It’s been another busy week here in Hudson County with plenty of news to catch up on this Memorial Day Weekend. Among the news highlights: plans were announced for Liberty State Park; two beloved members of the Hoboken and Jersey City communities pass away suddenly; a new sushi spot opens in Hoboken; and Jersey City Heights is getting a new bakery. Read on for more about news for the week ending May 26th, 2023 in Hudson County.
Taste of Hoboken to Benefit the Hoboken Community Center
View this post on Instagram
The Hoboken Community Center (HCC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides essential services and spaces to support the well-being of the Hoboken, NJ community, announced the line-up for its annual fundraiser Taste of Hoboken taking place at Maxwell Place Park on June 6 from 6PM-9PM, according to a press release from the organization.
More than 25 local restaurants will provide guests with samples of their signature dishes, including Alessio’s, Anthony David’s, Antique Bar and Bakery, Baking Mama, Barbès, Bin 14, Brooklyn Dumpling Shop, Do Good Donuts, Double Dough, Fat Taco Tequila Bar, Fruiti Fi, GTK, Halifax, Hoboken Farms, Il Tavolo di Palmisano, Karma Kafe, La Boheme, Leo’s Grandevous, The Madison Bar & Grill, Merry Hot Cocoa, Montebello Bakery, Moo Jersey, Orale, Panela, Plaka Souvlaki, The Shepherd & The Knucklehead, Tony Boloney’s, and more to be announced.
Taste of Hoboken has been held for more than twenty years in support of the HCC’s programs, such as the Pantry which supports more than 2,400 residents and families. This event will help to feed, house and provide support to those in need in our community. Tickets are on sale now at hobokencc.org/toh. The event is 21 and over.
Beloved Robert Hoff of Il Tavolo di Palmisano Passes Away
View this post on Instagram
On Saturday, May 27, Hoboken restaurant Il Tavolo di Palmisano posted on Instagram that its manager, Robert Hoff, 65, had passed away suddenly. “It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we inform you of the death of our dear friend and brother Robert Hoff. Robert has left an indelible mark on our hearts, and in our lives. He will be remembered always, as the most caring, the most giving, and the most patient man we have ever had the pleasure of knowing. Please pray for his family. We are all devastated.”
Avocado Sushi is Now Open in Hoboken
The newest sushi restaurant on the block, Avocado Sushi, is reportedly open in Hoboken as of this weekend. The new spot is located at 404 Washington Street in the former Via Mode location. Learn more here.
Hoboken Police to Participate in “Click it or Ticket” Campaign
The Hoboken Police Department will join police departments from across the state and country in the national “Click It or Ticket” campaign. The mobilization, which involves 125 hours of proactive traffic enforcement within the city of Hoboken, will run from Monday, May 22 through Sunday, June 4, according to a press release from the department.
During the campaign, which coincides with Memorial Day Weekend and the start of the busy summer travel season, Hoboken officers will operate roving patrols targeting, and ticketing, unbuckled drivers and passengers, as well as looking for other traffic violations. The Police Department will also be utilizing signage and other publicity efforts to reiterate the life-saving value of seat belts.
The State of New Jersey requires all drivers and passengers who are at least 8 years old, or at least 57 inches tall to wear a seatbelt. All others must be buckled into the proper car seat. The law holds the driver responsible for proper seat belt use by all occupants under 18. Violators face monetary fines.
Hoboken’s 2022 Click it or Ticket campaign resulted in 82 summonses, 29 of which were for seatbelt-related violations. Statewide, the two-week campaign resulted in 8,373 seat belt citations, 3,315 speeding summonses and 278 impaired driving arrests.
The Hoboken Public Safety Department and Police Department would like to thank New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin for approving and funding the City’s participation in this year’s enforcement campaign with an $8,750 grant.
New Restaurant, Bettie’s, to Open in Jersey City This June
View this post on Instagram
A new restaurant serving up Haitian, Caribbean, and Latin cuisine is opening in Jersey City on June 4th, just in time for summer dining. Bettie’s Restaurant will be at 579 West Side Avenue and will feature authentic cuisine and creative twists on traditional dishes. Keep reading to learn more about Bettie’s, a new-to-the-scene Jersey City eatery.
Prato Bakery is Open in Jersey City Heights
Back in August 2022, Prato Bakery announced that it would be opening a fourth location. After years of customers asking for a location to open in Jersey City Heights, the Prato Bakery owners granted this wish. Prato’s newest space is now open at 296 Palisade Avenue as of Wednesday, May 24th, 2023, and is the new home base for the Italian cafe’s kitchen. Read on to learn more about Prato Bakery’s expansion.
Jersey City Man Charged in South Jersey Woman’s Death
According to a press release from the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, an arrest has been made in the death of Norelis Mendoza, who went missing after dropping her daughter off at a location in Jersey City over Mother’s Day weekend. Ms. Mendoza’s body was found on May 17th, 2023 near the border of Bayonne and Jersey City. Gregory Mallard, of Jersey City, has been charged with her murder and is currently being held in Somerset County.
Longtime Jersey City Clerk Mourned
View this post on Instagram
Robert Byrne was the City Clerk for Jersey City for nearly 40 years at the time of his retirement in 2020, according to NJ.com. Robert passed away on May 19th at the age of 63. Robert was a Jersey City native and he is warmly remembered by many.
Jersey City Mayor Fulop Announces Third Child on the Way
Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop has announced his gubernatorial plans for the upcoming race, but his family recently made another announcement. According to Patch, Mayor Fulop and his wife Jaclyn are now expecting their third child. The Fulops have two children, a 4-year-old boy and a 2-year-old girl.
New Jersey Approves Proposal for ‘Cranberry Juice’ to Be the Official State Juice After Student Campaign
Students at Eleanor Rush Intermediate School scored a legislative victory this week when their 2020 proposal to make cranberry juice the official juice of New Jersey. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, the students’ campaign began when they were fourth graders as part of a lesson on state symbols. The now-sixth graders traveled to Trenton to make their pitches, and the proposal was signed by Governor Phil Murphy on Monday, May 22nd.
Influential Jersey City Developer Richard LeFrak to Step Down as CEO
View this post on Instagram
Per NJ.com, influential New Jersey developer Richard LeFrak will step away from his company, where he has been the CEO since 2003. The LeFrak company has played an influential role in Jersey City’s development and has properties throughout New York, New Jersey, Florida, and the West Coast. LeFrak’s sons plan to take over the company’s operation.
Challenger Enters Race for Hoboken’s 6th Ward City Council Spot
Hoboken resident and business owner Ian Rintel has announced his candidacy for the Hoboken City Council race. According to Patch, Ian Rintel ran in the 2021 race, and is going for the 6th Ward City Council seat, which is currently held by Jennifer Giattino. Residents can visit Ian’s campaign website for more information in advance of the November 2023 election.
Jersey City Proposal Would Limit Cannabis Dispensaries
A new proposal in front of the Jersey City Council would limit the number of cannabis dispensaries. Per NJ.com, the proposal would limit approvals to 48 businesses per ward, and would require businesses to meet certain criteria as ‘social equity’ businesses. This proposal comes as the City has enacted a moratorium on approvals of new businesses until a cap can be agreed upon.
Hoboken Resident to Challenge Incumbent for Hoboken’s 2nd Ward City Council Spot
Hoboken resident Marla Decker has entered the race for Hoboken City Council’s 2nd Ward representative. Per Patch, Marla announced her candidacy on May 15th. Incumbent Tiffanie Fisher announced her intention to run for reelection on May 12th. Residents can get more information about Marla by visiting her campaign website.
City of Hoboken Announces Pride Celebrations
Image Courtesy of the City of Hoboken
In a press release, Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla today invited Hoboken community members to celebrate LGBTQIA+ Pride Month this June with the City of Hoboken. Through a partnership with Hudson Pride Center, the Hoboken Public Library, the Hoboken Business Alliance, Bike Hoboken, and Fleet Feet, the City will host a series of family-friendly events to honor and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community.
“It is more important than ever before that we work together to welcome and celebrate our LGBTQIA+ community which continues to fight for equality in states across the country,” said Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla. “I personally invite and encourage everyone to join us as we honor our LGBTQIA+ community and reaffirm our commitment to be a fair and welcoming community.”
“We are so excited that Hoboken is taking a lead role in June Pride month for Hudson County by hosting several major pride activities this year,” said Elizabeth Schedl, Executive Director of Hudson Pride Center. “Historically, Pride has always been about human rights and empowering LGBTQ+ individuals in reclaiming their rights and freedoms as well as the public spaces that are often denied to us. The importance of visibility and support has never been greater. With over 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced in state legislatures across this country, it is clear some are going to considerable lengths to put LGBTQ+ people at the margins of society. I do, however, believe change is possible, even when homophobic and transphobic attitudes exist. And that change and support starts with cities like Hoboken, supporting, celebrating, and protecting its LGBTQ+ citizens.”
The City will kick off the festivities with an LGBTQIA+ Pride flag-raising ceremony on Thursday, June 1st, at 11AM at City Hall, 94 Washington Street. Then, on Friday, June 2nd, at 5PM, the City will host a Pride Picnic at Columbus Park, located at Ninth and Clinton Streets. Residents are invited to bring a blanket, low-back chair, and their picnic basket to dine alfresco with their friends and neighbors. Kids will also be able to enjoy a rainbow-themed craft table.
Alessio’s is Back at Pier A Park — Plus Another Location Coming Soon
Alessio’s has been a fan favorite since it opened its doors at 539 Park Avenue at the height of the pandemic lockdown. It quickly became known for its pizza, gelato, pastries, and all-around great quality products. Last year, Alessio’s had two kiosk locations at Pier A Park in Hoboken, serving up favorites from the Italian spot’s menu. This year, the one Pier A kiosk is back — and there will also be another one opening up soon in the Northwest Resiliency Park. Read on to learn more about Alessio’s and its Hoboken outposts.
10th Anniversary of the Jersey City Jazz Festival
The Jersey City Jazz Festival will celebrate its 10th anniversary at this year’s event, which begins on June 1st. Per NJ.com, the four-day event will be the largest it’s been since the pandemic. Tickets and more information is available at the festival’s website.
Memorial Day Parade in Bayonne
The City of Bayonne has announced its plans to honor the fallen. On Monday, May 29th at 10AM, the Memorial Day ceremony will be held at World War I Monument on Fifth Street. After the ceremony, a parade will march up Broadway, concluding at 32nd and Broadway.
Jersey City Approves Another Target Location
Another Target location will be coming to Jersey City, according to Jersey Digs. Plans were recently approved for a Target location at the Stadium Plaza Shopping Center at 381 Route 440. The 424,000-square-foot property used to be home to a K-Mart.
Jersey City Summer Restaurant Week Announced
View this post on Instagram
A summer version of the ever-popular Jersey City Restaurant Week has been announced for July 15th through 28th, according to Patch.
Fleet Week 2023 Kicks Off
Fleet Week 2023 will take place from May 23rd through 30th in and around the New York Harbor. According to the organizer’s website, Fleet Week is a celebration of the maritime branches of the US Armed Forces, U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Corps. This year is the 35th anniversary of the celebration. A full schedule of events is available here.
Toast Bowl Restaurant Coming to Hoboken
Toast Bowl is opening soon in Hoboken. According to Patch, the former Cucina Saporito location at 328 Washington Street will be home to Toast Bowl, which serves healthy bowls and sandwiches. Cucina Saporita closed last year after being in business since 1999.
Jersey City Approves Newark Avenue Dispensary
New dispensary Bud Space could be opening soon on Newark Avenue. According to Jersey Digs, plans for the cannabis retailer were approved by the city’s planning board. The store will be located at 270 Newark Avenue, currently a vacant lot.
Jersey City Assemblywoman Angela McKnight to Cohost Event with The Flow Initiative
View this post on Instagram
Assemblywoman Angela McKnight, representative of New Jersey’s 31st Legislative District, and The Flow Initiative – a national organization dedicated to eradicating period poverty and accelerating access to menstrual health products – announced the inaugural Red Tent event set to occur this Saturday, May 27th, 2023. Per a press release from the organization, the event will take place from 2PM to 5PM at Audubon Park located at 18 Audubon Avenue in Jersey City, NJ.
“Nationwide, the lack of menstrual health products continues to impact the most vulnerable in our communities and New Jersey is not immune to this growing issue. Access to menstrual health products and resources is essential to maintaining vibrant and thriving communities,” said Assemblywoman McKnight. “The Red Tent event creates an opportunity to educate members of our community on menstrual health, while also providing them with an update on the state’s legislative measures to pass new bills that will improve menstrual health access statewide.”
During the event, The Flow Initiative will conduct the first-ever period poverty and menstrual equity flag raising in the nation. Period poverty is defined as inadequate access to menstrual hygiene tools and education, including but not limited to sanitary products, washing facilities, and waste management. While menstrual equity is defined as the ability to access menstrual products when and where people need them. As a result, the inaugural flag raising signifies a new chapter in New Jersey’s efforts to end period poverty, and achieve menstrual equity to ensure people have access to menstrual health products, education, and resources.
Hoboken Public Safety Office Shares Fire Safety
Reminders for Grilling Season
Image Courtesy of the City of Hoboken
In a press release, the Hoboken Fire Department shared important fire safety tips. As Hoboken residents get ready to observe Memorial Day, and welcome the summer season, the Hoboken Public Safety and Fire Departments are reminding all to follow local laws and grilling safety best practices.
“Hoboken has approximately 75 high rises, and dozens more lower rise buildings in our densely populated mile square city,” said Hoboken Fire Marshal Stephen DiVincent. “Any open flame or electric heating device could cause a fire and we want to make sure that we do all we can to protect our community. That is why we are educating the public on proactive preventative measures they can take now to avoid a grill fire.”
Hoboken Fire Chief Anton Peskens and Fire Marshal DiVincent offer the following advice and safety tips, to ensure a safe grilling experience this summer:
- Only use grills outside.
- Keep children and pets away from the grilling area.
- Keep your grill clean by removing grease and fat buildup to prevent fires.
- Never leave your grill or any open flame unattended.
- Never use lighter fluid and only use self-igniting charcoal.
- Make sure charcoal grill coals are cool before disposing of them.
- Be courteous to your neighbors and keep smoke to a minimum.
- Make sure the gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
- Keep a portable fire extinguisher within reach whenever grilling.
The Hoboken Fire Department reminds residents of State fire code statues which state:
1. Portable LP Gas or propane cooking devices and equipment are prohibited inside multi- family dwellings and on any terraces, balconies, or rooftops. They are ONLY allowed outside on the ground floor of buildings.
2. Only Electric and charcoal grills are permitted on concrete balconies, terraces, or decks.
3. ALL grills must be set up at least five feet from entrances, overhangs, and any combustible construction.
As a reminder, fire pits are permissible in Hoboken without a permit for private use. However, it is illegal to burn vegetation, only specifically treated wood logs must be used, and flames cannot be more than 3 feet by 2 feet in height. Those using fire pits are asked to do so with caution and be respectful of neighbors, especially those who may have health concerns.
The Hoboken Fire Department will issue violation notices for those who do not abide by the Fire Codes. If the imminent hazard fire code violation is not abated within 24 hours, violators face fines of up to $5,000.
New Restaurant, Felina, Opening Soon in Jersey City
View this post on Instagram
A new Italian steakhouse called Felina will be opening soon in Jersey City. According to a press release, the restaurant is inspired by Felina, its Italian counterpart located in Ridgewood, and will have a stronger focus on modern Italian steaks, chops, and fresh seafood. The rooftop bar, called The Stork Club, prides itself on classic cocktails made with premium ingredients.
International Theater Festival Comes to Jersey City Theater Center
The Jersey City Theater Center (JCTC) will present a series of international performances as part of the Voices International Theatre Festival this June at Jersey City Theater Center, located at 165 Newark Avenue. According to a press release, The plays represent a diverse group of nations including Romania, Poland, Russia, the Czech Republic, and the United States. Performances include Present: Perfect by Jan Mocek; Bowie in Warsaw by Trap Door Theatre; On the Other Side by Elena Demyanenko & Tarik Burnash; The Best Child in the World by Alina Serban; and Pool by Denisa Musilova.
Seats are limited on a first-come, first-served basis. The Voices International Theater Festival is presented in partnership with Rehearsal for Truth and Polish Cultural Institute NY and is supported by public funds from the Jersey City Arts and Culture Fund. Tickets are available at www.JCTCenter.org.
NJ DEP Shares Plans at Liberty State Park Open House
At an open house-style event earlier this week, the NJ Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner reiterated his commitment to Liberty State Park remaining a park. According to NJ.com, Commissioner Shawn LaTourette firmly refuted any effort to privatize public lands. Plans for Liberty State Park prioritize protecting natural habitats and preserving public lands and parks for citizens.
Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop’s office issued the following statement in response to the plans:
Our administration is thankful to the Governor and Commissioner Shawn LaTourette for what appears to be a win for everyone with a balance between active recreation and preserving all the qualities that have made Liberty State Park special. Our administration is also in lockstep with the NJDEP in opposing privatization, and we are thankful to see such a strong statement from the state. Importantly, our team is also thankful for the state’s willingness to work with us on our concerns that we referenced in our letter last week around the specific proposed flood mitigation ideas as we want to guarantee we protect the park and SciTech Scity from water without sacrificing an unnecessary amount of acreage.
Stevens Institute Recognized by Bloomberg Philanthropies
View this post on Instagram
According to a press release, Bloomberg Philanthropies recognized Stevens Institute of Technology as an American Talent Initiative (ATI) High-Flier, a group of 28 high-graduation-rate institutions that are national leaders in college access and success for lower-income students. Stevens Institute of Technology received the distinction for its steady gains in lower-income student enrollment since 2015-16, and innovative recruitment, enrollment, and retention practices. Over the next year, ATI and Bloomberg Philanthropies will work with High-Fliers to amplify what they have learned to other four-year colleges and universities across the nation.
Jersey City Advances Right to Counsel Legislation
According to a press release from the office of Jersey City Councilman James E. Solomon, the Jersey City Council voted unanimously to advance one of the strongest Right-to-Counsel legislations in the country. In response, Councilman Solomon released the following statement:
“Today, the Jersey City Council voted to advance historic Right-to-Counsel legislation to a June 14th vote on final passage. This legislation will be critical to ensuring Jersey City’s tenants remain housed—while requiring the richest developers pay their fair share in development fees, which would fund Right-to-Counsel while replenishing our Affordable Housing Trust. I want to thank every City Council member who voted to advance the legislation and Mayor Fulop for his support.
“I look forward to the final vote and ultimate passage of the bill on June 14th, and remain committed to the fight for a Jersey City for All.”
