Friends of Hamilton Park

Waterfront Gardening Association

2008-04-30T11:58:00.002-04:00

The Friends of Hamilton Park (FoHP) has morphed into the Waterfront Gardening Association, Inc., a new gardening and special events organization that extends to the Newport waterfront!

www.waterfrontgardening.blogspot.com

For more information, please call 201-388-4506.

Renovation plan should go back to the drawing board

2007-03-23T00:34:00.000-04:00

The above photos were on display at a meeting for local residents to view the plans for the renovation of Hamilton Park.

The photos give the appearance that a renovation might include these kinds of flower and community gardens. Although the plans reveal two narrow floral gardens, they are not nearly grand enough to resemble any of the gardens depicted in these photos. Although residents had asked for more gardens, what they are getting is significantly less.

In addition, the plans do not include irrigation, which is necessary for healthy lawns and landscaping.

The renovation is going to cost 2 million, but we don't know where this money will be spent; a breakdown of cost was not provided.

A professional plan would include a reference "key" to indicate what all markings on the plan represent; there was none.

Announcements for this meeting, like the previous meetings leading up to this one, targeted a small group of local residents. Hamilton Park is a public park, and the City should have given adequate, public notice, so that all interested residents could participate in the planning process.

Final plans for renovation of Hamilton Park

2007-03-11T16:33:00.000-04:00

March 22nd
7:00 PM
1 McWilliams Place (corner of Hamilton Park and 8th Street)

Come view the plans and give input on what may be the last opportunity.

Farmers Market returns in June

2007-03-11T16:18:00.000-04:00

Peaceful Valley Orchards farm store, Pittstown, NJ

Peaceful Valley Orchards, Hoboken Farms and Sassy Sweet Treats will return to Hamilton Park again this spring to sell fresh NJ grown produce, baked goods, pies, herbs, honey, eggs, jams, mozzarella, artisan breads, sirloin burgers, shrimp, crab cakes, cookies, brownies, coffee cakes and more.

The Jersey Fresh market is being scheduled for Wednesdays and will run from mid-June until the end of September.

Sponsored by the Friends of Hamilton Park. For more info. call 201-388-4506.

Historic Hamilton Park is Worth Preserving

2007-02-26T13:22:00.000-05:00

* double click on the photo to enlarge *

The photograph above is a glimpse of historic Hamilton Park. In the center was a large water fountain, surrounded by an ornamental iron fence and the park was considered to be Passive.

Our park is the heart of the community. It lends tranquility and harmony to our lives. As the largest park in downtown Jersey City, it is visited by a diverse population. Located as it is in a historic district, its maintenance and plan should reflect the quality and tone of the surrounding architecture. It is the single most important and irreplaceable historic property in our neighborhood.

In recent years, the number of people visiting this park has increased and will continue to increase as more people choose to make Jersey City their home. Our goal's support Hamilton Park's historic quality, natural beauty and preservation while accommodating graciously and appropriately the "greatest" park related needs of the community which it serves.

We support a "period restoration" for Hamilton Park to include the historic style water fountain, landscaping & gardens and preserving green open space, with only a slight modification to include the communities’ Top needs, and nothing more.

1/23/07 - T&M Park Master Plan Public Meeting

2007-01-25T19:19:00.000-05:00

January 23, 2007
Re: T&M Park Master Plan Public Meeting
City Hall, Jersey City

The Friends of Hamilton Park formed in the spring of 2005 for the purpose of organizing a farmers market, cultural events and to create flower gardens in an effort to bring our community together and to address matters of neglect and crime. We organized seven planting and cleanup events in the past two years and received two grants through the Jersey City Parks Coalition to fund our gardening projects. However, we have no real watering system and maintenance has been a terrible burden.

Recently, we made a point to bring to the City Councils attention that the renovation plans for Hamilton Park contained very few gardens and that a study conducted a year ago showed strong support for adding more gardens, and not less. In fact the study results show that landscaping ranked # 3, behind Dog Run and a Playground. The Jersey City Parks Coalition supported our stand on this issue and we will work together to ensure that Hamilton Park receives its fare share of gardens as was voted for by community residents.

We also learned from the study that residents did not place a high value on the two tennis courts that ranked # 8 on the study; the basketball court received even less support at # 16. I do not believe that items ranked #8 and #16 should be on this plan. We do not want ball courts relocated to other areas of the park to be placed in front of historic homes. The nearby athletic field was intended to be this areas active park. The courts could easily be relocated close by so that residents may continue to use them. However this possibility has not even been considered. I call upon City officials to work out a better plan.

Hamilton Park is located in the historic district and the same ordinance that applies to all homeowners must also apply to this park. A renovation is the opportunity to correct past mistakes.

Janet Allen, President
Friends of Hamilton Park

Hamilton Park needs renovation

2007-01-15T00:25:00.000-05:00

Hamilton Park needs renovation
Sunday January 14, 2007

The Jersey City Reporter
Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor:

Hamilton Park had its last significant overhaul during the early 1970's through the State Green Acres Program that stipulated the creation of active space. Jersey City at that time needed state assistance due to the poor financial condition. Hamilton Park at that time was not an historic neighborhood.

Times have changed, and now Hamilton Park's surrounding neighborhoods are in much better condition - arguably along with our City's finances. Also, Hamilton Park has been an historic neighborhood now for over 25 years. During the past few years, Hamilton Park neighborhood historic homeowners have had the bar raised yet again with regard to the level of complying with historic building codes. I think this higher, enforced standard is both entirely appropriate and needed.

However, I think this also needs to be applied to the plans to renovate Hamilton Park, too. I encourage all to visit the Jersey Room of the beautiful Downtown branch of the Jersey City Free Public Library to see pictures of just how green a space and passive in nature Hamilton Park historically was.

During the three years I operated the Hamilton Park Farmers' Market I had the opportunity to meet many of Hamilton Park's truly "old guard" residents (pre 1960) who fondly shared with me their recollections of how beautiful a space Hamilton Park was as a passive recreation area. Today, I feel the children's play area and dog run are now needed. However, it should end there.

Keeping the to-be renovated Hamilton Park as passive and green as possible is both consistent with and fair to the same standards the surrounding homeowners are now held to and form an historical perspective has integrity.

Alan Singer

Parks & Open Space Meetings

2007-01-15T00:13:00.000-05:00

T&M Associates has been retained by the City to prepare a comprehensive City Parks and Open Space Master Plan for our sixty seven (plus) Parks and Open Space areas. Concept Park Plans have been prepared for several parks, showing a proposed design with new facilities and/or among existing rehabilitated facilities. Input from Jersey City residents is encouraged and welcomed throughout the City Parks and Open Space Master Plan project.

The following public meeting to view the plans and give input/comments will take place as follows:

WARD F
January 9, 2007 6:00 - 9:00 PM
Mary McLeod Bethune Life Center, 140 Martin Luther King Drive

WARD A
January 16, 2007 6:00 - 9:00 PM
Moose Hall, 60 West Side Avenue

WARD E
January 23, 2007 6:00 - 9:00 PM
City Hall, Anna Cucci Memorial Council Chambers, 280 Grove Street

January 25, 2007 6:00 - 9:00 PM
School #28, 167 Hancock Ave.

February 6, 2007 6:00 - 9:00 PM
Hank Gallo Hall, Lincoln Park

February 27, 2007 6:00 - 9:00 PM
Pershing Field Community Center, 201 Central Avenue

The Jersey City Parks Coalition and the Friends of Hamilton Park encourage Jersey City residents to attend these important meetings scheduled throughout our wards to give input and share our concerns.

Park Vandalism

2006-12-18T13:30:00.001-05:00

We are seeing an increase in vandalism in Hamilton Park.

November 18th: FoHP members had gathered in the park to decorate the gazebo and tree in preparation for our tree lighting ceremony. We hung 3 vinyl banners at the three park entrances to advertise the event. In less than 24 hours, one of the banners located at the W. Hamilton and Pavonia park entrance was slashed with a sharp object in several places. The cost of the banner was $65.00.

December 11th, 13th, 15th: FoHP members hung fliers throughout the Hamilton Park community to get the word out about our Dec. 14th public meeting. The color printed fliers were ripped down each time, almost immediately after they were hung up. On the morning of Friday Dec. 15th, a sizeable amount of fliers were discovered on the front steps of a FoHP members home. The fliers were crumpled up into balls.

While it has been brought to our attention that it may be illegal to post fliers on the telephone poles around the park, it is apparent that only select fliers are being tore down (such as the fliers put up by the Friends of Hamilton Park) as many other fliers remain on the same telephone poles for long periods of time.

December 16th: Two trees in the south garden in Hamilton park were found crooked and upon inspection it appears that the trees were forced into their crooked positions; one of the trees is broken at the base. Earlier in the year a healthy perennial clematis plant that was successfully climbing up a lamp post in the south garden was discovered lying on the ground. The plant had been torn off the pole and a Japanese maple was found with 2/3 of its branches broken off. The Japanese maple had been donated to the Friends of Hamilton Park by the 14th Street Garden Center.

December 17th: The tree lights that FoHP members used to decorate the tree for the holiday season were found cut and some strings of lights were pulled down. The tree lights were donated to the Friends of Hamilton Park by The Home Depot.

The recent incidents have been reported to the Jersey City police and we are asking neighborhood residents to please report any witnessed incidents of vandalism to us, as well as the Jersey City police.

JC LIST HOLIDAY PARTY - DECEMBER 18TH

2006-12-18T13:01:00.000-05:00

The Downtown Jersey City List holiday party has been scheduled for:

Monday December 18th
7:00 - 9:00 PM
The Merchant Bar & Restaurant 279 Grove Street across from City Hall

Finger foods & snacks; prizes, drink specials available for purchase:

$3 Mango Sangria
$3 Yellow Tail Chardonnay and Shiraz
$5 Apple Martini
$2.50 Bud Light Draft
$3 Bottles Brahma Beer

When you come into the Merchant, you'll receive a ticket with a number on it. Later in the evening we will pick the tickets out of a hat and call out the winning numbers.

Don't be shy. Stop by and say hello.

Meet and Greet with the Developer of Newport

2006-12-12T01:02:00.001-05:00

PUBLIC MEETING - FRIENDS OF HAMILTON PARK, INC.
Membership Meeting

Thursday December 14
7:30 PM at the Atrium
330 Ninth Street, bet. Monmouth & Brunswick Sts.

Agenda
Meet and Greet with the Developer of Newport
Two residential buildings, the Grant and Cleveland, are being planned by Newport Associates for 10th Street. An explanation of that development will be made by our guest speaker:

Jamie LeFrak, President
Lefrak Organization

Community residents are invited to attend our meeting to view the plans and ask questions.

www.Newportnj.com

www.theshoreatnewport.com

Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in Hamilton Park

2006-11-22T14:34:00.001-05:00

On Saturday November 25th at 5:00 pm, the Friends of Hamilton Park will host the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in the Hamilton Park, located at Jersey Ave. and 8th Street.

Refreshments, cookies and holiday breads will be available and the event will include carols with songful help from Holy Rosary.

Everyone is welcome to attend as we kick off the holiday season in Hamilton Park.

Preparing for the lighting ceremony

2006-11-19T20:53:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, we began at 11:00 am and worked until 4:45 pm. Nine more new sets of colored lights were added to the pine tree and white icicles are once again hanging from the gazebo. We kept blowing fuses but that's because we weren't suppose to plug more than 3 sets into the outlet! We always forget that part. We did the best we could considering we didn't have any way to reach the top of the tree. An extendable pole purchased from Lowes and a tall ladder did the trick. They're up, they're working and they'll make the park sparkle, just as they did last year.

A fire truck went up 8th street after dark when we tested them, and the guys gave us the thumbs up!

Then on Sunday, and after a hot brunch, a few of us members worked for another four hours to clean up around the gazebo to rake leaves, cut back brush and pick up garbage. That area around the gazebo is so dirty that nobody wants to touch it (literally), but we do it twice a year. We're all set for next Saturday.

Holiday decorating is this Saturday Nov. 18th

2006-11-17T14:49:00.000-05:00

You're invited to help us string lights in the park this Saturday as we prepare for our next event:

November 18
11:00 am - until we finish

White icicle lights will be put around the gazebo and more colored lights will be added to the tree to prepare for our Tree Lighting Ceremony coming up on Sat. Nov. 25th.

We prepare for the event by decorating one week in advance. If you're interested in helping us string lights this Saturday, just meet us in the park by the gazebo, and dress warm.

Notice of Public Meeting

2006-11-03T14:27:00.001-05:00

The Friends of Hamilton Park will be hosting a public meeting on:

Monday November 13th
7:30 PM
330 Ninth Street

Our informational meeting will take place in the Atrium located between Monmouth & Brunswick St. Learn more about the Friends of Hamilton Park, our accomplishments, how to join as a member, and help us make plans for 2007.

Amendments to the Hamilton Park Renovation Plan

2006-11-03T14:27:00.000-05:00

Amendments to the Hamilton Park Renovation Plan
November 2006

The Jersey City Reporter
Letters to the Editor

The Jersey City Parks Coalition asks that the Hamilton Park renovation plans reflect the clear input of residents as reflected in the HPNA's surveys. In particular, we are concerned that the public's wish for bountiful quality park gardens and landscaping, including gardens at the park's entrances, has not been reflected in the plans presented thus far by T & M. We have found that in Van Vorst Park, Ercel Webb Park, Pershing Field, Sgt. Anthony Park and elsewhere that community gardens best allow a community to become empowered to own and develop and protect the parks of the City. They add the human touch.

A question on the first ballot that took place on June 11, 2005 asked residents to "please list, in order of priority, your top four concerns or wishes that you would like addressed in this renovation of Hamilton Park". Residents freely voted for: dog run (139), updated playground equipment (65), more landscaping and gardens (51), and pet free area (42). These were the top choices selected by residents and accompanied by these scores.

It is also important the community's will be followed regarding a quality dog run, updated children's and toddler's play areas that are located comfortably in their own space, as well as more irrigated community gardens, quality landscaping and clean pet free-lawn areas. The Friends of Hamilton Park should receive full support as they continue to lead residents to develop and maintain Hamilton Park's community gardens and to introduce rich cultural events within the Park like the Farmers' Markets.

The HPNA study also reveals that residents did not place a high value on basketball (13) or tennis courts (27) within the park. They want active sports areas for our older children and adults, but do not want to lose precious park lawn space when they could be located a couple of blocks away. We ask that the City work with residents to accomplish this. We appreciate the balloting efforts put forth by HPNA president Stoia in conducting a consensus study and look forward to a successful renovation of this historic downtown park.

The Jersey City Parks Coalition (a 501(c)(3) has empowered residents to design the renovations of Van Vorst Park, Ercel Webb Park and Pershing Field thus far and is also assisting its other members towards this end. We have also fund raised for nearly all of the tens of thousands of plants and trees that have been placed in the dozens of new community gardens. We believe that residents know best how to design their community park, plan for its uses, help raise the necessary funds and help to maintain and protect their precious communal space.

Our growing park group membership is: CABA (Ercel Webb Park), PFGF (Pershing Field), FVVP (Van Vorst Park), MABA (Cornelius Parker Park), SAPA (Sgt. Anthony Park), UGSBA (Arlington Park), MLKBA ( Izetta McDuffy Park), FFSP (First Street Park), FoHP (Hamilton Park), and FSC (Speer Cemetery).

Dr Clifford Waldman
Executive Director
Jersey City Parks Coalition

Amend Renovation Plans for Hamilton Park

2006-10-31T15:39:00.000-05:00

Amend plans for park
Tuesday, October 24, 2006

Letters to the Editor
The Jersey Journal

We are proposing that the City of Jersey City amend the current renovation plan for Hamilton Park. The problem with the plan is that we're told it's what the community wanted based on a survey conducted by a local community group. The survey results show very strong support for adding more landscaping, yet the plans displayed during two public meetings reveal garden areas that are significantly less than what currently exists.

Additional landscaping should be created inside each of the four corner park entrances as well as the two main entrances. We recommend these corner gardens be 60 feet in length (3,600 square feet). The two main entrances should have 5-foot gardens on both sides of the pathway and extend up to the center of the park. All gardens should have a variety of plants to include shrubs, small ornamental trees, rose bushes, perennials, bulbs and seasonal annuals.

Well-designed Victorian gardens will beautify, soften and humanize this special historic park. They should have computerized watering systems and be protected by fencing.

The Friends of Hamilton Park are committed in assisting the city in funding, creating and maintaining all gardens in Hamilton Park and will continue to include residents to assist us in our planting, maintenance projects.

We have chosen to use the results of this same study which serves a purpose of documenting the wishes of the majority of voters that participated. On the first balloting that was conducted, a question asked voters to list their four top concerns or wishes that they would like addressed in the renovation. Residents asked for a sizable dog run, updated toddler playground, more landscaping and gardens and a designated pet-free area.

The study reveals that residents did not place a high value on basketball or tennis courts. Residents want active sports for our older children, but do not want them to take up valuable lawn space in this neighborhood's only community park. Therefore, we're recommending these structures be re-located to a convenient location nearby and outside the park so that residents may continue to use them.

The focus of this renovation should be based on the top results of the study.

JANET ALLEN PRESIDENT, FRIENDS OF HAMILTON PARK JERSEY CITY

Halloween 2006

2006-10-29T23:59:00.000-05:00

Another fun event!

Because of the bad weather on Saturday, the event was moved to Sunday -- but it meant no spooky decorating that we had planned for the gazebo since our decorating crew was out of town and we followed another park event. But that's okay.... the dogs came out to play anyway! And the judges tell me it was a tough one to call because the dogs were dressed up so good and were all well behaved.

The top winning biscuits that took home the three prizes were: Poodle Princess, Hannibal Lecter, and Woof disguised as a Sheep.

We would like to thank you to Fetch-it by the Park and Fetch-it Pet Supplies for the 3 gift certificates and doggie grab bags. Thanks to Julie for all of her wonderful homemade baking which made the treats very special (no store bought cakes today!). And to those that passed out fliers, shopped, prepared, stuffed bags, poured drinks, handled registration, took photographs, and the 3 judges and cleanup crew. Lot's of team work.. and a great job.

Thank you to all the particpating dog owners that shopped and created your pet's costumes and joined our contest because without you we wouldn't have a contest! And to all that came out to watch, laugh, and enjoy this festive occasion. We hope to see you again next year and enourage others to join us in 2007.

Click on the link below to view the photos:
http://picasaweb.google.com/friendsofhp/PetCostumeParade

RESCHEDULED: Halloween Pet Parade is moved to Sunday Oct. 29th at 4 pm

2006-10-28T14:17:00.000-04:00

Because of the Bad weather today, the Halloween Pet Contest in the Hamilton Park is being moved to Sunday October 29th at 4:00 pm.

The pre-decision was based on the weather forcast because we cannot hold the event indoors. We really do apologize for any inconvenience this will cause and we ask that you tell your friends so the word gets around. We'll post notices in the park.

If you can still come on Sunday... all you need to do is come on out. There is no registration. Just come with your pet in costume. Each participating pet owner will receive a grab bag and be able to win one of three gift certificates from Fetch-it by the Park and Fetch-it Pet Supplies. The contest takes place in the Hamilton Park between 8th and 9th street.

Please gather inside the West Hamilton Place entrance to the park at 4:00 PM SHARP. And don't let a little wind keep you from coming out because it's suppose to die down by tomorrow.

Any questions, contact us:Friends of Hamilton Park: 201-388-4506

Halloween Pet Parade, Sat. Oct. 28

2006-10-19T16:32:00.000-04:00

Don't miss Hamilton Park's 2nd annual "Pet Costume Parade and Contest"

Saturday October 28th
4:00 PM - sharp!

Agenda:

The parade starting point will be on the corner Ninth & Cole Street (at Simple Cafe, 174 Cole St). Get there early and walk with your pet down Ninth Street just 1 block to the park. The contest will take place in the center of the park at the gazebo and will include prizes for best Pet costumes. Judges will be on hand to award gift certificates to Fetch-it Pet Supply.

If you do not wish to participate in the parade but would still like to enter your pet into the contest, you may meet us directly at the gazebo at 4 pm and enjoy some refreshments, snacks and cupcakes while we await the parade participants to join in. Pet's must be on a leash at all times!

Earlier in the day... a BRUNCH with your Pet will take place at Simple Cafe at 174 Cole St., from 12:00 pm noon until 3:30 pm. If you'd like to join the brunch too... please register soon to guarantee seating and a grab bag. The registration deadline to receive a pet grab bag and brunch is noontime on Oct. 25th. Register online at: http://www.fetchitpetsupplies.com/
Or call: 201-659-2880 or 201-610-9405

Sponsored by: Fetch-it Pet Supplies & Fetch-it by the Park, Friends of Hamilton Park & Simple Cafe

Saturday's garden planting was a success!

2006-10-09T22:22:00.000-04:00

Once again, Vinnie from the 14th Street Garden Center hooked us up with some fine looking things... fragrant mums, colorful sedum, montauk daisy, black-eyed susan, echinacea, pink knockout roses, honeysuckle, catmint, quicksilver foamy bells, blue fescue, ruby switch grass, redbeckia, climbing rose, coreopsis, blue fortune agastache, pink gaura, and dutchmen's pipe. As a bonus.... Vinnie threw in some freebies... dwarf korean lilac, purple smokebush, oakleaf hydrangea, japanese dogwood, and a variety of junipers, cypress and arborvitae. The truck was full.... to say the least, but we gladly accepted the generous gift and the larger specimens really made a big difference.

Because of the watering situation, we decided to beef up the south-west garden and have one really nice looking garden, rather than two so-so gardens... and so the south garden was chosen. And it's really quite lovely.

But these things didn't just plant themselves. We started at 9 am and got the hose hooked up, then raked/cleaned up while we awaited the plant delivery mobile. After unloading we arranged the plants by laying them out, taking sun and shade factors into consideration. One of the guys who has a background in this kind of stuff was really great at placing these... and so we decided that the one with the most experience shall lead the way. With plants in the desired locations... we began digging and planting. The earth was a little challenging... we used picks to get down into the hard stuff to loosen it to make proper homes for the plants to live in. Then everything was watered thoroughly. Lastly, the cute little pumpkins were placed about, to add some color and keep the squirrels busy.

The butterfly bushes are doing their job and attracting loads of butterflies. If you have not seen them.. stop by in the next day or two. We found a lot of worms too... something we had not seen last July when we started.. so the soil has improved. And it's organic since we do not treat the plants with chemicals.

Thanks to all the hard working folks that ventured out on Saturday to help improve our park and make a positive difference in such a short period of time.

Residents Enjoy New Benches

2006-10-04T14:20:00.000-04:00

Last week, a total of six new benches were installed inside the Hamilton Park, and residents began using them immediately.

There has been a lack of seating in the park and for many years people have been sitting on the concrete bunkers and on steps leading up to the bandstand. The new benches are located in the central, social gathering area and provide seating for special events and relaxation.

The classy (Worlds Fair) benches can be seen throughout NY's Central Park, were selected by downtown residents a year ago, are heavy duty, stylish and were donated by Newport Associates.

www.Newportnj.com

www.theshoreatnewport.com

Residents appreciate the generous donation to our community park.

Fall Cleanup & Planting Event - Sat. Oct. 7

2006-09-26T16:12:00.000-04:00

Hamilton Park - Garden Cleanup & Planting

Saturday October 7
9:00 am - 2:00 pm

The gardens are in need of cleaning up. Plans are to rake leaves, cut back overgrown shrubs, pick up litter, plant colorful fall mums, hardy roses, and spring bulbs (to surprise us next year) and we'll adorn the gardens with an assortment of festive pumpkins. During lunchtime we'll discuss our future plans, and accepting new members.

Rakes, tools, gloves and plants will be provided as well as lunch for all residents that wish to volunteer some time.

Don't be shy. Just meet us by the bandstand in the center of the park. No experience is necessary.

Last Day of Farmers Market is Sept. 27

2006-09-26T16:06:00.000-04:00

The last day of the Hamilton Park Farmers Market will be Wednesday, September 27th. Thank you to all those that supported the market for it's second year! It was another great success and we look forward to planning our third season in Hamilton Park and adding more vendors. Thank you Peaceful Valley Orchards, Hoboken Farms, Sassy Sweet Treats, Lluvia Soaps, Fetch-it By the Park, Relax & Renew and Dr. Pickle! You are the Hamilton Park Farmers Market.

View Architect Drawings

2006-08-30T09:09:00.000-04:00

The Jersey Journal

IN YOUR OPINION

Tuesday, August 29, 2006

Hamilton Park
Plans on Display

Tomorrow, (Wednesday August 30th), there will be an opportunity for the public to view the architect drawings for the renovation of historic Hamilton Park and provide feedback to our city officials. The meeting will take place in the former St. Francis Hospital, located directly on the park between Eighth & Ninth streets at 7 p.m.

The initial drawing is based on surveys completed last year and will include moving current structures that exist in the park now, as well as adding more. In order to accommodate the space needed for relocating/adding structures would also require removing several trees. I would like residents to be aware of what is involved as the trees will be chopped down in great numbers in order to provide space.

It's a small, residential park located in the historic district and is surrounded by turn of the century brownstones and brick row houses. Structures should be kept to a minimum and be based on our residents 'top' needs as it's not possible to pack everything in without removing trees.

Any resident concerned about what is being planned for this park renovation or concerned that large, historic trees will be cut in Hamilton Park, I urge you to attend this meeting.

JANET ALLEN
PRESIDENT, FRIENDS OF HAMILTON PARK
JERSEY CITY

Pickles return to the market

2006-07-17T15:21:00.000-04:00

Dr. Pickle returns to the Hamilton Park Farmers Market on Wed. July 19th.

If you visited our market last season, surely you remember Dr. Pickle!

Nothing says I love you like a great jar of pickles. Holiday meals or just a snack, pickles are always great. The pickles are always fresh and delicious because that's all they do and the product is made at their plant in Paterson, New Jersey.

Sour Pickles, 3/4 sour pickles, new pickles, kosher dill, full garlic pickles, pickled sweet peppers, hot peppers, relish, sour kraut, sour tomatoes, marinated mushrooms, sun dried tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, pitted green olives or martini olives, green cracked olives, spicy mixed olives, kalamata olives, black olives.

Stop by this Wednesday!

FARMERS KEEP IT FRESH

2006-07-17T15:17:00.000-04:00

Local farmers' markets offer fresh foods, sweet deals
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
By SYLVIA MOSSER
JERSEY JOURNAL STAFF WRITER

Skip the grocery store aisles this summer and pick up dinner at a local park or town square instead. There are six farmers' markets to choose from in Jersey City and Hoboken alone.

At Hamilton Park's farmers' market in Downtown Jersey City, Nella Panella, who works for Peaceful Valley Orchards, Pittstown, said their sweet corn on the cob is the "best corn." Panella and co-worker Kate Storks even eat it raw, claiming that noshing on a cob of their sweet corn is the best on a hot day.

"Grocery stores get their produce fast, but we pick it that morning and bring it here (to Hamilton Park)," Panella said.

Storks said the zucchini is also very good, as well as their ripe peaches.

But you won't just find fresh fruits and vegetables, there are other inspirational foods for all summer grilling needs.

Based out of Hoboken, Brad Finkel, founder and owner of Hoboken Farms, boasts having the "best burgers you can find."

The aged sirloin and marbled chuck burgers took over a year to perfect. They sell eight for $14.50, and Finkel said they can barely keep them in stock. They also sell local artisan breads, fresh mozzarella, steak, poultry and seafood.

Peggy Samuels, also of Hoboken Farms, said that Hamilton Park's market starts to pick up around 5 or 5:30 p.m. when commuters come looking for food options.

For dessert, Meg Cohen, who organizes the Newport farmers' market, suggests picking up "the whip cream ready" some ripe, peak season strawberries perfect for strawberry pie or tart.
The Newport market is a big stop for Path train commuters who live in the apartment buildings and condos at Newport. Cohen said that the ideally located market near restaurants, stores and homes add even more to the vitality of the area.

"For a lot of people in Jersey City getting fresh vegetables that were picked and transported here is very special," said Cohen.

Path commuters can also stop at Journal Square for fruits, veggies and delicious muffins, pies and other homebaked goodies.

The markets are also a source of saving. The state encourages families to do their food shopping at the markets with WIC, a special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants and children up to 5 years. The Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program also provides eligible seniors with farmers' market food coupons.

Farmers Market Returns to Hamilton Park

2006-06-28T11:15:00.000-04:00

Every Wednesday 2 - 7 pm

The market takes place in the center of Hamilton Park (Jersey Ave & 8th St.) by the gazebo and is rain or shine.

Fresh local produce grown on a New Jersey Farm. Heirloom tomatos, sweet corn, fresh mozzarella, ravioli, crab cakes, free range chicken cutlets, frozen shrimp, artisan breads & rolls, farm fresh eggs, honey, jams & jellies, herbs, pies/baked goods, homemade chocolate chip, shortbread and peanut butter cookies and natural soaps. Occasionally you will also find habenero hot barbecue sauce, pet treats & toys, iced tea with mint/lemons, tea/biscuts/tea accessories and $1. per minute chair massage.

Our farmer is Peaceful Valley Orchard and they accept WIC. Our vendors include Hoboken Farms, Sassy Sweet Treats, Lluvia Soaps, Janam Tea, Fetch-it Pet Supplies, Relax & Renew and EvilHot.

Come enjoy nature's bounty and meet your neighbors. For more information, call 201-388-4506.

Donating to the Friends of Hamilton Park is Easy!

2006-06-04T00:22:00.000-04:00

Donations can be made in any amount to help support us with:

The Hamilton Park Farmers Market (advertising, fliers, license)

Hamilton Park Garden Planting Projects (perennial & annual plants, bulbs, fencing, stakes, garden hose, nozzles, gloves, tools, food, refreshments, etc.)

Park Cleanup & Improvements (rakes, garbage & leaf bags, gloves, paint, oil stain, brushes, drop cloths and pizza)

Holiday & Cultural Events (holiday decorations & lighting, Halloween gift bags, pumpkins, cornstalks, haybales, cupcakes, cookies, cider, eggnog, music & advertising)

Make checks payable to:
Friends of Hamilton Park

Send to:
Friends of Hamilton Park
c/o Contreras
705 Jersey Ave.
Jersey City, NJ 07302

Donations are greatly appreciated in any amount!

GARDENING 2006: Spring Planting with Goldman Sachs and Community Volunteers

2006-05-08T22:04:00.000-04:00

Saturday May 6th
Spring Planting & Garden Cleanup in Hamilton Park

This spring we decided to "go for it" by adding four good size specimens to the gardens. Cedar Grove Nursery delivered two Colorado Blue Spruce trees and two Blue Atlas Cedar trees (skinny trees with tiny little pinecones). The guys pulled together to manuever these into the dolly and hoist them up over the beds, through the openings in the fence and get them to their places. This took some time as the holes needed to be large enough to accommodate the root balls. The trees look fabulous and the garden is really starting to take shape.

More perennials and annuals were added and volunteers recycled the left over rocks by creating little gardens within the garden itself. It really adds a homemade touch and isn't something you see in an urban setting. But it's here in Hamilton Park and they really are very special.

Let me first start out by thanking the FVVP and the Jersey City Parks Coaltion for their assistance and support. And if you missed this event, there will be three more park planting events coming up in Pershing Field, Ercel Webb Park and Van Vorst Park as part of Project Camelot.

Thank you to Basic Foods for donating the platters of pecan cookies to compliment our lunch consisting of deli meat sandwiches, tuna and hummus with pita breads and olives. We snacked on these throughout the day, before during and after lunch.

Thank you to the Dept. of Parks & Forestry for delivering the mulch, top soil, wheel barrels, shovels and for coming back to clean up the mess we made.

Thanks to the hard working community residents that volunteered to spend the day with us and worked so hard, including the team that tackled that super gross, overgrown area around the gazebo. (They were too busy working to join us in the group photo!) It took them all day to cut back the bushes, shrubs and clean out the bags of litter so that we can see what's going on in there, keep it safe, and prepare the area for some smaller but attractive future plants.

And lastly, a tremendous big thank you to Goldman Sachs. We've been looking forward to this day and it was a lot of fun working together. We hope you'll come back again next year as you're always welcome. Hamilton Park is a whole lot better because of you and we appreciate it and dig our tee-shirts and caps! Our hearts say thank you!

GARDEN TEAM WORKS 2006

2006-04-05T13:23:00.000-04:00

Volunteer Spring Planting Event
Your invited to help the Friends of Hamilton Park along with Goldman Sachs volunteers and community residents as we clean up the Hamilton Park flower gardens and plant new flowers, shrubs and mini trees!

A healthy lunch and music will be provided.

Saturday May 6, 2006
9:00 am - until we finish up
Meet us by the Gazebo in Hamilton Park at Jersey Ave. and Eighth Street.

The project will involve cleaning up leaves, trash and debris, digging holes, planting, watering, mulching, labeling plants and replacing sections of the lattice fence and post.

We are currently FUNDRASING for a new and better fence and will be asking residents what kind of fence they would like to see around the gardens. Please stop by to VOTE.

Project Agenda
09:00 am Sign-in, grab a bite and a pair of work gloves
09:15 am Brief introduction; break into teams and work begins in gardens
12:00 pm Break for Lunch
12:30 pm Work continues; mulch, water
02:00 pm Clean up
03:00 pm Thank you and see you again!

No experience necessary. Wear comfortable clothes and bring some energy! This event is open to all Jersey City residents.

Brought to you by the Friends of Hamilton Park and Sponsored by the City of Jersey City.

Rain date is Sunday May 7th. For more information, please call 201-388-4506.

FARMERS MARKET 2006

2006-04-05T12:07:00.000-04:00

Hamilton Park Farmers Market
Every Wednesday in the Hamilton Park
2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
The market begins June 21st and will run through October

Depending on the part of the growing season we are in, you can expect to find various varieties of tomatos, sweet corn, lettuce, peppers, squash, eggplant, beets, beans, peas, cauliflower, broccoli, zucchini,, apples, strawberries and peaches. Also available will be farm fresh eggs, artisan baked breads & rolls, pies, honey, jellies and jams, herbs, mozzarella cheese, ravioli, crab cakes, frozen shrimp, barbecue sauce, chocolate chip cookies, natural homemade soaps and more.

GOVERNMENT WIC CHECKS ARE ACCEPTED BY PEACEFUL VALLEY ORCHARDS.

2006 Farmer & Vendors:

Peaceful Valley Orchards
Hoboken Farms
Lluvia Soaps
Sassy Sweet Treats

Fetch-it Pet Supplies
Relax & Renew Chair Massage

Janam Tea

EvilHot Habenero Sauce

If you would like to join the market, please call 201-388-4506.

Brought to you by the Friends of Hamilton Park.

Save The Date

2006-02-20T22:28:00.000-05:00

Before...

AFTER!!

SAVE THE DATE... Saturday May 6, 2006

Attracting butterflies to a garden

2006-02-20T22:27:00.000-05:00

Butterflies are a sign of an eco-friendly garden, like this monarch butterly!

Common garden plants that help to attract butterflies are: aster, azalea, beebalm, black-eyed susan, butterflybush, coreopsis, cosmo, daisy, daylily, hibiscus, lavender, lilac, marigold, mint, phlox, purple coneflower, purple sage, rosemary, salvia, sedum, sunflower, verbena, and zinnia.

Most garden insecticides can kill the caterpillar stages of the insects, and adult butterflies also can be killed by resting on insecticide-treated surfaces. So it's best not to use these products if you'd like to have more colorful vistors in your garden patch.

Cool Garden Boots for $19.99

2006-02-20T17:24:00.000-05:00

Between gardening projects in Hamilton and Van Vorst Park and the Brunwick Community Garden, I've come home many times with dirty socks and filthy feet. I decided to invest in a pair of rubber boots that I can hose down to keep them clean, and my feet stay clean too!

They come in all different colors... solids, stripes, plaids, dots, etc. There's a pair for you!

Buy em online! www.target.com

Come out and help us garden this spring, and wear your cool new boots!

GARDENING 2005: Fall Planting

2006-02-19T23:50:00.000-05:00

Recycled boulders & rocks

Fall Planting in Hamilton Park
Come and help us tuck some plants into the earth and say hello to your neighbors! You're invited to help the Friends of Hamilton Park on our Fall planting day as we prepare the beds with compost, plant an assortment of perennials, bulbs and colorful "mums" and install a temporary fence.

Well be gathering in Hamilton Park by the bandstand on Saturday September 24th at 9:00 a.m. and will be working all day, until we finish up. Lunch, local apples and refreshments will be provided to all volunteers. No experience is necessary. Just bring some energy. Rain date is Sunday 9/25.
----------------------------
Thanks to the 14th Street Garden Center, Bouquets & Baskets, Reliable Wood Products, Simple Cafe, Deep Blue, Melt, Basic, Post Net and the community residents that donated to our Fall planting project and to all those residents that volunteered your time to help us. It looks great!

As you can see, there is plenty of room for more plants. Come and join us next spring to help us care and maintain the gardens and add more perennials and flowers.

TREE LIGHTING 2005

2006-02-19T23:32:00.000-05:00

All lights were donated by the Home Depot.

Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony in Hamilton Park

On Saturday November 26th, the Friends of Hamilton Park will host a holiday tree lighting ceremony in the Hamilton Park, located at Jersey Ave. and Eighth Streets. Everyone is welcome.

We will gather in the park at 5:00 PM to kick off the holiday season by lighting up both the gazebo and large pine tree. Lights to be turned on promptly at 5:10 pm. Refreshments, cookies and holiday music will be available.

HALLOWEEN 2005 - Pet Costume Parade & Party

2006-02-19T23:15:00.000-05:00

Jim Beam
1st place pooch!

Hoola dancer
A runner up.

Costume Parade & Party in Hamilton Park
Fetch-it Pet Supplies in conjunction with the Friends of Hamilton Park, Groomingdales and Deep Blue invite you to a Halloween Pet Costume Parade & Party in Hamilton Park. The event is on Saturday October 29th at 4:00 P.M. and will take place directly in the park, located at 8th Street and Jersey Ave in Jersey City.

Prizes & gift certificates will be given to the "best dressed" pets. Refreshments and Halloween treats will be available, as well as doggie treat bags! This is a family event and anyone may attend and participate. Come out to party with us, bring your kids, bring your pets, and watch the best-dressed pets on parade, wearing goofy costume attire and winning some fabulous prizes! Please note that all dogs participating in this event must be on a leash.

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Thanks to the 14th Street Garden Center for the cornstalks, hay and pumpkins!

GARDENING 2005: Summer Planting

2006-02-19T09:08:00.000-05:00

Many helped beautify park

Wednesday, August 10, 2005

Letters to the Editor

The Jersey Journal

On July 30 and 31, the Friends of Hamilton Park led dozens of community residents in creating two ornamental gardens in Hamilton Park in Jersey City.

Located in the historic district at Jersey Avenue and Eighth Street, the 4.8-acre Hamilton Park is surrounded by beautiful late-19th century homes. With the exception of the landscaping around the center bandstand, this park's development has lacked Victorian gardens. These new gardens bring positive change to the park, and we hope the gardens will bring charm for many generations to come.

The planting was made possible by Vince Giordano's 14th Street Garden Center, which donated ornamental trees and shrubs, perennials and annuals. Vince and his crew even helped us plant the largest one because it was too heavy for us to move.

Doug Riddick and Allison Martin, of Home Depot, also donated a variety of perennials, roses, annuals and garden hoses. Reliable Wood Products donated and delivered compost.

Thanks to Parks and Forestry Director Rodney Hadley and Public Works Director John Yurchak for having their crews help break up the hard soil, deliver topsoil, red mulch and for giving us water access. And to PMJ Corporation, the Armagno Agency and Downtown Hardware.

To feed our hungry volunteers, platters of salad, fried calamari, eggrolls, chicken wings, grilled cheese sandwiches and cookies were donated by Downtown restaurants Simple, Melt and Basic.

Thanks to Downtown Councilman Steve Fulop and his crew for donating the money for the garden fences and helping to install them. Steve got himself good and dirty helping us plant and also donated the pizzas and bottled water on Sunday.

Thanks to Dr. Clifford Waldman and the Jersey City Parks Coalition, Dinah and Ray Boliver, Melissa Nagiel, Julio Contreras, Elizabeth Onorato, Julie Behounek, Elisabeth Oldmixon, Joe Olha and William Rozinski, and the many community volunteers who came out and worked so hard to help create our beautiful new gardens.

JANET ALLEN
FRIENDS OF HAMILTON PARK JERSEY CITY

Click here to view a slideshow of our July planting event, courtesy of dojo-mojo:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/dojo-mojo/sets/674416/show/

Gearing up for the 2006 Farmers Market

2006-02-18T16:50:00.000-05:00

The Jersey Fresh Farmers Market in Hamilton Park will return again this spring and we're grateful that Peaceful Valley Orchards and Hoboken Farms will be returning. Planning for the market starts early, therefore, if you're interested in joining us to sell homemade items, please call 201-388-4506.

Our New Jersey Farmer comes from Pittstown, NJ. Read all about them here: http://www.peacefulvalleyorchards.com/history.html

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Thanks to Melt for grilling and delivering hot grilled cheese sandwiches straight to the 2005 market and to the Hamilton Park Ale House for the wonderful hors d'ouvres made with fresh produce from the farmers market.

Blizzard of 2006: Ssshhhhh..... sleeping plants.

2006-02-12T23:04:00.000-05:00

The blizzard of 2006 has hit but the plants are quiet and resting comfortably. The snow is a natural protector, providing insulation and eventually, a good drink. These plants worked hard last year and deserve this peaceful rest in order to prepare for spring.

GARDENING 2005: Fall Cleanup

2006-01-12T09:38:00.000-05:00

Members and volunteers helped to clean up the perennial gardens by raking leaves and trash. Plants were labeled for identification and bulbs were planted. Then we tackled the gardens around the gazebo which wasn't quite as fun. This dense and litter filled area got a face lift as we significantly cut back the overgrown shrubs and filled bags with trash, clothing, licquer bottles, a needle, and what appeared to be stolen merchandise ink tags. Because the area was so dense you couldn't see behind the bushes or the activity that took place out of sight. The area was cleaned up and we'll be back again next spring to tackle it again.

Day Trip to Metropolitan Museum of Art

2006-01-06T15:11:00.000-05:00

The Friends of Hamilton Park are planning a day trip to visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC on Saturday January 7th.

The Plan:
We'll meet up at Basic coffee shop on the corner of 8th & Erie at 9:00 AM. We'll walk to the PATH and hop on the NYC subway. Once inside the MET you may stay with us as we tour the museum or you may break off on your own. We plan to return back to Jersey City around 4:00 pm.

Lunch:
We'll set a time to meet up for lunch. You can either bring a packed lunch or purchase food at the Met.

Cost:
There is no charge to join us for the day trip, except for your own transportation fees. The museum will ask for a suggested donation at the door. Anyone is welcome to join us for the MET day trip.

If you're interested in going with us, remember to meet us at Basic no later than 9:00 AM on Saturday January 7th and bring a little cash for your travel, lunch and admission to the MET.

For more information, call 201-388-4506.

http://www.metmuseum.org/

What's that hay in the garden?

2005-12-30T08:57:00.000-05:00

The garden is taking a rest for the winter. It is covered with hay, and is very cozy!

Hay is an excellent cold-weather mulch and is preferred by many experienced gardeners. Unlike whole leaves that can pack down and become dense, wet and invite mold, hay protects plants from frost heave due to changing temperatures and is quite beneficial for improving soil quality.

In the springtime, much of the hay mulch will be broken down and be incorporated into the earth The leftover hay will be raked out and discarded and new perennials will be planted and/or moved to prevent overcrowding. After a thorough spring weeding, planting and garden cleanup, fresh mulch will be distributed over the entire garden beds to protect plants throughout the hot summer by helping to maintain moisture and to prevent weeds from popping up.

JC List Party tonight - 3 prizes donated by FoHP!

2005-12-13T16:15:00.000-05:00

2nd Annual JC List Holiday Meet & Greet

Date: Tuesday December 13th
Time: 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Location: The Merchant Bar & Restaurant, 279 Grove Street

Finger Foods & Snacks
Drink Specials: $4.00 Martini's
Prize Giveaways: gift certificates from Ria's Cafe, Taqueria, Legal Grounds, JANAM Tea and Sweet Priscilla's as well as 3 prizes from FoHP!

This is a downtown community event and you're invited!

Don't be shy. Bring friends or come alone, have a drink, eat some munchies, say hello and just maybe you'll win a great prize!

Welcome to FoHP site!

2005-12-13T10:10:00.000-05:00

What is FoHP?

It stands for the Friends of Hamilton Park and pronounced fop.

The Creation of FoHP:

The FoHP formed in the summer of 2005. It all started with a public meeting on a warm summer evening in the Hamilton Park located on Jersey Avenue and Eighth Street in Jersey City. Interested residents gathered on the gazebo steps to hear plans for the creation of a community perennial garden project, approved by the City of Jersey City, and spearheaded by (FoHP Founder) Janet Allen. From this meeting, active volunteers stepped forward to play a role in the planning stages for the perennial gardens, and who later went onto form the Friends of Hamilton Park.

2005 Accomplishments & Hamilton Park Events:

Spearheading, planning & managing the farmers market

Creation & maintenance of new perennial community gardens

Fall garden & gazebo cleanup and planting spring bulbs

Halloween Pet Costume Parade & Party (co-sponsored by Fetch-it)

Holiday Gazebo & Tree Lighting Ceremony

Our Purpose:

The FoHP was organized exclusively for the purpose of the promotion of the social welfare to include charitable activities which will bring about civic betterment and social improvements and will focus on landscaping and community gardens, farmers market, cultural and holiday events and park improvements.

FoHp is a member of the J.C. Parks Coalition.