I’m sure many of you reading this are well aware of the proposed construction of a huge 30″ gas pipeline to be run through Jersey City to service New York City by Spectra Energy, a Texas-based company. Over the course of the year, many Jersey City residents have been unsure of the exact route the line will take through our city. As you can see from the photo above, the gas pipeline runs right next to the western border of The Village.

Now look at this photo…

The devastation in this photo was caused when a similar gas line exploded in Virginia in 2008. The cause of the explosion was determined to be corrosion.

What can you do?

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) will be holding a public meeting at Ferris High School to hear from you.

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Ferris High School
35 Colgate Street
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Attend this meeting! Voice your opposition!

Spectra Energy will make their presentation at 6:00 PM,
public comments will be from 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

The following is Councilman Steven Fulop’s email alert from last week which includes a very good sample letter you can send if you are unable to attend. See below for detailed information.

Detailed instructions on how to leave your eComment on the FERC website:

Additional Information:

August 4, 2010 Meeting Notification from the City website

Jersey City Independent article

Mayor Healy Letter

Maps of the proposed pipeline

JCList Forum Thread

The Village Neighborhood Association
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Time: 7:30 pm
Location: PS #5 (Please see the map below)

General Meeting Information:

The Village Neighborhood Association holds their monthly meeting on the second Tuesday of the month in the Auditorium of the Dr. Michael Conti Public School (PS #5). Meetings begin at 7:30pm and are open to the public. Please use the school’s main entrance located on Merseles Street.

AGENDA

7:30 pm – 7:45 pm
Introductions
Rob Crow
President, The Village Neighborhood Association

7:45 pm – 8:00 pm
Louis Calamito Street Dedication
A brief discussion of Louis Calamito and the proposal to dedicate Monmouth Street between 4th and 5th Streets in his honor.

8:00 pm – 8:15 pm
Village Tree Initative
Ben Dorner

Ben will share with the group the Village Tree Project.

8:15 pm – 8:20 pm
Announcing: The Village Helpers
Rob Crow
The Village Neighborhood Association (VNA) is proud to announce the formation of a new neighborhood group dedicated to children of all ages who want to get involved in their community.

8:20 pm – 8:30 pm
Updates: The Village Park/The Village Weekend/Art & Flea/Walking Tour/Newark Avenue
Rob Crow

8:30 pm – 8:40 pm
VNA Board Elections  2010 – 2011: Open Floor for Nominations

8:40 pm
Coffee and Chat With Your Neighbors

Coffee donated by Starbucks!

Finding the school:

The Village Neighborhood Association (VNA) is proud to announce the formation of a new neighborhood group dedicated to children of all ages who want to get involved in their community.

The group is called The Village Helpers. The name and idea of the group was thought of by my nine-year-old daughter, Adriana. She has attended several VNA meetings over the past few years and conceived the idea to form a group “just for kids”.

With the guidance and support of the VNA, the primary goal of The Village Helpers is for children to bond with other children in their neighborhood through community involvement – to demonstrate to children of all ages that this is their neighborhood, their future, and their opportunity to shape the world.

As the name implies, the focus of the group is to make The Village a better place to live, although children from any neighborhood are more than welcome to join.

To sign up and get in on the fun, click HERE

Stop by and check out some of the best music Jersey City has to offer! Click HERE for full details about The Village Art & Flea Market.

11:00 am — Melinda Davis
www.myspace.com/melindajdavis

11:45 am — Catherine from Bern and the Brights
www.myspace.com/bgroove

12:40 pm — Bongo Surf
www.myspace.com/bongosurf

1:35 pm — Crosstown Country All Stars
www.crosstowncountryallstars.com

2:30 pm — Manouche Bag
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Manouche-Bag/109586779070104?ref=sgm

3:30 pm — Kelly Saint Patrick
www.myspace.com/kellystpatrick

4:20 pm — David W Jacobsen
www.sonicbids.com/davidwj

5:15 pm — The Porchistas
www.myspace.com/theribbonboys

OK, I have to say it — Art Garfunkel and the Red Hot Chili Peppers WILL NOT be performing!

Your generous contributions help to make this event possible. The VNA recognizes the important role businesses play in our community, and we wish to assist in your success through promotion and awareness.

For your kind contribution, the VNA will:

Feature your promotional materials at our sponsors’ table during the event.

Post your logo and website link on this site (see sidebar to the right) for the remainder of 2010. The VNA website received more than 24,500 impressions over the past 18 months. The VNA website is a go-to source of information for residents on current events and neighborhood history.

Print your logo on all promotional materials.

Suggested Contributions

TITLE SPONSOR—$2,500
PRESENTING SPONSOR—$250
SUPPORTING SPONSOR—$100
FESTIVAL PATRON—$75

Commitment deadline: May 5, 2010

Step 1: Click HERE to contact the VNA

Step 2: Fill out the contact form. You will receive an email reply with further instructions.

Please make all checks out to THE VILLAGE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION, Attn: Artist & Flea Sponsor and send to The Village Neighborhood Association at the following address:

Damian O’Leary
Treasurer, The Village Neighborhood Association
131 Brunswick Street, Apt 2L
Jersey City, NJ 07302

NOTE:
It is the sponsor’s responsibility to provide logos and all materials for all promotional items.

In the event of extreme adverse weather conditions, the rain date for the Art & Flea Market is scheduled for Sunday, May 16. In the unlikely occurrence of event cancellation, all donations are non-refundable. Regardless, the Village Neighborhood Association will continue to promote your business in all our advertising literature related to promoting the event, and include your business logo on the www.jcvillage.org for the remainder of 2010.

For additional information, email: rob.crow@jcvillage.org

The VNA would like to convey our deepest  appreciation to 4th Street Arts for their continued support of The Village neighborhood. The VNA would also like to thank our growing list of local businesses who made this year’s Village Weekend possible. Please follow this link to see how you too can support the VNA.

So what is The Village Weekend?

Saturday, May 15, 2010 — The 2nd Annual Village Art & Flea Market.

Click HERE to read the press release.

Last year, the Village Art & Flea drew more than 2,000 locals who shopped an amazing array of arts and crafts made by local artisans and fine artists, as well as fabulous vintage goods and bric-a-brac sold by Village residents. This year promises to be just as big with all the above as well as live music by up-and-coming bands, delectable food from area restaurants, games for kids, raffles, and so much more. This event raises awareness for the VNA and encourages the community to believe in and befriend the people around them. It also raises awareness for local talent while encouraging sales and awareness for area businesses.

Sunday, May 16, 2010 — The Italian Village Historical Walking Tour

Click HERE for all the details and map

Presented in partnership with The Jersey City Landmarks Conservancy, and hosted by historian Joshua Parkhurst, The Village Neighborhood Association welcomes you to “Walk in Their Footsteps”. Joshua will take us step-by-step through the historic past of The Italian Village.

Take the tour and receive a coupon from Madame Claude Cafe for a FREE Crepe!

Sunday, May 16, 2009
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm – Guided walking tour with Joshua Parkhurst.
The tour begins at 12:00 pm at Madame Claude Cafe located on the corner of Brunswick and Fourth Streets.

Presented in partnership with The Jersey City Landmarks Conservancy, and hosted by historian Joshua Parkhurst, The Village Neighborhood Association welcomes you to “Walk in Their Footsteps”. Joshua will take us step-by-step through the historic past of The Italian Village.

Take the tour and receive a coupon from Madame Claude Cafe for a FREE Crepe!

Please see the map below for the route we’ll take through The Village.

Date: Saturday, May 15, 2010
Time: 11:00 am –  6:00 pm
Location: Fourth Street @ Newark Avenue

Believe…
In your community.
In the talent of local artists and musicians.
In the benefit of supporting local businesses.
In the quality of local artisans.
In Jersey City.

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On Saturday, May 15th The Village Neighborhood Association, with the support of 4th Street Arts, is hosting The 2nd Annual Village Art & Flea Market. Last year, more than 2,000 people came out to shop and mingle…and we expect even more this time around! Taking place at the crossroads of 4th Street, Newark Avenue and Brunswick Street, the event will feature an array of local artists’ works, the finest up-and-coming bands New Jersey has to offer, and delicious food from local vendors.

Thinking of joining in the fun? Follow the links below.

ARTISTS AND FLEA VENDORS
MUSICIANS AND BANDS
FOOD VENDORS
EVENT SPONSORS

ARTISTS AND FLEA VENDORS

This event is open to local artists and crafters who would like to showcase and sell their work. Reserve your spot in the ARTIST’S SPACE!

Residents are invited to sell their second-hand treasures. Reserve your spot now!

Commitment deadline: May 5, 2010

Participation fee: $10 (Fee covers your temporary vending permit.)
Tables & Chairs: 6′ tables and folding chairs are available for additional fees of $10 and $3, respectively. Indicate your needs on the contact form.

Step 1: Click HERE to contact the VNA

Step 2: Fill out the contact form. You will receive an email reply with further instructions.

Make all checks out to THE VILLAGE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION, Attn: Artist & Flea Participation and send to The Village Neighborhood Association at the following address:

Damian O’Leary
Treasurer, Village Neighborhood Association
131 Brunswick Street, Apt 2L
Jersey City, NJ 07302

NOTE:
For artists, the earlier you get in, the more likely your name will be included in the press release and promo materials. It is the artist/flea patrons’ responsibility to supply any additional materials that may be needed for display (e.g. display stands for wares, specialty hooks for artwork, etc.)

In the event of extreme adverse weather conditions, the rain date for the Art & Flea Market is scheduled for Sunday, May 16. In the unlikely occurrence of event cancelation, the $10 participation fee will be refunded. Unfortunately, table and chairs rental fees are non-refundable.

For additional information, contact: ben.dorner@jcvillage.org

MUSICIANS AND BANDS

Get the opportunity to perform for hundreds of local residents in a comfortable, fun, celebratory environment. We encourage you to bring CDs to sell at the event. As a performer, you will receive a hotlink from our jcvillage.org to your myspace or personal Web site.

Equipment to be provided at the event: PA System and Microphones

Commitment deadline: May 5, 2010

For additional details or to book your performance for the event, email:
john.allen@jcvillage.org

NOTE:
The earlier you commit to the event, the more likely your name will be included in the press release and promo materials

FOOD VENDOR

Join The Village Art & Flea Market excitement by selling your food and/or beverages at the event. Give your establishment amazing exposure and share your fare among hundreds of attendees.

Commitment deadline: May 5, 2010

Participation fee: $100
Tables & Chairs: 6′ tables and two folding chairs are available for additional fees of $10 and $3, respectively. Indicate your needs on the submission form and include the fee with your payment.

Step 1: Click HERE to contact the VNA

Step 2: Fill out the contact form. You will receive an email reply with further instructions.

Please make all checks out to THE VILLAGE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION, Attn: Artist & Flea Participation and send to The Village Neighborhood Association at the following address:

Damian O’Leary
Treasurer, The Village Neighborhood Association
131 Brunswick Street, Apt 2L
Jersey City, NJ 07302

NOTE:
Vendor is responsible to provide a valid health certificate. File with the Jersey City Department of Health for a one-day health certificate. Vendor must supply own water and electricity. Set-up is at 10 am and breakdown is after 6 pm. Vendor must remove own trash. Position of booth at festival to be determined after all vendors are booked. Dependent on size of cart/truck.

In the event of extreme adverse weather conditions, the rain date for the Art & Flea market is scheduled for Sunday, May 16. In the event the Art and Flea Market is cancelled, the $100 vendor participation fee will be refunded should the event be cancelled.

For additional information, email: jim.ayers@jcvillage.org

EVENT SPONSORS

Your generous contributions help to make this event possible. The VNA recognizes the important role businesses play in our community, and we wish to assist in your success through promotion and awareness.

For your kind contribution, the VNA will:

Feature your promotional materials at our sponsors’ table during the event.

Post your logo and website link on www.jcvillage.org for the remainder of 2010. The VNA website received more than 24,500 impressions over the past 18 months. The VNA website is a go-to source of information for residents on current events and neighborhood history.

Print your logo on all promotional materials.

Suggested Contributions

TITLE SPONSOR—$2,500
PRESENTING SPONSOR—$250
SUPPORTING SPONSOR—$100
FESTIVAL PATRON—$75

Commitment deadline: May 5, 2010

Step 1: Click HERE to contact the VNA

Step 2: Fill out the contact form. You will receive an email reply with further instructions.

Please make all checks out to THE VILLAGE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION, Attn: Artist & Flea Sponsor and send to The Village Neighborhood Association at the following address:

Damian O’Leary
Treasurer, The Village Neighborhood Association
131 Brunswick Street, Apt 2L
Jersey City, NJ 07302

NOTE:
It is the sponsor’s responsibility to provide logos and all materials for all promotional items.

In the event of extreme adverse weather conditions, the rain date for the Art & Flea Market is scheduled for Sunday, May 16. In the unlikely occurrence of event cancellation, all donations are non-refundable. Regardless, the Village Neighborhood Association will continue to promote your business in all our advertising literature related to promoting the event, and include your business logo on the www.jcvillage.org for the remainder of 2010.

For additional information, email: rob.crow@jcvillage.org

The Village Neighborhood Association
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Time: 7:30 pm
Location: PS #5 (Please see the map below)

General Meeting Information:

The Village Neighborhood Association holds their monthly meeting on the second Tuesday of the month in the Auditorium of the Dr. Michael Conti Public School (PS #5). Meetings begin at 7:30pm and are open to the public. Please use the school’s main entrance located on Merseles Street.

AGENDA

7:30 pm – 7:45 pm
Introductions
Rob Crow
President, The Village Neighborhood Association

7:45 pm – 8:15 pm
Special Guest: Councilman Steven Fulop
Ward E councilman Steven Fulop
Steve will address the group on the state of the City budget, and the looming tax hike. The budget will not be ready for passage until later this month, so this is a perfect opportunity to let your voices be heard!

Steve will also update us on the proposed gas line to service New York that could possibly run through Jersey City, as well as Jersey City’s quest to be the pilot city for Google’s “Fiber for Communities” experiment program.

8:15 pm – 8:25 pm
April 2010 Jersey School Board Elections
Carol L. Lester
Sterling Waterman
Anthony Sharperson

Three candidates for the upcoming Jersey City Board of Education elections on April 20th will discuss their qualifications.

8:25 pm – 8:30 pm
Village Park Update and Hudson County Open Space Fund Petition
Rob Crow & Michelle La Monica Egar
Rob & Michelle will update you on the status of the park project, including the progress of the HCOS grant application, and what you can do to help.

8:30 pm – 8:40 pm
Community News Update
Newark Avenue Streetscape • Second Street Quality of Life • The Village Mural

8:40 pm – 8:55 pm
Open Discussion and Coffee
Coffee donated by Starbucks!

Finding the school:

The Hudson County Open Space Trust Fund grant application submission deadline is quickly approaching, and we need your support.

Please click on the image above to be redirected to an online petition in support of available HCOS funds being granted to the renovation for the First Street Park in The Village section of downtown Jersey City.

The petition contains all of the background material about the park, so I ask you to please read it over and sign.

Support from the entire downtown Jersey City area is vital, so PLEASE spread the word!