About Town: Nuptials and News

What a beautiful weekend Fort Lee had! The weather was magnificent, and so were all the events that many of us attended.

Fort Lee Nuptials

First, congratulations to Fort Lee’s newest newlyweds, Kevin and Kathy (nee Rosas) Mahon, who were married this past Saturday at Madonna Church, the original historic bluestone church on the hill. Their wedding took place in the late afternoon, just at the precise time when the mid-spring sun perfectly angles itself to reflect magnificently off the stained glass windows, allowing shards of color to fall softly upon the congregation of well-wishers. Father Stephen Carey presided over the beautiful ceremony. The bride, a native of Fort Lee, looked stunning in a strapless silk gown. The groom, a recently retired member of the Fort Lee Police Force, looked like a pro in his tux.

This fabulous couple kept it really local by having the reception at our favorite restaurant, In Napoli. Sammy and his crew completely outdid themselves with this wedding. The food was amazing and a big shout-out to Nancy, who kept the drinks flowing. The D.J. got everyone on the floor; the bride and groom didn't stop dancing the entire night. The party continued downstairs after the formal reception ended. Let's just say that we had such a good time and what happens at Naps stays at Naps! The good news is that it only took three days for our double vision to finally go away. Have a wonderful life together Kevin and Kathy! You sure know how to throw a great party!

Dressing For Every Occassion

Speaking of In Napoli and Sam Gnasso, Sam is in the process of bottling his famous salad dressing. That’s right, very soon you’ll be able to bring the taste of In Napoli into your home anytime you want. It’s no secret that everyone loves the dressing Sam puts on his house salad; the only secret is what’s in the dressing. Now, who cares? We can buy it! Now if only he could figure out a way to bottle the barkeeper Jamie…

Spring Cliffhanger Off to a Rousing Start

 The Fort Lee Film Commission in conjunction with the Fort Lee V.F.W., kicked off its Spring 2011 Film Festival by screening episode one of HBO’s The Pacific this past Saturday evening at the Fort Lee Community Center. The Festival, honoring Marine Sgt. John Basilone and all of the men of the WWII Pacific Theater, was introduced by New Jersey Hall of Fame Director John Jay Smith.

Each Saturday through June 5 the Fort Lee Film Commission will screen two episodes of the award-winning HBO series upstairs at the Fort Lee Community Center beginning at 7 p.m. On June 5 the State of New Jersey will be honoring Sgt. John Basilone with his induction into the New Jersey Hall of Fame. Admission is FREE. 

Madonna Carnival Opens Tonight

You’re not hearing things, those festive sounds permeating the air are from the Madonna Carnival. Yes, for over 30 years now, the Madonna Carnival has signaled the unofficial start of the summer season. And after the winter we just had, we can all use a bag or two of steaming, hot, powdery zeppoles! So come on out to support the Church and school. There will be great food, fun rides and lots of games. Our favorite game begins when we get home. It’s called, “How long can we keep the Carnival fish alive?” I’m sure you have your own version of this home game. The Carnival is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 6 p.m. until closing; Saturday from 2 p.m. until closing; and Sunday from 1:30 p.m. until closing.

Runners Up

Don’t forget that this Sunday is the third annual “Run the Palisades” 5K Run/Walk. For the third year Fort Lee, Cliffside Park, and the Diabetes Foundation will host “Run the Palisades” 5K Run/Walk and Health Fair beginning at Cliffside Park High School and running through the towns of Cliffside Park and Fort Lee. The kids’ fun run begins at 9:30 a.m. followed by the 5K. Afterwards there will be a health fair in Cliffside Park High School. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. on the day of the race, but pre-registration is highly encouraged. Click here to register.