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INSIDE LANDIS & WOOD • COOKING VEGAN • CONLEY DRIVE HOME • RECIPE VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 4 | MARCH 4, 2009 CONNECTING YOU T O V I N E L A N D . W E E K L Y. Visit us online www.grapevinenewspaper.com { VINCE FARINACCIO } { STEPHANIE FARRELL / PHOTO: MIKE EPIFANIO } Mayor Robert Romano reads to Mrs. Bordo’s fourth grade class at Petway Elementary. The Chamber at 90 Years The Vineland business networking group has changed with the times. inety years ago, 200 Vineland residents gathered at the now defunct Stanisic’s Hall on a Wednesday evening in early June. Amidst the music, entertainment and general camaraderie, a meeting was conducted. By the end of the night, 55 attendees had signed on as charter members of the Vineland Chamber of Commerce. By the following month, N Read Across Vineland Area schools have a full lineup of activities this week to inspire students to read. Parents and community leaders get in on the act, too. Continued on page 8 Executive Director Paige Desiere at the Chamber office on Delsea Drive. T his week Vineland schools are celebrating Read Across America, a nationwide event commemorating Dr. Seuss’ birthday. Dr. Seuss, officially Theodor Seuss Geisel, wrote more than 40 children’s books, hooking kids with his unusual characters and funny rhyming tales. At Johnstone Elementary School, Christopher Leistner and Usamah Oden, both fifth graders from Danielle Smith’s class, were checking out biographies on Dr. Seuss. They explained that although Dr. Seuss uses wacky and silly words, he gets across messages for real-life situations. Media Specialist Sonja Levin refers to that technique as Seuss’ sideways approach to deliver a serious message. “On equality and justice, Yertle the Turtle, ‘I know up on top you are seeing great sights. But down here at the bottom, we too, should have rights.’ Bartholomew and the Oobleck: ‘But even Continued on page 9 It’s About 2.50% APY* Capital NOW Checking & Our “March Madness” 42” Flatscreen TV Drawing.             NEW BRANCH COMING SOON! Ask any employee, call 856.690.1234 or visit CapitalBankNJ.com for details. *Annual Percentage Yield (APY). Offer may be withdrawn at any time without previous notice. Interest rate may vary. Fees may reduce earnings. Rates guaranteed through June 30, 2009 No purchase or account opening required to enter drawing. Our Focus Is You. 175 S. Main Road, Vineland, NJ • 856.690.1234 Se Habla Español  CapitalBankNJ.com DIV. OF ZUKERMAN FOODS The Top Banana Wholesale Outlet Wheat Road & Delsea Drive, Vineland • 641-0815 HOURS: Mon. – Thurs. 9-6:30; Friday 9-8; Sat. 9-6; Sun. 11-5 Sale Expires 3/4/09-3/10/09 EGGS & MILK LOW PRICE ALWAYS! Ready to pick up. Easy shop by Phone or Fax 641-0813 Major Credit Cards Accepted CHILE FRESH CALIFORNIA FRESH-JUICY FRESH ICEBURG FRESH GREEN GRAPES RED OR GREEN CLEMENTINES LETTUCE .99¢ $3.99 3 LB. Bag .99¢ Each SCALLIONS 2/$1.00 TROPICAL LEHIGH FARMS MANGO .99¢ Each { 2 } the grapevine | MARCH 4, 2009 WASHINGTON STATE FRESH2%MILK WHOLE 1% • • WHITE POTATOES 10 Lb. $2.99 PLUMROSE PREMIUM 1 GALLON $3.49/Each DUTCH-LAN EXTRA LARGE GALA OR FUJI APPLES $1.19 Lb. STELLA BRAND AGED OR MELLOW EGGS DOZEN $1.29 CAMPBELL’S FAMILY SIZE BACON FULL 1 Lb. $2.49 Each CANADIAN ASIAGO per cut pc. $4.99 Lb. CHICKEN NOODLE 51 Oz. $3.49 Ea. YUKON GOLD POTATOES 5 LB. $2.99 Each SHOP SMART • SAVE SMART • EAT SMART { CONTENTS } 1 1 Read Across Vineland Dr. Seuss’ birthday inspires kids to read. ST E P H A N I E FA R R E L L I Editor’s Letter Snowed In Blame in on Punxsutawney Phil. The famous groundhog got a glimpse of his shadow last month and his handlers thus proclaimed that we’d have to endure six more weeks of winter. Winter officially ends on March 19. And we almost made it through winter without any major snowfall in 2008 or 2009. But that all changed on Sunday night when the snow started to come down steadily and heavily after dark. Most parts of Vineland were blanketed with a foot of snow or more by Monday morning. My staff and I have decided to embark upon a grand experiment—we officially closed the offices for the day on Monday and worked independently from our homes. Our print deadline is on Monday each week and we knew that this snow-day strategy may have had its pitfalls. But the key to its success would come down to effective communication. Just a few short years ago this would have never been possible. Technology has brought massive changes to the media business in the past few years. We all have laptops and high-speed internet access at home and work and we all have the publishing software that allows us to lay out the pages and send the files back and forth to each other; and then to our printer when the pages are complete. Throughout the day, we’ve been e-mailing each other and following up with phone calls to make sure nothing falls through the cracks. The experiment has proved that we can work remotely to get a weekly issue of The Grapevine compiled and printed as scheduled in emergency situations. But the experiment has also proven to me that it’s not a practice I’d want to engage in week in and week out. For me, there are far too many distractions at home—especially on a snow day when my wife and kids are home from school. And I enjoy the convenience and comaraderie that comes with working together in the office with my staff as we collectively face down the pressures of a print deadline. While it’s nice to work in my pajamas on the couch with the fireplace warming my feet, I actually prefer the office environment while “on the job.” I’m hoping this storm is winter’s big finale. I’m also hoping that I won’t have to face down another print deadline from home again for a long time. MIKE EPIFANIO Editor & Publisher BELATED THANK YOUS In last week’s issue, we thanked the numerous businesses who either sponsored our Hometown Heroes Gala or donated items for our silent auction. We regret having missed two of the businesses that were particularly generous. Dondero Diamonds & Fine Jewelry donated a $100 Gift Certificate and T&F Camera donated the proceeds from the portrait sales during our event. We also would like to credit Robert Cervini/ T&F Camera for the photo (above) that appeared on our front cover last week. The Chamber at 90 Years The Vineland Chamber of Commerce has been a part of the town’s rich history. V I N C E FA R I N AC C I O 4 6 Community Calendar Credit Earned The Main Street Program maintains its accreditation. TO D D N O O N 7 Science Rules Two science fairs spotlight young minds. DEBORAH A. EIN 10 Faces in the News 11 Recipe Corner An 84-year-old shares her pork chop recipe. L I SA D I N U N Z I O 12 DINING: Deliciously Vegan Christine Scalfo-Glover teaches how to cook for a vegan diet. ST E P H E N W I L S O N 16 17 Entertainment The Land Purchase Free Movie Rental @ Coupon Good for One Free* Overnight Movie Rental when you rent one at regular price. A behind-the-scenes look at how land was transferred from Richard Wood to Landis. V I N C E FA R I N AC C I O 18 REAL ESTATE: Engineered Style A Conley Drive house was crafted with attention to detail and special features. MARIE TEDESCO Choose from THOUSANDS of popular DVD and Blu-Ray Rentals. { STAFF } MIKE EPIFANIO Editor & Publisher DEBORAH A. EIN Managing Editor LORI GOUDIE Art Director GAIL EPIFANIO Controller JACK EPIFANIO Advertising Executive SHERRY MUNYAN Advertising Executive MELISSA FIORI-LACIVITA Advertising Executive TRACY BUSCHAM Graphic Designer MARIE TEDESCO Editorial Intern WWW.GRAPEVINENEWSPAPER.COM | *Free overnight movie rental when rented along with regular priced overnight movie rental. Regular additional day fees apply. One Free rental per coupon per customer per day. Expires 3/15/09 . LETTER TO THE EDITOR The Grapevine 3660 E. Landis Ave. Vineland, NJ 08361 PHONE: 856-457-7815 • FAX: 856-457-7816 EMAIL: letters@grapevinenewspaper.com WEB: www.grapevinenewspaper.com The Grapevine is published on Wednesdays by Grapevine News Corp. Copyright © 2009. All rights reserved. This letter concerns the generosity of one business in particular. Rossi School is having a Chinese auction fundraiser on Friday night, March 6, and our room is putting together a basket for hair. I went to every business that had anything to do with hair and asked for any small donation. One business, Douglas Arthur, on Main Road next to the Acme was the only one who responded, and his generosity was something else. He not only gave us a coupon for a hair cut, blow dry and style, but one for a pedicure and manicure, and also another for a complete makeup consultation and application. I believe kindness should always be acknowledged, and if you could mention it, I would greatly appreciate it. — Linda Salerno, Vineland. Visit www.doublefeatures.com for info on all of the latest new releases on DVD and Blu-Ray Disc and sign up for our free weekly emailed newsletter. the grapevine { 3 } Open 10am to 9pm Mon.-Thurs. 10am to 10pm Friday and Saturday 12noon to 9pm Sunday I COMMUNITY CALENDER HAPPENINGS EVERY WEDNESDAY Single Parents Society Dance. North Italy Club, Virano Ln. and East Ave. Cumberland County Chapter holds the dances weekly, featuring live bands. 7:30-10:30 p.m. $7 members, $9 non-members. 825-6635. side Andrea Handy, Project Graduation president, and Andrew Anastor, a senior active in the club. Mayor’s office: 794-4011. A 50TH CLASS REUNION is scheduled for the Vineland High School Class of 1959. It will be held October 17, 18, and 19. An informal get-together will occur at Filomena’s (Harding Highway) in Buena on Saturday, October 17. On Sunday evening, the big event will occur at Centerton Golf Club. Then on Monday, October 18, a buffet breakfast will be held at the Ramada Inn. If you know of any member of the class who has not received an invitation, call Jackie at 697-1092. TOTALLY TOMATOES is a free lecture to be given Thursday, March 5, at 10 a.m. and again at 7 p.m. at the Carl Arthur Recreation Center (Third and Plum streets). Countryside Garden Club is hosting the meeting and encourages everyone to grow some of their own vegetables, especially tomatoes, to help stretch their food budget. Call 794-9434 for information. Photo: Peter Nitzsche/RUTGERS THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT has moved to a new location recently. The new address is 790 East Commerce Street, Bridgeton, NJ 08302. Phone numbers have remained the same. The Offiice’s normal weekday hours of operation are 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. FRIDAY, MARCH 6 Basket Auction. Rossi Middle School, 2572 Palermo Ave. Baskets up for bid can be viewed from 6-7 p.m. Winners announced after 7 p.m. Bake shop,” door prizes, too. 6-9 p.m. Tickets $7. 794-6961. EVERY WEDNESDAY IN LENT Bread and Broth. Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 2384 E. Landis Ave. A Lenten meal at 6 p.m. followed by a 7 p.m. service. 691-4278. FRIDAY, MARCH 6 Basket Auction. 1452 Main Rd., Newfield. More than 65 baskets, featuring merchandise for all ages. 6:30-9 p.m. Drawings begin at 8 p.m. $5 per sheet of 25 tickets. 697-0220 before 4 p.m during the week. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4 Cooking Demonstration. Bellview Winery, 150 Atlantic St, Landisville. Wine with three courses by chefs from Scotland Run Country Club, Williamstown. 6 p.m., $47. Advance tickets required. 697-7172. MARCH 6 AND 7 Antiques, Collectibles & Crafts Show. The Woman’s Club of Vineland, 677 S. Main Rd. & Washington Ave. Friday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. THE LADIES BIBLE CONFERENCE at Faith Bible Church (3139 E. Chestnut Avenue) is set for March 20 and 21. Titled “Be Still My Anxious Heart,” the conference costs $30. Deadline to register is March 8; call 691-3460. FRIENDS OF RON MEJIA, Vineland resident and owner of Systec of Vineland, will host a benefit to help defray Ron’s cost for medical treatments. The benefit is set for Friday, March 13, from 7 to 11 p.m., at the North Italy Club (414 Virano Lane). Tickets are $30 each and include a buffet, DJ and dancing, comedian (WIP’s Big Daddy Graham), and other fun activities, including a silent auction. A cash bar also will be available. Tickets can be purchased and silent auction donations made through Mary Lundberg at 692-4406 or Denise Vizzini at 466-2664. Donations also can be made to “Benefit for Ron” at any Sun National Bank. TRINITY EPISCOPAL CHURCH welcomed a new priest, The Reverend Ellen C. Rutherford on March 1, the first Sunday of Lent. Service of Holy Eucharist is at 9 a.m. All are invited to coffee hour following the service. On alternate Sundays (starting March Rev. Rutherford will minister at St. Andrews Episcopal in Bridgeton. EVERY THURSDAY IN LENT Community Lenten Lunches. First Presbyterian Church, 800 East Landis Ave. Lunch and brief message by a different clergy from the community each week. Noon-1 p.m. MONDAY, MARCH 9 Environmental Commission and Tree Committee Meeting. City Hall, Fourth Floor Conference Room, 640 E. Wood St. 7:30 p.m. THURSDAY, MARCH 5 The Photographic Society of Vineland. Newfield Senior Center, corner of Catawba Ave and Church St, Newfield. New members welcome. 7:30pm. 691-4563. TUESDAY, MARCH 10 City Council Meeting. Council Chambers of City Hall, Seventh and Wood sts. Open to the public. 7:30 p.m. FRIDAY, MARCH 6 Stars that Shine: Class of 2009. St. Anthony’s Community Center, Wheat Rd. “Beef and beer” benefit to raise funds for Project Graduation. 6-11 p.m. Tickets $30 per person. Pictured: Mayor Robert Romano holds up a pair of tickets, along- WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11 Planning Board Meeting. Council Chambers of City Hall, Seventh and Wood sts. 7:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11 VPS Board of Education Meeting. 625 Plum St. 7 p.m. THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION (CCBA) and its Foundation are now accepting applications for the CCBA Scholarship Program aimed at promoting and supporting deserving students of the law, or those choosing careers in related fields. Area high school and college students, and County residents currently attending law school may apply. All area law schools, high schools, and the Cumberland County College have the Scholarship Application packets on hand in their respective guidance departments. The deadline to postmark the applications is March 25. Students may obtain information and applications online at www.cumbnjbarassoc.org or by calling the Association at 696-5550. SUNDAY, MARCH 15 Pasta Dinner Fundraiser. North Italy Club, Virano Ln. VHS softball team benefits. $10. 794-6800, ext. 2745. SEND US YOUR EVENT NOTICES. We know that there’s more happening out there, and we want to help you publicize your events. Send them to us at the address listed on page 3. Do You Have Dangerous Trees? { 4 } the grapevine | MARCH 4, 2009 Call For Your Free Evaluation Good, Clean Work At Reasonable Prices Don’t Be Fooled. Call A Certified Aborist. For All Your Tree Care. Pruning • Tree Removals • Storm Damage Elevations • Shrubbery Trimming • Stump Grinding Owner Operated Local Business • Fully Insured Owner Working At All Jobs! FREE ESTI MATES www.forresttreesurgeon.com 10% Off Any Tree Service Forrest Tree Surgeon • 856-694-0922 Must present coupon at time of estimate. Not valid with other offers. Exp. 2/28/09 MARCH 15 THROUGH 17 Parish Mission & Healing Mass. The Parish of Saint Padre Pio at the Church of Our Lady of Pompeii, 4680 Dante Ave. Healing Mass and Anointing of the Sick, Sunday 3 p.m. Lenten dessert social to follow in Rosary Hall. Communal Lenten Penance Service, Monday, 7 p.m. Mass and healing service, Wednesday, 7 p.m. All invited to attend. 691-7526. Varicose • MONDAY, MARCH 16 NAMI Monthly Meeting. Chestnut Assembly of God, 2554 E. Chestnut Ave. County Chapter of National Alliance on Mental Illness meets. The guest speaker will be Gary Moellers, Dir. of Community Svcs. at the Cumberland County Guidance Center. 7-9 p.m. 691-9234. Veins? Reach Out To The Most Qualified Specialist Minimally Invasive Insurance covered and SPORTS SATURDAY, MARCH 7 Philadelphia Flyers Legends. Canlan Ice Arena, 2111 Industrial Way. The St. Augustine Prep hockey alumni vs. Philadelphia Flyers Legends. 1 p.m. Buffet dinner w/ Legends after the game. Game tickets $25/students $15, Game & buffet, $60/students $40. 697-2600 ext. 136. 30 min. Office Treatment Free Vein Screening Call to schedule an appointment • Featured on EVERY MONDAY Zumba. Vineland 1st Church of the Nazarene, 2725 N. Delsea Dr. Join Tamara for the latest exercise craze. 6:15 p.m. – low impact, 7 p.m. – high impact. 696-4380. EVERY TUESDAY Karate Class. Dr. Wm. Mennies School, 361 E. Grant Ave. Program of the Vineland Recreation Commission, for girls and boys ages 6 and up. Tuesdays 6-7:30 p.m. Registration fee $15, 794-4000, ext. 4681. Charles L. Dietzek, D.O., FACOS Raymond S. Wojtalik, M.D., FACS Voorhees • Sewell • Vineland 856.309.VEIN (8346) Specializing in spider and varicose vein treatment EVERY THURSDAY Free Yoga Class. Holly Heights School AVA room (2515 E. Main Street), Millville. Linda Schimmel, certified yoga instructor, teaches. Open to all age groups and suitable for most fitness levels. Dress comfortably; bring a yoga mat or beach towel to class. 6-7 p.m. Every Thursday through April 30. 2950 College Dr., Suite 2B, Vineland • www.VeinVascular.com WWW.GRAPEVINENEWSPAPER.COM | the grapevine { 5 } I Downtown Vineland { TODD NOON, EXEC. DIR., VDID/MAIN STREET } Credit Earned The Vineland program has again received national accreditation, thanks to volunteers and everyone involved. s I was preparing to write this week’s column, I suddenly received an e-mail that not only made me change the topic of the column, but also made me proud of our volunteers and Main Street organization. The hard work all of us do on behalf of VDID/Main Street Vineland has paid off and is being recognized. We have been accredited again this year as a National Main Street Program by the National Main Street Center. This accreditation is not given out at random and has to be earned by adhering to certain standards of performance. Last year, we were one of fewer than 680 Main Street programs across the nation to receive such recognition. The criteria for accreditation, which touch on many of the aspects of our organization that I have explained in earlier columns, include: • Having broad-based community support—in A the public and private sectors—for the downtown revitalization process; • Developing vision and mission statements relevant to our community and the program’s stage of organization; • Having a comprehensive Main Street work plan; • Possessing and exhibiting an historic preservation ethic; • Having an active Board of Directors and committees; • Having an adequate operating budget; • Having a paid professional program manager; • Conducting a program of ongoing training for staff and volunteers; • Reporting key statistics; and • Having a recurrent membership in the National Main Street Network® membership program. What does all of this mean? In the words of Doug Loescher, Director of the National Main Street Trust Center, “These standards of performance help us keep the Main Street movement strong and focused nationally.” The work of each of the four committees— Organization, Promotions, Design, and Economic Restructuring—is evaluated based on these 10 standards of performance. Documentation of our work is sent in and our performance is evaluated by Main Street New Jersey. If you want to learn more about this accreditation process, visit www.mainstreet.org/nationalprograms. Closer to home, it means that the four committees that meet in rotation every Thursday morning—and the various event and project subcommittees that come out of those committees—are on the right track. It means that our dedicated volunteers—those who work hard to plan and put on the various events and festivals, who plan fundrais- ing activities, who work on projects to beautify our downtown, and who work to help downtown merchants market themselves— are pulling in the right direction. I can only echo the words I said when we received this accreditation last year. “This is a tremendous honor for downtown Vineland. The thousands of hours donated by our volunteers, coupled with the millions of dollars in private and public investment in Landis Avenue, demonstrate that the revitalization of downtown is in full swing. The future is certainly bright, and it is great to be recognized by the National Trust Main Street for achievements.” I *** I want to thank all those who helped with our “Chuckles and Cheese Steaks” comedy show. The organizers, those who sold tickets, those who worked at the event, and the performers who kept everyone laughing—all deserve my gratitude. Most of all, my thanks go out to all who came out and had a great time. Your support of the VDID/Main Street Vineland cause is also a key factor in what our accreditation is all about. For more information on all VDID/Main Street Vineland events and activities, call our office at 794-8653 or visit www.mainstreetvineland.org. DAYTON MICHELIN FIRESTONE GOODYEAR All Tires And Wheel Packages On Sale The Largest Tire and Custom Wheels and Truck Assessory Inventory in South Jersey COMPLETE AUTO REPAIR SERVICE | MARCH 4, 2009 FREE TIRE MAINTENANCE for the life of your tires when you purchase 4 tires Mount • Balance • Valve Stems NO DISPOSAL FEE Apply now for your 5,000 Mile Tire Preventive Maintenance Program for the Life of Your Tire FREE • • • • • • ROTATE YOUR TIRES BALANCE YOUR TIRES CHECK AIR IN TIRES INSPECT BRAKES INSPECT SHOCKS & STRUTS INSPECT FRONT END CREDIT FIRST CARD ED CONSTANTE TIRE Welcomes Wholesale to all Dealers 6 } the grapevine 480 S. Delsea Dr. • Vineland • 856.696.3206 or 856.696.2550 WWW.EDCOSTANTETIRE.COM 3.5% SALES TAX Open Mon-Fri 8am-5:30pm • Sat 8am-2pm FEDERAL MICKEY THOMAS DUNLAP KUMHO FALKEN I Gleanings { DEBORAH A. EIN, MANAGING EDITOR } Science Rules… Especially when you have a winning project or invention. ver since childhood, in school, then in my work, I’ve been torn between language and science. Between English and nature. Between words and scientific formulas. So when we decided to run Read Across America as a cover story this week, then I heard about two local science fairs, I was compelled to give science equal time. Thus, I am devoting my column this week to some of the great scientific minds in the Vineland schools. One of the science fairs was at The Ellison School: From the “five-second rule” to solar cooked brownies, to earthquakeproof construction, this year’s Ellison Science Fair projects were presented individually and in teams by fifth through eighth grade students on February 19. E “We’re proud of all the kids,” says Sarah King, a science teacher at Ellison. “We continue to be amazed by their creativity and unique interpretations of scientific concepts.” Top three overall CCC Science Fair winners— Luke Gedrimas, Trevor Blauth, and Zachary Horan—are all Notre Dame students. Science teacher Tracy Carrow and Principal Dr. Mary Alimenti proudly support the young scientists. The seventh and eighth grade student winners by category include: Earth/Plant Science: First Place, Rahi Patel (8th Grade, Vineland); Second Place; Kristen Natoli (8th Grade, Vineland); Third Place, Jillian Kutner (8th Grade, Vineland); Honorable Mention, Abiha Kazmi (8th Grade, Vineland). Human Health: First Place, Morgan Falasca (7th Grade, Vineland); Second Place, Nicole Libbey (7th Grade, Vineland; Third Place, Zachary Novick (8th Grade, Cape May Court House; Honorable Mention, Bryan Alcox (7th Grade, Mauricetown). Physical Science: First Place, Andrew Sager (8th Grade, Vineland); Second Place, Kasey Harmon (7th Grade, Vineland); Third Place, Tie between Jeremy Novick (8th Grade, Cape May Court House) and Thomas Scrivani (7th Grade, Vineland); Honorable Mention, Chris Painter (8th Grade, Pittsgrove). The other science fair in the region was at Cumberland County College on February 24. Grades 6, 7, and 8 from schools in the region entered the competition in categories including Behavior/ Morgan Falasca’s “Five Second Rule” project earned her First Place in the Human Health category at the Ellison Science Fair. Social Sciences, Biochemistry, Botany, Chemistry, Earth/Space Science, Environmental Science, Medicine/ Health, and Physics. Notre Dame students took the top three overall prizes. Eighth grader Trevor Blauth placed first for his project in Earth/Space Science. Zackery Horan, also an eighth grader, took second place overall for his project in the category of Medicine/Health, and Luke Gedrimas, a sixth grader, took third place overall for his project in the Physics category. Congratulations to all the young scientists who entered and placed in these two science fairs. I Safe & Secure Individual Retirement Accounts • Traditional & Roth IRAs • Education Savings • Health Savings • Simplified Employee Pension Plan • Savings Incentive Match Plans for Employees *Substantial penalty for early withdrawal. **Consult your tax advisor. Member FDIC • Save money for your retirement* • Reduce your taxable income now ** Don’t wait! Dial 1-800-690-3440 for more information or stop into a branch near you! WWW.GRAPEVINENEWSPAPER.COM | the grapevine { 7 } 1-800-690-3440 • www.newfieldbank.com CHAMBER AT 90 (Continued from cover) its membership practically doubled. In the next year, it published a Monograph of Beautiful Vineland and clearly defined its purpose as uniting the borough’s citizens “in a common cause as to insure concerted action on the part of all good citizens in the interest of community betterment and sound progress.” “The broad concept still applies,” says Paige Desiere, Greater Vineland Chamber of Commerce executive director for the past 10 years. “Our focus is much more geared toward the business community today, which has a definite impact on the community at large.” “Some people don’t know what we are,” Desiere continues. “They don’t know that we’re a non-profit organization and not an arm of the city. Some believe the Chamber of Commerce is a place to call for the best hotels in the area or for ribbon cuttings.” While Desiere confesses that her office receives its share of inquiries from tourists looking for accommodations while visiting the nearby Motorsports Park, she clarifies that the Chamber’s programs and sponsored events better define the organization and how it serves its 600 members. A Young Professional Group for members in their 20s and 30s and faster-paced business networking are examples of how the Chamber is placing, according to Desiere, “more focus on specific issues and groups.” A Restaurant Association to help promote such establishments, particularly in the midst of the economic crisis, has been created. The organization has also become more involved with legislation lately, watching for how New Jersey laws will affect area business. And, the Chamber now hosts a monthly session for local businesspersons to meet one-on-one with First District Assemblyman Matt Milam. Desiere’s enthusiasm for and longstanding devotion to the Chamber is reminiscent of the spark that gave rise to the organization 90 years ago. Although a Board of Trade was established in 1888, Leo L. Reading, a former newspaperman who became the organization’s first secretary, convinced others that there was a need for a Chamber of Commerce in Vineland. He helped organize the first meeting, taking the minutes while Eugene M. Kimball, who would serve as president until 1923, chaired the event. In addition to promoting the business opportunities the town has to offer, the Chamber has also served the community by honoring businesspersons who have contributed to Vineland. Desiere explains that the selections have recently been based on themes chosen by a Chamber committee. “This year, the recipients will be chosen based on how they overcame obstacles or adversity,” Desiere says. She adds that the theme reflected the economic crunch currently gripping the country. In its early years, the organization fought vigorously for the consolidation of Vineland Borough and Landis Township. The issue was the only business item discussed at its first meeting, and it continued to lead the list of priorities until the two municipalities merged in 1952. Former Chamber executive secretary M. Murray Sternberg, writing shortly after his retirement during the group’s 50th Anniversary, admitted that the Chamber’s efforts included setting up a “master plan to embrace, explore and answer every conceivable criticism that could be directed against this merger.” At the time of Sternberg’s retirement, the Chamber, which had incorporated in 1934, sponsored a successful annual Mardi Gras festivity that culminated in crowning a Queen who represented Vineland at various functions throughout the year. Curiously, Sternberg also told the press at the time that locating missing children was an important behind-the-scenes Chamber function. Today, the New Orleans celebration has been replaced by the Chamber’s sponsorship of a Dandelion Dinner, in which the Residential & Commercial Service & Installation Heating & Cooling Equipment Hot Water Heaters Water/Sewer Underground Piping Sewer Drain Cleaning Serving Vineland for over 100 years! 691-1950 State Lic. # 12089 Vineland-grown delicacy is sautéed, fried, baked and bottled for a special evening that draws residents and travelers alike. Desiere is quick to point out that this year’s Dandelion & Beer Festival, scheduled for March 28 at Merighi’s Savoy Inn, pays tribute to one of Vineland’s oldest businesses. “It represents the agricultural side of the community, which is so important,” she says. After the turn of the millennium, the Chamber of Commerce moved its offices from center city, where it had once occupied a series of Landis Avenue locations as well as the recent city-owned building on East Avenue and Wood Street, to its current Delsea Drive site. “That was a decision we had to make,” Desiere says. “It was important for us to have an independent voice. It was the right step for us to move out on our own… Wherever our physical location is,” she says, “doesn’t change our intent.” What has changed, she notes, is how consumers purchase what they need. “Ninety years ago, you didn’t think about buying anywhere else but your local stores,” she observes. “Now there’s a change in retail thinking across America, but this community still recognizes the importance of local economy.” Like Leo Reading, Desiere sees a profound need for a Chamber of Commerce in Vineland. “The community needs a Chamber to fight in Trenton, make conditions better, recruit new businesses and maintain current businesses,” she says. For the past 90 years, Vineland has certainly agreed. I | MARCH 4, 2009 Getting Divorced? Bonnie L. Laube, Esq. Greenblatt & Laube, PC Divorce, Separation, Custody, Child Support, Parenting Time, Alimony, Asset Distribution, Emancipation, Domestic Violence Certi?ed by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney 8 } the grapevine 856-691-0424 • email: bll@greenblattlaube.com 200 North Eighth Street • PO Box 883 • Vineland, NJ 08362 READ ACROSS VINELAND (Continued from cover) kings can’t rule the sky.’ This speaks of being accountable,” says Levin. “The Lorax, ‘I am the Lorax, I speak for the trees. I speak for the trees for the trees have no tongues.’ Seuss was our first environmentalist. On our planet Earth, all animals, small and great, have a right to have a clean habitat.” (This year, Johnstone’s theme for Read Across America is “Think Green with Friends and Family.”) Sun National Bank “Reading lets you have an open mind and opens doors to new adventures, experiences and ideas,” says Bart Speziali, executive vice president of wholesale banking at Sun National Bank. “I like that a book can take you away to a new place and see things through others’ eyes.” Speziali will be reading to two fourth grade classes at Sabater Elementary. Some 30 Sun Bank employees, including the CEO, will be reading Money Savvy Kids at schools throughout New Jersey. The book has a traditional story, but also focuses on building financial literacy. “We’ve had individual people reading before, but this is the first year we’ve done a corporate-wide effort,” says Christine Irving, VP of public relations at the bank. “If we read to kids today, we’re helping them write their own story that will have a happy ending and that ending is success.” The bank also hosted a book drive earlier this month at all 70 locations throughout the state, collecting over 1,300 books. Those books will be distributed locally, in the area in which they were collected. The 100-plus books collected at the Sun’s Vineland locations will be distributed to Sabater, Mennies, and D’Ippolito schools. Bishop Schad Regional School “We are celebrating Read Across America by reading some of Dr.Seuss’ classic books,” says Linda Stanewich, a first grade teacher. “To go along with our stories, we will be making Dr. Seuss hats, cooking green eggs and ham, and having students from upper grades come to our class to read. Every Friday afternoon, the school has DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) time in which each child reads or listens while the teacher reads a story. This week, we will have DEAR time every afternoon.” Parents and grandparents are also coming in to read their favorite books to the class. Veronica Glogau’s second grade class will celebrate Green Eggs and Ham with a breakfast. “Our goal is to encourage reading as a pleasurable pastime,” says Glogau. “Students will bring bedroom slippers to school with their favorite books and will find a comfortable spot to read. They may even sit in the hall or at the teacher’s desk.” Petway Elementary School “Through the craziness of this wacky week, we hope to plant the seed to read,” says Debbie Eisinger, Petway’s media specialist. The school has hosted theme days based on Dr. Seuss’ books, such as a day to wear brown (Mr. Brown Can Moo Can You?), crazy or mismatched socks (Fox in Soxs), and pajamas (I Am Not Going to Get Up Today). Petway also has a full slate of guest readers lined up, including Mayor Romano, county freeholders, a Phantoms hockey player, and authors Lisa Funari-Willever and Chris Rumble. The school plans to keep a rocking chair going, inclusive of a student reader, for a “Rock and Read” marathon. Petway and Winslow schools are joining forces to include the whole family for an evening event, having breakfast for dinner to celebrate Green Eggs & Ham. In addition to crafts and activities, the schools plan to give each student a free book to encourage them to build home libraries. Kids appreciate Dr. Seuss’ books for their creativity. From the wide range of events planned for the week, it is also evident that his books inspire creativity in our educators and community leaders. I The smart way to work and play. > Full QWERTY keyboard > Nextel Direct Connect® > WI-FI, email access $ 149 99 WWW.GRAPEVINENEWSPAPER.COM | $249.99 two-year price. Plus $100 mail-in rebate with new line activation, $30 or higher data add-on or Everything plan with data and two-year agreement. Simply Everything Plan Optimize your phone with a plan that gives you unlimited use of virtually all of its capabilities. Stripers, Drum Fish, Flounder, Blue Fish, Weakfish, Sharks, Tuna, Mahi-Mahi Anger Management Sportfishing $ 99 99/mo. Other monthly charges apply.** For more details visit your nearest Sprint Retailer. No contract extension required for current customers. Available for new lines of activation with a two-year agreement. Premium content excluded. Contact your Sprint Preferred Retailer: For Pricing & Available Dates, Call Stephen at (856) 207-8128 e-mail: angermanagementfishing@comcast.net On the web at www.angermanagementfishing.com Fully insured and licensed charters Communications 533 N. East Avenue Vineland, NJ 08360 856.563.0330 Charge (u p to $1.99/line/mo.), 2639 S. Main Road Vineland, NJ 08360 856.563.0110 622 E. Landis Avenue Vineland, NJ 08360 856.563.1771 are not taxes or the grapevine { 9 } **Monthly charges exclude taxes, Sprint Surcharges [incl. USF charge of up to 9.5% (varies quarterly), Administrative gov’t-required charges and are subject to change. Details: Sprint.com/taxesandfees. Regulatory Charge ($0.20/line/mo.) & state/local fees by area]. Sprint Surcharges May require up to a $36 activation fee/line, credit approval & deposit. Up to $200 early termination fee/line applies. Phone Offer: Offer ends 4/18/09. While supplies last. Taxes and services charges excluded. No cash back. Requires activation at the time of purchase. Data plan required on all active BlackBerry handsets. Voice & data may be purchased separately. Calls made without a voice plan: airtime (0.20/min.) plus long distance ($0.20/min.). Mail-in Rebate: Requires purchase by 4/18/09 & activation by 5/2/09. Line must be active 30 consecutive days. Allow 10 to 14 weeks for rebate. Simply Everything Plan: Offer ends 4/18/09. No plan discounts apply. Premium content/downloads (games, ringers, songs, certain channels, etc.) are add ’l charge. Text to 3rd parties to participate in promotions or other may result in add’l charges. Sprint Music Premier includes 150 radio channels and access to $0.99 song downloads. Sprint TV Premier includes select channels. See sprint.com/tvguide for channel information. GPS Navigation includes Sprint Navigation for Sprint phones or Telenav GPS Navigator for Nextel phones. GPS reliability varies by environment. International services are not included. E-m ail includes use of Sprint Mobile Email, Microsoft Direct Push technology via Active Sync™, Versamail, IBM Lotus Notes Traveler ® or BlackBerry® Internet Service (BIS). Direct Connect and Group Connect (20 max. participants) allows connection to other Nextel Direct Connect subscribers on the same push-to-talk network platform. Usage limitation: Sprint may terminate service if (1) more than 800 minutes, (2) a majority of minutes or (3) a majority of kilobytes in a given month are used while roaming. Servic es are not available for use as a modem, in connection with server devices or host computer applications, other systems that drive continuous heavy traffic or data sessions, or as substitute for frame relay connections. Other Terms: Coverage not available everywhere. The 3G Sprint Mobile Broadband reaches over 249 million people. Nationwide Sprint Network reaches over 262 million people. Offers not available in all markets/retail locations or for all phones/networks. Pricing, offer terms, fees & features may vary for existing customers not eligible for upgrade. Other restrictions apply. See store or Sprint.com for details . 2009 Sprint. Sprint and the logo are trademarks of Sprint. Research In Motion, the RIM logo, BlackBerry, the BlackBerry logo and SureType are registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and may be pending or registered in other countries – these and other marks of Research In Motion Limited are used with permission. Other marks are the property of their respective owners. I Faces in the News Silver State Champs The YMCA Silver State Championships included over 1,700 swimmers from more than 30 teams across New Jersey. A highlight for the Vineland Seals—the 13-14 boys relay team of Austyn Petyan, Robbie Moorhouse, Everett Carson, and Samuel Sheppard won a championship title. Also, Seals swimmers logged 90 personal best times at the three-day competition. Some swimmers now advance to the YMCA State Championship meets in Ocean County and Franklin & Marshall College. The 9-10 boys who dropped time in 15 different swims: Jack Choko, Keith Harris, Alan Hsueh, Ben Jones, and Anthony Santoro. Wood at Woman’s Club Capital Bank Breaks Ground on Branch Office Capital Bank of New Jersey, the Vinelandbased community bank owned by hundreds of local stockholders, held a groundbreaking ceremony at the site of its first branch office, to be located at 1234 W. Landis Avenue, adjacent to Vineland’s new Wal-Mart. From left: Richard (Doug) Smithson, Gary Galloway, Michael Guadagno, Joe Bilbee, Dominic Romano, Mayor Robert Romano, David Catalana, Sam Pipitone, David Manders, Caleb Soto, Harry Hearing. DIVONNA ALLETS HANKINS was dedicated to the Lord on Sunday, February 22 at Pentecostal Church of God MI, located on 1115 South Main Road. Proud parents are Eric and Divad Hankins. Godparents are Lester Ramirez and Connie Mercado. “Thank you to everyone who shared this blessed day with us.” The Woman’s Club of Vineland, at its February business meeting, had guest speaker Kimberly Wood, Director of Planning & Development of Cumberland County. In her job, Wood collaborates between all the local County Chamber of Commerce offices and also the County College to keep the quality of life in balance with the County’s growth. The group learned much from her discussion. Pictured from left, Shirley Burke and Kimberly Wood. Dancing Seniors A dedicated group of Vineland seniors from the Senior Center entertained residents of the Bishop McCarthy Residence with line dancing. Vineland Senior Center has a group who gather at the center for dance lessons and recreation on a regular basis; their ages range from 65 to 81. The group has been together for more than two years. WE WANT YOUR FACES! Send your news and photos to us at the address listed on page 3. DR. JOHN MAINIERO Affordable CHIROPRACTIC CARE $ | MARCH 4, 2009 25.00 A VISIT Come Peek at our NO INSURANCE NEEDED! NO REFERRAL NEEDED! WALK-INS WELCOME. Wedding Invitations NO 691-5900 1420 S. Lincoln Ave. • Vineland, NJ 08360 10 } the grapevine www.HereComes www.doctormainiero.com ~ We Deliver Quality Product ~ At A Discount ON AND WELLNESS CENTER Holiday Greeting Cards Baby Products and Much More… eBride.cceasy.com I Recipe Corner oldier Surprises Wife hen Connie Richmond, a third-grade teacher t Sabater Elementary School, opened the door o the media center one day last week, she hought she was getting an award for the “buterfly” project she directed to honor soliders lost n Iraq and Afghanistan. The project had special significance to ichmond, whose husband, Staff Sergeant illiam Richmond, is serving his second tour f duty in Iraq. Flanked by students who helped reate the “butterflies,” she seemed stunned hat the “award” ceremony attracted a throng of elevision and newspaper reporters. Then Monica Dannenger, the school’s princial, announced that “a special person” would be resenting the award. It was Sgt. Richmond and he raced across the room to embrace her husand, whom she hadn’t seen since September. The couple has been married less than a ear. The Sergeant wasn’t due home until aturday, his wife’s birthday, but made the twoay journey from Baghdad to Philadelphia with tops in Germany and Atlanta to surprise her. Sgt. Richmond is assigned to the 328th ilitary Police Unit/Cherry Hill. He will be home or 15 days and then return to the war zone until is tour is over in June. { LISA ANN DiNUNZIO } Recipe Swap From a lifetime of cooking for family and friends, Sara Rose Chinnici Conahan shares a favorite. reetings! Every year my Mom and I share in a friendly little competition, as each of us tries to be the first to spot a robin. This year for three days straight I could hear the robin’s call, but could not spot him anywhere in my yard. I would say to myself “I hear you, but I cannot see you!” as I wished he would make himself visible. Sure enough, my Mom called me last week and said with obvious enjoyment in her voice “Lee, guess what I saw?” I knew what was coming next, “a robin!” So, yes, this year my Mom beat me in our yearly tradition. But, I look at it as a winwin situation, it’s a sure sign that Spring is on it’s way! So, despite our Monday snowstorm, now’s the perfect time to send in those special spring or Easter recipes to share with other readers! G The following recipe and story is shared by Sara Rose Chinnici Conahan, who writes: “I have enjoyed cooking for family and friends for as long as I can remember. I love family gatherings during the holidays, birthdays, and summer barbeques. Actually, any time we all get together is a special time. And besides the company and great food, I am never seen without my camera to catch those special moments on film. It’s wonderful to look back at the photos later and cherish the fond memories. Here is a recipe I have made many times throughout my lifetime (I am 84 years young!) and I hope you and your family have many happy meals together, as I have with mine! 5 potatoes, peeled and quartered 5-6 Italian frying peppers, seeded, cut in half lengthwise Salt and pepper, to taste Preheat oven to 350°. Place pork chops into a baking pan. Add onion, carrots, potatoes and peppers around the pork chops, season well with salt and pepper. Cover pan with aluminum foil and place into the oven. Cook covered for 40 minutes, then remove foil and cook uncovered for 20 minutes or until pork chops are browned and juices run clear. As always, Bon Appetit! I Lisa Ann is the author of Seasoned With Love, Treasured Recipes and Lisa Ann’s Seasoned With Love II. Send recipes for publication to lapd1991@aol.com or by mail to The Grapevine, 3660 E. Landis Ave. Vineland, NJ 08361. Sara’s Oven Baked Pork Chops 4 bone-in pork chops 1 med. onion, peeled and sliced ½ (16 oz.) bag peeled baby carrots WWW.GRAPEVINENEWSPAPER.COM | the grapevine { 11 } I Culinary Adventures { STEPHEN WILSON / PHOTOS: JILL MCCLENNEN } Deliciously Vegan Christine Scalfo-Glover cooks flavorful meals minus the meat, eggs, and dairy. J Family Restaurant & Pizzeria ingredients and cooking methods to achieve wellness through diet. In these classes, Scalfo-Glover cooks in the vegan tradition, which means she uses no meat, eggs, or dairy. A misconception is that these three ingredients add all the flavor to food, but Scalfo-Glover bucks this idea by making some delicious food without them. Jill and I arrived at the new Evolutions for Conscious Living building (1350 Southwest Boulevard) where the classes are taught. We spotted a yoga class in sesust recently, Jill and I acquired sion in another section of the building. tickets to a cooking class taught by Warrior pose was being practiced, and it Christine Scalfo-Glover. I had was silent and serene inside Evolutions. spoken with Christine back in We were guided around the corner and December to get her take on New Year’s into a small, brightly lit kitchen. Scalforesolutions, and thought that it would be Glover was there, talking with a woman fun to take one of her classes. who had arrived before us. Jill and I found The classes focus on using healthy a seat at a tall bistro table. 3600 E. Landis Ave. (In Lincoln & Landis Shop Rite Center) 856-691-3099 Delivery!! March is FREE LUNCH Month! NO NEED TO WAKE UP EARLY! Our Breakfast Menu Is Now Available All Day Long!! Want the “Real Thing?” | MARCH 4, 2009 It’s an intriguing steak sandwich served on an oversized poppyseed kaiser roll baked exclusively for Donkey’s Place. That’s right, a round roll. The meat is a block of thinly sliced ribeye steak grill-cooked, but never chopped, covered with American cheese and topped with tender onions cooked until they are caramelized from our secret seasoning. It’s the loads of our signature onions that gives Donkey’s Steaks its personality. The red pepper relish is a tangy addition to the flavorful taste. COUPON Gourmet Lunches & Dinners Take Outs & Package Goods SERVING THE FOOD YOU LOVE IN A VERY DIFFERENT WAY. Milmay Tavern has You no longer have to drive to Philly! Authentic “food with flavor” Better Food Better Prices Tuckahoe Road & Millville-Mays Landing Road, Milmay N.J. “Philly Cheesesteak” “Wit Wiz” or Without! Purchase one Lunch at regular price. Get a second of equal or less value FREE! French Fries, Fountain Soda or Coffee No Purchase Necessary 20 South 6th Street, Vineland, NJ Limit one per customer • Expires March 15, 2009 12 } the grapevine Free o er excludes veal or seafood Lunch served from 11am-4pm Expires March 31, 2009 Dine—In Only Phone (856) 690-1777 • Fax (856) 690-1677 E-mail: Donkeys4Vineland@verizon.net • Website: www.donkeyscheesesteak.com Donkey’s Place now booking Cash Benefit Night Fundraising for all schools. Donkey’s Place is located in Cumberland, Cape May, Camden and Burlington Counties. 20 South 6th Street, Vineland, NJ (609)476-3611 Open 6 days 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Closed Monday The kitchen was open and spotless with an island in the middle that had some workspace and gas burners. A freestanding exhaust hood hung over the burners, ready to remove the heat and cooking fumes. The kitchen was decked out with standard culinary wares; oven, dishwasher, big sink, fridge. Wood cabinets lined the rear of the kitchen, and several bistro tables lined the front. More chairs surrounded the island, providing an excellent view of the demonstration area. More folks started trickling in, and soon the kitchen was filled with people hungry to learn. After introductions, Scalfo-Glover passed out menus and recipes. We would be preparing a whipped white bean puree, sautéed mushrooms, spicy roasted sweet potatoes, and broccoli with shallots and walnuts. The cooking portion of the class began with the sweet potatoes. They would take the longest to cook, so the instructor sliced them into wedges and placed them in a bowl. She tossed them with olive oil, salt, curry powder, a little chili powder, and cinnamon. The wedges went onto a tray and into the hot oven. In a pan on the stove, a little oil was heated. Into the pan went chopped leeks, which cooked until softened. Then white beans were added, along with veggie broth, garlic and thyme. This mixture simmered for eight or nine minutes, and then was seasoned with salt and pepper. The contents of the pan went into a food processor, where everything was blended together into a yummy white bean puree. A large pot of water was put on the stove and brought to a boil with a little salt. The broccoli was cut into pieces and blanched in the boiling water, long enough to cook them to a bright green. The shallots were then sautéed in a pan until they got some color, and the broccoli was added with a loud sizzle and spatter. Scalfo-Glover quickly tossed the broccoli in the pan to coat with the shallots and oil, and with a quick seasoning, they were done. The mushrooms were sautéed in a bit of oil, salt, and pepper until they were soft and brown. At this point, the timer for the sweet potatoes went off, which signaled that they were done. Scalfo-Glover took them out of the oven and drizzled a little lemon juice on the browned wedges. It was time to eat! The plates were stacked next to the gas burners, and the food began to be portioned out. A large spoonful of the white bean puree, followed by a sprinkling of mushrooms on top. Several wedges of sweet potatoes found their way next to the white beans. The bright green, perfectly cooked broccoli was spooned onto the plate next. Everything was very pretty and fresh looking, and smelled good, too. The sweet potatoes were awesome. The curry, lemon and sweet potato was an interesting combination and it worked really well. The beans supplied the meal with copious amounts of protein, and the mushrooms added an earthy, meaty flavor to the dish. The broccoli was fresh tasting, and delicious. All in all, quite tasty, and not a drop of animal product! Eating healthy on a regular basis is not easy. It takes a lot of work to learn how to cook well, but it really just takes practice. If you ever need a little inspiration, or want to learn how to cook without using animal products, I recommend that you give Scalfo-Glover a call at 696-4234. You can also get more information on her website at www.foodforliving.net. I Stephen Wilson along with his wife Jill McClennen owns The Sweet Life Bakery. You may contact him via e-mail at thesweetlifebakery@verizon.net. WWW.GRAPEVINENEWSPAPER.COM | the grapevine { 13 } Eating Out From fine dining to lunch spots to bakeries, the area has choices to satisfy any appetite. Call for hours. Amato’s Restaurant, 782 S. Brewster Rd., Vineland, 692-5756. Veal, chicken, seafood, and pasta specialties for dinner. Open for lunch, too. Closed Sundays. Andrea Trattoria, 1833 Harding Hwy., Newfield, 697-8400. Chef/owner Andrea Covino serves up Italian specialties in an atmosphere of fine dining. Annata Wine Bar, 216 Bellevue Ave, Hammonton, 609-704-9797. Food served tapas style, specialty martinis, catering, private parties. Extensive wine list. Live music every Friday 10 p.m.-1.a.m. Bagel University, 1406 S. Main Rd., Vineland, 691-0909. This breakfast and lunch spot offers a menu of sandwiches named for colleges near and far. Bain’s Deli, 636 E. Landis Ave., Vineland, 563-1400. Come in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or take it with you. Daily specials include coffee of the day. Bennigan’s Restaurant, 2196 W. Landis Ave., Vineland, 205-0010. Entrees, desserts, drink specials. Take-out, too. Happy Hour buffet Mon.-Fri. 3-7 p.m. NFL flat-screen TVs. Big Apple, 528 N. Harding Hwy., Vineland, 697-5500. Steaks, veal, chicken dishes. Meet friends at the bar, gather for dinner. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Big John’s Pizza Queen, 1383 S. Main Rd., Vineland, 205-0012. Home of the “Gutbuster” 21-oz. burger, as well as pizza, salads, wings, subs, and dinners. Casa Dori II, Brewster Rd. and Chestnut Ave., Vineland, 794-1888. Authentic Italian, lunch and dinner; catering available. Continental Room at the Ramada Inn, W. Landis Ave. and Rt. 55, Vineland, 6963800. Open for lunch Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Open to hotel guests and the public. Deeks Deli & Kustard Kitchen, 1370 S. Main Rd., Vineland, 691-5438. Call for lunch and dinner specials. Soft ice cream and cakes year-round. Mon.-Sat 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Denny’s, 1001 W. Landis Ave., Vineland, 696-1900. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. Takeout, too. Happy Hour Mon.-Fri. 3-7 p.m. Open 24 hours. Kids eat free Tues. and Sat. Dominick’s Pizza, 1768 S. Lincoln Ave., Vineland, 691-5511. Family time-honored recipes, fresh ingredients. Donkey’s Place, 20 S. Sixth St., Vineland, 690-1777. One-of-a-kind cheesesteaks made on large, fresh poppyseed rolls. Dreamz Cafe, 2184 Union Lake Crossing, Millville, 765-5029. Panini, sandwiches, salads, soups. Also, gelato, Italian coffee, desserts, smoothies, and frappuccino. Esposito’s Maplewood III, 200 N. Delsea Dr., Vineland, 692-2011. Steaks, seafood and pasta dishes at this Italian restaurant. Five Points Inn, E. Landis Ave. & Tuckahoe Rd., Vineland, 691-6080. Italian cuisine and dinner buffets to savor. Family-owned. Fresh Restaurant, 1405 Mays Landing Rd., Millville, 327-3435. Jumbo lump crabcakes, Black Angus burgers. Wed. is pasta night. Gardella’s Ravioli Co. & Italian Deli, 527 S. Brewster Rd. and Janet St., 697-3509. The name says it all. Daily specials, catering. Open daily except Sun. General Custard’s Last Stand, 2578 E. Chestnut Ave., Vineland, 696-2992. Breakfast and lunch daily, dinner Tues.-Sat. Gina’s Ristorante, 110 N. High St., Millville, 825-4241. Italian cuisine, BYOB, nothing over $20. Open for lunch and dinner, beginning March 9. Giorgio’s Restaurant 363 E. Wheat Rd., Buena, 697-2900. Serving lunch and dinner. Italian cuisine, pizza. Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Giovanni’s Italian-American Deli. 1102 N. East Ave., Vineland, 692-0459. Pizza, Italian subs, all your lunch favorites. The Greenview Inn at Eastlyn Golf Course, 4049 Italia Rd., Vineland, 691-5558. Restaurant and lounge open to the public for lunch Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Joe’s Poultry. 440 S. Delsea Dr., Vineland, 692-8860. Barbecue and Kosher chickens, homemade sides, catering. Landicini’s Family Restaurant & Pizzeria Landis and Lincoln aves., Vineland, 6913099. Italian cuisine, gourmet pizza, gourmet salads. Open for lunch and dinner. Larry’s II Restaurant, 907 N. Main Rd., Vineland, 692-9001. Bring the family for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Sunday breakfast buffet and early-bird dinners. Library V Restaurant, 206 Rt. 54, Buena, 697-9696. Renowned for prime rib, steaks, seafood, salad bar. Closed Mon. and Tues. La Locanda Pizzeria and Ristorante, 1406 S. Main Rd., Vineland, 794-3332. Pasta, veal, chicken dishes. Open for lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday. Lucia’s Ristorante, 785 W. Sherman Ave., Vineland, 692-0300. Italian fine dining and regional cooking. Marciano’s Restaurant, 947 N. Delsea Drive, Vineland, 563-0030. ItalianAmerican cuisine, seafood and veal. Open daily for lunch and dinner, Sunday breakfast buffet. Martino’s Trattoria & Pizzeria, 2614 E. Chestnut Ave., Vineland, 692-4448. Dinners, brick oven pizza, risotto, polenta. Open daily for all three meals. Merighi’s Savoy Inn, E. Landis Ave. and Union Rd., Vineland, 691-8051. A banquet/wedding facility as well as intimate restaurant. Friday Night Flashback with Nicky G. Fridays 9 p.m. –midnight. Vineland’s Serving Breakfast & Lunch Daily Dinner Wednesday-Saturday 3 Featuring Steaks, Seafood & Pasta 3 2 DON’T FORGET OUR SPECIAL 2 7 Wednesday Night 7 Pasta Night • Fight the recession and your • 3 financial depression with our 3 new Fresh For Less Menu!! 4 Dinner entrees from $8.95 to $13.95 4 Overstuffed Sandwiches • Black Angus Burgers 3 Chef Fred’s Jumbo Lump Crabcakes 3 FREDRIC BELFUS 5 5 Executive Chef/Owner neighborhood bakery, where everything is made from scratch and quality counts. a 6th street between Landis and Elmer in Downtown Vineland { 14 } the grapevine | MARCH 4, 2009 856-692-5353 www.thesweetlifebakery.com The Sweet Life Bakery was recently named ‘Best Muffins in South Jersey? by SJ Magazine Readers Poll 1405 Mays Landing Rd., Millville, NJ 08332 Between Custard Corral & Old Vineland Tavern Milmay Tavern, Tuckahoe and Bear’s Head rds., Milmay, 476-3611. Gourmet lunches and dinners in a casual setting. Neptune Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge, 1554 South Delsea Drive, Vineland, 6922800. American cuisine, array of cocktails. Next Oar, 127 N. High St., Millville, 2931360. Weekly menu, made-to-order dishes. Olympia Restaurant, 739 S. Delsea Dr., Vineland, 691-6095. Authentic Greek cuisine—lamb dishes and salads. Paperwaiter Restaurant & Pub, 1111 Village Dr., Millville, 825-4000. A special place for all your special occasions. Pegasus, Rts. 40 and 47, Vineland, 6940500. Breakfast, lunch, dinner specials; convenient drive-thru, mini-meal specials. Positano Ristorante, 419 S. Delsea Dr., Vineland, 696-0477. Veal, chicken, and seafood specials, BYOB. Richland House, 1303 Harding Hwy., Richland, 697-5700. Eclectic dinners and casual lunch fare. Closed Mondays. Saigon, 2180 N. Second St., Millville, 327-8878. Authentic Vietnamese cuisine—noodle soups, curry, hotpot, Buddhist vegetarian. South Vineland Tavern, 2350 S. Main Rd., Vineland, 692-7888. Breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. Seafood and prime rib. Steakhouse at Centerton Country Club, 1136 Almond Rd., Pittsgrove, 358-3325. Open for lunch and dinner. Steaks and reserve wines, upscale casual atmosphere. Sweet Life Bakery, 601 East Landis Avenue, Vineland, 692-5353. Neighborhood bakery. Homemade pastries, cakes, coffee. Tony Sopranos, 107 W. Landis Ave., Vineland, 405-0200. Pizza, Mexican Southwest fare, Atkins-friendly salads. Uncle Ricky’s Outdoor Bar, 470 E. Wheat Rd., Vineland, 691-4454. Ribs, chicken, fish, pasta, steaks, and sandwiches. Always clams, eat at the bar or take out. Venuto’s Old World Pizza, 2166 N. Second St., Millville, 327-4002. Pizzas, gourmet salads, appetizers. Villa Filomena, 821 Harding Hwy., Buena Vista, 697-7107. Dinner combos, grilled meats, fish. Lunch and dinner daily. Wheat Road Cold Cuts, 302 Wheat Rd., Vineland, 697-0320. Deli and catering. Wild Wings, 1843 E. Wheat Rd., Vineland, 691-8899. Dinners, grilled sandwiches, wings in eight flavors. Willmott’s Pizza. 12 S. Seventh St., Vineland, 696-1525. Hand-tossed pizzas, stromboli, breakfast pizza. Take-out or eat in. Winfield’s. 106 N. High St., Millville, 3270909. Continental cuisine and spirits served in a casually upscale setting. Ye Olde Centerton Inn, 1136 Almond Rd., Pittsgrove, 358-3201. American classics served in a building right out of a Rockwell painting. Live t: en ntertainm t E . Nigh Thurs The & Cheesy kers Crac Liv Entertaine m Saturda ent: y Night Satin S teel Hours: Mon.-Sat. 11am–2am Sunday 8am–2am Monday Tuesday $2 Miller Light Bottles; $6.95 Miller Light Pitchers $2 Bud Lime Bottles; $6.95 Bud Light Pitchers $2 Miller High Life Bottles; $6.95 Coors Light Pitchers $2 Miller Light Bottles; $6.95 Miller Light Pitchers $2 Coors Light Bottles; $6.95 Yuengling Pitchers $2 Corona & Corona Light Bottles; $7.50 Heineken Pitchers Wednesday $2 Bud & Bud Light Bottles; $6.95 Bud & Bud Light Pitchers Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 10 % Off Any Food Purchase Now Serving Breakfast on Sundays Starting March 8, 8am–2pm All-U-Can-Eat Wings – Sunday, $7.95 Mention this ad to receive discount 408 Wheat Rd., Vineland • (856) 697-9825 WWW.GRAPEVINENEWSPAPER.COM | ON & OFF SITE CATERING AVAILABLE PUERTO RICAN BUFFET FIRST THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH ENJOY THE TASTE OF THE CARIBBEAN MARCH 5TH Enjoy Drinks, Dinner or Light Fare Wed. & Fri. on our Heated Outdoor Deck • Heated Outdoor Deck (Open Wednesdays & Fridays) • Full Service Bar • Happy Hour Tues. – Fri. starting at 4pm • Beautiful Lakeside View the grapevine { 15 } HOURS: Tues., Weds., Thurs., 4-10pm • Fri. & Sat. 4-11pm Sunday Brunch 10am-1:30pm ($13.95) Dinner 3pm-9pm RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED • 611TAYLOR ROAD • FRANKLINVILLE, NJ (856) 694 – 5700 I Entertainment FRIDAY, MARCH 13 Slices of Americana. La Bella Art Gallery & Gifts, 715 E. Landis Ave, Vineland, 264-3711. An exhibition of works by Vineland artist George Perez will open with a reception on March 13 from 7-9 p.m. The exhibition, which will run through March 27, is a series of sketches in oils, watercolor, and pencil of typically American scenes. Pictured here is “Lil Lighthouse.” “This is how I see various facets of American life and culture through the eye of an artist,” Perez said. “I am really excited about sharing this artistic vision with the public.” Perez has worked in the fine arts field for 35 years. He attended the High School of Art & Design in New York prior to moving to New Jersey where he attended Glassboro State College. His portfolio includes commercial and fine art, portraits, caricatures, logo designs, and murals. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday, from noon to 4 p.m., and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. MEET THE ARTIST, JAZZ AND ACOUSTIC, COMEDY, BATTLE OF THE BANDS, AND SCHOOL PRODUCTIONS. MARCH 6 AND 7 Nightlife at Villa Filomena. Villa Filomena Ristorante & Lounge, 821 Harding Hwy., Buena, 697-7107. Thurs.: Ladies Night, Fri.: Live music, Sat.: Italian Accordian. LOVESICK’S ROMEO HILL Vineland born-and-bred musician, Michael “Lovesick” Amari, is making his first official release, the Romeo Hill EP, this week. Mike graduated in 2005 from Vineland High, and is nearly finished with a BA in Music Industry at SUNY Oneonta, located in upstate New York. While at college Mike further developed his talent in the studio and on stage, performing with just an acoustic guitar and harmonica at various open mics and shows. While he has collaborated with many musicians over the years (he fronted former Vineland-based band The Bubbachucks), Mike has made this EP a personal and focused effort by recording, performing, producing and releasing it entirely himself. Musically, Lovesick’s biggest influence is Bob Dylan. He makes it apparent on the EP’s poetically sinister “Atlantic City Girls.” This song gives the listener a first-person take on the serial murders that occurred in A.C. two years ago. The music is folk/blues based, and the focus is clearly on the lyrics. From the first track, “Romeo Hill,” to the last, “Walter (At The Pearly Gates),” there’s a mix of standard blues guitar, beautiful piano, as well as a gritty and raw rock ‘n’ roll sound. The Romeo Hill EP is set for release March 4, and will be available for just $5 at Brenner’s Brew (in Bridgeton), Bogart’s Books and Don’s Guitar Shop (in Millville), and Fuel House Coffee Co. (in Vineland). Check it out at www.myspace.com/Mike lovesick. —Jacqueline Voegtlin SATURDAY, MARCH 7 Just Surrender. Hangar 84, 20 S. Sixth St., Vineland. Also, The Harsh, Last Try, Eyes on the Prize, Almost Arlington, The Crosstown Rivalry. 6 p.m. $10-$12 (frontgatetickets.com). SATURDAY, MARCH 7 Savoy Unplugged: Rob Lipkin. Merighi’s Savoy Inn Bistro, Landis Ave. and Union Rd., Vineland, 691-8051. 9 p.m.-midnight. No cover. SATURDAY, MARCH 7 Solas. Appel Farm Arts and Music Center, 457 Shirley Rd., Elmer. 8 p.m. Pre-show conversation with Gene Shay and Sample the Bounty reception add to Celtic music sensation. Tickets to Solas $26.50, Conversation and Concert $36.50, and Sample the Bounty $45.; 800-394-1211. MARCH 4, 5, 6, 7, AND 10 Nightlife at Bennigan’s. 2196 W. Landis Ave., Vineland, 205-0010. Wed.: ’70s and ’80s Throwback Night (frozen drink specials) 8 p.m.-midnight, Thurs.: Karaoke with DJ Bob Morgan, 9 p.m.1 a.m. Fri.: Blue Moon Dance Party, $3 Blue Moon drafts, 9 p.m.-1 a.m., Sat.: Latin Dance Party, 9 p.m.-1 a.m., Tues.: Country Western Dance Party (beer and shot specials), 8 p.m.-midnight. Vineland, 691-8051. DJ Nicky G from 95.1 WAYV, music from ’60s, ’70s, ’80s and today. 9 p.m.-midnight. No cover. FRIDAY, MARCH 6 Ann Hampton Callaway. Appel Farm Arts and Music Center, 457 Shirley Road, Elmer. Vocalist and songwriter performs. 8 p.m. Tickets $40; 800-394-1211. SATURDAY, MARCH 7 JerseyShows.com Battle of the Bands. Fuel House Coffee Co., 636 E. Landis Ave., Vineland, 563-1400. 6 p.m. FRIDAY, MARCH 6 Dark Hollow. S.R. Rileys, 101 E. Commerce St., Bridgeton, 459-1109. SUNDAY, MARCH 8 Madeline and the Bad Hat. Guaracini Arts Center, Cumberland County College, Sherman Ave. and College Dr., Vineland. Appropriate for grades preK-2, all seats are $5. Call 692-TIXX (8499) to reserve your seats. 3 p.m. THURSDAY, MARCH 5 I Set My Friends on Fire. Hangar 84, 20 S. Sixth St., Vineland. 6 p.m. $12-$15 (frontgatetickets.com). FRIDAY, MARCH 6 Tom Moran/Zack Caruso. Bogart’s Books, 210 N. High St., Millville, 327-3714. Acoustic, 5 p.m./7 p.m. MARCH 5 AND 6 Open Mic/Wine and Cheese. Fuel House Coffee Co., 636 E. Landis Ave., Vineland, 563-1400. 7 p.m./6 p.m. MARCH 12, 13, AND 14 Once Upon a Mattress. VHS South Auditorium, E. Chestnut Ave., Vineland. The Vineland High School Cap ’n’ Dagger Club performs. 7:30 p.m. $15 for reserved seats, $10 general seating. 692-9231. SATURDAY, MARCH 7 Dan Barry. Bogart’s Books, 210 N. High St., Millville, 327-3714. 7 p.m. MARCH 5, 6, AND 7 Oliver. Veterans Memorial School, Main Rd. and Chestnut Ave., Vineland. The intermediate schools of Vineland present their fifth annual production. 7 p.m. $10, senior citizens and students $8. 794-6918. MARCH 5, 6, AND 7 Nightlife at Old Oar House. Old Oar House Brewery, 123 N. High St., Millville, 2931200. Thurs.: Open mic, 9 p.m. Fri.: Revolver, 9 p.m., Sat: Retrospect, 9 p.m. AT THE CASINOS Tickets: 1-800-736-1420; www.ticketmaster.com unless otherwise noted. HEADLINERS, COMEDY ACTS, AND REVUES comedians nightly. Sun.-Thurs., 9 p.m., $23; Fri., 9 and 11:15 p.m., $23; Sat., 9 and 11:15 p.m., $28. Order tickets by phone at the Comedy Stop Box Office: 1-877-FUNNY-AC or 609-348-0920. Visit www.comedystop.com. | MARCH 4, 2009 Gary Allan. Showboat House of Blues. 9 p.m. $42, $37. AnnaLynne McCord. Harrah’s The Pool. From the hit series 90210. 10 p.m. $25. HEADLINERS FRIDAY, MARCH 6 Profapalooza. Showboat House of Blues. Stockton Faculty Band, Dangerboy, Faculty Lounge. 7:45 p.m. $35, $25. 16 } the grapevine COMEDY & MORE Comedy Club at Borgata. Borgata Music Box: three comedians daily, 9 p.m. (except during headliner engagements) 1-800-298-4200. Comedy Stop at the Trop. Three Yesterday: A Tribute to the Beatles. Tropicana. Liverpool Club Theater in North Tower. Wed.–Sun., 8:30 p.m., $25. FRIDAY, MARCH 6 Friday Night Flashback. Merighi’s Savoy Inn Bistro, Landis Ave. and Union Rd., SATURDAY, MARCH 7 Russell Thompkins Jr. and the New Stylistics. Hilton. 8 p.m. $25. MARCH 6 THROUGH 8 Rock n’ Roll Will Never Die. 9 p.m. Fri, 3 and 8 p.m. Sat, 7 p.m. Sun. $25. I Historical Vineland { VINCE FARINACCIO } The Land Purchase Journals reveal details about the negotiations that led Landis to purchase land that would become Vineland. W e’re familiar with the story of how Charles K. Landis settled on this area to conduct his experiment of a city surrounded by farms and vineyards, free of alcohol and broad-minded in its acceptance of different creeds and philosophies. But, what if the behind-the-scenes snags in the negotiations between Richard Wood and Landis prevented the deal that led to Vineland? There were several problems that had the potential to change the history we know. Richard Wood was born and raised in Greenwich, New Jersey. His family arrived with one of the first Quaker settlements to Philadelphia in the late 17th century. Wood established a business in Philadelphia, but returned to his home state, building an iron foundry and cotton mill in Millville. By 1858, Wood had acquired from his half-brother, David, the New Jersey land that once belonged to Pennsylvania founder William Penn. Thus, his ownership extended through most of Cumberland County, including Millville and land north of it. Wood and his partner, William Wilson, owned a lumber business in the Forest Grove area, but there was no sign that the land was being groomed for development by its owner. Selling it would offer more possibilities for progress. On April 1, 1861, Wood writes in his journal that “a person called Landis came to talk about the purchase of a large tract of land.” Landis’ account says the initial meeting occurred in Philadelphia and that Wood seemed to “appreciate the idea” for a planned city. After touring the land together, the prospective buyer found Wood “to be slow and cautious” and his price “exorbitant” at $10 per acre but decided to “humor him in the negotiations” by visiting every day. After a week, Wood chose to visit Hammonton, which had been founded by Landis, and was impressed to see the town’s growth. Landis was offered a second invitation to inspect the land he wished to purchase and visited Wood at his home the day before the tour. When Mrs. Wood asked Landis what he had in mind for the avenues in his new town, the Vineland founder gave a detailed description of how they would be 100 feet wide and “lined with a double row of shade trees.” Landis writes that he had already been called “demented” by Wilson when he explained that a swampy area of land could be drained and reclaimed “to make a good carriage road,” and now his unorthoLandis dox view of Vineland’s main streets would also land him in hot water. The following day, Wood cautioned his interested buyer to refrain from discussing his plans since Mrs. Wood had awakened him during the night to warn him “against making any agreement with you, as she is afraid you are of unsound mind owing to your description of the avenue last night.” Wood seemed convinced of what Landis could accomplish and suggested he not tell people “any more than their minds are prepared for.” Landis writes that Wood gave permission to commence operations on the land while negotiations continued, but Landis insisted on having a deal first. By May 8, 1861, the day after Landis was asked to write what he felt was an appropriate deal, Wood wrote in his journal that they had “agreed upon seven dollars per acre as the price he is to pay.” According to a May 27, 1861 entry in Wood’s journal, Landis was eager to finalize the deal, but by June 20, Wood writes that he had “read [a] letter from Landis, demanding a matter that I cannot comply with; I so informed him. It probably closes our negotiations.” Landis makes no mention of this in his own account. Wood hints in his June 21 entry that the issue involved “interferences in the survey I sold him.” By July 4, at a meeting with his attorney and Landis, Wood “agreed to sign a paper of stipulations previous to the signing of the deed…” On July 22, 1861, one day after, as Woods notes in his journal, Federal troops were defeated at Manassas, the agreement with Landis was finally signed. I Beautiful Smiles, Made Affordable OUR SERVICES MILLVILLE FAMILY DENTAL Union Lake Crossing Shopping Center 2144 N. 2nd St., Millville WWW.GRAPEVINENEWSPAPER.COM | NEW PATIENT WELCOMING PACKAGE $ 80( reg. $230.) Includes oral exam, full mouth series of x-rays, cleaning & polishing, oral cancer screening, periodontal (gums) evaluation. With coupon only. Not valid with other offers. 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Vineland’s Premier Car Wash Offers To You: EXPRESS WASH No Waiting for vacuum customers. Stay in your car!! 2611 S. Main Rd., Vineland Vo te d # 1 t” “B es t of B es 20 08 Only $6.00 to get the salt off!! (Between Grant & Sherman) { STORY & PHOTOS: MARIE TEDESCO } Gift Boo k Availables Engineered Style A homeowner’s engineering eye helps create a special home. Located in every room but the kitchen are long casement windows topped with half-moon panes. The living room has the most windows, making it the brightest room in the house. To compensate for the windows, the home’s insulation is upgraded. The master bedroom suite encompasses the entire second floor. An endearing feature of the bedroom is a large walk-in closet with enough space for two full rows of clothing on both sides and a portion sectioned off with room to fit large items such as exercise equipment. It even has its own window. “Most women would die for this kind of closet,” Ceriani notes. As an additional bonus, the master suite has its own loft with pine wooded balcony rails overlooking the living room area. From the loft’s overview, a person sees one of the many special designs of the home. The living room’s double-sided gas fireplace, plated with ceramic tile, is unusually lifted above the flooring. In fact, both fireplaces have this unique feature. “I had the fireplaces designed myself because I never liked the hearth too close to the floor. It’s simple but different,” comments Ceriani. On the opposite side of the fireplace, French style doors lead into the third bedroom, which Ceriani used as office space. Just next to it is the second bedroom with its own bathroom. Pinewood accentuates all of the finished molding and trim throughout the house. At the other end of the house, the T wo open-hearth fireplaces, a pinewood cathedral ceiling and a loft with a balcony view of a living room sunlit by a half dozen windows. These are a few of the unique features in a finely crafted home at 2112 Conley Drive. Its characteristics combine traditional and contemporary elements, a look that homeowner Jim Ceriani sought to achieve when he had the house custom built in 1988. On less than one acre, the home is catalogued by Coldwell Banker Excel Realty with three bedrooms and two full baths. Diane Risdon, the realtor agent selling the home, calls it “magazine picture perfect.” Risdon adds, “It’s in an exclusive area and well established neighborhood.” Not one home within the surrounding development is alike. In particular, Ceriani’s house has a modern appearance with a large deck out back, a two-car garage and a path leading to a small patio at the home’s front door. It is landscaped with shade perennials, hostas, and ferns that enhance the neutral colored exterior. kitchen is tiled in green and has cabinets galore as well as spacious countertops. The highlight of this room is its large island. Risdon describes its versatility: “It’s great for entertaining a couple of people or several because of the spaciousness.” Lastly, the basement is unfinished but its layout and structure allows new homebuyers to customize it to their particular wants and tastes. Ceriani works as an engineer and Risdon comments that his “engineering eye” beautifully designed the home to be flexible for any homebuyer. Whether a person wants to furnish it contemporary or traditional, she says, “it lends itself to both.” I The asking price for this home is $306,900. For more information or to make an appointment to see it, call Diane Risdon at 696-1111 or 293-1985. 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