Bayonne News, Bayonne Observer insidebayonne.com, Insidebayonne.com

Bayonne Fire Department Holds Promotion Ceremony for Battalion Chiefs and Captains

  Recently, in the Bayonne City Council Chambers, the Bayonne Fire Department held a ceremony for six new battalion chiefs and eleven new captains.  The promotions took place to refill the ranks following recent retirements in the department.

       New Bayonne Fire Department Battalion Chiefs:  Mayor Jimmy Davis and the Fire Department leadership posed with the department’s newly promoted battalion chiefs (BC’s). Pictured left to right: Mayor Jimmy Davis, Fire Chief Keith Weaver, BC Christopher Czuba, BC Theodore Wolf, BC Michael Smith, BC Edward Ratyniak, BC Roger Nunez, BC Marcial Pivano, Deputy Fire Chief William Bartos, and Public Safety Director Robert Kubert. 

      New Bayonne Fire Department Captains:  Mayor Jimmy Davis and the Fire Department leadership posed with the department’s new captains: Mayor Davis, Fire Chief Keith Weaver, Captain Steven Pilanski, Captain Timothy Lynch, Captain James Pilger, Captain David Sisk, Captain Brian Petty, Captain Jeffrey Spengler, Captain Thomas Weber, Captain Richard Baccarella, Captain Michael Visone, Captain Brian Cotter, Captain Kevin Pietranico, Deputy Chief William Bartos, and Public Safety Director Robert Kubert. 

    The new battalion chiefs are Christopher Czuba, Theodore Wolf, Michael Smith, Edward Ratyniak, Roger Nunez, and Marcial Pivano.

           Battalion Chief Christopher Czuba is a graduate of Bayonne High School. He earned a degree in HVAC Technology at Lincoln Technical Institute. He was appointed to the Bayonne Fire Department in 1999. His extensive training and certifications include: Hazardous Material Tech, Confined Space, Fire Officer 2, Fire Official, and Fire Investigator.  He has earned several awards including Unit Citations for rescue on June 6, 2004 on 30th St. and Kennedy Blvd., and a Team Effort Award from the Cooperman Barnabas Burn Center for the rescue of a person who was trapped in rising floodwaters of Hurricane Ida in September 2021.

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Bayonne News, Bayonne Observer insidebayonne.com

Mayor’s Corner-Bayonne Mayor James Davis-DR. KING’S ENDURING MESSAGE

Mayor Davis Martin Luther King
Dr. Martin Luther King Day

            On Monday, January 20, we will observe the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. national holiday.  This day should remind us about his life’s mission – equality for all Americans. By backing the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Dr. King fought for equal rights for all Americans, regardless of race, color, creed, sex, or national origin. 

Martin Luther King, Jr. is not simply a figure from the past. Fifty-seven years after his death, Dr. King’s words and actions remain relevant to today’s issues.  Recent acts of violence that were rooted in religious and racial hatred reminded us all that Dr. King’s work remains to be fulfilled.  Across the country over the years, Americans have been killed, just because they were Black, White, Hispanic, Jewish, Asian, Native American, gay, or members of other groups. The hatred and the violence must stop. 

Now, more than ever, we need to respect each other.  Now, more than ever, we must become neighbors.  Now, more than ever, we must work together to become one nation.  As Americans, we have roots in many countries around the world.  As Dr. King said, “We may have all come on different ships, but we’re all in the same boat now.”  We must not remain in our silos, caring only about ourselves.  Dr. King pointed out that “life’s most persistent and most urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”

During Dr. King’s lifetime, Americans tended to think about better community relations as having mostly to do with Blacks and Whites, Catholics, Protestants, and Jews.  Since his passing, our country has become much more diverse.  We have more people here now from many other ethnic, racial, and religious groups. The same principles I discussed above still apply to how we should behave towards each other, now with more groups than we had in the 1960’s.  Accepting each other, regardless of our ethnic, racial, and religious backgrounds, and gender or orientation, remains the great challenge of American life. 

John Hume, a Catholic civil rights and political leader from Northern Ireland, was inspired by Dr. King.  Mr. Hume said, “Difference is the essence of humanity. Difference is an accident of birth, and it should therefore never be the source of hatred or conflict. Therein lies a most fundamental principle of peace: respect for diversity.”

            The first step towards a better nation is to recognize everyone who lives here as our fellow Americans.

Best Picks of the Week, In the News

Revolutionizing School Safety:Skool Dogs K9 Heroes in Action

By Monica Prestia @stefani_style www.stefanistyle.com 1/6/25

In Vineland, New Jersey, at Cumberland County Technical Education Center (CCTEC), an extraordinary guardian is safeguarding students and staff while bringing a sense of comfort and security to the community. K9 Meadow, a specially trained security dog from Skool Dogs, is redefining school safety with an innovative and proactive approach.

School safety remains a top concern nationwide, with educators, parents, and communities searching for effective solutions to prevent potential threats. Enter K9 Meadow, a four-legged protector who is not just a security measure but a beloved part of the school community. From walking the halls to interacting with students, Meadow seamlessly integrates into the daily rhythm of school life while maintaining an unwavering readiness to respond to emergencies.

Meadow is part of a groundbreaking initiative spearheaded by Skool Dogs, a company operating state-of-the-art training facilities in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida. With a mission to address safety concerns in schools, places of worship, and public spaces, Skool Dogs patented Active Shooter Response Program equips K9s with the skills to identify and respond to potential threats. These dogs are trained to detect firearms, ammunition, explosives, narcotics, and more—a critical capability in today’s world.

Meadow, named in honor of Meadow Pollack, a victim of the Parkland, Florida, school shooting, works tirelessly to ensure the safety of students and staff at CCTEC. Handled by Steve Manera, Meadow exemplifies the dedication and effectiveness of the Skool Dogs program, bringing both security and a sense of community to the school.

What sets Skool Dogs apart is their commitment to proactive safety measures. Unlike traditional security approaches, which often involve reactive responses, Skool Dogs’ K9 units live within the schools they protect during school hours. This unique approach allows them to build relationships with students and staff while fostering a sense of peace and safety in the school environment. For students at Cumberland County Technical Education Center, seeing Meadow each day offers a reassuring presence—a constant reminder that their safety is a priority.

“Having K9 Meadow at our school has been transformative,” says Dina Rossi, school superintendent at CCTEC. “Not only does she provide an added layer of security, but she also brings joy and comfort to our students and staff. Meadow is truly part of our family.”

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Events, Jersey City News, New Jersey Night Life

Art House Productions’ Snow Ball Gala: Entertainment Lineup, Festivities & Honorees

Art House Productions Snowball Entertainment 2025

Come one, come all to the magical Snow Ball! Art House Productions and presenting sponsor SILVERMAN proudly announce the 17th Annual Snow Ball Gala on Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 8 PM to 11 PM, with an exclusive VIP Honoree Dinner starting at 6 PM. The event will be held at Hudson County Community College’s Culinary Arts School and Conference Center, 161 Newkirk St, Jersey City, NJ 07306. This year’s theme, Spectacle of Wonder, brings the enchantment of the circus to life as we celebrate the vibrant arts and culture scene in Jersey City and honor the incredible individuals who champion Art House Productions’ mission to support artists and enrich Hudson County through exceptional arts programming. Creative black-tie attire is encouraged.

Art House is thrilled to honor the following outstanding contributors to Jersey City’s arts community:

  • Hudson County Executive: Craig Guy
  • Jersey City LGBTQ+ Pride Festival Producer: Eddie Baez
  • Executive Director of the Historic Downtown Special Improvement District (HDSID): Rachel Sieg
  • Artist, Curator, and Arts Advocate: Bryant Small
  • President and CEO of Jersey City Medical Center RWJ Barnabas Health: Michael Prilutsky
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Your Money

New Jerseyans ‘On the Fence’ About Their 2025 Finances, Survey Finds.

 Survey asks respondents to rate their financial optimism for 2025 on a scale of 1 to 10.

  • The average New Jerseyan achieved a 19% return on their 2024 investments.
  • Interactive map included.

New Jerseyans report being ‘on the fence’ as they look ahead to 2025. A survey of 3,000 respondents conducted by MarketBeat.com asked people to rate their financial optimism for the coming year on a scale of 1 to 10. New Jerseyans scored a 6 out of 10, aligning with the national average, while Hawaii residents led the pack with an impressive 9/10 optimism rating. It seems challenges like rising interest rates and global economic uncertainty are weighing heavily on New Jerseyans’ financial outlook for 2025

This wavering attitude corresponds to their performance in 2024, when the average New Jersey investor saw a 19% return on their investments, which was again in line with the national average.

The top 10 investment performers of 2024 are:

1.    Hawaii – 32% return
2.    Alaska – 26% return
3.    New York – 24% return
4.    South Dakota – 24% return
5.    Louisiana – 23% return
6.    Oklahoma – 23% return
7.    Idaho – 22% return
8.    New Mexico – 22% return
9.    Tennessee – 22% return
10.  California – 21% return

Interactive map showing a state-by-state breakdown of investment growth this past year (click on ’embed’ to host on your site)

How Are New Jerseyans Putting Their Gains to Work?
A significant number are choosing to reinvest in 2025, seeing it as an opportunity to keep building their portfolios and grow their wealth further. Others are using this financial boost to tackle long-standing debt or build up emergency savings, which have become a higher priority in uncertain times. Some are also setting money aside for personal goals – whether that’s education, travel, or other meaningful pursuits.

What’s on the Horizon for 2025?
Rising interest rates are a big concern for many New Jerseyans, especially for those managing loans or mortgages. Global economic uncertainty and market volatility are also keeping people on alert. 

A Balanced Approach to Financial Growth
How are New Jerseyans using their money? For many, it’s all about balance. Paying off debt is a priority for some, as rising interest rates make this a smart move. Others are focusing on saving for the future, ensuring they’re ready for whatever comes next. And then there are those who are reinvesting—building on their success in 2024 and keeping an eye on long-term growth.

“These results underscore the remarkable adaptability of today’s investors,” says Matt Paulson, founder of MarketBeat.com. “Rather than exclusively chasing high returns, they’re diversifying their strategies—bolstering emergency funds, paying down debt, and selectively reinvesting for long-term growth. As we head into 2025, this balanced approach will be instrumental in navigating market shifts and unlocking new opportunities in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.”

Marketbeat.com

Education

Hudson County Community College to Welcome Malcolm X’s Daughter, Dr. Ilyasah Shabazz


Dr. Shabazz will be Guest Speaker at the College’s Annual
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial event.

Caption: Dr. Ilyasah Shabazz, published author, public speaker, activist, and daughter of the late Malcom X will be the guest speaker at Hudson County Community College’s Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial on January 28, 2025.

December 20, 2024, Jersey City, NJ – Malcolm X fought racial injustice by any means necessary, advocating armed resistance and separatism; Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. espoused peaceful protests and community organizing to end segregation and fight discrimination. Although the Muslim revolutionary leader and the Baptist minister differed in their advocacy and philosophical approaches, their legacies are intertwined. Before they were both assassinated at age 39, they built the foundation for future generations of activists.

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Bayonne News

MAYOR’S CORNER-Bayonne Mayor Jimmy Davis-Hanukkah

Mayor Davis 2018 Inaugural
Bayonne Mayor James Davis

            This week, our friends and neighbors in the Jewish community will be celebrating Hanukkah, which is known as the Festival of Lights.  The festival recalls the events in the years 167-165 B.C. when the Seleucid Empire outlawed the Jewish religion in Israel.  The Seleucid king ordered the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem to be turned into a place of worship for the pagan god, Zeus.   That king also ordered that pigs be sacrificed there.  Pigs are considered unclean by Jews and many others, and their meat is not kosher under traditional Jewish dietary laws. The Jews rebelled successfully against the Seleucids and rededicated the Temple to the Jewish faith.  Although there was only enough oil to light the Temple for one day, the oil provided light for eight days.  This miracle was the origin of Hanukkah as the Festival of Lights.  A special lamp called a menorah contains spaces for candles or lights that can be illuminated for each of the eight days of Hanukkah, plus an extra one in the middle. The menorah is one of the national symbols of the Jewish people.

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Bayonne News

MAYOR’S CORNER-Bayonne Mayor Jimmy Davis-A Christmas Story

Cleaning Litter

My fondest memories of the holiday season go back to Thanksgiving nights growing up.  After Thanksgiving dinner at my grandmother’s apartment in Jersey City, my father would drive us back to Bayonne.  My sister and I would always anticipate what would happen after our car made a right onto 29th Street, and then a left onto Broadway.  Suddenly, there it was – the sight of holiday lights and decorations on Broadway.  We would drive down the whole shopping district seeing lights.  In those days, big decorations crossed Broadway from one side of the street to the other.  The anticipation of getting there was a big part of childhood.

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Business Travel, General, Travel

Amtrak Guest Rewards Celebrates Milestone of Eclipsing 20 Million Enrolled Members

Loyalty program success aligns with the growth of ridership and train travel demand

Amtrak Guest Rewards, the loyalty program for America’s Railroad, has reached a historic milestone, welcoming its 20 millionth enrolled member, who alongside fellow members have started earning points toward Amtrak reward travel, upgrades, gift cards, and more. This achievement comes as Amtrak Guest Rewards members now make up nearly half of Amtrak’s ridership.

“Reaching 20 million enrolled Amtrak Guest Rewards members is a testament to Amtrak’s commitment to enhancing the customer experience, providing our guests with outstanding value,” said Amtrak Assistant Vice President Loyalty and Customer Engagement Lisa Copeland. “We thank all of our members and look forward to welcoming future members aboard to experience all Amtrak Guest Rewards has to offer.”

The 20 million enrolled Amtrak Guest Rewards members milestone comes on the heels of recent additions and improvements Amtrak has made to its loyalty program, train service, and customer experience, leading to record-breaking ridership of 32.8 million customers in its Fiscal Year 2024. This includes Points & Cash, a major enhancement that allows members to pay for Amtrak travel using a combination of points and cash, the new Borealis service between St. Paul and Chicago, which carried 100,000 customers in less than six months, the reinvention of the Cafe Acela menu, and more, with several new developments and improvements set to come within the next year and beyond.

Joining Amtrak Guest Rewards is free and members can immediately start earning points toward Amtrak reward travel and other redemptions, upon enrollment. Members earn two points per dollar spent on Amtrak travel, plus a 25% point bonus for Business Class travel and a 50% point bonus for Acela First Class travel. Amtrak Guest Rewards members with Tier status receive additional point bonuses on travel, as well as benefits to elevate the customer experience, including upgrades, lounge access, and companion coupons. Members can book reward travel to experience Amtrak Across America for as few as 400 points.

About Amtrak®

Amtrak is seizing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform rail and Retrain Travel. By modernizing, enhancing, and expanding trains, stations, and infrastructure, Amtrak is meeting the rising demand for train travel. Amtrak offers unforgettable experiences to more than 500 destinations across 46 states and parts of Canada. Learn more at Amtrak.com, download the Amtrak app, connect with us on X, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn, and join Amtrak Guest Rewards to start earning points toward Amtrak reward travel, upgrades, gift cards, and more.

Bayonne News, General

Bayonne-Mayor’s Corner-Mayor James Davis-Turnpike Bridge Update

Cleaning Litter

          Last week, the City of Bayonne took part in a meeting with Coast Guard and Turnpike officials about the historic impact of the proposed reconstruction of the Turnpike between Exit 14 and Jersey City.  

          The Turnpike Authority proposes replacing the existing Newark Bay Turnpike Extension Bridge with two new bridges with four lanes in each direction.  The reconstruction will also include improved earthquake protection for the new bridges, improvements in the exit/entrance area, and the creation of new stormwater collection systems.  The plan calls for starting construction on the work between Exits 14 and 14A in 2026.  The goal would be to open the new Newark Bay bridges by 2031.

          The existing Newark Bay Bridge is getting worn down.  According to the Turnpike Authority, environmental factors and heavy truck traffic have caused serious damage to the quality of the bridge.  During the meeting, the Turnpike Authority presented photos that demonstrated the effects of wear and tear on the structure. We have to recognize that the bridge is almost seventy years old.  It is not in good enough shape to handle modern traffic volume for very much longer.  Yet another patch job will not solve the bridge’s problems.

          As is required by law, the Turnpike Authority is making serious efforts to protect historic properties and archeological sites along the route of the bridge and the roadway.  While preparing for construction, the Turnpike is working to respect Native American sites, the route of the former Morris Canal, railroad properties, and other historic resources along the way. 

The City of Bayonne has requested to receive some pieces of the bridge’s span that could be displayed here after it is demolished.  That would be a way to preserve some artifacts from the existing bridge while supporting vitally important Turnpike improvements. 

          The City of Bayonne will make additional progress by continuing to work with the Turnpike Authority on this extremely important project.

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