If you live in northern Bergen County you know I’m going to talk about the cart outside Ehmer’s in Hillsdale.  You know I’m going to talk about the smoky smell of the variety of hot dogs, sausages and wursts wafting down Broadway.  I’m talking about that moment that comes each year when you know like you know you’ve got to start the summer off right and get over there for a dog and a cream soda.  My Father and Cookie were the officiators of that moment for many years.

Mostly, though, when you think of the Ehmer’s cart you’ve got to talk about all that happening under the watchful eye of Dolores Santucci.  The matriarch of the cart for the last 15 years is out there six days a week no matter the weather.  And if you think it’s only for the summer, think again.

Standing at the cart is a shared local experience usually enhanced by music from the American Song Book, mouthwatering anticipation, and people from all over the county waiting patiently and cheerily eavesdropping on Dolores’ conversations.

Dispensing wisdom, quips and good humor she truly understands living her life the way she wants her story told.  If you don’t use it you lose it she’s fond of saying when asked what keeps her going.  This is what you do for your kids, if they’re good you help them out, if not you throw them out.  Needless to say no one’s been thrown out…well maybe a customer once or twice.   Make sure you read the signs…

Walk across the street to the memorial park and enjoy your feast, do some people watching and just get caught up in the delicious nostalgia.