Well folks, we made it. It’s been a year full of highs, lows, and of course, headlines. It’s been another busy week in Hudson County and we’ve got all the headlines to get you caught up. Among the highlights: a Jersey City-based nonprofit wins a statewide award; the Hoboken Shelter will receive a $260,000 grant from Hudson County; and the president of Hudson County Community College is recognized by the Hudson County Latin American Chamber of Commerce. Read on for all the news from Hoboken and Jersey City for the week ending December 24th, 2023.
A Holiday Message from the HG Team
As 2023 ends, we want to take a moment to express our gratitude to you (and let you know our OOOs are up til the new year!). It’s because of you that we are still able to do what we love to do — write, inquire, share memes (truly!), and create community.
While the last few years have presented unique challenges for us and many others, we remain true to our purpose: to shine a light on the local small-owned businesses, people, organizations, and missions of all industries and backgrounds. We aim to uplift, inform, and encourage our readers to join us in celebrating how special our communities are. Click here to read a holiday message from the HG team.
Hoboken Police Department Swears in Five New Officers
^ The Hoboken Police Department swore in five new police officers at a ceremony at City Hall attended by Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla, Public Safety Director Ken Ferrante, + Police Chief Steve Aguiar. Photo credit: City of Hoboken
Alexander Miller, Jaydan Gonzalez, Shyenna Vega, Frank Losurdo, and Nasir Willey joined the department after graduating from the academy last week. Upon completion of a field training program, they will be assigned to the Uniform Patrol Bureau which serves the Hoboken community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. “These five young men and women are the future of the Hoboken Police Department,” said Mayor Bhalla. “We thank you for the commitment you make today by taking the oath. I also thank the families of all our first responders and law enforcement officers for the sacrifices they too, make daily.”
A New Chapter for a Victorian-Era Jersey City Elks Lodge
The Jersey City Zoning Board has approved adaptive reuse plans for a building located at 81 Hutton Street. The building dates back to the 1800s and is known as The Elks Lodge, according to Jersey Digs. The new plans will see the building turned into a boutique condo building with nine units. The facade will preserved while a modern exterior will be added to the new sections.
New Pizzeria ‘Ovale’ Soft Opens Hoboken
In 2022, Hoboken was named New Jersey’s most densely pizzeria-populated city in New Jersey. For locals, this title is pretty unsurprising — our bank statements prove just how plentiful pizza options are — but perhaps what is surprising are the new pizzerias that continue to pop up, even in the face of so much crust competition. A Cliffside Park-based restaurant, Ovale, is the latest pizza joint to enter the Hoboken ring. The Hoboken Girl readers noticed signage for the eatery at 305 Willow Avenue back in November, and the spot has now soft-opened in the Mile Square. Read on for what we know about Ovale, Hoboken’s newest pizzeria.
Story Dispensary: Latest Updates on This Hoboken Cannabis Dispensary
Another Hoboken dispensary is getting closer to opening after its plans were approved at a December 5th Planning Board meeting. Story Dispensary will be located at 51-53 14th Street in Uptown Hoboken. While Story’s plans were originally approved in 2022, the dispensary’s opening has been stalled by lawsuits. Following a settlement and a rehearing of the plans, things are looking up for Story Dispensary. Read on for more about Story Dispensary in Hoboken and when it plans to open.
Team Wilderness, a Jersey City Nonprofit, Wins Statewide Award
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A Jersey City nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching teens leadership skills using the outdoors has received a Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award, according to The Hudson County View. The annual awards program started in 2000, and recognizes individuals and organizations that demonstrate commitment and leadership on a variety of environmental issues, including environmental justice, climate change, sustainability, and education. Each Team Wilderness excursion is integrated with social and emotional reflection on self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
The Jersey City Times Sues Mayor Fulop, Press Secretary, + City
A lawsuit filed by the Jersey City Times on Monday, December 18th alleges that Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop and his press secretary Kimberly Wallace-Scalcione and Jersey City have violated the publication’s constitutional rights. According to the Jersey City Times, following a May 2021 article that was critical of the mayor’s public safety record, the publication was deliberately cut out of reporting opportunities, press releases, notifications about appearances, and other relevant activities. The Jersey City Times seeks to regain access to City press information and activities.
Hudson County Community College President Recognized by Hudson County Latin American Chamber of Commerce
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Hudson County Community College (HCCC) President Dr. Christopher Reber was recognized as Education Leader of the Year by the Hudson County Latin American Chamber of Commerce (HCLACC) at the organization’s annual holiday party on December 15th. According to a press release from HCCC, the organization awarded Dr. Reber with this year’s honor because of his steadfast commitment to HCCC students and his ardent support of Hudson County’s Latino community. On receiving the Education Leader of the Year award from HCLACC, Dr. Reber stated, “As the proud leader of a Hispanic Serving Institution, it’s an honor to be recognized by the HCLACC. The honor speaks to our entire College community’s dedication and commitment to breaking down barriers and serving the Hispanic community. We take the word ‘community’ in our title very seriously. Our mission is to serve our community.”
Sane Stats for Police From Santa Festivities in Hoboken
According to the Hoboken Police Department, a weekend that saw two competing Santa-themed bar crawls was ‘typical’ in terms of crime statistics. Per Patch, four arrests between noon Saturday and 4AM Sunday took place, and only two were related to the pub events. Fourteen people were taken to the hospital by ambulance, and 34 people received summonses for violations such as drinking in public.
Updates on the Church Square Park Redesign in Hoboken
The City of Hoboken is seeking final approval for the Church Square Park Vision Plan, aiming to shape its future and guide potential upgrades. Following months of community input, the final vote was determined last night. The City has presented a final proposal to rearrange and upgrade the park without major changes to the popular recreational square. The overarching goal is to enhance the functionality of the park while maintaining its historic character. Read more for details on the meeting + the vision plan.
28 New Recruits Join Jersey City Police Department
Mayor Steven M. Fulop joined Public Safety Director James Shea, Police Director Tawana Moody, Acting Police Chief Robert Kearns, and the Jersey City Police Department to swear in 28 of the newest officers graduating from the police academy. According to a press release, 80% of the new class represents minority populations to better reflect the City’s diverse community. The ceremony took place on Thursday, December 20th.
The National Boxing Hall of Fame Announces Former Union City Police Captain Joe Botti to be Enshrined in Class of 2024
^ Joe Botti. Photo Credit: Samad Haq
The National Boxing Hall of Fame has released its list of legends to be inducted in 2024. Among those selected is retired Union City Police Captain Joe Botti, according to a press release from the organization. Joe has been involved in the sport of boxing for 46 years. He has been a fighter, trainer, manager, gym owner, promoter, and author. Joe founded and directed the Union City Boxing Club, one of the most successful boxing gyms in the United States, from 1989 to 2013.
Jersey City Police Investigating Fatal Pedestrian Collision
The Hudson County Regional Collision Investigation Unit and the Jersey City Police Department are investigating a fatal pedestrian collision that occurred on Tuesday, December 19th, 2023. According to a press release from the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office: At approximately 5:20PM, the Jersey City Police Department was notified of a pedestrian struck in the area of Route 440 and Danforth Avenue. Upon arrival, responding officers located the lifeless body of a female — later identified as Billiah Mogusu, 58, of Jersey City — near the intersection. She was pronounced dead at the scene a short time later.
Jersey City Dispensary Gardenz Greenz Opens on Newark Avenue
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According to Jersey Digs, a new cannabis dispensary has opened on Jersey City’s Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza. Garden Greenz is located at 190 Newark Avenue, at the corner of Newark and Jersey Avenues, in the space that used to be Jemma Loan, a pawnshop. Greenville local Brian Markey is behind the dispensary.
Hudson County Businesses Fined Under Consumer Protection Laws
Following a year-long investigation, the New Jersey Attorney General is fining businesses that refuse to accept cash. According to a press release, businesses that charge surcharges without disclosing them will also be fined. Several Hudson County businesses were listed among those receiving fines.
CarePoint Health Begins State Campaign for More Funding for Treating Uninsured Patients
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Local healthcare facility operator CarePoint Health says that the cost of treating underinsured and uninsured patients is putting the system at a financial breaking point, per Patch. The non-profit organization runs three hospitals in Jersey City, Bayonne, and Hoboken. It is now starting a state-level campaign for funding to bridge the gap so it can continue to provide care to this population.
Hoboken Shares Plans for Poggi Press Site
On Tuesday, December 15th, the City of Hoboken shared plans for the property located in uptown Hoboken between 15th and 16th Streets and Grant and Adams Street, known as the Poggi Press site. According to NJ.com, the proposal includes two towers and a vertical park. The ground floors of the buildings would be retail, and the residential portions would create 420 additional residential units.
Jersey City Teen Arrested in Attempted Carjacking
A Jersey City teen has been arrested in connection with an attempted carjacking that took place on December 4th. According to NJ.com, the 14-year-old was arrested on Wednesday, December 20th. The attempted carjacking incident occurred on Suydam Avenue near Communipaw Avenue.
Hoboken Runoff Election Results Certified
The Hudson County Clerk’s office has certified the results of the Ward 1 runoff election in Hoboken earlier this month, according to Patch. Paul Presinzano won with 720 votes, while Rafi Cordova came away with 553. Read more about the election here.
West Side Square Groundbreaking Ceremony for New Development in Jersey City
A groundbreaking ceremony seven years in the works took place earlier this month in Jersey City’s West Side. Per Jersey Digs, the project at 1072-1075 West Side Avenue will combine six lots into one development called West Side Square. The final project will have 477 new housing units and be two, 13-story towers.
$149 Million Contract Awarded to Design New Turnpike Bridge and Approaches in Hudson County
Plans to widen the NJ Turnpike in Hudson County took a step forward this week when commissioners approved $149 million to design a new bridge for a crossing over the Newark Bay, according to NJ.com. The work will be done by Parsons Transportation Group, Inc., which will provide the final design and preparation of construction documents for the Newark Bay bridge replacement and several approach structures. The current bridge that takes the Turnpike over Newark Bay is 67 years old.
City of Hoboken announces Adoption of the Hoboken Housing Authority Redevelopment Plan
^ The Hoboken Housing Authority Redevelopment Plan calls for the replacement of existing Hoboken Housing Authority residential units, new open space, + infrastructure upgrades to reduce flooding + increase accessibility. Photo credit: City of Hoboken
The City of Hoboken shared via a press release that the Hoboken Housing Authority (HHA) Redevelopment Plan, which will guide the Hoboken Housing Authority as it redevelops and rehabilitates its decades-old housing stock without permanently displacing current residents. The plan calls for the substantial rehabilitation or replacement of the existing 1,354 units within the HHA campus through the construction of new buildings that range from six to 12 stories tall. The plan additionally incorporates requirements for infrastructure improvements to modernize the area’s stormwater and sewer infrastructure to reduce the impact of flooding, transportation improvements to increase accessibility and circulation, a commercial corridor along Jackson Street, as well as community-focused amenities with recreation spaces including a new resiliency park along Marshall Street.
Jersey City Woman Wins Scholarship
A Jersey City resident got an early Christmas present in the form of an academic scholarship. Stephanie Beauchamp is a court-reporting student at Plaza College in Queens and was recently awarded the National Court Reporters Association Council on Approved Student Education (CASE) scholarship, according to NJ.com. Stephanie found her way to a court reporting career while working as a background extra on a TV show where she was playing the role of a typist. The scholarship is designed to honor students who have overcome adversity in their studies.
Hoboken Shelter to Receive $260K as Part of Hudson County Effort to Support Unhoused Population
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Hudson County Board of Commissioners approved nearly $2.7 million from the Hudson County Homelessness Trust Fund to be distributed among seven location organizations, according to TapInto. The money will go toward supporting the unhoused population in Hudson County. One of the organizations, The Hoboken Shelter, will receive $260,616.
FBI, Jersey City Police Asking for Help in Jersey City Woman’s 2019 Disappearance
The FBI Newark Field Office and the Jersey City Police Department are asking for the public’s help in solving the disappearance of a woman from Jersey City in 2019. According to a press release, the FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the location or recovery of Mayushi Bhagat. Mayushi was last seen the evening leaving her apartment in Jersey City on April 29th, 2019. She was wearing colorful pajama pants and a black t-shirt. Her family reported her missing to police on May 1st, 2019.
HCCC Receives $25K Grant for its Workforce Development Program
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^ HCCC Associate Vice President for Continuing Education + Workforce Development Lori Margolin
According to a press release, the Hudson County Community College (HCCC) has received a $25,000 grant for its Gateway to Innovation program. The Gateway to Innovation program seeks to provide students, alumni, community members, and employers with essential support, skills training, experiential learning, and connection to employment. The Citizens Philanthropic Foundation believes that investing in the communities where its employees live and work enriches us all.
Jersey City Man Arrested After Online Scam Costs Elderly Woman Nearly $100K
A Jersey City man has been arrested in connection with his role in an online scam. Per NJ.com, Shiva Penmetsa was charged with theft after he contacted an 81-year-old woman in Wall, New Jersey, and manipulated her into allowing him access to her computer. The woman lost nearly $100,000 in connection with the scam.
City of Hoboken Prepares to Take On Avalon Bay Over Unconscionable Rents
The City of Hoboken is prepared to take further legal action against Avalon Bay, the owner of several apartment buildings. According to Patch, attorneys for the City of Hoboken sent Avalon Bay a letter saying that residents are still being charged improper rent, and that the City could fine the company. Tenants in some Avalon Bay properties in Hoboken are subject to rent control, limiting how much the owner can charge for rent.
Satis Bistro Opening New Restaurant in Jersey City
In early 2022, it was announced that John’s Pizza in downtown Jersey City, located at 87 Sussex Street, had closed its doors. In early March of that same year, we reported that Satis Bistro, a fellow Jersey City restaurant located at 212 Washington Street that has also been operating for a decade, would be expanding into the John’s Pizzeria storefront. We now know that the new spot will be called 87 Sussex — and it will be opening at the end of January. Read on for more details about the Satis Bistro expansion in Jersey City.
North Bergen Man Saved by his Neighbor, a Retired Police Officer
A retired North Bergen police officer is still helping his community, despite not being officially on the force. According to NJ.com, Angelo Forese, 62, came to the aid of a neighbor who was experiencing cardiac arrest. The neighbor survived and Angelo was honored for his actions at a ceremony on Wednesday, December 20th.
Essex County Woman Pleads Guilty to November 2023 Crime Spree
An Essex County woman admitted her role in a one-night crime spree involving robberies and shootings in November 20023 in Jersey City. According to a press release from the US Attorney’s Office, Siobhan Chandler, 21, of Newark, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti in Newark federal court to charges related to three robberies and two shootings. Sentencing will take place in April 2024.