The Record, Bergen County, NJ

Antiques & Collectibles

Toying with space Children's toys imitate life because children like to pretend to be part of the adult world. Space exploration has fascinated adults and children since the 19th century, when trips to the Moon and flying were fantasies. In 1961, President Kennedy set a goal for the United States to land on the Moon and return safely to Earth during the 1960s. Toy rocket ships were popular during that time.

Beat the Heat ; On-the-Job Cool

Two cool ways to dress for a business environment when you'd rather be in shorts and a T-shirt: * For men: Jos. A. Bank Stays Cool Suits. This new collection is classically tailored and made with a high-tech wool blend that adjusts to a wearer's body heat.

Hot Beach Reads ; the Light Fantastic

"MAP OF BONES" by James Rollins (William Morrow, $24.95): "The Da Vinci Code" is just not as interesting upon third read-through? Shelve it, and check out this new novel about ancient Vatican secrets and cutting-edge science. "3 NIGHTS IN AUGUST" by Buzz Bissinger (Houghton Mifflin, $25): Spend three games inside the head of St. Louis Cardinals manager Tony La Russa - if you can pull yourself away from your MLB Extra Innings package long enough.

Pop Quiz

Aemma Hung Age: 43

Treasure Hunting in Hackensack

Hackensack's Main Street is a gold mine for bargain-hunters and culture vultures alike. Among the mostly mom-and-pop businesses here, it's easy to find whatever you're looking for - except, unfortunately, a parking spot. The metered parking and one-way northbound traffic are definite downers.

Adopt a Pet

Deck Finishes: Review the Tests Before You Buy

Q. I have a treated-wood deck and have had all kinds of trouble with finishes. I let it dry out, like the builder told me, and then applied a semitransparent stain. When it had mildew, I scrubbed it off and haven't been able to keep any finish on it since. What can I do? It's not clear what the specific problem is with your deck, but here are some general tips:

Elements of a Patio Coverup

On these hot summer days, a patio cover can protect you from the harsh rays of the sun. Of course, shading you from a hot sun is only one reason for a patio cover. You may want one to give you more privacy, to shield you and your outdoor furniture from rain, to expand your living area outdoors and to decrease sun fading of your furniture.

Winning the War of the Weeds

When is the best time to pull weeds? As soon as you see them, goes the old garden saw. But it's not just a saying; in reality those are words to hoe by.

Pitcher-Bowl Set Is Easy to Date

Q. Here's a photograph of a pitcher and bowl set that my husband purchased this year from an antique shop for $115. The markings indicate to us that this piece was made during the mid to late 1800s. Can you tell me if my research is correct? Were these two pieces made by the Minton factory of Germany? Are they porcelain or stoneware, and what is the value? -K.G., Augusta, Ga.

Care Urged with Flea, Tick Products

According to statistics compiled by the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center, summer is the most dangerous time of the year for pets. Last July, the center's hot line received 8,800 calls. Of those, 4,300 had to do with animals having negative reactions to pesticides, with the most common being flea and tick products, weed killers and mouse and rat baits.