. Her descriptions of the Great Depression and her life in general were riveting. We became friends and the following year, I went to her 102nd birthday party and somewhere in between parties, I managed to bring a TV crew and interview her live. On camera, she invited me back to her room; I laughed and still do, thinking about that.
The video went national. I learned a life lesson; how precious and meaningful time spent with seniors can be. They can fill your senses and quest for historical first-hand accounts; that unique commentary/perspective not found on Google. Too often these days, I wish upon a star I had spent more time talking to grandparents and parents and seniors down the block, filling a void in my roots and knowledge.
I got a message a few weeks ago on Facebook from Darci Voight Kennedy, from Arbor Terrace, that another resident (it’s not assisted living but independent senior living), Hattie Smelter was turning 100 on December 12th and once again I was invited to the birthday party. I knew right away I’d be there. Arbor Place was adorned with balloons and party signage. Waiting for the party to begin, Hattie, perfectly coiffed and looking 25 years younger than her age, was sitting off to the side in the lobby talking to the party entertainer, a vibrant talented Cathy DaPrato. I overheard Hattie mention one of her favorite songs was ‘Goodnight Sweetheart.’ I remembered the song from ‘American Graffiti’ and originally from the ‘Spaniels’ in 1954; still within my memory banks. I sat and listened to a hit parade of memorable songs while the party rolled on. Hattie got up to dance with several different partners. Again she looked 25 years younger; she moved gracefully. While entertainer Cathy was talking, a resident, John Sorrentino, sat down next to me. He was only 91 and met Hattie for the first time a year ago at the mailbox which he had a hard time opening due to failing vision. Hattie walked over, took the key and opened it. A few weeks later he asked Hattie to be his girlfriend. She replied, “It’s too late.” John went on to tell me about his career as a building inspector in Florida. Later in his apartment, he’d show me a commendation letter for being honest and avoiding corruption and an invitation from President Bush to attend a special dinner. John hinted we should work on a book of his life.
When Cathy sang ‘Sweet Caroline’ most of the residents swung their hands side to side; they were into it; another couple nearby just held hands. The cake was cut, champagne passed around and it was time for Hattie and me. She was born in Jersey City on December 12, 1914. When she was 15 years old she worked for the American Can Company. “Do you remember it?” Of course I did. “I went to Saint Anthony’s grammar school for three years then public school. I left when I was in eighth grade because I had to go to work. You know, The Depression. For a woman it was easier to get a job.” I knew why; they paid women less. Hattie blurted out, “$7 a week.” But she worked for the American Can Company only during the summer months because she was under age. “They wanted my birth certificate so I never went back.” She laughed. “Then I got this job. I worked in one place for 34 years.” I thought about Tom Brokaw and the greatest generation and wondered if people today regularly work in the same places for 34 years; Hattie was tough stuff I kept thinking. Maybe it was a contributing factor to living to 100. I decided not to ask her the typical question. She worked all those years for Mongolia Importing Company testing casings for hot dogs and kielbasa. “I was in water all day long; rubber boots and apron. I used to gauge the casings. When my mother was sick I took a few weeks off. My job was always there.”
“How’d you meet your husband?” “I was going to a dance with two of my lady friends in Bayonne at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish. Leo was on the bus. He had a gold tooth. I’ll never forget it. At the dance he comes over and starts talking and going back home he sat with me on the bus. After that, we kept company (I remember my mother always used that expression) for 18 months then we got married. We stayed married for 60 years. I had a daughter, Dorothy who passed away a few years ago.” All of a sudden Hattie interjects, “Make sure you write good stuff, nothing bad about me.” “Is there bad stuff?” “I hope not,” she was quick to respond. I asked about music. She likes the radio, Bing Crosby and TV; she especially likes ‘Kelly and Michael,’ whom she is going to see in person in January. They have a special program at Arbor Terrace corporate where they seek to fulfill bucket list for their residents. Hattie’s is going to meet Kelly Ripa and Michael Strahan. I knew I forgot to introduce myself when we started. “I’m Calvin by the way.” “I remember Calvin Coolidge,” she stated randomly almost. “Do you remember him as President? Did you like him?”
“What was it like during the depression?” Hattie shook her head. “People used to sell apples. It was real bad. I had a job which was good. I bought shoes for myself for 99 cents. Would you believe it? Do you know how you used to pay? They put the money in a box and sent it up. They were never robbed. Then they sent the change back down. Then I bought laces for five cents.” “During World War II, what did you do?” “I used to work on Flit cans (Flit was an insecticide launched in 1923). Do you remember it?” “Yes I do!” “I used to solder them. I made a mistake once and soldered them together. I was tired. They moved me to five gallon cans.” Hattie’s friends kept coming over to congratulate her. She asked if the party was over. I guess it was time for me too. How engaging and delightful my time with Hattie was. I did savor every moment. There’s a message and lesson; to do this regularly and absorb, interact and cherish. I asked Hattie if I could come to her 101st birthday party. We shook hands on it. She had a firm grip. She left a firm grip on my soul. FOR MORE INFORMATION On ARBOR TERRCE OF MIDDLETOWN Phone 732-957-0083 www. at-middletown.com
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HOLIDAY COMING ATTRACTIONS: Jo Bonanno and Godsons with God Daughters of Soul Wonder Bar Asbury Park December 20th(0) HOLIDAY COMING ATTRACTIONS: Jo Bonanno and Godsons with God Daughters of Soul Wonder Bar Asbury Park December 20th By Calvin Schwartz
It is the holidays and our central Jersey stage is replete with festivities, parties and energies of charitable pursuits.It’s especially meaningful when you can find perfect evenings that embrace special musical talent and Toys for Tots. Put that all together at the Wonder Bar and its a fun, festive night. Calvin In addition to Jo Bonanno and the Godsons, you’ve also got The God Daughters of Soul ( Cathy Midgley / Sheri Gilmore / Lori Gilmore ) & Special appearances by Eddie Testa, Pat The Soul Cat, and a few more to be announced
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The Making of a Contemporary Christmas Classic Song: “Your Love is All I Want for Christmas” by Jo Bonanno and the Godsons of Soul By Calvin Schwartz December 2, 2014(0) The Making of a Contemporary Christmas Classic Song: “”Your Love is All I Want for Christmas” by Jo Bonanno and the Godsons of Soul By Calvin Schwartz December 2, 2014
I’ve been ‘into’ Christmas and holiday music for a long time. Somehow when I listen, it magic carpets me back to my youth, growing up in Newark, going to Bamberger’s with my mom for holiday shopping and being caught up in the frenetic holiday spirit. It always snowed up to my knees in December and there was an endless line to see Santa. Even when I was small and a few years old, my mother told me the Santa line was too long even though the US population was only 157 million. Bing Crosby sang ‘White Christmas’ and Gene Autry, a cowboy favorite of mine, did ‘Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer.’ For me it is a precious time of year with its wondrous music, meaning and imagery. Over the years, I’ve ordered Time Life Treasury of Christmas Music and listen over the four weeks starting the Friday after Thanksgiving. There’s nothing quite as moving as Pavarotti singing ‘Adeste Fideles.’ Now in the digital age, we have Sirius radio channel 17 called Holly playing holiday music 24/7 and same thing for 106.7. My auditory senses are replete in the car and at home. But I’ve also been on a bit of a personal quest these last few years to find contemporary holiday music to latch onto and treasure, often asking myself why is it always music from the 1800’s or 1900’s that is classic. So when I hear a contemporary holiday song that moves and emotes me, I add it to my Holiday listening.
When I heard ‘Jo Bonanno and the Godsons of Soul’ sing “Your Love is All I want for Christmas,” it was instant like and attraction and now I listen often (the CD). I say to myself, the song is “our time,” reflecting energies and lyrics we can identify with in 2014. I asked Jo Bonanno if we could talk about the origin of the song especially since both Jo and I come from Newark; a building block of commonality. So we talked with a bowl of peanut M &M’s and a huge untouched apple pie separating us. For years people asked Jo why he doesn’t release a Christmas song. He never had time to do it. “So I sat down last October. I said we’re going to do a Christmas song. They thought I was crazy to do a Christmas song. You can’t do this in such a short time.” Jo insisted they can do it. “So I sat down and started thinking of all the angles, different feels. I always liked the Phil Spector sound; the bells, orchestration and the arrangements. These songs always made me feel warm inside.” Jo thought about a concept and what everybody wants. ,”When I look at myself, I feel like I’m very blessed. Basically I’ve had everything I wanted and I can’t think of myself. I have to think outside the box. What does everybody in this world really like? Everybody wants and needs love. Then I picked up a guitar and strummed a bunch of chords; just back and forth and it came to me little by little. Your love is all I want for Christmas.”
He talked about his having all the essentials needed but something everyone could use is love. “The world needs love. So I got the guys together; the whole band and sat down with Dennis, the musical director. We went over the song and got the guys in the studio and told them to listen. Rob Libret was the engineer who co-produced. I said we needed some women vocals.” Jo knows a lot of women voices. “I said Jody Joseph (Bon Jovi) who backs up. Being its Christmas and family, I had my son Jared back-up and realized my daughter Ava Grace could also do it.” Last year they performed the song at Count Basie Theater at the Darlene Love show with Gary US Bonds’ band. They got air play on CBS FM and 90.5 and internet radio; to me all the basic ingredients of that trip down the yellow brick road of becoming a classic Christmas song. I like to think I was there at the beginning of a classic. It’s a great song for the holidays. I’ve listened countless times already. I’m down for its soulful molecular (energy) journey. Happy Holidays. Calvin Schwartz
CD Baby: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/jobonannothegodsonsofsou I Tunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/your-love-is-all-i-want-for/id744488680
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