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.

The post Jersey City Ranks as 2nd Most Ethnically Diverse City in the Nation first appeared on River View Observer.

– Mayor Steven M. Fulop joins the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) to announce FEMA Disaster Assessment Teams will visit all six wards to provide direct outreach and resources to Jersey City residents still recovering following the remnants of Hurricane Ida, which brought severe flooding, wind, and other related damage to the area on September 1st and 2^nd.  

“A lot of our residents’ homes were hit hard by the storm.  Thatâ€s why we fought to make sure the federal funding was made available to our residents,” said Mayor Fulop. “Jersey City residents are already struggling after a year and a half of financial hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and so we want to help everyone get the financial assistance that is available and that they are entitled to following Ida.”   

The Cityâ€s Mobile Community Resource Unit (otherwise used as a mobile vaccination site) will be used by FEMA to establish Disaster Recovery Centers to provide direct support to residents registering for FEMAâ€s Individual Assistance programs. The Resource Unit will provide a visible, fixed location for area residents to speak with FEMA representatives and report their claims. At the same time, DSA teams, made up of FEMA representatives, will canvas the surrounding neighborhoods for outreach and assessment.   

The Disaster Recovery Centers and DSA teams will be deployed in all six wards on the following dates:   

Monday, September 20, 2021  

Locations:  

9 a.m. – Staging area St. Paulâ€s Avenue & Palisade Avenue  

1 p.m. – Staging area Bowers Street & Palisade Avenue  

Tuesday, September 21, 2021  

Locations:  

9 a.m. – Staging area Division St & Newark Avenue  

1 p.m – Staging areas Garfield Avenue & Bayview Avenue  

Residents can learn more about federal resources, eligibility, and registration for Individual Assistance claims through FEMAâ€s website at disasterassistance.gov.   

The post Fulop ADMINISTRATION Announces FEMA Disaster Assessment Teams to Jersey City to Assist Residents Recovering from Ida first appeared on River View Observer.

Renovations Guided by Partnership with Parks Coalition and Local RNA Community Group 

JERSEY CITY – Mayor Steven M. Fulop and the Municipal Council join the Riverview Neighborhood Association (RNA) to announce the full reopening of Riverview-Fisk Park following $2.1 million in much-needed upgrades for the complete renovation of the neighborhood park. Working with the local community to best meet residents†needs, the improvements include a modernized infrastructure, restoration of historic elements, tree canopy preservation and expansion, and additional recreation features for kids of all ages to enjoy the outdoors. 

The post Jersey City Completes $2 million Renovation to Riverview-Fisk Park as part of Citywide Park Improvements first appeared on River View Observer.

In an Effort to Spur Blood Donations after the Summer Lull, the Event Encourages Public Safety Employees, Community Residents and Local Workers to Donate and Help Save Lives  

The City of Jersey City is once again partnering with the American Red Cross and Suburban Propane to host the 3^rd annual Jersey City Police and Fire 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive.  As part of the nationwide partnership with 911Day.org, an organization supporting the nationâ€s largest day of charitable engagement, everyone is invited and encouraged to partake in this special event.  The blood drive is a unique way to commemorate the solemn day while potentially saving a life.  Jersey City played a critical role in the response and recovery efforts on September 11^th, 2001 as the first point of refuge for hundreds of people who evacuated the World Trade Center and lower Manhattan.  The blood drive event places an emphasis on community preparedness and we believe volunteer blood donors will help this endeavor through this partnership.  The blood drive will be operating from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with a ceremony at 11 a.m.

 Monday, September 11, 2017 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Ceremony with Dignitaries at 11:00

Hyatt Regency Jersey City on the Hudson 

2 Exchange Place Jersey City, New Jersey 07302 

Jersey City Mayor Steven M. Fulop

Jersey City Public Safety Director James Shea

American Red Cross Representatives

Jersey City Police & Fire Department Members

Suburban Propane CEO Michael Stivala

Blood & Platelet Donors

911Day.org,

www.cityofjerseycity.com

The post Annual 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive Monday, September 11th, 2017 first appeared on River View Observer.

Several Events Taking Place all this Month to Celebrate Older Americans Month, Ranging from the Upcoming Health & Fitness Day to Farmers†Market Vouchers and Other Programs to Promote Healthy Living in the Golden Years

JERSEY CITY – Mayor Steven M. Fulop and the Department of Health and Human Services are celebrating national Older Americans Month during the month of May.  While several events have been taking place throughout the month, the signature event is National Senior Health & Fitness Day on Wednesday, May 31st from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Berry Lane Park.

“Celebrating our seniors is something we do everyday, but during the month of May we take special occasion to honor and recognize their contributions to our city and our country,” said Mayor Fulop.  “We know that our seniors have made our city what it is today, so we are constantly working to provide them with recreation, healthcare and other services to enrich their golden years and say thank you.”

The Senior Health & Fitness Day event, organized in partnership with Congressman Donald Payneâ€s Office, features a line dancing class at 10:30a.m., Zumba at 11:30a.m., and Yoga/Fitness at 12:30p.m.  There will be wellness vans from both Barnabas Health and CarePoint for various health screenings.  Other vendors include Wellcare, Metropolitan Health, and the Diabetes Foundation.  Contact 201-547-5750 for free group transportation.  Any senior who pre-registers for this event will receive a boxed lunch, free of charge.

This yearâ€s theme, “Age Out Loud,” is designed to give seniors a new voice, one that reflects what seniors have to say.  Seniors are now working longer, and engaging more than ever in their communities.  They are taking charge, striving for wellness and advocating for others.  In Jersey City we try to honor our seniors all year long with new programs to keep active and enjoy the golden years. 

Earlier this month a Motherâ€s Day Brunch was held on Saturday, May 20th at both of the City senior centers – Joseph Connors in the Heights and the Maureen Collier Senior Center.  The event included music, dancing, food and each senior also received a bag full of giveaways.

Beginning this month, HHS is accepting applications (while supplies last) for Seniorâ€s Farmers†Market vouchers. Eligible seniors will receive five $5 vouchers worth $25 to purchase locally grown fruits and vegetables at any of Jersey Cityâ€s farmers†markets.

The Fulop administration has made its focus on seniors a priority implementing such programs as the JC Shovels program – a free volunteer shoveling program in the winter, free dance, yoga and spin classes, an annual beach outing to Belmar, and more.  All year round, hundreds of Jersey City seniors participate in wellness programs, monthly free movies, shopping trips, and other activities that engage them with their community.

For more information, please call the Division of Senior Affairs at (201)547-5750 or email at ecclestonj@jcnj.org.

The post Jersey City Department of Health and Human Services to Host National Senior Health & Fitness Day Wednesday, May 31st first appeared on River View Observer.

Citywide Cleanup Mobilizes Hundreds of Volunteers to Remove Litter and Garbage from Neighborhoods and Parks as part of Earth Day Activities

 Mayor Steven M. Fulop announced today that Jersey Cityâ€s Department of Public Works in partnership with Keep Jersey City Beautiful, will host a second annual citywide clean up – the Great Jersey City Clean Up. The Great Jersey City Clean Up will be held at locations citywide from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 29th, 2017.

Jersey City is the first Keep America Beautiful (KAB) affiliate in the State of New Jersey and last year held a citywide clean up in which over 1,000 volunteers removed 14 tons of litter, one ton of e-waste and 780 pounds of recyclables. KAB is the Nationâ€s longest running non-profit devoted to litter reduction, increasing recycling and greening initiatives, and neighborhood beautification through civic engagement, volunteerism and building partnerships between the public and private sectors.

“Ever since we took office four years ago, we have been committed to creating a cleaner city and better quality of life for all of our residents,” said Mayor Fulop. “As we saw with our Stop the Drop program, which employs hundreds of Jersey City youth to beautify our neighborhoods each summer, the Great Jersey City Cleanup is an opportunity for residents to get engaged and actively improve their neighborhood.”

The second annual Great Jersey City Cleanup will be held as part of the cityâ€s Earth Day activities with the hope to mobilize residents, civic organizations, community leaders and elected officials to roll up their sleeves and help clean Jersey City on a single day

The Great Jersey City Clean Up is part of the Great American Clean Up, a nationwide effort that will take place in 20,000 communities and engages over 4 million volunteers across the country. The initiative is spearheaded locally by the Department of Public Works and Keep Jersey City Beautiful, the local affiliate of the national nonprofit Keep America Beautiful.

Volunteer Tent Location for the Clean Up:

• Ward A: Colombia Park

• Ward B: Lincoln Park: Belmont and Westside Ave

• Ward C: Dickinson High School

• Ward D: Leonard Gordon Park

• Ward E: Mary Benson

• Ward F: Barry Lane Tents will have breakfast for volunteers, giveaways and info on City agencies

Tents will have breakfast for volunteers, giveaways and info on City agencies

A pre-event planning meeting for Clean Up Team Captains will be held from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, April 1, 2017 at the Mary McLeod Bethune Center, 140 MLK Drive.

During the meeting, team captains and volunteers will discuss clean up logistics and event details.

To register as an individual or organization please visit the Serve JC website: https://volunteer.jerseycitynj.gov/opportunities/4556. Email us at KJCB@JCNJ.Org.

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 JERSEY CITY – Mayor Steven M. Fulop today swore in 25 new Jersey City police officers, bringing the size of the department to 922 officers – its largest size in two decades – as the administration continues to grow the force and enhance public safety, while also diversifying the department.

“We have made rebuilding the police department a priority since day one, and while there is still more work to do, we are proud of this new class of officers and on where we are today with our police department,” said Mayor Fulop. “We will continue to build the department and with each new class we hire, we will be able to increase foot patrols with officers interacting directly with members of the community, enhancing public safety and strengthening community relations.”

Since taking office in July of 2013, Mayor Fulop has hired more than 250 new police officers, including todayâ€s class.  An additional class of 26 officers is also in the police academy expected to graduate this summer.  Mayor Fulop has also pledged to add two more classes of recruits this year for a total of 50 new officers to be hired by the department; the goal is for a department with over 950 officers.

When Mayor Fulop took office, there were 779 officers in the department and utilizing grant and capital funds, the administration has hired several new classes of officers with plans for continued expansion. Since last spring, the new officers joining the force have been assigned to foot patrols, primarily in the South and West Districts.  Todayâ€s class of officers will also be deployed to foot patrol as they start their careers to enhance visibility and expand community policing.

 â€œToday is a proud day for these men and women as they take the oath of office to protect and serve their community,” said Public Safety Director James Shea.  “We are proud of them and what they have achieved, and while it is a great accomplishment to have a growing department that reflects the community, the true achievement will be when these men and women are on patrol, building relationships with the community and helping others each and every day.”

The Fulop administration has also made diversity recruitment a focus, establishing the cityâ€s first recruitment center at the HUB and dedicating two officers to work with the community on outreach.  As a result, of the new officers hired since 2013, nearly 70 percent have been minorities, including todayâ€s class, which includes 16 Hispanic officers, two African-American officers and one Asian-American officer.

Languages spoken within the JCPD include Spanish, Italian, Greek, Arabic, Urdu, Creole, Polish, Swahili, Bengali and Vietnamese.

The post Mayor Fulop Swears in 25 New Police Officers, As the Administration Continues to Grow and Diversify the Department first appeared on River View Observer.

Taking Place on Friday, March 3, 2017

A City-Wide, All-Day Celebration of Art & Culture in Jersey City

 Spring is coming, and Art Houseâ€s JC Fridays will kick off the season with 39 exciting visual and performing arts events! Come out and celebrate with this city-wide festival on Friday, March 3, 2017. Restaurants, galleries, stores, and event spaces throughout Jersey City will showcase a variety of art-related happenings including visual exhibitions, live music, performance acts, educational demonstrations, and more. All events are free and open to the public. As one of the preeminent art scenes in the tri-state area, Jersey City is abound with artists of all types, musicians, and individuals with unique talent; JC Fridays is one of the best times for them to share their newest projects and works. Held quarterly, thousands of residents pour out to experience these artists†latest works and to revel in the joy art brings to the community.

Some highlights include (a complete list of events follows):

• FILM/VIDEO— “Today!” presented by The Jersey Art Exchange This is earthquake weather! Honor and Hunger Walk Lean Together… Protectors and nourishers of intellectual freedom and humanity, will showcase work that consider the fears and aspirations of marginalized communities, offering the means for forming alliances against emergent forces, and providing a venue for making invisible struggles visible. Located at 114 Monticello Ave.

• EDUCATIONAL— “Urbanity Thru the Lens.” PRIME REAL ESTATEâ€s first art-exhibition will be a photography-based group show that pays homage to the banalities of everyday city living. Featuring LeDor, Catalina Aranguren, Marc Fusco, Timothy David Lang, Mykal, Samuel Orrego, and Luke Walter. The opening reception will include a live acoustic performance by Rob Jennings. Located at 351 Palisade Ave.

• PERFORMANCE— “UNVEILING LIBERTY.” Join Speranza for UNVEILING LIBERTY plus a talkback. Step back in time to 1886 and learn about the state of women’s rights at the time of the birth of an iconic landmark – how does the public feel about our lady of the harbor? For kids ages 9 to 99. Located at The Barrow Mansion, 83 Wayne St.

• ART— “Reels, Jigs & Shenanigans!” Join us for a night of everyone’s favorite Irish folk & rock songs Agus the Band Port Authority Pipes and Drums “Escape” Original photography by Dominique C. Smith. Located at Park Tavern, 575 West Side Ave.

JC FRIDAYS LISTINGS

March 3, 2017

Sponsors:

– Destination Jersey City

– The Jersey City Reporter

– Jersey City Magazine

– Mayor Steven M. Fulop, the Jersey City Municipal Council

& Cultural Affairs

– Jersey City Department of Housing, Economic Development, and Commerce

– Historic Downtown SID

– PATH

-JCEDC*

Made possible in part by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, A Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts; administered by the Hudson County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs/Tourism Development, and by the County of Hudson, Thomas A. DeGise, Hudson County Executive, and the Hudson County Board of Chosen Freeholders.

* Supported in part by a grant from New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism

Supporters: M&T Bank, Jersey City Independent, Yelp

Friends: CoolVines, Fox and Crow, Iris Records

Business Specials: 10% off EVERYTHING on Friday March 3rd at Iris Records

Jersey City Independent: Support community news & enjoy discounts at: Art House Productions, Another Man’s Treasure, Delenio, Fussy Friends, GP’s, Hamilton Health and Fitness, Indiegrove, Kanibal and Co and more. Become a JCI Member today! www.jerseycityindependent.com/membership

GREENVILLE

(art)(music) 4pm-7pm PROJECT GREENVILLE presents “The INside Show.” Project Greenville welcomes you INside the 1895 Greenville house we call home and share with the community! Join us in the parlor Friday, Saturday & Sunday for art, photography, live music and light refreshments. Featuring Chris Capaci, Eric Christopher, Lucy Rovetto, Jim Legge, Gene Szucs, Zoraida Velez and more. 128 Winfield Ave (between Ocean/Old Bergen Road), 646-361-1858. Family-friendly. Tactile tour.

MCGINLEY SQUARE

(art)(film/video)(music) 6pm-11pm THE JERSEY ART EXCHANGE presents “Today!” This is earthquake weather! Honor and Hunger Walk Lean Together… Protectors and nourishers of intellectual freedom and humanity, will showcase work that consider the fears and aspirations of marginalized communities, offering the means for forming alliances against emergent forces, and providing a venue for making invisible struggles visible. 114 Monticello Ave (Brinkerhoff / Emory), 201-221-2300. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

(music) 7:30pm-9pm ST. PAUL’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH presents “Carol and Company: Jazz at St. Paul’s.” The brilliant trumpeter Carol Morgan, along with her friends, Robert Boston, Jon Roche, and Andrew Sneed, will offer an evening of jazz in our beautiful and historic 19th Century church. All are welcome! 38 Duncan Ave (Bergen / Kennedy Blvd), 201-433-4922. Family-friendly.

JOURNAL SQUARE

(art)(educational) 3pm-7pm EILEEN S. KAMINSKY FAMILY FOUNDATION presents “Winter 2017 Residency Closing Reception.” The Eileen S. Kaminsky Family Foundation presents their Winter 2017 Residency Closing Reception. Join ESKFF in celebrating works created during the winter residency. Meet the artists and learn about their process! Winter 2017 Residents: Fred Fleisher, Nava Gidanian-Kagan, Walter Rodriguez, Laura Karetzky, Sandra DeSando, Andre Russell, and Sam Seawright. 888 Newark Ave Suite 218 (Newark / Senate Pl), 973-703-3779. Barrier-free. Family-friendly. Tactile tour.

(art) 4pm-7pm HUDSON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE presents “Quantum Overdrive Artist Reception.” Quantum Overdrive! Curated by Fred Fleisher. Exhibiting artists include Jude Broughham, Marguerite Day, Ketta Ioannidou, Joanne Leah, Tricia McLaughlin, Helen O’Leary, Rachel Phillips, Laurie Riccadonna, Addie Russell, Savannah Spirit, and Woolpunk. Benjamin J. Dineen III and Dennis C. Hull Gallery, Hudson County Community College 71 Sip Ave 6th Floor (Enos Pl / Jones), 201-360-4176. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

(art) 6pm-9pm 58 GALLERY ANNEX presents “Group Show.” The 58 Gallery Annex presents a group show of classic and contemporary works at the Upstairs Art Gallery. 896 Bergen Ave (Academy / Vroom), 201-616-6255. Family-friendly. Tactile tour.

THE HEIGHTS

(art) 3pm-10pm MICHAEL BITTEL presents “S.P.A.C.E. x Rack the Crown.” I will be showcasing framed photography prints of my expository photography project about sustainability, peace, art, culture and equality. Prints will be available on wood, canvas, and archival photo papers. Also, Anthony of Rack the Crown will be displaying some of his original works. Michael Bittel 481 Central Ave (Congress / Graham), 347-571-3469. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

(art) 4:30pm-8:30pm THE LUCKY HONEYBEE STUDIOS presents “Small Works by Mercadoodles & The HoneyBee.” The Lucky HoneyBee Studio will showcase Small Works by 2 Jersey City artists. Illustrator & Book Designer Maria Mercado will display her whimsical acrylic paintings. Melissa Buesing, a graduate from the photography program at New Jersey City University, will showcase select images from her recent “Transfers” project. The Musicians Building 130 Central Ave Studio #2d 2nd Floor (Prospect / Waverly), 201-206-8289. Family-friendly.

(music) 5pm-2am FOX & CROW presents “Live in the Parlour.” A pub & parlor in Jersey City Heights. Live music in the Parlour every Friday & Saturday 10 – midnight.  Craft Beer | Cocktails | Burgers | Kitchen open til midnight. 594 Palisade Ave (Congress / Hobson), 201-984-2775-. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

(art)(film/video)(performance)(music)(educational) 6pm-8pm PRIME REAL ESTATE GROUP presents “Urbanity Thru the Lens.” PRIMEâ€s first art-exhibition will be a photography-based group show that pays homage to the banalities of everyday city living. Featuring LeDor, Catalina Aranguren, Marc Fusco, Timothy David Lang, Mykal, Samuel Orrego, and Luke Walter. The opening reception will include a live acoustic performance by Rob Jennings. 351 Palisade Ave (Franklin / Ferry), 201-792-4300. Barrier-free. Family-friendly. Tactile tour.

(art) 6pm-10pm 130 CENTRAL ARTS presents “Open Studios.” Come meet the artists of 130 Central Arts. A Collective of creatives and artists of various disciplines and media. 130 Central Ave (Waverly / Prospect), 551-580-9733. Family-friendly.

(art) 6pm-11:45pm GALICIAN STAINED GLASS presents “Stained Glass Garden.” Great ideas begin here. Visit and explore our stained-glass art studio. Have you always wondered what it would be like to take a stained-glass class? Feel free to ask about classes. 195 New York Ave 3rd Floor (Hutton /Frankin), 347-839-8934. Family-friendly.

(performance)(music) 7pm-9:30pm MARGO AND WALTER PARKS presents “The Statuary Presents.” Enjoy an art exhibit and live classical, world and jazz music in a former 100-year-old statue factory. Weather permitting, relax outside amidst the light show in the conversation garden. 53 Congress St (Webster / New York Ave), 917-586-3957.

GROVE STREET (ON AND AROUND)

(art) 9am-9pm JC CULTURAL AFFAIRS presents “Women’s History Month Group Exhibition.” Group exhibition of emerging and established artists celebrating Women’s History Month. City Hall Rotunda Gallery 280 Grove St 2nd Floor (Montgomery / Mercer), 201-547-4333. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

(art)(educational) 3pm-5pm HAZEL BABY & KIDS presents “Tiny Artists.” Hazel Baby & Kids invites accompanied children between the ages of 3 and 5 to create collage style art in the Spring installment of our “Tiny Artists” workshop. The pieces will be displayed in our window for evening JCFridays viewing. Hazel Baby & Kids 199 Montgomery St (Montgomery / Grove), 201-369-1999. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

(art) 6pm-9pm COOLVINES presents “An Evening with JC Artist Robert Piersanti.” CoolVines is proud and excited to feature local visual artist Robert Piersanti and his work at our weekly Friday wine tasting. Robert will feature some of his celebrated work, and be available for questions and conversation. Please stop by to enjoy an evening of food, wine, art, and community. 276 Grove St (Montgomery / York), 201-448-8657. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

(art) 6pm-9pm JCITY REALTY presents “The Art Project.” Featuring paintings by Anne Trauben, Diane Tenerelli, June and James Pustorino. Sales benefit under-served teenagers†arts courses at Bethune Center, JC. 109 Columbus Ave (Grove / Barrow), 201-714-7777. Barrier-free. Family-friendly. Tactile tour.

(art)(performance)(music) 6pm-12am JC STUDIOS presents “143 is Alive!” Our 6th Annual party celebrating all the musicians and artists that come through our studio doors in downtown Jersey City. With music by The Yeti Shivers, The Furies, & Swamp. Visual art on display by Sam Pullin. 143 Christopher Columbus Dr 1st Fl (Barrow / Grove), 201-435-1024. Family-friendly.

THE VILLAGE

(art) 6pm-9pm JERSEY CITY THEATER CENTER presents “Borderless.” Open Artist Studios and BORDERLESS Group Exhibition: With increased communications, technology, travel and trade, planet earth seems smaller every day. But why is nationalism rising globally at the same time our everyday lives have become more international? What are the public and personal consequences of 21st-century globalization? 339 Newark Ave Upstairs from Monaco Lock (Merseles / 5th), 201-795-5386. Family-friendly. Tactile tour.

(art) 7pm-9pm GIA GELATO presents ““Yaatra” – A Journey.” Jersey City artist Susan Isaac presents her recent works in acrylics and ink.  â€œInspired by Indian and Middle Eastern art and culture, Yaatra is a journey to the places that have influenced me on the path of artistic exploration.” 281 Newark Ave (Brunswick / 3rd), 201-216-0555. Family-friendly.

(art) 7pm-10pm THE RAVEN GALLERY & BOUTIQUE presents “The Raven Turns 3!” Join us in celebrating The Raven Gallery & Boutique’s 3rd Birthday! This is a sneak peek for the big party that will be held on the following evening.  As always, our anniversary show exhibits all the artists that have shown with us this past year. That’s a lot of art!! 304 Newark Ave (Brunswick / 3rd), 201-565-3046. Family-friendly. Tactile tour.

(performance)(music) 8pm-10pm IRIS RECORDS presents “Tom Barrett Unplugged…Again.” Overlake’s prolific frontman returns to Iris Records with another surprise set of indie rock vignettes. On guitar? On keyboards? A combo? We’ll see (With a very interesting unnamed warm-up artist!). Iris Records 114 Brunswick St (1st / 2nd), 201-222-9515.

NEWARK AVENUE (ON OR AROUND)

(art) 5pm-8pm LUCA CUSOLITO & KELLY HEATON presents “Salt x Sea Trunk Show.” 373 4th Street (4th / Newark), 347-450-5822. Family-friendly.

(art) 5pm-9pm JACQUELINE MELECIO presents “Here & There.” Jacqueline Melecio is a photographer who was conceived in Mexico & fostered in New Jersey. 2011 she immersed herself in the NYC art scene. Capturing the rawness, mystery, & simple life is what fulfills her. Between Here & There she is figuring out who & what her purpose is. 9 Erie St (Bay / First), 201-332-2806. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

(art) 5pm-1am LITM presents “Love Letters.” Whether through words, objects, or imagery, lovers throughout the centuries have found myriad creative ways to communicate their interest to the subjects of their desire. 25 local artists present their interpretations of Love Letters. Curated by Andrea Artemis Morin. 140 Newark Ave (Grove / Erie), 201-536-5557. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

(art) 6pm-8pm EILEEN FERARA presents “Invasion.” Invasion is a print-stallation project by Eileen Ferara at _gaia studio gallery. The work is a reflection on the fragility of balance in the environment and our relationship to the places we inhabit. Stop by and meet the artist at the opening. Refreshments will be served. _gaia Studio 315 3rd St (Monmouth / Coles), 201-589-0470. Family-friendly. Tactile tour.

(art) 6pm-9pm QAASIM MUÑOZ presents “The Essence of the Soul.” Qaasim’s Love and fascination for people allows him to see the beauty and each spiritual being.  His art reflects the depth of their character in soulful works that reveal their essence. The art of Qaasim Muñoz is the vibrant expression of the divine inner self. Tea NJ 262 Newark Ave (Monmouth / 2nd), 201-222-7757. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

(art) 6pm-10pm THE DOCK presents “Bigger Than the Both of Us.” Abstract works by Gianluca Bianchino and figurative works by Norman Kirby will be on view plus performances by special musical guests. 373 4th Street (4th / Newark), 347-450-5822. Family-friendly.

(music) 9:30pm-2:30am ROCK-IT DOCKET AND RAVAL presents “Beneath the City: A Music Underground.” A Music Underground. Dancing Tony and special guests throw a public party in the Privado Basement of Raval. Expect a mixed bagged music and Ladies Night specials. Raval 136 Newark Ave (Grove / Erie), 201-209-1099. Barrier-free.

HAMILTON PARK (ON OR AROUND)

(art) 6pm-8pm HAMILTON HOUSE presents “The Art Project.” Take a tour of five floors of art and two beautiful lobbies with the curators: Project sales benefit underserved teenaged arts courses at Bethune Center. Works by Aaron Dunkel, Jeanne Tremel, Eliot Markell, Geoffrey Sokol, JoanMarie Palmer, J Carpenter, Maurizio Zulanga, and James Pustorino. 255 Brunswick St (9th / 10th), 201-798-0928. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

(art) 6pm-8pm SILVERMAN AND THE MAJESTIC THEATRE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION presents “Refracted Reality: Paintings by Michael Steinbrick.” Contemporary artist Michael Steinbrick offers new photorealist paintings of the Greater New York City environs. Curated by Enrico Gomez. 222 Montgomery St (Grove /Montgomery), 201-435-8000. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

(art) 6pm-8pm SILVERMAN AND THE HAMILTON SQUARE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION presents “Shared Gaze, Uncommon Vision: Paintings by Jeanne Tremel & Eliot Markell.” Contemporary artist Michael Steinbrick offers new photorealist paintings of the Greater New York City environs. Curated by Enrico Gomez. 232 Pavonia Ave (Pavonia / Erie), 201-435-8000. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

VAN VORST PARK (ON OR AROUND)

(performance)(educational) 7pm-8:30pm SPERANZA THEATRE COMPANY presents “UNVEILING LIBERTY.” Join Speranza for UNVEILING LIBERTY plus a talkback. Step back in time to 1886 and learn about the state of women’s rights at the time of the birth of an iconic landmark – how does the public feel about our lady of the harbor? For kids ages 9  to 99. The Barrow Mansion – 83 Wayne St (Jersey / Barrow), 201-503-6194. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

EXCHANGE PLACE

(performance)(music) 12pm-1:30pm NJCU CENTER FOR THE ARTS presents “Music at Harborside.” A free lunchtime concert by New Jersey City University’s musical theatre program, featuring selections from their upcoming production of the Broadway musical “Side Show,” plus songs paying tribute to the extraordinary artists we lost in 2016, including Natalie Cole, Prince, George Michael, and Leonard Cohen. Harborside Atrium 147 Harborside Financial Center Platform 07311 (Hudson), 732-590-1010. Barrier-free. Family-friendly. Tactile tour.

(art) 12pm-7pm NOVADO GALLERY, LLC presents “Identity.” “IDENTITY” through March 9, 2017. The show focuses on the use of art as a vehicle to investigate ideas of perception of self and other, human nature’s tendency for judgement and categorization, and how life experiences work to form our contemporary selves. A portion of sales will support WomenRising Inc! Novado Gallery 110 Morgan St (Modera Lofts Building) (Warren / Washington), 201-744-6713. Barrier-free.

(art) 6pm-8pm THE OAKMAN presents “The Art Project.” Art Project sales benefit underserved teenagers†arts courses at Bethune Center. Tour 14 floors of art: Bruce Halpin, Alyce Gottesman, Deirdre Kennedy, Hijo Nam, Greg Letson, Greg Brickey, Claire McConaughy, Elizabeth Onorato, Emily Berger, Russel Christian, Sara Wolfe, Michael Ensminger, Pauline Chernichaw. 160 First St (Marin / Provost), 201-798-0928. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

(art) 6pm-8pm THE ART HOUSE/SHUSTER MANAGEMENT presents “The Art Project.” The Art Project sales benefit underserved teenagers†arts courses at Bethune Center. Tour 12 floors of art: Candy Le Sueur, Bruce Halpin, Harriet Finck, Beatrice Mady, Eliot Markell, Mona Brody, William Stamos, Alyce Gottesman, Robert Koch and more. Curated by James Pustorino. 148 First St (Marin / Provost), 201-798-0928. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

WEST SIDE

(art) 4:30pm-7pm NEW JERSEY CITY UNIVERSITY presents “Cosplay Contest.” In conjunction with the Manga & War Exhibition, NJCU’s Visual Arts Gallery celebrates the Japanese subculture of “cosplay” (costume play) by inviting members of the community to dress up in costumes of their favorite Japanese manga/anime/game characters. Prizes for the three best cosplay-ers! Visual Arts Gallery Visual Arts Building Basement 100 Culver Ave (Culver / West View CT), 201-200-2496. Barrier-free. Family-friendly. Tactile tour.

(art)(music) 8pm-12am A WEST SIDE STORY AND PARK TAVERN presents “Reels, Jigs & Shenanigans!” Join us for a night of everyone’s favorite Irish folk & rock songs Agus the Band Port Authority Pipes and Drums “Escape” Original photography by Dominique C. Smith. Park Tavern 575 West Side Ave (Roosevelt / Communipaw), 201-434-9253. Barrier-free. Tactile tour.

Art House Productions, a Jersey City-based performing and visual arts nonprofit, presents JC Fridays. JC Fridays is a quarterly event, held four times a year at the start of every season: March, June, September, December. The next JC Fridays will be held on Friday, June 2, 2017

Please consider donating to this festival or volunteering in support of the arts in Jersey City! For more information, contact info@arthouseproductions.org

The post JC FRIDAYS CELEBRATES THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH A FULL LINEUP OF ARTS EVENTS TAKING PLACE ACROSS JERSEY CITY first appeared on River View Observer.