Author: Mackensie Alvarez

Repost: North Bergen cat survives arrow lodged through body, GoFundMe started for medical needs

On By Mackensie AlvarezIn Uncategorized

On Thursday morning Kelly Shannon went out to feed a few friendly neighborhood feral cats, just like she always does before work every day. Imagine her horror and surprise when she found one of her favorites, a sweet, gentle male named Sparky, wounded with an arrow.
Originally posted by Maria Musings.
In fact, the arrow was still protruding from his body, and it was evident that the person who shot Sparky did so while he was facing the shooter. The arrow struck him in the left shoulder area, and the tip exited his left flank, leaving the shaft embedded in his body.
Enlisting the aid of a kind neighbor, Kelly was able to get him in a travel crate and immediately took him to her veterinarian. She remarked to me on the phone this morning while I was gathering facts for this blog, that he remained sweet, gentle, easy to handle and trusting, despite being scared and in pain.
Sparky is currently in the care of The Animal Clinic of Bayonne and we are pleased to report that the arrow did not pierce vital organs and right now his prognosis is fair. Sparky will also be neutered, given all of his vaccinations, and tested for FeLV/FIV while he is recovering from his wounds. Kelly would love to get this sweet boy a home. He deserves to have a loving, forever home after this ordeal.

A GoFundMe fundraiser has been set up for Sparky’s care, and updates will be posted on the fundraiser, along with bills, so everyone can follow his treatment and recovery. GoFundMe donations will be directed to Kelly’s paypal. All funds will be accounted for in a quick and transparent manner. If Sparky’s financial needs are completely met before reaching “goal” – the fundraiser will be stopped. All funds will be for Sparky’s veterinary care (surgical recovery and standard treatment, including labs, medications and imaging, neutering, vaccinations, diagnostic testing) and efforts to find him a good home.

GoFundMe – Help for Sparky – shot by arrow!
If you would like to help with Sparky’s veterinary care directly, you may contact the clinic to make a payment over the phone, or send a payment by mail. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE CLINIC FOR UPDATES! They have agreed to take calls for payments and are aware that Sparky’s story is on social media. Updates will be routinely posted on Kelly’s profile, this blog, and Sparky’s fundraiser. Help is appreciated, but keep in mind this is an animal hospital and a place of business. We don’t wish to cause any disruption to their daily routine.
The Animal Clinic of Bayonne
926 Broadway
Bayonne, New Jersey
(201) 437-6666

ACCT. INFO – “SPARKY SHANNON”

Below are photos taken yesterday at The Animal Clinic of Bayonne while Sparky was being initially examined.

THIS INCIDENT IS UNDER INVESTIGATION!

We wish Sparky well and hope that his recovery is swift and complete. We also hope that efforts to find him a good home will have a positive outcome. We hope that the person who shot him is found and brought to justice. Please share Sparky’s story, he matters.
Originally posted by Maria Musings.
UPDATE FOR SPARKY from Kelly Shannon on Sunday 1/15/17:
Sparky is doing as well as can be expected today. He had to be sedated so his drains could be cleaned. The drains are still in. Everyone at The Animal Clinic of Bayonne is taking good care of him!

Parks and Recreation Commissioner announces field renovation via ‘LiveStream’

On By Mackensie AlvarezIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

“Our next big project is actually going be our 76th Street Little League Field,” says Parks and Recreation Commissioner Hugo Cabrera during his Live Stream. “It’s going to be beautiful and we plan to start in the next two months.”

The department plans on installing state of the art astroturf, new lighting, batting cages, and a press box.

“As you can see we just finished doing the track [around Ascoleselse Field] and we’re going to have it for years to come so the children of North Bergen can truly enjoy the field.”

Parks and Public Property Commissioner Cabrera was elected in 1999. He currently serves as the secretary for the North Bergen Board of Education. Hugo’s department manages North Bergen’s fields, grounds and buildings as well as the Recreation program.

During the live stream the Commissioner announced soccer registration which begins January 17th.

Recreation Center: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Braddock Park Soccer Field: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Townhall: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

#Community #Sports

Parks and Recreation Commissioner announces field renovation via 'LiveStream'

On By Mackensie AlvarezIn Uncategorized

“Our next big project is actually going be our 76th Street Little League Field,” says Parks and Recreation Commissioner Hugo Cabrera during his Live Stream. “It’s going to be beautiful and we plan to start in the next two months.”

The department plans on installing state of the art astroturf, new lighting, batting cages, and a press box.

“As you can see we just finished doing the track [around Ascoleselse Field] and we’re going to have it for years to come so the children of North Bergen can truly enjoy the field.”

Parks and Public Property Commissioner Cabrera was elected in 1999. He currently serves as the secretary for the North Bergen Board of Education. Hugo’s department manages North Bergen’s fields, grounds and buildings as well as the Recreation program.

During the live stream the Commissioner announced soccer registration which begins January 17th.

Recreation Center: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Braddock Park Soccer Field: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Townhall: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

HudPost's first Annual Power List of North Bergen

On By Mackensie AlvarezIn Uncategorized

1. Nicholas Sacco, Senator & Mayor

It comes as no surprise that Senator/Mayor Nicholas Sacco comes in as #1 on the HudPost Power Ranking list. Starting his public career as an educator and elected to the board of commissioners in the late 1980s, the 70 year old is the longest serving Mayor in North Bergen history.

While it’s clear that his Senate seat is quite secure – his mayoral title will be contested by the Wainstein/Marrero team, but that is two years away.

2. Anthony Vainieri, Freeholder

Business owner and Sacco’s Chief of Staff/Legislative aide was elected to the Board of Chosen Freeholders in 2014, when former Freeholder Thomas Liggio announced his retirement. No word if he will have an opponent in his upcoming re-election race. He confirmed his intent to run by announcing a fundraiser with Governor hopeful, Phil Murphy, for February 3rd. Vainieri received 5,108 votes in his first election and stands a good chance of being reelected.

The Freeholder was just elected by his peers to become the new Chairman of the Board of Freeholders. Vainieri is also the Chairman of the Board of Adjustments.

3. Robert Dowd, Police Chief

In 2016 Chief “Bob” Dowd was invited to the White House to meet with the members of the President’s senior staff to discuss aspects of the President’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing. Dowd became President of the Hudson County Chiefs of Police Association. The association offers consultation to policymakers and the County Prosecutor on issues that affect the quality of life for Hudson County citizens.

Dowd was designated an Accredited Chief Executive, Chief of Police, Advanced by the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police. This is the highest level of accreditation a police chief can hold in NJ, and currently Dowd is the only Chief of Police in Hudson County to hold this accredited status.

4. Paul Swinbiski President of Vision Media

Paul is the owner of Vision Media and brings over 25 years of experience in political arena. The company’s clients include US Congressman Albio Sires, County Executive Tom Degise, and every department of the North Bergen township.

Vision Media continues to dominate the public relations market for most municipalities in Hudson County.

The company was recently awarded for two political ads and is responsible for the viral “I be from North Bergen, son!” campaign.

5. Phil Swinbiski & Juan Pablo Escobar, Township Spokesmen

Son of Paul Swibinski, Phil is the spokesperson for the town and Vice President of Vision Media. He is the go-to person for public relations crises.

Adding Army National Guardsman and North Bergen HS Alumni, Juan Escobar, gives the company access to the changing demographics of the town.

6. Julio Marenco, Commissioner

He’s North Bergen’s newest and youngest commissioner, giving the board of commissioners a 3:2 ratio of Latinos. Marenco served as Sacco’s intern before becoming President of the Board of Education. He replaced the first woman commissioner, Theresa Ferrera, and became the youngest commissioner in North Bergen history in 2015.

Marenco also serves as a member of the New Jersey state parole board.

He is the “hip” commissioner who regularly uses Facebook to speak to his constituents and even advised his followers to “Netflix and chill” during a snowstorm.

7. John Heinis, Political Correspondent

Former reporter for the Jersey Journal & HudsonCountyTV.com, who left to start his own media company, Hudson County View. Heinis has proven to be a reputable and respected source of North Bergen news.

8. Larry Wainstein, Business Owner

You’ve probably received a letter, call, or knock on the door from, millionaire business owner, Larry Wainstein. He’s seen as the Mayor’s arch-enemy and came closest to dethroning the incumbent.

Although, Wainstein lost in 2015, recieving 4,900 votes, he continues to keep his office open on Kennedy Boulevard. Teaming up with Marrero has been seen as a reinforcement strategy, before challenging Mayor Sacco again.

9. Henry Marrero, Police Sgt.

Once seen as the Mayor’s right hand man turned independent, Marrero unsuccessfully ran against Sacco backed candidate, Freeholder Anthony Vainieri, receiving 1,062 votes.

He used the support from his Freeholder’s election to run for commissioner, branding himself as the ethical alternative to Sacco and Wainstein.

He received 589 votes in election but now has been seen attending multiple parades and political gatherings with Wainstein. No confirmation if he will seek the Freeholder’s seat again or work with Larry for the 2019 race.

10. Denis Jaslow, Community Organizer

Creator and administrator of “North Bergen Now, Then, & Memories….” Facebook page that has over 9,400+ followers. Jaslow has created a platform for North Bergen residents, old and new, to come together and share love for their town.

Honorable Mention: Allen Pascual, Commissioner. Hugo Cabrera, Commissioner. Edgar Santillan, Political Operative. Dr. George Solter, Superintendent of Schools.

HudPost’s first Annual Power List of North Bergen

On By Mackensie AlvarezIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

1. Nicholas Sacco, Senator & Mayor

It comes as no surprise that Senator/Mayor Nicholas Sacco comes in as #1 on the HudPost Power Ranking list. Starting his public career as an educator and elected to the board of commissioners in the late 1980s, the 70 year old is the longest serving Mayor in North Bergen history.

While it’s clear that his Senate seat is quite secure – his mayoral title will be contested by the Wainstein/Marrero team, but that is two years away.

2. Anthony Vainieri, Freeholder

Business owner and Sacco’s Chief of Staff/Legislative aide was elected to the Board of Chosen Freeholders in 2014, when former Freeholder Thomas Liggio announced his retirement. No word if he will have an opponent in his upcoming re-election race. He confirmed his intent to run by announcing a fundraiser with Governor hopeful, Phil Murphy, for February 3rd. Vainieri received 5,108 votes in his first election and stands a good chance of being reelected.

The Freeholder was just elected by his peers to become the new Chairman of the Board of Freeholders. Vainieri is also the Chairman of the Board of Adjustments.

3. Robert Dowd, Police Chief

In 2016 Chief “Bob” Dowd was invited to the White House to meet with the members of the President’s senior staff to discuss aspects of the President’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing. Dowd became President of the Hudson County Chiefs of Police Association. The association offers consultation to policymakers and the County Prosecutor on issues that affect the quality of life for Hudson County citizens.

Dowd was designated an Accredited Chief Executive, Chief of Police, Advanced by the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police. This is the highest level of accreditation a police chief can hold in NJ, and currently Dowd is the only Chief of Police in Hudson County to hold this accredited status.

4. Paul Swinbiski President of Vision Media

Paul is the owner of Vision Media and brings over 25 years of experience in political arena. The company’s clients include US Congressman Albio Sires, County Executive Tom Degise, and every department of the North Bergen township.

Vision Media continues to dominate the public relations market for most municipalities in Hudson County.

The company was recently awarded for two political ads and is responsible for the viral “I be from North Bergen, son!” campaign.

5. Phil Swinbiski & Juan Pablo Escobar, Township Spokesmen

Son of Paul Swibinski, Phil is the spokesperson for the town and Vice President of Vision Media. He is the go-to person for public relations crises.

Adding Army National Guardsman and North Bergen HS Alumni, Juan Escobar, gives the company access to the changing demographics of the town.

6. Julio Marenco, Commissioner

He’s North Bergen’s newest and youngest commissioner, giving the board of commissioners a 3:2 ratio of Latinos. Marenco served as Sacco’s intern before becoming President of the Board of Education. He replaced the first woman commissioner, Theresa Ferrera, and became the youngest commissioner in North Bergen history in 2015.

Marenco also serves as a member of the New Jersey state parole board.

He is the “hip” commissioner who regularly uses Facebook to speak to his constituents and even advised his followers to “Netflix and chill” during a snowstorm.

7. John Heinis, Political Correspondent

Former reporter for the Jersey Journal & HudsonCountyTV.com, who left to start his own media company, Hudson County View. Heinis has proven to be a reputable and respected source of North Bergen news.

8. Larry Wainstein, Business Owner

You’ve probably received a letter, call, or knock on the door from, millionaire business owner, Larry Wainstein. He’s seen as the Mayor’s arch-enemy and came closest to dethroning the incumbent.

Although, Wainstein lost in 2015, recieving 4,900 votes, he continues to keep his office open on Kennedy Boulevard. Teaming up with Marrero has been seen as a reinforcement strategy, before challenging Mayor Sacco again.

9. Henry Marrero, Police Sgt.

Once seen as the Mayor’s right hand man turned independent, Marrero unsuccessfully ran against Sacco backed candidate, Freeholder Anthony Vainieri, receiving 1,062 votes.

He used the support from his Freeholder’s election to run for commissioner, branding himself as the ethical alternative to Sacco and Wainstein.

He received 589 votes in election but now has been seen attending multiple parades and political gatherings with Wainstein. No confirmation if he will seek the Freeholder’s seat again or work with Larry for the 2019 race.

10. Denis Jaslow, Community Organizer

Creator and administrator of “North Bergen Now, Then, & Memories….” Facebook page that has over 9,400+ followers. Jaslow has created a platform for North Bergen residents, old and new, to come together and share love for their town.

Honorable Mention: Allen Pascual, Commissioner. Hugo Cabrera, Commissioner. Edgar Santillan, Political Operative. Dr. George Solter, Superintendent of Schools.

#Politics

North Bergen High cancels 070 Shake's performance citing 'bad influence'

On By Mackensie AlvarezIn Uncategorized

On December 16th, North Bergen artist, 070 Shake, tweeted about her North Bergen High School performance being canceled by the staff, Vice Principal Ms. Patricia Brando, and North Bergen Chief of Police Robert Dowd.

(250 retweet, 600 likes)

“Factually incorrect. I had no conversations whatsoever with anyone about her or any performance. She is mistaken that I was involved,” explains North Bergen Chief of Police Robert Dowd. “We work as a resource for the school system. And any decisions they make…we would stand by and support as they always have the entire school populations best interest as their main concern.”

HudPost spoke with Shake’s manager, Julz Goddard, better known as “YesJulz”, and she says, “The whole situation is truly unfortunate. Shake was really looking forward to performing at her high school pep rally.”

“Proud was the first song she ever wrote and it was inspired by the doubt that the adults in her life, mainly teachers, always expressed in her and her abilities as an artist. She told me she had a vision when she made the song, of her singing it at the school once it got big, as a way to inspire the students who may feel that they too, will never make anyone proud.”

“The next morning, an hour before the performance was to take place, she got notified that a few people at the school viewed her as a ‘bad influence’ and decided to not have her perform. We were all really bummed.”

‘”The North Bergen Board of Education was never approached or consulted about a concert by 070 Shake. The concert could not occur because it was not an event approved by the Board,” says Dr. George Solter, Superintendent of Schools. “As always the entire North Bergen School District along with the Board of Education have the best interests of our children in mind and will continue to work to provide them with the best education possible,”

Shake has since taken down the tweet but left others of the incident.

North Bergen High cancels 070 Shake’s performance citing ‘bad influence’

On By Mackensie AlvarezIn North Bergen Arts & EntertainmentLeave a comment

On December 16th, North Bergen artist, 070 Shake, tweeted about her North Bergen High School performance being canceled by the staff, Vice Principal Ms. Patricia Brando, and North Bergen Chief of Police Robert Dowd.

(250 retweet, 600 likes)

“Factually incorrect. I had no conversations whatsoever with anyone about her or any performance. She is mistaken that I was involved,” explains North Bergen Chief of Police Robert Dowd. “We work as a resource for the school system. And any decisions they make…we would stand by and support as they always have the entire school populations best interest as their main concern.”

HudPost spoke with Shake’s manager, Julz Goddard, better known as “YesJulz”, and she says, “The whole situation is truly unfortunate. Shake was really looking forward to performing at her high school pep rally.”

“Proud was the first song she ever wrote and it was inspired by the doubt that the adults in her life, mainly teachers, always expressed in her and her abilities as an artist. She told me she had a vision when she made the song, of her singing it at the school once it got big, as a way to inspire the students who may feel that they too, will never make anyone proud.”

“The next morning, an hour before the performance was to take place, she got notified that a few people at the school viewed her as a ‘bad influence’ and decided to not have her perform. We were all really bummed.”

‘”The North Bergen Board of Education was never approached or consulted about a concert by 070 Shake. The concert could not occur because it was not an event approved by the Board,” says Dr. George Solter, Superintendent of Schools. “As always the entire North Bergen School District along with the Board of Education have the best interests of our children in mind and will continue to work to provide them with the best education possible,”

Shake has since taken down the tweet but left others of the incident.

#ArtsEntertainment

North Bergen’s Anthony Vainieri elected as chairman of Hudson County Freeholders

On By Mackensie AlvarezIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

On January 5th, 2017 Hudson County Freeholder Anthony Vainieri was elected as chairman of the board.

Freeholder Bill O’Dea nominated Vainieri during a motion where the board had a bit of fun confirming the appointment. Freeholder Maldonando responded “Absolutely”, Freeholder Rodriguez voted “definitely” and Freeholder Romano joked “I’m thinking…” before giving Vainieri a standing ovation.

“I want to thank all of them for their support and confidence in me as we work together to benefit all of Hudson County. Special thanks to Mayor Nick Sacco for all his support and administrating the oath of office,” says Freeholder Vainieri. “Hudson County should be a model throughout the state, by working together as freeholders and with the county executive, we all achieve all that the residents need and look forward to making a better community for all of us.”

State Senator and North Bergen Mayor Nicholas Sacco says “I would like to congratulate Freeholder Anthony Vainieri as he was sworn in as Chairperson of the Hudson County Board of Chosen Freeholders.”

Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop was in attendance along with County Executive Tom Degise. Also in attendance North Bergen Chief of Police Robert Dowd, Commissioners Allen Pascual, Hugo Cabrera, and Julio Marenco. and Hudson County Sheriff Frank X. Schillari.

#Politics

North Bergen's Anthony Vainieri elected as chairman of Hudson County Freeholders

On By Mackensie AlvarezIn Uncategorized

On January 5th, 2017 Hudson County Freeholder Anthony Vainieri was elected as chairman of the board.

Freeholder Bill O’Dea nominated Vainieri during a motion where the board had a bit of fun confirming the appointment. Freeholder Maldonando responded “Absolutely”, Freeholder Rodriguez voted “definitely” and Freeholder Romano joked “I’m thinking…” before giving Vainieri a standing ovation.

“I want to thank all of them for their support and confidence in me as we work together to benefit all of Hudson County. Special thanks to Mayor Nick Sacco for all his support and administrating the oath of office,” says Freeholder Vainieri. “Hudson County should be a model throughout the state, by working together as freeholders and with the county executive, we all achieve all that the residents need and look forward to making a better community for all of us.”

State Senator and North Bergen Mayor Nicholas Sacco says “I would like to congratulate Freeholder Anthony Vainieri as he was sworn in as Chairperson of the Hudson County Board of Chosen Freeholders.”

Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop was in attendance along with County Executive Tom Degise. Also in attendance North Bergen Chief of Police Robert Dowd, Commissioners Allen Pascual, Hugo Cabrera, and Julio Marenco. and Hudson County Sheriff Frank X. Schillari.

North Bergen PD celebrates the 27th anniversary of the department’s first female Officer

On By Mackensie AlvarezIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

27 years ago today the North Bergen Police Department hired our first female Police Officer in department history. Bernadette Paul-Gonyou was sworn as a North Bergen Police Officer and rose to the rank of Lieutenant before her retirement. Lt. Paul-Gonyou became the first female Sergeant and Lieutenant in department history as well.

Lt. Paul-Gonyou paved the way for many NBPD females who came after her. Two other females, Christine Dall-Klag and Cynthia Montero have also reached the rank of Lieutenant since. The NBPD currently has (15) female Officers in the rank and file which equates to (12.5%) of our force. We aim to increase that number during every recruiting period.

Originally posted on the North Bergen Police Department official Facebook page.

#PoliceFireEMT #Community