If you had a whirlwind week and couldn’t pause to catch local news, here’s what you missed in Hoboken + Jersey City. Among the local headlines: a new flower + coffee shop is coming to Jersey City; Sticky’s Finger Joint hosted its grand opening in Hoboken; fundraisers have been organized for families displaced in a four-alarm house fire in North Bergen, and so much more. Keep reading for all the news you missed this week in Hoboken, Jersey City + beyond.
Local Pet Sitting Business Hosting Fundraiser for Animals Displaced in Ukraine
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Local pet sitting business, Happy Tails Loving Care is calling on the community to help support pets who have been displaced in Ukraine. The Instagram post reads, “Since the invasion of Ukraine, many people have been forced to leave their pets behind. Several wonderful groups of people have made it their mission to save as many animals as they possibly can and many Ukrainian pet care workers have stayed behind, risking their lives, to stay with the animals under their care. Happy Tails Loving Care has partnered with a group of brave souls in Przemyśl, Poland, on the Ukrainian border, to provide supplies and funds for the group to go into Ukraine and gather animals to bring back to Poland.” A full list of needed supplies can be found on the Instagram post.
Scram Bakery in Jersey City Debuts New Interior
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Scram Bakery, located at 61 Erie Street in Jersey City officially debuted a refreshed interior on Instagram this week. The menu features breakfast buns + puffs that can pair eggs and ham, bacon, sausage, or fontina.
City of Hoboken Announces 2022 Resurfacing Program
According to a press release, over 80 blocks in Hoboken are scheduled to be repaved incorporating Vision Zero safety improvements during 2022. These upgrades will include various Vision Zero and complete streets safety improvements including high-visibility crosswalks, curb extensions, ADA-compliant
Novick Hardware Celebrates 100 Years in Business
Novick Hardware, located at 302 Central Avenue in Jersey City, will celebrate 100 Years in business this coming month with a celebration on Friday, April 22nd. According to a press release, the community is invited to attend the celebration hosted by The Central Avenue Special Improvement District and attended by Mayor Steven Fulop and Councilman Yousef Saleh.
City of Hoboken Launches Program to Aid Ukrainian Refugees in Poland
Today the @CityofHoboken launched “Rent For Refugees,” a campaign to provide housing for Ukrainian refugees living in our adopted sister city Białystok, Poland. Our goal is to raise $27,000 or the cost of rent for 6 months for 10 furnished apartments. https://t.co/XwZktyU8Iw pic.twitter.com/EsTGVJKpEv
— Rachel Hodes (@RachelHodes) March 11, 2022
The City of Hoboken has launched a new program called “Rent For Refugees” in an effort to help Ukrainian refugees in Poland. According to a Tweet the goal is to raise $27K to furnish 10 apartments and pay for 6 months’ rent.
New Digital Pharmacy Opens in Downtown Jersey City
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A new digital pharmacy, Medly, has opened at 152 Newark Avenue in downtown Jersey City, per Patch. Medly Pharmacy provides same-day delivery and holistic supplements. As of March 16th customers can also receive PCR and rapid antigen COVID-19 testing at this location.
Madewell is Coming to Hoboken, Here’s What We Know
Add Madewell to the list of new retail outlets coming to Hudson County. With stores all over the United States, this nationally known apparel brand is settling down in its sixth New Jersey location. The chain will be taking over the former Mattress Firm location on Washington Street. Click here to read about Madewell expanding to a storefront in Hoboken.
New Burger Restaurant, Speedy’s Jersey City, Opens in Paulus Hook
A new burger joint has opened in the Paulus Hook neighborhood. Speedy’s JC now occupies the space at 84.5 Morris Street, Jersey City, that was once home to Paulus Hook Brick Oven Pizza. Click here to read about Speedy’s JC and what to expect when you visit.
There’s A New Wawa Location Coming to Hudson County
For those who “gotta have a Wawa,” it’s about to become a lot easier. In recent years, the upscale convenience store that offers all kinds of food, coffee drinks, fuel, and more has expanded from the Jersey Shore to all over the state. The good news for Hudson County is that there’s a new Wawa coming later this spring to North Bergen, where it will be located at 7408 Tonnelle Avenue. Click here to read about the expansion and all of the details.
Main Street Pops Market Opens for the Season
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The Main Street Pops artisan market is now open under the 14th Street viaduct in Hoboken as of today, Sunday, March 13th. The market is open 11AM to 4PM and features art and handmade products from makers throughout the local area.
Bluemercury Hoboken Signage Emerges at Former Hoboken Bar & Grill
Photo credit: Rosalia Fiske
Since 2017, the beauty and cosmetics retailer Bluemercury has been trying to get into the Hoboken retail scene. Finally, plans have been announced for the shop’s arrival at 230 Washington Street, in the old Hoboken Bar & Grill space. Signage went up this week on the storefront. Click here for what we know.
Arthur’s Tavern to Hold Auction Following Closure
Photo credit: Google Maps
Arthur’s Tavern, previously open at 237 Washington Street in Hoboken, is auctioning off furniture, lights, glasses, and more in a virtual and in-person auction. According to Patch, the owners have said they might return one day but gave no timeline. For now, the action items can be viewed here.
Former Hoboken Police Chief Named Public Safety Director
(Photo credit: City of Hoboken)
Former Hoboken Police Chief and lifelong resident Ken Ferrante will head the City of Hoboken’s Public Safety Department as the new Public Safety Director, according to a press release. Mr. Ferrante will oversee the Hoboken Police Department, Fire Department, and Office of Emergency Management (OEM).
New Flower + Coffee Shop to Open in Jersey City
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A new flower + coffee shop is coming to the retail space at 413 Central Avenue in Jersey City. The new business, Flor y Cafe announced, “Come and join us Sunday, March 13th for some Music, Food, Flowers and Coffee to Celebrate the opening of Flor Y Cafe. We look forward to serving Jersey City and the Heights Neighbor Beauty, Love, and Joy. We are a family-owned Flower Shop Cafe where you will find One of a Kind 💐 , Artisan Coffee from Puerto Rico and experience so much more!”
Concert to Benefit Businesses Damaged in Chambord Place Fire
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The Pulse with Peter B and Pilsener Haus Biergarten are hosting a benefit concert on Saturday, March 26 for the businesses destroyed by the Chambord building fire. According to a press release, the event will take place 7PM to 11PM and tickets can be purchased here for $50. Proceeds will be donated to the Hoboken Relief Fund.
Owner of Sweat Sauna in Jersey City Featured on Jumbo Screen in Prudential Center
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The family-owned business Sweat Sauna Studio, located at 172 Newark Avenue in Jersey City, was featured on the jumbo screen at the Prudential Center this week. The business shared a few thoughts via Instagram saying, “Finally. That’s the first word that comes to mind when describing last night. Seeing my team, my family, and my daughter in a fancy suite and our faces, our business, and our story is shown to over 10k people. It’s incredible, it’s magical but it’s about time!”
Fundraisers Organized Following 4-Alarm Fire in North Bergen
Following a four-alarm North Bergen fire on 9th Street that left many homes damaged and displaced dozens of families, the community is rallying to support those who have been impacted. Four GoFundMe accounts have been set up including Jackson Bravo, Scott Henriquez, the Maldonado + Navas Family, and Carmen Ortiz.
Hudson County Latino Foundation Collection Donations for Ukraine
The Immigration Assistance Program at the Hudson County Latino Foundation has launched a humanitarian relief drive for Ukraine, collecting essential medical, first-aid, and hygiene items to be distributed by the Ukrainian Orthodox Holy Ascension Parish in Clifton. Donations are accepted at two drop-off locations: the office in Jersey City at 97 Newkirk Street and the offices of Jadoo & Zalenski at 100 South Van Brunt Street in Englewood.
Love Lawn Ranks Jersey City #6 on List of Best Cities for Outdoor Weddings
Love Lawn compared over 190 cities to find the best spots for outdoor weddings and Jersey City came in sixth place. Close behind four locations in California and one city in Louisiana, Jersey City ranked sixth overall and first for professional services available.
NYC’s Il Laboratorio del Gelato Expanding to Hoboken
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NYC-based gelato spot il laboratoria del gelato is expanding across the Hudson River to settle a new location at 500 Washington Street. According to Jersey Digs, the shop rotates through a collection of 300 flavors made in-house.
Jersey City Bar Raises $5K for Medical Supplies in Ukraine
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Pint, a Jersey City gay bar, raised $5,000 to buy medical supplies for Ukraine. By the end of the one-night-only fundraiser, customers donated $1,700, and Pint matched the donations as well as added the profits from the night for a total of $5,000.
Jersey City Council to Vote on New Salary Transparency Policy
In an effort to level the playing field for women in the workforce, the Jersey City Council is voting on an ordinance amendment that would require employers to be more transparent about salaries in job postings. According to NJ.com, the new policy would require job listings to include a minimum and maximum salary and/or hourly wage and benefits to any job posting.
SPEAR Physical Therapy to Open in Hoboken
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A new physical therapy practice is coming to Hoboken. SPEAR Physical Therapy shared, “SPEAR is crossing over to New Jersey! Our first in the state, SPEAR Hoboken will allow us to reach more people in the tri-state area than ever before. Located at 111 Washington Street, right near the Hoboken/Jersey City border, this brand-new clinic is in a prime location. ”
Roig Collection to Relocate from The W Hoboken Gallery Back to First Street Studio
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Hoboken resident + artist, Ricardo Roig shared a new development this week via Instagram. The post says, “Join us as we celebrate the end of our 4-year run and the beginning of a new start on April 7th 6-8PM @ Roig Collection W Hoboken Art Gallery! All are welcome! & our event is on Eventbrite for more information. After a wonder-filled 4 years exhibiting original local Art @ The W Hoboken Artists in Residence Gallery we will be moving our Art Gallery back to 252 First Street where it all started for us. The W Hoboken has a fantastic surprise planned in the space with an upcoming renovation to introduce a new concept for the community & we are so excited for it!”
The Inner Athlete to Open New Location in Edgewater
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The Inner Athlete, located in the Monroe Center at 720 Monroe Street, Suite C409, in Hoboken is expanding. The new location will open on Monday, April 4th in Edgewater, and the same child-centered sports activities and classes are planned for the new space.
Sticky’s Finger Joint Hosts Grand Opening in Hoboken
Sticky’s Finger Joint, a wildly popular New York-based fried chicken restaurant, has officially opened at 112 Washington Street in Hoboken — in the former Cluck-U spot. Click here to learn more about what to expect.
The Annual Hoboken Mac + Cheese Festival is Back
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Hoboken Happy Hours and Party With Purpose have teamed up for the 3rd Annual Hoboken Mac & Cheese Festival. This year’s Mac & Cheese Fest will be in the form of a food crawl: think bar crawl, but for restaurants instead. Click here for all the details of this year’s Mac & Cheese Fest.
An Update on Hoboken’s Introduction of Retail Canna-businesses
Since we last updated readers on the process of integrating retail cannabis businesses into Hoboken, there have been several updates and even a proposed change in policy. The first public hearing of the Cannabis Review Board drew dozens of virtual attendees and generated conversations all over town and on social media. Click here for the latest on retail cannabis in Hoboken.
GLOSSLAB’s Hoboken Location To Take Over Former Max Challenge Space
GLOSSLAB is coming to NJ, and Hoboken will be home to its very first location. The membership-based nail studio will open at 537 Washington Street in the former space of The Max Challenge. Founded by Rachel Apfel, GLOSSLAB has become a hotspot for many people on the go and in need of a quick manicure. Even celebrities have taken a liking to the nail salon that uses a waterless concept. Click here to read about GLOSSLAB coming soon to Hoboken.
New Jersey City Heights Food Tour Just Debuted
For local foodies and adventurers alike, Alessia of Beyond the Plate Food Tours has thought of just the thing to marry those two characteristics together: a one-of-a-kind food tour of the Jersey City Heights. Not only is this the only food tour company operating in the area, but it is also one of two based in Jersey City, the other being the downtown tour. What makes this tour special is that all six stops highlight a restaurant that specializes in a different culture and cuisine. The stops are a carefully-curated mixture of longstanding restaurants and new kids on the block – so even longtime Jersey City residents stand to experience something new. Click here for all the details about the exciting Beyond the Plate Food Tour – Taste of the Heights.
Zeppelin Hall Reopens March 12th in Jersey City
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Zeppelin Hall reopened for the spring season as of Saturday, March 12th. The Zeppelin Hall Instagram account shared, “Celtic Festival is on from 3/12 to 3/20 with a separate Irish menu in addition to our regular menu. 🔥🔥DJs Fridays & Saturdays at 9:30 and the party goes way past midnight!..🥨 Get together with all of your friends and stay as long as you want, we don’t “turn tables” at the Biergarten. 🌳🌳Free Parking at the end of Jersey Avenue, follow the signs! Open Thursdays through Sundays. AND YES, WE SERVE WINE AND COCKTAILS TOO!”
Former JC Department of Recreation Payroll Clerk Sentenced to Prison
A former Jersey City Department of Recreation payroll clerk was sentenced to three years in prison on Friday, March 4th, per NJ.com. She was arrested for pilfering $80,000 by fraudulently inflating payroll hours for both relatives and associates. Angela Rivera must also pay full restitution to the city and she will be permanently banned from public employment.
Hoboken Police Department Promotes Four Officers
Hoboken police have recently celebrated the promotions of four officers during a ceremony at City Hall, reported Tap Into. According to the department, one Lieutenant was promoted to the rank of Captain, one Sergeant was promoted to Lieutenant, and two officers were promoted to Sergeants. These promotions come two days after Hoboken Police Captian Steven Aguiar officially took over as the new Acting Chief of the department.
Hoboken Public Library To Lift Mask Mandate
The Hoboken Library plans to lift its mask mandate on Monday, March 7th, per Tap Into. The exception to masking up would come when there is an in-house event where social distancing could not be observed. Hoboken is not the only city to make masks optional in Hudson County following declining numbers of coronavirus cases in Hudson County.
Polish Deli Launches Collection Drive to Support Ukraine
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Marta Chybowska and her mother Jolanta are starting to collect supplies for Ukraine from Jola Polish Deli, per Tap Into. They are still early in their collection efforts and they have not yet received a precise list of the items needed, so they are currently focusing on collecting medical supplies. A number of local schools will also be collecting items once the store gets a list of supplies needed.
Gas Prices on the Rise in New Jersey
Garden State gas prices have hit a record average this week as prices hit $4.17 and have raised 52 cents per gallon in the last week, per Patch. The reason for the gas prices rising is being attributed to supply crunches that began in the pandemic now being exacerbated due to the financial fallout of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. New Jersey Gas prices will offer a link to the lowest gas prices by city.
101-Unit Development Heads to Jersey City Planning Board
A large vacant parcel could soon be revitalized into a modern apartment complex, per Jersey Digs. The vacant parcel of land is located near McGinley Square, Jersey City, and a Secaucus-based company named Cobalt Homes has submitted an application to transfer the lot into an apartment complex. The company plans to build an eight-story development which would include 101 residential units and 34 parking spaces in a garage.
Investors Claim Looting at New Jersey Medical Marijuana Dispensary
According to a lawsuit filed by investor-owners, the board president of a medical marijuana dispensary in Hudson County should be removed from his position, per NJ.com. He reportedly plunged the non-profit into $30 million in debt and diverted funds into a cannabis business located in Israel. The medical marijuana dispensary Foundation Harmony’s attorney have called the allegations baseless.
Hoboken Rescinds its COVID-19 State of Emergency
Nearly two years after it was imposed, Hoboken’s State of Emergency put in place for the coronavirus pandemic was lifted Monday, per NJ.com. The order was rescinded by Office of Emergency Management Coordinator Sgt. William Montanez and he cited the sharp decline in COVID-19 cases and the high vaccination rate among citizens as the reason this order is being rescinded. The state also lifted the COVID-19 public health emergency on Monday, and it was also the first day that masks were not required by the state mandate to be worn in schools.
Jersey City Teen Charged With Loaded Gun After Dispute
A Jersey City teen was arrested with a loaded gun after a violent incident on Sunday afternoon, per NJ.com. Sayier J. Price has been charged with unlawful possession of a handgun, possession of a handgun for an unlawful purpose, possession of prohibited bullets, and obstructing a governmental function, after an incident on March 6th. Another person is also being sought after the violent incident that broke out.
LeFrak Scales Down From Five to Four High-Rise Towers in Jersey City
A developer is looking to present a scaled-back version of a project meant to sit on the Jersey City waterfront, per NJ.com. The Jersey City planning board will decide if four residential high rises will be able to be built in a special meeting on Tuesday, March 15th. The original project called for five residential buildings to be built, but was lowered down to four following residents in a neighboring tower calling for the projects to be more “community-friendly.”
Hoboken’s Mile Square Theatre Introduces New Artistic Director
Tune in and meet the new face of MST! https://t.co/ZGXJs8u1fn
— Mile Square Theatre (@MileSquareThtr) March 7, 2022
Mile Square Theatre has a new artistic director. According to this Twitter post, Kevin R. Free is the new artistic director of the Mile Square Theatre. He is the newest face of MST.
Hoboken Community Center Presents ‘Taste of Hoboken’ Event
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Hoboken Community Center has announced the return of Taste of Hoboken, according to a press release. Taste of Hoboken will be presented on June 7th from 6-9PM and it will be hosted on the Hoboken waterfront. It will feature local restaurants, drinks, live entertainment, and a silent auction to benefit the Hoboken Community Center as well as the Hoboken Food Pantry.
Hudson County Residents Can Receive Help With Utility Bills Before March 15th
There are multiple assistance programs available to those who need help with paying their utility bills. According to a press release, the moratorium on utility shutoffs ends on March 15th. Residents can find out about the multiple assistance programs available by visiting the DCAid Service Portal here.
Hoboken Public Library to Honor Women in Staged Reading
The Hoboken Public Library will present a staged reading titled “Leading Ladies” in honor of Women’s History Month. According to a press release, “Leading Ladies,” is a series of scenes from plays that feature strong women. The staged reading will take place on Saturday, March 19th at 2PM in the lower level of the Large Programming Room.
Jersey City Begins its Second Annual Restaurant Week
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Mayor Fulop has joined restaurant owners and the Jersey City Restaurant Association to help launch the city’s Second Annual Restaurant Week. According to a press release, this is to create a platform that showcases eateries around the city to help stimulate business in the post-pandemic time. The two-week event will take place from Monday, March 7th through Sunday, March 20th. Click here to learn more about the event.
Three Buildings Damaged in Multi-Alarm Fire in Jersey City
A multi-alarm fire in Jersey City damaged three buildings on the afternoon of Monday, March 7th, per NJ.com. Firefighters had to use multiple hose lines to douse the flames. Volunteers from the Red Cross New Jersey were able to help 15 people from six families with temporary lodging, food, and clothing.
Jersey City Council to Vote on $430K Purchase
Jersey City is expected to spend nearly half a million dollars on a piece of equipment that would be utilized in another mass shooting attack, per NJ.com. The City Council will vote on the resolution on Wednesday to approve the purchase of the vehicle. The vehicle is known as “The Rook,” and is an “armored critical incident vehicle” which was created to address acts of domestic terrorism.
Hoboken Cops Surprise Boy With New Scooter After His Was Reported Stolen
Two Hoboken police officers have surprised a boy with a brand new scooter after his was reported as stolen, per Tap Into. A resident of Hoboken named Dena Buonarota Russell made a social media post where she wrote that officers Marc Lombardi and Nick Protopapadakis helped save the day for her son, Ryan. The officers drove him home and took his statement and informed his mother that they ordered a scooter for him.
West New York Man Faces Charges Following Altercation
A 31-year-old West New York man is facing police charges after he threatened to shoot a group of men in a parking garage in Hoboken, per Tap Into. Harrison Vargas was arrested and charged with terroristic threats, aggravated assault, and obstructing the administration of law following the incident. He was released on a summons, according to the police.
