HOBOKEN, NJ - Over one hundred people met at the gazebo in Church Square Park on Tuesday evening for a Hudson County Interfaith Gathering in which they expressed support for Palestinians and voiced their demands for peace and a ceasefire to the war in Gaza.
The evening included musical performances as well as speeches that varied in tone from religious leaders, academics, and advocates from groups such as American Muslims for Palestine and Jewish Voices for Peace.
“At a time of unspeakable pain and loss for the Palestinian people, we come together in solidarity, grief, and hope,” the organizers wrote in a pamphlet that was handed out to attendees.
The event began somberly with the words ‘ceasefire now’, ‘not in our name’, ‘put the weapons down’ and ‘you are not alone’ being gently sung by the crowd.
There was a significant contingency of Hoboken police officers on site to ensure safety at the gathering.
One of the musical performers was Salem Joseph Farmand, a Catholic Palestinian musician, who said he had a unique identity as someone who shared the culture of Palestinians as well as the faith of Christians. He sang a song he wrote called ‘Stop the Bleeding’ which he said was about reconciling the “hope of Christ and the despair of occupation.”
“It’s a difficult song to get through. But ultimately it’s about hope and a call for peace while not allowing our hearts to become hardened,” said Farmand.
Rabbi Rachel Kahn-Troster, a member of Rabbis for Ceasefire and a human rights activist, said: “My heart is breaking that we’re still here calling for a ceasefire and how many more people have died.”
She referenced the United Human Rights Declaration and spoke of the need to insist on everyone’s basic humanity.
“In the Jewish community, we pride ourselves in believing that everyone is created in the image of God. You can only do what happened on October 7th or what is happening in Gaza if you forget that every human being is sacred,” added Rabbi Kahn-Troster.
Others spoke more aggressively, and described the war in Gaza as “genocide” or “ethnic cleansing” by Israel against Palestinians. Dr. Chris Durante, a theologian from the Greek Orthodox Christian Church, altered the tone of the event in a speech in which he admonished “genocidal cleansing” in Gaza.
Durante discussed his background and culture, saying: “My people are no strangers to cleansing,” and referred to Israelis as “war-mongering Zionists.”
Rohan Narine, a member of Hindus for Human Rights, lamented the “othering” of people.
“When ‘the other’ exists, true happiness can never exist,” he said, before adding: “We denounce the U.S. funded genocide against Palestine.”
Others who spoke or performed at the gathering were Dr. Mohammad Qatanani, senior imam at ICPC, Navdeep Tucker, a Sikh performer, and James Yee, a former U.S. Army Chaplain and member of Veterans for Peace.
The event was sponsored by All Saints Episcopal Parish, Pax Christi NJ, Jewish Voices for Peace Northern NJ, Hindus for Human Rights, American Muslims for Palestine, North Hudson Islamic Education Center, Veterans for Peace, and NJ Peace Action.
]]>HOBOKEN, NJ - An ordinance requiring commercial e-bike delivery riders in Hoboken to be licensed with the City was made official after it was signed “with a measure of reservation” by Mayor Ravi Bhalla.
In a letter to Council members, Bhalla said he was signing the ordinance but called for an updated version that holds delivery app companies accountable and garners the support of key stakeholders such as law enforcement.
The ordinance had been sent to the mayor’s desk to be either signed or vetoed after it was passed by the City Council by a vote of 5-3 at Wednesday night’s meeting following robust debate.
With the mayor’s signature, the ordinance is now scheduled to come into effect in June and will require commercial e-bike delivery riders to wear a vest with a registration number, take a short quiz on road safety laws, and be licensed with the City.
The ordinance was sponsored by Council members Paul Presinzano, Ruben Ramos, and Mike Russo in a bid to tackle the issue of e-bike delivery riders cycling at speed on sidewalks. Failure to comply will result in them being issued a $50 fine, according to the ordinance.
"I am really pleased to see Mayor Bhalla approve this ordinance that brings the kind of safety measures residents have been asking for.” said Councilman Presinzano. “I am now looking forward to transitioning the outlook of the E Delivery Bike Task Force away from what we can’t do, to what we can do and how can we make it even better.”
Those opposed to the ordinance, including the Chief of Police Steven Aguiar, expressed concerns about its enforceability. In his letter, Bhalla wrote that he shared these concerns but was nonetheless signing the ordinance.
“It is with a measure of reservation that I affix my signature to this document recognizing its shortcomings, limited enforceability, and lack of practicality. However, I do so in the spirit of collaboration and with a sincere desire of reaching our shared goal of ensuring pedestrian safety on the sidewalks of Hoboken,” said Bhalla.
Bhalla went on to write that while he, alongside several members of the relevant task force that was set up to address the issue, have “concerns regarding the enforceability and practicality of this ordinance,” he said it was incumbent on them to demonstrate good faith in their commitment to addressing the issue.
“While it is true that a veto may have temporarily halted the progression of this legislation, it would not have advanced us any closer to a comprehensive solution that truly serves the needs of our community," he added.
Bhalla pointed to “good concepts in the ordinance” which he said included the wearing of a vest for individuals delivering food and employed by delivery app companies.
However, he reiterated a concern he previously expressed that the ordinance would disproportionately target immigrant groups who make up the vast majority of commercial e-bike delivery riders and who are less likely to have the documentation needed to obtain the registration that the ordinance requires.
He added that this could potentially lessen its effectiveness, while also causing fear and opportunities for negative interactions between the e-bike delivery riders and law enforcement.
Bhalla went on to thank the City Council, while also expressing that their work is far from finished.
He said it is imperative that they reconvene and engage in honest dialogue to develop an improved ordinance that “not only addresses the concerns of residents but also garners the support of key stakeholders such as the Hoboken Police Department and Transportation Department.”
He called for a second iteration of the ordinance to hold delivery app companies and their operational model which incentivizes as many deliveries as possible in a short period of time accountable.
“Without an updated ordinance that holds these companies accountable for their riders’ behavior, I don’t envision any actual change in rider behavior.”
Bhalla concluded with a call for the task force to redouble efforts to tackle the issue by coming up with short, medium, and long term strategies. He also wrote he would continue to support the HPD in its efforts to prioritize existing laws and ordinances which yielded over 200 summonses for e-bike violations in the second half of last year.
“Together, I am confident that we can forge a path forward that prioritizes the safety and quality of life of all Hoboken residents," said Bhalla, concluding that he looked forward to an updated ordinance that addresses the concerns mentioned.
Councilmen Russo and Ramos also expressed their thanks to the mayor for signing the ordinance into law.
“This ordinance is a simple approach that will have a meaningful impact on street and sidewalk safety for our community and I am happy to see the mayor has signed it into law,” said Councilman Ramos. “As a city, we have considerable experience in registration processes like resident parking permits and taxicab and bartender registrations. We can leverage this to set this new program up quickly and begin to make a real difference," he added.
Councilman Russo said, “We have seen that E-delivery presents a growing challenge for cities.”
"I am appreciative of Mayor Bhalla’s support and am looking forward to continuing to work with the Task Force, his administration and public safety so we can ensure a robust enforcement effort to deliver improved safety to Hoboken families.”
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HOBOKEN, NJ - The egg hunt extravaganza at Church Square Park was over almost as soon as it began on Tuesday as dozens of four and five-year-olds vacuumed up the eggs that were scattered around.
Organized by the Hoboken Public Library, the faith-inclusive egg hunt offered an opportunity for all to take part and have fun. Inside the hollow plastic eggs was a single Tootsie Roll or Hershey Kiss and on returning the eggs, kids received special prizes.
By all accounts, the roughly 300 eggs that were hidden around the park were scooped up by the eager scavengers in under ten minutes — as some late comers were left with no more eggs to find.
But for those who missed out, the Hoboken Public Library has three more egg hunt extravaganzas planned in the coming days prior to Easter Sunday.
An egg hunt for teens will take place on Wednesday, March 27th, in Church Square Park at 4 p.m.
Another will be held Friday, March 28th, at the library’s Grand Street branch at 10:30 a.m., while the last one takes place on Saturday, March 29th, at 1 p.m. at Moma Johnson Field.
Just remember….. don’t be late!
]]>HOBOKEN, NJ - The New Jersey Devils will be building a brand-new rollerblade hockey rink at the Multi-Service Center in Hoboken.
The Hoboken City Council passed a resolution approving the donation from the National Hockey League (NHL) team of $240,000 to the City to build the outdoor rink and to provide hockey programs and activities.
The money will go towards the removal and disposal of the rollerblade rink’s old boarding system, patching and leveling of the rink surface and installation of the dasher board curb footing, a new dasher board system and new rink flooring, as well as acquisition of new hockey equipment.
The NJ Devils is also offering to provide part-time coaches and staff to assist the City’s Division of Recreation in developing programs at the Rink for hockey clinics and games for children and adult residents.
Business Administrator Jason Freeman told the Council that the City had been in discussions with the NJ Devils for several months and that they are aware of the City’s upcoming plans to re-do the Multi-Service Center.
Councilman Phil Cohen said, “The picture of that rink looks awesome.”
“Thank you to the New Jersey Devils for donating this rink. It looks awesome. I hope it looks half as good when it’s built as it does in the photos, because people are going to love it,” added Councilman Cohen.
]]>HOBOKEN, NJ -- The Hoboken baseball team will open its 2024 season against Snyder on Tuesday, April 2 in Jersey City.
The RedWings turned in a 14-7 record in Chip Benway's first season as head coach last year. He previously had 266 games of head coaching experience at Union City.
The coach says that Hoboken is looking to repeat as HCIAL National Division Champions, make a run in the Hudson County Tournament after a disappointing early exit last year and compete in the state tournament after a second-round exit in 2023.
"We're a very young squad this year with six incoming freshmen who are going to be asked to do a lot from the start," Benway said. "However, we still have enough experience around the roster to help those younger guys out."
That experience comes in the form of junior Ethan Ortiz, who was the HCIAL National Division Pitcher of the Year in 2023; junior catcher Adrian Tavera, another HCIAL National Division first team selection; senior first baseman Benny Cecala, senior outfielder Sam Perez, senior third baseman Vincenzo Torre and sophomore infielder Matthew Edwards.
Ortiz struck out 49 batters in 29 2/3 innings last season with a 2.60 earned-run average. Ortiz is a legitimate ace, but the only other pitcher on the staff with varsity experience is junior right-hander Max Casazza, a transfer from Hudson Catholic who can also play shortstop.
Tavera batted .379 with nine extra-base hits last season. He is the top run-producer returning this season after driving in 27 runs last year. Edwards gives Hoboken the element of speed on the basepaths. He stole 17 bases last season.
"When you have a true No. 1 pitcher in Ethan Ortiz on the mound, we can go out and compete with anybody," Benway said. "The good thing with that is he's only a junior so we have him for another two years. Now pair him with Max Casazza, and that's a lethal 1-2 punch which will go very far in the state tournament.
"Offensively, we will look to lean on Adrian Tavera, who is coming off an incredible sophomore campaign. Max Casazza is another player offensively who will be a major boost to this lineup, a transfer from Hudson Catholic who batted .339 last season which included five extra-base hits."
The freshmen who are likely to be thrust right into varsity roles this season are pitchers William Herrera and Peter Stehli, who also play the infield; utilityman Dom Magaletta; outfielder Jason Dale; infielder/pitcher Jaren Pena; and utilityman Devin McMillan.
"This will be a fun year of baseball, with a lot of developing and learning, all while staying competitive and bringing Hoboken back to the top of Hudson County," Benway said.
]]>HOBOKEN, NJ - The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a flood watch for Hoboken from 8 a.m., Saturday, through 2 a.m. on Sunday as up to 3.5 inches of prolonged rainfall is expected.
Low-lying and poor drainage areas are expected to flood, especially during the Saturday night high-tide cycle, which is at approximately 8:45 p.m. in Hoboken, city officials have said.
Officials have also asked residents to avoid travel during the height of this storm, if possible.
The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) reminded residents to avoid flood-prone areas and that intense rainfall of greater than 0.8 inches per hour can result in flooding in low-lying areas.
The OEM also asked residents to not walk through floodwaters or drive around barricades or through flooded areas.
No parking signs will be posted in flood-prone areas. The signs are advisories and cars will not be towed, but it is recommended drivers move vehicles prior to flooding as this will assist with post-storm clean up as well, the OEM said.
The OEM anticipates the City’s Flood Warning System to be activated during this storm and have asked residents to not attempt to drive around gates when they are lowered
Residents may report flooded intersections and clogged drain inlets by calling the NHSA Hotline at (866) 689-3970.
The City is also offering a special rate for parking of $5 per 24-hour period in Garages B (28 Second St.), D (215 Hudson St.), and Midtown (371 Fourth St.) to residents with a valid Resident On-Street Parking Permit or Temporary Parking Permit. This rate will be available from 9 a.m. Saturday, March 23 (tomorrow) through 9 a.m. Sunday, March 24 at a rate of $5 per night in Garages B (28 Second St.), D (215 Hudson St.), and Midtown (371 Fourth St.)
Garage space is limited and typically fills quickly during storm events. Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Regular rates are in effect at all other times and vehicles will be charged full price if they enter a participating garage before 9 a.m. Saturday, March 23 and/or exit after 9 a.m. Sunday, March 24.
High winds of 25 to 35 mph are also expected in Hoboken at the height of the storm. Residents are asked to secure loose objects outside or bring them inside, especially from balconies.
Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines, resulting in power outages. Please report power outages and downed wires to PSEG at https://nj.myaccount.pseg.com/myservicepublic/outagepublic.
]]>HOBOKEN, NJ - The budding scientists of the Hoboken Dual Language Charter School (HoLa) showcased their talents at the New Jersey State Finals Tournament of the NJ Science Olympiad, securing seven medals across a variety of events, including three top three awards.
The students earned the right to compete after previously claiming fourth place at the Northeast regional contest.
Clinching first place in Experimental Design, HoLa students devised and executed various experiments on-site, applying scientific methodology.
HoLa secured second place in the Road Scholar event, a competition that challenges students to interpret complex geographical data, such as maps and satellite images, to answer questions accurately.
Finishing third place in the state, the HoLa Codebusters team showcased their adeptness at cryptanalysis, decoding encrypted messages using historical and modern ciphers — requiring both mathematics and computer science skills, including Spanish-language cryptography.
HoLa students secured fifth place in Roller Coaster and Anatomy & Physiology events, where they displayed their understanding of physics and biology concepts. Additionally, their sixth-place finishes in Write It Do It and Air Trajectory competitions highlighted their ability to communicate technical information effectively and apply principles of projectile motion.
The HoLa student awardees are:
HOBOKEN, NJ - A Hoboken woman who fraudulently claimed to be a CPA for over nine years, and stole over $1.5 million from more than 100 victims in New Jersey, was sentenced to five years in prison, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced on Thursday.
Yezenia Castillo, 47, previously pleaded guilty before the U.S. District Court to one count each of wire fraud and tax evasion. Judge Susan Wigenton imposed the sentence on Thursday in Newark federal court.
According to court documents, from 2012 to 2021, Castillo falsely claimed to be a CPA who could provide various financial and accounting services to non-profit organizations, including religious institutions and private schools across New Jersey.
Castillo was not a CPA and never provided any of these promised services. After she was hired, she used various ways to steal from her ‘clients’, including collecting fees for services that were never done and transferring client funds to herself without authorization.
Castillo also collected funds from clients by falsely claiming she would use it to pay their taxes, but she instead kept the money. To conceal her fraud, Castillo told victims that she had filed and paid their taxes, and she falsified receipts making it appear to the victims that their taxes had been paid.
Over 100 victims were defrauded, resulting in more than $1.5 million in total financial losses.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Wigenton sentenced Castillo to three years of supervised release and ordered restitution of $3.25 million and forfeiture of $3.25 million.
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HOBOKEN, NJ - The Hoboken Police Department (HPD) has arrested a 21-year-old Jersey City man in connection with an incident during which he reportedly stabbed a victim in the area of Fourth and Jefferson Streets.
The suspect, Randy Barrett Jr., committed the non-fatal stabbing after the victim and his friends confronted him after he appeared to be breaking into parked cars in the early hours of last Saturday morning, the HPD said.
When officers responded to reports of the stabbing they found a 22-year-old victim, who is not from Hoboken, with stab wounds to his chest.
Sgt. James Barbaro and Officer Aaron Font rendered life-saving aid by applying a chest seal and administering oxygen until the Hoboken Volunteer Ambulance Corps arrived and transported the victim to an area hospital. The victim was treated for his injuries, which included a collapsed lung, and was released a few days later.
The on scene investigation by the HPD revealed that Barrett Jr. brandished a knife and stabbed the 22-year-old in the chest before fleeing the scene. Further investigation into the stabbing by the Detectives Bureau, led by Police Officer Samuel Flores and Detective Connor Milne, identified Barrett Jr. as the actor.
Barrett, Jr. was also connected to the break-in of at least one parked car in the same area, on the same night. That case was investigated by Det. Fabian Quinones.
Charges include:
• Aggravated assault (2 counts)
• Possession of weapons for unlawful purposes
• Unlawful possession of weapons
• Theft
• Burglary
Barrett, Jr. turned himself into Hoboken Police Headquarters on March 20, 2024. He was processed on all charges and transported to the Hudson County Correctional Facility.
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HOBOKEN, NJ - The Hoboken City Council passed an ordinance on Wednesday that will require e-bike delivery riders to be licensed, wear a high-vis vest with a registration number, and take a mandatory test on road safety laws before being permitted to operate.
The ordinance had received significant public backing since it was introduced by Council members Paul Presinzano, Ruben Ramos, and Mike Russo amid widespread safety concerns among residents due to e-bike delivery riders cycling at speed on sidewalks.
It was passed by a vote of 5 to 3 with Councilman Jim Doyle absent.
Council members opposed to the ordinance expressed concerns about the practicalities of enforcing it and believed more of the onus should be placed on the food delivery companies to ensure compliance of their riders with road safety regulations.
The ordinance, which is scheduled to come into effect in June if signed by Mayor Ravi Bhalla, also requires food delivery personnel who use these electric vehicles in Hoboken to pay a $5 registration fee with the City to become licensed, and failure to comply would result in a $50 fine. Bhalla could veto the ordinance.
All council members, apart from Councilman Doyle who was absent, voiced their opinion on the ordinance, as did members of the public and Chief of Police Steven Aguiar, who offered his professional opinion on its enforcement applicabilities.
Councilman Joe Quintero said the registration part of the ordinance was “toxic” because it placed a burden on the workers, who “for a variety of reasons may struggle to comply.”
“More importantly, it puts a burden on the City to administer this,” Quintero added, saying it puts law enforcement and the parking utility in an awkward position.
Councilman Mike Russo explained it was the Council’s responsibility to enact laws while the Administration is charged with enforcement.
“If we see a law that we’d like to enact in the City of Hoboken, we vote for it. It is on the Administration, the law enforcement, the parking utility, it is now in their court to administer that,” said Russo.
Russo also likened this ordinance to others such as requiring bartenders and bouncers to be licensed or dogs to be licensed, saying that while some dog owners get away with not picking up after their dogs that does not mean they should not have laws against this in place.
“We need to do something, we need to put a law in the books, we need to start this process rolling,” Councilman Russo concluded.
Councilman Ruben Ramos said this was an instance in which the residents were leading the council rather than the other way around.
“I think the residents are clamoring for some type of legislation on e-bikes on our sidewalks, some of them riding down streets the wrong way, and other issues as well,” said Councilman Ramos.
Ramos added that the legislation was “pretty good” considering the challenges with tackling the issue, and said in terms of enforceability that law enforcement would “figure it out.”
“This is a law we’re putting in place because there’s been no action by public safety for a long period of time,” Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher asserted, adding there have been “so many people” who have reached out to council members on this issue, and that the registration component was not toxic because a couple hundred more people were being licensed.
“We have the ability to license people in Hoboken,” she said, adding: “I have no problem increasing the pressure on HPU or the police department to enforce. I have no problem."
Fisher also said that the idea of holding the delivery apps accountable was beyond the purview of local government, saying that the local ordinance proposed in Jersey City to do just that was now falling apart.
Councilman Phil Cohen said he did not believe the parking utility was unwilling to enforce it but rather that the ordinance itself was “unenforceable.”
“How are we helping our community if we’re passing an unenforceable mandate,” Cohen asked, implying that council members were passing this ordinance for politics — allowing them to blame the mayor for being unable to enforce an unenforceable ordinance.
Hoboken Chief of Police Steven Aguiar, who was asked to speak on the ordinance by Quintero, said while he supported the initiative, he could not support the legislation as currently written. He said it was his professional opinion that the ordinance would not address the issue, apart from the vest component. He said there was already an ordinance prohibiting cycling on the sidewalk.
“When a law is written I would think that thought would be given for how that law is going to be enforced and input from people who are going to enforce it,” said Aguiar.
He continued that there have been previous educational campaigns on this but they were not effective.
Addressing Fisher, Aguiar said it was untrue that e-bike delivery riders on sidewalks were being enforced as there have been hundreds of summonses issued. But he added it was not being enforced enough.
“You know why? Because we don’t have adequate staffing to do so,” Aguiar.
He added if there were a ‘quality of life’ unit with 20 or 30 officers, then it may be enforceable but without that no ordinance could adequately enforce it.
Aguiar also said that the HPD does not have the constitutional authority to issue a summons to an e-bike delivery rider if a civilian reports them and provides that rider’s license number on their vest. Rather, they have to turn up to the headquarters to write the summons, and then show up in court the following day as a witness, Aguiar explained.
“It’s just not going to happen,” he said.
A heated exchange followed between Aguiar and Russo when the police chief questioned whether e-bike delivery drivers who originate from elsewhere but travel through Hoboken to deliver food are subject to this ordinance.
“When somebody originates from Union City, rides through 15th and Clinton and runs through my five-year-old child because they have to get to their delivery three seconds faster than riding through the street, I don’t care where they originate from," Russo said.
Aguiar responded by saying that “speaking louder does not make your points any more valid.”
He added that “throwing mud at the wall and seeing what sticks” was not the right way to enact laws, and that this ordinance would inundate the police department with phone calls.
“I would love to do more. I don’t like saying that I can’t do something or that I’m failing. I don’t have the people to do that,” Aguiar concluded.
The ordinance’s main sponsor, Councilman Paul Presinzano, said: “Our main goal is safety and how we’re going to get there.”
“On my watch, I’m not going to do nothing and sit on my hands and then we have a fatality on our sidewalks,” he said.
Presinzano has also taken on the job as a e-bike delivery rider to learn more about the issues being addressed, and said he has done more than 70 orders so far.
“I have a vest on, I stick out. The crew on Third and Washington Street have said some choice names,” Presinzano said. The delivery companies will allegedly sue the City if it goes after them, Presinzano added.
Presinzano continued to offer details about the experience of being a delivery driver and explained more about the issue in Hoboken.
“Compared to the Jersey City ordinance, ours is simple. It’s ‘take a test, wear a vest’,” Presinzano said, adding that it was human nature whereby if a e-bike delivery driver sees someone else wearing a vest, they are more likely to do so too.
Presinzano also criticized the working group established by Mayor Ravi Bhalla to study the issue, which he said was “kicking the can down the road.” “Where have we been for the past three years on this?” he said.
Councilwoman Emily Jabbour said she was voting no as she did not want to give a false promise to residents, and criticized the ordinance for being vague on the enforcement aspect.
She reiterated Chief Aguiar’s assertion that an ordinance against cycling on sidewalks already exists.
“A complicated problem doesn’t usually have a silver bullet solution,” she said, and added that the working group was making progress on this issue.
The ordinance was passed 5-3 with councilmembers Jen Giattino, Ramos, Russo, and Presinzano voted yes, while Councilmembers Jabbour, Quintero, and Cohen voted no with Councilman Doyle absent.
]]>HOBOKEN, NJ - Hoboken residents are invited to receive their free flu or Covid-19 vaccines on Thursday, March 21st.
The Hudson Regional Health Commission is offering the vaccines as part of its free monthly vaccine clinics initiative.
Residents can get their shots from 3 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. in the Multi Service Center at 125 Grand St. and are encouraged to sign up ahead of time as vaccines will be given out while supplies last.
Moderna and Pfizer Covid-19 vaccines will be offered to anyone over the age of six months, while the flu shot is available to those over the age of 18.
The next vaccine clinic in Hoboken will take place on April 18th.
]]>HOBOKEN, NJ - In his fifth State of the City address, Mayor Ravi Bhalla put forth a largely optimistic viewpoint and future vision of the Mile Square — hailing the progress made across a wider array of issues and declaring Hoboken the “best small city in America.”
Community dignitaries, including council members, public safety officials, and local government directors and staff filled the Mile Square Theatre on Tuesday night to hear the Mayor deliver the address in-person for the first time since he did so just prior to the start of pandemic restrictions in 2020.
“As I prepared for tonight, I looked back on that speech, and I couldn’t help feeling an overwhelming sense of pride about the progress we’ve made as a community,” Bhalla began.
He outlined some of the recent quality of life improvements that he believes have made Hoboken the best small city in the country, including the acquisition of the former Union Dry Dock site, the rollout of Vision Zero initiatives to make Hoboken’s streets safer, winning the Monarch battle to preserve the uptown waterfront, and the opening of ReslienCity Park.
Bhalla, who is also seeking the Democratic Party nomination for the 8th Congressional District House seat, offered a caveat to his optimism by noting progress on these quality of life issues “only go so far.”
“Because what is it worth having a revitalized waterfront, more open space, and safer streets, if our homes are not up to par, or even border on unlivable?” he asked rhetorically.
“We must remember that housing is a human right, and we can, and we must do even better for the residents of the entire City, and in particular, residents of the Hoboken Housing Authority,” said Bhalla.
He then touted the long-awaited Housing Authority Redevelopment plan, which was passed by the City Council in December and will allow the revitalization of 1,354 units of housing for 2,500 residents.
“That neglect of the Housing Authority ends now,” he said.
He applauded the Housing Authority’s Executive Director Marc Recko who was in the audience, as well as the authority’s staff, the City Council, and the Community Development team in City Hall led by Director Chris Brown.
Bhalla also paid homage to Aaron Lewitt, who recently passed away from ALS, for his contributions toward finalizing the plan, as well as Lewitt’s lifelong community service, and acknowledged his wife and son, Lynne and Nathaniel, who were in the audience.
“Aaron understood that a diverse community is a strong community,” Bhalla said, before continuing to assert his commitment toward ensuring economic diversity within Hoboken.
He also reiterared his opposition to proposed referendum to amend the Rent Control Ordinance by the Mile Square Tax Association (MSTA) — which Bhalla referred to as an attempt to “gut rent control” by a “special interest group led by wealthy lobbyists and deep pockets.”
The MSTA has said the proposed referendum will make the Rent Control Ordinance more fair for small landlords while also providing more affordable housing in Hoboken.
“Let me be clear – I will forcefully oppose this existential threat to Hoboken’s affordability protections with every ounce of energy in me,” said Bhalla.
Bhalla lauded the recently re-launched Home Improvement Program as a means of alleviating the burden of making necessary home repairs for low to moderate income residents.
Bolstering his claim of making Hoboken more affordable to less wealthy residents, Bhalla cited other cost-alleviating measures passed, including the discounted CitiBike program for low-income residents, having farmer’s markets accept SNAP benefits, and offering free legal advice to residents through the tenants advocacy program.
Bhalla also remarked on his Administration providing services for seniors, saying he was committed to making Hoboken an “attractive place to live not just for 20-somethings and those with young families, but also for those longtime residents who wish to age in place.”
A new affordable housing initiative for seniors at 11th and Willow will soon come before the Zoning Board, Bhalla told the audience, replacing a surface parking lot with 36 income-restricted units for seniors.
“This will represent the first new, 100% affordable housing complex in Hoboken for seniors in over 30 years, demonstrating our commitment to those seniors who have given so much to our city,” said Bhalla.
He also noted that housing shortages and issues with affordability in Hoboken stem from larger national trends such as rising costs, a mental health crisis, and other factors. He said this was why the City hired two social workers, Lori Hetzel and Bianca Hoffer.
“[They] have done incredible work to assist those most vulnerable members of our community,” he said, continuing to add that they have met with nearly 400 individuals in need, 86 of whom were experiencing homelessness, and have offered 300 housing referrals which has helped some find temporary or permanent housing.
Segueing into advancements made in mitigating against the effects of climate change, Bhalla said: “While we strive to do what is right and just as it pertains to housing justice, we are also seeking to achieve environmental justice and address the negative impacts of climate change on Hoboken.”
He added, “As many know, in our Mile Square and cities across the country, changes to our climate often disproportionately affect communities of color.”
The Hoboken Housing Authority filled up with water “like a bath” during Hurricane Sandy and in times of torrential rain, it is the western part of the city that feels the brunt of the flooding effects, the mayor said.
Bhalla highlighted the progress made by the City on the climate front, stating how the federally funded storm-resiliency project Rebuild By Design broke ground last year and the ResilienCity Park was completed. He also noted that the expansion of the South West Resiliency Park will begin construction this year, and another resiliency park at 800 Monroe is also in the pipeline for the not-to-distant future.
Following up on the Vision Zero initiatives, Bhalla outlined a plan to begin construction of the Sinatra Drive redesign project, saying it will transform the waterfront boulevard to include a protected bike lane connecting to 11th and Fourth Streets, raised pedestrian crossings, new green infrastructure, and over 100 new trees.
He also discussed a plan to implement a Vision Zero project on Willow Avenue, a street he described walking along as a “scary experience.”
“The reality is that Willow Avenue – home to our cherished seniors at Fox Hill and children attending Wallace Elementary School - is a road segment on our high-crash network,” said Bhalla.
“That’s why we will soon begin a planning process to move forward with improvements along this gateway, a public planning process we look forward to working with you on - in the near future,” he added.
Near the end of his speech, Bhalla spoke on the hot-button topic of e-bike delivery riders using sidewalks, saying tackling this issue was another Vision Zero initiative.
“We need to maintain our streets and sidewalks as a safe place for all who use them,” he said, adding his appreciation of city council members who have sponsored an ordinance that would require them to be licensed with the City, wear a high-vis vest, and take a mandatory test on road safety laws.
Bhalla added that he looked forward to an ordinance that is “fair and equitable and requires delivery apps to do their fair share in educating and holding their workers accountable.”
“In closing, Hoboken's success is not just about physical development," Bhalla said. "It is about how what we build together reflects a collective community spirit that embraces joy, diversity, justice, and the empowerment of each and every one of our friends and neighbors, our families and loved ones, who call this special city home.”
]]>HOBOKEN, NJ - The Hoboken Shelter has invited residents to attend its Back to the 80s Dance Party at the Kolo Klub on April 12th to support its mission of helping guests move into their own homes.
This will be the first year the Hoboken Shelter is hosting its dance party at the Kolo Klub where attendees will get to party like it's 1985 with the DJ playing all the era’s classic hits, enjoy free hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar to round out the highlights.
The Hoboken Shelter is encouraging guests to show up 1980s style by donning their favorite outfits from the era for a costume contest that includes prizes such as tickets to the Liberty Science Center After Dark event.
Hoboken Shelter Executive Jaclyn Cherubini said she is “looking forward to ‘bust a move’ with you at the 80s Dance to help our guests MOVE into their own homes!”
The Hoboken Shelter provides 500 meals daily, houses 50 people nightly, and hosts 1000 showers weekly. In 2023, the Shelter helped transition 145 guests off the streets and into homes of their own, provided over 167,000 meals, and hosted over 7000 hours of service from its community of volunteers.
Proceeds from the Back to the 80s Dance Party will allow the Shelter to carry on the mission it says it has had since opening its doors in 1982: ending homelessness and hunger one person at a time.
Tickets for the Back to the 80s Dance Party are available for purchase online at $50 per person and at the event itself at $60 per person. Tickets are also a perk of sponsorship at all levels, including 30 tickets for those at the top sponsorship level.
For more information about the Back to the 80s Dance Party visit: hobokenshelter.org/80s- dance-party.
For more information about the work of the Hoboken Shelter and how to support it visit: hobokenshelter.org.
]]>HOBOKEN, NJ - A large scale indoor market is coming to Uptown Hoboken soon.
The Brooklyn-based Dumbo Market is expanding into New Jersey with a location in Uptown Hoboken under the name ‘Urban Market’ and is expected to open by the end of spring.
Construction work is ongoing inside a building on the 14th block of Washington Street and there is large signage on the outside of the walls that states, ‘Urban Market Hoboken Coming Soon.’
Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher, who represents the Second Ward where Urban Market is opening, said the market is expected to open in late spring and that a business is not permitted to put up a ‘Coming Soon’ sign unless they are in fact opening up soon.
Speaking on Instagram Live, Fisher said a new Dumbo-style market would be an exciting addition to the Second Ward which is the largest residential district in Hoboken.
Fisher also noted that Urban Market will be the first business in Hoboken required to compost all of their food waste and that the owners had given assurances that they would do so. This will help alleviate concerns about the new market contributing to Hoboken's prevalent rat problem, Fisher added.
Urban Market will join a number of other large grocery chains available in Uptown Hoboken, with others including Shoprite and Trader Joes.
]]>HOBOKEN, NJ - A set of brothers from Hoboken who own a small local production company beat out hundreds of other international contestants to win a $50,000 grant to edit and shoot a film in Lower Manhattan.
Andrew and Remy Neymarc won the grant after a panel of cultural leaders in New York City viewed their original treatment for Dreamscape, a short film which the brothers say is about “a talented yet struggling dancer who faces eviction unless she is able to land a role during a life-changing audition.”
The Neymarc brothers were born in the U.S. and moved to Paris when they were young and grew up there. Now, they live in Hoboken where they own the local production company Neymarc Visuals.
"It’s an honor to be recognized by NYC’s cultural leaders and valued as filmmakers based in NJ. We’re proud to have set up our creative studio and company in Hoboken and hope to support our town and state the same way we are doing for Lower Manhattan and NYC,” Andrew and Remy Neymarc said in an email statement to TAPinto Hoboken.
“Even though we’re from France, we’ve fallen in love with this area ever since our first film and TV commercial projects. We are now more excited than ever to share with the world our passion for filmmaking in the world’s most cinematic locations,” they added.
]]>HOBOKEN, NJ - Hoboken police detectives are investigating an incident in which a man was reportedly stabbed after he and his friends confronted someone who they believed appeared to be breaking into a car.
The incident occurred on Saturday, with officers responding to the scene near the intersection of Jefferson and Fourth Streets at approximately 4 a.m., according to the Hoboken Police Department (HPD).
Hoboken police said the 22-year-old victim was taken to an area hospital for treatment where he remains in a stable condition. The individual who allegedly committed the stabbing is not from Hoboken, according to the HPD.
Detectives are investigating and ask anyone with information to contact Police Officer Samuel Flores at 201-420-2100 ext. 3104 or floress@hobokenpdnj.gov.
The HPD has also said that anyone who is a victim of or witnesses a crime should call 9-1-1 immediately and avoid confronting actors if at all possible.
]]>HOBOKEN, NJ - The Hoboken Democratic Committee (HDC) has endorsed Mayor Ravi Bhalla in his run for Congress and Rep. Andy Kim in his run for the Senate before slamming the “undemocratic process” of the Hudson County Democratic Organization (HCDO).
The HDC made its endorsements ahead of the June primary elections in which the 8th Congressional District and a New Jersey Senate seat are being contested.
Local party officials criticized the HCDO, who had previously endorsed Rep. Rob Menendez Jr and First Lady Tammy Murphy for allegedly not giving them the opportunity to participate in the county wide endorsement process.
In the wake of the dispute, Chair of the HDC Rachel Hodes said she was resigning as a member of the Hudson County Democrats after announcing the local committee's endorsements Sunday night.
"I can no longer have my name associated with an organization as dysfunctional and antiquated as the HCDO," she said.
The latest endorsements came Sunday night, with the HDC choosing to back their mayor over Menendez — the current representative of the 8th Congressional District — with 73 percent of members backing Bhalla, while 25 percent backed the incumbent. Kyle Jacey, who is also running, received support from the remaining 2 percent of members.
Kim received overwhelming support with 83 percent of HCC members voting to endorse the congressman for Senate, while his closest rival, First Lady Tammy Murphy, received 6 percent of the votes. Six percent of the breakdown went to Dr. Patricia Campos-Medina, 2 percent went to Lawrence Hamm and 2 percent voted to endorse the controversy-embroiled Senator Robert Menendez.
In a press statement, Hodes congratulated Bhalla and Kim before asserting that the local party had “affirmed their commitment to fair elections” while rejecting “the undemocratic process undertaken by the HCDO."
“The committee executed a transparent and equitable process in which members were each given the same opportunity to have their voice heard. Today’s outcome is a product of our years-long fight for transparency and equity in the political process,” Hodes continued.
“The results of tonight’s meeting overwhelmingly demonstrate the will of our committee and the prospect that democracy can be alive and well in Hudson County,” she concluded.
Chair of the HCDO, Anthony Vainieri, said he was unable to ask Bhalla about the endorsements because of his run for Congress against the committee's candidate.
"I’m sorry she feels that way. I wish her luck," said Vainieri, regarding Hodes's resignation. "As far as the process goes, the HCDO chair always communicates directly with the mayors, many of whom are also the municipal democratic chairs. I have never made an endorsement without speaking to all of them, including the Hoboken mayor," continued Vainieri.
"It’s unfortunate that the Hoboken mayor decided to run for Congress against our candidate, and therefore, I could not ask him about the endorsement of Tammy Murphy and Rob Menendez," Vainieri added.
Hoboken's Second Ward Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher, a critic of the Administration, disputed the HDC’s assertion that they were acting in a democratic fashion and accused them of “hypocrisy."
“The Hoboken Dems squandered the chance to showcase democratic values Sunday night, instead choosing to mirror the corrupt practices they claim to oppose – a committee predominantly chosen and led by Team Bhalla insiders, a dubious secret ballot process, and even barring candidates, including sitting congressmen, from meeting committee members,” said Fisher.
“Mayor Bhalla’s involvement only underscores this hypocrisy, as he criticizes unfair processes at the county level while perpetuating them locally. Despite these advantages, it was clear to see support be revealed for Congressman Menendez's re-election in Hoboken,” Councilwoman Fisher concluded.
In their press statement, the HDC outlined that they “felt disenfranchised” following the Hudson County Dems’ announcements of their endorsements in the upcoming Primary, having allegedly not been given the opportunity to participate in any endorsement process.
Following their endorsements from the HDC, both Kim and Bhalla expressed their thanks.
“It’s an honor to have the support of the Hoboken Democratic Committee in this fight to restore integrity and deliver for working families,” stated Rep. Kim. “Democrats across Hudson County and New Jersey see that there’s a better way, and I know we can deliver change with their support, and the support of grassroots Democrats across our state,” Rep. Kim added.
“I’m so proud to have earned the endorsement of the Hoboken Democratic Committee tonight. My time in public service began as Democratic Committeeman knocking on doors 16 years ago and since then, it has been the privilege of a lifetime to represent this community - first on the City Council and for the last 6 years as mayor,” stated Bhalla.
“Now, as I run for United States Congress, having my local community's support means the world to me. Together, we’re going to deliver real change for Hudson, Essex, and Union Counties, and we’re going to offer our community a real, honest choice,” Mayor Bhalla added.
The HDC is made up of 69 elected individuals, and they cast their votes by a secret ballot, they said. According to the HDC, the committee contacted each announced campaign for the two federal offices and invited them to submit a statement seeking their endorsement. The HDC added that six of the candidates did so, and they were distributed prior to the meeting on Sunday.
]]>HOBOKEN, NJ - Hoboken’s Main Street Pops Artisan Market is back, featuring an exciting new “Be A Maker” series
Main Street Pops will kick off its fourth season of monthly Artisan Markets under the viaduct on Sunday, March 24, featuring a varied collection of talented local makers, live music and fun family-friendly activities. The launch will also include the unveiling of an exciting new "Be a Maker" series, designed to spark creativity and bring out the “maker” in all that are inspired by the markets’ talented artisans. The "Be a Maker" series will feature a variety of workshops and hands-on activities, aiming to empower individuals to transform their ideas into reality.
"We believe that everyone has the potential to be a maker," said Zabrina Stoffel, Co-Founder of the women-owned Main Street Pops. "Whether you're a seasoned maker or someone just discovering your passion for creation, our events provide a supportive and inclusive environment where creativity knows no bounds."
One of the key objectives of the "Be a Maker" series is to foster a culture of lifelong learning and creative curiosity.
"We're not just hosting events; we're building a community of makers who are passionate about creating," added Shan Gettens. "Through the 'Be a Maker' series, we hope to inspire a new generation of innovators who will shape the future through their ingenuity and imagination."
The inaugural event of the "Be a Maker" series is scheduled to take place on March 24 at Main Street Pops Artisan Market under the 14th Street Viaduct, 1401 Adams Street, where participants can dive into a day of creativity, discovery, and fun with GALASTELLA STUDIO to embroider your zodiac sign. Classes are on the hour 11-3pm and there is a $10 materials fee. Sign up ahead at Galastella.com. Walk-ins accepted as available.
Upcoming makers in the series include Blue Skies Pottery in May, Urban Arts in June, and Fred Astaire Dance Hoboken in July.
The March 24th market will also feature live music from “Two for the Road” and face painting and other family fun from Mile Square Early Learning.
For more information and to stay updated on events popping up, follow rhem @mainstreetpops or visit MAINSTREETPOPS.COM
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HOBOKEN, NJ - The number of Hoboken kindergarteners expected to enroll in the public school district for the 2024/2025 school year is likely to be the highest since 2015 and to well exceed what was predicted based on previous demographic data, according to a recent survey.
The survey was sent out to all families with four-year olds attending pre-kindergarten in the Hoboken Public School District (HPSD) and does not include children in private pre-kindergarten schools or those outside the City who may be moving to Hoboken in the fall.
Out of the 457 families who responded, 379 families affirmatively indicated that they would be sending their child to kindergarten in the HPSD, while 52 indicated they would be sending their child elsewhere which includes 12 families who are moving out of Hoboken.
A further 26 families said they were unsure yet where they would send their pre-kindergarten child in the next school year, or were unsure where that elsewhere would be.
The current kindergarten enrollment is 344, meaning that this number is expected to rise by at least 35 students.
“This is the lowest non-returning number from our pre-k-four transition to kindergarten since at least school year 2015/2016 and the largest enrollment from the same period,” said Board of Education member Malani Cademartori, who was providing the governance committee report at Tuesday’s meeting.
Cademartori also noted that this survey showed that the district was outpacing a demographic study done in 2021 which predicted there would be 346 students enrolled in kindergarten in the HPSD for the 2024/2025 school year.
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