Hudson County Community College (HCCC) is the recipient of Insight Into Academia’s 2026 Civic Engagement and Community Service Award for the Hudson Oral History Project (HOHP). Pictured here: HOHP Co-Directors Antonio Acevedo, Associate Professor of History (rear right), and Dr. Sean Egan, Assistant Professor of English(rear center) and program student intern Victoria Lenga (front left), with Jaya Jones (rear left) and Rose Marie Shields (front right), HCCC students who were awarded Microhistories Fellowships.

Hudson County Community College (HCCC) has been honored with Insight Into Academia Magazine’s Civic Engagement and Community Service Award for the College’s Hudson Oral History Project (HOHP). The award celebrates colleges and universities that demonstrate sustained commitment to serving their communities and advancing the public good.

“We are honored to receive this award that reflects the College’s role in the history of Journal Square, and how residents and businesses witnessed and adapted to changes,” said HCCC President Dr. Christopher Reber. “The Hudson Oral History Project involves intensive research, interviews, and collaboration. Special thanks to Assistant Professor Dr. Sean Egan and Associate Professor Antonio Acevedo, who established and oversee this enriching grant-supported project.” 

The College’s HOHP captures the evolution of Journal Square, documenting stories from a broad range of people whose lives were shaped in significant ways by the area. One of the most diverse regions in the United States, Jersey City’s Journal Square has seen dramatic economic, residential, and commercial changes in the lives of the project’s interviewees. The HOHP highlights the joys, heartbreaks, triumphs, and tragedies of those changes – underscoring the neighborhood’s distinctive character and the forces that shaped American urban life. Dr. Reber said the project is especially meaningful as the College began in Journal Square with a single, rented building, and its physical growth – which now includes more than a dozen buildings – has served as the catalyst for the area’s revitalization.

The HCCC project includes faculty, student fellows, and community members from all walks of life. The project has provided valuable opportunities for HCCC students to work in the Humanities. Three project interns received training in oral history interviewing and transcript editing. They participated in events including Neighborhood Stories, HCCC 50^th Anniversary Kickoff, and Oral History Workshop. Separately, HOHP developed the Microhistories Fellowships, which provide Student Fellows with a stipend, program support, and technical resources to carry out their own oral history projects. The first group of Fellows is focusing on backstories and challenges of Black business owners and spotlights emerging young, Black entrepreneurs; showcasing how literature builds community among Black, Indigenous, and People of Color; and producing documentary podcasts featuring interviews with underprivileged citizens and addicts to compassionately depict the dangers in their daily lives.

“Higher education has always been a driving force in societal progress,” said Holly Mendelson, owner and publisher of Insight Into Academia. “These institutions remind us that the true measure of higher education lies not only in the degrees awarded, but in the lives they uplift. Their leadership strengthens communities, inspires students, and sets a standard of excellence for all.”

Hudson County Community College’s Hudson Oral History Project will be featured in the April 2026 issue of Insight Into AcademiaMagazine.

The post Hudson County CommunityCollege Receives Insight into AcademiaCivic Engagement and Community Service Award first appeared on River View Observer.

Lee Sims, the iconic Chocolate store at 743 Bergen Avenue, in Jersey City, is open on Sundays in March for Easter.

Open on March 15th, March 22nd and March 29th from 10am-3pm

Phone 201-433-1308

Visit their website @ https://www.leesimschocolates.com

The post Lee Sims Chocolates Open Sunday for Easter Gift Giving first appeared on River View Observer.

Bayonne High School Drama Society is proud to announce its upcoming spring musical, Mean Girls. The production is directed by Lori Alexander, a former Broadway performer whose professional experience and passion for theatre bring exceptional energy and expertise to the BHS stage. Featuring more than 70 talented student performers, musicians, and members of the technical and stage crew, this high-energy show promises an unforgettable theatrical experience for the entire community.

Mean Girls follows Cady Heron as she navigates the wild and hilarious world of high school cliques after moving from Africa to suburban Illinois. As she encounters “The Plastics” and learns the ups and downs
of popularity, the story delivers sharp humor, catchy songs, and a heartfelt message about friendship, identity, and staying true to yourself.

Ms. Alexander shares that she is thrilled to bring this vibrant production to the Bayonne community. “The themes of Mean Girls are always timely,” she says. “There’s so much heart beneath the humor, and I’m
incredibly proud of the dedication and talent our students have brought to this show. Audiences are going to have a wonderful time.”

Performances will be held at Bayonne High School’s Alexander X. O’Connor Auditorium, 669 Avenue A, Bayonne, New Jersey.

Performance Dates:
Friday, March 13 at 7:00 PM
Saturday, March 14 at 7:00 PM
Sunday, March 15 at 2:00 PM

Ticket Prices:
$15 Adults
$10 Students and Senior Citizens

*Mean Girls is recommended for ages 12 and up.

Tickets are available online at bhsdrama.booktix.com.

The post Bayonne High School Presents Mean Girls March 13-15, 2026 first appeared on River View Observer.

Gene Perry is a lifelong Bayonne resident with over 61 years of experience in the city. A graduate of Centenary University with a degree in business administration and a minor in finance, Gene has spent over 34 years working in the cargo transportation industry. He has also been deeply involved in Bayonne’s youth and community organizations, including the Bayonne Police Athletic League, Bayonne Wrestling Association, and Bayonne Little League, where he has volunteered for more than 25 years.

“Gene Perry represents the kind of leadership Bayonne needs right now,” said Sharon Ashe Nadrowski. “He understands the First Ward because he’s lived it his entire life. Gene brings honesty, experience, and a willingness to listen, qualities that are essential for restoring trust in local government and delivering real results for our residents.”

Gene’s decision to run is rooted in his belief that meaningful change happens when community members step forward to be part of the solution. His priorities include responsible budgeting, community safety, stronger oversight of local industrial operations, and protecting programs that support Bayonne’s children and families.

“I’m proud to support Gene Perry as a candidate for First Ward Council,” Nadrowski added. “Together, we are committed to working with residents, addressing long-standing concerns, and building a Bayonne that is safer, stronger, and better prepared for the future.”

Gene Perry’s candidacy reflects a shared vision with Sharon Ashe Nadrowski’s mayoral campaign—focused on accountability, collaboration, and putting Bayonne residents first.

The post Sharon Ashe Nadrowski Names 1st Ward Council Running Mate first appeared on River View Observer.

Events in Bayonne are primarily centered around the public library and local school activities. 

• In-Person ESL Class: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the Bayonne Public Library, Classrooms A and B. This session is designed for adults and seniors looking to learn English.
• Flu and COVID Vaccination Clinic: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM at the Bayonne Public Library, 2nd Floor Gallery. These free seasonal clinics also offer high-dose flu shots and Jynneos (Monkeypox/Smallpox) vaccines.
• Bayonne Book Club Meeting: 7:00 PM at the Bayonne Public Library, Small Programming Room (2nd Floor). The January 2026 meeting features a discussion of Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman. Attendees may participate in person or virtually via Zoom.
• Bayonne Public Schools – IReady Lit Task: An all-day academic event for students in grades K-3 across the district.
• Boys Varsity Basketball: 4:15 PM. Bayonne High School will play against Hoboken High School at the Hoboken High School Gym.
  • Junior Varsity (JV): 5:45 PM.
  • Freshman: 7:00 PM. 

Note: A previously scheduled Bayonne Public Schools class visit to the library at 9:30 AM has been cancelled. 

Secaucus Events

Secaucus events for this date include a health-focused webinar and local high school sports.

• Managing Your Back Pain (Webinar): 10:30 AM. This free Zoom webinar is hosted by the HSS Department of Orthopedic Surgery to help residents understand different types of back pain.
• Girls Varsity Ice Hockey: 5:00 PM. Secaucus High School will face off against Newark East Side at Secaucus High School.
• Library Hours: The Secaucus Public Library and the Katherine Steffens Annex are open for standard Thursday hours. The Main Library is open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and the Annex is open from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. 
• Jersey City Events
• Trivia Night at 902 Brewing Co. at 7:00 PM at 101 Pacific Avenue (902 Brewing Co.): Test your knowledge while enjoying craft beers at this dog-friendly brewery.

Jersey City Connects | Candle Making Workshop at 6:30 PM at 225 Hutton Street (The Hutton Restaurant and Bar): Create your own custom candle with all materials provided.

Hotel California: An Exhibition by Flying Knight at 6:00 PM at 159 Morgan Street (Canopy by Hilton Jersey City Arts District): Attend the opening of an art exhibition by Jayda Knight.

LSC After Dark at Liberty Science Center at 6:00 PM at 222 Jersey City Boulevard (Liberty Science Center): A nightlife event for adults (tickets available).

“Can’t Cancel Stoopid” Live Comedy Show at 7:30 PM at Art House Productions: A live stand-up comedy show featuring several comedians.

Hoboken Events
Kids Art Classes at the Museum at 10:00 AM at 1301 Hudson Street (Hoboken Historical Museum): Fun art-making classes for children aged 2-5 (must be accompanied by an adult).

Everyone Can Do Yoga at 1:00 PM at 500 Park Avenue (Hoboken Public Library): A mindful yoga class for all experience levels led by Jane Porges.
After School Story Time at 3:30 PM at 500 Park Avenue (Hoboken Public Library): Enjoy books, music, and movement after school.

KPop Demon Hunters Trivia at 4:00 PM at 500 Park Avenue (Hoboken Public Library): Join a KPop-themed trivia game with prizes for winners.

Jillian Pransky: The Power of the Pause at 7:00 PM at 100 Bloomfield Street (Little City Books): A workshop on mindfulness and slowing down reactive thought patterns. Tickets are available for $10 on the Eventbrite page.

Bayonne Events
Events in Bayonne are primarily centered around the public library and local school activities.

In-Person ESL Class: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the Bayonne Public Library, Classrooms A and B. This session is designed for adults and seniors looking to learn English.

Flu and COVID Vaccination Clinic: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM at the Bayonne Public Library, 2nd Floor Gallery. These free seasonal clinics also offer high-dose flu shots and Jynneos (Monkeypox/Smallpox) vaccines.

Bayonne Book Club Meeting: 7:00 PM at the Bayonne Public Library, Small Programming Room (2nd Floor). The January 2026 meeting features a discussion of Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman. Attendees may participate in person or virtually via Zoom.

Bayonne Public Schools – IReady Lit Task: An all-day academic event for students in grades K-3 across the district.

Boys Varsity Basketball: 4:15 PM. Bayonne High School will play against Hoboken High School at the Hoboken High School Gym.
Junior Varsity (JV): 5:45 PM.
Freshman: 7:00 PM.
Note: A previously scheduled Bayonne Public Schools class visit to the library at 9:30 AM has been cancelled.

Secaucus Events
Secaucus events for this date include a health-focused webinar and local high school sports.

Managing Your Back Pain (Webinar): 10:30 AM. This free Zoom webinar is hosted by the HSS Department of Orthopedic Surgery to help residents understand different types of back pain.

Girls Varsity Ice Hockey: 5:00 PM. Secaucus High School will face off against Newark East Side at Secaucus High School.

Library Hours: The Secaucus Public Library and the Katherine Steffens Annex are open for standard Thursday hours. The Main Library is open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and the Annex is open from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.

The post Event List for Thursday, January 29th, 2026 for Bayonne and Secaucus Jersey City, Hoboken, first appeared on River View Observer.

Caption: Hudson County Community College (HCCC) will offer “Steve Madden Presents the 2026 Career Closet Fashion Show: Your Runway to Success”  on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at the HCCC Culinary Conference Center in Jersey City. Pictured here are HCCC students and staff on the runway at the last fashion show.

 January 23, 2026, Jersey City, NJ – Hudson County Community College (HCCC) is proud to welcome Steve Madden, Ltd. As the premier sponsor of the Hudson Helps Resource Center (HHRC) Career Closet Fashion Show, an annual fundraiser supporting student success and workforce readiness.

The post Hudson County Community College Welcomes Steve Madden as 2026 Fashion Show Gold-Level Sponsor first appeared on River View Observer.

The River View Observer announced in its December 1, 2025, issue that, starting January 1, 2026, within each issue of our 2026 issues, we will showcase a photo taken by Stephen A. Mack, our part-time River View photographer for the past 15 years.

We thought the best way to kick off Mack’s photo series was by placing him as our January 1st, 2026, cover story, or rather a story in pictures.
Mack has been involved with photography for over 30 years, a love for taking photos began early in his life, what made him serious about his love for photography was when an old girlfriend entered a picture of Mack’s in Long Beach Island’s photo contest without Mack’s permission, he won, only to find out when he received a $100 check in the mail as the first place winner.

The post The Photography of Stephen A. Mack first appeared on River View Observer.

River View Observer Sports Contributor

The Hoboken Rockets demonstrated that heart, experience, and teamwork remain essential in hockey.

Entering the Winter 2025 American Dream Hockey League playoffs as underdogs, the Red Hoboken Rockets rallied from a 4–8 regular-season record to capture the league championship, shutting out Momma’s Boys 3–0 in the title game at The Arena at American Dream.

The championship run was anything but predictable. After barely qualifying for postseason play, the Rockets caught fire at the right time, winning three straight playoff games with disciplined play, balanced scoring, and strong goaltending.

The post Hoboken Rockets Defy Odds to Win American Dream Hockey League Championship first appeared on River View Observer.