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Jersey City News

The Mercy House to Host Baby Showers for Expectant Mothers in Need

Celebrations Begin March 18 in Newark

he Mercy House, a ministry of the Archdiocese of Newark, will host its first-ever baby showers for expectant mothers in need at its three locations. The events will take place in Newark on March 18, Jersey City on April 3 and Elizabeth on June 4, each beginning at 11 a.m.

During each celebration, expectant mothers will enjoy refreshments and receive gift bags filled with essential baby supplies, including diapers, wipes, ointment and toys. Mercy House staff and volunteers also will be available to discuss ongoing support services for mothers after childbirth.  Additionally, attendees will have a chance to win raffle prizes such as a stroller, a car seat and other new baby equipment.

“These baby showers are not only a joyful way to celebrate expectant mothers, but they also serve a critical purpose in providing much-needed supplies,” said Cheryl A. Riley, director of The Mercy House. “Many women we serve can’t afford traditional baby showers, where gifts often overflow. These events ensure they receive essential items to help care for their newborns.”

The baby showers reflect The Mercy House’s origins as a resource and referral center specifically for pregnant women and mothers. While its mission has expanded to serve anyone in need, The Mercy House remains committed to assisting mothers by providing food, clothing and nursery necessities. In fact, diapers and children’s clothing continue to be among the most requested items at its locations. 

“When a woman learns she is expecting, it can feel overwhelming — especially if she doesn’t have the resources or a support system,” Riley said. “At The Mercy House, we want all mothers to know they are not alone. We are here to help ensure they have everything they need to help raise their children. These baby showers highlight that commitment.” 

Despite these new baby shower events, The Mercy House will continue its traditional spring celebrations, including its Easter Candy Giveaway on April 14 in Jersey City, April 15 in Newark and April 16 in Elizabeth. Additional gift giveaways will be held for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day in May and June, respectively.

Founded in 2018, The Mercy House provides nonperishable food, clothing, baby supplies, furniture and assistance finding employment and housing for anyone in need. Its three locations in Newark, Jersey City and Elizabeth serve approximately 300 people weekly.

To volunteer or donate, contact Cheryl A. Riley at cheryl.riley@rcan.org. For more information, visit www.rcan.org/mercy-house.

About the Archdiocese of Newark?

The Archdiocese of Newark serves 1.3 million Catholics throughout Bergen, Essex, Hudson, and Union counties. The Archdiocese has 211 parishes, 67 Catholic schools, and many missions and ministries. Hundreds of Masses are celebrated in more than a dozen languages each week. Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., the sixth archbishop of Newark, leads the Archdiocese with four auxiliary bishops. Together, they serve the northern New Jersey community through faith, education, and social services. For more information, visit www.rcan.org.

art scene, Art Views

Moderator Cheryl Mack andBridge Art Gallerpy presents Artist Talk

Expressive Creative SoulArt Exhibition + Artist TalkSunday, March 23rd3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Join us for an engaging artist talk featuring the talented participants of the Expressive Creative Soul Art Exhibition, curated by Bridge Art Gallery. This dynamic conversation will be led by Cheryl Mack from Bridge Art Gallery, who will sit down with artist Lana Abrahams Murawski to explore her artistic journey and creative inspirations. Additionally, Dr. Antoinette Ellis-Williams will engage in a thought-provoking dialogue with her brother, artist Stephen B. Ellis, delving into themes of artistic expression, identity, and personal storytelling. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insight into the creative process and the powerful narratives behind the artwork!
? Nimbus Art Center – 329 Warren Street, Jersey City, NJ 
? Sunday, March 23rd | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

FREE TO ATTEND
RSVP
Bayonne News, Bayonne Observer insidebayonne.com

MAYOR’S CORNER-Thnking About St. Patrick’s Day

Mayor Davis 2018 Inaugural
Bayonne Mayor James Davis

Bayonne Mayor James Davis

This month, much of the world will celebrated St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, the anniversary of the death of the patron saint of Ireland.  St. Patrick is credited with converting Ireland to Christianity in the fifth century after Christ.

Today, there are well over seventy million people around the world of Irish descent. For Irish-Americans, this feast day is a time for us to celebrate the contributions that Irish immigrants and their descendants have made to this country.

There is scarcely an area of American life that has not been touched by Irish-Americans.  Just to take a recent example, a few weeks ago, the NBC television network celebrated the 50th anniversary of Saturday Night Live.  During its history, that show has featured such Irish-American cast members as Jane Curtin, Bill Murray, Will Ferrell, Jimmy Fallon, Chris Farley, Colin Quinn, Molly Shannon, Julia Sweeney, and Nora Dunn, among others.  Martin Short, another former cast member, is Irish-Canadian.

Elsewhere in television, Irish-Americans have made their mark as great talk show hosts:  Stephen Colbert, Conan O’Brien, Steve Allen, Merv Griffin, Mike Douglas (real name: Michael Delaney Dowd, Jr.), and Jimmy Fallon (after leaving Saturday Night Live).

The ancestors of many American presidents came from Ireland: John F. Kennedy, Bill Clinton, Ronald Reagan, Barack Obama (on his mother’s side), Richard Nixon, James K. Polk, Andrew Jackson, Woodrow Wilson, Ulysses Grant, William McKinley, and others.

Here in Bayonne, the Irish began arriving in large numbers in the 1800’s. Most came here with very little money and a willingness to work hard. Many of the early Irish immigrants lived in the old Fourth Ward (now part of the First Ward) in the Bergen Point area. Bayonne’s Irish-American community has been noted for its large presence in the government sector.  Irish-American elected officials, police officers, firefighters, civil servants, school administrators, and teachers have played major roles in our city’s history.

Wherever the Irish have gone, they have brought their religious faith, great music, and gift for language with them.  The Irish also carry memories of suffering from religious persecution, poverty, foreign occupation, and the Great Hunger of 1845-51. 

Millions of Irish-Americans are grateful for the opportunities this country has provided.  Irish-Americans should be proud of our progress in this country and of our cultural heritage.

On Sunday, March 23, when Bayonne is having our annual St. Patrick’s Parade.  We begin marching at 1:00 p.m. at 5th Street and Broadway.  The parade will move up Broadway to 39th Street.  It will move westward on 39th Street to Avenue C, and then will march northward up Avenue C to the viewing stand between 40th and 41st Streets.  Finally, the parade will finish up in the front portion of Gregg-Bayonne County Park.  I look forward to seeing you at the parade!   

General

Exit on the Hudson Realty Listings

NEW LISTING!

COMMERCIAL BUILDING

 HIGH TRAFFIC SPOT – BAYONNE

Excellent commercial building, formerly a doctor’s office but is perfect for a dentist, accountant, or even retail. Fully renovated in 2001; includes a waiting room, front office, four exam rooms, two private offices, two half baths, and storage space. Parking for up to four cars!!

Asking $699,000

NEW LISTING!

RENOVATED 2BR UNIT

MIDTOWN BAYONNE

Beautifully renovated, this second-floor unit offers both comfort and convenience. It is just two blocks to 34th St. Light Rail, so commuting is a breeze! New windows, Refrigerator, and washer/dryer are in the basement, and there is shared access to the yard and designated basement storage space. The unit is close to schools and a variety of shopping options, including Costco, Starbucks, and more!

Asking $2,500 per month

NEW LISTING!

RENOVATED 3BR UNIT

MIDTOWN BAYONNE

This is a completely updated first-floor apartment with beautiful hardwood floors throughout. The kitchen has stainless appliances. Heat and hot water are included in the rent, and there is a coin-operated washer/dryer in the basement.

Asking $2,300 per month

To see more listings visit https://www.exitonthehudson.com

Travel

One of the Least Expensive Places to Travel This Year

Playa Chiquita – Wild beach close to Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

According to Travel Today Magazine, Costa Rica is one of the least expensive places to travel this year.

A Look at Costa Rica.

What’s not to love with lush jungles, stunning beaches, vibrant wildlife; Costa Rica is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

It is a very affordable place to travel, lodging and activities may be more expensive than other destinations. Travel Magazine Today suggests ways to cut costs; take advantage of the many free or cheap activities Costa Rica offers, such as hiking, biking, and bird watching

Worried about food costs? Costa Rica has plenty of inexpensive restaurants that serve delicious local food.

Costa Rica’s public transportation system is reliable and affordable.

https://travelingtodaymag.com

Bayonne News, Bayonne Observer insidebayonne.com

Career Opportunities in Law Enforcement

WANTED BAYONNE RESIDENTS 18-34 YEARS OF AGE

POLICE OFFICER FOR THE CITY OF BAYONNE

STARTING SALARY – $42,081.63                                           PLUS BENEFITS

The Law Enforcement Examination (LEE) will be administered by the

 New Jersey Civil Service Commission.

Applications must be submitted on the New Jersey Civil Service Commission Website located at www.state.nj.us/csc

Instructions and prerequisites for completing and filing out the application are listed on the website.

Applications are available online from March 1st to March 31st, 2025

See the New Jersey Civil Service Commission Website for the latest information.

Bayonne Police Recruitment Division 201-858-6917

THE CITY OF BAYONNE AND THE BAYONNE POLICE DEPARTMENT    ARE EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS -WOMEN AND MINORITY GROUPS ARE ENCOURAGED TO  APPLY

     

Bayonne News, Bayonne Observer insidebayonne.com, Hudson People

Shihan Austin Wright Sr. Is published and recognized in DAOS & International Martial Arts Magazine 

One of Bayonne’s Best, an  International World Karate Champion and Author who is renowned across the globe, Grandmaster Austin Wright Sr. is one of America’s Okinawa Isshin Ryu Karate Legends.

Sensei Wright recently graced the pages of this month’s International Martial Arts magazine and Deadly Art of Survival Magazine(DAOS) magazine, which is a testament to his enduring legacy in combat arts. His seminal work, “The Universal Warrior Arts System,” stands as a beacon of wisdom, guiding countless young and old aspirants on their journey to mastery.

With each turn of its pages, a new generation of black belts embraces the profound teachings of ancient martial prowess and self-defense, embodying the spirit of the Universal Warrior Arts System – Spiritually Motivating Inspiration for Self Defense and his personal success story. 

Shihan Austin Wright published Author
Events, General, Out Door Events

2025 Jersey City Beer Craft Festival

Cozy up to a dazzling, sip-tacular Saturday at The 2025 Jersey City Craft Beer Festival, a blockbuster beer extravaganza that will wow your palate and level up your fall with incredible flavors. We’re talking 3.5 Hours of endless brews, taking place at the stunning Harborside Atrium starting at 6:00pm on Saturday March 22, 2025. Views of the Manhattan skyline and waterfront vibes? We’re all in!

Access to 3.5 Hours of Tastings of 100+ Ales, Porters, IPA’s Sours and more sourced from local, national, and international breweries

Casual beer enthusiasts to beer aficionados will find bliss, so take your souvenir tasting glass and drink up! Just steps from the waterfront, immerse yourself in this stunning autumnal escape with unrivaled views of the city and the shimmering Hudson River. This expansive, light-filled space will play host to an adventure where every pour feels like a journey through vineyards far and wide.

Interactive games and live music will level up the energy as you and your crew make your way through a staggering array of libations. Each bottle has been curated to showcase exquisite wines, featuring revered labels like Tom River Brewing, Angry Erik Brewing, Birdsmouth Beer, Jersey Cyclone, Czig Meister and more. The brewers themselves will be deck, eager to unveil their coveted creations and answer all your viticulture-related questions.

As you bite into eats like Angry Archie’s Lobster Rolls, Chavas Empanadas and more (for purchase) the golden hues of the sunset reflect off the Freedom Tower and the skyline transforms into a masterpiece, raise a glass to an unforgettable Saturday…

Jersey City Craft Beer Fest

harborside atrium

6-9:30PM

Jersey City, NJ 

https://beerfestnewyork.com/jersey-city-craft-brew-fest

Jersey City News

Jersey City Ranks as 2nd Most Ethnically Diverse City in the Nation

2nd most diverse city in State of New Jersey

The Fulop Administration is proud to announce Jersey City has been recognized as the second most ethnically diverse city in the United States, according to a recent study by WalletHub.  The study evaluated over 500 of the largest U.S. cities, assessing key indicators such as ethnicity and race, language, and birthplace diversity.

As noted by Mayor Fulop “Our diverse community is one of our strongest assets, bringing together unique cultures, perspectives, and talents that sets us apart,” “This recognition highlights our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels safe and welcome with equal opportunities for all.”

Jersey City has consistently ranked among the top in previous years, often securing the first position.  In its findings, WalletHub points to several key aspects:

  • In Jersey City, white people are not the largest ethnic group, unlike in the country as a whole.
  • Hispanics make up the largest ethnic group in the city, at around 26%, while Asians are 25% of the population, White people are 24%, and Black people are 20%.
  • Many people in Jersey City speak foreign languages at home, which shows that people are preserving and passing down their cultures.

The city’s dedication to inclusivity is underscored by its status as a sanctuary city and the Fulop Administration’s establishment of the Division of Immigrant Affairs and Office of Diversity and Inclusion.  Additionally, the Mayor’s commitment to diversity recruitment has led to minority representation throughout all ranks in the police and fire departments.  These efforts support diverse communities by providing resources and services that promote integration and equal opportunity.

As Jersey City continues to evolve, its diverse population remains a cornerstone of its identity, driving cultural enrichment and economic growth.

To view the full study, visit Wallethub.com.

Hudson People, Politics-

Assemblywoman Barbara McCann Stamato Condemns $4 Million Cut to Jersey City Schools and Advocates for Bayonne’s Educational Needs

Assemblywoman Barbara McCann Stamato (D) who represents the 31st Legislative District strongly condemned the state’s proposed $4 million cut to Jersey City schools, criticizing the ongoing underfunding of the city’s education system. The proposal comes at a time when Bayonne, another historically underfunded district, still requires additional resources to meet the needs of its students.

“Budgets are about priorities, and by cutting another $4 million from Jersey City schools, the state is once again showing that our students and teachers are not a high priority,” said Assemblywoman Barbara McCann Stamato. “This decision undermines the progress we’ve worked so hard to make in improving our schools, and it is especially damaging for Jersey City’s students, who already face significant challenges. At the same time, we must not forget that Bayonne, another district in need, continues to be underfunded and should be a focus of additional investment, not cuts.”

As a strong advocate for education, Assemblywoman McCann Stamato is committed to taking action to restore this critical funding. “As a member of the State Assembly, I will do everything I can to ensure these cuts are reversed. Our schools deserve adequate funding, and our students must have the necessary resources to succeed.”

Assemblywoman McCann Stamato has also made it clear that if these cuts are not restored, she will not support the State Budget. “We cannot allow these cuts to stand. If the state does not prioritize our students and their education, I will not support the state’s budget.”

Assemblywoman McCann Stamato remains committed to fighting for fair and equitable funding for Jersey City schools, Bayonne, and all schools across New Jersey, advocating for policies that ensure every child has access to a high-quality education.

About Assemblywoman Barbara McCann Stamato:

njleg.state.nj.us/legislative-roster/484/assemblywoman-mccann-stamato
Assemblywoman Barbara McCann Stamato represents Legislative District 31 in the New Jersey State Assembly, where she works tirelessly to advocate for fair education funding, economic justice, and policies that support the well-being of her constituents and their families.