Garden State

Eagle Rock Reservation

2012-01-22T14:10:00.000-08:00

Another place I visited was the Eagle Rock Reservation which is over 400 acres of wooded land in West Orange on the top of the Watchung’s First Mountain. The reservation got its name because bald eagles used to nest in the rocky cliffs on the edge of the mountain. The reservation is undeveloped and contains picnic areas, horseback riding paths and hiking trails. The Highlawn Pavillon is a restaurant located on the top of the mountain and has a perfect view of the New York City skyline. The reservation contains the Lenape Trial which is a 33 mile trail that extends through Essex County .

At Lookout Point, visitors can view the New York City Skyline which is where I found a memorial for September 11, 2001 called “Remembrance and Rebirth”. This memorial encompasses several sculptures and other items that represent a remembrance of the events of 9/11. This location was chosen for the memorial because it is a perfect view of the place where the twin towers once stood. Eagle Rock Reservation is a great place to go to have a picnic, to go hiking, or to view the New York Skyline.

Rutt's Hut

2012-01-22T13:54:00.000-08:00

I visited Rutt’s Hut, in Clifton, which is an eatery that is known for its deep fried hot dogs. Rutt’s Hut has been a local favorite for many years. I have been to Rutt’s Hut on many occasions as my parents, who both grew up in Clifton, went there growing up. My parents say that it hasn’t changed since they were young. Every time I go to Rutt’s Hut, there is always a diverse group of customers. On any day, you can find people in construction attire, others in business suits, senior citizens, or young parents with kids.

When you place an order at the counter, the order taker yells out your order to the cook. For instance, he or she will yell, “I need one ripper and one frenchie.” Ripper means a hot dog and frenchie means an order of french fries. The staff at Rutt’s Hut has their own lingo. The hot dogs are called ‘rippers’ because of the way in which they are cooked. Because the hot dogs are deep fried, the skins crack open while they are cooked and thus they are called rippers since the skin rips open. This method of cooking not only makes the hot dogs unique, they are delicious. One customer told me that he always goes to Rutt’s Hut any time he is nearby.

Taking a trip to Rutt’s Hut is an experience and a taste of Northern New Jersey culture. It may look like a rundown place from the outside, but Rutt’s Hut is a great place to eat with lots of character and friendly people.

JENKINSONS

2012-01-19T15:43:00.000-08:00

With all the blabber about the hit T.V. show Jersey Shore, I thought it would only be fitting for me to do a post about Jenkinsons boardwalk. Although it is not the Seaside boardwalk it is a close second.

The first time I visited was in 7th grade for my friends bat-mitzvah. I remember the party itself was a blast but I do not remember the surrounding people or atmosphere to be the type that I would associate myself with. I have been back since then and have gathered some more evidence to further prove to myself that this is a place I defiantly do not want to associate myself with. Bay head on the other hand (pat clark) is a bit more respectable. When I visited Jenkinson's website the cover page read as follows: "Jenkinson's Boardwalk offers your family a wide range of activities. Whether you are visiting for the day or the entire summer, you will always find something to excite every member of your family. From free weekly events to yearly festivals, there is always something extraordinary to experience here at Jenkinson's." This to me is misleading. They make it sound fun; so much so, that it makes one feel like they can spend a whole summer there. I do not know about you guys but I couldn't spend more than three hours at an arcade there. The people just don't appeal to me. On my old phone which has since been broken, I have a few pictures of some freaky people walking down the boardwalk: 10 year olds smoking cigarettes, 60 year olds getting their daily work out on dance dance revolution (they even had a DDR tattoo patrick was my witness), and men wearing a blow up monkey they just won through their ear (he had huge holes in his ear which he put the monkey's tail through). Not only is Jenkinson's filled with these kinds of people, lets be honest on Friday and Saturday nights in the summer you better watch out! If your not careful you may get punched in the face by a passing guido whose fist pumping down the boardwalk.

I know I do not want my children spending an entire summer on Jenkinson's boardwalk hanging around the stereotypes of NJ.

"5 Points"

2012-01-18T16:26:00.000-08:00

Recently, one Friday evening I made the trek with a few friends down Morris avenue to visit the one and only "5 points" as it is nicknamed because of the intersection it is at. The cheese steaks here are incredible, arguable better than ones in Philly, personally I prefer theses cheese steaks over Pats or Ginos any day. Not only is the food tremendous, but the atmosphere is pretty cool because it is picnic style seating and sets up for an extremely casual dining experience which I prefer. The guys working behind the counter are classic blue collar hard working guys wearing timberland boots, old jeans, and "noodies" with the restaurant logo on it. This is a sign that it is a great food joint because clearly it is family run or was family run at some point in time. The fact that New Jersey has what I think better "philly cheese steaks" than Philly says a lot. This is not just the first, but the second cheese steak place in Jersey that I vote better than Philly. A place down the shore called Nemo's in Avalon is home to an unreal cheese steak. I think this shows how good New Jersey is and how much we care about our food. I think it also goes to show that we might be a superior state to Pennsylvania if we can out do them in their home state specialty.

IS THAT NEW JERSEY?

2012-01-18T14:53:00.000-08:00

Over the summer I got to go to, in my opinion, one of the coolest places in New Jersey. It is a links style golf course located in the heart of Bayonne NJ called Bayonne Golf Club. Many people do not know about this magnificent golf course because before it opened in 2006, it was best known for being a landfill. This hosted old cars by day and late night teenage parties by night. But, like any harbor the Manhattan harbor is one that needs to be dredged. In past years the silt would be removed and dumped 3 miles out to sea but this was deemed harmful to ocean fishing. With on going channel dredging, authorities needed to indentify land sites to get rid of the river silt. It was late 90's when the Bayonne site was selected as a location to dump the silt. Also, if I remember correctly, I believe the city of New York paid the site to take the material off of their hands. During this period, the site of the current Bayonne Golf Club became the home for millions of cubic yards of Hudson silt. This material would arrive at the site's pier on a barge where it was mixed at a cement station with a ten percent mixture of cement. As the course was being built the architects forgot about how people were going to access the club and as a result, members must pass through a shipping yard containing huge ships, fork lifts, and 18 wheelers. It is amazing that one of the best links courses in the world lies in the shadows of Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and the Verrazano bridge. Most of all, it lies in our home state.

Bay Head

2012-01-18T13:07:00.000-08:00

What do you think of when you hear the term "Jersey Shore"? The images that most likely pop into your head are guidos, night clubs, polluted beaches, and obnoxious people. Others think of boardwalks, beaches, restaurants, and summer homes. Personally, I think of the shore as a place of tradition and quality family time. During the summer I go to Bay Head, where my family has a home. Our house is only a block from the beach and is usually packed with all my aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and grandparents. Bay Head is a small town located between Point Pleasant and Mantaloking and is very different from any other town. Bay Head boasts a few private beaches and some amazing beach front homes. A main attraction of Bay Head is the yacht club. Bay Head is a true sailing town. Everyone who summers here knows each other because they've all been going here forever; it's a family tradition. We all have the same daily routines of jogging on East Ave, reading on the porch, watching the sailboats go by, barbecuing, and riding bikes around at night. Each summer we sit with the same group of people on the beach, in the same location each year. We know all the badge checker's and lifeguard's names, because they're here each summer too. To me, Bay Head is a very special place and a true Jersey shore town.

Garden State Diner

2012-01-17T12:26:00.000-08:00

I recently was in Newark Airport and came across this restaurant called the Garden State Diner. I was immediately drawn in to this diner by its classic diner decor and its appealing menu. There are obviously many diners all over New Jersey, but few that represent a real old fashioned diner. This diner might haveseemed a little cheesy, but it did a good job representing the quintessential American diner. Manythings that we discussed in our class could be found in this icon of American culture. There was a bar that stretched along one side of the diner with a bunch of round stools on it, and some booths along the far wall. Also, the flashy and somewhat psychedelic wallpaper along with the accents of red really channelled an old fashioned diner. On the menu were many foods associated with New Jersey including disco fries, blueberry pancakes, and any flavor milkshake imaginable. This diner seemed somewhat out of place in the crowded Newark Airport but was a great homage to New Jersey culture.

Edison Laboratory

2012-01-16T17:32:00.000-08:00

West Orange, only a town over, is the home of one of America’s national parks. Modern day began at the turn of the twentieth century at the Laboratory of Thomas Edison. The laboratory stands at the corner of Main Street and Lakeside Avenue in West Orange. Within these brink buildings, that many people pass on a daily basis without any consideration was the birthplace pf what some believe to be some of the greatest scientific discoveries. These buildings, built in 1997, held the chemistry, physics, and metallurgy laboratories as well as the machine shop, pattern shop, and research library; and rooms for experiments for Edison. Within this complex Edison developed his ideas for alkaline storage batteries, recorded music, and motion pictures. Once he perfected, these prototypes, they were sent to a factory complex that Edison began building in 1888, adjacent to the laboratory. In the factory, the products were manufactured into commercial quantities and sold to the world. The products created within these walls during the late 19th and early 20th centuries dramatically changed the way Americans lived and worked. Business and technology came together at this complex and provided a model for modern corporate and governmental research and development laboratories. New Jersey has an enriched history that helped bring the world into modern day. Without Edison’s discoveries life today would not be the same. New Jersey has been the home for innovation since before the turn of the 20^th century. Additionally, national parks like this one continue to teach a new generation of New Jersey residents what great things New Jersey has to offer.

Soul Kitchen

2012-01-16T17:29:00.000-08:00

Community has been an significant element of shore towns since there origins. The Soul Kitchen is a Community Restaurant located in Red Bank, which is a non-profit program established and operated by the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation. The vision of Bon Jovi was to create the Soul Kitchen which would make healthy, delicious, and when possible, organic meals realistic and plausible to the community. The Soul Kitchen’s menus have no prices and you also might be seated with someone you don’t know; its purpose is to promote community. You select what you like and can make the minimum donation if that is all you can afford. If you can afford to donate more you are helping to feed your neighbor. If you are unable to donate, an hour of volunteering pays for your meal. This Community Restaurant creates an atmosphere where individuals and families can come together to eat a hot, nutritious meal within a welcoming setting and meet their neighbors. The volunteer opportunities at the restaurant are either those that need to volunteer to provide a meal or those that volunteer to help staff the kitchen to help in giving meals to those in need. For those that need to volunteer in order to provide a meal for themselves or their families, JBJ Soul Kitchen will always have a place for them. The Soul Kitchen is truly a revolutionary and charitable concept that prides itself on really meeting the consumer’s needs. There are only a handful of places where you can actually work for a meal if you cannot pay for it. Additionally, you are getting good nutritious food in the process. New Jersey has always been on the forefront of change in America and has walked to beat of its own drum; but hopefully other places will follow in The Soul Kitchens foot steps.

The Stone Pony

2012-01-16T17:25:00.000-08:00

The Stone Pony opened on February 8, 1974 in Asbury Park and has become one of the world’s best-known music venues. It is an integral and irreplaceable part of Asbury Park’s history. One of the original bands to play at this club was The Blackberry Booze Band, which featured Ocean Grove resident "Southside" Johnny Lyon and Middletown's Steve Van Zandt. The band was renamed Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, and played three nights a week at the club. Popular bands performed at the Pony during the '70s and still do to this day. Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band are only some of the greats whose careers were sky rocketed after performing at the Pony. As Asbury Park has evolved so has the legendary Stone Pony; it is still a prominent component of New Jerseys music scene. Former vice president of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Robert Santelli, stated, "the club has already earned its place in history as one of rock 'n' roll's great venues. Most rock critics and historians that I come in contact with on a regular basis feel that The Stone Pony is one of greatest rock clubs of all time.” Snoop Dog, The Black Crowes, The Pretenders, Peter Frampton and Snoop Dogg were among the recent performers who graced the Pony’s stage. The Stone Pony has been a vital component in many Jersey Shore residents’ lives for decades. My mother grew up in Lakewood and spent many weekends at the Pony watching Bruce Springsteen as well as many other performances. Since I was little I have heard my mom talk extensively about her tome spent at The Stone Pony and how much she loved going there. The Stone Pony is a vital part of New Jersey’s musical history as well as present. In this upcoming May I believe I will also be attending a concert at this historical musical venue; The Bamboozle Festival we be held in Asbury Park this year and some of the bands, including Bon Jovi will be performing here. I hope I will be able to witness a part of the extensive history that has been made here.

Passaic Falls

2012-01-16T10:11:00.000-08:00

I took a trip to Clifton with my dad. We stopped in Paterson to see the Passaic Falls or sometimes called the Great Falls. My dad grew up near Paterson and told me a lot of history of the Passaic Falls.

The Great Falls of the Passaic River is the second largest falls in the east coast of the United States. I was astonished to find this out, since I never even knew that the Falls existed before my dad told me about it. It is also the birth place of the industrial revolution in the United States. The Passaic Falls is sometimes called the “Cradle of American Industry”. Alexander Hamilton observed the Falls and realized that the Falls could be used as a source of energy. This was the start of urban planning which allowed industries to run more efficiently by using the water fall. Hamilton believed that all cities should be planned like Paterson and felt that if America was based on Paterson, America would become a world power. I was surprised to learn that this water fall was at the center of the start of a new era in our country and it is only about 30 minutes from where I live.

Not only does the Falls have so much history, it is also very beautiful and impressive. When I was little, the Passaic River bordered my day camp and we canoed on the river. It surprised me that this calm river turns into this giant water fall. I also found it fascinating that this amazing natural landmark was in the middle of an urban community. However, it makes sense that this urban city was built on and thrived on the energy created by the Falls. The Paterson Falls is an incredible natural landmark of New Jersey.

Morris County Republican Headquarters

2012-01-16T08:28:00.000-08:00

Last week, I started volunteering at Congressman Frelinghuysen's reelection campaign in Morristown. I didn't take any pictures because that would have been weird for the other people working there and I didn't want a reputation as "the kid who takes pictures." Anyway, the place is very interesting: it is a small office next to a barber shop on one side, and an office building with the Congressman's district office on the other. Just down the street is the Morris County Democratic Headquarters and they look very similar as low-key office buildings amidst other stores. I got the impression that neither political office wanted to draw too much attention towards themselves, as politicians in New Jersey do not have that great of a reputation. However, the existence of the offices were reminders that there were politicians working for them, and open for opinions if need be. The inside of the office is very simple, containing one big table situated by the front for conferences, and one room in the back. The walls are filled with campaign posters, pictures of past presidents, and historical republican slogans. Thankfully, knowing NJ's history of political corruption, there was a feeling of transparency, as the table situated close to the front of the room signifies that conferences aren't held behind closed doors.

The black and white picture included was from the Congressman's website, and the other one I took from his office in Washington DC.

That Old Pumpin' Station at Campbell's Pond

2012-01-15T12:13:00.000-08:00

Every year I go walking in the South mountain reservation and, each year, I manage to visit my favorite spot in the reservation: the pumping station at Campbell's Pond. The abandoned building is right off Brookside Drive and is easily accessible from the road. This was the first time that I had visited the station during the winter and the visibility of the building was astonishing! My journey to the pumping station began when I crossed the century-old wooden, iron, and brick bridge (see first picture) that guarded the path to the station. Despite appearances, the bridge can be a little nerving to cross; a single footstep can cause the rusted, iron plating to wobble and creak beneath new-found weight. Once I reached the end of the bridge I could see the pumping station only a few hundred feet down the path. When I approached the station I noticed something new, a metal fence (probably erected last year). Most of the fence had already been dismantled by hoodlums with wire cutters so my journey through the station remained unhindered. Immediately after entering the station through a concrete filled doorway that had been broken down by hoodlums with a sledge hammer my eyes were bombarded with hundreds of graffiti tags (hoodlums with a spray can). All three rooms of the station and much of the exterior of the station had been completely covered in spray paint. I noticed that most of the machinery of the pumping station still remained throughout the building - many of the pipes were intact, along with their valves. The chimney and the door to the chimney also remained, and even the outside intake valves that carried water from the pond to the station were still intact. One thing, however, stood out through my whole journey: the beauty of the abandoned pumping station.
New Jerseyans have always had an interesting perspective on art. As a class we have studies two forms already, poetry and music. Our poetry chapter was filled with all sorts of depressing or weird poems that beautified industry, trash, and pollution. Springsteen's song are very similar in that nature; he tries to elaborate or sometimes even 'glorify' sex, drugs, and violence. The graffiti and trash that covers the walls and floors of the abandoned pumping station are a perfect example of a third form of New Jersey art: photography. New Jersey photography is the beautification of things that have negative attributes to them (trash, pollution, garbage). My brother has been using graffiti as a main subject in his photography (typical New Jerseyan) and, luckily, he has done a gigapan of the pumping station's northernmost room (click 'gigapan'). I highly encourage the casual reader to journey and explore the beautiful confines of the abandoned South Mountain pumping station.

Prudential Center

2012-01-12T15:24:00.000-08:00

This Tuesday, I made a trip to Newark for the Seton Hall vs. DePaul basketball game. I have been going to Seton Hall games for my whole life, from when they used to play at the Meadowlands in East Rutherford. I'm not too sure why I am a Pirates fan; maybe it's because they are from my home state of New Jersey; or because I've been attending their games for as long as I can remember. When I was told I was going to this game, I didn't think twice about it, "of course I'll go". As I was traveling through Newark towards Mulberry Street I noticed many vacant buildings and homeless people, which is pretty normal for Newark. But as we got closer to Broad street and the Prudential Center I noticed the city aspect of Newark. There was more liveliness to this area. Thinking back to before the Prudential Center opened it's doors in 2007, Newark was hurting and needed something to attract tourists. With the help of Mayor Cory Booker, the "Pru Center" helped Newark to get back on track to becoming a thriving city. Newark is now home to two professional sports teams, the Nets and the Devils. They also host Seton Hall basketball games, which are major D1 sports events. The Pru Center also hosts many major concerts throughout the year. One thing I've always thought that was cool about the Prudential Center is that the main concourse is lined with high school hockey jerseys from New Jersey. Overall I think the Prudential Center is great for Newark and is really helping the city get back on it's feet.

Princeton

2012-01-08T15:23:00.000-08:00

I recently made the trip down the parkway to route 1 to drop my brother off at school, and once upon arrival on campus it was a nice day so we walked around campus for a bit. Once walking around campus and really looking at all the buildings it's a cool place. The buildings and quad look like a scene right out of Harry Potter. I don't know how many people have visited the campus, but I think it is something that is worthwhile doing. Although Princeton is a well-known university, I do not know how many people actually go and visit to just look at the architecture and layout of the campus. I feel if kids are not looking to go to school there, there is no point to visit. I have been several times and have a brother who goes there, and I would certainly not want to go to school there, but that has not stopped me from visiting and spending weekends with him there. I think as New Jerseyians it is important for us to know the history of this university and we should be proud of the fact that we are home to one of the most famous and highly regarded colleges in the country and world. Once again our state is defined by certain locations and landmarks and I think Princeton is definitely a place in which people associate New Jersey with which is a positive. We are always coming up with ways to why New Jersey is so miserable, but I think this university offers an appeal to come to the Garden State.

Jersey Shore

2012-01-08T13:29:00.000-08:00

As we have been learning, the Jersey shore is not only an attraction to the residents of the Garden State, but also an attraction to tourists. Having the shore so close to us, enables families and friends to spend quality time together during the summer weeks.
Since I can remember, I have spent a few of my summer weeks every year down at the the shore, whether it was at my grandparents beach club in Seabright, my family friends house in L.B.I., or my friends house in Margate. I find all of these places to be a relaxing get away from the school year and I look forward every summer to spending a few weeks down at the shore. Whether its walking the boardwalk, tanning on the beach, or just eating an ice cream cone, I always find myself content when I'm at the shore.

Although the Jersey Shore is not necessarily an escape from New Jersey, it allows people to get away from their residential home towns and spend a few relaxing hours in the sand, where they can forget about all the hustle and bustle they have to deal with on a daily basis. All in all, the Jersey Shore is definitely an icon for New Jersey and it is a place where family and friends can relax and enjoy their summer days.

Rutgers Swimming

2012-01-07T12:33:00.000-08:00

This morning, I had a huge swim meet at Rutgers University for my club team in Summit. Still tired from a meet last night at Montclair State, I woke up at 5:30 and started the dark drive south to Rutgers's New Brunswick campus. I'd been to this pool several times in the past few years, along with several other college pools, but it is always a sight that never ceases to impress me. The pool itself is enormous. 50 yards long (Olympic size), separated by a bulkhead into two, 25 yard, 8 lane pools. There are three really tall diving blocks (that we can't see in the photo) that stand tall at one end of the pool. Each pool has its own scoreboard, and a record board stands at one end. If that wasn't enough, there are two more 4-lane warm up pools behind a small glass wall (around top-left of the photo). Teams spent weeks preparing for this event, and close races and nervous, tired kids made for a crazy morning. Many of our swimmers who had swum the night before for Millburn were present and operating on six hours of sleep or less, and leftover exhaustion from last night's races. I spent about 4 hours there, getting out in time for breakfast, but I really think this goes to prove the support that the state gives its athletic programs. I know both Princeton and GCIT have similarly impressive pool complexes like this one, and even high school and club swimming is well funded.

Because Alyse can't post... here's her work!

2012-01-06T06:07:00.003-08:00

Over winter break, I went with my family to Mexico. Every year over December break, we travel to somewhere warm, except for last year; our hotel and flights were booked and we were ready to head out of the country when my dad suddenly ended up in the hospital due to blood clots throughout his body including a pulmonary embolism. So clearly, going on the trip was out of the question. Fortunately, I was able to venture to Florida with my friend, Paige, in February. Although it was nice to leave New Jersey for a while and see sunlight, staying with her grandparents was completely different than vacationing with my family. Our families are extremely different, and it made me appreciate all of the vacations I have taken with my family. So when this December rolled around, I could not wait to hop on a plane and land in a different country with different people, different scenery, different weather, and a different culture. However, I was glad to have my family there with me. Although we left New Jersey for a week, we definitely brought our New Jersey values of family with us. It is nice to get away for a week each year and experience other parts of the world and even the country, but eventually, we always end up back in New Jersey.

Newark Airport

2012-01-05T17:59:00.000-08:00

Newark Airport provides a miserable experience for most travelers. It sure did for me when I got myself to the gate at 5 am only to find out that the plane had technical difficulties and would be delayed 4 hours. This is not the point of the blog. The point of the blog is that New Jersey is home to one of the larger airports in the country and operates as a small city on a daily basis. Tons of people fly in and out of the airport every hour. Every state has a large airport, sometimes even 2 or 3 like Texas, but everything is bigger in Texas. However, there is something about Newark Airport that make people let out a groan every time they have to travel out of there. The long delays, the long waits to take off, long lines at security are just a few hassles that people encounter at Newark. People often define the state by the airport and the constant traffic in and around that area; it goes along with the theme of New Jersey. The congestion of traffic throughout the state of New Jersey is always a major problem and the airport is one contributor to the problem. The airport is also a positive thing especially for our town, without traffic it is a 15 minute drive, making it convenient to get to the airport. The airport further supports the idea of movement and transportation in the state of New Jersey. Although this might not be the biggest highlight of the garden state and can sometimes be a pain, it is certainly an icon which is associated with this state.

Liberty Science Center

2012-01-01T20:08:00.000-08:00

I spent this weekend going to the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City. No matter what elementary school you went to, everyone has gone on a school field trip to the science center at least once in their life. This time I decided to check out the science center, a decade after my first visit in 2nd grade, from the perspective of an adult. The only two things that I could vividly remember from that time were the touch tunnel and the imax dome. I had heard that the touch tunnel was removed in some renovation work around 2007, but to my luck the museum had decided to put the tunnel back in (no doubt a result of rallied masses) ten months ago. After a thirty minute drive with my sister and the purchase of a fifteen dollar admission ticket I was standing in front of the touch tunnel, disappointed. It turns out that the Liberty Science Center is really made to cater to only one audience: children (I am not sure if this was always the case, it could have been a result of the renovations). The touch tunnel turned out to be no larger than the size of my bedroom, with only a five-foot diameter hole for an entrance. Not even my twin was willing to suck up her pride and dare a venture into the darkness. Alas, to our surprise there were a few uplifting exhibitions: getting sneezed on by an over-sized model of the human face to demonstrate germs or learning how to spell out my name in braille. The imax dome, despite the price, also brought some entertainment; my sister and I had decided to see a 'movie' about flying dinosaurs which proved to be interesting, especially with the surround sound. But for the most part, the experience was awkwardly disappointing.
As I child, I found myself enjoying new experiences and, unknowingly, elevating the actuality of those experiences. In this case, the Liberty Science Center, a New Jersey experience that seemed great as a child, is actually quite boring as an adult.

New Jersey Transportation

2011-12-18T14:58:00.000-08:00

Passing by the Short Hills and the Millburn train stations on a daily basis, it is evidently clear that the local transportation plays a large factor in helping to define New Jersey. Between the hundred and plus train stations located throughout the state, along with bus stops and the Newark Liberty National Airport, one can assume that one reason New Jersey is so popular is because of its easy and fast ways of commuting from one place to another.

It is great having all of these ways of transportation nearby because it allows parents to commute back and forth to work, whether its to the NYC, Philadelphia, or just a few towns over, and it allows families to take day trips or weekend excursions to other places as well. Living in New Jersey has enabled me to not only experience the everyday lifestyle of Millburn, but it has allowed me to explore other regions, such as NYC, which I visit frequently. Since many people often times have the desire to escape New Jersey, I think it is great how there are so many different means of transportation throughout the state because it allows people to see what it is like beyond the Garden State.

All in all, all the local forms of transportation not only located in our town, but throughout the rest of the state as well, is certainly a great advantage because despite having a home in New Jersey, Jersey residents have the ability to travel to wherever they desire.

New Jersey Landscapes

2011-12-12T18:10:00.000-08:00

This weekend I was able to experience the rural portion of New Jersey. Farms, cows, horses, pigs, big red barns, and homemade pie and jam.
As we discussed in class New Jersey is well known for its diverse landscapes. You can be in suburban Short Hills and drive 20 minutes down the road to reach a rural landscape. The concept of various landscapes makes New Jersey culture so unique and exciting. The fact that we can experience different types of environments all within just a small radius is amazing. In addition New Jersey also contains many urban environments. Newark is a perfect example of a New Jersey urban setting. Other states are typically confined to one type of setting. Whether it be suburban, rural, or urban, other states don't contain the diversified landscapes that New Jersey has to offer. Overall, whether from New Jersey or not, one can say New Jersey is definitely distinguished for it's various landscapes.

The Marrow of Life

2011-12-11T14:42:00.000-08:00

This morning my friends and I decided, after fourteen years of friendship, to try walking beyond the fence of their backyard. They’d been told by neighbors about a pond that formed after storms, so I threw on my Walden shirt (doesn't get much cooler than that) and swung my brother's camera around my neck. A few minutes later, we discovered a long, pebbled brook flowing under massive, fallen trees whichcrossed it every few yards. It was silent besides the hum of the water, suddenly hard to imagine that we were smack in the middle of town. We climbed onto one of the giant logs and sat there, mesmerized, for like a half hour.

The adventure made me consider my own view of Millburn. I’m normally the first to label it “Stepford On Crack”. It's a 9.9 square mile hotbed of hauteur, a place where humility is unheard of; simplicity derided. We’re like "Little Boxes" meets Château de Versailles. At thirteen, I was a bracey, self-proclaimed transcendentalist (someone decided to get me a paperback copy of "Walden" for Chanukah), and decided that the overindulgence of our hometown was truly unacceptable. I created a PowerPoint presentation for my parents that aimed to convince them to relocate the family to a more modest, natural location. It was to no avail.

But this morning really changed my point of view. I know New Jersey doesn’t normally come to mind when one considers nature- we’re the most densely populated state and known for our gas-guzzling SUV’s and shopping malls- but it’s important not to let our preconceived notions get in the way of finding exceptions to the stereotypes of our town and of our state.

Livingston Town Center

2011-12-06T12:25:00.001-08:00

One of the first things that come to my mind when thinking of New Jersey is the plethora of strip malls and shopping malls located throughout the state. Having a passion for shopping, I would say I spend most of my days roaming around stores aimlessly for nothing but pure enjoyment.

This weekend, I spent some time at the Livingston Town Center, which I feel is a perfect example of a typical New Jersey shopping experience because it has both unique stores and restaurants that are usually found in larger malls, such as Baumgart’s, while also having a strip mall atmosphere as well.

As we previously have discussed in class, New Jersey is often times associated with blue-collar jobs, loud obnoxious people, and being “in your face.” Not only do the residents of New Jersey represent all of these qualities but I feel that the Livingston Town Center, along with other malls throughout the region demonstrate these qualities as well.

After my time at the town center, it was clear that the majority of people out shopping were those of the working class who had leisure time to spend on a Sunday afternoon. Additionally, I found many of the customers to be rather loud and obnoxious whether it was between them screaming into their cell phones or showing off their newest materialistic item. And of course the ads on the sidewalk were nothing but “in my face.” Each advertisement was not only oversized, but bright and bold to make sure that no one would be able to miss it, and after walking around the town center, I bet I could tell you every sale each store was having.

I think the main lesson I walked away with that day was although we might not be as obnoxious as the cast of the Jersey Shore, the residents of our town and neighboring towns are just as loud and obnoxious, but in their “shopaholic” ways.

Washington Rock

2011-11-30T17:19:00.000-08:00

Over Thanksgiving break I went to Washington Rock with my three brothers. Although I would not necessarily describe this excursion as an artifact, it definitely ties into New Jersey culture. In History class we learn about the multiple wars that were fought on US soil. However, the close proximity of these battlefields and camp sights often goes unnoticed. Upon arriving at Washington Rock, located in the South Mountain Reservation, I figured my brothers would want to catch up on things, that we would all just catch up on everything that had been going on. However, it turned into a history lesson. I learned for one that it was at this very spot on June 23, 1780 that the Essex County and Newark Militia were first warned that the British were coming. Hobart Gap, referred to as "The Gap" was where the British planned on launching their attack. I find it to be astonishing that despite being so familiar with this road, I knew nothing of the British launching an attack here. I also find it amazing that over two hundred years ago, Washington Rock was a lookout for the militia. A place in which the militia made sure no danger was coming their way so they could protect their people. Yet now so many people walk around freely. Allowing New Jersey residents to come together as a community. There is so much history within our state and we often pay very little attention to this history. We often underestimate how significant small landmarks are within our state, even those within our own towns, and how these stories bring us together as a community. We underestimate the role that these historical events, that took place on our town's soil, play in forming our New Jersey culture. Whether it be our values or traditions, history plays a vital role in shaping our unique Jersey culture.

Jets Game

2011-11-27T17:39:00.000-08:00

Today, I went to the Jets game. It might not sound like much of an artifact, but as my experience progressed, it definitely felt like something that people could look at in a century to get a sense of how New Jerseyans spent their leisure time. While the actual football game is about three hours, a Jets game, or any professional football game, is an all-day affair. The parking lots open at 9, and by 9:30, they are already swarmed with people tailgating. Tailgating entails many different activities from firing up the grill, totossing around the pigskin, or even setting up a few TV's to watch the pregame show. Tailgating doesn't stop when the game starts, as some people even elect to stay in the parking lot, and watch, or listen, to the game there(not accounting for those people who might not even have tickets to the game). I got the impression that people had been waiting all week for the game, as did I, but for different reasons. This was my first Jets game in a few years, first in the new stadium, and I was there for football more so than relaxation purposes. For most season ticket holders, coming to the game is a tradition repeated nearly every other week, where everyone takes a day to put away all preoccupations, sit back, and enjoy reminiscing with family and friends.

Inside the stadium, there

are even different experiences. Those who can indulge, do, by purchasing seats closer to

the field. Near the 50-yard-line on each side of the stadium, there is a section of mostly empty seats. Holders of these seats get access to a special all-you-can-eat buffet, which I took advantage of, knowing someone who could get me in. Most, if not all, of these seats in this section do not go unsold each game, as businesses hold some of them, reserved for special clients. Yet since the business calendar does not correspond with the football one, it's

difficult to find a client to take to every game. Most of the people who sit in this section spend the pre-game festivities inside the stadium, indulging on exclusive perks like the one that I experienced.

Further up the stadium, the prices of the seats decrease, but generally, I saw that the demographics of people changed very little. Yes, those sitting closer might have more money to spend on tickets than those sitting further away, but each section acts a little community, comprised of the people who you complain to or celebrate with, depending on how the game is going.

I've never really thought about football in this way, because for me, football is a three, maybe four hour diversion from homework on a Sunday, and a way to connect with your friends by playing fantasy football. For those who consistently go to games, which I would guess would be about 75% of the stadium, football is a day to celebrate another week of life, where even strangers act like they've known you as well as your friends or family.

Just a reminder...

2011-11-27T14:21:00.001-08:00

I hope you all had a nice holiday. This is to remind you that you are supposed to be posting your NJ adventures here!

Class Tomorrow

2011-10-24T15:49:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone!

We will be meeting in 219 tomorrow! This way, you will have access to the internet for any further research you would like to conduct.

Thanks!

Ms. Siegel

Welcome, Jerseyans

2011-10-01T06:49:00.000-07:00

This will be our class blog. Throughout the semester, I will ask you to share ideas on readings and class discussions here. It will also be a place where I will update assignments. You should be checking the blog at least once a day.