have you had your dojo mojo today?

I {HEART} JC, PART DEUX

2006-10-02T02:26:00.000-04:00

Add this to the list of things I love about Jersey City.

Jersey City skyline

2006-09-27T15:12:00.000-04:00

Jersey City skyline
Originally uploaded by BobbyCor.

This is such a remarkable HDR from BobbyCor. I could almost hear the choir singing that high C note.

YOU BET YOUR @SS I HAVE IT!

2006-09-27T03:19:00.001-04:00

My ticket to this Friday's show, that is! Now the question is: do you have yours?

Yo La Tengo
Friday, September 29
7:00 PM
Loews Jersey
Journal Square
Jersey City

BRIDGE AND TUNNEL PUMMEL GRRRLS

2006-08-10T22:55:00.000-04:00

LOVE. IS. THE. MESSAGE

2006-08-05T18:10:00.000-04:00

BERGEN ARCHES

2006-07-23T23:20:00.000-04:00

The Bergen Arches (Erie Cut)
Originally uploaded by David Pfeffer.

David Pfeffer and friend recently checked out the Bergen Arches, something I don't think I'll ever have the guts to do in my lifetime.

JC BLOGOSPHERE

2006-07-23T14:08:00.000-04:00

Sunday link love:

Justiceiro has a new Stoop
CityBelt is a new independent, progressive (and somewhat JC-centric) newsmagazine covering North Jersey
Genius Lessons ponders the uses of avocadoes
The bugs have gone underground
The Captyn has spoken. Now it's your turn
Did you know that there is a party in LSP every Tuesday and Sunday night? [via JCVibe]
Hudson Restaurant Week starts tomorrow!

LIKE A VILLAIN

2006-07-22T10:21:00.000-04:00

We ain't called Chilltown for no reason, foo!

TONIGHT

2006-07-21T17:23:00.000-04:00

http://www.gracevanvorst.org
http://www.americanwatercolormovement.com

I ALWAYS FEEL LIKE SOMEBODY'S WATCHING ME

2006-07-10T11:49:00.000-04:00

Does JC have a new police chief?
Are the Guardian Angels still patrolling in JC?
Were there muggings in Hamilton Park?
Is there a pedophile in our midst?
Did JC parks commission new artwork in HP and VVP?

For answers to these and other questions, join your neighbors at the Downtown Jersey City Watch meeting tonight:

Grace Van Vorst Church Sanctuary
39 Erie Street, entrance at 2nd St
Monday, July 10
7:00 PM
Meetings are held every second Monday of the month
Join the mailing list by sending an email to
downtownjcwatch@gmail.com

Shangri-La at fifty8

2006-07-03T16:17:00.000-04:00

303s at 58 Coles
Originally uploaded by dogseat.

I didn't make it to to Shangri-La this weekend, but dogseat did. And he's got some nifty pictures to prove it.

http://myspace.com/58coles
http://www.fifty8.com

FLAMENCO, ROCK, SPOKEN WORD AND BRAHMA, OH MY!

2006-07-01T10:07:00.000-04:00

Sure, the world's greatest city is a mere 10-minute PATH train ride away, but since there's never a shortage of things to do right here in JC, we often choose to hang out locally over going to the city. Not always, but often enough. Having the option of staying local is one of the things I love about my hometown.

We started Friday night off with dinner at Downtown Taqueria, our favorite Mexican restaurant, then headed over to Bar Majestic, where we had front row seats for the Flamenco Night, then topped off with live bands, spoken word, and free Brahma at Arthouse Production's Summer Blowout at Victory Hall. Good times.

OLE!

AMERICAN ALTITUDE

ARTHOUSE PRODUCTIONS' CHRISTINE & JACK

REGGIE GAINES

ROADSIDE GRAVES

RG'S KEYBOARDIST

CHRISTINE GOODMAN,
HOSTESS & PIXIE EXTRAORDINAIRE

Downtown Taqueria
236 Grove Street

Bar Majestic
275 Grove Street
Across from City Hall
http://barmajestic.com

Arthouse Productions
http://arthouseproductions.org

ROCKING OUT IN JC

2006-06-30T00:03:00.000-04:00

Looking for something to do this weekend? Read Tris' latest Breaking the Silence column on JCVibe.

[via JerseyCityVibe]

LIBERTY JAM

2006-06-29T23:33:00.000-04:00

More, and infinitely better, photos on JCList [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8] and Flickr ["liberty jam" tag]

JC MAYOR HEALY ARRESTED IN BRADLEY BEACH

2006-06-18T22:35:00.000-04:00

News of Mayor Healy's arrest is everywhere. The spin doctors are hard at work, but given the state of NJ politics, I don't think this would hurt old J's career one bit. Heck, I wouldn't be surprised if he eventually becomes Governor ~~in spite of~~ because of this.

Let the one-liners rip!

DOJO MOJO MEETS DOWNTOWN PIMP

2006-06-08T21:51:00.000-04:00

I met him tonight.

Pimped out his sky-blue-and-white ensemble and gliding over Grove Street, it was hard not to notice him. As he neared me, I started to pull out my camera-phone and readied it to take a photo, then figured I may as well ask his permission and introduce myself.

DoJo Mojo: Hi!
Downtown Pimp: Hey.
DJM: Would you mind if I took a photo of you?
DP: Why does everyone want to take a photo of me [proceeds to rest his sky-blue umbrella against the pole and begins to pose]
DJM: Cause you always look sharp, you always look good!
DP: Well, you look goooood, girl.
DJM: Err, ok. By the way, my name is [...]. [Extending hand]
DP: I'm [...] [Shakes my hand] You live 'round here, baby?
DJM: Yeah, a coupla blocks away. And I always see you around, looking sharp. By the way, did you know that there's a website for Jersey City and you've got quite a following there. A bunch of people are talking about you. You're a celebrity!
DP: Oh yeah?
DJM: Uh-huh. OK, ready? One .. two ... snap. Thanks so much!
DP: Well, you take care. Stay true to yourself. And keep on lookin' gooood.
DJM: Errr, alright. Nice meeting you!
DP: Bye, baby.

BIG PIMPIN' IN DJC.

Damn. I wish I had a real camera with me.

EDIT: Here are few other photos of the downtown pimp so you can fully appreciate the magnitude of his pimphood:

PHOTO BY TYSON THORNE

[via JCList]

JUNE IN JC

2006-06-01T21:58:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY, 06/02

JCFridays
A day of free arts events in Jersey City...
JC Fridays, the citywide day of arts and culture in Jersey City, is held at the start of every season with an exciting program of free events open to the public. The series was launched in Spring 2005 by a group of Jersey City artists and arts organizations to better promote the arts in the city. Since its inception, the number of participants has doubled through increasing outreach to Jersey City's neighborhoods, organizations, businesses and artists.
http://jcfridays.com

Summertime Flix at Loew's: American Graffiti
8:00 PM
Admission for each screening is $6 for adults and $4 for seniors and children aged 12 and under.
Combo discounts for two or more screenings are available.
Loew's Jersey
54 Journal Square, JC
http://www.loewsjersey.org

SATURDAY, 06/03

JUNE-A-PALOOZA!
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Benefit for the Learning Community
Live Music, Local Artisans
The Learning Community Charter School will kick off its first annual June-A-Palooza!, a day of family fun to be held in front of the school, at the intersection of Grove and Grand Streets in downtown Jersey City. Proceeds from the fair will benefit various programs at LCCS. The festival’s rain date is Sunday, June 4.
For more information about June-A-Palooza! contact Charlotte Kreutz, LCCS Director of Special Projects at (201)332-0900 X 303. [Charlotte-Kreutz@lccsnj.org]

Summertime Flix at Loew's: Grease
3:00 PM
Admission for each screening is $6 for adults and $4 for seniors and children aged 12 and under.
Combo discounts for two or more screenings are available.
Loew's Jersey
54 Journal Square
http://www.loewsjersey.org

Opening Reception: New Pop Art Paintings
7:00 PM
Robert Piersanti
Mermaid A-GoGo
LITM
140 Newark Ave
http://litm.com

Summertime Flix at Loew's: Jaws
7:30 PM
Admission for each screening is $6 for adults and $4 for seniors and children aged 12 and under.
Combo discounts for two or more screenings are available.
Loew's Jersey
54 Journal Square, JC
http://www.loewsjersey.org

WEDNESDAYS, STARTING 06/07

Films in Van Vorst will be happening again this summer. Join us at the park every second Wednesday at 8pm beginning June 7th.
Make sure to bring a chair, a blanket can sometimes come in handy!
The schedule for the Summer 2006 series is as follows:
June 7- Raising Arizona, Ethan & Joel Coen (1987) (view trailer)
June 21- Babe: The Gallant Pig, Chris Noonan (1995) (view trailer)
July 5- Manhattan Murder Mystery, Woody Allen (1993) (view trailer)
July 19- Nine Queens, Fabián Bielinski (2000) (view trailer)
Aug 2- Bottle Rocket, Wes Anderson (1996) (view trailer)
Aug 16- Some Like It Hot, Billy Wilder (1959) (view trailer)
Aug 30- Big Fish, Tim Burton (2003) (view trailer)
Sept 13- Spellbound, Jeffrey Blitz (2002) (view trailer)
In case of rain please make sure to check this website for an alternative date.
http://filmsinvanvorst.wordpress.com/

SATURDAY, 06/10

WALK for Liberty State Park 2006
The Friends of Liberty State Park is holding the scenic 3 mile roundtrip WALK for LSP 2006, on the waterfront Liberty Walk promenade, starting at the CRRNJ Terminal at the end of the cobblestone road, Zapp Drive, at LSP's NE corner.The WALK will celebrate LSP's 30th birthday and aims to raise funds for LSP beautification projects.
http://www.folsp.org/walk.htm
Sam Pesin
president of The Friends of Liberty State Park
The Friends of Liberty State Park
http://www.folsp.org
P.O. Box 3407
Jersey City, NJ 07302
pesinliberty@earthlink.net

Powerhouse Sunset Block Party
5:00 - 10:00 PM
125 First Street (between Provost & Warren)
The Rivington Project featuring George Coleman, Jr
DJ Oliver, resident DJ at the Standard hotel in downtown A
The Plush Interior Jazz Funk Trio
Ken Broware Photograph - Images of the Mekong River
Peter Mann Installation - Human Modern Objects for Life
After-Party at LITM

SATURDAY, 06/17

Afro-Puerto Rican Rhythms Bomba Dance and Bomba Drum Workshop Series Recital
1:00 - 3:00 PM
A finale performance by the participants in the 16-week Bomba Dance and Bomba Drum workshops presented by Segunda Quimbamba. Free
Jersey City Museum
350 Montgomery Street
http://www.jerseycitymuseum.org

SATURDAY - SUNDAY, 06/24 - 06/25

Liberty Jam
Come See George Clinton & Parliament Funkaledic, Cheap Trick, Los Lobos, The Fab Faux, Patti Smith, The Smithereens, John Eddie, Exit 105
Don’t miss this historic music event celebrating Liberty State Park’s 30th birthday
Liberty Event Management , in conjunction with Liberty State Park, The Friends of Liberty State Park, and The New Jersey Music Hall of Fame, proudly presents the first annual LibertyJAM, a music festival being held in beautiful Liberty State Park on the waterfront of Jersey City on June 25th. Liberty Event Management has assembled an amazing line-up of musical talent to help celebrate the 30th birthday of Liberty State Park. The festival will raise funds to improve Liberty State Park and bring meaningful attention to New Jersey’s beloved urban waterfront state park. The Friends of Liberty State Park are hoping to fund tree plantings and other major developments in the Park, such as a picnic pavilion.
Tickets for LibertyJAM 2006 will be sold through Ticketmaster and are priced at two levels. Advanced tickets will sell @ $100 for VIP and $42.50 for Lawn – General Admission. Day of tickets will sell @ $125 for VIP and $50 for Lawn – General Admission.
http://libertyjam.net
http://www.folsp.org

IT'S BACK!

2006-06-01T21:43:00.000-04:00

LOOKING WESTWARD

2006-05-31T20:29:00.000-04:00

AT features a DoJo makeover, and JCVibe noticed that NYC is finally noticing JC!

THE IMMIGRATION DEBATE

2006-05-25T23:55:00.000-04:00

Justiceiro took some time off from his crime-fighting chores to give his two cents on the current hot-button issue:

A great deal has been in the news lately about immigration. Apparently, Middle America woke up a few weeks ago and noticed a great many Mexicans had popped up unexpectedly in their midst. [.....] Notice that I say Mexicans and not immigrants. On Fox News and NPR you will hear the word immigrant bandied about, but this is, in actuality, a code.

Read the rest of his piece here.

CEVICHE'S

2006-05-25T21:55:00.000-04:00

We ventured out of the downtown area tonight and headed uphill to Ceviche's, a Peruvian restaurants in the Heights, and definitely one of Jersey City's best-kept secrets.

What a gem this place is! The service was great, the interior beautiful, and the food amazing. The only thing I regretted tonight was not inviting our friends to dinner with us.

We skipped the appetizers and ordered the Parrillado de Argentina ($30), the grilled meat platter consisting of chorizo, beef, pork chops and chicken, and the Ceviche Mixto ($16), a surprisingly generous dish of mixed seafood ceviche consisting of octopus, fish, shrimp, mussels with sides of baked potato, baked yellow squash, and cancha chulpe, the gigantic deep-fried Peruvian corn similar to corn nuts, but infinitely better.

I would post photos of our dishes here, but upon serving our entrees, our server apologetically informed me that the owners did not allow photography (this after I took about 4 photos of the interior and exterior). I normally would bitch and moan about ridiculous rules such as this, but our server was so nice about it, that I quietly put my camera away and commenced with our little feast. All of you out there in internet-land will have to visit Ceviche's to see [and taste] the food for yourselves.

Next time, I am definitely bringing 20 of our closest friends. Although ours was only one of two tables occupied tonight, I have a feeling this won't be much of a secret for much longer. At least, I hope not.

Ceviche's
A Seafood Restaurant with a Taste of South America
456 Central Ave.
Jersey City, NJ
(201) 420-0101

ONE WEEK

2006-05-24T18:02:00.000-04:00

BBC is filming a new reality series due out this August called One Week, and guess where they're shooting? Yup, right here in DoJo.

I was curious to learn about the new series, so I googled it and found this. Oh Lordy. I guess it's better than those COPS episodes filmed here in JC.

CINCO DE MAYO, JC-STYLE

2006-05-04T16:13:00.000-04:00

NO MORE TAX ABATEMENTS FOR NEWPORT!

2006-04-25T04:49:00.000-04:00

From JCList Webmaster and fellow concerned JC resident, Dan Falcon:

This Wednesday the Jersey City council will vote on 2 tax abatements, a 20 year for a new Newport residential building and a 30 year for the American Can building that is being converted into apartments. Most of you are against tax abatements for luxury apartments, so am I.

Our councilman Steve Fulop indicated to me that he will vote against these 2 abatements but the rest of the council will most definitely vote in favor, they always do. Remember that while campaigning Mayor Healy was against tax abatements for waterfront property; this Newport building is at the rivers edge. However since his election the Mayor has supported every tax abatement on and off the waterfront.

The two questions I have for the council are:
1. Is it absolutely necessay for Newport to get a tax abatement for this project? NJ State Law states that tax abatements should be issued as an incentive to build in "an area in need of redevelopment". Check out this promotional material, mainly the second page under "Urban Incentives".

2. Where is the detailed financial analysis and projection that we can inspect showing the financial benefit that Jersey City receives from issuing this abatement verses the developer paying regular property taxes?

I urge all Jersey City, NJ residents to show up and speak out at this meeting. At last years Newport abatement vote this developer had 200 of its paid employees show up at city hall to back them and tell sob stories about how they love their jobs. Lets turn the table on them this Wednesday.
Wednesday April 26, 2006 6:30PM
City Hall Council Chambers
280 Grove Street
Jersey City, NJ

No need to get on any list to speak, comments are permitted before each vote by any city resident.

[via JCList]

A FRIEND OF A FRIEND OF A FRIEND

2006-04-16T19:42:00.000-04:00

The Friends of Hamilton Park just announced the farmers participating in this year's HP Farmers' Market and next month's planting event:

LGBTQ PROM!

2006-04-16T01:33:00.000-04:00

WEEKEND CELEBRATION

2006-04-15T11:51:00.000-04:00

This weekend, people all over this fine city are celebrating Easter, Passover, and the birthday of Prophet Mohammed. In the DoJo Mojo household, we are celebrating my 5-lb. weight loss. Woohoo!

SMALLEST COOLEST APARTMENT

2006-04-13T01:04:00.000-04:00

It's true. I am a total design ~~whore~~ junkie. I am a daily Apartment Therapy and design*sponge reader, so you can just imagine my glee when I found a fellow junkie right here in DoJo!

Vote for Gideon and Tracy's Pocket Knife studio in AT's Smallest, Coolest Apartment contest!

FILMS IN VAN VORST 2006

2006-04-12T01:04:00.000-04:00

The lovely folks behind Films in Van Vorst have a brand-spankin' new blog, and they've posted the 2006 schedule. They still need volunteers and sponsors, so please email them if you have extra time or extra money, or both.

http://filmsinvanvorst.wordpress.com/
filmsinvanvorst[at]gmail[dot]com

THE DOJO PIMPDADDY

2006-04-09T16:39:00.000-04:00

The pink pimpdaddy: real-live pimp or performance artist? You decide. Post your pimp sightings here.

In other news, the naked cowboy has been spotted pimping his photographs, plus his brand new blog.

You ~~heard~~ read it here first.

[via JCList]

JUSTICEIRO ART

2006-04-06T10:47:00.000-04:00

Get thee to Subia's! JCList's Justiceiro, aka the naked cowboy, is the featured artist for April.

Subia's Organic Market and Cafe
506 Jersey Ave, JC

YOGA NEWS

2006-04-06T10:43:00.000-04:00

Yoga Shunya has some fun things coming up for spring - kid's yoga, a singing workshop, another True Beginners Series, and a new series on Moving from Level 1 to Level 2. They will be closed on Easter Sunday, April 16.

On Saturday, April 29th, Yoga Shunya will participate in Jersey City's Historic Downtown District specials with a free intro to yoga class at 3:00 pm and a 20% discount for massage with Charmian Creagle. Simply arrive around 2:45 for the yoga and call Charmian at 646.258.5411 to make an appointment.

Kid's Yoga
April 11 - Free Demo Classes - Please reserve in advance
April 25 - Classes Begin - Please register in advance
Tuesdays 3:30 - 4:15 pm - ages 5 to 7
Tuesdays 4:30 - 5:15 pm - ages 8-12
$80 for 6 classes (8 week time limit)
$15 individual class
Yoga Shunya is happy to announce our new children's yoga classes. Children love yoga and Genie Morrow is a favorite teacher. One yoga mom called Genie "sunshine for children".

Yoga Benefits for Kids all ages
Increased self-esteem, confidence and courage
Improved concentration
Body awareness, strength and flexibility
Improved coordination and balance
Respect for the Earth

YOGA FOR KIDS AGES 5 to 7

Young children are introduced to basic yoga poses, movement sequences and breathing techniques. Classes include music, games, anatomy and healthy food choices. While having fun as a group, children learn to respect themselves and each other.

YOGA FOR KIDS AGES 8 TO 12

Children are introduced to basic yoga poses and sequences. Classes will cover educational topics, healthy eating habits, gratitude journal writing, and working as a group. As their bodies and minds develop, children will learn a range of techniques to aid in homework and testing, coordination and confidence.

Genie Morrow's musical background and love for children led her to teach yoga to children. Her goal is for every child to be comfortable and empowered in their body, confident and compassionate, and to discover the possibility of inner-peace in their daily lives. Of course she encourages children to have fun in the process with lots of music & creative yoga games.

Genie studied Music & English Literature at Ithaca College. She also studied Child Development for seven years leading "Creative Workshops" which incorporated music, dance, drama & art. She is also a singer/songwriter in a power-pop band in NYC.

Genie has been teaching yoga to children for 4 years in schools and yoga studios in New York City and New Jersey. She received her adult yoga certification from The Yoga Institute of Houston and her children's yoga certification from Next Generation Yoga for Kids in New York City.

True Beginners 5-week Series
April 23, April 30, May 7, May 14, May 21
3:00 - 4:30 pm, Sundays
Elaine Hansen, Instructor
$75 for 5-week session. Please pre-register.

Many new to yoga want to learn the basics from the ground up and on a level playing field. This 5-week series, designed for absolute beginners, should be fun and productive and completely unintimidating. In a supportive environment, students are free to ask any questions and spend all the time they need to absorb the fundamentals of their new yoga practice. Students will discover their own strength and flexibility, and leave confident and inspired.
No hamstrings too tight! No arms too weak!

Elaine Hansen, founder and director of Yoga Shunya, began formal yoga studies at the Integral Yoga Institute of New York and continues in the Anusara tradition of yoga founded by John Friend. Elaine’s long career in teaching started in Paris where she taught English as a second language. Later, she taught painting and drawing at the University of North Texas, Princeton and many other colleges. Especially interested in the healing and transformative power of yoga, Elaine has taught yoga to staff and patients at New York Presbyterian Hospital and the yoga portion for cardiac patients in the Dean Ornish program and the Mind/Body Infertility Program at New York Hospital. Now, happy to serve the community in Jersey City, Elaine is grateful to all her teachers and students for the opportunity to share, learn and grow through yoga.

Moving from Level 1 to Level 2
April 23, April 30, May 14, May 21
9:00 - 10:30 am, Sundays
Marc Dennison, Instructor
$60 for 4-week series. Please pre-register.

Take the basics to the next level and learn the mechanics of inversions, more advanced back bends and arm balances. Marc will guide you through the new poses with Anusara's Universal Principles of Alignment. This series is for yoga students with a solid knowledge of Level 1 poses and ready for the exhilarating experience of handstands, wheel and many other fun, fun poses.

Marc Dennison practices and teaches in the Anusara Yoga tradition inspired by the American master, John Friend. He is also a big sports fan and still plays basketball, lacrosse and roller hockey. While at his day job as a telecommunication electrical engineer, Marc discovered the joy of yoga at a company lunchtime class. He so appreciated the benefits of the "universal principles of alignment" and the heart oriented philosophy, that he completed his Anusara Teacher Training in 2004 and has since been teaching children and adults. Marc is thankful for his many great teachers including John Friend, Lauren Mones, Vishali Varga, & Professor Douglas Brooks.

Grounded Singing

May 20 - Free Demo Class

June 3, June 10, June 17, June 24

2:30 - 3:30 pm, Saturday

Myra Vassian, Instructor

$60 for 4 week series. Please pre-register.

If you've ever had a secret desire to learn how to sing but thought that you needed to "start at very beginning"--this just may be the class for you. Built around the idea that "if you know how to talk, you can sing", this course gently gets you started finding your natural voice without having to sing in front of the whole group (unless you want to!) Join our friendly, non-critique oriented environment and learn to bring joy into your life through song!

Part I: The Basics
A 5-week introduction to singing using yoga asanas to relax inhibitions and better sense one's natural sound in singing.
Week 1: Open Demo Class - Free
Week 2: Creating a Palette of Sounds
Week 3: Breathing to Sing
Week 4: Making Space for a Resonant Sound
Week 5: Singing from the Heart

In general, all singing will be as a group and no one need sing in front of the class alone. Those students wishing to take Part II--Building on the Basics (Fall '06)--must take weeks 2-5 of Part I as a prerequisite unless given special permission by the instructor.

Myra Vassian, a voice teacher since 1985, grew up in the mountains of NC, where she was greatly influenced by Appalachian folk music and her father’s love for opera and jazz. After receiving her Bachelor of Music from Baylor University, TX, Myra returned to the mountains for her Master of Arts at Western Carolina University. Soon after, she was awarded an International Rotary Scholarship to attend the Conservatory of Music in Zürich, Switzerland. Myra remained in Switzerland for five years, graduating from the Biel Opera Studio with a Distinguished Artist Diploma and singing several leading opera roles in various theaters. Upon returning to the United States, Myra continued to sing professionally as well as to teach voice for several years at Davidson College and Central Community Piedmont College in North Carolina. Since moving to New York in 1995, she has taught lower school music in Manhattan and currently serves as Director of Music at The City Church of New York. Her private voice students range in age from 12 to 60+, several having performed professionally in regional theater, Broadway and Off-Broadway productions. Myra will be part of a Cabaret show slated for the Duplex in May /June and plans to release a solo CD of sacred music later this year.

JC LINK LOVE

2006-03-29T17:11:00.000-05:00

I recently laid my eyes on some photos by Tyson Thorne, a fellow JC resident and photographer. The site clearly needs to be updated, just like The Sold Coast and New York's Sixth.

Where is everyone these days?

JCPD BLUES

2006-03-24T17:47:00.000-05:00

The Guardian Angels had their info session last week, and now it's the JCPD's turn. I really don't care who patrols the streets, as long as somebody does.

On March 27, 2006 at 6:30 p.m. the Jersey City Police and Mayor Healy will host an event at the new Frank R. Conwell School auditorium located on Grand and Bright Street (entrance for the event will be on the Bright Street side).The event will include; Chief of Police Robert Troy announcing new programs that the police department will be implementing, safety Awareness material, and free refreshments. This event promises to be very informative and we look forward to seeing you there.

FLEA CASTLE

2006-03-21T22:45:00.000-05:00

Miniature Castle in the Swamp
Originally uploaded by Morton Fox.

I'd heard about this miniature castle in Liberty State Park decades ago, but never had the balls to navigate through those overgrown weeds and risk being bitten by fleas. This flickr set by Morton Fox is proof that it exists.

JCLIR

2006-03-10T01:02:00.000-05:00

I have to admit that it's been a while since I last tuned into JCLIR, but boy was I happy to learn that they've recently added one of my all-time favorite local bands, Black Sonny, to their playlist. [Note to self: update the BS link on the right margin]

I also learned that they're looking to expand and add local spoken word artists to their roster of local talent. Apparently the plan is to start off a weekly show, and possibly spin off another station [and website], given positive feedback and a large enough artist network.

So to all the JC-based spoken word artists out there in Internet-land, send your name, website (if applicable), city, state, and any recordings to: submissions@voices.jclir.com.

MARY AFTER ALL READING

2006-03-06T09:29:00.000-05:00

Fernham gave me a heads up on today's reading by Bill Gordon, author of the JC-set novel, Mary After All. I won't be able to attend, but I am posting it here in the hope that some of you will:

MONDAY, MARCH 6: Please join us for an exciting evening as buzzed-about new literary series, "The Reader's Room: Where Writers Take Center Stage," at Mo Pitkin's ( www.mopitkins.com), welcomes breakout debut novelists MARCY DERMANSKY, author of TWINS (William Morrow, October 2005), which The New York Times Book Review called "a brainy, emotionally sophisticated bildungsroman-for-two," and BILL GORDON, author of MARY AFTER ALL (Dial Press, January 2006), a remarkable first novel that prompted the The Boston Globe note that, "Like gritty Jersey City itself, Mary's life traces a cycle of decline and resurgence. Gordon brings warmth and compassion to telling the story." Local independent bookseller Bluestockings will have books for sale at the event. Mo Pitkin's is located at 34 Avenue A, between 2nd and 3rd Streets. 7:00PM, FREE.

[via Fernham]

DEFEND YOURSELF

2006-03-05T12:49:00.000-05:00

From the Jersey Journal [February 17, 2006] :

In response to recent muggings in Downtown Jersey City, women's self-defense classes are now being offered at Victory Hall, 186 Grand St., at Luis Muñoz Marin Boulevard.

The classes will begin the first week of March and will be every Monday and Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.

Read the full article here:
Self-defense classes for Downtown women

GLITTER & GROWING PLAINS

2006-03-05T08:41:00.000-05:00

Today's Times has the long-awaited piece on crime and crime prevention in JC.

On JCList, one resident stated that "the article made JC sound like we have crimes happening outside our door every hour of the day," while another contended that it "leaned toward the sensational side," and yet another simply wondered, "[w]here's the Glitter?"

I believe the piece -- which I and other members of the downtown neighborhood watch groups have been anxiously awaiting* -- is long overdue. In fact, it's about 3 or 4 months overdue, because Jonathan Miller has been asking to join the Midnight Patrol since the last patrol we did in October. Clearly, however, the recent high-profile events [the mugging of Councilman Vega's wife, the arrival of the Guardian Angels after the Dixon Deli armed robbery, and Councilman Fulop's public request for JCPD Chief Troy's resignation] were an added impetus.

The article, which I believe was not at all sensationalistic, focused two of the essential things concerning many Jersey Citians today: crime and its prevention. It detailed the recent crimes in our area, as well as the four elements that will help in deterring it: the municipal government, the JCPD, the neighborhood watch groups, and yes, the highly visual and apparently controversial Guardian Angels.

Overall I am happy with the way the article turned out, though frankly, I'm a little bummed that it didn't mention the GA info session which many residents and neighborhood groups worked so hard to organize for the GAs.

* In the interest of full disclosure, I am a member of the JC Neighborhood Watch Association, which is always looking for more members and volunteers. Please send an email to jcnwa@comcast.net to pitch in or join the mailing list

NEW JERSEY CITY vs. OLD JERSEY CITY

2006-03-04T16:12:00.000-05:00

There's an interesting piece in phillyBurbs.com about the Jersey City in which I grew up and the Jersey City in which I now live. Both JCs still exist, and it's an interesting dichotomy to say the least.

Jersey City grows, but not everywhere

STIR CRAZY

2006-03-04T16:08:00.000-05:00

Children and their parents [or guardians] are highly encouraged to go stir crazy tomorrow afternoon.

Child Friendly Initiative of JC
http://www.cfijc.org

JC, MEET THE GUARDIAN ANGELS

2006-03-03T17:46:00.000-05:00

CONTACT: PRESS: CONTACT: PRESS: 347-789-7508
Jersey City Guardian Angels
Mark Adams ~ Chapter Leader ~ 201-304-5167
guardianangelsnynj@hotmail.com
www.guardianangels.org

Guardian Angels Information Session
Thursday, March 16
7:30 - 9:00 PM
Frank R. Conwell Middle School #4 auditorium/theater
107-108 Bright Street, which is between Monmouth and Jersey Ave.

http://www.guardianangels.org

Jersey City Guardian Angels announce Public Meeting on Safety and Security: ‘Dare to Care’

The Jersey City Guardian Angels announce a public meeting on safety and security with ‘Dare to Care’as their motto. Members of the Downtown Watch, Van Vorst Park Watch, Boys and Girls Clubs of Hudson County, Dixon Deli, and others will also speak on crime prevention.

The Downtown Watch has secured facilities near Van Vorst Park for the JC Chapter of the Guardian Angels to hold a public information meeting for all residents of Jersey City. This important meeting will be held on Thursday, March 16^th from 7:30 until 9PM at the new Frank R. Conwell Middle School #4 auditorium/theater, located at 107-108 Bright Street which is between Monmouth and Jersey Ave.

All residents of Jersey City are welcome and the Guardian Angels will address various programs they administer and they will answer questions from the general public about working with other neighborhoods and neighborhood groups throughout all areas of Jersey City.

The Jersey City Chapter of the Guardian Angels covers Jersey City, Newark, and parts of New York including Queensbridge, Canarsie, Red Hook and Sunset Park. There are approximately 20 members of this chapter including 6 who are Jersey City residents.

The Guardian Angels members are widely diverse and include life-long Jersey City resident,Tony Torres, Chief of Staff for Freeholder Eliu Rivera and another Jersey City member, “Mike”, is an alumnus of NYU, former reporter and now teacher, who says that the Guardian Angels are “inter-activists” who are “…there to assist, there to care.” “We use our over 27 years of experience to help neighborhoods help themselves.” This enables both communities and police to work better, through safety and security tips of alertness that can be taught and how to make incident reportings of suspicious activities.

The JCGA chapter leader is Mark Adams who lived in Jersey City Heights for 14 years. Curtis Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels, has directed that the JC chapter shall patrol virtually every day and night at this time until further notice. The Guardian Angels patrols are also working with the combined patrols of the Downtown Watch monthly neighborhood patrol that consists of members of the Jersey City Neighborhood Watch Assn. (JCNWA) and the Van Vorst Park Neighborhood Watch (VVPNW).

This initial gathering of the JC Guardian Angels was brought about by the muggings of the wife of JC Council President Mariano Vega’s wife and the armed mugging and theft of the Dixon Deli. The owner and wife of the Dixon Deli are also members of the Guardian Angels. Contact with Curtis Sliwa brought the Guardian Angels to form a chapter in Jersey City.

Supporters of this informational meeting include:

Jersey City Neighborhood Watch:
jcnwa@comcast.net

Van Vorst Park Watch:
v v n w a t c h@ g m a i l . c o m

Alberta Walker/Youth Achievement Center of Boys & Girls Clubs of Hudson County:
awalker@bgchc.org

and other neighborhood groups. (final names TBA: final revisions due Mon, March 6 @ 10PM)

SAY HELLO TO DOUG

2006-02-27T00:38:00.000-05:00

Looks like we've got yet another JC ~~blogger~~ photoblogger. Everyone, say "hi" to Doug.

MY LENS

2006-02-26T15:39:00.000-05:00

Loews Theater
Originally uploaded by gail on the web.

Loew's Jersey Theater
Photo by gail on the web

GHETTO SOUL

2006-02-24T16:22:00.000-05:00

Saxophonist Bryan Beninghove assembles his B3 Explosion for this all out soulgroove party.Joe Kapp will be performing on a vintage Hammond B3 organ, while guitarist Gene Segal & drummer Geoff Clapp hold down fort.The Fabulous Longo Brothers (Mike & Pat) have some vintage equipment of their own. They will be handling 78 platters on a coffin booth.There is no gig hipper than this.

http://www.fifty8.com

BAD BOYS, BAD BOYS, WHAT YOU GONNA DO?

2006-02-22T22:46:00.000-05:00

I was still swooning over Ace from American Idol when I heard Chief Troy from JCPD announcing their new campaign on the local news.

Residents of JC are encouraged to call (201) 547-JAIL to report information leading to the arrest of JCPD's most wanted. I just wish they'd post photos and info of these people on their site.

In other news, Time Bandit saw a couple of
Guardian Angels on the PATH train yesterday.

Between the men and women in blue and the angels in red, I fully expect crime to go down. Here's to hoping!

JC + SNOW

2006-02-13T21:42:00.000-05:00

I haven't had a chance to transfer my image files from my SD card to my laptop, but fortunately there is no shortage of beautiful photos of JC with snow on the web:

JCList Photo Gallery: Dixon Mills photo by OneSkirt

JCVibe: The Biggest Blizzard of all time!

Flickr: pmarella's Jersey City

GeniusLessons' hell of a shot

and another one from GL

Time Bandit: Morning Glory (click for video)

Flickr: Jersey city by Guav

Another one by Guav

PINK PIMPDADDY

2006-02-10T20:04:00.000-05:00

In my ongoing pursuit to showcase the ghetto fabulousness of this city, I present to you ...

THE PINK PIMPDADDY!

OK, so I totally missed the shot [I didn't get my camphone out in time, so I snapped the photo after he passed me], but I'm sure you can capture the essence of the Pink Pimpdaddy's ghetto fabulousness.

And they say JC's character has been ruined by yuppies. I think not!

FEBRUARY FRIDAYS @ GRACE VAN VORST

2006-02-10T19:58:00.000-05:00

I know it's a bit late, but you can still check out tonight's event at Grace Van Vorst!

CAP'N FORGOTTEN

2006-02-06T23:32:00.000-05:00

Damn. I just realized I missed tonight's Captyn Zodiak show on public access. Must remember to watch it on Wednesday night.

FRIENDS OF THE LOEW'S

2006-02-06T17:58:00.000-05:00

From the Friends of the Loew's website:

Important Message To Supporters and Patrons of Friends of the Loew’s:

Recently, the City has taken the position that the lease which was executed between it and Friends of the Loew’s on October 15, 2004, is not valid, that the ordinance which approved the lease should be rescinded, and that the property should be conveyed to the Jersey City Redevelopment Agency.

It is our position that the lease was approved by the City Council, signed by the proper City officials, and is valid and binding on the parties. We have retained counsel to try to resolve the matter with the City, on a consensual basis if possible, or by litigation, if necessary. We will keep you informed on this site as the case develops.

Greyhound Friends goes to the movies!

Friday, Feb. 10
8 PM
Best In Show

Saturday, Feb. 11
4 PM
Old Yeller

8 PM
The Misfits

This film weekend is presented in partnership with Greyhound Friends of New Jersey, Inc., an non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and finding homes for greyhounds that have been "retired" from racing. Without the efforts of GFNJ, all of these beautiful animals would have been destroyed. Half of the net proceeds of this film series will go to GFNJ.

Representatives of GFNJ will be on hand to give information and answer questions. A few dogs will be at the Theatre for the screenings - which will give patrons a chance to meet these wonderful, needy animals, and just maybe consider giving one a home.

For much more information about Greyhound Friends of New Jersey, Inc. and the organization's important work, visit http://www.greyhoundfriendsnj.org.

MY LENS

2006-02-06T00:15:00.000-05:00

St. Mary's, Jersey City
Photo by Vidiot

BLACK MARIA

2006-02-03T14:58:00.000-05:00

Black Maria was the world's first motion picture studio, and the namesake of the film festival kicking off this weekend all over the US.

Here are the JC events:

Friday, February 3rd at 7:00pm
BLACK MARIA PREMIER AND AWARD CEREMONY
NEW JERSEY CITY UNIVERSITY
Margaret Williams Theater, Hepburn Hall
Jersey City, NJ
201 200 2043

Saturday, February 4th at 7:00pm
JERSEY CITY MUSEUM
350 Montgomery Street
Jersey City, NJ
(201)413-0303

For a complete events listing, click here.

MY LENS

2006-02-01T23:43:00.000-05:00

GeniusLesson's flickr photos of JC just gave me an idea. Starting today, I will post one image of this city a ~~day~~ week, as photographed by various residents and posted publicly on flickr.

Photo by mrosal

MISS PHOTOGENIC

2006-02-01T23:31:00.000-05:00

Genius Lessons claims that Jersey City is pretty in the morning and weird [yet photogenic] at night. Can't argue with him there.

My favorites from his series:

O CAPTAIN! MY CAPTAIN!

2006-02-01T23:24:00.000-05:00

Jersey City, meet the Captyn:

Get up close and personal:
Mondays 10PM
Wednesdays 9PM
Channel 51

[via JCList]

CRITICS POLL 2005

2006-01-31T22:49:00.000-05:00

It's true. The wait is over. The Critics Poll 2005 is up -- here and here.

Keep checking Tris' site this week, he'll be updating it with new articles and lists each day.

INDOOR POOL

2006-01-30T17:10:00.000-05:00

There's this building that has been under construction for nearly a year, and its basement [like many other basements in DoJo] gets flooded each time it rains. The difference, however, is that most of not all occupied buildings in downtown have sump pumps and drainage systems that remove the accumulated rainwater. This building, as you can see, does not.

I wonder if the MLS listing will include "indoor pool" as one of the property's amenities.

HUDSON RESTAURANT WEEK

2006-01-30T00:43:00.000-05:00

Week one of HRW is over, but don't fret; we have another week of tasty prix-fixe treats! I was only able to check out two JC restaurants last week, but boy oh boy were they good!

C-Side

Edward's Steakhouse

Next week's list:

CARNIVAL OF THE NJ BLOGGERS XXXVII

2006-01-29T09:36:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since I'd last been on the Carnival, mainly because I have been remiss in checking my DoJo Mojo email. So this week I submitted not one, or two, but three links to SmadaNek, who 1) thinks I am male, 2) thinks I am psychic, and 3) did a wonderful in this week's Carnival.

Get thee to the Carnival!

In other news, I ran into the the magnanimous Tris McCall, who was at Beechwood with some colleagues last night, diligently working on the latest Critics' Poll. I can't wait to see what they've come up with.

YOGA DAY USA

2006-01-28T13:42:00.000-05:00

Today is Yoga Day USA, and many centers throughout the country are offering either free or reduced-price classes all day to raise awareness about and encourage the public to discover yoga.

Here are some of the participating locations in JC:

Yoga Shunya
275 Grove Street
3rd Floor
Jersey City, NJ 07302
Yoga Day USA - Free Intro Class
3:00pm - 4:30pm
Elaine Hansen, Instructor

YogiEast
Dr. Albert Ellis Institute fundraiser
35 River Drive South
Jersey City, NJ
Everyone willing or curious to practice yoga.
Saturday, Feb. 18th 5 ~ 7pm
Donation $20/person
Pre~register at Newport Swim & Fitness
201-626-3161
YogiEast@webtv.net

Yoga Kids International
Public School #17
Jersey City, New Jersey
Teachers and Parents
Taste of YogaKids
Friday, Feb 3, 8 am to 3 pm
Diane Burstein
diane@yogafun4kids.com
www.yogakids.com

MARY AFTER ALL

2006-01-26T19:58:00.000-05:00

I ~~need to change~~ just changed my blogger settings so I will get email notifications whenever someone comments on this blog. I can't believe I missed this comment, and consequently missed this event.

Anyway, there's a new novel about Jersey City, which I think I will add to my brand-spankin' new book club's list.

Synopsis below:

Meet Mary Noland (nee Morelli), a tough-talking Jersey City native who comes of age during the turbulent 1970s. Marrying young to escape her parents, Mary finds herself shipwrecked by life with her philandering husband. Financially dependent on but emotionally abandoned by him, struggling to raise their two young sons virtually alone, Mary finally hits rock bottom. How she pulls herself up by her bootstraps is the story she tells in this remarkable debut. And the lives she touches en route to independence--giving a nun a makeover, bringing joy to a group of valium-addled housewives, going into business with her colorful host of Mafioso relatives--are testaments to the huge heart, generous spirit, and unflinching insight that make Mary unforgettable.

[via Fernham]

JAZZ IN JC

2006-01-25T13:07:00.000-05:00

Last year, I fell in love with the Rebecca Vallejo Project. This year, I discovered Bryan Beninghove. Where are the rest of the JC jazz cats hiding? A few more and we can have our own JC jazz festival!

GARAGE SALE

2006-01-25T11:41:00.000-05:00

I am so sad to learn that Zen Garage on Grove Street is currently holding its closing sale. I remember when it was literally housed in a 2-car garage on Mercer Street, across from the old [and now-defunct] thrift shop. When it moved to Grove, one block from the PATH station, I was ecstatic and had great hopes for it.

Owner Marcelo Kruschewky is such a nice fellow with exquisite taste, and shares my penchant for travel, art, and of course, shopping. He once said, “I tried to make [Jersey City] another artistic destination ... because the whole area is so diverse.” With his shop, he helped beautify Grove Street, supported local artists and, if I remember correctly, even opened up his home for a "Posh Places" feature in Chilltown magazine.

I hope the garage is reincarnated someplace else in JC in the near future. If you have some free time and need to purchase a gift or something nice for your home, say hi to Marcelo and help him sell off his inventory. The sale ends, and Zen Garage will close its doors permanently this Sunday, January 29th.

Zen Garage
302A Grove Street
Jersey City, NJ
201.432.1300

JC BLOG ROUNDUP

2006-01-25T00:26:00.000-05:00

JC in the blogosphere:

New York's Sixth thankfully returned last week from a mini-hiatus.
Genius Lessons attempted, and failed, to prevent an onslaught of shenanigans [yep, I loved that word, too!] on his birthday. Happy beer-day and many happy returns, Mike!
The Sold Coast paged through his charts
Judy Marciano has been spending more and more time in Jersey City, discovered our local jewel, Ibby's Falafel, and may have just made her first sale in JC.
Local gardening group and all-around nice people, the Friends of Hamilton Park, started a blog
DorkHat unveils his proposal for the Koosh Flogger Project and shares some of his JC pics
Where, oh where, has the Time Capsule gone?

SUNDAY JAZZ AT RACHEL

2006-01-23T11:34:00.000-05:00

I stopped by Rachel yesterday afternoon to pick up some late lunch and dessert and found jazz guitarist Nobuki Takame and pianist Hitoshi Kanda playing acoustic. Lite jazz and a light Mediterranean meal was a perfect mix for a lazy Sunday afternoon. They're playing at Kavehaz in Chelsea in a few weeks and I might just go and check them out at my old stomping grounds.

Nobuki Takamen Group
Live at Kavehaz
February 9th Thursday
6:00 - 8:30 PM (2 sets)

No cover charge ($10 minimum)
Kavehaz
37 West 26th Street
New York, NY
http://www.nobukitakamen.com

RACHEL
281 Grove Street
Jersey City
(201)309-0019

ST. FRANCIS DEVELOPMENT

2006-01-23T01:41:00.000-05:00

I have spent many a day [and night] at the old St. Francis Hospital in Hamilton Park. It was my friends' alma mater, and consequently the site of many nursing school dorm room sleepovers. It was also the second home for my parents, who were members of the Secular Franciscan Order, and the center where they held regional meetings, administered last rites to dying Catholic patients, held Catechism classes, and assisted in Communion rites at the first floor chapel.

Today, St. Francis is an abandoned shell of a once vibrant hospital, nursing school and community center. The former hospital, along with two parcels, are being converted into 300 new condos and apartments mixed with some commercial retail space. The proposed development has many JC residents concerned, and prompted the creation of a watchdog committee. Visit the 25mc Watchdog Group website for details and updates on the project.

MAKING THE MOVES IN DOJO

2006-01-23T00:01:00.000-05:00

Hoboken-based fashionista turned realtor Judy Marciano checked out some local shops and properties this weekend. She fed her soul, looked at some multi-family properties, enjoyed the grand view, and got hungry like everybody else.

HUDSON RESTAURANT WEEK

2006-01-22T22:34:00.000-05:00

Hudson Restaurant Week is back for its second year, and it's gotten bigger and better.

For ten weekdays, about forty restaurants in Jersey City, Hoboken, Bayonne and Secaucus will offer prix-fixe lunches for $15 and dinners for $30 (excluding tip, tax and beverage). The kickoff party is set for Tuesday night at Oddfellows in DoJo, and I suggest you RSVP to be included in the guestlist.

For a list of the participating JC restaurants and their individual prix-fixe menus, click here.

BROKE-ASS CITY

2006-01-20T09:55:00.000-05:00

Homeowners all over Jersey City have been reeling over their their first-quarter tax bills, which were sent out earlier this month. Although the actual amount of the tax increase is yet to be determined by the city, most if not all 2006 Q1 tax bills have already reflected as much as a 50% increase over last year's Q1.

Jerome Lazarus, a former employee of the city's finance department who says he hasn't missed a Jersey City municipal budget meeting in more than half a century, has more than a little fiscal knowledge.

And Jersey City, he says, has reached "a crisis in its finances."

Full Jersey Journal story here. Also, read the tax hike discussion by local downtown residents on JCList here.

[Image created by Justiceiro via JCList]

50 99 CENT [STORES] IN MY HOOD

2006-01-19T21:18:00.000-05:00

A Lehman College sociologist living in Jersey City comments on 99 cent shops:

[.....] I have come to develop a begrudging respect for the 99 cent store. I shop in them. And sometimes I just go in to browse. I find them no less fascinating a social space than shopping malls, and I find the products that they sell to be like little case studies of global capitalism. And like most people, I also enjoy getting a bargain.

More here.

DOWNTOWN HARVEST

2006-01-18T09:56:00.000-05:00

If you are looking to purchase locally grown organic produce, meet Downtown Harvest, Jersey City's own community supported agriculture, or what some call a food co-op (though apparently there is a huge difference).

Open enrollment is scheduled for next Thursday, January 26, 7:30 PM at OLC Church Hall at 120 Sussex Street. This season's farmer is John Krueger of Starbrite Farm, Hardwick, NJ

Information from http://www.downtownharvest.org:

Downtown Harvest CSA is an initiative begun in 2004 by members of OLC, (Our Lady of Czestochowa Church) who want to enjoy fresh, organic produce, grow a more direct relationship with our community (Jersey City, NJ) and the earth, and source and foster sustainable agriculture. We hope that people expressing a desire for membership of this CSA share our values and appreciate this spiritual connection with all heavenly bodies - including our own!

Traditionally, a CSA, (Community Supported Agriculture,) is defined as a group of people who join together to help financially support a small-scale, local farmer in exchange for nutritious and fresh, organic produce. Not only do we intend to help grow a farmer's crops by financial means, but we also aspire to grow our relationship with the farmer and his/her family by understanding their ecologically-sound methods of farming, their trials and tribulations and by building new friendships.

In exchange for the support of our members, Downtown Harvest commits to:

Provide weekly fresh produce throughout the season.
Ensure the crops are weekly harvested as close to the pick-up times as possible so that members receive the freshest possible produce, filled with the highest value of health and nutrient content.
Ensure optimization of the earth's natural resources.

Some details:

A full share is $425 and a half share is $215. If you consider the cost over the season, it represents good value for fresh picked organic produce.
Pickups will be from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm in front of the OLC convent at 180 Grand Street. Shares that are not picked up will be donated to a local charity who will use it to feed people in need.

ON THE OUTS

2006-01-18T00:34:00.000-05:00

ON THE OUTS is a dramatic narrative feature based upon the real stories of girls from the streets and juvenile jail, who lent their voices and unique stories to the filmmakers. These are girls who struggle with all the highs and lows of teenage life in an inner-city world that makes its own rules.
The film follows the lives of three central characters from the same Jersey City neighborhood: Oz, 17, is a tough drug dealer with her own corner and the street's respect, who struggles to keep her family intact. Suzette, the sheltered 15 year old daughter of a single mother, whose first teenage crush has life changing repercussions, and Marisol, 17, a single mother who fights both her own demons and the uncompromising world of foster care to keep her child.

ON THE OUTS
A drug dealer. An addict. A runaway. The story of 3 girls.
In theaters (except Jersey City) this Friday, January 20.

SCENES FROM A HOOKAH PARTY

2006-01-16T23:56:00.000-05:00

Who knew there was a hookah bar right here in Jersey City? Apparently everyone but me. It'd been years since I last smoked a narghile/shisha/hookah, so this weekend, I joined some old & new friends at Abbey's, the site of our flavored tobacco orgy. Good times.

Abbey's Pub and Hookah Bar
http://www.abbeyspub.com/
407 Monmouth Street (corner Third Street)
Jersey City, NJ 07302
(201) 963-3334

I HEART JC

2006-01-13T17:40:00.000-05:00

Come on now, don't be shy. Show your Jersey City pride!

[In case you all were wondering, no, these are not my designs. I may come up with some in a week or two, though.]

OH WHEN THE SAINTS STRIPPERS GO MARCHING IN ...

2006-01-13T01:58:00.000-05:00

"A lot of people want to get off of work, have a drink and a smoke and watch some pretty girls. There's nothing wrong with that."

Overheard: "Is that a cigarette in your pocket or are you just excited see me?"

This is non-DoJo-specific, but apparently there was a 100-stripper march in Trenton yesterday, in which exotic dancers defiantly puffed on their cigarettes in revealing outfits on the steps of the Statehouse.

I don't know what's funnier: that only 20 strippers (with 400 other protestors/gawkers) showed up, or that Gov. Codey claimed, "it's been a long time since I've been in one of those establishments."

More photos here. Video of NBC report here.

In other Jersey news, come see what the new NJ slogan is. Feel free to comment with your witty comebacks. In the meantime, I think I'm going to order one of these babies for myself.

MUSIC LINK LOVE

2006-01-11T13:24:00.000-05:00

Here are a couple of sites relating to music made in Jersey City:

http://jclir.com/
http://www.jerseycitymusic.com/
http://www.harmonicfrequency.com/
EDIT: http://wfmu.org/ *

For individual band or musician sites, see the music links on the right.

* Thanks to Glenn for the reminder!

DoJo CALENDAR

2006-01-04T17:32:00.000-05:00

WED, JAN 4

Bryan Beninghove Trio
10:00 PM
The Lamp Post Bar & Grill
2nd st bet Monmouth & Brunswick St
201 222-1331
No Cover

THU, JAN 5

The Arthouse Open Mic
Jersey City's longest running Performance Nite/Open Mic
Featuring Award-Winning Poet and Journalist
GEORGE WALLACE
Suffolk County's First Poet Laureate, Editor of Poetrybay
and Co-Host of PoetryBrook Radio Show at WUSB
$3 admission, refreshments available
Victory Hall Cultural Center
186 Grand St (at Marin Blvd.)
Jersey City, NJ
http://www.arthouseproductions.org/

The Waterbug Hotel Freeform Gathering
(formerly Words&Music)
@ The Waterbug Hotel (annex) 10pm-1:30am
7 Erie St., Jersey City
(Located in the downtown area, mins from NYC and 1 blk west of the Grove St. Path stop)
IT'S ABOUT THE ART OF CELEBRATING!
http://thewaterbughotel.com

FRI, JAN 6

Open Mike at Sweet Priscilla Friday's
9-11 pm
sweetpriscilla@comcast.net
Sweet Priscilla 530 Jersey Ave. (btw. Newark Ave & Chris Columbus)

SAT, JAN 7

Day Trip to Metropolitan Museum of Art
9:00am - 4:00pm
The Friends of Hamilton Park are planning a trip to visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC on Saturday January 7th.
You're invited to join us to meet new people and to view some priceless art at this world famous museum.
For more information, contact Janet Allen at 201-388-4506.
Meet at Basic in Hamilton Park

Film at Grace Special Event
Garth Kobal, curator of Film at Grace, will present his experimental film NATURTRANE to kick off the New Year and to mark his 40th birthday.
Acoustic musical guests Karen Davis and Robert Gibbons will perform as well as percusssionist Cat Lombardi.
An assortment of food and drink will be on hand. In lieu of birthday presents, guests are encouraged to make a donation of $10 or less to support programs at Grace Church Van Vorst.
201-222-6998
2nd Street & Erie Street

Family Workshop: Silk Screening and Stencil Fun
Jersey City Museum -- Saturday, January 7, 1-3pm. Learn about silk screening and look at examples of prints in the galleries; then make a stencil and use it to make a silk screen print (Girl Scouts will work towards their Prints & Graphics Badge).
Brownies and younger children will learn to mix colors and use them to create designs from stencils and stamps they have made (Brownies: Colors & Shapes Try It project).
Family admission: $8, call 201-413-0303 x141. Girl Scouts & Brownies call 973-746-8200 to register through the Girl Scout office.
201-413-0303
Jersey City Museum
350 Montgomery Street

SUN, JAN 8

Spirit of Life Ensemble Performs Live @ Victory Hall
2:30-5:30PM
“Continue bringing in the New Year with a ‘Jazzfull’ afternoon of live music! Superb Jazz Venue without having to go to New York...”
Victory Hall Cultural Center
186 Grand Street - Jersey City –NJ
(Corners of Grand/ Marin - Parking Available)
Featuring:
Spirit of Life Ensemble World Class Musicians & Comedian Bob Farley
$15. @ Door – ($5 off Senior/Students with ID) $12 advance www.paypal.com ID Acct - rupriseup@verizon.net
For more Info Call: 201-333-7950 / 551 580-1224 (recorded message) www.victoryhall.org
rupriseup@verizon.net
www.rupmusic.com
201-562-2672

DIEZ FOR DOJO

2005-12-28T18:24:00.000-05:00

10 things to do in DoJo this New Year's weekend:

1) New Year's Extrava-Gala @ 58 Coles Street
Doors open at 9:00 pm
$15, $10 after 2:00 am.
Live music by The Coffin Daggers, American Watercolor Movement.
On the dancefloor: Sexy Lexy, Dancing Tony, DJ Soul, DJ Eggs, DJ Bjorno.
http://fifty8.com

2) Bar Majestic
8pm to 11pm Open Bar and Hors D'Oeuvres!
$30/person in advance or $35/person at the door.
11pm to 3am $10 Entrance and Cash Bar.
Book Now...Entrance Limited on Capacity!
Majestic Liquors and Foods Space open for mingling
DJ Kevin Spyker spinning lush beats all night
Hors D'Oeuvres include cajun grilled shrimp, bruchetta, quiche, our signature tapas, meats, artisan cheeses and more!
Reservations:
Beata 201.303.9128
beataak@yahoo.com

3) L.I.T.M.
140 Newark Avenue
http://litm.com

4) The Merchant
279 Grove Street
201-200-0202
New Year's Eve 2006
$65/Person
Open Bar
Hot & Cold Buffet
Champagne Toast
Party Favors
DJ
9pm - 1:30am
Call for Tickets
201-200-0202
http://www.themerchantnj.com

5) Komegashi Too
New Year's Eve party
$100 per person
99 Pavonia Avenue
http://www.komegashi.com

6) Liberty House New Year's Eve Ball
Dance in the new year in our Grand Ballroom from 9PM-1AM, or bid farewell to 2005 with dinner in the Restaurant, open until 9PM.
http://www.libertyhouserestaurant.com

7) Amiya's New Year's Eve Gala
Enjoy an elegant 4-course meal with friends and family listening to live music and sipping champagne.
Dance floor opens at 10:00 pm, so bring your dancing shoes.
Limited capacity available so please call ahead for your reservaions.
Live Music by : "AUM Band"
http://amiyarestaurant.com/
Harborside Financial Center, Plaza V
160 Greene Street
Jersey City, NJ
Ph.#: (201) 433-8000

8) Madame Claude Cafe
364 1/2 4th Street
New Years Eve Menu:
Two seatings at 6.30-8.30pm & 9-11pm
Reservations Only
$65 per person
Tax and Gratuity not included
http://www.madameclaudecafe.com

9) Oddfellows
111 Montgomery Street
(corner of Warren)
201.433.6999
New Year's Eve tickets on Sale Now!
http://www.oddfellowsrest.com

10) Light Horse Tavern
New Year’s Eve Dinner
Early Seating 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm - $55.00
Late Seating 7:15 pm - 11:00 pm - $60.00
Call 201-946-2028 for reservations
http://lighthorsetavern.com/newyears.html

CHRISTMAS EVE EVE

2005-12-23T22:27:00.000-05:00

We kicked off the holiday weekend with a quiet dinner at Amiya, where we feasted on some great Indian food, followed by a quick last-minute gift run at Target, where half of Jersey City and a quarter of Manhattan apparently also decided to stop by, and finally to Kim's, where I resisted the urge to buy a Wong Kar-Wai DVD set for only $75.00 but walked away with individual DVDs [2046, In the Mood for Love and Chungking Express]. We also rolled by Hourglass hoping to order one of their tasty pies but found that they'd closed for the evening. Natch.

Anyway, I'll be away for the holidays, spreading some Dojo Mojo love in other parts of the state. I wish everyone a Happy and a Merry and all that good stuff!

Amiya
Harborside Financial Center, Plaza V
160 Greene Street
Jersey City, NJ
201.433.8000

Kim's Mediatronics
88 Pavonia Avenue
Jersey City, NJ 07310
201.798.8008

Hourglass Fine Foods
528 Jersey Avenue
Jersey City, NJ 07302
201.434.3039

DOJO CRIME FIGHTERS

2005-12-23T01:48:00.000-05:00

Two days ago, Ward E [aka the DoJo district for you non-Jersey Citians] Councilman Steve Fulop unveiled his latest project, the Crime Map for downtown JC.

Yesterday, NewYorksSixth thought he'd pitch in and unveiled his Corruption Mapper.

MELTDOWN COUNTDOWN

2005-12-16T01:32:00.000-05:00

It's always sad to see a local mom & pop shop go out of business, and even more so when its owner has become a sort of father figure and friend.

We'll be mourning the loss of Melt after Glenn closes its doors at 5:00 pm this Sunday. But until then, I urge you all to stop by, have a final cheesemelt sandwich or two, as some friends and I did on Tuesday night.

Melt
581 Jersey Avenue
ersey City, NJ 07302
(201)459-0008

http://meltjc.com

FIFTY-EIGHT THRIFTY EIGHT

2005-12-15T22:06:00.000-05:00

Support your local artists!

JC IN 3

2005-12-15T14:17:00.000-05:00

THE GOOD:
LeFrak to drop suit against JC Museum

THE BAD:
Melt to be extremely closed after this Sunday

THE UGLY:
Mayor Healy announces property tax hike in JC.

I may have to move out of JC soon, if this pushes through!

KIM'S MEDIATRONICS

2005-12-06T00:34:00.000-05:00

The long-awaited opening of the Kim's Mediatronics store was scheduled for 4:00 PM today, but sadly, as of 5:00 PM, its doors were still closed.

Does anyone know if it actually opened today? More importantly, does anyone know if Kim's will re-activate my 10-year-old account and waive the $9.99 fee?

Now all we need is a Two Boots pizza shop and a decent Korean restaurant in DoJo, and we're set!

EDIT: Disregard that last question. The $9.99 fee is waived when you register online. Get thee to Kim's!

TGI[JC]F

2005-12-02T23:19:00.000-05:00

JCFridays is back!

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2ND, 2005

EVENT LISTINGS
for more information (including maps), please visit: http://www.jcfridays.com

9am - 9pm
JOHN MEAGHER ROTUNDA GALLERY
presents The Greenville Yards: a photo documentary (2nd floor), Ibou Ndoye solo exhibition (3rd floor).
City Hall, 280 Grove Street. 201-547-4333.

12pm - 6pm
GRIGORY GUREVICH STUDIO GALLERY
will present Watercolors.
282 Barrow Street. 201-451-4862.

6pm - 8pm
MANA FINE ARTS
Exhibition Opening for The Chair Story, featuring 21 artists.
Curated by Mike Filan & Kay Kenny.
227 Coles Street (under 12th Street overpass). 800-330-9659.

4pm - 3am
SIMPLE CAFÉ AND BAR
Photography exhibition, Works by Andre Omar Watts.
174 Coles Street at 9th Street. 201-222-3105.

6pm - 9pm
GALLERIE HUDSON
Complimentary wine and cheese reception showcasing
Local and International contemporary artists.
197 Newark Avenue. 201-434-1010.

11am - 5pm
JERSEY CITY MUSUEM
offers free admission to all exhibitions: 17 Jersey City artists are currently exhibiting at the museum. Exhibitions include "Circa Craft 2005" (the NJ State Council on the Arts Craft Annual), Michelle Vitale Loughlin's installation "Bound," and Guest Artist to the Permanent Collection, Margaret Murphy.
350 Montgomery Street at Monmouth. 201-413-0303

11am - 8:30pm.
MELT presents
the artwork of Peter Giaccio.
581 Jersey Ave. 201-459-0008

8pm - 9:15pm
THE MANAGEMENT COMPANY presents
The Long Christmas Dinner, a short play by Thornton Wilder.
Reservations recommended by calling 646-320-1318.
Victory Hall, 186 Grand St. at Marin Blvd. 201-209-0510.

8 - 11pm
YOGA SHUNYA presents
Dance performances by Heather Warfel and the County Prep High School Dance Program (8-8:45) and Live Jazz with the Dave Willocks Jazz Group, a concert of original music led by Dave Willocks, guitarist and Yoga instructor (9-11).
275 Grove Street (above the Majestic Theater). 201-610-9737

8pm - 10pm
GRACE CHURCH VAN VORST
Hudson County Music presents a short program of Bach, Beethoven and more by the Overtone Duet. World View performs music on mandolins. Informal preview performance of Jonathan Riedel's latest ballet Purgatorio, the second part of the Riedel Dance Theater's work-in-progress, The Divine Comedy. Program at 8pm, repeated at 9pm.
39 Erie Street (Enter through red doors on Second St.).
201-659-2211 x 8

10pm - midnight
SWEET PRISCILLA presents
Jersey City Unspoken, a spoken word performance featuring
Leila, Karina, Mike D, Chris Nine, Leslie R and more.
530 Jersey Ave. 201.240.5021

24 hours
PRO ARTS
Windows on Columbus presents Ibou Ndoye.
Mack-Cali Building Lobby,
Christopher Columbus Blvd. & Greene Street. 201-736-7057.

24 hours
E. JAN KOUNITZ presents
Indefinite Exposure: Mo' Drive-By Photos.
357 Palisade Avenue (Breher Brothers Building). 917-447-6588.

DISCOUNTS
Janam Tea Shop
353 Grove Street. 201-432-4TEA
FREE tea from 6-9pm!! Purchase any inspiring, art-related gift basket (with blue tissue paper) & receive 25% OFF the whole day!!

Melt
581 Jersey Ave. 201-459-0008.
Mention JC Fridays and get 15% off everything all day!

If you are interested in volunteering or participating as an arts organization or business, please email Christine Goodman at info@arthouseproductions.org or call (201) 915-9911.

JC MAGAZINE

2005-12-01T00:00:00.000-05:00

The Fall/Winter issue of Jersey City Magazine arrived in the mail today. It looks great, and it's jampacked with some pretty good content. I don't remember how many issues I've read so far, but I noticed marked improvement from the last one.

My only complaint is that the calendar, while brimming with local event listings, starts with October, so clearly the distribution is one month behind. Other than that, I look forward to Volume 2 Number 3.

JC IN THREE

2005-11-30T01:41:00.000-05:00

THE GOOD:
JCVibe has a new contest. If you are the first to identify the location of twelve photos to be unveiled over the next two weeks, you will receive a $200 gift certificate for Hudson Camera.

THE BAD:
Time Capsule noticed that DoJo has lost its soul.

THE UGLY:
111 First owner is a step closer to demolition.

GOOD TASTE IS INDEED TIMELESS

2005-11-27T19:58:00.000-05:00

A new gourmet shop opened in DoJo this month, and I thought, what better time to try them out than Thanksgiving? So on Wednesday night, we stopped by, partook of their free cosmos, and shopped for some cheeses.

After much ~~sampling~~ help from their fine cheese man, we excitedly went home with some cheese for our 4-cheese macaroni & cheese, and an order for an apple caramel walnut pie for Thanksgiving, each of which garnered raves from our family and friends.

Hourglass is a fabulous store. The quality & selection of the products it carries, as well as the knowlege and level of customer service of its employees surpassed my expectations.

I wish Karen and her husband the best of luck. Jersey City is a better town because of shops like Hourglass.

Hourglass Fine Foods
http://hourglassfinefoods.com
528 Jersey Avenue
Jersey City, NJ 07302
(201) 434-3039

DESTINATION UNKNOWN JERSEY CITY

2005-11-22T00:46:00.000-05:00

Move over, JCList, there's a new website in town!

I have no who is behind it or when it was launched, but I'm very happy to have stumbled upon Destination: Jersey City. It has a lot of useful features and content, and since there is no forum section [yet?], Mr. Falcon over at JCList has nothing to worry about.

Besides, the more the merrier, right?

http://www.destinationjerseycity.com

DOJO BIZZARO

2005-11-20T23:58:00.000-05:00

Time Capsule, while on a recent business trip to India, found himself in a bizzaro world halfway around the world.

What can I say? You can take a man out of DoJo, but you can never take DoJo out of a man.

WITNESS THE HEIST THIS & NEXT WEEKEND!

2005-11-11T11:55:00.000-05:00

Inspired by two true stories -- the largest unsolved art theft in American history and the recent closing of the 111 First Street arts center in Jersey City, Art House Productions invites you into
a "living art gallery," where reinvented works by Rembrandt, Degas, Vermeer and more come to life in a multimedia exploration of the value we place on art and artists.

Go and see the show that everyone is talking about. There are two weekends left.

Remaining performances are scheduled on:
Friday, November 11
Saturday, November 12
Thursday, November 17
Friday, November 18
Saturday, November 19

THE HEIST PROJECT
http://www.arthouseproductions.org/heist.html
Tickets $12 / $10 students and artists
For tickets, please call toll free (866) 811-4111 or visit www.theatermania.com
*Limited seating: advanced purchased tickets strongly recommended
Victory Hall Cultural Center
186 Grand St. Jersey City, NJ
(6 blocks from the Grove St. PATH)

MELTDOWN & EXPLOSION

2005-11-11T11:31:00.000-05:00

Here're some more good news from the Melt man:

First (and foremost!) came the grilled cheese. It was unpredictably (and a
bit hesitatingly) followed by the meltburger, meltdog, veggie sandwich and
tuna melt. On Friday (tomorrow!), Melt introduces its 6th major item, the
T.N.T. quesedilla to its permanent menu. As with everything else, Melt
does it different and better (if I may say so.) The T.N.T. is not for the
faint of heart. It consists of smoked turkey ‘n triple cheese (habanero
cheddar, monterey jack & cheddar) with diced tomatoes & peppers and is
served with sour cream & pico de gallo. An accompaniment of Paco’s
homemade guacamole is an option that really should be a requirement… we
challenge you to find a better avocado spread. For the more adventurous or
for more faint of heart, substitutions are permissible whenever possible.

As a special inducement – not that you should need one - we are offering a
free cup of wine Friday and Saturday after 5pm to anyone who purchases the
TNT or any sandwich. Hope to see y’all this weekend!

Melt
http://www.meltjc.com
(201) 459-0008
581 Jersey Ave, JC

OF BALLOTS AND BEER

2005-11-09T11:30:00.000-05:00

Corzine won and Forrester [as well as the other minor party candidates] lost. I'm just happy that the campaigning from both major parties are over. It's time for clean-up, and I don't mean just the state government.

Now on to more pressing issues: who's going to Trivia Night at Barrow Street bar tonight? I might stop by later in the night.

Barrow Street Bar & Grill
292 Barrow Street (cor. Mercer)
(201) 946-1411

JC BLOG ROUNDUP

2005-11-07T16:53:00.000-05:00

I haven't been spending much time in DoJo these days [except to go home to eat and sleep], but my fellow JC bloggers have been writing about their exploits:

GeniusLessons noticed that JC is beginning to look a lot like Christmas. He also checked out the Iron Monkey, a bar I've yet to visit.

TimeBandit saw The Heist on Saturday, then decided to give the Golden Cicada some love after reading the great news about it in the paper.

Last but not least, NY6 noted that Newport Mall raised its parking fees last week, though understandably didn't bother to step foot in that crappy mall.

DOJO DISCOUNTS

2005-11-07T16:47:00.000-05:00

Several DoJo merchants are offering discounts and freebies to entice shoppers to come and check them out this Friday and Saturday.

Come Discover Shopping and Services in Historic Downtown Jersey City. Bring a copy of this page or one of our postcards to the following shops Friday, November 11th & Saturday, November 12th to enjoy these special discounts.

Antheia Floral Design
218 Montgomery Street
212-309-9959
20% off Votivo and Dani candles and bath products. Free rose to customers who sign our mailing list.

Yoga Shunya
275 Grove Street
3rd floor
201-610-9737
Friday 5-6pm & 7:30-8:30pm: free 5-minute chair massage; 6pm: Free level 2 yoga class
Saturday 3-4pm: Free intro to yoga class; 4:30-7pm free 5 minute chair massages.

The Merchant Restaurant and Bar
279 Grove Street
201-200-0202
themerchantnj.com
25% off food.

Tia’s Place
277 Grove Street
201-451-9358
10% off all purchases

Rachel
281 Grove Street
November 11th Free Moroccan Mint Tea

N-Joyable Hair Design
283 Grove Street
201-985-0089
10% off haircuts, barber cuts, blow drys
20% off weaves.

Zen Garage
302A Grove Street
10% off all purchases.

GNC
314 Grove Street
201-332-2159
Free Gold Cards and Gold Card renewals ($15 value)

Woof’N Wash
496 Jersey Avenue
201-209-WOOF
$25 all baths regardless of dog size.
50% off nail grooming.

Hourglass Fine Foods
528 Jersey Avenue
201-434-3030
10% off all purchases.

Hudson Camera
130 Newark Avenue
201-332-7834
25% off all ready-made frames and albums.

LITM
140 Newark Avenue
201-536-5557
Friday $5 saketinis. Saturday 3 tapas for $7.

Gold Coast Fitness Center
151 Newark Avenue
201-432-7722
Join during these two days and receive two free months membership.

David Jewelers
175 Newark Avenue
201-860-9310
40% off Citizen
15 % off Timex watches
20% off silver jewelry

Gallerie Hudson
197 Newark Avenue
201-434-1010
20% off all gift items.

Beechwood Café
290 Grove Street
201-985-2811
20% off retail goods. Free dessert with any meal.

Marco & Pepe
289 Grove Street
1/2 priced bottles of wine.

[via JCList]

NEW DOJO JOINTS

2005-11-01T15:03:00.000-05:00

From Wikipedia:

The bagua (Chinese: 八卦; pinyin: bā guà; Wade-Giles: pa kua; literally "eight trigrams", Korean 한국어: 팔괘) is a fundamental philosophical concept in ancient China. It is an octagonal diagram with eight trigrams on each side. The concept of bagua is applied not only to Chinese Taoist thought and the I Ching, but is also used in other domains of Chinese culture, such as fengshui, martial arts, navigation, etc.

A new juice bar opened on Manila [Grove] last month. It's called Bagua, and their drinks are great, the staff [though clearly still learning the ropes] is very friendly, and yes, the joint is very feng shui.

Hamilton Park Cafe on Grove and Grand is history, and has been replaced by Taqueria, the latest incarnation of the short-lived but much-loved Taco Truck seen around City Hall last month. Their grand opening is today, and we wish Phil and Andrea the best of luck! It looks like Bubby's Burritos has some serious competition.

CURB APPEAL

2005-10-31T23:45:00.000-05:00

Time Capsule wants to play a game. Can you figure out where these funky stoops are located?

DOG PARADE

2005-10-30T19:31:00.000-05:00

Here's further proof that this town's going to the dogs. I'm bummed I missed it, but thankfully TimeBandit was there with his camera:

[via Time Capsule]

IT'S RAINING CATS & DOGS ON MY PARADE!

2005-10-28T16:37:00.000-04:00

Friends of Hamilton Park and Fetch-It Pet Supplies are sponsoring a Halloween Pet Costume & Parade at Hamilton Park tomorrow night. Be there, and don't forget your camera!