Poetic Pages: Black Poets Speak for Juneteenth in Jersey City

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June 9, 2025

On Friday, June 13, 2025, Poetic Pages: Where Black Poets Speak will take place at the Hank Gallo Community Center in Lincoln Park, Jersey City. The event will begin at 5:30 PM and end at 8:00 PM, lasting 2 hours and 30 minutes. It is free to attend and open to the public.

This event is part of the Juneteenth 2025 celebrations. Juneteenth marks the date of June 19, 1865, when over 250,000 enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were finally told they were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been signed. Poetic Pages honor this history by creating space for Black poets to share their stories and speak openly about the past and present.

Key Takeaways

The event is free and takes place on June 13, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM at Hank Gallo Community Center, 175 Lincoln Park, Jersey City.
Three poets—ShakinDaWorld, EyeRene, and Positive Gunter—will read their poems, answer questions, and have books available to buy.
Juneteenth remembers June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Texas were told they were free, and this event honors that day through poetry and community.

Three Poets Will Perform Their Work Live

The event will feature three poets: ShakinDaWorld, EyeRene, and Positive Gunter. Each artist will present original work through live readings.

ShakinDaWorld is a multidisciplinary artist from Queens, New York. His style blends hip-hop, R&B, spoken word, and guitar. He is a Grammy-nominated guitarist and has performed with BRIC, a Brooklyn-based arts organization. He recently released a poetry book titled ShakinThesePages.

EyeRene is both a poet and a social worker. Her writing focuses on healing, empowerment, and advocacy. Her first book, Writing So the Healing Can Begin, explores her own lived experience and supports others through similar journeys.

Positive Gunter uses poetry to talk about personal growth. Her collection, Positive’s Reflections, addresses fear and shame with honesty. Her goal is to help others become more aware and confident by sharing her own truth.

Event Activities and Offerings

The night will include several activities in addition to the poetry performances.

First, there will be a live Q&A session where audience members can ask the poets about their work, giving attendees a chance to hear more directly from each artist and learn what inspires their writing.

Second, poetry books by each of the three poets will be available for purchase. These books include ShakinThesePages, Writing So the Healing Can Begin, and Positive’s Reflections.

Third, complimentary light refreshments and non-alcoholic beverages will be served to all guests.

According to the event description, the event is meant to be more than a performance. It is described as a “reclamation” of Black voices and a way to “affirm stories, honor ancestors, and amplify artistry.” The event aims to preserve Black culture and provide a platform for truth-telling and creative expression.

Location, Registration, and Contact Information

The event will be held at the Hank Gallo Community Center, located at 175 Lincoln Park, Jersey City, NJ 07304. The venue is part of Lincoln Park, one of Jersey City’s major public parks.

Registration is available online through Eventbrite at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1375126934679?aff=oddtdtcreator. While tickets are free, registering in advance helps the organizers prepare.

For questions about the event, attendees can reach out by email to [email protected].

Bayonne Gets $5.7M to Expand Head Start Program at Former Holy Family Academy

By

Moses Lookman

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June 6, 2025

Bayonne Gets $57M To Expand Head Start Program FI

The Bayonne Economic Opportunity Foundation (BEOF) has been awarded a $5,766,535 grant by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The grant will fund the renovation of the former Holy Family Academy located at 237-249 Avenue A in Bayonne, New Jersey. This facility will serve as the new home of the Stepping Stone Academy, which provides Head Start services to low-income and special needs children between the ages of 3 and 5.

The Stepping Stone Academy is operated by BEOF and is a Head Start provider. The grant was awarded to support facility improvements, specifically to house this program. The funding is part of a federal initiative to promote school readiness and overall well-being among families who rely on Head Start programs.

Key Takeaways

Bayonne Economic Opportunity Foundation received a $5.7 million federal grant to renovate the former Holy Family Academy for its Head Start program.
The renovated facility will centralize services for low-income and special needs children aged 3–5, replacing multiple existing sites.
Environmental remediation, including a $39,740 soil investigation, is required before construction proceeds on the long-vacant school building.

Renovation Plans for the Former Holy Family Academy

The building that will house the new Head Start facility is the former Holy Family Academy, which has been vacant since 2013. The City of Bayonne bonded for $2.5 million in 2017 to purchase the property. In the years following the purchase, BEOF was awarded a $2.1 million contract for renovations.

Despite these earlier allocations, the renovation project has experienced delays. The recent $5.7 million federal grant is intended to continue and complete the project. Renovations will be limited to the building’s interior; no exterior modifications have been specified.

In addition to the classrooms and facilities for Head Start, the BEOF administrative office, currently located on JFK Boulevard in Bayonne, will be relocated to the former convent building that is part of the Holy Family property.

Two existing Head Start sites currently in use by BEOF are located near the 8th Street station of the Hudson Bergen Light Rail. These sites are planned to be closed, and the properties will be sold for commercial or residential development once the new facility is operational.

Environmental Work and Soil Investigation Agreement

Environmental work has already begun at the Holy Family property, including the removal of an oil tank from the site, and further environmental steps are planned. The Bayonne City Council is expected to authorize Mayor Jimmy Davis to enter into an agreement with BEOF for a remedial soil investigation.

The soil investigation will be performed by Matrix New World Engineering. The agreement is structured for a one-year term beginning on September 1, 2024, and ending on August 31, 2025. The cost of the investigation will not exceed $39,740.

This investigation is necessary to assess the condition of the site and to comply with environmental standards before further construction work continues.

Role and History of the Bayonne Economic Opportunity Foundation

The Bayonne Economic Opportunity Foundation was established in 1965. Since its founding, BEOF has served over 150,000 clients. It is part of the National Community Action Partnership and provides various services, including early education, housing assistance, utility support, and meal programs.

BEOF’s mission is to provide services that address the social, economic, educational, and training needs of residents, with the goal of helping individuals and families achieve economic security.

In 2015, BEOF expanded several of its programs from Bayonne to include all of Hudson County. In addition to services provided directly, BEOF also assists individuals who do not qualify for its programs by connecting them with state and federal resources through referrals.

The organization currently operates Stepping Stone Academy as a Head Start provider and is the recipient of Grant Number 02CH011900-04-02 from the Office of Head Start, a division within the Administration for Children and Families under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

A disclaimer notes that the federal agency does not operate or control BEOF’s website, content, or services and that any findings or conclusions expressed by BEOF do not necessarily reflect the views of the Administration for Children and Families or the Office of Head Start.

Who’s Running and How to Vote in the 2025 Hoboken Primary Election

By

Moses Lookman

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June 6, 2025

Who Running And How To Vote 2025 Hoboken Primary Election FI

On June 10, 2025, registered voters in Hudson County will choose which candidates will represent their party in the New Jersey General Assembly election this November. The primary includes races in the 32nd Legislative District, which covers all of Hoboken and a portion of Jersey City. This year, six Democratic candidates are running for two available Assembly seats. The two Republican candidates have no primary challengers.

Voters will also have the opportunity to vote in primaries for Governor, Hudson County Sheriff, and local political committee members. To participate, voters must be registered with a political party. Unaffiliated voters may choose to vote in either the Democratic or Republican primary, and doing so will affiliate them with that party.

Key Takeaways

Six Democrats are running for two Assembly seats in the 32nd District, which includes Hoboken and part of Jersey City; only Jessica Ramirez is seeking re-election.
Election Day is June 10. Early voting runs June 3–8 at Hoboken City Hall and other county sites. Mail-in ballots must be postmarked by June 10 and received within six days.
Candidates are focusing on housing costs, public transit funding, and local infrastructure, with clear differences in experience and approach.

Democratic Candidates Running in the 32nd District

Six Democratic candidates are running in this primary. They are grouped into three slates of two, and voters may choose any two Democratic candidates regardless of slate. The current Assembly representatives are Jessica Ramirez and John Allen. Allen is not seeking re-election. Ramirez is running again and has a new running mate, Yousef Saleh.

Jessica Ramirez and Yousef Saleh

Jessica Ramirez and Yousef Saleh are running together on the “Democrats for Change” slate. Ramirez is currently serving in the New Jersey Assembly. Her new running mate is Yousef Saleh, the sitting Councilman for Ward D in Jersey City since April 2020. Saleh is 36 years old and was born and raised in Jersey City. He attended P.S. 28 Christa McAuliffe School, graduated from McNair Academic High School, and went on to complete undergraduate and law degrees at Rutgers University and Rutgers Law School.

Saleh describes himself as committed to public service, having left a corporate job on Wall Street to serve during the COVID-19 pandemic. He chairs every city budget hearing and has never missed a City Council meeting or vote. He is engaged to his fiancée, Kat, and says he is focused on issues like housing affordability, public transportation, and fair investment in infrastructure. Saleh states that he is not new to government work and that he has already been delivering results to the residents of Jersey City.

Ravi Bhalla and Katie Brennan

Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla is also running for Assembly. Bhalla has served as Hoboken’s mayor since 2018 and previously served on the City Council from 2010 to 2017. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of California at Berkeley, a master’s degree from the London School of Economics, and a J.D. from Tulane Law School. He lives in Hoboken with his wife, Bindya, and their two children, Arza (18) and Shabegh (13).

Bhalla’s running mate is Katie Brennan, a housing expert based in Jersey City. Together, they are running independently of the county political organization. Bhalla is not seeking another mayoral term and is campaigning on his local government record.

As mayor, Bhalla launched Hoboken’s Vision Zero traffic safety initiative. The city is now entering its eighth consecutive year without a single pedestrian fatality. This program has been recognized nationally, including by U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, as a model for safer urban streets.

Bhalla has also focused on climate change mitigation. Hoboken received an “A” rating from the non-profit CDP for climate leadership. The city has increased electric vehicle charging options and built “resiliency parks” designed to manage flooding.

In the Assembly, Bhalla says he would support state-level tenant protections, including a cap on rent increases for buildings not covered by local rent control laws and legal counsel for tenants facing eviction. He also wants to expand the supply of affordable housing by streamlining the approval process, ending exclusionary zoning, and supporting development near public transit.

Bhalla is against the $10.7 billion New Jersey Turnpike expansion project and supports increasing funding for NJ Transit. He says that he and Brennan are not tied to political party leaders and will instead represent local voters.

Jennie Pu and Crystal Fonseca

The third team in the race includes Jennie Pu, Director of the Hoboken Public Library, and Crystal Fonseca, the Director of Buildings and Street Maintenance in Jersey City. This ticket is supported by the Hudson County Democratic Organization, a long-standing and well-funded political group in the region. Their campaign is not described in the same level of public detail, but their organizational backing could influence turnout.

When and Where to Vote in the Hudson County Primary

Election Day is Tuesday, June 10, 2025. On that day, voters must vote at their assigned polling locations.

Early voting started Tuesday, June 3, and is available through Sunday, June 8.

Early voting hours are:

Tuesday, June 3 – Saturday, June 7: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, June 8: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

In Hoboken, early in-person voting is available at City Hall, located at 94 Washington Street. Hoboken voters may also use any early voting site in Hudson County during the early voting period.

Voting by Mail

Mail-in ballots must be postmarked no later than June 10 and must be received within six days of Election Day to be counted. Voters can check their registration, find drop-off locations, and track their mail-in ballot through the official Hudson County election website.

What Else Is on the Ballot?

In addition to the 32nd District Assembly race, Hudson County voters will also see races for:

Governor (primary)
Hudson County Sheriff
Local party committee members (two per party, per district)

Sample ballots for all Hudson County districts are available on the county website. Voters are encouraged to review their sample ballots in advance to prepare for Election Day.

How to Stay Updated or Share Election Content

Anyone interested in daily updates about local politics and news can subscribe to Patch’s free daily newsletter, which is sent around 6 a.m. every morning.

Patch also allows residents to submit local event posts, letters to the editor, or campaign announcements for free. First-time users should expect a delay of up to one day for approval.

All six Democratic Assembly candidates are being profiled by Patch. To read their full responses and statements, visit the Hoboken Patch political section.

Yankees Injury Report: Domínguez and Weaver Injured in 7–3 Win Over Dodgers

By

Paulius Kundzelevicius

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June 5, 2025

The Yankees finished their nine-game West Coast road trip with a solid 7-3 win over the Dodgers on Sunday night. However, the victory came at a cost. Two key players, outfielder Jasson Domínguez and closer Luke Weaver suffered injuries that will need further evaluation once the team returns to New York.

Domínguez left the game with a thumb injury after stealing second base, and Weaver never made it onto the mound in the ninth inning due to a sudden hamstring issue. While the team avoided being swept in the series, these two injuries became the main story by the end of the night.

Key Takeaways

Jasson Domínguez jammed his left thumb while stealing second base in the fifth inning and left the game with a diagnosed thumb contusion; he will have medical tests on Monday in New York.
Weaver began feeling discomfort in his right hamstring after pitching in Saturday’s 18–2 loss to the Dodgers. He was unable to warm up on Sunday for a planned ninth-inning appearance.
The Yankees beat the Dodgers 7–3 to end their nine-game West Coast trip, with DJ LeMahieu going 4-for-5 and Tim Hill closing the game in Weaver’s place.

Domínguez Jammed His Left Thumb During a Headfirst Slide

Jasson Domínguez, who started in left field, injured his left thumb during a stolen base attempt in the top of the fifth inning. Facing pitcher Anthony Banda with no outs and Anthony Volpe at the plate, Domínguez reached base on a walk. He then attempted to steal second base and slid in headfirst. While the steal was successful, he jammed his thumb on the base during the slide.

Domínguez remained in the game immediately after the injury and scored later in the inning on a one-out RBI single by DJ LeMahieu. However, when his turn in the batting order came around again in the sixth inning, he was replaced by pinch-hitter Cody Bellinger.

After the game, Yankees manager Aaron Boone told reporters, “He couldn’t really swing. It was serious enough for him to come out of the game.”

The team diagnosed the injury as a left thumb contusion, and Domínguez is expected to undergo further testing in New York on Monday, during the team’s off-day.

Speaking to the media after the game, Domínguez said,“I don’t think there’s much concern about it. We’re going to see [Monday] how it feels. Right now, I think there is nothing to worry about. Right now, I’m feeling better already.”

At the time he left the game, Domínguez had gone 1-for-2 with a walk and an RBI. The RBI came earlier in the game and contributed to the Yankees’ overall offense. On the season, Domínguez is batting .247 with a .766 OPS through 49 games.

An image circulated on social media after the game showed Domínguez sliding into second base with his left hand extended, without any protective gear. Domínguez confirmed he was wearing a protective mitt on his right hand, not his injured left, and said he may consider wearing one on both hands in the future.

Weaver Pulled from Ninth Inning Appearance Due to Hamstring Tightness

Yankees manager Aaron Boone had planned to use Luke Weaver to close out the game in the ninth inning, with New York holding a four-run lead. However, shortly after completing his warm-up routine in the bullpen, Weaver felt something in the middle of his right hamstring during a stretch and informed the coaching staff.

Boone said, “He had finished warming up and then when he went to stretch felt something in the middle of his hammy, so we had to kind of make a switch on the fly.”

Consequently, Tim Hill, who had warmed up earlier, was called in to pitch the ninth. Hill retired the side in order and recorded the final three outs of the game.

Boone stated that he was originally planning to bring Weaver in for a four-out save and that the discomfort was enough to remove him from consideration. “It was enough to take him out,” Boone said.“We’ll see what we have when we get home.”

Weaver has been a key contributor to the Yankees’ bullpen. He has posted a 1.05 ERA and 0.701 WHIP over 25 2/3 innings, with 8 saves in 9 chances. He began the year in a setup role behind Devin Williams but has been closing games since regaining the role in September of last season, including during the postseason.

Weaver underwent an MRI and is expected to miss four to six weeks with a hamstring strain.

Yankees Close Out Road Trip with a Strong Performance

Despite the injuries, the Yankees secured a much-needed win to close out their road trip. Ryan Yarbrough provided a steady performance on the mound, and DJ LeMahieu recorded his first four-hit game since 2021, going 4-for-5 with an RBI.

With the win, the Yankees avoided being swept in a series for the first time this season.

The team now returns to New York for a day off before opening their next series. They are also expecting to activate Jazz Chisholm Jr. from the injured list on Tuesday after he missed approximately one month with a strained oblique.

While the result in Los Angeles was a positive one, the statuses of Jasson Domínguez and Luke Weaver will be closely monitored in the coming days. Both players are scheduled for evaluation on Monday in New York.

New York Rangers Trade Plans Target Kreider, Panarin, and Miller in Major Offseason Overhaul

By

Paulius Kundzelevicius

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June 5, 2025

The New York Rangers ended their 2024–25 season with a 39-36-7 record and missed the playoffs. General Manager Chris Drury is actively working to restructure the roster to meet expectations. The focus is on three players: Chris Kreider, Artemi Panarin, and K’Andre Miller. The Rangers also have a new head coach, Mike Sullivan, following the dismissal of Peter Laviolette.

Key Takeaways

Chris Kreider has blocked trade attempts with his 15-team no-trade clause and wants to stay in New York to break the franchise’s second-all-time goal record, despite posting only 30 points in 68 games this season.
The Rangers are in talks to trade Artemi Panarin back to the Chicago Blackhawks, who need scoring support for Connor Bedard and have the assets to make a deal for the 101-point forward.
New York offered a first-round pick and a roster player for Buffalo’s JJ Peterka and is actively shopping K’Andre Miller, who is due a raise after a 27-point season and is viewed as a top trade candidate.

Chris Kreider Blocks Trade Efforts Despite Drop in Production

Chris Kreider has a 15-team no-trade clause in his contract and does not want to leave New York. He is 11 goals away from becoming the second all-time in goals for the franchise. Kreider scored 22 goals and 8 assists for 30 points in 68 games this season, with a -5 rating. In the previous season, he had 39 goals, 36 assists, 75 points, and a +19 rating over 82 games.

He has 2 years remaining on a contract worth $6.5 million annually. According to Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff, Kreider has “no interest in leaving” and is motivated to stay and break the team record.

He confirmed this during his exit interview:

“This is home for me. This is the organization that gave me an opportunity to live out my dream. I’ve developed so many incredible relationships and grown up and spent so much time in this area. So, obviously, this is where I want to be and this is the group that I want to help in whatever fashion win hockey games.”

Despite Kreider’s statement, Drury is reportedly seeking to move the contract this summer. Kreider’s inclusion in a league memo earlier this year, along with defenseman Jacob Trouba, as available for trade, confirms that the front office is exploring all options.

Panarin May Be Targeted by Chicago for Return

Artemi Panarin may be involved in trade discussions with the Chicago Blackhawks, his first NHL team. NHL insider David Pagnotta reported that the Rangers may consider sending Panarin back to Chicago in exchange for assets. Panarin began his career in 2015 with the Blackhawks and won the Calder Trophy as Rookie of the Year. He was traded to Columbus in 2017 for Brandon Saad and Anton Forsberg.

Panarin signed with the Rangers in 2019 and has been the team’s leading scorer. In 2023–24, he recorded 39 goals and 62 assists for 101 points, though they have not won a Stanley Cup during his time with the team.

Chicago is rebuilding around Connor Bedard and is looking to add elite scorers. The Blackhawks tried to accelerate their rebuild last summer with veteran players, but Ryan Donato was the only one to reach 30 goals. Three other players scored 20 or more. Chicago lacks consistent offensive production, and Panarin could fill that gap.

Chicago has both the prospects and the cap space to make a deal. While no formal trade offer has been confirmed, Panarin returning to Chicago remains a realistic scenario if Drury decides to reset the roster.

Rangers Consider Trading K’Andre Miller

Defenseman K’Andre Miller is also in trade discussions. The 25-year-old is a pending restricted free agent and coming off a down season with 7 goals, 20 assists, and 27 points in 74 games.

Elliotte Friedman reported that the Rangers are testing the market for Miller.

“It’s not a guarantee, but they are testing the market on Miller,” Friedman said on 32 Thoughts. “They want to know what it is. But his name is definitely out there.”

Frank Seravalli ranked Miller as the 10th most likely trade candidate this offseason, citing his future salary and the need to restructure the Rangers’ blue line.

One trade pitch, generated via PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool, suggested a one-for-one deal: K’Andre Miller to the St. Louis Blues in exchange for Jordan Kyrou. Kyrou scored 36 goals and 34 assists for 70 points this season. He is entering the third year of an eight-year, $65 million contract.

Miller earned $3.872 million this past season. His next contract is expected to include years of unrestricted free agency, which will raise his value.

JJ Peterka Trade Offer Did Not Materialize

The Rangers also made a serious attempt to acquire JJ Peterka from the Buffalo Sabres before the trade deadline. Frank Seravalli revealed that New York was one of “two or three” teams to submit a “bonafide, legitimate offer,” which included a roster player and a first-round pick. The specific roster player has not been identified.

Peterka, 23, had 19 goals and 32 assists for 51 points and averaged 18:14 of ice time. Even though it was a strong offer, no deal was reached. The reasons remain unclear, but the Rangers’ interest signals Drury’s willingness to invest significant assets in younger offensive players.

Sullivan Takes Over as Coach, Sets Clear Expectations

Following the missed playoffs, the Rangers fired head coach Peter Laviolette and hired Mike Sullivan, who won Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2016 and 2017. Sullivan made it clear he expects the Rangers to play with structure and discipline.

“I know there’s a lot of talent in the dressing room, but as we all know, talent alone doesn’t win championships. Teams win championships. That’s going to be our challenge from Day 1—becoming a team,” Sullivan said during his introduction.

He also pointed to the value of his previous experience.

“Having the ability to spend a decade with some of the people that I was able to work with there… I just think you take so much from those types of experiences. I hope to bring those experiences here to New York that can help me be a better coach for this group of players.”

The Greatest Soccer Managers of All Time – Ranked and Explained

By

Paulius Kundzelevicius

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June 4, 2025

In modern soccer, managers are no longer just team selectors or sideline spectators. They’re tacticians, spokespersons, architects of systems, and sometimes even therapists. Over the past 25 years, a handful of managers have done more than just win trophies. They have also changed the way the game is played, structured soccer cultures, and defined legacies for generations.

This is the definitive and fully detailed ranking of the 25 best soccer managers of the 21st century so far.

Key Takeaways

Top managers control more than matches—they control clubs. They set the style, pick the players, and shape the club’s direction.
Managers like Ranieri and Simeone proved that changing a club’s story can matter more than trophies.
Guardiola, Ancelotti, and Mourinho proved they can succeed in different countries, with different teams, and under different pressures.

25. Claudio Ranieri – The Miracle at Leicester (2015–2016)

Nationality: Italian
Age (2025): 74
Managerial Jobs Since 2000: 17
Best Known For: Leading Leicester City to the 2015–16 Premier League title against 5000/1 odds
Notable Quote: “Dilly ding, dilly dong!”

When Ranieri took over Leicester in July 2015, the club had the fourth-lowest wage bill in the Premier League. Their striker, Jamie Vardy, had played non-league soccer; N’Golo Kanté was a budget signing unknown in England; and the starting center-backs, Wes Morgan and Robert Huth, had a combined age of 62.

Ranieri instilled a basic 4-4-2, prioritized aggressive pressing, long balls, and deadly counters, and let Riyad Mahrez and Vardy produce magic. They finished with 81 points, and their title win remains the biggest upset in soccer history.

Despite being sacked nine months later, Ranieri will always be a Premier League legend.

24. Marcello Lippi – World Cup Winner in Chaos (2006)

Nationality: Italian
Trophies in the 21st Century:
- 2006 FIFA World Cup (Italy)
- 3 Chinese Super League titles (Guangzhou Evergrande)
- 1 AFC Champions League (2013)

Lippi’s crowning moment was guiding Italy to World Cup glory in 2006, beating Germany in the semi-finals and France on penalties in the final after Zinedine Zidane headbutted Marco Materazzi in extra time. Italy was unbeaten and conceded only two goals all tournament.

Later, he moved to China—a bold decision—and dominated the Chinese Super League, winning 3 consecutive titles and the Asian Champions League in 2013.

23. Jupp Heynckes – The Gentleman Who Engineered Bayern’s Treble (2013)

Nationality: German
Key Accomplishments:
- Champions League (Real Madrid 1998, Bayern 2013)
- Bundesliga (4 total)
- DFB Pokal (2013)
- First treble in German soccer history (2013)

Heynckes was fired the day after delivering Real Madrid’s first European Cup in 32 years in 1998. Years later, he returned to Bayern Munich for his third spell. In 2013, he won the Bundesliga in record time (earliest ever title win), with the most points (91), most wins (29), and best goal difference (+80) in history.

They also beat Dortmund in the Champions League final and Stuttgart in the DFB Pokal to complete the treble, knowing Guardiola was replacing him. He returned one more time in 2017–18 and won the league again at age 73.

22. Louis van Gaal – The Philosopher and Showman

Nationality: Dutch
Titles Since 2000:
- Bundesliga (2009–10, Bayern Munich)
- Eredivisie (AZ Alkmaar 2008–09)
- FA Cup (Manchester United 2016)

Van Gaal’s 21st century began poorly. He failed to qualify the Netherlands for the 2002 World Cup and was sacked from Barcelona in 2003. But in 2009, he led AZ Alkmaar to their second Eredivisie title ever.

At Bayern, he won the Bundesliga in his first season and reached the 2010 Champions League final. He was sacked in 2011 after showing his genitals to the team to “prove a point” to Franck Ribery.

In 2014, he took the Netherlands to a World Cup semi-final, including a tactical masterclass vs. Spain (5–1 win). At Manchester United, he won the FA Cup but was sacked days later. During the 2022 World Cup, he coached the Netherlands while battling prostate cancer.

21. Simone Inzaghi – The Underrated Genius

Nationality: Italian
Achievements:
- Coppa Italia (2019, Lazio)
- Champions League Finalist (2023, Inter)
- 8 wins in 9 domestic finals

Inzaghi took over Lazio in 2016 after Marcelo Bielsa resigned after one week. He led them to three top-five finishes and a Coppa Italia. In 2021, he moved to Inter Milan, where he reached the Champions League final in 2023, narrowly losing 1–0 to Manchester City. His tactical flexibility and calm presence make him one of the most respected managers in Europe, even if his name is rarely in the headlines.

20. Joachim Löw – The Man Behind Germany’s Renaissance

Nationality: German
Key Honors:
- FIFA World Cup (2014)
- Confederations Cup (2017)
- Euro Finalist (2008)
- 2 WC semi-finals (2010, 2014)

Löw guided Germany to six straight semi-finals from 2006–2016, culminating in the 2014 World Cup win in Brazil. That run included the historic 7–1 win over Brazil, the Mineirazo, and a final win over Argentina.

His last years were disappointing (group stage exit in 2018 and Euro 2020), but his impact on Germany’s high-pressing, modern style remains foundational.

19. Rafa Benítez – The Polarising Strategist

Nationality: Spanish
Trophies Since 2000:
- La Liga x2, UEFA Cup (Valencia)
- Champions League (Liverpool, 2005)
- Europa League (Chelsea, 2013)
- Coppa Italia, Supercoppa Italiana (Napoli)
- Club World Cup (Inter, 2010)
- Promotion and Championship (Newcastle)

Benítez is a master tactician with an eye for detail. At Valencia, he won La Liga in 2002 and 2004—their only titles in over 30 years—and added a UEFA Cup. In his first year at Liverpool, he won the 2005 Champions League, coming from 3–0 down against AC Milan.

His Chelsea stint in 2013 ended in Europa League glory, despite being booed every match. With Newcastle, he won promotion and stayed loyal during a conflict with owner Mike Ashley. His time at Everton and Celta Vigo ended quickly, proving his outdated man-management style often clashes with modern players.

18. Massimiliano Allegri – The Reluctant Champion

Nationality: Italian
Major Achievements:
- Serie A x5 (Juventus, 2015–2019)
- Coppa Italia x4
- Champions League finalist x2
- Over 1000 Serie A points
- 41-match unbeaten home league run

Allegri succeeded Antonio Conte at Juventus and extended their dominance. His team reached two Champions League finals (2015 vs. Barcelona, and2017 vs. Real Madrid). Allegri is the only coach in history to win four domestic doubles in consecutive seasons.

He returned in 2021, but Juventus were docked 10 points for financial irregularities—he still nearly took them to the top four. He was sacked again in 2024 after arguing with club officials during the Coppa Italia final. His pragmatic style divides opinion, but the results don’t lie.

17. Hansi Flick – The Reluctant Hero Turned Mastermind

Nationality: German
Key Trophies:
- Bundesliga x2
- DFB Pokal (2020)
- Champions League (2020)
- FIFA Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup (2020)

Flick went from Bayern Munich assistant in 2019 to head coach, replacing Niko Kovač. What followed was a clean sweep: Bundesliga, DFB Pokal, and an unbeaten Champions League campaign, including the 8–2 demolition of Barcelona.

His Bayern became the first club in history to win every match en route to a Champions League title. His Germany stint was poor, and he became the first German coach ever to be sacked after failing at the 2022 World Cup. In 2024, Barcelona hired him, and he has since led dominant wins against Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.

16. Thomas Tuchel – The Fixer of Broken Projects

Nationality: German
Key Achievements:
- Ligue 1 (PSG, 2019–2020)
- French Cup x2, Champions League finalist
- Champions League (Chelsea, 2021)
- 5 finals in 2 years at Chelsea

Tuchel succeeded Jurgen Klopp at Mainz and then led Borussia Dortmund to the DFB Pokal. At PSG, he won four domestic trophies in 2020 and reached the Champions League final. At Chelsea, he inherited a struggling team in January 2021 and won the Champions League four months later.

Tuchel also guided Chelsea to two FA Cup finals and a Club World Cup. He was sacked after a rift with Todd Boehly’s ownership. In 2023, he joined Bayern Munich, then left and was announced as England’s next manager in 2024.

15. Didier Deschamps – The Squad Whisperer

Nationality: French
Major Trophies:
- 2018 FIFA World Cup
- UEFA Nations League (2021)
- Euro 2016 Finalist, World Cup 2022 Finalist

Deschamps has led France since 2012. Under him, they won the 2018 World Cup, reached the final of Euro 2016, and lost the 2022 World Cup final on penalties. He’s the first man since Mario Zagallo and Franz Beckenbauer to win the World Cup as a player and coach.

He prioritized squad balance over star power, getting the best out of players like Olivier Giroud (who didn’t score a goal in 2018 but played every match) and Paul Pogba. “The team is the star,” said Patrice Evra of Deschamps.

14. Lionel Scaloni – From No One to Number One

Nationality: Argentine
Honours:
- Copa América 2021
- Finalissima 2022
- FIFA World Cup 2022

Initially mocked by Diego Maradona, who said, “He can’t even direct traffic,” Scaloni went on to do what no Argentina manager had done since 1986—win the World Cup.

He built his team around Lionel Messi, employed five different formations in seven matches, and won the Copa América in 2021. Messi praised him: “Scaloni knows how to suffer when he must suffer… He leaves nothing to chance.”

13. Roberto Mancini – The Elegant Enforcer

Nationality: Italian
Key Titles:
- Premier League (Man City, 2012)
- Serie A x3 (Inter)
- FA Cup (2011), Euro 2020 (Italy)

Mancini brought Manchester City their first league title in 44 years in 2012, scoring twice in stoppage time to beat QPR on the final day—he managed Inter to three league titles and Italy to a Euro 2020 triumph, winning the final against England at Wembley.

In 2022, Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup, and Mancini stepped down. He then took over Saudi Arabia’s national team, further cementing his nomadic, yet successful path.

12. Unai Emery – The Europa League Collector

Nationality: Spanish
Honours:
- Europa League x4 (3 with Sevilla, 1 with Villarreal)
- Ligue 1 (PSG, 2017–18)
- Champions League qualification with Aston Villa (2023–24)

Emery’s meticulous tactics led Sevilla to three straight Europa League wins. At PSG, he reclaimed Ligue 1 but suffered the infamous 6–1 loss to Barcelona. At Arsenal, he reached the 2019 Europa League final but was sacked months later.

He won the 2021 Europa League with Villarreal—his fourth, a record—beating Manchester United. In 2023–24, he led Aston Villa to Champions League qualification and beat Bayern Munich in Europe.

11. Arsène Wenger – The Professor Who Revolutionised English Soccer

Nationality: French
Arsenal Achievements Since 2000:
- Premier League (2001–02, 2003–04)
- FA Cup x5 (2002, 2003, 2005, 2014, 2015, 2017)
- Champions League Finalist (2006)
- Unbeaten League Season (2003–04)

Wenger ushered in a new era of fitness, nutrition, and style in English soccer. His ‘Invincibles’ of 2003–04 remain the only Premier League team to go a season unbeaten. Between 2000 and 2017, Wenger led Arsenal to 19 consecutive Champions League qualifications; plenty of people regard him as one of the best soccer managers of all time.

Though he endured a 9-year trophy drought, he finished with 7 FA Cups, a record at the time. His greatest legacy may be the Emirates Stadium, symbolizing Arsenal’s transformation into a global brand. Sir Alex Ferguson famously said:“Arsène transformed Arsenal fantastically.”

10. Antonio Conte – The Short-Term Serial Winner

Nationality: Italian
Titles Since 2010:
- Serie A x4 (Juventus x3, Inter x1)
- Premier League (Chelsea, 2016–17)
- FA Cup (2018)

Conte is the go-to manager for instant impact. He took Juventus from seventh to champions in his first year, won the Premier League with Chelsea with a record 30 wins, and led Inter to their first Scudetto in 11 years.

His time at Tottenham saw a miraculous top-four finish, but his tenure ended in a sensational press conference tirade where he accused players and owners of lacking ambition.

Despite never going past the Champions League quarter-finals, Conte’s domestic records are elite. In 2024, he took over Napoli, aiming for his third Serie A title with a third club.

9. Luis Enrique – The Rebuilder of Barcelona and Spain

Nationality: Spanish
Trophies with Barcelona:
- La Liga x2 (2014–15, 2015–16)
- Copa del Rey x3
- Champions League (2015)
- Super Cup, Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup

Luis Enrique took over a fractured Barcelona in 2014 and built one of the most feared teams in history. The MSN trio—Messi, Suárez, Neymar—fired the club to a historic treble in 2015. He won 9 trophies in 3 seasons, tying with Guardiola’s early success.

He later led Spain to the Euro 2020 semi-final and returned to club football in 2023 with PSG, winning Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France in his first season.

8. Vicente del Bosque – The Silent Winner

Nationality: Spanish
Major Titles:
- Champions League x2 (Real Madrid)
- La Liga x2
- World Cup (2010), Euro (2012)
- UEFA Super Cup, Intercontinental Cup

Del Bosque won 7 trophies in 3.5 seasons at Real Madrid, including the 2000 and 2002 Champions Leagues. Sacked in 2003 (a day after winning La Liga), he proved his worth by leading Spain to their first World Cup (2010) and then the 2012 Euro title, completing a golden era.

He managed the most gifted squad in history—with Xavi, Iniesta, Casillas, Ramos—and yet, remained humble, unflappable, and loved by his players.

7. Diego Simeone – The Relentless Warrior of Atlético

Nationality: Argentine
Key Titles:
- La Liga x2 (2014, 2021)
- Europa League x2
- Champions League Finalist x2 (2014, 2016)
- Copa del Rey (2013)

When Simeone took over Atlético Madrid in 2011, they were closer to relegation than Real Madrid. In the 12 full seasons since, Atlético has finished in the top 4 every year, reached 2 Champions League finals (both lost to Real Madrid in heartbreaking fashion), and lifted 8 trophies.

His ‘Cholismo’ identity—defensive grit, loyalty, counter-attacks—became synonymous with the club. Under him, they moved into the Wanda Metropolitano and became financially and competitively stable. He’s the longest-serving manager in La Liga history.

6. Zinedine Zidane – The Calm Collector of Cups

Nationality: French
Major Trophies:
- La Liga x2
- Champions League x3 (2016, 2017, 2018)
- Supercopa de España x2
- UEFA Super Cup x2
- FIFA Club World Cup x2

Zidane’s first coaching job was at Real Madrid, and he won 3 straight Champions League titles, a feat never accomplished before. He was often accused of being lucky, but managing egos like Cristiano Ronaldo, Ramos, and Bale in Madrid’s pressure cooker is anything but easy.

After his resignation in 2018, Real collapsed. He returned in 2019 and won another La Liga title in the pandemic season. In total, he managed 263 matches and won 11 major trophies in 5 seasons.

5. Jürgen Klopp – The Visionary Who Awakened Sleeping Giants

Nationality: German
Trophies Since 2010:
- Bundesliga x2 (Dortmund)
- DFB Pokal
- Premier League (Liverpool, 2019–20)
- Champions League (2019)
- FA Cup, League Cup, Super Cup, Club World Cup

Klopp, easily one of the most successful soccer managers, broke Bayern Munich’s monopoly with Borussia Dortmund, winning back-to-back Bundesliga titles in 2011 and 2012 and reaching the 2013 Champions League final. At Liverpool, he revived a broken club, winning their first league title in 30 years, the Champions League, and reaching three UCL finals.

Under Klopp, Liverpool became a global identity of pressing, speed, and emotion. When he announced his departure in 2024, tributes poured in from all corners of soccer.

4. José Mourinho – The Self-Proclaimed Special One

Nationality: Portuguese
Major Honors:
- Champions League x2 (Porto 2004, Inter 2010)
- League Titles in 4 Countries
- UEFA Cup, Europa League, Conference League

Mourinho introduced himself to England in 2004 as “The Special One” and immediately won the Premier League with a record 95 points. He’s the only manager to win the Champions League with two clubs from different countries.

His Inter team of 2010 won the Italian treble, his Chelsea side was the most dominant in the league’s early 2000s, and he delivered Roma their first European trophy in 2022 (Conference League).

Though his style has declined, Mourinho remains soccer’s greatest showman and most successful pragmatist.

3. Sir Alex Ferguson – The Empire Builder

Nationality: Scottish
Trophies Since 2000:
- Premier League x6 (2000–13)
- Champions League (2008)
- FA Cup, League Cups x4, Club World Cup

Even if we only count Sir Alex Ferguson’s 21st-century accomplishments, he still outperforms most. He beat back Arsenal, Chelsea, and Man City, reimagined United squads every 4–5 years and made United the most dominant team in Europe for over a decade.

His retirement in 2013 left a void the club has never filled—7 managers in 11 years later, the club remains in search of that consistency. Fergie was soccer’s ultimate long-term visionary and short-term winner.

2. Carlo Ancelotti – The Ultimate Player’s Manager

Nationality: Italian
Record:
- 5 Champions League Titles (AC Milan x2, Real Madrid x3)
- League Titles in England, Spain, Germany, France, and Italy

Ancelotti is the only manager in soccer history to win all five major European leagues. His ‘quiet leadership’, as he called it, is his strength. He may receive criticism for being “too soft,” but no one can ignore his record.

In his second stint at Real Madrid, he’s added 2 La Liga titles, 2 Champions Leagues, 2 Spanish Super Cups, 2 UEFA Super Cups, and 2 FIFA Club World Cups since 2021. After a low-profile stint at Everton, he returned to Madrid and immediately re-established himself at the top of European soccer.

1. Pep Guardiola – The Tactician Who Transformed Soccer

Nationality: Spanish
Career Since 2008:
- La Liga x3 (Barcelona)
- Bundesliga x3 (Bayern)
- Premier League x6 (Man City)
- Champions League x3 (2009, 2011, 2023)
- Club World Cup x4
- UEFA Super Cup x4

Guardiola has won 12 league titles in 14 seasons. His Barcelona team (2008–12) was arguably the greatest ever, his Bayern Munich broke German records, and at Manchester City, he built the most dominant English team in history.

In 2023, he won the treble, and in 2024, City became the first English club to win four consecutive league titles.

P.S. You might like to know about the best soccer players to ever grace the pitch.

Hoboken to Present Plans for Willow Avenue and Tom Olivieri Park

By

Moses Lookman

-

June 3, 2025

On June 5, Hoboken will host a public workshop from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Wallace Elementary School, 1100 Willow Avenue, to present and gather input on two major projects: safety improvements along Willow Avenue from 11th to 16th Streets and a renovation of Tom Olivieri Park at 1225 Willow Avenue.

The meeting will start with presentations, followed by an open house where attendees can speak with city staff and project designers. The projects support Hoboken’s goals to eliminate traffic deaths and improve public spaces.

Key Takeaways

Willow Avenue will undergo a safety-focused redesign after 31 injury-causing crashes between 2019 and 2021.
Tom Olivieri Park will be renovated into an inclusive, accessible play space with $1.5 million in grant funding.
The public can review and comment on both projects at a June 5 workshop at Wallace Elementary School.

Willow Avenue Redesign Targets High-Injury Corridor

The Willow Avenue Vision Zero Safety Improvements Project targets a corridor with frequent crashes. Between 2019 and 2021, the area saw 31 crashes causing injuries, including seven pedestrians and four bicyclists. Hoboken’s Vision Zero Action Plan lists Willow Avenue between 14th Street and the Weehawken border as a high-crash segment. From 2014 to 2018, this section was responsible for 40% of traffic injuries and deaths citywide. The 14th Street intersection recorded ten or more crashes during that period.

The city and Hudson County secured $1.39 million in federal and state grants through the Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program (TAP) to fund the redesign. The goal is to make the street safer for all users, including students at Wallace Elementary, seniors at Fox Hill Gardens, and commuters using NJ Transit bus stops and Citi Bike.

Planned improvements include protected bike lanes, curb extensions, ADA curb ramps, high-visibility crosswalks, pedestrian refuge islands, and leading pedestrian intervals at traffic signals. The redesign follows standards from the Hoboken Street Design Guide, NACTO, AASHTO, NJDOT, and the ADA Access Guide.

Hudson County is also evaluating a bike lane connection to the 14th Street Viaduct as part of the county’s broader transportation network. The project ties into Hoboken’s Green Circuit, a planned network of bike- and pedestrian-friendly routes across the city.

The timeline includes:

June 5, 2025: Public design charrette
June 25, 2025: Virtual public information session
Fall 2025: Complete preliminary design
Winter 2026: Begin final design
2027: Start construction
2028: Complete construction

Tom Olivieri Park to Become Inclusive, Sensory-Friendly Space

Tom Olivieri Park, a 5,000-square-foot park at 1225 Willow Avenue, will undergo a full renovation supported by $1.5 million in grant funding. The park currently includes trees, murals, and a playground, but the redesign will make it fully accessible and improve its facilities.

Planned upgrades include a new safety surface, spray park, prefabricated restroom, new lighting, landscaping, fencing, and modern park furniture. The redesign aims to create an inclusive and sensory-rich environment for children and families.

The two existing murals will remain. One is “Flight” by Rorschach, and the other honors Tom Olivieri, a local tenants’ rights advocate.

The city began collecting public input in January 2025 through an online survey. The preliminary design will be shown at the June 5 meeting. The final design will be released later this summer, following review of community feedback.

Projects Aligned with Vision Zero and Climate Goals

These efforts support Hoboken’s Vision Zero target of eliminating traffic fatalities by 2030 and its Climate Action Plan to become carbon neutral by 2050. With more than 75% of residents commuting without a car, walkable streets and accessible public spaces are essential.

The Willow Avenue redesign also supports future development near 15th and 16th Streets, where new housing and commercial projects are underway.

For details on Vision Zero, visit www.vzhoboken.com. For the Climate Action Plan, visit www.hobokennj.gov/resources/greenhouse-gas-emissions-inventory-and-climate-action-plan.

Bayonne Hometown Fair 2025: A Full Day of Free Rides, Food, and Local Fun

By

Moses Lookman

-

June 3, 2025

The 2025 Bayonne Hometown Fair is officially set to take place on Saturday, June 7, 2025, and will run from 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. The fair will be held on Broadway, stretching from 21st Street to 26th Street, and will feature free mechanical rides, bounce houses, two stages of live entertainment, 84 vendors, and a brand-new rock climbing wall.

There is no rain date for this event. However, fair organizers say they will make every possible effort to continue or resume activities on the scheduled day in case of bad weather.

This year’s fair is organized by the Bayonne Heritage Association, a non-profit group created in 2024 to host community events such as fairs and parades. The event is being run in partnership with the City of Bayonne and Mayor Jimmy Davis.

Key Takeaways

The Bayonne Hometown Fair will take place on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. along Broadway between 21st and 26th Streets.
This year’s fair features 84 vendors, two live entertainment stages, a 55-foot Ferris wheel, a new rock wall, and free mechanical and inflatable rides.
Organized by the Bayonne Heritage Association with support from Mayor Jimmy Davis and city departments, the fair is funded through vendor fees and local sponsors.

84 Vendors Lining Broadway from 21st to 25th Streets

The fair will host 84 vendor spaces located along Broadway from 21st Street to 25th Street. These spaces will be filled by local businesses, organizations, and artisans from Bayonne and neighboring towns.

Vendors will be selling or showcasing a wide range of products and services, including:

Clothing, including handmade and printed apparel
Jewelry, including custom and handcrafted pieces
Artwork and paintings by local artists
Small toys and collectibles for children
Pet products such as leashes, toys, and treats
Home décor, including candles, crafts, and design pieces

In addition to merchandise, vendors will also include local banks, real estate offices, home improvement companies, children’s services providers, and non-profits offering information, free materials, and promotional giveaways.

A Full Menu of Local Food Options

Visitors are encouraged to arrive hungry. The fair will offer a long list of food vendors serving meals and snacks throughout the day.

Available food includes:

Sausages
Hot dogs
Empanadas
Pulled pork sandwiches
Corn on the cob
Cheesesteaks
Grilled kabobs
Kettle corn
Zeppoles
Cotton candy
Pastries
Doughnuts
Ice cream

Food will be available from both vendors and food trucks stationed along Broadway.

Two Performance Stages for Music and Entertainment

The fair will have two live performance stages.

The Main Stage, located on East 23rd Street by Church Lane, will feature professional musical performances throughout the day. The schedule is as follows:

11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. – Opening Ceremony
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Doc Watson and Ambrosia
1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. – Break Time
2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. – Jive Stock
4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. – South End
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. – She Said No

The Community Stage, located on the east side of Broadway between 22nd and 23rd Streets, will showcase Bayonne-based performers, including:

Dance schools
Karate schools
Musical groups
Acting troupes
Professional children’s entertainers

These stages run independently, giving fairgoers entertainment options throughout the entire day.

Free Mechanical Rides and Inflatable Attractions

This year, all mechanical rides and bounce houses will be completely free for children and families. The mechanical rides, including a 55-foot Ferris wheel, are provided by a ride company that has returned each year. Tickets are not required in 2025, thanks to sponsorship from the City of Bayonne’s Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ). Rides will be centrally located near 23rd Street.

The inflatable rides (bounce houses) will be available between 21st and 22nd Streets, also provided at no cost by the Bayonne UEZ.

Additionally, a new rock wall will be available for climbing. This is the first year the rock wall has been included in the fair and is expected to be a highlight.

Games, Contests, and Character Entertainment

Fairgoers can expect a return of carnival games, which were added to the fair in 2019. These include the Candy Wheel and Water Gun Race, both of which will be scattered along Broadway.

The Donut Eating Contest, also introduced in 2019, will take place again, including two rounds—one on Saturday and another on Sunday. Contestants will eat trays of sprinkled donuts provided by Judicke’s Bakery. The winner receives a Donut Trophy and a free one-month gym membership from Retro Fitness.

Children and families can stop by the Bayonne Hometown Fair Association Tent, just north of 23rd Street, for free entertainment, including:

Live storytelling sessions
Photo opportunities with characters like Mickey Mouse and Peppa Pig
Balloon artists
Caricature artists

Beer Garden Operated by the Knights of Columbus

Managed by the Knights of Columbus, the Beer Garden will be located in front of the Main Stage on East 23rd Street. Adults can enjoy cold beverages inside the clearly marked and secured beer garden area, though alcohol must be consumed within the designated boundaries.

Street Closures and Transportation

On Saturday, June 7, Broadway from 21st Street to 26th Street will be closed to traffic from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The City of Bayonne will post No Parking signs in advance to ensure vendors and emergency vehicles can access the fair space.

For out-of-town visitors, the fair is easy to reach by public transit. The nearest Hudson-Bergen Light Rail station is located at 22nd Street and Avenue E, just a short walk from the event.

Behind the Scenes: Volunteers, Costs, and Community Support

The Bayonne Hometown Fair exists today because of grassroots efforts that started in 2013, when local business owner Carrissa Golomb, of Reese’s Hair Pieces on 24th Street, began petitioning to bring the fair back. Although she received strong community support, she couldn’t get approval from the city until Mayor Jimmy Davis was elected in 2014. By summer 2015, the Bayonne Hometown Fair Association was formed, and the fair officially returned.

Today, the fair is more compact than in previous decades, which helps people move more easily through the attractions. This layout removes long gaps between activities and keeps the streets full of energy from start to finish.

The fair has an annual budget of over $40,000. About half of this budget goes to live entertainment, including performance fees, sound systems, stage equipment, and staff. In 2019, nearly 25% of the budget was spent on adding just two game trailers.

Funding comes from vendor fees, which cover about half of the costs.The remaining funding comes from donations and sponsorships by local businesses. Major sponsors include:

RWJ Barnabas (Platinum Sponsor)
CarePoint Health
BCB Community Bank
Bayonne Exterminating
R Kellner Agency
McCabe Ambulance, which provides on-site medical coverage

All members of the Bayonne Heritage Association work on a volunteer basis, meaning no salaries nor office rent is paid. Meetings are often held at the volunteers’ businesses. The fair also supports Bayonne businesses through vendor discounts, including the Bayonne Discount for residents and the Brick and Mortar Discount for those with storefronts in the city limits.

City departments also contribute major support. The Bayonne Police Department, Fire Department, Office of Emergency Management, Department of Public Works, Department of Health, and Fire Prevention all help keep the fair safe and clean. The UEZ funds the free rides and Dunk Tank on 24th Street, which is open to non-profits to raise money.

ArtHaus Weehawken Opens Full Summer Music and Art Programs for Young Creators

By

Moses Lookman

-

June 2, 2025

ArtHaus, located at 4700 Park Avenue in Weehawken, New Jersey, is now accepting sign-ups for its Summer Youth Music and Art Programs. These programs are for kids and teens between the ages of 8 and 18 and will take place from July 7 to August 29, 2025.

Classes run Monday through Friday, and each day goes from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. There are both full-day and half-day options, so families can choose what works best. The program takes place right at ArtHaus, which is Hudson County’s newest center for young artists and musicians.

ArtHaus was started by Frank Jackson, a nonprofit leader who has been running art and music programs for over 20 years. He has worked with communities across New York City and now brings that experience to Hudson County.

Key Takeaways

ArtHaus’s Summer Program runs July 7 – August 29, Monday–Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM, offering full- and half-day sessions in music, DJ, production, and visual arts.
Students ages 8 to 18 can explore piano, guitar, DJing, music production, painting, collage, and photography, guided by professionals in small, supportive groups.
Early bird registration costs $699/week for full days, available until June 1, with flexible drop-in and half-day options also offered.

Program Schedule and Weekly Sessions

The summer program is made up of weekly sessions. Students can sign up for one week or several. Each week is a separate class, so it’s okay to join for just part of the summer.

The weekly sessions are:

July 7 – July 11
July 14 – July 18
July 21 – July 25
July 28 – August 1
August 4 – August 8
August 18 – August 22
August 25 – August 29

Program hours are:

Full day: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Half day (morning): 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Half day (afternoon): 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Students will be placed in groups based on age:

Ages 8–12
Ages 13–17

Each group will have only 6 to 8 students, so the teachers can give each child personal attention.

Music and DJ Classes for All Skill Levels

ArtHaus offers several music programs that let students learn, practice, and create in fun and simple ways.

DJ Program

In the DJ program, students will learn how to use real DJ gear to mix music. They will learn how to spin, scratch, and blend songs, starting from basic skills and moving up to more advanced techniques.

Music Production

In music production, students will learn how to make their own songs. They will use industry standard software, such as Ableton Live and Logic Pro, and learn how to produce, mix, and master a track.

Music Lessons

Kids and teens can also choose music lessons in piano, guitar, voice, or music theory. These lessons focus on helping students learn how music works, how to read notes, and how to play with confidence.

Hands-On Visual Art for Young Creators

ArtHaus also offers a visual arts program that includes painting, collage, drawing, and photography.

Painting and Drawing

Students will work with materials like watercolors, charcoal, and pastels. They’ll learn how to use color, draw shapes, and plan their artwork with good composition and design.

Collage and Mixed Media

In this class, kids will combine paper, fabric, and found materials to make original art. This helps them think creatively and come up with their own style.

Photography

Photography students will learn how to use a camera, take better pictures, and edit their photos. They’ll learn to focus, frame shots, and use light.

At the end of the summer, ArtHaus will host a student art show. Everyone will get to display what they’ve made during the program.

Program Prices, How to Sign Up, and Who to Contact

ArtHaus offers several payment options so families can pick what works best.

Program Costs

Full-day weekly: $650
Half-day weekly: $425
Daily full-day drop-in: $150
Daily half-day drop-in: $90

Early Bird Discount

Families who register before June 1, 2025, can get the early bird rate of $699 per week (plus tax) for full-day programs in music and DJ.

How to Register

Registration is open now at arthaushudson.com. The registration form asks for:

Student’s full name
Age and contact information
Emergency contact details
Weeks selected for enrollment
Any disabilities or medical needs
Parental consent if under 18
Permission for student photos or videos, if applicable

If families have questions, they can email ArtHaus at [email protected] or call 551-327-6449 for assistance.

ArtHaus All Year Long

Even after summer ends, ArtHaus will keep offering programs. Starting in September 2025, ArtHaus will offer private and small group lessons during the school year. These classes will be for beginners and advanced students in music, DJ, and visual art.

ArtHaus also hosts art shows, weekend classes, and creative writing workshops. The ArtHaus Gallery features art by both local and international artists. All of this happens at the same Weehawken location.

Yankees Injuries Update: Jazz Chisholm Close to Return, Cruz and Gil Progressing

By

Paulius Kundzelevicius

-

June 2, 2025

The New York Yankees are winning games, holding first place in the American League East with a 32-20 record. They are six games ahead of the Tampa Bay Rays and have the second-best record in the American League. Even though the team is winning, they’ve been dealing with injuries to several key players.

Before Monday night’s game against the Angels in Anaheim, Yankees manager Aaron Boone shared the latest on nine players on the injured list. General Manager Brian Cashman also provided updates during a radio interview. Here is the full report on each player’s injury and recovery progress.

Key Takeaways

Jazz Chisholm is expected to return in the first week of June after recovering from a high-grade oblique strain with three muscle tears.
Luis Gil is set to resume mound work this week, targeting a July return after missing over 50 games due to a right lat strain.
Fernando Cruz may rejoin the bullpen next week, pending a successful bullpen session and possible live batting practice in Anaheim.

Jazz Chisholm Jr. — Right Oblique Injury with Three Muscle Tears

Position: Second Base
Injury: High-grade strain of the right oblique with three individual muscle tears
Injured List Status: 10-day IL since May 2 (retroactive to April 30)
Missed Games: 23
Current Status: Beginning full baseball activity
Expected Return: First full week of June

On April 29, Chisholm exited a game against the Baltimore Orioles with what was initially reported as “right flank discomfort.” Postgame, Chisholm told reporters, “I feel fine.” However, an MRI later revealed three distinct tears in his right oblique muscle. The injury was classified as a high-grade strain.

Chisholm is under a one-year, $5.85 million contract and has played 30 games in 2025. In those games, he batted .181 with a .304 on-base percentage and a .410 slugging percentage. He hit 7 home runs, drove in 17 runs, struck out 39 times in 125 plate appearances, and stole 6 bases. Defensively, he played 251 innings at second base, posting 3 Defensive Runs Saved and 3 Outs Above Average.

This is Chisholm’s second career oblique injury. He told reporters this one felt “less severe” than the first, which he suffered two years ago. “That’s why I’m really surprised in what it said,” Chisholm commented after his MRI.

On May 24, Chisholm posted a batting practice video to Instagram with the caption, “We gon have a problem.” He resumed light workouts on May 27, then traveled to Bridgewater, New Jersey, on May 28 to take batting practice with the Double-A Somerset Patriots at TD Bank Ballpark. He hit in Group 1 alongside catchers Rafael Flores and Antonio Gomez. The BP session was pitched by Somerset hitting coach Mike Fransoso.

According to Boone, Chisholm is now asymptomatic. If his hitting continues without setback, he could begin a rehab assignment on Thursday, May 30, during Somerset’s home series against the Akron RubberDucks, which runs through Sunday, June 2. Rehab assignments for position players are limited to 20 days. However, Boone suggested Chisholm may only need one or two games, supporting an MLB.com report stating Chisholm could return during the first full week of June.

Fernando Cruz — Right Shoulder Inflammation

Position: Relief Pitcher
Injury: Right shoulder inflammation
Injured List Status: 15-day IL since May 22 (retroactive to May 19)
Missed Games: 7
Current Status: Scheduled for bullpen session on May 29
Expected Return: First week of June

Cruz has been throwing on flat ground since May 23. He is scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Wednesday, May 29, in Anaheim. Boone confirmed that if the session goes well, Cruz will face live hitters in a simulated game over the weekend in Los Angeles. If there are no setbacks, he could rejoin the active roster next week.

Luis Gil — Right Lat Strain

Position: Starting Pitcher
Injury: Right lat strain
Injured List Status: 60-day IL since March 24
Missed Games: 53
Current Status: Throwing; mound session scheduled for May 31
Expected Return: July

Gil began a throwing program on April 27. According to Boone, Gil is scheduled to throw off a mound on Friday, May 31. Boone added, “Louie is doing really good. He feels really good.” If he progresses as planned, he will begin a ramp-up process to return in July.

Giancarlo Stanton — Tennis Elbow in Both Arms

Position: Designated Hitter
Injury: Tendinitis in both elbows
Injured List Status: 60-day IL since March 26 (retroactive to March 24); moved to 60-day IL officially on May 1
Missed Games: 53
Current Status: Taking live BP in Tampa
Expected Return: Mid-to-late June

Stanton traveled to the Yankees’ training complex in Tampa on May 27. He began a program that includes daily simulated at-bats and base running. GM Brian Cashman stated in a May 26 interview on SiriusXM MLB Network Radio that Stanton will stay in Tampa for two weeks of simulated games. After that, the team will evaluate whether he will begin a rehab assignment.

Boone said Stanton may not need a rehab stint if he gets enough at-bats in sim games but added, “We’ll see what we’re going to do next week, if it’s more of that or if it’s rehab assignment. We’re not quite there yet.”

Marcus Stroman — Left Knee Inflammation

Position: Starting Pitcher
Injury: Inflammation in left knee
Injured List Status: 15-day IL since April 12
Missed Games: 40
Current Status: Bullpen sessions completed
Expected Return: Late June to early July

Stroman threw two bullpen sessions during the week of May 20 with no discomfort. He had previously experienced pain during a live BP in early May, which slowed his progress. If his recovery continues without issues, he will begin facing live hitters.

JT Brubaker — Left Rib Fractures

Position: Starting Pitcher
Injury: Fractures in the left rib area
Injured List Status: 60-day IL since March 26 (retroactive to March 24); transferred to 60-day on April 1
Missed Games: 53
Current Status: Rehab assignment in progress
Expected Return: Mid-to-late June

Brubaker began his 30-day rehab assignment on May 18 with High-A Hudson Valley. In that outing, he threw 3 scoreless innings and struck out 3. On May 23, he pitched for Double-A Somerset and went 2.2 innings, giving up 2 runs (1 earned) on 3 walks and no strikeouts.

Brubaker is out of minor-league options. By mid-June, the Yankees must either add him to the 26-man roster or designate him for assignment.

Gerrit Cole — Tommy John Surgery Recovery

Position: Starting Pitcher
Injury: UCL reconstruction (Tommy John surgery on March 11)
Injured List Status: 60-day IL since March 22
Missed Games: 53
Current Status: Strengthening phase of rehab (Week 11)
Expected Return: June 2026

Cole had Tommy John surgery on March 11, ending his 2025 season – week 11 of his recovery plan. According to the Yankees’ schedule, Cole will continue strengthening his arm until at least early August. If he stays on track, he will begin light throwing during the second week of August, which will mark five months post-surgery.

Jake Cousins — Right Elbow Flexor Strain

Position: Relief Pitcher
Injury: Right elbow flexor strain
Injured List Status: 60-day IL since March 27
Missed Games: 53
Current Status: No update available
Expected Return: Undetermined

Cousins has been on the injured list since March 27 and has not appeared in any rehab games. The Yankees have not provided a new update on his condition or a potential return date.

Oswaldo Cabrera — Left Ankle Fracture

Position: Third Baseman
Injury: Fracture in the left ankle
Injured List Status: 10-day IL since May 13
Missed Games: 12
Current Status: Inactive, early rehab stage
Expected Return: 2026 season

Cabrera fractured his left ankle during a collision at home plate in Seattle in early May. He has not resumed any baseball activity and is expected to miss the rest of the season. The Yankees project his recovery to extend into the offseason.

As players like Jazz Chisholm, Fernando Cruz, and Luis Gil move closer to returning, the team could soon be even stronger. The next few weeks will be important as the Yankees work to get healthy and stay on top of the AL East.