38 Hoboken + Jersey City News Stories You Missed This Week – hobokengirl.com
A week of life in Hoboken + Jersey City means plenty of news to catch up on. Among the local headlines: Wunda Bar Pilates to open the first location in Jersey City; St. Ann’s Festival to return to Hoboken this year; the Jersey City Panthers are competing in the AAU Junior Olympic Games in Texas; and so much more. Keep reading for all the news you missed this week in Hoboken, Jersey City, + beyond.
Annual Hoboken Wellness Crawl Returns September 19th
Our Annual Hoboken Wellness Crawl Event is back in person, and happening September 19, 2021, from 11AM – 4PM in Hoboken. The deadline to fill out the application to become a vendor for the 2021 Hoboken Wellness Crawl is Tuesday, July 20th. Click here to fill out the application.
Think of it like a ‘bar crawl’ but for wellness businesses in our area. The crawl will feature brick-and-mortar businesses + online/mobile businesses. All participating businesses will offer an exclusive freebie item for all crawlers and a giveaway prize for one lucky crawler. The goal of the Hoboken Wellness Crawl is to connect local residents with wellness businesses in Hudson County to celebrate all of the incredible food, fitness, health, and beauty options available in our community.
Stay tuned for our ticket release, coming VERY soon. Vendors, please click here to apply before 7/20.
Hoboken to Distribute $2M in Relief Funds
The City of Hoboken will distribute approximately $2M to local nonprofits and public agencies to help them provide vital services for low and moderate-income residents and respond to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a press release. The Hoboken Community Center and Hoboken Food Pantry will receive a total of $938,194 which will help replace the HVAC system and assist the pantry as it continues to feed food-insecure residents.
Jersey City’s La Festa Italiana to Return in August
The Historic Downtown Jersey City account announced this week the return of Jersey City’s Italian festival. The post reads, “Mark your calendars! Jersey City’s very own old-world Italian street festival is BACK from August 11th to 15th. La Festa Italiana is currently seeking food vendors for all 5 days of the festival.”
Hoboken to Offer Reduced Citi Bike Membership to HHA Residents
Residents of Hoboken’s Housing Authority can now receive a reduced Citi Bike membership, according to a press release, allowing them to more easily travel through Jersey City, Hoboken, and New York City.
“For $60 a year, or $5 a month, Hoboken Housing Authority residents and SNAP recipients can join the Citi Bike program, the press release stated. “Members will get unlimited 45-minute rides at no additional cost on classic bikes and charged $0.12 for every minute over the initial 45. For those who choose to pedal e-bikes, they will be charged $0.05 per minute for rides 45 minutes or less, but this fee will be capped at $3. After the initial 45 minutes, members will be charged $0.12 per minute. “
Update on Barbès’ Sister Restaurant ‘La Boheme’ in Hoboken
In 2020, we received the sad news that Cucharamama, the last of the three restaurants from famed Chef Priscilla, was closing. But in October, owners of Barbès, Lisa and Omar Balouma ad Abdellah Ksiyer, confirmed that they would be taking over the former Cucharamama location at 233 Clinton Street. And now, we have an update. The name + concept, La Boheme, ‘a slice of the French Riviera,’ is coming to Hoboken. As of July 2021, signage indicating that the restaurant is moving forward with the opening. Click here to read more about what we know regarding Hoboken’s soon-to-be newest French restaurant.
Hoboken’s Beloved St. Ann’s Festival is Back for the Season
After the year we’ve all had, there’s nothing more important than some sense of normalcy returning. One of Hoboken’s oldest, and tastiest, traditions returns this year: St. Ann’s Festival is back for its 111th year. Get ready to stuff your face with zeppoles, chocolate-covered Oreos, and sausage and pepper sandwiches. Click here to read up on what you need to know about St. Ann Festival’s return to Hoboken for its 111th year.
New to Jersey City, Belle Ame Café Opens Its Doors
Brand new to the Jersey City scene, Belle Ame Cafe located at 76 Cottage Street has officially opened. The Journal Square-based cafe specializes in Nicaraguan coffee, espresso, and lattes as well as healthy eats. Click here to read what we know about the opening of Belle Ame Cafe in Jersey City.
Hoboken Chess Players Face Off
More than 40 chess players of all ages faced off on Sunday in a tournament at the Play! Hoboken facility, reports NJ.com. This is the club’s first chess tournament they’ve held in person since the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Play! Hoboken is a board game club that is home to many gaming activities such as virtual golf, billiards, and other board games.
Jersey City School Board President Not Seeking Re-election
Due to health concerns, Jersey City School Board President Mussab Ali will not run for re-election, according to NJ.com. Ali was diagnosed with Stage 4 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and is still undergoing chemotherapy treatments. Ali said doctors are very optimistic about his condition, but he doesn’t want to put himself in the position where he is running for an elected office while also dealing with this health condition.
Veteran Career Training Launching in Jersey City
A new program helping women and minority veterans land construction jobs is kicking off in Jersey City, per Patch. The program, “Helmets to Hardhats”, also helps these veterans start and build successful careers. Mayor Steven Fulop is working with Commissioner William O’Dea to launch this initiative which will soon extend to Bergen, Essex, and Union Counties.
Jersey City Named in Hipsters’ Top 5
Lawnstarter.com compiled a list of the top five cities for hipsters that aren’t Brooklyn for 2021, and Jersey City made the list, according to Patch. The rankings are based on “23 anti-mainstream factors” including thrift and record stores, farmers markets, bike-friendliness, and yoga studios, as well as other “anti-mainstream” things. Jersey City was ranked 5th, just behind Fort Lauderdale, FL.
‘The Perfect Find’ Movie Filming in Hudson County
Netflix is in the process of producing a romantic comedy titled The Perfect Find, What’s on Netflix reports. The movie will star Gabrielle Union, Niecy Nash, and Keith Powers and is based on the bestselling book by Tia Williams. It will be directed by Numa Perrier and filmed in Hudson County through August. The story follows Jenna Jones in her attempt to get a fresh start in the beauty industry.
Portions of Hoboken’s Hudson Street to Close for Two Weeks
The northern stage of the city’s Rebuild by Design anti-flooding project begins this week, necessitating the closure of parts of Hudson Street, Patch reports. This project will include the construction of sewer improvements, and the closure will last through August 31st. The DEP will be separating portions of the sewer system into separate sanitary and stormwater lines, helping to prevent the Hudson River from penetrating the city through the sewer system.
Fallen Tree Limb Temporarily Shuts Down Train Service
A downed tree limb temporarily shut down train service on Tuesday afternoon on NJ Transit’s Bergen Line, per Tap Into. Traffic bound for Hoboken was briefly suspended due to the fallen tree limb blocking a track in the borough. The branch fell shortly before 1PM and train service was resumed by 1:30PM.
Urby Apartments Planned for Hoboken’s Observer Highway
Plans for the building replacing Hoboken’s Observer Highway public works garage have been revealed, per NJ.com. Urby, a luxury, amenities-heavy apartment brand, is planning to replace the public works garage. Hoboken’s Urby would have 16 floors of 360 residential apartments above retail and parking.
Developers Break Ground on Jersey City High-Rise
Developers have broken ground at a vacant property near Mana Contemporary which will be the site of a modern development, according to Jersey Digs. Plans for this site first emerged in early 2019. The final version of the proposal was approved in late 2020.
Five Below Announces Jersey City Store Information
Five Below is setting up shop near the Hudson River and has announced opening information and a hiring event, per Jersey Digs. Five Below is a Philadelphia-based company with over 1,000 locations across the United States, and now opening a location at the Newport Plaza complex. The company is currently looking for future employees for its August launch.
Hoboken Recreation Announces Summer and Fall Programs
The Hoboken Department of Recreation announced the rollout of upcoming programs, according to Tap Into. Children ages 13-18 can play in a pickup soccer game on Thursdays and Fridays from now through August. The games are held at Mama Johnson Field, 5PM – 7PM. Registration for fall football for kids ages 6-14 has opened. The season will begin the weekend after Labor Day.
Jersey City Athletes Compete in AAU Junior Olympics
The Jersey City Panthers are competing in the AAU Junior Olympic Games in Humble, Texas, per NJ.com. Four members of the city Recreation Department’s AAU track and field team will compete at the Humble High School Track Stadium. All four will be competing in the 9-to-12-year-old division. The top six finishers from each qualifier across the country are eligible to compete.
Jersey City COVID-19 Relief Offers Up to $10K for Low-Income Families
The latest Jersey City COVID-19 rent relief program offers up to $10,000 for low-income families, reports Hudson County View. The program will prioritize families that have experienced significant financial hardship during the pandemic, who have been living in owner-occupied buildings with less than five apartments. The goal is to provide rent relief to residents with the greatest need, while ensuring small property owners with residence on the property also benefit.
Jersey City’s Loew’s Theater Renovations Advancing
The century-old Loew’s theater is scheduled for renovations, but details on plans are scarce, according to NJ.com. The Jersey City Historic Preservation Commission reviewed proposals for the renovations and concluded that plans are “essentially conceptual.” The Loew’s Jersey Theater opened in 1929 and housed a miniature sculpture of St. George fighting a dragon, a fountain full of goldfish and curtains embroidered with griffins.
Jersey City Carnival Celebrates Building Community Together
The Jersey City West Indian/Caribbean Carnival Association, Inc. Committee is set to celebrate the Carnival festivities on a smaller scale, per Caribbean Life News. The theme for the event is “26- Building Community Together.” The 2021 carnival season kicked off its festivities in March and continues with a monthly event. The committee continued with a Carnival Week Community Meet-up this week July 21st through July 24th.
Hoboken Announces New Hop Buses To Accommodate the Disabled
The City Of Hoboken unveiled two new wheelchair-accessible Hop buses, according to Hudson County View. The new shuttles replace two older shuttles that will be moved to backup vehicles. Hoboken Hop operates Monday through Friday at zero cost to residents.
Dogspotted Hosting First Annual Walk-a-Thon
Dogspotted announced its first annual Walk-A-Thon on its Instagram. Interested participants are encouraged to participate in the Greater New York Area and beyond. The post reads, “From Saturday, August 21st – Saturday, August 28th we will be hosting a week of exciting events in NYC (with some special guests!) for you and your pup to join. For those outside NYC, we have Team Captains leading walks all over the country. You can sign up on our website to secure your spot! Your entry fee will be distributed to the rescue of your choice.”
WundaBar Pilates Opening Jersey City Location
WundaBar Pilates is coming to Jersey City in Fall 2021, according to the company’s Instagram post. The caption reads, “JERSEY CITY we’re coming for you!! Morning strolls with @martapicaportefitness as she gives us a sneak peek of the studio.” The new studio will be located at 65 Bay Street in Jersey City. The price of one class starts at $42 and customers can buy a 5-class or 10-class pack. One-on-one sessions are also available.
New Jersey Natives Play in Tokyo Olympics
New Jersey natives Carli Lloyd and Tobin Heath played against Sweden in the U.S. national team’s opening soccer match in the Tokyo Olympics on Wednesday, July 21st. Sweden prevailed against the US team, Sporting News has the results.
Hudson Pride Center Announces We Outside Event at Jackson Hill Pop-Up
The Hudson Pride Center announced the We Outside event taking place on Thursday, July 29th, via Instagram. The post says, “We’re bringing you FREE & Confidential HIV & COVID testing (provided by Hyacinth AIDS Foundation @hyacinthfoundation), bus tickets, gift cards & a gift bag (for those who take the test), free condoms, and ALL THE VIBES (live music & food )!” The event will happen 12PM to 4PM at the Jackson Hill Pop Up.
Hudson’s Grill Opens in Jersey City
A new restaurant, Hudson’s Grill, has opened in Jersey City at 160 Greene Street. The restaurant serves fresh-baked artisan breads, hand-rolled brick oven bagels, Italian Lavazza coffee, Nutella croissants, brunch boxes, and pasta, according to Instagram. Pictured above is The Godfather Sandwich, stacked up with salami, pepperoni, soppressata, provolone, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and hot peppers, takes two hands to hold onto.
Grind Coffee JC Outpost Coming Soon
According to the Foundry Girl JC on Instagram, Grind Coffee has a new outpost coming soon to Berry Lane Park in Jersey City. Stay tuned for more information via the @grindcoffeejc account.
Choc O Pain Bakery Opens New Outdoor Addition
Choc O Pain Bakery and Cafe has opened a new outdoor patio space behind the Hoboken City Hall, per Instagram. Choc O Pain Bakery currently has two locations in Hoboken at 157 1st Street and 1500 Hudson Street. Both locations feature artwork from local artists and separate dining areas.
Tastee Platters, A New Halal Spot Opens in Hoboken
As of July 29th, Hoboken is home to a new halal restaurant, Tastee Platters. Located at 217 Washington Street, in the former Loquito’s storefront, Tastee Platters is now officially open to the public as the restaurant’s second location after launching in Wayne just last year. The eatery specializes in classic halal food – platters, pitas, salads, wings, and other sides. Click here to read more about what to expect at Tastee Platters in Hoboken.
Om Sweet Home to Close July 31st
Om Sweet Home, a vegan bakery, is closing its doors on July 31st, per Instagram. The bakery featured vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, wheat-free, palm oil-free, non-GMO organic products made with their own non-dairy butter alternative.
Gabrielle Union Chooses Vibez as Her Favorite Vegan Spot in NJ
An Instagram post from Vibez Juice Cafe reads, “on behalf of Vibez Team, we want to thank @gabunion for choosing @vibezjuicecafe in jersey city as her favorite Vegan spot in NJ🙏🏽 We are so grateful for the love and support. We will never forget your presence and this day @vibezjuicecafe, you are simply amazing.”
Korean Body Scrubs and Halotherapy Return at SOJO Spa Club
Starting Monday, July 26 Korean Body Scrubs and Halotherapy are back at the SOJO Spa Club, according to a press release. Book yours by calling or sign up day-of in the locker room on site. Halotherapy helps to boost your immune system, relieve your sinuses and reduce stress. Sessions for halotherapy are $30 per person.
Newark’s Economic Development Corporation Hosting a Signing Event
Newark’s Economic Development Corporation is hosting a signing event for the organization’s “Section 8 Homeownership Conversion Program,” according to a press release. This will be a signing honoring the closing of the homes, marking the official transfer of ownership of the three homes to the recipients. The properties were rehabbed by Newark-based MWBE contractors and are now move-in ready for the families. The signing is on Wednesday, July 21st at 11AM.
Casting Call for Hoboken Dog TV Channel
Hoboken resident Ron Levi has founded a TV channel for dogs called DOGTV. “We’ll be shooting at Cobalt Studios on Clinton Street, on August 4th and 5th, and looking for 20 dogs to be the new faces of the channel.” Send a photo of you and your dog to amanda@dogtv.com.
Tax Reduction for Hoboken Residents
The Hoboken Municipal Budget amendment was passed at the City Council meeting held on Wednesday, July 21st. The approval means a reduction in municipal taxes by 2.8%.
Following the meeting, Mayor Ravi Bhalla said, “…taxpayers will see a tax reduction in this year’s budget, providing much-needed relief while maintaining important City projects including water main upgrades, funding for parks, and improvements to critical infrastructure.”
Written by: Ainsley Layland
Originally from North Carolina, Ainsley became a proud Hoboken Girl years ago. As a freelance journalist she has written about everything under the sun for the past six years. She works from her home office in uptown Hoboken or sometimes from Choc-o-Pain, because nothing says “freelancer” like working from a café with a fresh croissant nearby. As the mother of one very fast toddler, she has a passion for self-care, parenting hacks, and discovering all the fun things the Mile Square has to offer.