Hackensack War Monument Restoration

The “Hackensack War Monument” (also referred to as the “Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Memorial”) recently underwent a restoration. Located on the Courthouse Green, the statue was sculpted in 1924 by Charles Henry Niehaus (1855-1935). Niehaus was a renowned sculptor.



The base of the monument presents four relief sculptures of war scenes: General Washington at the Battle of Monmouth, the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, and World War I.

The restoration was undertaken by Robert Neal Carpenter, a sculptor, consultant and lecturer. Mr. Carpenter painstakingly cleaned the bronze statue, waxed and buffed the bronze statue taking special care in problem areas. He also cleaned the limestone base several times, taking great care not to damage any of the reliefs. After the cleaning, Mr. Carpenter applied a “consolidation material” to the stone in order to reintroduce the “binder” holding the stone particles together. Over the years, acid rain eroded these particles causing many of the relief surfaces to wear away. Mr. Carpenter then applied a water-proof coat that will extend the life of the consolidation and also enhance the protection of the stone surface while enabling the stone to “breath”.

No attempts were made to re-carve fine details lost to time as this could further damage the artist’s original work which was highly lauded. The “consolidation” will now preserve what is left which still presents nicely and remains very recognizable.

“We are very pleased to get this work done and preserve this fitting tribute for decades to come,” said Mayor John Labrosse.

As you will read below, the present monument is not what the sculptor originally proposed in 1923. Hackensack’s community influenced the final design considerably.

The total cost of restoration was $14,250 with a portion covered by a Bergen County History Grant for Special Projects.

Funding has been made possible in part by the Bergen County Department of Parks and the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of Cultural Affairs in the Department of State, through grant funds administered by the Bergen County Division of Cultural and Historic Affairs.

 
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THE OGDEN STANDARD-EXAMINER
SUNDAY MORNING
SEPTEMBER 2, 1923
[Excerpt]

HACKENSACK is a pretty suburban town in New Jersey, across the Hudson River from New York. Its people, like the people of so many other American communities, are eager to do honor to their sons and brothers, husbands and fathers who served their country in the Great War. Money to erect a soldiers and sailors' memorial was raised and the committee in charge invited sculptors to submit designs for it. Out of scores of praise-worthy plans, the committee, after careful deliberation, selected one by Charles Henry Niehaus, one of the most distinguished of American sculptors. The committee was delighted with Mr. Niehaus's model and thought it would make a memorial monument of which the town might well feel proud. But when the model of the statue came to be shown to the people of Hackensack a storm of indignant protests burst over the heads of the committee and Mr. Niehaus that shook the village almost to its very foundations.

From the criticisms made, it seemed there was hardly anything admirable about the statue which the committee had found so satisfactory and which Niehaus considered one of his masterpieces. The clay figure which the sculptor had so painstakingly modeled was torn, figuratively speaking, limb from limb. What Mr. Niehaus had designed and the committee had accepted was the figure of a woman, heavily and substantially draped and bearing a broken sword and some flowers in her left hand. On her head is a helmet, which, the sculptor says, is like those the warriors of ancient Greece wore and this the committee considered very appropriate for its solemn purpose, but a great number of Hackensack's citizens didn't think so. They objected not only to one but too many things about the figure. Never, they declared, would they be happy with this figure standing on the historic village green where George Washington camped during the Revolution. It was, they said, a wholly inadequate attempt at honoring the town's gallant war heroes. To begin with, they said it wasn't stern enough. Such a mild-visaged lady, bearing flowers and a broken sword, might better be named "Peace" and kept for some other purpose than a tribute to fighting men.

Furthermore, they considered it a mistake to have a woman's figure used for the memorial--it was men who did the fighting and the statue, they felt, should have been that of a soldier, and preferably a soldier in action. How, they asked, would passing automobilists ever guess that this was a soldiers' monument? What was objected to most of all was the helmet. "Grecian helmet nothing!" one ex-service man was heard to declare. "That's a German helmet--the very same thing we used to take shots at from the trenches." And so it went. After his conscientious effort to please, Mr. Niehaus was dismayed to hear his work scornfully described as a "woman bundled in clothes, wearing a German helmet and holding up her hands as if to cry 'Kamerad!'"

This is only one of many instances which show that the life of a famous sculptor is not the easy, pleasant thing.

CITY OF HACKENSACK
COUNTY OF BERGEN
NEW JERSEY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR REDEVELOPER
OF THE
LOT C REDEVELOPMENT AREA
(BLOCK 308.01, LOT 3)

SUBMISSION DEADLINE:
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2016 AT 10:00 A.M.

Full Request for Proposals

Additional Items: 

1. Respondent Information Sheet (Must be completed in advance to respond!).

2. Adopted Lot C Redevelopment Plan.

3. Lot C Survey.

4. Phase I Environmental Site Assessment With Limited Phase II.

5. Geotechnical Executive Summary.

6. Geotechnical Engineering Data Report.

7. BCUA Easement Letter.

8. Tidelands Grant Approval Letter.

Road Resurfacing work for Fairmount, Poplar and Ross will begin this Monday and is expected to be completed by Friday. Road Resurfacing for Louis and East Camden will begin the following week. Please follow all posted signs. Move vehicles as necessary. Use Caution.

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
FOR THE PROVISION OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AND 
EXTRAORDINARY UNSPECIFIABLE SERVICES

Public Defender/Conflict Public Defender
Tax Appeal Attorney
Consulting Municipal Engineer
Redevelopment Attorney
Special Litigation Counsel

DUE DATE: September 19, 2016, at 10:00 o’clock a.m.

(Click here for RFQ)

CITY OF HACKENSACK
COUNTY OF BERGEN
STATE OF NEW JERSEY

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Mayor and Council of the City of Hackensack will hold a public hearing on Tuesday September 27, 2016, at 6:30 PM during the regularly scheduled Mayor and Council workshop. The purpose of the hearing is to present and obtain public comment on a grant application to be submitted to the Bergen County Open Space, Recreation, Farmland & Historic Preservation Trust Fund – Municipal Park Improvement Program, by the City of Hackensack for recreational improvements within Staib Park. The meeting will take place in the Council Chambers located at 65 Central Avenue, Hackensack, NJ 07601. The City Manager will make a brief presentation followed by an opportunity for public comment.  All residents are encouraged to attend and participate.


Deborah Karlsson
City Clerk

http://www.drugfreenj.org/knockoutvolunteers/

Red Cross Emotional and Spiritual Care Resources Available to those Affected by Hoboken Train Accident

HOBOKEN, NJ, September 30, 2016 - American Red Cross volunteers remain available to provide mental health and spiritual care services to those impacted by yesterday's train accident in Hoboken. "Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this tragedy," said Steven Sarlnelli, regional disaster officer, American Red Cross New Jersey Region. "The days that follow a tragedy can be a stressful time for those affected and their families. We invite those in need to utilize our emotional and spiritual care services during this difficult time."

For more information or to be connected with a Red Cross mental health or spiritual care volunteer, call 800-507-6058.

Following the accident Red Cross volunteers joined with other organizations and agencies to support a Family Assistance Center opened yesterday where resources were made available to those impacted. Red Cross disaster mental health, spiritual care and Safe & Well volunteers were available to provide assistance to those in need. The Family Assistance Center closed this morning al 9:00. For those who may be trying to find a loved one Impacted by the train accident, Red Cross Safe and Well is available to help locate them. Safe and Well ls an easy-to-use online tool to help families and individuals notify loved ones that they are safe during an emergency. Safe and Well allows people to list
their own status and allows friends and family to search for messages from their loved ones. If you are concerned about a loved one, visit the 'Search" page, enter the person's name and pre-disaster phone number or complete address. If your loved one has registered, you will be able to view the messages that they posted.

To register yourself or search for a loved one on the Safe and Well website visit redcross.org/safeandwell or from any phone call 1-800-RED CROSS to be connected with your local chapter.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides International humanitarian aid and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross Is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform Its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.com or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

About the American Red Cross in New Jersey
The American Red Cross provides programs and services to a population of 8. 8 ml/lion In New Jersey. We at the American Red Cross, NJ Region, would like to express that our hearts go out to those Impacted by the train incident in Hoboken earlier today. Throughout the day, the Red Cross coordinated with state and local emergency officials to determine how we were best able to serve our community. Throughout the day, we worked diligently with staff and volunteers to support the Family Assistance Center located at 20 Caven Point Avenue, Jersey City. At this location, we were prepared with several licensed mental health workers, spiritual care providers, something to eat and drink, and a quiet place to receive updates from emergency officials. In addition to having these services available, Red Cross activated the no-cost Safe and Well program, a site that makes it possible for family and friends to search the list of those who registered themselves as safe by name and displaying a brief message, We anticipate that the Safe and Well program will remain operational for a longer period to allow family and friends to locate all loved ones who might have been on the train. In addition, we will continue to make disaster mental health counselors and spiritual care providers available to those who seek support after this tragic event. Right now, the American Red Cross New Jersey Region has what it needs to address the needs of this event, but we thank everyone for their support. This Is a good time to remind everyone that events such as these can be stressful to Individuals of all ages, and people should take extra care of themselves and their famllles. For example, they can try to surround themselves with people and activities that comfort them, and should be careful not to overexpose themselves to media reports about the tragedy.

Further Inquiries about this event can be directed to the American Red Cross NJ Region, 1-800-RedCross.

Hundreds of Seniors Enjoy Hackensack's Annual Novemberfest Senior Luncheon

HACKENSACK, N.J. -- Approximately 270 local senior citizens attended the City of Hackensack's annual Novermberfest Senior Luncheon yesterday and were treated to a day of great food, music and time to spend with friends. The event is organized each year by the city's Recreation Department, Recreation & Cultural Board and Senior Citizen's Advisory Board. The event was held in the M&M Recreation Center and was also attended by Mayor John Labrosse, Deputy Mayor Kathleen Canestrino, Council members Leonardo Battaglia, David Sims and Deborah Keeling-Geddis, City Manager Ted Ehrenburg, Recreation Director Patricia Ruggiero and dozens of volunteers and city employees helping to show the seniors a good time.

"Senior citizens helped build Hackensack into the great community it is today and they deserve this special event to recognize the contributions they have made and continue to make to our city," said Mayor Labrosse, who delivered a welcome message to attendees. "I would like to thank our Recreation Department and everyone who helped make this event possible."

Seniors who attended the Novemberfest Luncheon were treated to a full meal of turkey, pasta, salad and much more that was catered by the Hackensack High School Culinary Arts program. Musical entertainment was provided by Fred Guarino. The event is one of several each year designed to celebrate Hackensack seniors, and is just part of the city's excellent senior services.

For any additional information please contact Philip Swibinski at 201-864-0600 or philip.swibinski@vmmi.net.

________________________________________________________________
Mayor and Council honor late Councilman James H. Leverett

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
FOR THE PROVISION OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AND
EXTRAORDINARY UNSPECIFIABLE SERVICES

ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT ATTORNEY (Notice to Bidders) (Request for Qualifications)

ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT ENGINEER (Notice to Bidders) (Request for Qualifications)

ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT PLANNER (Notice to Bidders) (Request for Qualifications)

DUE DATE: Thursday, December 08, 2016, at 2:00 o’clock p.m.

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
FOR THE PROVISION OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AND
EXTRAORDINARY UNSPECIFIABLE SERVICES

PLANNING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT ATTORNEY (Notice to Bidders) (Request for Qualifications)

PLANNING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT ENGINEER (Notice to Bidders) (Request for Qualifications)

PLANNING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT PLANNER (Notice to Bidders) (Request for Qualifications)

DUE DATE: Thursday, December 21, 2016, at 2:00 o’clock p.m.

Hackensack Awarded $695,000 Grant for Johnson Park improvements

HACKENSACK, N.J. -- The City of Hackensack has been awarded a $695,000 grant from the New Jersey State Department of Environmental Protection that will fund improvements to Johnson Park, complementing the city's ambitious indoor Sports Dome project that is being built at an adjacent site. The grant was awarded through a competitive process and the funds will match an equal amount that the city has previously bonded for the project, making it now fully funded and ready to move forward. It includes major park improvements such as the installation of a kayak dock/launch system, a boat ramp and a new passive park along the Hackensack River, as well as a 110 space parking lot and a new access road to provide entry into the Sports Dome facility.

"This grant will support our vision of dramatically improving Hackensack's recreation facilities and expanding access to these wonderful programs to more of our city's children," said Mayor John Labrosse. "The Hackensack River is a tremendous resource for our community and these improvements to Johnson Park will allow more residents to enjoy it for recreation and leisure. I thank the State DEP for recognizing our vision and providing these funds to help it be accomplished."

Hackensack was one of several communities to receive funding from the DEP's Newark Bay Complex Grant, which is designed to support projects that create or enhance public access or enjoyment of waterfront resources in the Newark Bay Complex. The total grant amount of $53 million was funded by legal settlements from companies responsible for polluting the Passaic River and other New Jersey waterways.

Once completed, the Johnson Park Sports Dome project will allow Hackensack children to participate in soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball and many other sports and recreation programs all year round. The 80,000 square foot facility will include customizable fields as well as meeting rooms and other facilities that will be accessible to the community. Along with the city's major renovation of the Recreation Center on Holt Street, its new Carver Park Splash Pad and new Atlantic Street Park, the project represents a major investment in recreation by Mayor Labrosse and the City Council.

"Hackensack children deserve the best recreational facilities that we can provide and we have a duty to help keep them active, engaged and on the right path," said Councilman Leo Battaglia, who has been a major proponent of the Johnson Park project. "These new facilities are being built with the city's best interests in mind and grants like this will help us reduce costs for taxpayers. It's a win-win for all of Hackensack and I am very excited to see these projects move forward."

For any additional information please contact Philip Swibinski at 201-864-0600 or philip.swibinski@vmmi.net.

Christmas Trees are collected curbside every Wednesday in January.   Must be placed to the curb the night before. 

Hackensack Selects Redeveloper for 4.3 Acre 'Lot C' Site
$86 Million Project will add to city's revitalization, maintain on-site public parking

HACKENSACK, N.J. -- Mayor John Labrosse and the City Council voted unanimously last night to select a conditionally designated redeveloper for the city-owned 4.3 acre "Lot C" property. The winning plan was submitted by a joint venture of Hornrock Properties and Russo Development. The $86 million project includes two mixed-use buildings totaling 338 residential units and 4,000 square feet of retail space, as well as 200 public parking spaces, community amenities and a "Gateway" public park. The project will transform an underutilized parking lot into a vibrant residential and retail community that will complement the city's ongoing Downtown Redevelopment initiative, which is adding nearly $1 Billion in total new real estate value and is helping the city reduce residential property taxes. 

"Selecting this redevelopment plan represents another step forward in our mission of revitalizing Hackensack and making it the best small city in the state," said Mayor Labrosse. "This project will create substantial new city revenue and continue growing Hackensack in a responsible, sustainable way that will benefit all residents and taxpayers."

The proposal approved tonight includes a net offer of over $8 million to the city for purchase of the lot, plus a parking revenue sharing agreement. The property is expected to generate significant new tax revenue and the city will now be entering into negotiations with the developer on financial and redevelopment agreements. It had been generating no tax revenue previously. 

“Redevelopment is our community’s future and growing our City in a responsible manner that works for taxpayers is our administration’s highest priority,” said Deputy Mayor Kathleen Canestrino. “Along with many other vital projects on Main Street and throughout the surrounding areas, this redevelopment initiative will transform an underutilized parcel of land into an exciting new place for people to live, shop, eat and enjoy.”

The City issued a Request for Proposals in August 2016 seeking qualified redevelopers for the property and formed a Selection Committee to evaluate the submissions, with the Hornrock/Russo project ultimately chosen. The Lot C site is located between the East Salem Street Extension, Midtown Bridge Approach and Midtown Place across from Foschini Park. 

Plans at the new development include an outdoor pool, urban garden, fire pits, communal kitchen, pet friendly spaces and much more. The apartments themselves are expected to include 9-foot ceilings, oversized windows, chef-inspired kitchens and energy efficient appliances. 

Over 2,200 new residential units and 140,000 square feet of new retail space is currently under construction or approved in Hackensack, with most concentrated in the City’s Downtown Redevelopment Area along Main Street. This development boom represents nearly $1 billion of real estate value in Hackensack. The City has aggressively sought out redevelopment opportunities in the area that will generate significant new municipal tax revenue while returning people to the City’s downtown district to live, work and play. At the same time, the City is investing in recreational facilities, open space and community attractions like the new Performing Arts Center, meeting its commitment to balanced community development. 

Below are some preliminary site-plan concepts.  Click here for a larger acrobat file. Final layout and design are subject to the redevelopment agreement and Planning Board approval. 

WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO 6 PM
EST THURSDAY...

The National Weather Service in Upton has issued a Winter Storm Warning for heavy snow...which is in effect from midnight tonight
to 6 PM EST Thursday. 

* Accumulations...6 to 10 inches of snow.

* Locations...New York City, Long Island, Southern Connecticut, the Lower Hudson Valley and Northeastern New Jersey.

* Hazard type...Heavy snow.

* Timing...Late tonight through Thursday.

* Impacts...Hazardous travel due to snow covered roads and poor visibility. Blowing and drifting snow is possible.

* Winds...North 10 to 20 mph with gusts 30-35 mph.

* Visibility...1/2 to 1/4 mile at times.

* Temperatures...Around 30.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for Heavy Snow means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring. Significant amounts of snow are forecast that will make travel dangerous. Only travel in an emergency. If you must travel...keep an extra flashlight...food... and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.

_________________________________________________

Due to the Winter Weather Warning in effect for tomorrow, the City of Hackensack is Cancelling Recycling Pick Up Only for ROUTES 7 & 8 (THURS., FEB. 9^th).  The City of Hackensack will pick up REGULAR GARBAGE ONLY due to the impact this storm will have in the morning hours. 

**Your Recycling Pick Up Schedule will resume next week.

We appreciate everyone’s cooperation as we prepare for this Winter Storm.

______________________________________________

Reminder: No Parking When Roads are Snow Covered.  The City will enforce all snow removal ordinances.

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The Johnson Public Library in Hackensack wants to hear from you!

Please respond to this brief survey about the Johnson Public Library. The results will be helpful as we plan the future of the library as part of our new Strategic Plan. 

Please enter to win a new iPad Mini. Complete this survey and enter your email address in the last question.

¡La Biblioteca Pública de Hackensack quiere saber su opinión!

Por favor responda este breve cuestionario. Sus respuestas nos ayudará con nuestro Plan Estratégico y el futuro de la biblioteca.