Category Archives: Jersey City News

Jersey City News, Politics-

COUNCILMEMBER JAMES SOLOMON’S CAMPAIGN FOR MAYOR OF JERSEY CITY IS ENDORSED BY CLIMATE CABINET ACTION

The endorsement positions him as the progressive, climate-centered candidate in the race for Mayor.

Today, Jersey City Councilmember James Solomon received the endorsement of Climate Cabinet Action, a national advocacy organization for comprehensive climate policy in states and cities across the country. Climate Cabinet Action focuses on local candidates in high-impact races, and this is a top-priority race for Climate Cabinet Action. 

“I’m honored to receive the endorsement of Climate Cabinet Action, and I am proud to be the climate candidate in the race for Jersey City Mayor,” said Councilmember Solomon. “From Hurricane Sandy to Tropical Storm Ida to the torrential downpours we’re receiving even this week, climate change is already making life in Jersey City much harder. On the City Council, I’ve led on climate resiliency to protect us from what’s coming. As your Mayor, I will ensure our most vulnerable communities are protected from the devastating effects of the climate crisis while continuing to stand up to the state’s wasteful turnpike expansion – and I will fight for more mass transit options, more green infrastructure, and more open spaces across our city.”

Jersey City News

Fulop Administration Announces Hiring of New Executive Director

new executive director

Councilwoman Mira Prinz-Arey to Step Down from City Council to Lead JCEDC’s Next Phase of Growth

Mayor Steven M. Fulop andthe Jersey City Economic Development Corporation (JCEDC) are proud to announce Mira Prinz-Arey as the organization’s new Executive Director.  A dedicated public servant and two-term City Council member, she will officially assume the full-time role beginning April 14, stepping down from her elected position to focus on expanding Jersey City’s economic development efforts.

The JCEDC Executive Director role was created earlier this year to guide the nonprofit’s next chapter of growth under its comprehensive five-year economic development plan.  After a competitive search and interview process, Prinz-Arey was selected for her extensive leadership experience in government relations, policy development, management capabilities, and community organizing.

“While she will be missed on the City Council, Mira’s deep understanding of our city’s needs, combined with her proven leadership, makes her uniquely qualified to drive the strategic initiatives that will create jobs, support small businesses, and strengthen Jersey City’s economy for years to come,” said Mayor Fulop.

“The Board is excited to welcome Mira as the new Executive Director,” said Rosemary McFadden, JCEDC Chair.  “With her at the helm, the JCEDC is poised to further enhance its impact and drive sustainable development citywide.”

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Jersey City News, Pet Adoption

Millie is Ready for Her Forever Home

Millie is a 3-year-old German Shepherd looking for her furever home! She’s about as happy-go-lucky as a big dog can get, always with a smile on her face and a wag in her tail! She can be chatty when she wants attention, like any German Shepherd, but she’s not so needy as to need constant attention or food, mainly just wanting to let you know that she’s ready for a walk or wants to go outside! Speaking of walks, she’s very well behaved on a leash, not pulling all that much, and responding to commands with no issue. Millie is a dog with a lot of energy, so a larger space would be highly preferred, or backyard access so she has somewhere to get out the zoomies! Millie would be the perfect family dog to complete your home.

If you want to adopt Millie, please go to jcnj.org/adopt to submit an application, or call us at 201-547-5700 during business hours for more information.

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.

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.

Jersey City News

Jersey City Mayor Fulop Delivered his 2024-2025 State of the City Address as He Begins His Final Year in Office

Fulop delivers last State of the City Message

Mayor Steven M. Fulop delivered his 11th annual State of the City address to a large crowd inside City Hall Council Chambers Thursday night, outlining a bold vision for the future of Jersey City and highlighting the city’s accomplishments over the past year.

In his live-streamed address, Mayor Fulop celebrated the historic progress made over the past 12 years in office, raising the bar for what governments can achieve at every level and establishing Jersey City as the economic backbone for the state of New Jersey.

Mayor Fulop credited the community partnerships, department leaders, and city employees for driving progress and putting the administration’s bold ideas into action.  “Twelve years ago, we set out to make Jersey City a model for urban success. Today, we stand together as a city transformed, a place where families thrive, businesses flourish, and opportunities exist for everyone.”

Notable 2024 highlights from the State of the City address include:

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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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Jersey City News

Jersey City Fire Department Swears in 23 New Graduates

Mayor Steven M. Fulop joins the City Council and Public Safety Department to announce the swearing-in of 23 new graduates to the Jersey City Fire Department.  In addition to celebrating the newest class of firefighters, the ceremony also included the promotion of 11 distinguished firefighters to leadership positions.

“Promoting 11 of our own who have worked hard to keep our community safe coupled with the graduation of these 23 new firefighters further strengthens our fire department and reinforces Jersey City’s reputation as a leader in public safety,” said Mayor Fulop.  “Our community deserves nothing less than the best, and these new and ranking firefighters exemplify the dedication, discipline, and courage it takes to protect and serve our city.”

“Today’s announcement reflects Jersey City’s commitment to maintaining one of the most well-trained and responsive fire departments in the state,” said Public Safety Director James Shea.  “We have the best and largest fire department in New Jersey, and I have no doubt their extensive training and dedication will help guide our department into the future, ensuring that Jersey City remains at the forefront of fire safety and emergency response.”

“The recruits have successfully completed rigorous training and are prepared to respond to a wide range of emergencies, from structural fires to medical emergencies.  These new firefighters are the latest recruits to join the department’s ongoing mission to provide the highest level of safety and service to the Jersey City community,” added JCFD Chief Jack Johnson. 

These promotions highlight the department’s ongoing efforts to reward excellence and build a diverse and skilled leadership team:

Deputy Chief:

Jason Kane

Battalion Chief:

Michael Mandriota

Miguel Rios

Joseph Menendez

Greg Fuehrer

Captain:

Anthony Montagne, Sr.

Christopher Pittaro

Jordan Lang

Nicholas Andreula

Herman Ortez

Matthew Finnerty

The Jersey City Fire Department continues its commitment to protecting the lives and property of the community while fostering a culture of excellence, diversity, and leadership development within its ranks.

Events, Jersey City News, Local Happenings

Fulop Administration & New Jersey Symphony Announce New Permanent Headquarters & Performance Hall Located in Jersey City for Premier Symphony Orchestra Fulop Administration

New 550+ Seat Venue in Jersey City to Focus on both Live Performances and Continued Inner City Youth Education

Mayor Steven M. Fulop and the New Jersey Symphony announced today the renowned Symphony’s relocation to a new state-of-the-art, 44,000-square-foot theater in Jersey City’s downtown Powerhouse Arts District. 

Today’s announcement marks an important new chapter for the Symphony and Jersey City, offering a dedicated permanent location that will serve the local community and contribute to the Symphony’s ongoing activities across the state.

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Jersey City News

Jersey City’s Pet Project gets Boost from NBCUni “Clear the Shelters” Campaign, Helping Shelter Animals Find Forever Homes & $100k in Matching Donations

Jersey City pet services

Jersey City Animal Care and Control (JCACC) has joined NBCUniversal Local’s 10th annual Clear the Shelters pet adoption and donation campaign from August 10 through September 10.  Since its inception in 2015, Clear the Shelters has helped more than one million pets find new homes and raised millions of dollars for participating shelters and rescues.? Animal shelters and rescues across the country are facing economic hardships due to a historically high number of pet surrenders and feral overpopulation.

This year, Greater Good Charities, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, and The Animal Rescue Site are joining NBCUniversal Local’s Clear the Shelters™ pet adoption and donation campaign.  They have teamed up to help raise funds for participating animal welfare organizations across the country via ClearTheSheltersFund.org. For the next two weeks, they will contribute $100,000 in matching donation dollars.

Jersey City has enlisted the expertise of Behavior Plus to work bi-weekly with our staff and animals to enrich, maintain, and develop adoptability.  On-site veterinarians perform routine and emergency medical care for the animals in the shelter’s care.

Mayor Steven M. Fulop put Jersey City’s new shelter under the care of Health and Human Services last winter and has watched closely as the new management, who answers directly to the mayor, is improving the lives of surrendered and stray animals. “The shelter is now open and accessible to residents six days a week or with an appointment.  Additionally, we continue to add new services to improve the lives of strays and pets that end up in the shelter.”

As part of these efforts, the JCACC will take its pets public on September 8 with an event on Barrow Street to help find homes for shelter animals.  Residents will be able to meet and adopt our four-legged shelter friends. Working with the HSS’s Partnership for a Healthier JC, the Historic Downtown SID, K-9dergarden, Fussy Friends, Barky Way, and Hound About Town, the JCACC will offer adoptions free for qualified pet parents. Adoption fees are dropped to $10 in the weeks up until the event, and there are no adoption fees for veterans or seniors who want to bring some love into their lives.

“The goal is to find homes for as many of our wonderful dogs and cats as possible, says HHS Director Stacey Flanagan, “Jersey City residents have big hearts and love animals, and now is the time when their generosity can be doubled.”

To contribute, go to the Jersey City Animal Care & Control donation page.  This year’s donation page was built courtesy of Fundraise Up, an online donation platform that helps nonprofits grow revenue.  When donating to the Clear the Shelters Fund, donors have the option to cover transaction fees with their donation so that 100% goes directly to the shelter or rescue of their choice.

About Jersey City Animal Care & Control

On January 1, 2024, Jersey City launched a full-service Animal Care and Control shelter to ensure the humane treatment for animals in need by establishing 24/7 operations, on-site dog licensing with adoptions, expanding operating hours for more public access, and working with the community to create a robust volunteer program.