A week of life in Hoboken + Jersey City means there is plenty of news to catch up on. Among the local headlines: the Hoboken American Legion Post 107 accepted a $255,100 donation at the Veterans Center groundbreaking on Tuesday; the Jersey City council unanimously passed a bill which requires Asian American Pacific Islander studies to be included in the New Jersey K-12 curriculum; the Mental Health Association in New Jersey played the award-winning film “Orchestrating Change” at the 21st annual Evening of Excellence, and so much more. Keep reading for all the news you missed this week in Hoboken, Jersey City, + beyond.
Holiday Window Decorating Contest Officially Underway
^ Symposia Bookstore’s contest window display
Every year, local businesses decorate their storefront windows as part of the Visit Hoboken’s “Window Into Hoboken” decorating contest. The competition will end on Monday, December 20th. Four businesses will receive awards for Best Overall, Most Original, Best Lighting Display, and the People’s Choice award.
$1,000 Hoboken Girl Giveaway Donation Goes to Liberty Humane Society
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The results of this year’s Hoboken Girl Gives Back Ultimate Giveaway are in! The $1,000 giveaway donation was awarded to Liberty Humane Society in Jersey City. The donation will cover costs associated with food, training, and enrichment supplies for dogs brought into the shelter.
Police Release Statement on Uptown Hoboken Assaults That Injured 6 Residents
The Hoboken Police Department released a statement on Saturday, December 11th to the media regarding the attacks that left several residents injured. “On Thursday December 9th, 2021 at approximately 10:45AM, the Hoboken Police Department responded to the area of 11th and Jefferson Street on the report of a male striking people with a crutch. As officers responded dispatch received additional calls advising the department that the male had stuck multiple people with the crutch. The officers were able to safely arrest Mr. Clanton without incident. Mr. Clanton was processed then transported to the Hudson County Correctional Facility.” Click here for the full report.
The Best of Hoboken 2021: Voting Has Closed
The time has finally come: the finalists for the Best of Hoboken 2021 Guide are in, thanks to our readers’ nominations. We would like to thank everyone for nominating the local businesses to receive the recognition that they deserve. Voting closed on Thursday, December 9th at midnight. Stay tuned as the winners will be announced once the votes are tallied.
Frank Sinatra Statue Unveiled Today in Hoboken
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A new statue of Frank Sinatra was installed outside the Blue Eyes Cafe on the Hoboken waterfront today, Sunday, December 12th. Sinatra was born December 12th, 1915 in Hoboken and lived at 415 Monroe Street until age 12. The statue is the work of local sculptor, Carolyn D. Palmer who has also created statues of Eleanor Roosevelt, Franklin Roosevelt, and Lucille Ball. The unveiling ceremony featured performers from the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts.
The Owners of Barbès Opened a New Hoboken Restaurant
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Last year, we received word that Barbès owners Lisa and Omar Balouma and Abdellah Ksiyer were taking over the former Cucharamama location at 233 Clinton Street. And finally — over a year later — La Boheme, ‘a slice of the French Riviera,’ has soft-opened in Hoboken as of Friday, December 10th. This new locale is bringing a piece of Southern France to downtown Hoboken. Click here for an inside look at the new restaurant.
City of Hoboken to Offer Hybrid City Council Meetings in 2022
Starting in 2022, members of the community will be able to attend City Council meetings in person or virtually via Zoom, allowing for greater public participation in meetings, according to a press release. The release states, “To attend a Council meeting in person, members of the public must socially distance and have their temperature checked. The public can enter City Hall through the main entrance at 94 Washington Street beginning at 6:40PM. Public Council meetings will begin at 7PM. Room occupancy in the Chambers will be limited to 25 members of the public to allow for adequate physical distances as an enhanced precaution against COVID-19. Attendees can enter on a first-come, first-served basis and MUST wear a mask during their entire time in City Hall.”
All members of the public who wish to speak during the Council meeting will be able to do so, regardless of whether they are present in Chambers or participating by Zoom.
3 Arrested in Card Cracking Scheme in Hoboken
Around 2PM on Tuesday, December 7th, the Hoboken Police Department received a call from the Citibank Branch located at 5 Marine View Plaza. According to the police report, a Citibank employee called the department to advise that there was a female in the branch trying to cash a forged check. A crimes detective responded to the scene and detained the female in question. Two other suspects were apprehended fleeing a car parked illegally across the street. Once the arrest process was completed two individuals were released on summons and the third was transported to Hudson County Rehabilitation Center.
Hoboken Health Department Announced Spike in New COVID-19 Cases
This week the Hoboken Health Department announced a spike in new cases of COVID-19 in Hoboken. Average numbers for the week were under 12 new cases each day, however on Tuesday, November 30th that number reached 22 new cases, and on Friday, December 3rd, the total number of new cases for the day reached 53. All eligible adults are encouraged to get the COVID-19 booster.
Bayonne Council President Sharon Ashe-Nadrowski to Run for Mayor
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Bayonne City Council President, Sharon Ashe-Nadrowski has announced her campaign to run for mayor in Bayonne. She posted on Instagram, “My heartfelt thanks to all for the overwhelming support as I announced my candidacy for Mayor tonight. I am excited for the weeks and months ahead as I get to discuss the issues that matter most to the residents of our great city. Together we can restore faith in our city government and build a Bayonne for all.” Nadrowski has been a council member-at-large for seven years.
Proposed New Hoboken High School to Have Rooftop Football Field
On Tuesday, December 7th, the Hoboken Board of Education heard the proposal for a new Hoboken High School, presented by Mount Vernon Group Architects. The new school would be located at 10th and Jefferson Street where the current JFK Stadium is and would include a swimming pool, skating rink, gym, and rooftop football field. The proposed facility will house 27 general classrooms, eight science labs, and six special education classrooms, according to Tap Into. The plan, if approved in early elections on Tuesday, January 25th, would cost $241M.
Hoboken Food Pantry Hosts 2nd Annual Holiday Market
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The Hoboken Food Pantry held its 2nd Annual Holiday Market on Saturday, December 11th in Hoboken. The community was invited to donate toys and wrapping supplies to make the event possible. If you missed the deadline, you can still donate items to the Hoboken Food Pantry throughout the holiday season.
Hoboken Public Library Announces It’s Going Fine-Free for Good
On December 6th, the Hoboken Public Library announced that it will be permanently banning overdue fines. The concept had been a temporary approach to making the library more accessible to all residents and after the success of the trial – the board has decided to make the policy indefinite. Click here to read more about the new policy.
Korean Eatery ‘Ondo’ Coming Soon to Jersey City
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Ondo, a new Korean restaurant, will be opening soon in Jersey City. Located at the 3 Second Street building at Harborside, Ondo will be joining the bustling Hudson Waterfront, which is on its way to becoming a world-class destination and community attraction of top-rated restaurants and remarkable retail. Click here for what we know about the new restaurant.
Miracle on Mercer: The Holiday Pop-Up in Jersey City That Locals Are Loving
Picture this: twinkling lights, life-size Santas, ribbons, bows, vintage garlands, and presents hanging from the ceiling. If all that decor doesn’t get you in the Christmas spirit, then the out-of-this-world festive cocktails and a playlist of all types of Christmas tunes will. The festive concept was started in 2014 at the East Village bar, Mace. The owner of the bar, Greg Boehm transformed the location into a (now wildly-popular) holiday-themed cocktail bar – Miracle on 9th Street. Click here for all the details.
Is Hoboken’s Malibu Diner Closing? Here’s What We Know
Earlier this year, following the closure of Spa Diner, it was announced that the iconic Malibu Diner too, would be closing in the near future – but not for good. On December 8th, we spoke with the current co-owner of Malibu Diner for the latest updates on the diner’s closure, click here for everything we know.
Over $255K Awarded at Hoboken Veterans Center Groundbreaking
The Hoboken American Legion Post 107 accepted a $255,100 donation at the Veterans Center groundbreaking on Tuesday, December 7th, according to Hudson County View. During the ceremony, which took place on the 80th anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor, New Jersey American Legion Commander Daniel Dunn highlighted the importance of the housing project by reminding the audience of the high suicide rates among veterans. Donors including the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation and Hoboken Grace Community Church contributed to the fund, which will help complete the project by next summer. The new living space will provide safe living spaces for veterans. “These heroes deserve a place to live [and] they’re going to get one,” 5th Ward Council Phil Cohen said.
Myron Mixon’s Pitmaster BBQ Opening in Hoboken This Week
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After covering the breaking news and timeline of Hoboken’s soon-to-be newest business, Myron Mixon’s Pitmaster BBQ, which has taken over the former Soul Curry location at 618 Washington Street, we are here to tell you that it will be opening its doors on Monday or Tuesday of next week. Click here for everything we know about the opening.
16-year-old Charged with Car Theft and Crash in Jersey City
A 16-year-old boy was arrested on Sunday, December 5th, after stealing a car from West Side Avenue in New Jersey and crashing into a police cruiser, per NJ.com. The teen was charged with unlawful taking, aggravated assault, eluding, and resisting arrest by flight. The five passengers in the car were cited for joyriding.
Recent Bill Allows Continued Outdoor Alcohol Consumption in NJ
A recently cleared bill allows local restaurants and businesses to serve alcohol at outdoor venues, per Hudson County View. The Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee cleared the bill, which sponsor Raj Mukherji said will “be a boon to these small businesses” as they recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Resolution Passed to get AAPI Studies into NJ Public Schools
The Jersey City council unanimously passed a bill that requires Asian American Pacific Islander studies to be included in the New Jersey K-12 curriculum, according to Hudson County View. Higher levels of hate against these cultural groups inspired the need for additional education and awareness in schools, about which Councilman-at-Large Rolando Lavarro stated, “Our education system not only should reflect the diversity of our state but should ensure that future generations grow up with knowledge and values of inclusivity and social justice by learning the history and contributions of AAPI communities.”
JSQCA calls for 20% Affordable Housing in Residential Redevelopments
The Journal Square Community Association developed a proposal that requests more affordable housing in Journal Square redevelopment areas, per Hudson County View. The 20 percent proposal would double the current requirements in the area, which is experiencing rising property values. The city council will vote on the new IZO on Wednesday, December 15th.
Artists in Residence Present Work at Guttenberg Arts Gallery
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Three artists in residence present a group exhibition titled Space in Time: Fall 2021 which is open now through Sunday, February 13th, according to Hudson Reporter. Anonda Bell, Elly Oh, and Artemio Morales have diverse backgrounds which reflect in their various sculptural, recreated objects, and technological works on display at the gallery. Gutenberg Arts Gallery is open by appointment only Tuesday through Sunday, 10AM through 4 PM. The virtual exhibit is open at any time on the website.
High Winds Damage Partially Constructed Building in Jersey City
A residential building being built in Jersey City was damaged by a partial collapse caused by high winds on Monday, December 6th, per NJ.com. The collapse at 35 Fisk Street also damaged a nearby home and school building at 27 Fisk Street. The building lost five to 10 feet of foundation, about which the construction company gave no comment.
Massive Sewer System Repairs Proposed in Jersey City
The Jersey City Council discussed the need for $1.5 billion in repairs to water and sewer systems in Jersey City during a meeting on Monday, December 6th, reported Hudson County View. The meeting focused on Suez Water’s response to Hurricane Ida, which left extensive damage to the city’s water and sewer systems, including clogged water pipes, contaminated water sources, and more.
Ward E Councilman James Solomon expressed hopes that a future infrastructure bill will help cover the needed expenses.
Advocates Seek Public Input for Future Hoboken Waterfront Plans
Photo credit: Google Maps
Hundreds have responded to a public survey regarding the future of a portion of the former Monarch site, according to Tap Into. Three advocates, Tom Smith, Oskar Serrander, and Noelle Thurlow, released the survey in an attempt to “create a working document to give to the city advocating for uses that could unlock the special potential of the site, but in a cost-effective way (not restoring the platform which would be prohibitively expensive) while still honoring the history and natural landscaping of the site,” reported Second Ward Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher. The survey is still available online.
NJ Schools Reporting Rapidly Rising COVID-19 Cases
November brought a rapid escalation of COVID-19 cases in New Jersey schools, reported NJ.com. Several of the schools in the Union Township district have transitioned to a half-day schedule as New Jersey schools have reported 3,024 positive cases among students last week. Several students are also being asked to quarantine for 14 days after classmates test positive for COVID-19.
Jersey City Toy Drive Raises $100K
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The Jersey City Toy Drive raised close to $100K on Friday, December 3rd. Mayor Steven Fulop posted a video on Instagram of the piles of toys wrapped for distribution. “I just want to express a special appreciation to all the generosity from the JC community and The Exchange Place Special Improvement District on the corporate side,” Mayor Fulop said in the post. “It has been a tough year for many families, but the quality of the gifts we were able to purchase this year will certainly bring many smiles.”
Extra-Duty Police Service Policy Updated in North Bergen
An ordinance adopted by the North Bergen Board of Commissioners updated extra-duty police services policies, including certain charging rates, per Hudson Reporter. These extra-duty police services are services made to private entities, who pay the municipality. This is the second update made to the policy since 2015 to “clarify the emergency services timelines and update provisions concerning the entities that use extra-duty police services on a recurring basis.” The updates will negotiate rates charged for the services, including some funds being reallocated to other charitable foundations.
City of Hoboken Offering Free Parking in Select Garages
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To help local businesses, the City of Hoboken is offering free parking for shoppers for up to four hours in certain parking garages through Sunday, December 26th. The city posted about the offer on Instagram this week, which included information about discounted metered parking in select zones through December. Free parking will be offered in municipal garages B, D, and Midtown, valid with a $20 minimum purchase at a local shop or restaurant.
City of Hoboken Partnering with Weather and Climate Security Platform
Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla announced a new one-year program with Tomorrow.io, which monitors weather and climate for partners, according to the City of Hoboken. The program will allow the city to better prepare for, predict and respond to weather emergencies in the future. “With this cutting-edge technology, we will be able to pinpoint the exact location and time when certain areas of our City will experience severe weather and so much more,” Mayor Bhalla said, “which will not only allow us to deploy City resources more efficiently but ultimately save our residents money and offer them peace of mind.”
‘Shine a Light on Hate’ Gathering Takes Place in Jersey City
Jewish leaders and state officials gathered with residents in Jersey City to ‘Shine a Light on Hate’ in remembrance of the attack on a kosher supermarket and a police officer two years ago, per Tap Into. The event, sponsored by the Anti-Defamation League, Jewish Federation Northern New Jersey, and the Israeli American Council, drew a crowd at City Hall to protest against hate and antisemitism. After a record-breaking number of anti-Semitic events have happened in the last couple of years, the ADL has promoted the “Shine a Light” campaign worldwide.
Public Library in Jersey City Presents Holiday Art Show ‘Merry Happy Joy’
The Communipaw Branch Library in Jersey City opened a holiday-inspired art show on Saturday, December 11th, reported Hudson Reporter. ‘Merry Happy Joy’ features artwork from 20 artists worldwide, curated by Walk-Bye founder Catalina Aranguren. She said, “Artists will interpret the upcoming holidays and how we are taking a step closer towards “normalcy” in the era of COVID-19, and how the changing of the seasons comes with an abundance of reasons to celebrate.” The exhibit also includes music from the Jersey City Free Public Library’s Community Awareness Services department and warm beverages.
Memory of Late JCFD Captain Brings Christmas Spirit to Jersey City
Photo credit: @jan.komrska
An annual toy drive at St. Joseph Church took place in memory of the late Jersey City Fire Department Captain Mark V. Lee, according to Tap Into. The church’s basement was transformed into “Santa’s Jersey City Workshop,” where volunteers sorted and wrapped presents for thousands of children in the area. Lee started the toy drive back in 1985 and continued it until his death in 2014, which was caused by a September 11th-related sickness. A banner at the event, which Lee’s son led, donned a photo of Lee and reminded attendees of the people he impacted during his life.
CarePoint Health in Bayonne Holding Virtual Town Hall
CarePoint Health’s Bayonne Medical Center will hold a virtual town hall meeting on Wednesday, December 15th, according to Hudson Reporter. The meeting will be open to the public and broadcast through Microsoft Teams at 5:30 PM. The link and dial-in number for the meeting can be found online.
Award-Winning Documentary Featured at MHANJ Evening of Excellence
The Mental Health Association in New Jersey played the award-winning film Orchestrating Change at the 21st annual Evening of Excellence, reported Tap Into. The film featured an array of success stories about living with mental illness, specifically the story of the Me2/Orchestra. The film, introduced by Carolyn Beauchamp, MHANJ’s president and CEO, has been “Inspiring audiences to celebrate the differences in all of us, the film helps to break the stigma of mental health disorders while embracing positivity and inclusivity.”
