Education

Hudson County Community College Announces Resignation of Dr. Christopher M. Reber to Accept New Presidency

Hudson County Community College announced that President Christopher M. Reber, Ph.D. (pictured here) is resigning effective June 30, 2026, and will go on to serve as President of Harrisburg University of Science and Technology.

Hudson County Community College (HCCC) Board of Trustees announced that the College’s President, Dr. Christopher M. Reber, has tendered his resignation effective June 30, 2026. Dr. Reber has accepted the position of President of Harrisburg University of Science and Technology in Harrisburg, PA.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I want to thank Dr. Chris Reber for his dedicated leadership and eight years of service to Hudson County Community College,” said HCCC Board of Trustee Chair Jeanette Peña. “We are grateful for his many contributions and wish him continued success in his new position.”

Michael Fiaschetti, Chair of the Harrisburg University Board of Trustees, stated the experience Dr. Reber brings to the table, and “his undeniable energy and enthusiasm leave no doubt in my mind that HU’s future is in capable hands.”

Dr. Reber came to HCCC in July 2018. Under his leadership, HCCC earned several national honors, including the 2024 Bellwether Legacy Award for HCCC’s acclaimed Hudson Scholars student success model. Dr. Reber himself was named Community College CEO of the Year by the American Association of Community Colleges in 2024 and Executive of the Year by the New Jersey Business & Industry Association in 2025.

In announcing his resignation to the HCCC community, Dr. Reber wrote: “It has been the honor of my life and career to work side by side with all of you! I will always love Hudson County Community College and its people.” He continued: “Thank you for calling and entrusting me to serve you over

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General

Lou Gomez’s Memoir “Almost Famous” details a career in Music that Spans 65 Years

Publisher’s note: With the recent passing of Lou Gomez we are rerunning this article for those of you who would like to know about Lou’s book, RIP my friend

Career in music had Lou Gomez close to fame and the famous

ByTris McCall

The time is 1968.  The sound on the charts is bubblegum pop: snappy choruses, bright, chiming guitar, voices in harmony, and lyrics about candy and crushes.  The Ohio Express, one of the foremost bubblegum bands, is touring behind Top Ten hits “Yummy Yummy Yummy” and “Chewy Chewy.” And the man driving the irresistible beat?  That’s Lou Gomez, drummer and singer from Bayonne, New Jersey.

Fast forward to 1975. Styles have changed, and the bubblegum era has given way to the sophistication of funk and disco.  A band called Hudson County has gotten the party started in North Jersey with an underground hit called “Bim Sala Bim.”  Though the song is a dancefloor burner, it’s got a serious message, the inspiration behind it is serious: the resilience, optimism, and wisdom of a homeless person in New York City.   Once again, the guy laying down the groove — and the writer of the song, too — is Lou Gomez.

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Local Events

Local Events for Monday, April 20, Tuesday,April 21st and Wednesday, April 22nd for Jersey City, Hoboken, Bayonne


JERSEY CITY-MONDAY APRIL, 20, 2026

Yoga Series at JCEDC
Time: 5:30 PM
Location: Jersey City Economic Development Corporation, 398 Martin Luther King Drive, Jersey City, NJ
Details: Community yoga, breathing, and relaxation techniques. Cost is $10 at the door.

Wednesday, April 22, 2026 (Earth Day)
Jersey City Earth Day & Arbor Day Celebration
Time: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Location: City Hall Balcony, 280 Grove Street, Jersey City, NJ
Details: Official community celebration including environmental awareness initiatives.

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Local Events

Local Events For Sunday, April 19th & Monday, April 20th Jersey City, Hoboken, Bayonne and Secaucus

Sunday, April 19, 2026
Jersey City Marathon & Half Marathon 2026
Time: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Neighborhoods throughout Jersey City (Double-loop course)
Description: The fourth annual marathon and half -marathon, offering runners a tour of the city’s diverse districts. Expect significant traffic impacts and cheering zones along the route.

Hoboken Literary Weekend: Finale
Time: Various times throughout the day
Location: Hosted by Little City Books (100 Bloomfield St, Hoboken) and other local venues like Mile Square Theatre.
Description: The final day of the festival featuring book readings, discussions, and author signings.

Sunday, April 19, 2026
CKO Bayonne Grand Opening Celebration
Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: 1033 Broadway, Bayonne, NJ 07002
Description: Official grand opening for the local fitness studio.

Wellness Morning at Level Up Studio
Location: Level Up Studio, Bayonne, NJ
9:30 AM: Strength Flex – focused on mobility and strength training.
10:30 AM: Physical Therapy & Pelvic Floor Consultations.
11:30 AM: Nutrition Workshop – covering macros, body recomposition, and realistic nutrition.


Monday, April 20, 2026
Combo Gaming Event
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: The Vic Tavern (107 Hobart Ave, Bayonne, NJ).
Description: A regular social gaming night where participants can bring their own games or use those provided by the tavern.

Crafty Monday
Time: 5:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: Hoboken Public Library (500 Park Ave, Hoboken, NJ).
Description: A 30-minute screen-free crafting session designed for relaxation and creativity.

Learn ASL: Beginner Sign Language
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Hoboken Public Library (500 Park Ave, Hoboken, NJ).
Description: An interactive beginner-level hybrid class for those interested in learning American Sign Language.

Classic Book Club
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Secaucus Public Library (1379 Paterson Plank Rd, Secaucus, NJ).
Description: A community book club meeting to discuss classic literature.

Noel Sagerman Trio & Jam Session
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: The Brightside Tavern (141 Bright St, Jersey City, NJ).
Description: A jazz performance followed by an open jam session for local musicians.

Play-Doh Playdate
Time: 5:15 PM
Location: Guttenberg Resource Center (7002 JFK Blvd East, Guttenberg, NJ — adjacent to North Bergen/West New York).
Description: A social event for young children and caregivers focused on creative play.

Have an event? Want us to post the event for you? Please email 2 weeks before the event https://www.riverviewobserver@gmail


Jersey City News

JCPD OFFICERS INTERRUPT VIOLENT ROBBERY IN PROGRESS, ARRESTING 4 ADULTS AND 1 JUVENILE

Jersey City Police Patch worn by officers that interrupted violent Robbery in Progress

Mayor James Solomon commends the swift, proactive police work by Jersey City Police Officers this week that led to five arrests following a violent robbery attempt involving approximately $3,000 in designer merchandise.

While patrolling the nearby housing unit on April 13, JCPD officers observed a disturbance near Summit Avenue and immediately intervened, stopping an active incident before further harm could occur.  The investigation determined the suspects arranged to meet the victim for a sale before assaulting him and attempting to take his property.

“This is exactly the kind of proactive, on-the-ground policing that keeps Jersey City safe.  Our officers stepped in at the right moment, prevented further violence, and ensured those responsible were held accountable,” said Mayor Solomon.  “We will continue to support strategies that prioritize swift response, strong enforcement, and the safety of every resident.”

“This was a fast-moving, violent situation that had the potential to escalate quickly.  Our officers recognized it in real time, intervened without hesitation, and took decisive action to stop it.  That is what effective policing looks like,” added Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose.

The victim sustained minor injuries, including abrasions and bruising, and refused further medical treatment.

The driver, Erik Lagunas, was issued multiple summonses, including leaving the scene of an accident and driving with a suspended license.  Additionally, the 18-year-old Paterson resident was arrested and charged with the following:

  • Conspiracy
  • Robbery
  • Simple assault
  • Assault by auto
  • Possession of a weapon
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault

The other 4 actors were charged with conspiracy, robbery, and simple assault.  In addition to the juvenile actor, a 17 year old Clifton, the 3 suspects arrested are:

  • Carmelo Greene, 21 of Paterson
  • Kelvin Pichardo, 27 of Paterson
  • Emil Nauffal Gutierrez, 21 of Clifton

The investigations remain active.

Anyone with information related to this or other incidents is asked to contact the Jersey City Police Department or submit tips anonymously through email at policetips@njjcps.org or by calling 855-JCP-TIPS

Local Events

Events for Wednesday April 15th, Thursday, April 16th for Jersey City, Hoboken and Bayonne



Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Jersey City
Love Island Watch Party: Beyond the Villa viewing with cocktails.
Time: 7:00 PM
Venue: Boots & Bones, 116 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07302

Amy Neufeld Art Show: Exhibition featuring artist Amy Neufeld; free entry with vegetarian menu available.
Time: 7:00 PM
Venue: Pet Shop, 193 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07302

Candle Making Workshop: Guided workshop by Paint by the Pints.
Time: 7:00 PM
Venue: San Patricios | The Life of Reilly, 8 Erie Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302
Cost: $55

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Local Events

Taste Your Way Through Hoboken at the Hoboken 7th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival on April 11th, 2026

Ready, set, let’s eat some Mac & Cheese at the Hoboken Annual Mac & Cheese Festival.

Set your taste buds on the food crawl format, as participants stop at many designated Mac & Cheese stops throughout Hoboken”

Participating Mac & Cheese stops

Wonder

River Street Garage

The Waiting Room

Antique at 112

Carlo’s Bakery (sweet treat stop)

Dipped N’ Smashed (sweet treat stop.

The Brass Rail

Green Rock Tap & Grill

GTK (VIP Exclusive)

Madd Hatter

Hoboken Biergarten

The Madison Bar + Grill

Napoli’s Brick Oven Pizza

Pizza Republic

Texas Arizona

Urban CoalHouse (GA + VIP Exclusive Offer)

How to chow down at the Mac & Cheese Festival?https://www.ticketsignup.io/TicketEvent/HobokenMacCheeseFest

If tickets are still available

If You Go:

7th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival

April 11th, 2026

Variety of stops

Local Events

Events for Thursday, April 9th, Friday, April 10th, Saturday, April 11th and Sunday, April 12th, 2026 for Jersey City, Hoboken, Bayonne and Secaucus

Thursday, April 9, 2026
Easter Kids Boat Party Cruise: A themed cruise for children departing from the Liberty Harbor Marina Boatyard (15 Marin Blvd, Jersey City) at 10:00 AM.

LSC After Dark: A weekly 21+ nightlife event at the Liberty Science Center (222 Jersey City Blvd, Jersey City) starting at 6:00 PM.

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Local Events

Local Events for April 6th, April 7th, 2026 for Jersey City, Hoboken, Bayonne and Secaucus

Monday, April 6, 2026
Noel Sagerman Trio Plus Jam Session
6:00 PM
The Brightside Tavern, 141 Bright Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302
A live jazz performance followed by an informal jam session where local musicians are invited to play.

Combo Gaming Event: Chess
7:00 PM
The Vic Tavern, 107 Hobart Avenue, Bayonne, NJ 07002
A social and competitive gaming event featuring chess in a bar environment.

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Local Events

Local Events for Friday, April 3, Saturday, April 4th and Sunday (Easter) April 5th for Jersey City, Hoboken, Bayonne and Secaucus

LYNDHURST (OUTSIDE HUDSON EVENT

Friday, April 3, 2026
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: 149 Polito Avenue, Lyndhurst, NJ (Near Secaucus)
Details: A classic dinner theater experience featuring a medieval-style tournament and jousting.

HOBOKEN

Art Camp for Kids
Time: 9:00 AM
Location: Hugs & Bugs Club, 537 Park Avenue, Hoboken, NJ
Details: A creative camp for children aged 3.5 to 7, exploring nature materials and art techniques.

JERSEY CITY

Tomoko Omura Quintet (Jazz & Folk Fusion)
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: The Statuary, 53 Congress Street, Jersey City, NJ
Details: A live jazz and folk fusion performance. A $25 donation is suggested.

JERSEY CITY

The Laugh Tour Comedy Club
Time: 8:45 PM
Location: Dorrian’s Red Hand, 555 Washington Street, Jersey City, NJ
Details: Stand-up comedy featuring comedians from Netflix and Comedy Central. Tickets are approximately $25.

JERSEY CITY

Karaoke @ Biergarten
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: Pilsener Haus & Biergarten, 1422 Grand Street, Hoboken, NJ
Details: Late-night karaoke in a traditional beer garden setting.

HOBOKEN

Bollywood Mehfil Night
Time: 10:30 PM
Location: The Ainsworth, 310 Sinatra Drive, Hoboken, NJ
Details: Live Bollywood music by the band ANAHAT followed by a DJ afterparty.

JERSEY CITY

Saturday, April 4, 2026
Annual Easter Egg Hunt (Jersey City)
Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Berry Lane Park, Jersey City, NJ
Details: A major community egg hunt featuring treats and family activities.

SECAUCUS

Secaucus Easter Egg Hunt
Time: 12:00 PM
Location: Schmidts Woods Park, 26 Millridge Road, Secaucus, NJ
Details: Traditional egg hunt for children with various prizes for finding hidden eggs.

JERSEY CITY

Easter FunDay
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Smile Pre School, 194 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ
Details: A free, inclusive event supporting Whole Spectrum Autism with games and activities.

JERSEY CITY

Van Vorst Park Easter Egg Hunt
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Van Vorst Park, Jersey City, NJ
Details: Morning egg hunt in the historic downtown park area.

BAYONNE

CAT NIP BAND: Springtime Live
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: The Vic Tavern, 107 Hobart Avenue, Bayonne, NJ
Details: Live rock and roll performance at a local Bayonne favorite known for thin-crust pizza.

JERSEY CITY

Buffy Prom
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: White Eagle Hall, 337 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ
Details: A themed dance party event inspired by “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”.

HOBOKEN

Kenny Raye Band Live
Time: 10:00 PM
Location: Willie McBride’s, 616 Grand Street, Hoboken, NJ
Details: High-energy rock, pop, and funk fusion performance.
JERSEY CITY
Sunday, April 5, 2026
Jersey City Night Market
Time: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: City Hall Ancillary Lot, Jersey City, NJ
Details: An open-air festival with local food vendors, artists, and live music. Free to attend.
JERSEY CITY

Easter Weekend Kids Party Cruise
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Liberty Harbor RV Park (Boarding point), 11 Marin Blvd, Jersey City, NJ
Details: A festive boat cruise for families with music and games on the water.
JERSEY CITY

Sing Along Sundaze
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: The Factory, 451 Communipaw Avenue, Jersey City, NJ
Details: A lively musical brunch experience described as a high-energy dining event.

HOBOKEN

Easter Egg Hunt & Cookie Painting
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: The Little Play Co., 1400 Hudson Street, Hoboken, NJ
Details: A combined holiday event featuring egg hunting and creative cookie decorating.

JERSEY CITY

James McMurtry & BettySoo Concert
Time: Check venue for specific doors
Location: White Eagle Hall, Jersey City, NJ
Details: A live performance featuring acclaimed singer-songwriter James McMurtry.

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