Hudson County women are putting the pedal to the metal as they see the pandemic in the rearview mirror.
H
udson County joins the entire world in being devastated economically by the pandemic. Small businesses, the bedrock of the county’s economy, were hit especially hard. But now, as vaccines become available, as we feel spring in the air, and celebrate Women’s History Month, things are looking up.
New Jersey’s economy is in part driven by Hudson County businesses, large and small. More businesses are on the way because Hudson County is an ideal business environment due to its location in the metropolitan New York City market, access to public transportation, and local amenities.
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Call: 201-864-2095 bodynbrain.com/secaucus
N UM LLET B E FO ED A • • J A TA Z S R Z H BA I C H • H UD S I • I P SO ED C O H O N SC N T E P • T C HO M P O A P O U LA R A R• M N O T Y RS Y • D E R Y HIP G Y M N • O U S A NASBELL TH V T I I C • A AI S & Y O G LA T U G A ES B M • 7- LE B L I N G 17
Home Base Franchise 225 Moller Street, Secaucus
NM-00455246
B Z A
KENNEDY DANCERS
ONE ON ONE INDIVIDUAL CLASSES – SMALL GROUP CLASSES SPECIAL ONE MONTH DISCOUNT $99 JOIN ON LINE THRU ZOOM
INC. A Non-Profit Organization Artistic Director Diane Dragone
79 Central Avenue
Jersey City, NJ 07306 201-659-2190 http://kennedydancers.org
OLD GIRLS’ NETWORK
WOMEN continued The economy of Hudson County employs some 400,000 people with the largest industries being Professional, Scientific and Technical Services, Health Care and Social Assistance, and the Retail Trade. It’s home to one of the country’s most diverse populations, and, significantly, many women business owners and entrepreneurs. About 40 percent of businesses are reportedly women owned, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Meanwhile, more and more women are joining the workforce and venturing out on their own. Hudson County and the Hudson County Chamber of Commerce have programs, such as the Women of Commerce Cohort Group, that support women in business.
Men have always networked, formally or informally with golf outings or just enjoying the benefits of the old boys’ network. Women need more networking to better their chances of success, whether it’s through a pool of like-minded entrepreneurs and mentors or just talking to each other. Among chamber initiatives is the Town & Gown, with Saint Peter’s University in which chamber members who want planning projects for their businesses are paired with their own pro-bono team of consultants composed of Saint Peter’s University seniors majoring in Business Administration, and their professors. This is a helpful tool for women in business. The chamber also launched the Women of Commerce Council in 2020 to provide educational programs, leadership and mentoring programs to women, whether they are entrepreneurs or sidepreneurs, seasoned or just starting out.To learn more, email info@ hudsoncounty.org.
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Adele Harris SECAUCUS BODY & BRAIN YOGA | TAI CHI My name is Adele Harris, and I am a lifelong resident of Secaucus. I started studying Body & Brain Yoga Tai Chi in 2006 at a studio in Ridgefield. After the first class, I immediately felt a difference in my mood. I felt a heavy weight had lifted from my heart. I found this type of yoga does not put emphasis on correct postures but on feeling your body and changing your energy. After
a few months, my body condition also improved. My stomach did not feel bloated, my tension headaches disappeared, and I could sleep better. I had more energy to do things instead of putting them off. My friends even noticed I looked more relaxed. My relationship with my husband improved. I stopped nagging him about every little thing and was more cheerful at home. As I continued my training, I let go of a lot of stress and tension that I’d carried for many years on my shoulders and in my heart. I have been a member of the Body & Brain Yoga Tai Chi national organization since that first day. I continued my studies to become a Yoga Master in 2010, and in 2015 became a Franchisee of my own home base yoga tai chi center. Because of my emotional and physical healing, I wanted to share what I learned with others. Therefore, I also taught classes at drug and alcohol rehabilitation hospitals, senior centers, local businesses, and libraries before the pandemic. During the warmer weather, I teach classes in the parks. Through my personal one-on-one attention and small group classes, there are many physical, mental, and spiritual benefits. Because of the current health crisis, I also offer classes through Zoom.
Dr. Robin Lucas
Diane Dragone
LUCAS DENTAL ASSOCIATES
KENNEDY DANCERS REPERTORY COMPANY
Dentistry today is the most modern it has ever been in our history, making this an exciting time to be a dentist. With the increasing demands on our lives, it takes a unique set of talents and skills to not just practice dentistry, but to lead multiple offices, be a mommy, wife, and mentor, and do these jobs well. As the owner of Lucas Dental Associates, Dr. Robin Lucas and her team exist to provide outstanding, modern, and painless dental care while educating and customizing each treatment plan to the needs of that individual. When asked what the secret to her success is, the response is one word: caring. Among her many great qualities are her patience, keen listening skills, and respect for her patient’s time. The focus of her practice is prevention, aesthetics, rehabilitation, and clear aligner treatment such as Invisalign. As health care providers on the frontlines, this is a privilege and a huge responsibility that Dr. Lucas does not take for granted. This year marks 20 years of practice in Hoboken where Dr. Robin Lucas has expanded her business to two locations, adding pediatric dentistry due to the changing local demographics. She credits her dynamic team for keeping her in line and allowing her to focus on the important things, such as meeting the needs of her patients. Among many notable distinctions, Dr. Lucas has been featured in the NY Post, Fios 1 news, The Network Journal, and Hoboken 07030 magazine. Fun fact: Dr. Lucas is an awesome dancer, Salsa being her favorite. Schedule an appointment today to experience Compassionate Care Resulting in Beautiful Smiles.
Diane Dragone is the founding director/choreographer/teacher of the Kennedy Dancers Repertory Company and the Kennedy Dancers School, founded in 1977. Diane created the Dance curriculum for the Hudson County Schools of Technology. She taught the gifted and talented and special education dance programs at Hudson County High Tech and Hudson County prep schools as well as classes at the Hudson County Juvenile Detention center. She was a returning guest teacher of dance at Hudson County Community College. Diane is a certified teacher of dance in the state of New Jersey. During her career she has performed and created countless choreographies for many regional dance, theater, and opera companies. The Kennedy Dancers have performed in more than 400 grammar, high schools, and universities and performed in theaters up and down the eastern seaboard, including at the White House and in U.S.O. tours. The Kennedy Dancers are six-time award winners of Citations of Excellence from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Diane is the executive producer of the eight-time award winning cable television program “Dance Vista” seen on assorted cable tv systems in 22 states and beyond. Diane Dragone and The Kennedy Dancers, Inc., through program funding, have offered opportunities for at-risk youth, children with disabilities, low-income families, and senior citizens to take dance, fitness, and exercise classes.
CELEBRATING
20 YEARS IN BUSINESS
20% OFF GLO CHAIRSIDE WHITENING PROCESS includes take home light accelerator and product. OFFER ENDS APRIL 30TH|MAJOR INSURANCES ACCEPTED
ROBIN LUCAS, DMD • PA 232 Bloomfield Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030
201.798.8899
NM-00425486
www.lucasdental.com
It also is a conduit between business and local, state, and federal business opportunities. The HCOBO helps businesses identify county resources, increase their customer bases, and find local funding opportunities.
WOMEN continued
GETTING CERTIFIED The county has a variety of resources to help support women business owners, and business owners in general. One assists businesses in becoming certifiedwoman-owned businesses, meaning that the business has the requisite compliance that makes it eligible for competitive advantages and opportunities. According to the Hudson County Office of Business Opportunity (HCOBO), securing a certification from government or the private sector improves a company’s ability to compete for exclusive contracting opportunities. The office helps businesses identify which certifications best fit their business models and provide the best financial prospects.
FINANCING AND FUNDING The HCOBO works with the county to identify “Set-Aside” opportunities. This is a competitive process in which only certified businesses can compete for 10 percent of the county’s total spending on all goods and services. The Hudson County Economic Development Corporation, a nonprofit that serves all 12 municipalities in Hudson County, also helps businesses through loan and funding assistance. It helps identify opportunities for economic assistance available from federal and state programs, including the Grow New Jersey Assistance Program and Urban Enterprise Zone incentives. It also partners with lenders
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Annette Rubin
ments, Annette has consistently achieved certification in the New Jersey Association of Realtors’ Circle of Excellence designation since 2002. She is a knowledgeable and enthusiastic individual, and those qualities are quite apparent in her work. Annette was recently named New Jersey Monthly magazine’s Five Star Professional for the 9th year. Annette has lived in Bayonne for 34 years, and has been the owner of the EXIT office since 2005. She is the proud mom of four sons and their families – including her four beautiful grandchildren. She has been involved with the Bayonne Chamber of Commerce for many years, currently serving as Vice President. She was recently inducted as the current President of the Liberty Board of Realtors. EXIT On the Hudson Realty maintains its status as a top producing, award winning office through the teamwork of more than 60 agents and staff, and continues to grow, train, and serve communities throughout much of Northern New Jersey.
EXIT ON THE HUDSON REALTY Dedicated to providing attentive service to her clients, Annette Rubin brings a 20-year history of solid Real Estate experience in both sales and rentals. Among her many accomplish-
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Beverly Karch, Realtor, RSPS 5 Years Circle Of Excellence
Cell: 609-709-9202 | beverlyakarch@gmail.com https://beverlykarch.zackshore.com/ | https://www.zillow.com/profile/BeverlyKarch/#reviews.
EXIT ON THE HUDSON REALTY Even in a challenging year as we have just seen, it has been a whirlwind of activity, of growth, and progress. We are proud to highlight our top 3 “Women in Business” and our very competent and courteous support staff as well. Our office enjoys a team spirit atmosphere uncommon in the Real Estate business… and we are delighted by it.
Cindy Guarini
Kelly Mazza
HUDSON DNA
Hudson DNA can handle all your DNA, Drug and Alcohol Testing needs. Services include urine drug testing; urine alcohol; breath alcohol; hair follicle testing (rapid or lab based); and saliva. Other services include DNA testing for Immigration from start to finish, and Legal or Non-Legal DNA testing for paternity, maternity, siblingship, and grand parentage. All tests are sent to accredited labs approved by the DOT and the American Association of Blood Banks. Hudson DNA and Drug Testing is a preferred collection site for Q-Passport, eScreen, and many other labs Hudson DNA is unique because it offers onsite testing, 24/7 phone support, flexible hours, and operates by appointment in a private, comfortable, and confidential setting. The office is soothing, relaxing, and decorated beautifully. Kelly and Cindy have carried over their community-based spirit and support of charities to Hudson Testing. Their charitable organizations reflect their love of their dogs and animals in general, but if asked, they will help anyone. Every Valentine’s Day, one lucky animal rescue gets an extra big donation.
With a combined 40-plus years in their own businesses, Kelly Mazza and Cindy Guarini partnered two years ago to continue the legacy of the late Dr. Robert Mazza, with Hudson DNA and Drug Testing, LLC. Kelly and Cindy were business neighbors in the late 90s in the Marion section of Jersey City and kept in touch through their business relationships. Cindy was a patient of Dr. Mazza at his chiropractic office as well as a Reiki client of Kelly’s. Through Facebook, Cindy and Kelly reconnected and began discussing the pros and cons of being sole proprietors. Cindy, always looking for new endeavors, offered to partner with Kelly, and, as they say, the rest is history. They moved their office to 150 Pulaski Lane West, Bayonne, near the port, where it is common to see trucks and warehouses. They chose this location because a portion of their business is working under the Department of Transportation, keeping its trucking companies compliant in the drug-testing world. As they continually say, “You are in the right place.”
KATHLENE MEADOWS Our 2020 top producing agent, Kathlene has been a credit to the Real Estate community since 2004. She brings a level of professionalism and knowledge to all she does! Her expertise in residential real estate covers both sales and rentals, and customer service is always a priority. From studio apartments to milliondollar properties, you can count on a very positive experience!
CARMELLA LAUDANDO With 9 years’ experience in both commercial and residential real estate, Carmella earned top honors for 2020 for the volume of transaction sides she successfully completed. She has developed a wide customer base of landlords and investors that have come to trust her in assisting them in their real estate goals, whether managing or expanding their portfolios.
ANITA JAKUBOWSKI One of our most consistent top producing agents for over 20 years, Anita is a very dedicated and skilled agent. She has stayed focused through all the ups & downs of our market history, including several years specializing in negotiating Short Sales. Anita takes great pride in providing her clients with exceptional customer service…. And it comes back to her often in repeat & referral business.
OUR ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF There are 4 women that we must acknowledge as well – our wonderful administrative support staff – Nicole McMahon, Celine Pascual, Cheryl Manley Kelly, and Michele Menafro. These women keep our office humming! We are blessed to have them as an integral part of our “family”.
If you are looking for a Real Estate company that actually cares about you … You just found us!! Please call on us and our staff to assist you in any Real Estate needs, in Bayonne and throughout northern New Jersey
201-437-0411 . 867 Broadway, Bayonne ExitOnTheHudson.com NM-00455359
Independently owned and operated by Annette Rubin
WOMEN continued to provide a wide variety of loans and helps businesses explore their eligibility for available financing.
Hudson County offers a number of services to help business owners—women and men— access the resources they need to build and sustain healthy businesses. After a year of struggle, Hudson County’s small businesses and restaurants can start looking forward to a better future.
Janice Hall WEICHERT REALTORS Known to most as a real estate practitioner, Janice holds a lifetime membership in the New Jersey Realtors Distinguished Sales Club and the NJAR Circle of Excellence 2008-2020. She defines herself not by her sales transactions but by the lives she has impacted. Janice is Founder and President of “We Are GUTSY, Inc., a not-for-profit 501 (C) (3) organization that coaches attitudes and behavior to vulnerable children ages 3 to 12 in Guyana, South America. She is an active board member of several not-for-profit organizations in New Jersey, including the Madeline Fiadini LoRe Foundation for Cancer Prevention.
NM-00455346
“Thanks for your excellent advice, prompt replies and professional persistence in getting us through the sale of our house. We felt like we’ve had a friend helping us the whole time” — Margaret & Daniel Osnato
Janice Hall Broker/Realtor
201.584.6980 | 201.232.8577 | 201.333.4443 NJAR Circle of Excellence Sales Award 2008-2020 janice-hall.weichert.com | boatworksbayonne.com 273 Grove St. Jersey City
In Recognition of Women’s History Month We honor all the incredible women who are a part of the BCB Bank team and thank all women for their immeasurable contributions and accomplishments.
Here’s to Strong Women. May We Know Them. May We Be Them. May We Raise Them.
BAYONNE | HOBOKEN | JERSEY CITY For more information on BCB products, services and locations please visit our website at www.BCB.Bank