Rookies & Veterans
The more things change, the more they stay the same...
This Is Rutherford thought it would be fun to compare the thoughts of a
long-time resident with a relatively new transplant.
Email thisisrutherford@gmail.com if you or someone you know would like to participate.
Rookies Tara & Mike Giacalone
Residents for 3 years
Favorite Places: G-Force, Salon Valerie,
Cafe Matisse & Ferazzoli's
Favorite Features: Tree-Lined Streets & The Downtown
1). How many years have you lived in Rutherford?
In July, our family will be in Rutherford 3 years. We moved here, July 2016.
2). Why did you decide to move to Rutherford?
We were living in a two bedroom apartment in Hoboken, with our two young children, Michael and Amelia, and started to get the itch for more space and a backyard while also never wanting to leave urban life. Then we became pregnant with our third baby, Vivian, and we realized it was time to move. We wanted great schools, a small town with the quintessential suburban feel, and public transportation options (bus and train route) to New York City. Originally we were looking in upper Bergen County but the more we searched the more we realized we needed a closer commute into New York City for Mike to be home from work before bedtime. We had friends living in and loving Rutherford that set us up with a fantastic realtor, Michelle Korosy and broker, Adrian Tridel, and the rest is history.
3). What are three of your favorite places in Rutherford?
I’m going to pick 4. G-Force, Salon Valerie, Cafe Matisse, and Ferazzoli Italian Kitchen.
​
4). Why do think people choose to raise families in Rutherford?
Probably the same reasons why we ended up in Rutherford: Great schools, accessibility and proximity to New York City, lovely tree-lined streets, small town feel, and a walk-able main street with shops and restaurants.
5). What is the most beautiful feature of our town?
The Borough of Tree’s picturesque tree-lined streets and Park Ave's business district.
6). What do you find most inviting about Rutherford?
The community of friends and neighbors. We never could have imagined how welcoming and friendly all of the borough’s residents have been to our family.
7). What would you tell someone who is considering moving here?
The house across the street from us is for sale, come take a look.
8). What is your favorite season in Rutherford? Why?
Spring, when the trees bloom again and everything is green and lush. We can fill our front steps with potted plants and flowers and even try to grow some vegetables in our garden.
9) What’s your favorite memory of living here?
Too tough to pick one, but some highlights are the Christmas Tree Lighting, impromptu backyard parties with neighbors and friends, epic season ending baseball practices, and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Veterans Jill & Eddie Chorbajian
Residents for 30 years
Favorite Places: Memorial Field & The Williams Center
Favorite Features: The Downtown & Lincoln Park
1. How many years have you lived in Rutherford?
​
Both Ed and I were born and raised in Rutherford. We both left for short periods in our 20's when we purchased our 1st home in Fair Lawn. We moved back to Rutherford in 2008. In total we have lived in Rutherford for over 30 years
2). Why did you decide to move to Rutherford?
We decided to move back because both of our families still reside here, we both have strong family connections, and the schools. We have 3 children and wanted them to be part of our great school system, experience the deep connections with friends, and be the raised with family close by.
3). What are three of your favorite places in Rutherford?
​
We love Memorial Field and chose a home close to the park. Our kids spend most of their time playing sports at the field, attending games and activities down here. We also love the Williams Center and all the community events hosted at the facility. We regularly attend family movies there as well. We frequent most of the restaurants in town. Some of our favorites are Big Bowls, Mama Rosa and Sonoma Bistro!
4). Why do think people choose to raise families in Rutherford?
There is something special about the families in Rutherford; we are all connected in some way. The connections vary but we have always had a strong sense of "family" here. We are raising our children with many of our friends that also grew up here.
5). What is the most beautiful feature of our town?
I love our downtown! But Lincoln Park right now with the lights is beautiful. Many concerts and community events take place in that park.
6). What do you find most inviting about Rutherford?
When you come into Rutherford you can't help but notice the majestic homes and tree lined streets. It's a welcoming feeling.
7). What would you tell someone who is considering moving here?
​
If anyone is considering a move to Rutherford, I would let them know that we are all family, we look after each other's children, we volunteer, and we all give to help each other. If that is not who you are then maybe Rutherford is not the place for you! Harsh, but true.
8). What is your favorite season in Rutherford? Why?
​
I love the Spring and Fall here. In April the parks come to life, kids are active with either sports, Scouting, or volunteering. Our community garden also springs to life. The fall is magical here also, the colors of the trees are beautiful!
9) What’s your favorite memory of living here?
​
It's hard to chose one. I grew up on a dead-end street with many many children of varying ages. We all played together, had backyard bbq's, played tag until the street lights came on and had a 5 o'clock whistle signaling kids to go home for dinner. We had sleepovers, high school parties, football games and I remember spending our allowance on Park Ave. Loved get togethers at Park Tavern and finally getting our license. We loved growing up here and so do our kids!