It’s officially December and Christmas is around the corner. It has been another week of news in Hudson County, and we’ve got all the headlines to get you caught up, as we do every week — from all around the internet. Among the local news: Hoboken resident Kerry Magro launches a new children’s book to raise autism awareness; Jersey City announces Melida Rodas as poet laureate; and the Hudson County Executive requests funding for public safety upgrades in Hoboken. Keep reading for all the news in Hoboken + Jersey City for the week ending on December 1st, 2024.
Have a news story or press release? Email it to [email protected].
Among the Headlines (read on for the full stories + more):
- The Best of Hoboken + Jersey City 2024 Guide Finalists Announced — VOTE NOW!
- Main Street Pops to Host Hoboken Holiday Market Series
- Montclair-Based Greek Restaurant, Efi’s Gyro, Opens its Jersey City Location
- The Hoboken Girl Breakfast Sandwich Raising Money for Hoboken Public Education Foundation Until 12/31
- Class 3 E-Bikes Must be Registered, City of Hoboken Says
- Shop the Block 2024 Returns to Jersey City Heights
- L&B Healthy Pet Market to Open in Hoboken on December 2nd
- Outdoor Dining Made Permanent in NJ: What This Means for Hoboken + Jersey City
- City of Hoboken to Expand Police Department to 156 Officers
- NJCU + A. Harry Moore School Launch Program for Students with Special Needs
The Best of Hoboken + Jersey City 2024 Guide Finalists Announced — VOTE NOW!
The finalists for the Best of Hoboken + Jersey City 2024 Guide are in! Thank you to everyone who nominated local businesses and people in Hoboken + Jersey City to receive the recognition they deserve. Those who received the most nominations in each category advanced to the top three finalists, so before anyone says so-and-so was robbed, remember: we make the rules, we don’t pick the finalists. You can vote once per day in all categories, now through Sunday, December 8th at 11:59PM. Click here for more.
The Hoboken Girl Breakfast Sandwich Raising Money for Hoboken Public Education Foundation Until 12/31
After becoming a permanent addition to the menu earlier this year, The Hoboken Girl is continuing its mission of giving back to local organizations with The Hoboken Girl breakfast sandwich at Alessio’s. A portion of this quarter’s sales (through the end of 2024) will benefit the Hoboken Public Education Foundation, voted on by our readers. Click here for more.
Hoboken City Hall Got Hacked: Here’s What’s Going On
The City of Hoboken was the victim of a ransomware attack in the early hours of Wednesday, November 27th, 2024, per a Nixle alert sent out by the City just after 10AM. Due to the cyber attack, Hoboken City Hall, located at 94 Washington Street, was closed on November 27th. All online City services were suspended. Municipal Court was also canceled for the day. The Hoboken Police Department is working with City administration and the IT department to investigate the attack and how to best restore services safely. This is a developing story. Click here for more.
Outdoor Dining Made Permanent in NJ: What This Means for Hoboken + Jersey City
While outdoor dining isn’t new to Hoboken, it became more popular after the COVID-19 pandemic forced businesses to get creative and provide more dining options. The governor granted special permissions in 2021 to allow restaurants to expand services outside, and that was set to expire this year. Now, Governor Phil Murphy has made outdoor dining permanent for businesses in New Jersey, thanks to a new bill signed into law on November 25th, 2024. Click here for more.
L&B Healthy Pet Market to Open in Hoboken on December 2nd
L&B Pet Market shared exclusively with The Hoboken Girl earlier this year that it plans to open a pet supply store in Hoboken. The family-owned store based in Montclair is a haven for health-conscious pet owners and will be bringing another locally-owned pet supply store to the Mile Square. L&B Pet Market is located at 15 South Fullerton Avenue in Montclair and is now expanding to Hoboken, as its owner is a Hoboken resident. We now know that the new pet spot is planning for a December 2nd opening at 155 4th Street according to its owners. Click here for more.
Montclair-Based Greek Restaurant, Efi’s Gyro, Opens its Jersey City Location
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Another Montclair restaurant has entered the Hudson County food scene, this time in the Newport Area of Jersey City. Efi’s Gyro, a casual Greek spot on Bloomfield Avenue, opened its second location at 171 River Drive on November 30th. Click here for more.
Main Street Pops to Host Hoboken Holiday Market Series
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Main Street Pops artisan market is hosting its Hoboken Holiday Market Series on December 8th, 15th, and 22nd from 11AM-4PM at 1401 Adams Street, under the 14th Street Viaduct. Per its website, there will be a Holiday Community Concert on December 8th, live ice sculpture carving on December 15th, and a holiday DJ dance party and carousel rides on December 22nd.
We’re Donating $1,000 to Two Local Non-Profits of Your Choice
If you’re looking to shop small and give back this holiday season, we have just the trick — and a little gift for two very lucky New Jersey residents. To support small businesses and local non-profits, our The Local Girl brands have a fun giveaway to share with our readers. We’re giving away $2000 — $1000 each to a local non-profit of our readers’ choice, as well as $100 to the New Jersey business of their choice. This is all going down on our Instagram — so head there, stat (it ends December 1st, 2024!). Click here for more.
Jeremy Allen White Spotted at Yet Another Hoboken Coffee Shop
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Hoboken is primarily known for its pizzerias, but coffee shops have become just as abundant in recent years. Since shopping at Little City Books in October, Jeremy Allen White (The Bear, Shameless) has been spotted in Hoboken just about every week. These sightings, however, are almost exclusively at various Hoboken coffee shops, including bwè kafe, Hidden Grounds, and Mojo. Click here for more.
Shop the Block 2024 Returns to Jersey City Heights
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The holidays are just weeks away, which means it’s time to start shopping for gifts. Whether looking for a small little knickknack for a Secret Santa exchange or a thoughtful present for a loved one, local businesses are the ideal place to find something special. From Friday, November 29th to Sunday, December 1st, Jersey City locals shopped for holiday gifts at Shop the Block 2024, an event where customers receive a bingo card that enters them in a raffle to win large prizes. Several beloved spots in the Jersey City Heights area participated in this event, from bakeries to hair salons to yoga studios. Click here for more.
Free Public Library in North Bergen Secures $3M Grant for Renovations
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The North Bergen Free Public Library, in partnership with the township’s health department, has secured a $3 million grant to enhance the main library, creating more spaces for workforce development, health resources, and educational opportunities. Per the Hudson County View, starting on December 20th, the main library building located at 8411 Bergenline Avenue will close for renovations that are expected to take approximately eight months. To minimize disruption, the library plans to establish a nearby pop-up location, ensuring continued access to essential services, including book lending, computer access, and community programs.
NJCU + A. Harry Moore School Launch Program for Students with Special Needs
New Jersey City University and A. Harry Moore Laboratory School are launching the A. Harry Moore School Life Independence and Future Transitions (LIFT) program at NJCU’s Grossnickle Hall. Per NJ.com, the LIFT program will serve students with special needs ages 15 to 21 by helping them find secure employment, further their educational pursuits and learn independent living skills and confidence in daily life.
Hudson County Executive Requests Funding for Public Safety Upgrades in Hoboken at Church Square Park
Hudson County Executive Craig Guy announced on November 25th that he and Board of Commissioners Chairman Anthony Romano are introducing additional funding for increased public safety measures at Hoboken’s Church Square Park. Per a County of Hudson press release, Guy and Romano called upon the commissioners to approve this measure. If approved, Hudson County will provide $100,000 to the City of Hoboken to purchase and install public safety equipment and infrastructure at Church Square Park.
Jersey City’s Artwalk Towers Secures $175 Million in Financing
A multi-phased development that will add over 1,000 housing units and a new museum has obtained a construction loan in Journal Square. Per Jersey Digs, Kushner Real Estate Group announced it has secured $175 million in construction financing for the first phase of Artwalk Towers. Kennedy Wilson issued the note for the project, which will rise across the street from the Journal Square PATH station. The plan was tweaked a bit earlier this year, as Artwalk Towers will now include space for the stalled Pompidou museum.
Jersey City Announces Melida Rodas as Poet Laureate
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Mayor Steven Fulop, the Jersey City Arts Council (JCAC), and the Jersey City Office of Cultural Affairs announced Melida Rodas as Jersey City’s next Poet Laureate. Per the Hudson County View, this prestigious position provides an opportunity for a talented poet to engage with the community, celebrate the literary arts, and contribute to the cultural vitality of Jersey City. The position of Poet Laureate was established by a resolution of the City Council in 2018. The term of service is two years with an honorarium of $3,000 per year.
Hudson County Sheriff’s Office Launches Roving DWI Enforcement Effort
The Hudson County Sheriff’s Office launched a roving driving while intoxicated (DWI) enforcement effort on November 27th, which will continue through Saturday, November 30th. Specially trained officers will monitor key areas known for high traffic and potential DWI incidents. The enforcement detail includes saturation patrols, and proactive measures to identify and apprehend those committing DWI offenses. The public is encouraged to report any suspected impaired driving by calling 201-915-1300.
Class 3 E-Bikes Must be Registered, City of Hoboken Says
In an effort to regulate commercial delivery services, Hoboken is now requiring those who use electric bikes or scooters for delivery to register with and receive a license from the City as of this fall, as well as take a quiz, pay a small fee, and wear a high-visibility yellow vest when delivering. The news comes after a proposal to license those who use e-bikes for delivery was previously passed earlier this year. In addition, the City recently reminded residents that those who use Class 3 e-bikes (for both delivery and recreational use) must have their vehicle registered with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) under state law. Click here for more.
Harrison Man Convicted for Armed Robbery in Weehawken
A Hudson County jury convicted a Harrison man on November 22nd for his involvement in an armed robbery that occurred in Weehawken in 2022. Per a Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office press release, Mouhamed Ba, 31, arranged to purchase an electronic device from the victim through an online selling platform. He then robbed and assaulted the victim at gunpoint when meeting at the agreed-upon location. Mouhamed faces 10 to 40 years in New Jersey State Prison at sentencing, which is tentatively scheduled for January 10th, 2025.
Mario’s Pizza Hosts Its Annual Free Thanksgiving Dinner
Local Hoboken favorite — Mario’s Classic Pizza — hosted a free Thanksgiving meal once again this year. The dinner, according to its owner, Mario Albunia, was for Hudson County locals in need of a warm + inviting place to go for the holiday and has become a 20+ year tradition that truly brings the season of giving to our Mile Square community. Click here for more.
Hudson County Executive Announces $260,000 in Federal Funds for Vision Zero Action Plan
Vision Zero Chairman and Hudson County Executive Craig Guy announced on November 25th an award of $260,000 in federal funds from the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program, created by the United States Department of Transportation. Per a County of Hudson press release, Hudson County will utilize this award to further develop its Vision Zero Action Plan through supplemental planning activities, with the goal of reducing fatal traffic accidents to zero countywide.
Hoboken Resident Kerry Magro Launches New Children’s Book to Raise Autism Awareness
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Kerry Magro, award-winning professional speaker, best-selling author, and Hoboken resident, announced via Instagram that his latest children’s book, Santa Goes the Extra Mile for Children with Disabilities is available now on Amazon. The book narrates the journey of Alex, a young autistic boy, who collaborates with Santa Claus to create a magical, sensory-friendly Christmas experience for children of all abilities. Children will gain insight into the challenges their peers may face and the ways they can help create a welcoming, accepting environment for everyone.
Five-Alarm Fire in Bayonne Displaces 17 People
The Bayonne Fire Department was notified of a fire at 458 Avenue C in Bayonne on November 22nd at approximately 11:45AM. Per the Hudson County View, emergency responders observed heavy smoke, and fire in an apartment bedroom. The fire spread to several adjoining structures and became a five-alarm fire. There were no injuries or fatalities caused by the fire, while six apartments were damaged and 17 people were displaced. The fire originated in an apartment bedroom and the cause remains under investigation by the Hudson County Regional Arson Task Force and the Bayonne Fire Department.
City of Hoboken to Expand Police Department to 156 Officers
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Mayor Ravi Bhalla and the City Council sub-committee on public safety announced on November 26th a preliminary agreement to increase the Hoboken Police Department’s Table of Organization (TO) from 146 to 156 officers. Per a City of Hoboken press release, in response to recent safety concerns, the City hopes to add 10 more police officers. The ordinance to expand the TO will be introduced at the City Council meeting on December 4th. The ordinance would go to a final reading at a subsequent meeting.
Hudson Regional Hospital Takes over Bayonne Medical Center for Hudson Health System
Hudson Regional Hospital (HRH) officials took over operations for the Bayonne Medical Center on November 26th, the next step for Hudson Health System, which will include HRH and all three CarePoint Health hospitals. Per the Hudson County View, HRH President and CEO Dr. Nizar Kifaieh said they have reopened facilities such as the cardiac catheterization laboratory, which specializes in treating heart attacks. A spokesperson for the hospital said they plan to remodel the cafe, pharmacy, and emergency room as well.
New Jersey Residents Pay More in Taxes Than Anywhere in the United States
Residents in New Jersey pay more in taxes over their lifetimes than those in any other state, according to a recent study by Self Financial. Per New Jersey Digest, the analysis, titled A Life of Tax, estimates the average American will pay $524,625 in taxes over a lifetime. New Jersey’s tax burden surpasses that figure, with residents paying an average of $987,117 throughout their lives.
FREE Burgers This Friday at 2 Hoboken Bars
This article is sponsored by The Light Group.
Few things taste better than a burger and a beer on a warm Friday afternoon. In fact, the only thing that might have that scenario beat is a free burger and a beer on a warm Friday afternoon. On Friday, March 7th, two Hoboken bars are serving up just that with Hoboken’s first-ever Free Burger Friday. From 5PM-10PM, all burgers on the menu at Texas Arizona and River Street Garage will be completely free for any patrons dining in. You’ll still have to pay for that beer, but fries come included too. Keep reading to learn more about Free Burger Friday, happening March 7th at Texas Arizona and River Street Garage in Hoboken, New Jersey.
Event Details
No, this isn’t an early April Fool’s Day prank: The Light Group, the restaurant group behind Texas Arizona and River Street Garage, is hosting its first-ever Free Burger Friday in Hoboken. This means that on Friday, March 7th, every burger (fries included) at these two spots will be free from 5PM to 10PM. A peek at some of the options:
From Texas Arizona:
- The Classic: an 8oz. Burger topped with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, + onion
- TAXZ: an 8oz burger topped with pepper jack cheese, sauteed onions, poblano chilies, + chipotle aioli
- Texas Turkey Burger: an 8oz burger topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, + cheddar cheese
- River Street: an 8oz burger topped with pepper jack cheese, bacon, shredded lettuce, + the signature TA sauce
- Cali: an 8oz burger topped with pickles, avocado, bacon, swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, + Russian dressing
- Bang Bang Shrimp Roll: crispy fried shrimp tossed with bang bang sauce and scallions, served on a Cuban roll
The special deal applies to dine-in orders at Texas Arizona (76 River Street) and River Street Garage (80 River Street) only, but there’s no additional purchase necessary. Reservations are encouraged, but not required, and can be made here.
Beyond the Burger Scene
Texas Arizona and River Street Garage aren’t the only downtown bars under The Light Group umbrella. Several Hoboken hot spots like Green Rock, McSwiggan’s, and The Waiting Room are part of the locally-owned restaurant group. Saku, an upscale sushi spot uptown, is another member of the family.
At the helm of this Mile Square empire is former MLB pitcher Patrick Light, who continues reimagining Hoboken’s nightlife scene. Free Burger Friday is the most recent of several fun initiatives, following the success of The Waiting Room’s seasonal pop-ups and Patrick’s “reverse cover” model where, instead of paying a cover fee, Hoboken bars will pay you to attend.
Beyond the burgers, Texas Arizona and River Street Garage are go-tos for a fun night out in town. Texas is a longstanding sports bar, with dozens of TVs streaming various sporting events at any given time. River Street Garage is one of the only live music spots in downtown Hoboken, with a consistent roster of local bands and artists every weekend.
Don’t forget, Texas Arizona will be hosting Free Burger Friday, on March 7th from 5PM to 10PM.
Texas Arizona is located at 76 River Street in Hoboken. To check out the menu or make a reservation, visit the site.
