Author: Mackensie Alvarez

HudPost's 3rd Annual Power List

On By Mackensie AlvarezIn Uncategorized

HudPost’s 2019 North Bergen Power List focuses on the pending transition of power within the North Bergen political machine. “Power” is defined by influence, popularity, and leverage.

This is HudPost’s third annual North Bergen Power List.

1. Nicholas Sacco, Senator & Mayor

What can be written about Sacco that already hasn’t? He’ll more than likely keep his mayoral seat after the votes are counted in May. After that, it’s his choice as to when he will retire- if ever.

2. Anthony Vainieri, Hudson County Freeholder

Right Hand man to Sacco – Vainieri continues to build on the brand as the logical next-of-kin to the throne.

As a Freeholder, Vainieri continues to bring value to North Bergen with park renovations, annual festivities, national landmarks, and coordinating the purchase of a new high school.

3. Julio Marenco, Commissioner

Admittedly, our very own Eva Deras’s favorite public figure, Julio Marenco continues to advocate for his downtown neighborhood and brings a youthful, diverse outlook to the local government.

While Julio has not been willing to share future ambitions- we suspect that his future is bright.

4. North Bergen Federation of Teachers

The teachers union proved they could have a public debate without being hijacked with political rhetoric.

With over 600 teachers represented by the Teachers’ Union – their influence is fundamental in any changes made in North Bergen.

5. Robert Dowd, North Bergen Police Chief

High-profile crime in the area rarely goes unsolved; whether it’s a hit-and-run, street shootings, or a stolen vehicle.

Chief Dowd represents a highly diverse force of over 120 officers and his leadership of the department has lead to many in & out-of-town accomplishments.

6. Phil Swibinski, Township Spokesmen/VP of Vision Media

Phil Swibinski has earned his own spot on our list. New to fatherhood, Swibinski steps into a bigger role in business and personal life. Paul Swibinski (father to Phil), who started Vision Media over 30 years ago, retired and regularly spends time in his Florida home.

Phil is the barrier between the public and Sacco over any outrage. He has held his own against the various hit-pieces from the iTeam, and will have plenty of work during the upcoming election.

7. Local, independent Media; HudPost (of course), Hudson County View, Talk on the Hudson

First it was print, then TV, but now it’s the age of the internet. These companies bring value to each other and in return to its viewers.

Whether its ‘Talk on the Hudson’ getting both state Senators Stack and Sacco on the record on their stance on marijuana or ‘Hudson County View’ getting a heated exchange between Wainstein/Vainieri over a development in the area- the “larger local” medias such as Jersey Journal or News 12 can’t compete with the relevant content, or simply ignore “NoHu” issues.

HudPost exclusively focuses on North Bergen (with a pinch of Guttenberg) so you can expect relevant and reliable content in 2019.

8. Aimee Focaraccio, Community Organizer

Aimee has a heart of gold and it shows in her work. Focaraccio continues to build the NB CARES program while becoming a leader within the Young Democrats of Hudson County party.

During our interview with her earlier this year, she has not ruled out a career in politics, but her current commitment is to helping families in need.

9. John Bender, Committee-person

Although a committee seat only represents a small portion of the town, Bender has used his political muscle to be the front of the anti-Larry effort.

He once ran a protest in front of Wainstein’s North Bergen home back in 2015.

Now he is addressing the “litter-ture issue” caused by elections with a clever widespread ’NO LARRY LITERATURE ACCEPTED’ window sign campaign. You’ll be sure to see (and hear) John at any anti-Larry event this year.

10. Larry Wainstein, Business Owner & 2019 Mayoral Candidate

So 2019 is finally here and everything Wainstein has been working for is coming to a conclusion; does his years of “community organizing,” and Sacco bashing win him a seat? Or will history repeat itself with another 3 to 1 or 2 to 1 loss.

Throughout the years Wainstein has fought against building a new Kindergarten school and acquiring High Tech High School. He has also fought against several residential buildings such as the projects on 56th and Kennedy, 48th and Tonnelle, and 78th and Bergenline Ave.

While it’s clear what he is against – he hasn’t done a great job of telling us what he is for.

He’ll be receiving help from West New York Mayor Roque and possibly some South Jersey politicians most of our readers probably wouldn’t recognize. He just makes our list but another loss in May definitely kicks him off.

Honorable Mentions;

  • NB BOE Superintendent Dr. George Solter

  • Retired Lt. Henry Marrero

  • Commissioner Hugo Cabrera

  • North Bergen…Now, Then, & Memories Administer Denis Jaslow

  • Esq. Mario Blanch

HudPost’s 3rd Annual Power List

On By Mackensie AlvarezIn PoliticsLeave a comment

HudPost’s 2019 North Bergen Power List focuses on the pending transition of power within the North Bergen political machine. “Power” is defined by influence, popularity, and leverage.

This is HudPost’s third annual North Bergen Power List.

1. Nicholas Sacco, Senator & Mayor

What can be written about Sacco that already hasn’t? He’ll more than likely keep his mayoral seat after the votes are counted in May. After that, it’s his choice as to when he will retire- if ever.

2. Anthony Vainieri, Hudson County Freeholder

Right Hand man to Sacco – Vainieri continues to build on the brand as the logical next-of-kin to the throne.

As a Freeholder, Vainieri continues to bring value to North Bergen with park renovations, annual festivities, national landmarks, and coordinating the purchase of a new high school.

3. Julio Marenco, Commissioner

Admittedly, our very own Eva Deras’s favorite public figure, Julio Marenco continues to advocate for his downtown neighborhood and brings a youthful, diverse outlook to the local government.

While Julio has not been willing to share future ambitions- we suspect that his future is bright.

4. North Bergen Federation of Teachers

The teachers union proved they could have a public debate without being hijacked with political rhetoric.

With over 600 teachers represented by the Teachers’ Union – their influence is fundamental in any changes made in North Bergen.

5. Robert Dowd, North Bergen Police Chief

High-profile crime in the area rarely goes unsolved; whether it’s a hit-and-run, street shootings, or a stolen vehicle.

Chief Dowd represents a highly diverse force of over 120 officers and his leadership of the department has lead to many in & out-of-town accomplishments.

6. Phil Swibinski, Township Spokesmen/VP of Vision Media

Phil Swibinski has earned his own spot on our list. New to fatherhood, Swibinski steps into a bigger role in business and personal life. Paul Swibinski (father to Phil), who started Vision Media over 30 years ago, retired and regularly spends time in his Florida home.

Phil is the barrier between the public and Sacco over any outrage. He has held his own against the various hit-pieces from the iTeam, and will have plenty of work during the upcoming election.

7. Local, independent Media; HudPost (of course), Hudson County View, Talk on the Hudson

First it was print, then TV, but now it’s the age of the internet. These companies bring value to each other and in return to its viewers.

Whether its ‘Talk on the Hudson’ getting both state Senators Stack and Sacco on the record on their stance on marijuana or ‘Hudson County View’ getting a heated exchange between Wainstein/Vainieri over a development in the area- the “larger local” medias such as Jersey Journal or News 12 can’t compete with the relevant content, or simply ignore “NoHu” issues.

HudPost exclusively focuses on North Bergen (with a pinch of Guttenberg) so you can expect relevant and reliable content in 2019.

8. Aimee Focaraccio, Community Organizer

Aimee has a heart of gold and it shows in her work. Focaraccio continues to build the NB CARES program while becoming a leader within the Young Democrats of Hudson County party.

During our interview with her earlier this year, she has not ruled out a career in politics, but her current commitment is to helping families in need.

9. John Bender, Committee-person

Although a committee seat only represents a small portion of the town, Bender has used his political muscle to be the front of the anti-Larry effort.

He once ran a protest in front of Wainstein’s North Bergen home back in 2015.

Now he is addressing the “litter-ture issue” caused by elections with a clever widespread ’NO LARRY LITERATURE ACCEPTED’ window sign campaign. You’ll be sure to see (and hear) John at any anti-Larry event this year.

10. Larry Wainstein, Business Owner & 2019 Mayoral Candidate

So 2019 is finally here and everything Wainstein has been working for is coming to a conclusion; does his years of “community organizing,” and Sacco bashing win him a seat? Or will history repeat itself with another 3 to 1 or 2 to 1 loss.

Throughout the years Wainstein has fought against building a new Kindergarten school and acquiring High Tech High School. He has also fought against several residential buildings such as the projects on 56th and Kennedy, 48th and Tonnelle, and 78th and Bergenline Ave.

While it’s clear what he is against – he hasn’t done a great job of telling us what he is for.

He’ll be receiving help from West New York Mayor Roque and possibly some South Jersey politicians most of our readers probably wouldn’t recognize. He just makes our list but another loss in May definitely kicks him off.

Honorable Mentions;

  • NB BOE Superintendent Dr. George Solter
  • Retired Lt. Henry Marrero
  • Commissioner Hugo Cabrera
  • North Bergen…Now, Then, & Memories Administer Denis Jaslow
  • Esq. Mario Blanch

#Politics

North Bergen: Top 10 Stories of 2018

On By Mackensie AlvarezIn Uncategorized

1. Ellen donates $50,000 to McKinley Elementary

Ellen DeGeneres saw a North Bergen school’s invitation — sent in the form of a video — to come to read to its students. Unable to come, she did McKinley School one better and arranged to have $50,000 sent its way.

2. RAV4 stolen, suspect turns himself in after video goes viral

3. 070 Shake is featured on Nas, Pusha T, and Kanye’s albums, makes national TV debut

Danielle Balbuena better known by her stage name 070 Shake, gained attention for her guest appearances and involvement with Kanye West on songs like “Ghost Town” and “Violent Crimes” from West’s album Ye, as well as appearing on Pusha T’s Daytona and Nas’ Nasir.

4. North Bergen family irate after historic grave sites destroyed

5. North Bergen is getting a new high school

North Bergen’s School Realignment Plan:

  • Purchase former High Tech High School building on Tonnelle Avenue to become North Bergen High School West Campus for grades 7-9, plus Culinary Arts and Expanded Career Technical Education for grades 9-12

  • Make renovations to NBHS West including new Auditorium Wing, new Turf Field and Student Walkway, new HVAC system and more

  • Current High School (NBHS East) to include grades 10-12 and new Business and Medical Arts programs and STEM Academy

  • Renovations to current NBHS East including Air Conditioning, Lighting Upgrades and Accessibility improvements Smaller class sizes in all Elementary Schools

6. Tyler Griffin performs on the premiere of The Four

Tyler “TyAlaxandar” Griffin crooned Jason Derulo’s “Talk Dirty To Me” on the show’s Jan. 4 debut episode. Griffin, a 24-year-old resident of the township, was also the mastermind behind the “I Be From North Bergen Son!” rap used in an ad for Mayor Nicholas Sacco’s 2011 reelection campaign.

7. 5-year-old passes away from the flu

The girl – identified as Nevaeh Hernandez – was a kindergartner at Lincoln Elementary School. Many parents at her school struggled Tuesday with the decision to bring their children to class amidst what has become one of the worst flu seasons on record.

8. Power plant coming to North Bergen

The $1.8 billion project will be located on 15 acres in an industrial section of North Bergen, near existing energy and utility infrastructure, the company said. It will use natural gas and combustion turbine technology to produce electricity equivalent to that needed to power 1.2 million homes.

9. Most expensive North Bergen family home sells for 1.2M

This 6-bedroom, 4400 square foot house sits high atop the Woodcliff section of North Bergen with unobstructed views of Manhattan. The price tag on this property makes it the most expensive family home in North Bergen.

10. James J. Braddock statue unveiled

A striking 10-foot statue of boxer James J. Braddock now stands proudly at a key intersection in the North Hudson park that bears his name. The 1,500 pound statue of the world heavyweight champion was unveiled at a celebratory ceremony on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2018

Honorable Mentions:

Victory Boyd releases first album under Jay-Z record label, makes national TV debut

North Bergen girl survives vicious Edgewater fire

Jerry Maietta gets his 300th win

Stop Work Order Issued After CBS2 Exposes Overturned Headstones At Weehawken Cemetery

On By Mackensie AlvarezIn Uncategorized

NORTH BERGEN, N.J. (CBSNewYork) – On Thursday, CBS2 showed you the Weehawken Cemetery in North Bergen – its management cutting down trees around graves, leaving headstones overturned in the process.

CBS2’s Ali Bauman demanded answers and Friday the state ordered the cemetery to stop working.

Less than 24 hours after CBS2’s Ali Bauman stood on a hill overlooking the dangerous mess left behind from clearing the trees, state inspectors were on the scene, declaring the landscape work illegal.

Headstones were overturned and under debris. Tree trunks were stacked unsecured on steep hills. Those were the conditions CBS2 brought to light after trees were cut down around several 100-year-old graves.

Read more at CBS2

North Bergen Residents Irate After Company Destroys Historic Headstones

On By Mackensie AlvarezIn Uncategorized

NORTH BERGEN, N.J. (CBSNewYork) — A family in New Jersey made a shocking discovery at a cemetery in North Bergen. They were trying to pay respects to several of their deceased relatives, but were outraged to find dozens of headstones damaged or overturned.

With headstones under tree trunks, overturned or dug up, the Weehawken Cemetery looks more like a construction site. Frank Ciappi says his family members’ graves were spared, but he was horrified when he stumbled on the distressing scene.

Read more at CBS2

Hidden Treasure Buried in North Bergen

On By Mackensie AlvarezIn Uncategorized

(Map does not represent actual location of treasure.)

Did you ever dream of finding a buried treasure? I’m sure if you did it probably was on a island, perhaps on a white sand Caribbean beach and you’d discovered the ideal pirate treasure chest which overflowed with gold coins, jewels, and gems. Sounds pretty sweet. However, what if you didn’t have to travel that far to make such a find?

North Bergen is known for many things but a forgotten treasure is usually not one of them. As a kid I remember heading into the dark “mushroom” tunnel on Durham Avenue near 70th Street with hopes of finding something old and forgotten. Today we knew those are old brewery tunnels from Rock Cellar Park, which I’d still like to go into and maybe find something lost to time. Nonetheless, there maybe a treasure buried in…well under the town with a value upwards of $750,000 dollars!

The fabled treasure can be found in the former village of Homestead. Homestead was centralized around present day Tonnelle Avenue, today it would be bound to the north by Paterson Plank Road (to Secaucus), the south by the North Bergen:Jersey City border, east by Paterson Plank Road (to Jersey City) and west by Penhorn Creek. Yet back in 1873 we can see in the above map only a small section just west of Schuetzen Park was developed, the rest remained farmland. Of those farms lived a man by the name of Hendrick Dempster. Not much is known about Dempster at this time except for that he passed away in 1873. The only other detail known about Dempster is that near the end of his life, he buried his life savings on his property in Homestead, a savings of $38,000 dollars worth of gold coins!

Dempster’s fortune today is worth upwards of $750,000 dollars, but don’t run and get your shovels just yet. The treasure has been sought after since the 1920s, and as of today still remains unfound. There are three times it was believed the treasure was within the grasp of a lucky treasure seeker. The first to pursue the treasure were two young boys in the early 1920s. The two boys were found on the property that once made up Dempster’s farm. The story goes they dug tunnels under the old Dempster farm for 10 days. In those 10 days they discovered a filled in passageway. Before any more explorations could be made they were asked to be removed by the property owner. The location of this tunnel was kept secret, and oddly enough, one thing that is still unknown today is the exact location of Dempster’s farm, that said the search would continue some 30 years later.

In the 1950s a treasure enthusiast named Edward Torski picked up where the two boys left off. Torksi had much better luck in some sense. Torksi struck a cache that seemed extremely promising. Unfortunately for him the cache found turned out not to be that of Dempster’s. Upon examination, documents revealed that the find was related to old auto parts manufacture that was once located along Tonnelle Avenue. The location of the find and name of the company were never made public.

The last time the treasure made news was in 1964. In ’64, The Jersey City Treasure Hunter’s Association claimed to be “close” to finding the treasure. The group was lead by former Jersey City Police patrolman Lou Cancro. Cancro and eleven other members searched the area for all kinds of lost treasure. During the clubs existence they made several finds: gold coins, gems, jewelry and so on. In North Bergen the club found fossilized footprints in Brewster’s Quarry. The club was active in the search for Hendrick Dempster’s treasure. Today there is no way of knowing if the club ever found the cache, but as of February 1964, they felt they were hot on Dempster’s trail.

Today the Homestead Section of North Bergen is unrecognizable from 1964, and completely unlike that of 1923 and even more so foreign from Dempster’s time. The idea that Dempster’s gold is still out there is very intriguing. With every new project that breaks ground in the Homestead neighborhood there exists a chance that Dempster’s treasure may be found. Sadly though, most of the maps from the 1850s, ’60s and ’70s turn up no evidence of Dempster owning any land or where his property was located, leading us to believe perhaps he rented a piece of property. Again, the Federal Census from the 1850s, ’60s & 70s also turn up no evidence of a Hendrick Dempster, or variation of the name. This could be North Bergen’s greatest mystery. A man which evidence of his existence is as lost to history as his treasure. But next time a building is taken down or a new project is about to begin, you may just find me with a metal detector search for Dempster’s Treasure.

Originally posted on The North Bergen Time Machine

Michael Maring is a history buff turned history teacher based out of North Bergen, NJ. He has lived in North Bergen his entire life and enjoys spreading the unique history about our town. His goal with North Bergen Time Machine is to spark interest in the history of North Bergen.