With the autumnal equinox behind us, it’s officially fall. It’s been another week full of headlines in Hudson County and we’ve got you covered with all of the local news from the past week. Among the highlights: two Hoboken schools announce plans to merge; a Broadway star will stop in Union City; and a Jersey City woman wants to inspire others. Read on for all the news from Hoboken and Jersey City for the week ending September 24th, 2023.
New Doughnut + Burger Spot Taking Over Hoboken’s Curry Up Now Space
Hoboken has its fair share of restaurants from cuisines around the world, and that includes Indian food. Curry Up Now, a fast-casual eatery chain located at 91 Washington Street, was one of those Hoboken Indian food staples: but we recently found out that this spot is permanently closed. Now, Dipped N’ Smashed — a new burger and build-your-own doughnut shop — will be taking its place. Read on for what we will miss about Curry Up Now and what we know about Dipped N’ Smashed taking over at 91 Washington Street in Hoboken.
Team Behind CoolVines to Open New Food Hall in Jersey City
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For many, alcohol retailers are pitstops: a detour on the way to a friend’s house, a BYOB dinner, or after a long day of work (that’s a joke… mostly). One family-owned wine shop in Jersey City, CoolVines, is venturing to be both the pitstop and the destination, using its years of experience in the food + drink industry to open a new food hall in Jersey City. Taking over the 19th-century bread factory in the Powerhouse Arts District — which is currently under development — The Bread Factory Jersey City is slated to open in April 2024, giving a home to numerous street food vendors, two bars, and more. Read on for what we know about Jersey City’s new food hall, from the team behind local wine retailer CoolVines.
This Hoboken Resident is Competing at Miss USA Next Week
Photo Credit: Derby Chukwudi
Derby Ozioma Chukwudi is making history as a first-generation Nigerian-American crowned Miss New Jersey USA. In her six-month reign, she has traveled statewide to advocate for local causes, meet with political leaders, and inspire youth and teens, all while maintaining her day job as an Investment Strategist at J.P. Morgan Private Bank. And, Derby is a Hoboken Girl. Derby found her home in the Mile-Square City in 2019 and quickly became an active community member. Now, we are excited to send Derby to Miss USA to represent the Garden State and win the crown! The 72nd annual Miss USA competition will air live on Friday, September 29th at 8PM Eastern time on The CW Network. Additionally, Miss Teen USA will be available to stream on the CW app and cwtv.com. Read on for our exciting conversation with Derby Chukwudi as she prepares to compete at Miss USA.
School Merger in Hoboken
Two Hoboken private schools have announced plans to merge in time for the 2024-2025 school year. According to Patch, the Christian Mustard Seed School, located at 422 Willow Avenue, and the independent, secular Hudson School, located at 422 Willow Avenue and 601 Park Avenue, will merge into one independent, secular school with grades preK through 12. The school will be known as the Hudson School and is the only independent pre-K through 12 school in Hudson County.
Jersey City Attorney Pleads Guilty to Fraud; Lost Over $2 Million of Client Funds
Jersey City Attorney Admits Wire Fraud, Aggravated Identity Theft, and Tax Crimes https://t.co/Do5hfkduof
— NJ US Attorney (@USAO_NJ) September 15, 2023
According to a press release from the US Attorney’s Office, a Jersey City attorney pled guilty to theft, wire fraud, and other charges stemming from misconduct and mishandling of client funds. Attorney James R. Lisa admitted to defrauding former clients of over $2 million. While out on bail for the initial fraud charges, Mr. Lisa was charged in a superseding indictment for wire fraud charges and identity theft. Sentencing will take place in January 2024.
Sandwichitos Opens in North Bergen
Sandwichitos, a new restaurant in North Bergen, hosted its grand opening this week, according to Patch. The restaurant features Spanish, Italian, and American influences on its gourmet sandwich menu. Sandwichitos is located at 9025 Old River Road in North Bergen.
Jersey City BBQ Restaurant Temporarily Closed
Popular Jersey City restaurant Carvao BBQ has closed for a few weeks for renovations, according to a social media post from the restaurant. Carvao is located at 686 Bergen Avenue and is known for its delicious food and laid-back, backyard vibes. The menu is infused with Portuguese influences such as yellow rice and classic linguica sausage.
Broadway Star to Headline Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration in Union City
Exciting News!
I’m thrilled to announce that @Lin_Manuel Miranda will be the keynote speaker for my 13th Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration! Lin’s talent and commitment to uplifting the Latino community has inspired us all.
Register now: https://t.co/bPEKjL6BXq pic.twitter.com/xaSuUyg8zp
— Senator Bob Menendez (@SenatorMenendez) September 19, 2023
According to a press release from his office, Senator Bob Menendez announced that Broadway actor Lin-Manuel Miranda would be the keynote speaker at Senator’s 13th Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration to be held at 2:30PM on Sunday, September 24th, 2023 at Union City High School. The event is free and open to the public and will feature cultural performances by Esperanza Azteca and Mr. Peru Dance Group. Members of the public wishing to attend the event should RSVP online here. Space is limited, and tickets will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Electric Car Share Program Comes to Newport
A car-sharing program with exclusively electric vehicles is coming soon to the Newport neighborhood of Jersey City. According to NJ.com, two Teslas will be available to Newport residents for hourly or daily rentals. The cars are rented through an app called Envoy, and users will have to pre-register their driver’s license and payment information.
Armoire Thrift Opens In Hoboken
Hudson County has thrift stores and consignment shops aplenty, and as of earlier this summer, there is one more thrift shop to check out in the Mile Square. The Armoire Thrift, which sells clothes, housewares, and jewelry, opened up this past July and is the newest thrift shop to come to the area. Read on to learn more about The Armoire Thrift, located at 60 Newark Street in Hoboken, New Jersey.
Changes Underway in Bergen Square Neighborhood of Jersey City
According to the Hudson County View, good things are happening in Bergen Square. As part of Bergen Square Day celebrations on Saturday, September 16th, Jersey City Major Steven Fulop announced several upgrades that have been completed in the area, and more to come. Some of the completed upgrades included more parking, flood mitigation efforts, and a pedestrian plaza, while some of the future improvements include plans for revitalized public spaces.
The Evolution Store Closes in Hoboken 3 Months After Opening; Other Recent Closures
Back in July, we reported the arrival of an NYC-based natural history shop in Hoboken called The Evolution Store. The 4th Street outpost (the shop’s second location) sold eccentric collector’s items like exotic animal teeth, taxidermies, and other artifacts — but apparently, the Mile Square wasn’t a fit home for these antique oddities. Three months after opening, The Evolution Store permanently closed its 106 4th Street storefront, following what feels like a trend of business closures in Hoboken this summer. Read on for everything we know about The Evolution Store’s closure, and an update on other Hoboken + Jersey City businesses that recently shut their doors for good.
Unanimous Jersey City Council Vote for Bayfront Project Financing
The Jersey City Council has agreed to a 30-year Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) deal for the development of the 100-acre Bayfront property. According to the Hudson County View, this agreement was unanimous among Council members, and many spoke out about how the deal was critical in making the Bayfront property a leader in providing affordable housing in the area. The project will be 35% affordable housing upon completion.
NJ Band The Feelies to Headline Hoboken Fall Arts Fest
The Feelies will take the Observer Highway Stage at 4:45PM. during the Hoboken Fall Arts + Music Festival on October 1st. From left to right: Stan Demeski, Dave Weckerman, Brenda Sauter, Glenn Mercer, + Bill Million. Photo Credit: Fumie Ishii.
The Hoboken Fall Arts + Music Festival returns on Sunday, October 1st on Washington Street, between Observer Highway and Seventh Street. From 11AM – 6PM, residents can peruse displays + sales from artists, crafters, food vendors, and local businesses. This week, the City announced the headlining musical act for this year’s festival: The Feelies. Hailing from Haledon, New Jersey, The Feelies are an iconic American indie rock band known for their timeless hits like “Crazy Rhythms,” “Let’s Go,” “Fa Ce-La,” and “Sooner or Later.” Read on to learn more about the Fall Arts + Music Festival happening this year in Hoboken.
Cafe Alyce in Jersey City is Expanding
Back in 2021, Cafe Alyce took over the former spot of the Medical Center Luncheonette at 641 Montgomery Street in Jersey City. Founded by the same owners of the now-closed Hooked JC, Cafe Alyce was something that has been in the works since before Hooked JC even began in 2017. After launching as just a breakfast and lunch restaurant, this spot always had plans to expand more — and has since extended its hours and launched a dinner service. Now, Cafe Alyce has secured a liquor license and will be expanding to include a full-service cocktail bar, plus even more extended hours. Read on for more information about Cafe Alyce + what’s next for this Jersey City restaurant.
BOND Opens Second Location in Midtown Hoboken
If you’re looking for a high-quality haircut in Hoboken, BOND is a great choice. Located at 44 Hudson Place, 3rd Floor, the local salon cultivates a sanctuary where you can get your hair cut, colored, styled, and more. Earlier this month, BOND opened its expanded storefront experience in midtown Hoboken at 425 Washington Street, amidst renowned retailers providing a unique blend of luxury and convenience for its clients. Keep reading to learn more about BOND + its new location.
Hudson Pride Center Gears Up for 30th Anniversary Celebration
Via a press release, the Hudson Pride Center announced its 30th Anniversary celebration. Tickets are available now for the party, which will be on October 20th at 8PM at Six26, located at 128 Christopher Columbus Drive in Jersey City. The Hudson Pride Center a is 501(c)(3) non-profit community-based organization committed to supporting the local LGBTQIA population.
Buddy’s Back with Two New Shows
Photo courtesy of Carlo’s Bakery
Buddy Valastro, the baker behind the hometown-favorite and internationally famous Carlo’s Bakery, announced two new shows debuting this fall. Via a press release, TV network A&E shared the two shows, which will debut in November. “Legends of the Fork” follows Buddy as he travels the country in search of the most renowned dishes and restaurants to uncover the “secret sauce” to their success. “Buddy Valastro’s Cake Dynasty” highlights Buddy and his family as they bring the Carlo’s Bake Shop empire to new levels — expanding the business into new areas while still baking the most innovative and creative cakes around.
Robbery at Jersey City Domino’s Pizza Location
The Domino’s Pizza location at 741 Communipaw Avenue in Jersey City was robbed in the early morning hours of Monday, September 18th. According to NJ.com, employees were threatened at knifepoint while the suspect stole cash from the register. No injuries were reported and the investigation is ongoing.
Public Meeting on Sixth Street Embankment
A virtual meeting will be held on September 28th to discuss the future of the Sixth Street Embankment in Jersey City, according to NJ.com. The forum will be hosted by the Surface Transportation Board, a federal agency, which will also share a report on the status of the embankment. Residents are invited to participate and share their feedback. Registration is required, click here for information.
Jersey City Woman Wins 3rd Place in National Essay Contest
A Jersey City resident is celebrating her second victory in a national essay contest. Per NJ.com, 75-year-old LaVerne Ben-Mansel won third place in an essay contest sponsored by the National Federation of the Blind; she won first place last year. LaVerne wants her story to inspire others to keep trying new things.
Guilty Plea in Illegal Kickback Scheme at Hoboken-Based Sire Spirits
A former employee of a Hoboken-based spirits company, Sire Spirits, which is owned by rapper 50 Cent, pled guilty in federal court to charges stemming from his role in an illegal kickback scheme. According to NJ.com, Mitchell Green was the brand manager for the company from 2017 through 2020 and negotiated kickbacks for his own company while making deals on behalf of Sire Spirits, netting him over $2 million. He faces up to 20 years in prison at his January 2024 sentencing.
Jersey City, JCMUA Near Agreement on Future
Jersey City has negotiated a new deal with the city’s Municipal Utilities Authority (JCMUA), resulting in a significant windfall for the city if approved, according to NJ.com. The deal would last for 40 years and sets up a franchise agreement where the JCMUA would retain control of the city’s water and sewage systems. This arrangement had originally been discussed in 2020 but was delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Leasing Opens at Overlook Flats in Journal Square
Overlook Flats, a new luxury apartment complex in Journal Square at 32 Oakland Avenue, has opened for leasing. According to a press release, the building has 297 units with studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans near the Journal Square PATH Station. The building has been designed to achieve LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, demonstrating the developer’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly living.
Hoboken Library Debuts Vibrant New Cards
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It’s Library Card Sign-Up Month and the Hoboken Library is getting into the spirit with a new assortment of colored library cards. According to a social media post from the Library, the cards come in five bright colors and are available for new and existing cardholders. Visit the Library’s website for more information on how to get a library card.
Hudson Catholic Cancels Rest of Football Season
The season has ended early for Hudson Catholic High School’s football team. According to NJ.com, the team has so many injuries and illnesses that the coach has been forced to cancel the rest of the season. It was already set to be a transition year for the team, after 17 seniors graduated last year and the 11-year head coach stepped down over the summer.
Jersey City Art Show to Feature Local Artists
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A fundraiser and art show called Angel Numbers will take place on Sunday, September 24th at The Pink Stop, located at 6 Bleecker Street in Jersey City. Per NJ.com, the show is organized by Athena Toledo, a teacher, artist, and MPS in art therapy candidate at the School for Visual Arts. The show will feature local artists, vendors, and more.
The Heap Takes Hoboken
On Friday, September 22nd, The Heap, a larger-than-life walking puppet, made its way throughout the Mile Square from Puppet Heap’s homebase at the Monroe Center for the Arts. The puppet stopped to gather whatever or whoever it encountered along the way and added them to the towering pack on his back. Residents spotted him at some of the shops on the route including Yukis, Black Rail, Bwè (on Washington), and The Hive. The museum exhibit will take place on Sunday, September 24th from 2PM-5PM and will remain on display until November 5th at the Hoboken Historical Museum. The multi-media installation will depict a glimpse of the Heap later in life, in hibernation, after his burden had become so heavy that he has sunk halfway into the earth.
Popular NYC-Based Cafe Daily Provisions Makes Jersey City Plans
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Per Jersey Digs, a popular NYC-based cafe will open its first New Jersey location in Jersey City. Daily Provisions will be a tenant in the Arts + Powerhouse Building. Earlier this week, it was announced that the building would become a food hall called The Bread Factory from the owners of CoolVines. Read more in our story here.
Survey Results Released in Hoboken Housing Authority Plan
After months of public outreach about its plans to overhaul its building stock, resident survey results have been released by the Hoboken Housing Authority. Per Patch, the survey results will guide City officials and project leaders as they set out to redevelop the over 1300 units that make up HHA’s stock. Residents can read the entire report here.
New Trash Cans Available in Hoboken; Part of Rat Abatement Efforts
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Starting Monday, September 24th, Hoboken residents will be able to pick up a new trash can from the City that will be in compliance with the new rat abatement-related trash containerization regulations. Residents can pick up the trash cans at the Multi-Service Center, located at 124 Grand Street. Containers are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Residents must bring proof of residency which may include a utility bill, signed lease, or license. Registered agents must bring a copy of their management contract agreement. Read more about the City’s rat abatement efforts in our story here.
