There was some rainfall in New Jersey this week but the drought warning is still in effect. It has been another week of news in Hudson County, and we’ve got all the headlines to get you caught up, as we do every week — from all around the internet. Among the local news: Hoboken Uptown Farmers’ Market to stay open following Hudson County deal; Jersey City student wins 35th annual PATH Holiday Poster Contest; and the latest updates on the Hoboken City Hall Ransomware Attack. Keep reading for all the news in Hoboken + Jersey City for the week ending on December 15th, 2024.
Have a news story or press release? Email it to [email protected].
Among the Headlines (read on for the full stories + more):
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- Hudson Pride Center to Host Grand Opening of New Union City Location
- Hoboken’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Takes Place
- Two Hudson Catholic Coaches Die in Newark Car Crash
- The Latest Updates on the Hoboken City Hall Ransomware Attack
- Red Bull Arena to Become Sports Illustrated Stadium in 2025
- New Thrift Store, OliJon’s, Opens in Hoboken
- Hoboken Bookstore Hosts Bob Dylan-Inspired Concert Ahead of Feature in Biopic
- Jersey City Man Arrested for Carrying Loaded Handgun During Traffic Stop in Bayonne
- Drone Sightings in New Jersey Continue
- Fluffy Fluffy, a Soufflé Dessert Café, to Open at Newport Centre Mall
2 Additional Cangiano’s Locations to Open in Jersey City in 2025
In 2025, Jersey City locals will have not one, but three locations to get their Cangiano’s fix. Earlier this year, The Hoboken Girl reported that the shop was expanding from its original Hamilton Park location to two more Jersey City neighborhoods. We’re here with a status update: per an exclusive conversation with the Cangiano’s team, construction is already underway at the forthcoming Journal Square location, with the Coles Street restaurant to follow soon. Click here for more.
The Hoboken Girl Launches List of NYE 2025 Parties in Hoboken + Jersey City
As we close out another magical holiday season here in Hudson County, we still have one more celebration list up our sparkly sleeves: New Year’s Eve. For those who are the stay-in-and-pop champagne type or even those who want to feel the energy of a lively party as the clock strikes midnight, we’re here to share a list of New Year’s Eve 2025 events in Hoboken and Jersey City with a little something for everyone. If you need your event added to the list, email [email protected]. Click here for the full list of events so far.
Hoboken Uptown Farmers’ Market to Stay Open Following Hudson County Deal
The Hudson County government has reached a deal to keep the Hoboken Uptown Farmers’ Market, along with connected amenities, open after meeting with city officials. The Hoboken Uptown Farmers’ Market, pickleball court, and futsal court will all remain in operation at Viaduct Park. As of last month, the city had not applied for a permit with the county for the market, which operates from 9AM until 1PM on Saturdays from the spring through the fall. Click here for more.
6 People Killed in Fiery Newark Crash, Including 2 Hudson County Coaches
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Two of the six people killed in a fiery car crash in Newark on December 7th have been identified as coaches at a high school in Jersey City. Per Patch Hoboken, Hudson Catholic head football coach Lamar McKnight, 32, and Assistant Coach Brad Cunningham, 41, were among the victims. Just before 11PM on Friday, a vehicle was traveling on Raymond Boulevard toward an on-ramp to Routes 1 and 9. It left the road, struck a support column for the Pulaski Skyway, and caught fire.
2 High School Students from Jersey City Named Governor’s STEM Scholars
Two Jersey City students have been selected for the Governor’s STEM Scholars program, which connects some of New Jersey’s most talented students with leading professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Per the Jersey City Times, Amiri Hayes, a junior at the New Jersey Institute of Technology, and Prisha Malhotra, a senior at Dr. Ronald E. McNair Academic High School, are among the 2024-2025 class of Scholars. They were chosen from more than 1,000 applicants across the state.
The Latest Updates on the Hoboken City Hall Ransomware Attack
The City of Hoboken was the victim of a ransomware attack in the early hours of Wednesday, November 27th. Per a Nixle alert, the City of Hoboken has opened a call center regarding the ransomware incident. A dedicated phone line has been established for residents, employees, or any other individuals with questions or concerns regarding the recent cybersecurity incident targeting the City of Hoboken. The call center will offer credit monitoring and identity protection services. The number is 1-833-799-4365 and it will operate Monday through Friday from 8AM to 8PM. Click here for more.
New Thrift Store, OliJon’s, Opens in Hoboken
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On Saturday, December 7th OliJon’s Thrift Store officially opened its doors on 138 Park Avenue in Hoboken. The new shop in the heart of Hoboken will be the third thrift store to come to the mile-square-city, amplifying the demand for unique thrifted goods at affordable prices. Click here for more.
Hoboken’s Christmas Tree is Finally LIT
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The City of Hoboken and Hoboken Business Alliance hosted the annual Hoboken Christmas tree lighting on Thursday, December 12th at 5PM at 11th and Washington Streets in Hoboken. The celebration included festive entertainment with Elvis the Elf, live performances by Hoboken youth and the Goldenrod Chorale, and a special visit from Santa Claus himself. Local Hoboken businesses including Merry Hot Cocoa, Caf Me if You Can, and The Hive provided free hot cocoa and baked goods to attendees. Click here for more.
Authorities Seek Shooter Who Killed Man in Jersey City
The Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Unit and the Jersey City Police Department are seeking a shooter who killed a 34-year-old man on December 8th. Shortly after 11:20PM, the Jersey City PD was notified of a shooting on Fairview Avenue between John F. Kennedy Boulevard and West Side Avenue. Responding officers located a victim, later identified as Dushawn Bell, 34, of Elizabeth, with apparent gunshot wounds. He was transported to Jersey City Medical Center where he was pronounced dead at approximately 3:40AM on December 9th. The cause and manner of death are pending the findings of the Regional Medical Examiner’s Office.
New Indian Restaurant in Jersey City Heights Opens
There’s a new Jersey City Heights restaurant on Central Avenue in the Heights. Balaji Bhavan is now open at 249 Central Avenue, according to Jersey Digs. Balaji Mani, its owner, has over 22 years of hospitality experience — and hails from South India. The restaurant is 100% vegetarian, and has a plethora of gluten-free options.
Local Bars in Hoboken + Jersey City Release Holiday Cocktails Menu
A plethora of local businesses have launched holiday cocktails and treats. The Hoboken Girl team curated a self-guided holiday cocktail tour, sipping some of the best creations that Hoboken and Jersey City restaurants and bars have on their menus. Click here for more.
Hoboken Hosts Meeting Regarding 9.8% Rent Hike for Marine View Plaza Tenants
The City of Hoboken hosted a meeting for Marine View Plaza tenants at City Hall on Wednesday, December 11th, following a 9.8 percent rent hike for 2025. Per the Hudson County View, in a November 30th letter, MVP building management sent a letter to tenants indicating that a nearly 10 percent rent increase for 2025 was in the cards, citing an inability to reach an agreement with city officials.
Aspen Prime Medspa in Hoboken Launches Holiday Deals
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Aspen Prime Medspa, located at 74 Hudson Street in Hoboken, launched its holiday deals this week at its medspa (in the former Spa Diner location) — from discounts on all services and products to gift card promotions. This local Hoboken medspa provides full-service, anti-aging treatments like Botox + fillers, facials, body + face sculpting, laser hair removal, and other services. Click here for more.
Hoboken Celebrates Frank Sinatra’s Birthday on 12/12
When most people think about Hoboken, they think of Ol’ Blue Eyes: Frank Sinatra. All over the Mile Square, tributes pay homage to this musical and historical legend, as Hoboken was his birthplace and where he found his fame. Thanks to the Hoboken Historical Museum, there’s a historic, self-guided Frank Sinatra walking tour around Hoboken to see all of the significant locations that played a huge role in shaping him into the man he was. Click here for more.
Hoboken Bookstore Hosts Bob Dylan-Inspired Concert Ahead of Feature in Biopic
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The quaint streets of Hoboken and Jersey City have served as backdrops for several major filming projects recently. This year alone, we’ve had dozens of celebrity sightings in town, including Gen Z’s ultimate crush, Timothée Chalamet who spent time in the area while shooting A Complete Unknown, a biopic about iconic musician, Bob Dylan. If you’ve seen the trailer for the upcoming film, chances are locals can spot a few familiar storefronts, including Little City Books which hosted a musical event on December 12th titled Little City Dylan in honor of its inclusion in the film. Click here for more.
Updates on Drone Sightings in New Jersey
For several weeks, New Jersey residents have taken to social media to express concerns about multiple low-flying, car-sized drones floating above their surrounding areas. The mysterious sight has drawn a great deal of attention to the matter, with New Jerseyans looking for answers. Click here for more.
Jersey City’s One Jones Park Receives $38 Million in Financing for Construction
A multi-family project under construction near Enos Jones Park is on track to wrap up work next year. Per Jersey Digs, BHI, the U.S Branch of Bank Hapoalim, recently announced that it has provided $38.7 million in financing to EPIRE towards the construction of One Jones Park. Located at 387 8th Street in Jersey City, the complex will rise nine stories and feature 75 residential units plus ground and second floor retail.
NJ Transit CEO Resigns to Accept University Position
NJ Transit’s president and CEO announced his resignation on December 9th, effective next month, to take a university job. Per NJ.com, Kevin Corbett informed Governor Phil Murphy and employees that his resignation is effective January 15th. He was appointed as CEO on February 14, 2018 after being nominated by Murphy in January.
Jersey City Student Wins 35th Annual PATH Holiday Poster Contest
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Jersey City students once again shined with their talents in the 35th annual PATH “Peace on Earth” holiday poster contest. After reviewing more than 300 entries from schools across the city, judges selected winners in three age groups and crowned one grand-prize winner whose artwork will brighten the daily commute for PATH riders. The top honor went to Veronika Charlton, a seventh-grader from P.S. 37. Her creative illustration of various animals riding the PATH train celebrates Jersey City’s diversity, earning her the grand prize.
Jersey City Man Pleads Guilty to 2021 Robberies and Shootings
A Jersey City man is facing a potential life sentence after pleading guilty in connection with a one-night crime spree involving robberies and shootings. Per the Jersey City Times, Rodney Williams, 32, is accused of robbing two stores, one gas station and one restaurant, all in just over one hour, on the evening of November 14, 2021. Rodney and a co-conspirator, Siobhan Chandler, a Newark woman who was 19 at the time of the robberies, were arrested later that night after striking a police car while trying to flee law enforcement. Rodney could be sentenced to life in prison and ordered to pay up to $250,000 for each count. He’s scheduled to be sentenced on April 23, 2025.
Hudson Pride Center to Host Grand Opening of New Union City Location
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Hudson Pride Center announced the grand opening of its second location at 4428-30 Bergenline Avenue in Union City. The event will take place on December 16th from 12PM-7PM and will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony and an open house for the community to tour the new facility and learn more about the services offered. This new center will expand accessibility and support for the LGBTQ+ community in northern Hudson County. Click here for more.
Former Hoboken Director of Health and Human Services Pleads Guilty to Embezzlement, Filing False Tax Return
The United States Attorney’s office announced Thursday, December 12th that Leo Pellegrini, the former Hoboken Director of Health and Human Services and Director of the Department of Environmental Services, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Michael E. Farbiarz in Newark federal court to embezzling money from the City of Hoboken and filing a false tax return. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: While working for the City of Hoboken, Pellegrini embezzled money from the City of Hoboken by diverting payments intended for the City of Hoboken to bank accounts he controlled. Pellegrini also embezzled money from the City of Hoboken by submitting invoices for his personal business expenses, which City of Hoboken unknowingly paid. Additionally, Pellegrini did not report the embezzled money on his personal tax returns, and thereby made and subscribed a false personal tax return.
Jersey City Man Arrested for Carrying Loaded Handgun During Traffic Stop in Bayonne
A Jersey City man was busted with a loaded semi-automatic, fully loaded 9 millimeter handgun during a Bayonne traffic stop on December 6th. Per the Hudson County View, Justin Webb, 29, of Jersey City, was arrested at approximately 11:29PM in the area of 55th Street and Broadway. Officers observed a vehicle committing traffic violations and conducted a motor vehicle stop. Justin was identified as the passenger of the vehicle, and was observed attempting to conceal an item as the officers initiated the stop. He was charged accordingly and additionally processed on an open warrant issued out of Jersey City Municipal Court. He was subsequently transported to the Hudson County Correctional Facility.
Governor Phil Murphy Signs Law to Protect New Jersey from Book Bans
Taking a stand in the national debate on banning sexually explicit books from school libraries, Gov. Phil Murphy signed a law on December 9th that will dictate how school boards in New Jersey will evaluate sensitive and controversial materials and protect librarians from legal challenges. Per NJ.com, there were 14 attempts to restrict access to 28 book titles in New Jersey last year, according to the American Library Association. The books selected for challenge are most often centered on race and LGBTQ themes. Parents may still request that a book or other media be removed from a school library. But the “Freedom to Read Act,” requires the state Commissioner of Education to create policy that would dictate how library materials are selected and how challenges would be evaluated.
Red Bull Arena in Harrison Announces Name Change to ‘Sports Illustrated Stadium’
Photo Credit: NJ/NY Gotham FC
Red Bull Arena, the 25,000-person sports venue in Harrison, New Jersey, is taking on a new name. The stadium will soon be known as Sports Illustrated Stadium as part of a 13-year contract between the New York Red Bulls and Sports Illustrated. The stadium will remain home to the New York Red Bulls and NJ/NY Gotham FC. Click here for more.
Jersey City Welcomes 23 New Firefighters and Promotes 11 to Leadership Positions
Mayor Fulop and the city council announced on December 10th the swearing-in of 23 new graduates to the Jersey City Fire Department. Per a City of Jersey City press release, the ceremony also included the promotion of 11 distinguished firefighters to leadership positions. The new recruits have successfully completed rigorous training and are prepared to respond to a wide range of emergencies, from structural fires to medical emergencies.
Jersey City’s Ward A Parks to Display Holiday Lights as Part of Upgrade Plan
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Jersey City’s Ward A parks are illuminated with holiday lights as part of an ongoing upgrade plan. Ward A Councilwoman Denise Ridley said in a statement that the city is rolling out two lamp post lights in each Ward A park as a trial run this year, in hopes to be able to do more next year. The councilwoman is hosting her yearly Toy Drive at Brightside Tavern, 121 Bright Street, on December 19th at 6PM. Additionally, the Annual Toy Distribution will be held on December 23rd at 6PM at a location to be announced.
Fluffy Fluffy, a Soufflé Dessert Café, to Open at Newport Centre Mall
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Fluffy Fluffy, a café known for its soufflé pancakes and a variety of savory delights, is excited to bring their cloud-like creations to Jersey City at Newport Centre Mall. With an expected soft opening of mid-December of this year with a grand opening to follow in early 2025, this location marks the first grab and go extension of Fluffy Fluffy Dessert Café. The exclusive menu will include Katsu Sando and soft serve ice cream with pancakes. The brand is bringing more surprises to its guests during the grand opening, including free drinks, desserts, exclusive merchandise, and more.
Five New Jersey City Police Recruits to Strengthen Public Safety
Mayor Fulop announced on December 11th that five police recruits were sworn in as the newest members of the Jersey City Police Department during a ceremony inside City Hall Council Chambers. Per a City of Jersey City press release, the new police officers are joining the police department one week after Mayor Fulop and Public Safety Director James Shea announced record-breaking progress in combating crime, with Jersey City achieving the lowest homicide rate in its history.
NJCU Interim President Receives 18-Month Extension Following Unanimous Vote
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The New Jersey City University Board of Trustees voted unanimously (7-0) for an 18-month extension for Interim President Andrés Acebo at a meeting on December 9th. Per the Hudson County View, Andrés, who has served as interim president since being appointed to a two-year term on January 17th, 2023, will now serve in the post through June 30th, 2026, with an option for a one-year renewal through June 30th, 2027. Andrés has helped orchestrate four major strategic initiatives: the release of the NJCU Recovery and Revitalization Plan (April 2023), introduction of the university’s first Academic Master Plan (February 2024) and the institution’s first Strategic Enrollment Plan (April 2023). Also just this month, NJCU unveiled its first-ever Student Development and Community Engagement Strategic Plan.
The Best Spots to Get Gel Manicures in Hoboken
Getting a gel manicure is a regular occurrence for many people. Hoboken’s numerous nail salons make getting a gel manicure convenient while providing a variety of colors, pricing, and services. To help with what some residents call an overwhelming choice, we’ve rounded up all the places to get a gel manicure and some details about each location. Read on to learn more about where to get a gel manicure in Hoboken, New Jersey.
718 Beauty Bar | 718 Washington Street, Hoboken
718 Beauty Bar is a luxury nail and beauty salon in the heart of Hoboken. This is a by-appointment-only salon, so be sure to check out the site here to schedule a time. A basic gel manicure is $35 and there are options to add designs for an additional cost. To learn more about 718 Beauty’s services, click here.
As U Wish Nail + Lash Spa | 319 Willow Avenue, Hoboken
Skyy Hadley, owner of As U Wish Nail + Lash Spa, has been in the business for nearly three decades. Her work has been recognized by celebrities and notable publications such as Glamour, InStyle, and Vogue. Her salon calls Hoboken home and its services are available by appointment. A Shellac/gel manicure is $40 and appointments can be booked here. To learn more about As U Wish Nail + Lash Spa, click here.
Read More: Is Hoboken the Beauty Capital of New Jersey?
Bloom Spa | 402 Washington Street, Hoboken
Bloom Spa is located at 402 Washington Street in Downtown Hoboken. The salon has a variety of services, including waxing, pedicures, and massages, but the business’s specialty is its nail services. A gel manicure at Bloom Spa is $45. Walk-ins are accepted, or customers can call the store to schedule an appointment at 201-222-8600.
Dream Nails + Spa | 601 Observer Highway, Hoboken
Dream Nails + Spa has some of the highest Google reviews of all Hoboken nail salons, many of which note the space's cleanliness and the staff's friendliness. Color gel manicures start at $35 at Dream Nails + Spa. To get in touch with the salon to schedule an appointment, call the salon at 201-238-2454 or email [email protected].
Gotham Nails | 515 4th Street, Hoboken
Gotham Nails has been in Hoboken for over two decades. The salon boasts high-quality equipment, skilled technicians, and a relaxing atmosphere on its website. Gel manicures are $40 Gotham Nails, and appointments can be booked by calling the salon at 201-656-6060. To learn more about the salon and its services, click here.
Modern Nails | 728 Washington Street, Hoboken
Modern Nails is arguably one of the most popular nail salons in Hoboken, with many locals still remembering Kim Kardashian's visit more than a decade ago. Gel manicures at Modern Nails start at $38, and designs can be added at an additional cost. Walk-ins are welcome, but given the popularity, appointments are suggested to avoid long wait times. To schedule an appointment, call 201-533-3500.
Nail Atelier | 168 1st Street, Hoboken
Nail Atelier is a hidden gem in Hoboken. This salon provides waxing and pedicures in addition to nail services. Gel manicures are $45, and appointments are highly encouraged. To book an appointment, call 201-222-5044.
The Nail Bar | 501 9th Street, Hoboken
The Nail Bar has been in Hoboken for 20 years. The salon is known for its hospital-grade sanitization efforts and high-end equipment and was even the 2022 winner of The Hoboken Girl’s Best in Hoboken awards. Color gel manicures start at $43. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged. To make an appointment, call 201-459-1555.
Nailed It | 318 Madison Street, Hoboken
Nailed It is all about, well, nails. The technicians at the salon specialize specifically in manicures and pedicures. Gel manicures are $45, and appointments are necessary. To book an appointment and to check out all of Nailed It’s services, click here.
The Nail Story | 101 Clinton Street, Hoboken
The Nail Story is known for its nail art and fancy designs. This Clinton Street salon has one-hour gel manicure appointments for $40. The salon asks that customers note that nail art is wanted in the appointment memo. To book an appointment and to learn more, click here.
Pure Nail | 1315 Washington Street, Hoboken
Since opening in 2021, Pure Nails has become a Hoboken favorite. A gel manicure costs $37. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are always best. To learn about the other services and to schedule an appointment, call 201-253-0062.
Shining Nails | 1201 Adams Street, Hoboken
Shining Nails, located at 1201 Adams Street, is a full-service nail salon. One look at the business’s Instagram page and gel manicures for nails short and long are in nearly every photo. Many customers rave about the friendly staff in the reviews and the nail art here. Gel manicures are $40 each. Shining Nails does accept walk-ins, but will also take appointments. To learn more about the services at Shining Nails, click here.
Show Nails | 804 Washington Street, Hoboken
Show Nails has many services including the very popular scalp hydrotherapy but is most known for its nail services. Gel manicures here are $40. Walk-ins are welcome, but this location is becoming more popular, so an appointment is recommended. Click here to learn more about the services and schedule an appointment.
Soho Nails | 1216 Washington Street, Hoboken
Soho Nails is nestled in uptown Hoboken. This location is great for a quick manicure before or after meeting friends at any of the popular eateries in the area. Gel manicures here are $40. Walk-ins are welcome, but customers are encouraged to call 201-222-9051.
Tutti Nails + Spa | 1119 Hudson Street, Hoboken
Tutti Nails is an uptown favorite. The establishment is extremely spacious and has a luxury spa feel at more affordable prices. A gel manicure here is $45. many of the reviews online speak highly of the timeliness, friendliness, and cleanliness of the location.
Read More: A Trip to Aura Head Spa in Montclair, New Jersey
Unique Nail | 400 Newark Street, Hoboken
Unique Nails is located at 400 Newark Street in Hoboken. This location provides a nail oasis for residents in downtown Hoboken. Gel manicures here are $40. Walk-ins are welcome or, to schedule an appointment, call 201-386-0800.
Zenisalon | 1401 Hudson Street, Hoboken
Zenisalon is a small nail salon in Uptown Hoboken. The gel manicures here are $40.00 and, according to online reviews, are great for those who may be in a rush as the technicians seem to work very quickly. Walk-ins are welcome, but an appointment is highly encouraged. To book an appointment, call 201-942-9100.
