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BAYONNE BRIEFS

Dan Ward, BHS educator, to run for at-large city council seat

Daniel Ward, Director of the Social Studies and Library/Media Science Programs at the Bayonne School District, announced that he will run for the at-large Bayonne City Council seat in the May election on mayoral candidate Jason O’Donnell’s slate.
Ward has been a public school educator for 26 years. The current at-large City Council members are Sharon Ashe-Nadrowski and Juan Perez. Both ran and won on Mayor James Davis’ ticket in June of 2015. Both have yet to announce a run for re-election.
In a press release announcing his candidacy, Ward said, “We must put an end to the 30-year tax breaks for wealthy developers and the mortgaging of our children’s future or we will all be paying for the Davis Administration’s corporate give-aways for generations. And we need strong leadership that will work with the City’s Board of Education to look for solutions to the current budget crisis rather than the Davis Administration’s baseless finger pointing and empty grandstanding that have still left 74 school employees without their jobs and all of us, young and old, with an almost 6- percent school tax increase. Simply put, we need new leadership, and I am looking forward to working with Jason, a man of integrity, and the rest of our team to get the city we all love back working for all taxpayers.”
“I am proud to run on the same ticket with Dan Ward,” said Jason O’Donnell in the press release. “Dan is a huge part of the foundation of our community, and his dedication to all of our friends and neighbors in Bayonne is unmatched. He has spent decades trying to enrich the lives of so many with his work in our school system and volunteering his time in our community, and we are both anxious to begin the fight to get Bayonne back on track.”
In 2016, Ward was named Irish-American Educator of the Year by the Irish American League. He has served on Hudson County Community College’s Academic Advisory Board and has been a member of the Anthony K. Podbielski Memorial Essay Committee. Dan has coached the BYSA’s recreation and travel soccer programs. He is also one of the founders of the former Centerville Civic Club and has been a member of various Irish organizations throughout Bayonne. Dan and his wife, Caroline Ulivella, also an educator, are raising their two sons in Bayonne’s public schools.

Menendez, charging anti-Latino bias, still defiant in wake of mistrial

The 11-week trial of U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez ended when Judge William Walls declared the mistrial after the jury said they could not come to a verdict.
Prosecutors have not yet said whether they would re-file charges that were the result of a five-year investigation.
Menendez was charged with conspiracy, bribery, and honest services fraud in his duties as U.S. Senator, and for accepting more than $600,000 in political contributions and gifts from a long time friend Dr. Salomon Melgen. Prosecutors attempted to prove Menendez took these things in exchange for political favors to Melgen, who was convicted of unrelated charges earlier this year.
This decision by the court to declare a mistrial also came after a juror was excused and told the press about some of the discussions going on in the jury room.
Menendez grew up in Union City and served as its mayor before going to Congress.
He said, “Certain elements of the FBI and of our state cannot understand, or even worse, accept that the Latino kid from Union City and Hudson County can grow up to be a United States senator and be honest.”

Carl “The Bayonne Elvis” Senior dies at 75

Carl Charles “The Bayonne Elvis” Anderson Sr., a lifelong resident and community fixture of Bayonne passed away on Monday, November 13, 2017. Residents remember him as “the Bayonne Elvis” for driving up and down Broadway in a Chevy Astro with a supercharger protruding from the hood and yellow flames emblazoned on the side, along with musical notes, Elvis’s face, and the words, “Blast From The Past,” and “Remembering Our Favorite Oldies.”
Carl Anderson was the devoted husband to the late Nancy (nee: DeMelio) and father to Carl Jr. and Wayne Anderson.
In Carl’s memory, you can make a donation to the MFL Foundation for Cancer Prevention, found at the link for the funeral home at www.MigliaccioFuneralHome.com.
Bayonne Life on the Peninsula wrote a feature story on Carl Anderson in its Spring 2017 issue where he talked about his life, the Elvis Era, and the gratitude he received from the community.

All Saints Catholic Academy celebrates National Blue Ribbon award

Officials at All Saints Catholic Academy accepted the National Blue Ribbon Award at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. on November 7. Principal of All Saints, Sister Rita Marie Fritzen, who accepted the award, said, “Our school has a ‘wow’ factor. The things that we do here make students perform to their academic level.” Sister Rita Marie is a Sister of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities, and is in her third year as principal of All Saints. She previously served as associate director of catechesis for Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Newark.
All Saints was one of 342 schools and 50 private schools recognized from across the country and 17 in the state. National Blue Ribbon Schools are recognized for their overall academic performance or advancement in closing achievement gaps amid student subgroups. The school ranked among the highest performing schools as measured by nationally normed tests: The Archdiocese of Newark administers standardized testing in the form of Terra Nova, Third Edition. All Saints was founded in 2008 when four Catholic schools in Bayonne combined into one.

Manhattan commuters to face another round of delays

Penn Station will undergo another phase of track repairs in the first part of 2018, but rail officials are saying the disruptions to commuters will not reach the level of “the summer of hell” last August, according to NJ Spotlight. NJ Transit officials announced that there will be changes in the morning and evening schedules for the Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast lines.

Governor-elect Murphy announces chief of staff and chief counsel

Gov.-elect Phil Murphy announced Tuesday that his chief of staff will be Mayor Pete Cammarano of Metuchen, according to The Record. Murphy has also selected Matt Platkin as chief counsel. Cammarano previously served as chief of staff for Richard Codey when Codey was acting governor from 2004 to 2006. Platkin, of Montclair, worked on Murphy’s campaign, coordinating major policy positions.
Murphy also named more than 500 people across 15 committees that will submit reports and recommendations that will inform the new administration’s legislative and regulatory agenda.
Mike Embrich, a Navy veteran from Bayonne, will sit on the Military and Veteran Affairs committee. Michael Cranston, President of Bayonne Dry Dock, will sit on the Labor and Workforce Development committee.

BPD arrests local teenager for allegedly burglarizing cars, man for allegedly burglarizing neighbor

A 19-year-old from Bayonne was recently charged with two counts of burglary for allegedly breaking into cars in late October, according to the Bayonne Police Department (BPD). Abanoub Guirges allegedly stole $10 from a Jeep Wrangler parked on West 7th Street and tried unsuccessfully to enter a Ford Escape in the same area, according to a statement from the BPD. The next day, Guirges allegedly stole credit cards from a parked Honda Accord in the area of Trask Avenue. Guirges was charged with two counts of burglary and criminal attempted burglary, according to the BPD.
Meanwhile, a 45-year-old Bayonne man was arrested for allegedly stealing $3,500 worth of tools and home fixtures from the basement of a 41st Street residence on October 15, according to the BPD. Robert Connelly, of Avenue C, was charged with burglary and theft.

Will lawmakers extend caps on police and firefighter raises?

A state law that limits the pay raises police officers and firefighters can receive in binding arbitration to two percent is set to expire on December 31 unless the State Legislature acts to extend it, according to NJ Spotlight. Local officials across the state say the cap has been instrumental in keeping property taxes down.Police and firefighterunions oppose an extension.

Polls show Menendez an early favorite in 2018 Senate race

Despite recent legal problems and low voter approval ratings, Sen. Bob Menendez is “a clear favorite” for re-election in 2018, according to Harry Enten of FiveThirtyEight, a digital news site that focuses on poll analysis. Although Menendez could face a retrial after a jury was unable to reach a verdict in his corruption trial, many legal experts say that is unlikely. Meanwhile, the Republicans who have emerged as potential opponents have each raised no more than $4,000, compared with the $4 million Menendez has on hand.

NAACP honors five in Bayonne

The Bayonne branch of the NAACP hosted its 90th annual Freedom Fund dinner on November 5 at the Chandelier Restaurant, where the organization honored five community members. The theme of the dinner was “Where Do We Go From Here.”
Joseph Barbero, local teacher and business owner, was honored in the Education category. Deon Golfphin, police officer, business owner, and Iraq War veteran, was honored in the Entrepreneurship category. Rev. Gary Grindeland, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Bayonne and the vice pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Jersey City, was honored in the Church Service category. Helene J. Lee, a social worker and discharge planner at Bayonne Medical Center’s Care Point Health System, was honored for the Community Service category. David Watson, a well-known local musician and music teacher, who has worked with Alicia Keys, Mariah Carey, Christina Aguilera, India Arie, The O’Jays, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, The Police and the Sugar Hill Gang, was honored in the Humanitarian category.

6,000 Rabbis visit Bayonne

The International Conference of Chabad-Lubavitch Shluchim (Kinus Hashluchim), which draws Hasidic rabbis from around the world, brought 6,000 rabbis to Bayonne’s Harbor Pointe on Sunday, November 19 for a banquet that went from the early afternoon until midnight. Motorists may have been affected around the area of Route 440 as many buses and taxis transported rabbis from Brooklyn.

HUDSON REPORTER BRIEFS

Mark Koosau, Staff Writer
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HUDSON REPORTER BRIEFS

Hoboken launches second survey for Sinatra Drive Redesign Project

The city of Hoboken launched their second online survey to get feedback on the preliminary design concepts for the Sinatra Drive Redesign Project, with the city looking to upgrade the waterfront road. For more info, visit hudsonreporter.com/2022/06/03/city-of-hoboken-seeks-community-input-on-sinatra-drive-redesign-concepts/

North Bergen gives out T-Ball awards

About 110 kids ages 4 to 6 received participation awards in a ceremony at the Recreation Center on Wednesday, June 1 as T-Ball season reached its end. Mayor Nicholas Sacco presented the awards, along with township Commissioners Hugo Cabrera, Frank Gargiulo, Julio Marenco, and Allen Pascual, and Nick Sacco, Jr., who runs the program. All kids received presentation awards and photos with the mayor and commissioners, after which everyone got to enjoy snacks including hot dogs, chips and drinks.

Secaucus swears in third generation firefighter

Eric Kosky was sworn in as a firefighter with the Secaucus Volunteer Fire Department at the Town Council meeting in May. He will represent the third generation of the Kosky family to serve the Department. His father, Ex-chief Ronald Kosky Jr., is a firefighter with Engine Co. No. 1 and his late grandfather, Ronald Kosky Sr., was with Tower 2. His late Uncle Kevin Kosky also served in the Fire Department with Engine 1 and Tower 2. Eric joins Tower 2 and has been assigned his grandfather’s number.

Tennis court and pool access at Stevens for fully vaxxed and boosted

The city of Hoboken announced that fully vaccinated and boosted residents over the age of 5 can access the tennis courts and indoor swimming pool at Stevens Institute of Technology free of charge. The tennis courts can be accessed from June 6 to Aug. 28, while the pool will be available year-round.

Residents that want to sign up for access must first register at www.hobokennj.gov/stevenstennis to provide information and proof of full vaccination and booster dose. After approval from the city, residents must then register with Stevens at stevens.dserec.com/online/membership.

North Bergen sixth-graders celebrate anti-drug graduation

North Bergen’s sixth-grade students celebrated their graduation from the L.E.A.D. Program on Wednesday, June 1. L.E.A.D. (Law Enforcement Against Drugs) is a program designed to educate kids about the dangers of drug use by promoting healthy and safe lifestyles.

The annual celebration made a comeback on Stan Newman Field at 64th Street field after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. More than 500 sixth graders in North Bergen, who were unable to celebrate last year as fifth graders, participated in the program and were rewarded with a day of bounce houses, rock-climbing, water slides, games, activities, pizza, ice cream, and more.

Popular entertainer Lori Michaels, who has been part of the program every year since the beginning 22 years ago, was back again this year, leading the crowd in spirited singalongs. Dancers from her entertainment group also performed, to the delight of the crowd.

Officer Joe Sitty, who runs the L.E.A.D. program in North Bergen, served as host for the event and introduced the noted guests, including Mayor Nicholas Sacco, Commissioners Hugo Cabrera and Allen Pascual, Police Chief Peter Fasilis, and School Superintendent Dr. George Solter, all of whom congratulated the kids on their achievements. Joining them were many other township officials and administrators. The festivities included a raffle for six bicycles and many more prizes.

Secaucus Memorial Day parade returns

The 2022 Annual Memorial Day Parade in Secaucus was held on May 21. Despite soaring temperatures reaching well into the 90s, residents of all ages lined the streets to wave to veterans, marching bands, school and town organizations, and Mayor Gonnelli and members of the Town Council who marched to commemorate those lost in service to our nation. WWII Navy veteran Emmett Thompson was the honored Grand Marshall and Senior of the Year Renate Kern was the honored special guest.

Residents lined the streets to view the Parade that started at the Huber Street Municipal Parking Lot, proceeded to the Plaza, up Front Street,
Fifth Street and Centre Avenue and ended at Buchmuller Park. At the entrance of the park, spectators cheered as the Secaucus Concert Band played patriotic tunes. Hotdogs and much needed cold water were served to all those who attended. Children lined up for face-painting, bounce houses, petting zoos, and balloon art giveaways. Live music was provided by Broken Friday, that kept the crowds tapping their dancing feet.

Earlier in the day, the Fire Chiefs, Mayor Gonnelli and members of the Town Council gathered at Town Hall to place wreaths and honor Secaucus firefighters lost in the line of duty.

Retiring North Bergen police sergeant honored with ‘walkout’

A large crowd of police officers, township officials and employees, and residents stood outside North Bergen Police Station headquarters on Wednesday, June 1 to honor Sgt. Peter Insetta with a “walkout” on his last day with the department. Insetta began his career with the NBPD in 1994 after serving in the US Army Reserves.

Insetta’s specialized in conducting Missing Person Cold Case Investigations and training includes Arson Investigation, working with North Bergen Fire Prevention and North Hudson Regional Fire and Rescue for over 10 years. He is also assigned to the Hudson County Prosecutors Office Arson Task Force. Insetta has been awarded with 32 department commendations – most notably a Class A award for the shooting investigation at 26th Street and Grand Avenue which resulted in the arrest of the Jersey City homicide suspects.

North Bergen police honor Insetta with a ‘walkout’ on June 1.

HOBOKEN BRIEFS

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HOBOKEN BRIEFS

City may try eminent domain to turn Union Dry Dock into waterfront park

According to a press release from the city, Mayor Dawn Zimmer would like to use the Union Dry Dock property on the northern waterfront for a park.
An attorney for Union Dry Dock, a long-time business, has sent a letter (viewable with the link below) to the city stating that it is not legally able to discuss the sale of the property to Hoboken at this time.
The letter from attorney James Burke states that he does not represent Union Dry Dock in regards to parties interested in purchasing the property, but that he contacted the law firm that does, and they advised that Union Dry Dock can not engage in negotiations for the sale at this time.
As a result, the City Council will be asked to authorize the use of eminent domain at their meeting next week in order to provide the city with “tools necessary to facilitate negotiations.”
“In my experience with acquiring Block 12 for the Southwest Park and the 6-acre BASF property in Northwest Hoboken, it is not possible to acquire property without the City Council’s authorization for eminent domain,” said Zimmer.
Mayoral candidate and Councilman Michael DeFusco released a statement after Zimmer’s announcement condemning the use of eminent domain saying it “would plunge us into yet another costly litigation with a city property owner.”
DeFusco said, “A negotiation of this magnitude shouldn’t be rushed into by a mayor who already has one foot out the door.”
Earlier this year, DeFusco announced his own concept plan for the property, including an urban beach and community pool as part of his campaign.
The letter from Union Dry Dock can be viewed at: www.hobokennj.gov/docs/Union-Dry-Dock-Maraziti-9-22-17.pdf .

What’s the fate of Blimpie?

Hoboken Blimpie, the first Blimpie store, was opened in 1964. The 110 Washington St. store recently closed and was supposed to move to a new location on Fourteenth Street, but a note in their window on Washington Street speaks of problems. The sign says the store may still move to Fourteenth and Willow if they “can cut through red tape in town and work something out with the Blimpie brand owned Kahala conglomerate in Arizona that has been targeting me for product violations… such as using the Thumanns brand—that they do not recognize and want me to use.”
Kahala did not return one phone call and email by press time.

Carmelo Garcia appointed acting director of housing agency in Newark

Carmelo Garcia, Hoboken resident and former executive director of the Hoboken Housing Authority, has been appointed acting director of the Newark Department of Economic Development.
Garcia has replaced Baye Adofo-Wilson, who according to reports handed in his letter of resignation a few weeks ago.
Garcia has been serving as the chief real estate officer and executive vice president of the Newark Community Economic Development Corporation and joined the NCEDC in 2015. He previously served as a New Jersey State Assemblyman before recently stepping down.
Garcia was terminated as the executive director of Hoboken’s federally funded Hoboken Housing Authority in 2014 after a vote by the HHA’s board of commissioners and Hoboken City Council. The HHA sued Garcia in the Hudson County Superior Court, alleging that Garcia violated U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulations and broke “good faith and faith dealing” by allegedly approving or rejecting procurement contracts without the board’s consent in April 2016.
But Garcia has filed a lawsuit that claimed that Zimmer, her husband Stan Grossbard, and members of the HHA conspired to have him removed from his position because he did not support the mayor’s agenda. He also said he was discriminated against because of his race.
Garcia did not return a call for further confirmation or questions by press time. For past articles on Garcia and related subjects, see hudsonreporter.com.

Former first lady of Hoboken dies

Dorothy Cappiello passed away at Hoboken University Medical Center on Wednesday Sept. 27 at age 88. She was the wife of former Mayor Steve Cappiello for 62 years.
Steve Cappiello served as mayor from 1973 to 1985.He passed away in 2013.
Visitation will be held on Sunday Oct. 1 at Falia-McKnight Memorial Home at 533 Willow Ave from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Ann’s Church on Monday Oct. 2 at 11 a.m. She will be entombed with her late husband at Holy Cross Chapel Mausoleum in North Arlington N.J.

Hudson County CASA is seeking volunteers

Learn how to become a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer and help foster children find safe and permanent homes. The next information session will be held at the Hudson County Courthouse, 595 Newark Ave. Rm. 901 on Tuesday, Oct. 3 at 6:30 p.m.
Hudson County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) is a non-profit organization committed to advocating for the best interests of abused and neglected children. CASA works through trained community volunteers to ensure that needed services and assistance are made available to children while helping to move them toward safe and permanent homes. Hudson County CASA volunteers are everyday people who make a direct impact in foster children’s lives. They are trusted, dedicated adults who seek to improve children’s well-being. CASA volunteers get to know their assigned child and his or her circumstances and provide valuable information to the court. Judges rely on the volunteers’ recommendations to make the best decisions about the children’s futures.
For further information, visit www.hudsoncountycasa.org.

Local students raise money for Harvey relief

Lucia Mayendia, an 11-year-old student at Stevens Cooperative School, raised funds for Hurricane Harvey victims recently. Over the course of three days, Lucia and her friends organized three lemonade stands and collected $686 to send to the American Red Cross.
Lucia recruited HoLa students Catrina Kellaghan and Amanda Garen, and Stevens Cooperative students Ian and Julian Romo. The total proceeds were matched by S&P Global and a check for $1,372 was sent to the American Red Cross.
“People were just giving us money and sometimes didn’t even take a glass of lemonade,” said Mavendia. “Several people gave $10, $20, and even $50 to help Texas”.
She added the most humbling donation was from a homeless man that gave $1 from his own cup that he was collecting from.

Free ESL program at library announced

On Wednesday, Oct. 4 the Hoboken Public Library will host its first evening weekly English as a Second Language Conversation class. The free class will meet Wednesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. until Dec. 13.
The program is open for advanced beginners and intermediate level English speakers.
The library is located at 500 Park Ave and registration takes place in class.

Hoboken Comedy Festival animal charity event is Oct. 1

The Hoboken Comedy Festival’s all day block party held in the park outside Taphaus at 800 Jackson St. near the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail Station. The event will benefit the Liberty Humane Society, which is the Hudson County Animal Shelter whose services include low cost veterinary clinics, fostering of animals, and of course adoption services.
LHS will be on hand with adoptable dogs and cats, and patrons are encouraged to bring their dogs, cats, and children to the event.
A 12 p.m. kid-friendly show will take place in which children can tell jokes. Comedy festival comedians will also perform later on including Dan Frigolette.
Outdoor show has a suggested donation of $5 that goes to the Liberty Humane Society, or used purse for Purses for Nurses. For more information go to www.Hobokencomedyfestival.org.

October is breast cancer awareness month

The Urban League of Hudson County and Hoboken family planning are offering free breast exams and on-site mammograms for uninsured and under-insured women. The exams will be conducted at 253 MLK Drive, Jersey City, on Saturday, Oct. 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration is required, so call (201) 963-0300. There are age and financial restrictions.

Call for submissions for Adams Street mural project

The Hoboken Mural Arts Council is announcing a call for submissions for a mural project located at 1312 Adams St. with the theme “diversity, inclusion, and community.” The Arts Council, which includes Geri Fallo (Hoboken Cultural Affairs), Albert Barsky (Barsky Gallery), Elizabeth Ndoye (hob’art co-operative gallery), and Justine Uva (Urban Arts), was recently established by Mayor Zimmer to provide guidance and art expertise for a mural project approved by the Planning Board.
The project, which is a requirement of a Planning Board approval for the property, includes a $25,000 honorarium to the selected artist or arts group as well as paint, supplies, and scaffolding.
Three artists will be selected from all the submissions and awarded $500 each to develop a design based on the theme “diversity, inclusion, and community.” Provide submissions by Sept 30. For more information, contact the city.

Community workshop for Master Plan Reexamination

The city of Hoboken will host the first public workshop as part of its Master Plan Reexamination process on Tuesday, Oct. 10 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Multi-Service Center, at 124 Grand St.
The Master Plan serves as the guiding document for Hoboken’s land-use decisions. Municipalities in New Jersey are required to go through a process of reexamining their Master Plans at least every 10 years. For more information go to www.hobokennj.gov/masterplan.

Stack urges contributions to hurricane victims

State Sen. Brian Stack has issued a call for donations to the Red Cross to aid victims of the devastating hurricanes in Puerto Rico and Mexico.
Stack, who is also mayor of Union City, called the Red Cross a “reputable organization” and said he has witnessed their “honorable” work at the local level. He said, “Our region has many residents with both friends and family in these nations.” To donate to the Red Cross, check www.Redcross.org or call (1-800-733-2767).

Gov candidates voice support for Puerto Rico hurricane relief

The two leading gubernatorial candidates have come together to voice support of a statewide charity designed to raise funds for hurricane relief in Puerto Rico.
“New Jersey for Puerto Rico Hurricane Relief” is sponsored and spearheaded by the Puerto Rican Congress of New Jersey and leaders of New Jersey’s half-million-strong Puerto Rican community to rally behind friends and family on the island suffering in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno and former Ambassador Phil Murphy both urged New Jerseyans to support the relief fund. Visit nj4pr.org. Donations are now being accepted through the site. Supporters can also call 1-833-NJ-HELPS.

Got a story to tell? One-shot writing class Nov. 2

Do you have a piece of writing, or an idea for a memoir, novel, or script, and you need feedback on it or ideas on how to get published? Now you can learn how without crossing the river. Local novelist (and Reporter editor) Caren Lissner, whose book was made into the Netflix movie Carrie Pilby, is running a one-shot writing and publishing class at Little City Books in Hoboken, Nov. 2, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. It’s open to all stages, ages, and genres.
Participants can bring up to five pages, or just sit in. But space is limited, so register using http://www.littlecitybooks.com/get-it-out-reader. There’s a nominal fee.
Lissner has published essays and satire in the New York Times, The Atlantic, McSweeney’s, and National Lampoon, and has run seminars for adults and teens at local libraries and as part of a Scholastic Inc. program. She can be contacted via carenlissner.com.

The Waterfront Project’s 7th Annual ‘Justice for All’ Fundraiser

Hudson Reporter
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The Waterfront Project’s 7th Annual ‘Justice for All’ Fundraiser

On Wednesday November 10, from 6 to 9 p.m. The Waterfront Project will host its annual ‘Justice for All’ Fundraiser. The Waterfront Project is a civil legal services nonprofit and HUD-certified housing counseling agency that helps Hudson County’s most vulnerable residents.

It will be the first fundraiser for the nonprofit since March of 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “This year’s event is extremely important. After having to cancel our fundraiser in June of 2021 and June of 2022, we have a large budget gap to close” says Executive Director Rebecca Symes. “ We are $10,000 short of our fundraising goal, but there is still time for our community to support the event by donating, purchasing a sponsorship, or buying a ticket.” People can support The Waterfront Project by visiting https://www.thewaterfrontproject.org/justice-for-all-fundraiser/.

The COVID-19 pandemic has both drawn attention to and exacerbated housing insecurity in Hudson County. The Waterfront Project has been on the front lines keeping struggling families in their homes during these extraordinary times. They have fought illegal evictions, helped tenants and landlords apply for and obtain COVID-19 rent relief, sought emergency orders to address unsafe living conditions, and negotiated mortgage modifications allowing struggling homeowners to keep their homes.

The Waterfront Project was able to keep its doors open throughout the COVID-19 pandemic in large part because it has strong community partnerships. As is tradition, The Waterfront Project will honor three of its partners at the November 10th event. The Waterfront Project will honor McManimon, Scotland, Baumann LLC for their years of financial support and strategic guidance, Katherine Brennan for her fearless advocacy for survivors of sexual assault, and the Hudson County Department of Housing & Community Reintegration for their extraordinary work in service of our most vulnerable neighbors during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Celebrating their 50th Anniversary, McManimon, Scotland & Bauman, LLC (MS&B) is a well-respected law firm with a growing national reputation.  With superior business-oriented legal expertise, professionalism, and a personal touch, the firm provides high-quality counsel to both the public and private sectors. McManimon, Scotland & Bauman, LLC is also committed to the community through a variety of altruistic endeavors. Giving back is in their DNA.

“The Waterfront Project has certainly been a beneficiary of the firm’s commitment to giving back. MS&B has been a supporter from our earliest days, when we were operating out of space donated by the Catholic Community of Saints Peter & Paul in Hoboken, NJ” explained Founder and Board Treasurer Monsignor Robert Meyer. McManimon, Scotland & Bauman, LLC will be honored as the 2021 Valued Corporate Partner.

Katie Brennan is a public servant working in pursuit of the belief that housing is a human right. She serves as Senior Advisor to the Deputy Mayor of Housing and Economic Development in the Office of the Mayor of New York City. Katie previously served as Chief of Staff at the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency.

After being assaulted on the Murphy for Governor Campaign and a harrowing journey with the justice system, she publicly called for reform in the Wall Street Journal. Coming forward led to legislative hearings, dozens of reforms, and a $600,000 settlement donated to The Waterfront Project to launch a first-of-its-kind legal project dedicated to serving low-income survivors.

“Despite all that she has experienced, Katie Brennan remains resolutely optimistic that justice will prevail. She embodies the mission of The Waterfront Project” explained Board President Isabel Chou. “We are so grateful that she has entrusted The Waterfront Project to put her settlement funds to work for low-income survivors of sexual assault.” More details about the new project, including the release of a strategic plan, will be announced at the event. Katie Brennan will be honored as the 2021 Trailblazing Community Leader.

The Office of Social Services at the Hudson County Dept of Housing and Community Reintegration works to end homelessness through innovation and collaboration with community partners. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they acted swiftly to shelter seniors and people with underlying health conditions in hotels. Their actions protected the most vulnerable members of the homeless population and reduced the threat of the virus spreading in our community. Those immediate hotel placements were then expanded to ensure social distancing in the shelter system. In addition, the agency administered various COVID-19 rental and utility assistance payments for over 1,724 (and counting) Hudson County households.

A state leader in homelessness prevention, the agency credits its success to a joint effort of elected officials, program staff, and partnering government departments. Monica Yeng, Social Work Director at the Office of Social Services elaborated “We couldn’t achieve these outcomes without the guidance of Director Frank Mazza, Deputy Director Susan McCurrie, County Executive Tom DeGise and the Board of Commissioners or the support of the Hudson County Division of Housing and Community Development, especially Katelyn Ravensbergen who promotes collaboration between our office, nonprofits, vendors, and provider networks and Kevin Llangari who analyzes our data to enable us to see what works and what doesn’t.”

Amy Albert, Managing Attorney at The Waterfront Projectm offered her gratitude for the Office of Social Services at the Hudson County Dept of Housing and Community Reintegration. “During the height of the pandemic the agency staff were working nights and weekends to assist as many people as possible. They went above and beyond. Their efforts resulted in better housing outcomes for the residents of Hudson County.” The Office of Social Services at the Hudson County Dept of Housing and Community Reintegration will be honored as the 2021 ‘In the Trenches’ Ally Organization.

Buy tickets or donate at www.thewaterfrontproject.org/justice-for-all-fundraiser.

About The Waterfront Project, Inc

The Waterfront Project, Inc. (WFP) is a free legal services organization and a HUD-certified counseling agency. WFP resists the forces of gentrification that displace low-income residents from their communities by providing information, advice, and free legal representation. At its founding, WFP primarily focused on fighting evictions through financial counseling, housing counseling, and legal services. In 2020, WFP launched the Foreclosure Prevention Project to help homeowners in distress. WFP also has a Senior Law Project, which educates low-income seniors on the importance of wills, powers of attorney, and advanced health care directives and provides free legal transactional representation. And, with a $600,000 donation, WFP will launch a Sexual Assault Survivors Rights Project in 2022.

Keeping an eye on spending

Marilyn Baer, Staff Writer
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Keeping an eye on spending

Facing a multi-million dollar budget gap this year, the Hoboken City Council has taken an ax to more than 20 resolutions, slashing proposed spending and pulling some resolutions that awarded contracts to various companies.

It also adopted an ordinance to increase parking meter rates in the city’s business district from $1 an hour to $2 an hour to increase both revenue and on-street-parking turnover.

Budget gap

The city faces an estimated $7.4 million budget gap due to anticipated increases in personnel costs, among other expenses. This does not include a projected decrease in the city’s surplus account from $21 million to $15 million.

This means the city was facing a budget gap of about $14 million, but according to Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher, who is on the council’s finance subcommittee, this gap has now shrunk by approximately $1 million to just under $13 million, with the inclusion of increased PILOT payments that the administration previously hadn’t accounted for in its estimates.

The majority of these payments come from the recently opened development, 7Seventy House at 770 Jackson St.

Slashing spending

Before the council voted on the resolutions, Councilman Michael Russo pulled 21 of the 32 resolutions to be discussed because they all pertained to city spending in the form of contracts and change orders.

“For all of these, I have three questions: What is it? Why is it important? Can we hold off on it?,” said Russo to which Fisher added a fourth question “Can we reduce the amount?”

He noted that in light of the projected budget gap that the city was facing it was important to curtail spending before the council adopts a budget for the 2020 fiscal year.

The total of all the resolutions was approximately $643,000. The largest individual contracts included a $102,550 contract for Lou’s Landscaping for landscape maintenance of Hoboken’s parks and green infrastructure, a $60,000 contract to Maraziti Falcon LLP for redevelopment litigation matters, and a $60,000 contract to McManimon, Scotland & Baumann LLC for public utilities counsel.

Some of these contracts were for the full year, several of which were “not to exceed amounts,” meaning that they were a conservative estimate, and some would be paid for through special trusts like the city’s Open Space Trust Fund.

Of the 21 resolutions, six were pulled from the agenda. The majority of the rest were reduced after city department directors gave the council explanations for each of the resolutions as to what the contracts entailed and if the money was needed before the council convenes again in March.

Considering these reductions, the total amount of spending approved by the council was about $410,000.

Offer for park land

At the end of the same meeting, the council introduced an ordinance with a 7-2 vote, which would allow the city to make an offer for a portion of Academy Bus’s property to expand the Southwest Park.

If approved on second reading, the city would be permitted to make Academy Bus an offer of about $8.5 million for the land.

This is based on the city’s recent appraisal of the property prepared by Federal Appraisal LLC, submitted to the city at the end of January.

Last September, the city began eminent domain proceedings to acquire the property through condemnation and offered Academy Bus $5.3 million.

In November, a judge ordered the parties to renegotiate, after lambasting the city for its “faulty appraisal” and the city’s rezoning of the area.

More parking fee increases

The council also adopted an ordinance to increase meter rates in the city’s business district from $1 an hour to $2 an hour.

Councilman Michael DeFusco called the move a “cash grab,” saying, “This again is curiously timed to the administration’s cleanup program of trying to find money to plug a $7-to-$14 million-dollar budget deficit.”

According to Fisher, the ordinance will generate revenue for the city, but it’s also good policy because it seeks to incentivize turnover of on-street parking, which will bring more shoppers to the business district.

“I wouldn’t call it a cash grab,” Fisher said. “Is it a revenue-generating activity? Yes. Is it time-driven now because we have sensitivities around the budget? Yes. As I said last week, we have a giant budget gap that we have to fill, and we have to look for a lot of different ways to fill it. Potentially jobs are at stake, we have taxes potentially getting increased.”

Councilman Phil Cohen said he supported the meter increases, noting that the Hoboken Chamber of Commerce also supported them.

“I agree … that charging $2 an hour for metered parking on Washington Street, instead of $1 an hour, will create more turnover of parking spots, giving customers more available spots in desirable locations where they want to shop,” Cohen said. “Good for business. Good for customers. Too often, store employees take these prime Washington Street spots. It is my hope that this price increase will encourage employees to use our underutilized municipal lots, rather than Washington Street.”

Russo said that the city provided no data relevant to Hoboken that indicated that the increase in meter fares would increase turnover.

The ordinance passed 5-4. Council members Ruben Ramos, Michael DeFusco, Michal Russo, and Vanessa Falco voted against it.

For updates on this and other stories check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Marilyn Baer can be reached at Marilynb@hudsonreporter.com.

JERSEY CITY BRIEFS

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JERSEY CITY BRIEFS

CarePoint reaches new agreement with Horizon Blue Cross

CarePoint Health has announced that it reached a new three-year rate agreement with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey (Horizon BCBSNJ). The agreement ends all pending litigation between CarePoint Health and Horizon. Effective Oct. 1, CarePoint Health-Bayonne Medical Center, CarePoint Health-Christ Hospital in Jersey City and CarePoint Health-Hoboken University Medical Center will return to the Horizon Hospital Network.
The new rate agreement means that Horizon members for all products, including the NJ State Health Benefits Program, will once again be able to access CarePoint health care facilities on an in-network basis, including elective and emergency procedures, starting Oct. 1.
“We are excited to partner with Horizon to move healthcare forward in Northern New Jersey,” said CarePoint Health CEO, Jeff Mandler. “This agreement allows CarePoint to continue to invest in our people and infrastructure while ensuring care for the most vulnerable among us.”
“We’re pleased about reaching a new rate agreement with CarePoint, which will provide our members with additional options for in-network health care services,” said Allen J. Karp, senior vice president of healthcare management for Horizon.
Always call your insurance or medical provider to verify whether your insurance will be accepted.

Help for victims of Hurricane Harvey

The city of Jersey City will team up with a local firefighter’s family-run trucking business, Hermann Transportation, to collect and deliver donated items to Hurricane Harvey victims in Texas and Louisiana. You can help Hurricane Harvey victims by donating essential items. The Jersey City Donation Drive for Hurricane Harvey Relief will accept new and unopened items this Friday, Saturday, and Tuesday at the City’s Department of Public Works location.
Examples of needed items are shampoo/conditioner, deodorant, lotions, toothbrush/paste, dental floss, mouth wash, soap, body wash, baby wipes, hand sanitizers, diapers, feminine hygiene products, fire aid kits, phone chargers, batteries, school supplies and pet food. No clothing or bedding, please.
These can be dropped off on Saturday, Sept. 2 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and Tuesday, Sept. 5 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Jersey City Dept. of Public Works, 13-15 Linden Avenue East.

Jersey City man charged with sexual assault

Marquis Gilchrist, 31, of Jersey City, has been charged with two counts of sexual assault and other charges in connection with an alleged rape in a McGinley Square apartment on Fairmount Avenue on Aug. 13.
Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez said that on Aug. 25 detectives from the Special Victims Unit of the Office of the Hudson County Prosecutor arrested Gilchrist.
He has been charged with two counts of aggravated sexual assault; two counts of burglary; possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose (knife); unlawful possession of a weapon (knife); and making terroristic threats.
On Aug, 13, Jersey City Police Officers and Detectives from the prosecutor’s SVU responded to a report of a home invasion and sexual assault on Fairmount Avenue in Jersey City. A 22-year-old victim reported that she had been sexually assaulted at knifepoint by an unknown male who broke into her apartment.
Prosecutor Suarez credited the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit for the investigation and subsequent arrest.
Gilchrist, who was on parole, was also arrested by parole board officers for violating parole and subsequently charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance.

Ward C council debate scheduled for Sept. 9

The New JSQ Community Association and Friends of the Loews are co-sponsoring a Ward C Council candidates’ forum at the Loews Theatre, on Saturday, Sept. 9, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon.
All four candidates for the Journal Square area seat on the Council are scheduled to participate: Richard Boggiano, the incumbent; Janet Chevres, who is running on the slate of mayoral candidate William Matsikoudis; John Hanussak, who is on Mayor Steven Fulop’s slate; and Rekha Nandwani, an independent.
Bill Armbruster, president of The New JSQ Community Association, will moderate the forum. Members of the public will have a chance to ask questions of the candidates.

Celebrating women’s music

Jersey City female musicians will ban together to perform a multi-genre concert celebrating local women in music on Sunday, Sept. 24 in the basement lounge of Raval JC, 136 Newark Ave. in Jersey City, starting at 7 p.m. The evening will feature folk, Celtic, rock, jazz, bluegrass, and gospel influences.
Jersey City-based musicians Carolyn Light, Chrissy Roberts, Ariel Guidry, and Alishia Taiping (of the band Forget the Whale) will present ‘Ladies of JC.’
A full bar and a wide variety of Raval’s signature tapas will be available for purchase. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time on Eventbrite for $7, or for $10 at the door.

Walk to fight Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s New Jersey, formerly known as the Alzheimer’s Association Greater New Jersey Chapter, kicks off its “Walk to Fight Alzheimer’s” event this fall at locations in Ocean, Hudson, Mercer and Bergen Counties. The walk is the largest event for the organization to raise awareness and funds to support local programs for those impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias in New Jersey. One hundred percent of the funds raised by Alzheimer’s New Jersey go to support Garden State individuals and families.
The Alzheimer’s New Jersey’s Annual “Walk to Fight Alzheimer’s” in Jersey City begins at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 7 at Liberty State Park, 200 Morris Pesin Dr. in Jersey City, with registration and light breakfast. T-shirts will be distributed to all participants who raise a minimum of $50. There is no fee to register.
For more information, visit www.alznj.org to learn more.

Art House Productions presents Stages and Stages Jr.

Art House Productions (AHP) has announced Stages Conservatory, an eight-week theater intensive for students ages 7-12 and 13-17. The Stages Conservatory will be held after school at Art House Productions, 300 Coles St. in Jersey City, beginning Oct. 2.
Students will learn about the many different aspects of performing and working in the theater and will have the opportunity to train with working professionals from the New York and regional theater scene. At the end of eight weeks, the young performers will have developed new skills in acting, improv, dance, singing, and devised theater (creating their own work). There will be a presentation of these skills for family and friends.
For more information, contact program manager, Kristy Dodson at kristy@arthouseproductions.org.
For more information regarding enrollment, please see the group’s website, www.arthouseproductions.org.

CarePoint donates funds for Hurricane Harvey relief

CarePoint Health announced Thursday, Aug. 31 that it is raising funds for Hurricane Harvey relief by supporting Team Rubicon.
The company, which has hospitals in Hoboken, Bayonne, and Jersey City, is making a corporate donation and employees are personally supporting Team Rubicon and other charities providing relief.
Team Rubicon is a nonprofit organization that unites the skills and experiences of military veterans with first responders to rapidly deploy emergency response teams.
They are currently deployed in Houston, Texas conducting floodwater rescue operations in Harris and Galveston counties.
“It is important for us all to come together as a community to support the ongoing efforts to deal with the effects of Hurricane Harvey,” said CEO of CarePoint Health Jeff Mandler. “We are all too familiar with the damage brought by coastal storms and want to do our part to enable organizations like Team Rubicon to help conduct rescue and recoveries in the affected areas.”

Police Beat

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Man spots alleged burglar while monitoring security camera

Fernando Rosario, 42, of Hoboken was arrested on Friday, March 2 at 4:28 p.m. and charged with burglary, theft of movable property, burglary tools, criminal mischief, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Officers William Bullock, David DiMartino and Lieutenant Corrado Allegretta responded to the 300 block of Willow Avenue on the report of burglary in progress. According to the caller he was viewing the security camera in his apartment from a remote location and saw an unknown man in his home. He emailed a still photograph to the Police Department.
Officers arrived on the scene and set up a building perimeter and Allegretta, Bullock, and DiMartino entered the building. They saw minor pry marks on the door frame of a first floor apartment. They checked the building and found pry marks on another door frame. The officers heard someone in the third floor stairwell and found Rosario sweating profusely. DiMartino knew Rosario from a previous burglary investigation and knew he didn’t live in the building. Rosario matched the description from the caller and he was placed under arrest.
The officers searched Rosario and found him to allegedly have a flathead screwdriver and a bent Hudson Share customer access card that was worn on both sides. He also allegedly had pieces of jewelry, two ziplock bags of marijuana, and four glass cartridges containing suspected marijuana oil. Rosario was transported back to police headquarters for processing.
A tenant from one of the burglarized apartments was able to identify some of the pieces of jewelry that belonged to them at police headquarters.
Rosario was also found to allegedly have conducted other burglaries in town and was charged for those as well.
Rosario was transported to the Hudson County Correctional and Rehabilitation Center pending a detention hearing.

Officer’s vigilance results in DWI arrest

Paterson resident Mara Ruiz, 46, was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated, DWI in a school zone, reckless driving, failure to stop, and disregarding a traffic control device on Tuesday, March 13, at 3:07 a.m.
Officer Brandon Fitzgibbons was driving south on Hudson Street when he saw a white 2012 Mercedes Benz allegedly fail to stop at a stop sign and disregard a traffic signal. Fitzgibbons stopped the car near Third and Hudson streets and when the driver rolled down the window the officer smelled alcohol from inside the car. The driver’s eyes were allegedly glassy and bloodshot. She was asked to step outside the vehicle for a field sobriety test which she allegedly “failed to complete properly.”
She was transported to Weehawken Police Department in order for Sergeant Ed Sellick to conduct a breathalyzer test which allegedly confirmed Ruiz to be under the influence of alcohol.

Alleged marijuana possession while driving

Anthony Graffeo, 29, of West Caldwell, and Ahmad Rahin, 35 of Ponte Verdra, Fla. were both issued summonses on Sunday, March 11 at 1:29 a.m..
Graffeo was charged with possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia and Rahin was charged with possession of drugs in a motor vehicle, driving while suspended, and obstructing traffic.
Officers Ryan Houghton and Dennis Figueroa, Jr. heard horns from several cars while on patrol near 80 River St. They saw a 2017 Ford obstructing traffic and Houghton approached the driver. According to the police press release, the officers smelled marijuana coming from inside the car. He saw the passenger, Graffeo, allegedly holding a brown lit cigar. The passenger allegedly refused to keep his hands visible. After eventually complying, he allegedly gave the officers a plastic container with suspected marijuana from his pocket.
The passenger was placed under arrest for the possession and given a summons to appear in court while the driver received several motor vehicle summonses on scene.

Two arrested for alleged PCP

27 year old Alexandra Mendoza of Jersey City and 26 year old Jessica Reyes of North Bergen were charged with defiant trespass and being under the influence of PCP on Saturday March 10 at 8:11 p.m..
Reyes was also charged with possession of PCP, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Officers William Bullock and David DiMartino were sent to 310 Marshall Dr. on a report of a group hanging out in the building. When the officers entered the stairwell they smelled PCP. The officers found two women and requested an ambulance due to the women’s alleged PCP use and one was allegedly unable to stand on her own. They were placed under arrest and searched. Reyes allegedly had a cigarette laced with PCP. Reyes was transported to Hoboken University Medical Center while Mendoza was transported to headquarters for processing. Both received summonses to appear in court.

Weekend DWI

On Sunday, March 4, East Brunswick resident Carlye Falco, 24, was charged with driving while intoxicated, reckless driving, failure to exhibit documents, and refusal to submit to a breathalyzer at 2:49 a.m.
Officer Bianca Arroyo and Special Police Officer Christopher Soto were on patrol when they saw a car accident near 32 Newark St. According to a police press release, they saw a Honda Civic strike the rear of a Ford Escalade.
Arroyo approached the car and saw a passenger asleep and a driver with glassy eyes and she smelled alcohol allegedly coming from the vehicle.
Officer Brandon Fitzgibbons arrived on scene to administer the field sobriety test which the driver was allegedly unable to complete. An ambulance was also on scene to check on all parties involved. Falco was placed under arrest and transported to headquarters for processing. At headquarters she was charged with the added motor vehicle offense of refusal to submit breath samples. A total of five motor vehicle summonses were given to the driver. No parties involved in the accident were injured. She was later released to a responsible party.

South Bound Brook man allegedly jumps in river

South Bound Brook resident Christopher Conner, 25, was summonsed for disorderly conduct and swimming in water adjoining a park on Saturday March 3 at 4:41 p.m.
Officers were dispatched to 401 Sinatra Dr. on the report of a man who jumped into the river. The officers found the man allegedly in the water swimming towards shore. After speaking with the man who explained he jumped into the water on a dare from his friends he was transported to the hospital for treatment.

Three charged in disturbance

Hoboken resident Jacob Maldonado, 25, was arrested on Feb. 25 at 2:54 a.m. along with Jersey City resident Angel Roman, 23, and West Orange resident Jeanette Abreu, 27.
Maldonado was charged with resisting arrest and disorderly conduct, Roman was charged with obstructing, and Abreu was charged with disorderly conduct.
Officer John Hermann arrived in the area of 81 River St. on the call of a disturbance. He found Maldonado allegedly over a man who was on the ground. Maldonado was pulled off by officers Michael Aviles and Ricky Truppner. As they attempted to separate the men Roman allegedly came towards the officers while cursing and yelling. Maldonado allegedly continued to charge at the man and he was handcuffed. Abreu, Maldonado’s girlfriend, was told to leave the area but she allegedly refused and began to yell and curse. She was placed under arrest after several failed attempts to calm her down, according to the release. At this point Roman allegedly began to interfere with the arrest of Abreu and was arrested.
All parties were transported to headquarters for processing where they all received a summons to appear in court. The male who was on the ground left the area prior to the officers getting his identification.

Man charged after allegedly breaking shelter window

Jersey City homeless man Kareem Mumford, 24, was arrested and charged with criminal mischief based on an incident on Feb. 26 at 12:40 p.m.
The Police Department got a call from the Hoboken Shelter regarding one of their guests allegedly damaging a window. Mumford was allegedly angry over property lost and began to argue with the staff. When he was asked to leave, he allegedly punched the window, shattering the glass and injuring his hand. A description was given to all officers along with his direction. Detectives Vito Gigante and Arturo Gonzalez stopped a man fitting the description near Second and Hudson streets. The officers confirmed his identity and placed him under arrest for the damage. The cost to replace the window was over $500, the police press release said. The man was also treated for his hand injury. A summons complaint was generated and he was released with a court appearance.

North Bergen is ready for a fun-filled summer of recreation

Daniel Israel, Staff Writer
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North Bergen is ready for a fun-filled summer of recreation

As summer begins, the township of North Bergen is preparing to offer its residents a season of fun featuring a slew of events hosted in conjunction with the Recreation Department.

The Hudson Reporter spoke with Parks and Recreation Commissioner Hugo Cabrera about the township’s plans for the summer. Cabrera said that many programs are back in full swing after two years of COVID-19 precautions preventing some of the fun.

Summer Fun program set to be a blast

One such program making a big return in 2022 is Summer Fun, according to Cabrera.

“We’re definitely bringing back the Summer Fun program,” Cabrera said. “We did it in a different way the past couple of years. Due to COVID-19, we were still giving out lunches and things of that nature, but we’re bringing it back in full force, the full deal like we had going on before the pandemic.”

Noting that “the kids really enjoy it,” Cabrera said that it is a five-week program which runs from 8:30 to 3:30 each day of the week it is held.

“We take care of the kids,” he said. “It’s very helpful for the parents. I think we only charge $50 for the program.”

Cabrera said the summer camp program takes place township wide, utilizing a variety of locations.

“We have seven sites and we use some of the schools,” Cabrera said. “We also use the rec center.”

According to Cabrera, the program is a valued one among residents that will bring smiles come its full return.

“It’s really something that people have been really happy about it,” he said. “I don’t know exactly what trips are going to happen this year, but in the past we’ve had trips to the Statue of Liberty. We’ve taken them roller skating and to different places. Then we have these big vans that come and they have a whole bunch of games inside. And they do arts and crafts. It’s a whole bunch of things that we do and we keep the kids entertained. It’s something that’s very enjoyable for everyone.”

Residents can cool down this summer with either daily passes or the usual memberships.

Activities at the pool and the new community center and library

Cabrera said the municipal pool is almost back to normal. Due to COVID-19, there were no memberships; instead there were only daily passes. Now, the pool will offer both the daily passes and annual memberships.

“For the last couple of years because of COVID, we weren’t having memberships,” Cabrera said. “We were just doing daily passes. So this year, we did it hybrid where we’re going back to normal to have the memberships for people, but then also we’re going to offer the daily passes. So anybody that knows they’re probably not going to go as much can just do the daily pass. Then they’ll still be able to enjoy the pool. That way everybody gets to enjoy the pool.”

One major thing the township is looking forward to is the grand opening of the still under-construction $19 million community center and library, according to Cabrera.

“The big thing that we are excited about is downtown, we’re going to be opening up the community center and library,” he said. “That’s going to be in August. That’s going to be a recreation center too and we’re very excited about. If we could do it a little bit sooner, we’ll try. But it looks like August is the tentative month. At least we’ll get half the summer out of it.”

Regardless of when it opens, the new facility will serve residents during any season.

“We’re going to have basketball courts and a track above it,” he said. “People will be able to have practices for football and soccer because we’re going to have half of a field on the upstairs roof. So it’s going to be something really nice.”

While recreation is important, the township continues to offer vaccines and boosters to all those who are eligible, even partnering with schools to make it easier on parents.

Schools getting ready for summer

Cabrera also noted that there will be a lot going on soon with schools ahead of the summer recreation and fun activities.

“We’re getting ready for graduation,” Cabrera said. “We’re planning to have full graduations again this year.”

Right now, the district is readying for graduations. The elementary school graduations will maintain some elements of the graduations that took place during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the graduation for North Bergen High School will return fully back to normal.

“The high school is planning to have the regular graduation,” he said. “The parents like how we did the graduations, we had them sitting on the field with the child. Then they all came up to receive the diploma. They enjoyed that, so we’re keeping it for this year for the elementary schools. But the high school we’re going to go all out with a full graduation.”

In addition, Cabrera said that there would also be an enrichment program over the summer for the schools again.

“We’re going to open up a couple of the other schools besides the high school,” he said. “So we’re really trying to get back to normal.”

One part of getting back to normal is promoting vaccinations, according to Cabrera. And with COVID-19 on the rise again, it is as important as ever, in addition to using common sense to mitigate the spread of the virus.

“We give the vaccine shots to anybody that’s eligible,” he said. “With the children, we find that it’s easier for the parents to go to the schools. It makes them feel a little better going to the schools instead of the clinics.”

The North Bergen Flea Market is a monthly staple.

Full breakdown of activities

The North Bergen Flea Market returned in May and will make more appearances on June 4, July 2, and August 6 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Farmer’s Market will open on June 23 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial at 90th Street and Bergenline Avenue and will return again in June on the 30th at the same time in the same location, as well as on July 7, July 14, July 21, July 28, August 4, August 11, August 18, and August 25.

The pool opens for the season on June 4. The Summer Health and Green Family Festival will take place on June 4 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

The Summer Movie Series starts on June 21 at the uptown library, with other showings: at Policeman’s Park on June 28; at the Recreation Center at 6300 Meadowview Avenue on July 5; at Paterson Plank Road Park on July 12; at the downtown library on July 19; at the 88th Street Park between Durham and Grand Avenues on July 26; at the Nutrition Center at 1441 45th Street on August 9; at the uptown library on August 16; and ending on August 30 at Bruin Stadium in Braddock Park. All movies start at sundown.

Boosters will be given out at various places including: Lawler Tower on June 7 from 10 to 11 a.m.; the Terrace Apartments on June 8 from 10 to 11 a.m.; and Cullum Tower on June 14 from 10 to 11 a.m. 

Waterfront concerts are also a local staple during the summer.

Additional events throughout the summer

Also in June: is LEAD Day at Stan Newman Field at 64th Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; the Series on the World Wars: Escape from Behind Enemy Lines on June 13 from 6:30 to 7 p.m. via Zoom; the North Bergen Annual Recreation Dance Recital at North Bergen High School on June 16 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.; the Sacco 5k on June 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park; and a Health Department Jobs Fair on June 25 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m..

Additionally in July, there is the Junior Police Academy on July 11 through July 15 and the Series on the World Wars: The Great Escape of World War II on July 11 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. via Zoom.

And in August, there is the Night Out Against Crime on August from 5 to 10 p.m. and Series on the World Wars: Eddie Rickenbacker- Flying Ace of World War I on August 8 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. via Zoom.

This is a tentative list provided by the township that is subject to change, as well as events that have not been announced yet. Overall, Cabrera concluded: “It’s going to be a great summer for North Bergen.”

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at disrael@hudsonreporter.com.

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