The Personal Injury Attorney in Hoboken, NJ, You Can Trust
Did you know that as a state, New Jersey has the 3rd most personal injury cases per capita? In fact, personal injury cases occurred at a rate of 30.34 per 100,000 capita, which is 218% higher than the national average of 9.53%. Perhaps even more alarming, personal injury cases account for 31% of New Jersey's entire caseload - 166% higher than the U.S. average, which lies at 11.65%. One look at those stats, and it's clear that thousands of men and women in New Jersey suffer from the unfortunate negligence of others.
The truth is, when an accident happens out of nowhere, even the most prepared New Jersey native can become a victim. Imagine driving home after a tough day at work, looking forward to relaxing, but suddenly, your life takes an unexpected turn due to someone else's negligence. Coping with the aftermath of personal injury accidents is a daunting task involving long-lasting pain, concerns about work, and worries about your loved ones.
Unfortunately, victims often fall prey to lowball settlement offers and provide official statements to insurance companies without a personal injury attorney in Hoboken, NJ. Once you accept a settlement offer or make an official statement, it becomes challenging to correct the situation. That's where William Gonzalez Law Group comes in - to protect your rights and fight on your behalf for the compensation you deserve.
Service Areas
The William Gonzalez Law Difference
William N. Gonzalez was Born in 1961 in the Bronx. He moved to Puerto Rico in 1973, where he attended Middle School, High School, and freshman year at the Catholic University of Ponce, Puerto Rico. Ultimately, he transferred to John Jay College of Criminal Justice C.U.N.Y., earning a B.A. degree in 1984.
After completing that achievement, he attended Seton Hall School of Law from 1987 through 1990, earning a J.D. and admission into the New Jersey State Bar. Shortly after, he began working for various law firms until2002, when he became a solo practitioner in the Township of West New York.
Since that time, he has dedicated his practice to serving the community with honesty, integrity, and hard work. His practice was founded with the main purpose of helping those who face crisis and are in need of a personal injury lawyer in Hoboken, NJ, who sticks by their side.
Mr. Gonzalez focuses on a range of personal injury cases, including but not limited to.
- Auto Accidents
- Truck Accidents
- Car Accidents
- Motorcycle Accidents
- Slip-and-Fall Accidents
- Workers' Compensation Cases
- DUI Cases
- Municipal Court Cases
If you're looking for a fearless attorney to fully represent you and to fight the good fight on your behalf, look no further than the William Gonzalez Law Group. Now that you're up-to-date on William Gonzalez's background and accomplishments, let's dig a little deeper into the nuances of personal injury law and the areas of law in which he focuses.
Common Types of Personal Injury Cases in New Jersey
While there are many different types of personal injury cases in New Jersey, some are more common than others - especially those that involve motor vehicles and driving under the influence. Some of the most common types of personal injury cases that William Gonzalez helps clients overcome include.
Did you know that driver error is the leading cause of car accidents in New Jersey? The truth is that negligent drivers don't pay attention. They also don't adhere to traffic laws or use the right safety precautions. They often cause serious injuries by.
- Driving Too Fast
- Talking or Texting While Driving
- Driving Under the Influence
- Making Improper Lane Changes
- Running Stop Signs and Red Lights
- Rear-Ending Other Drivers
If you have been injured in a car accident that was caused by someone else's negligence, it is important to have a personal injury attorney in Hoboken, NJ, whom you can rely on. Your lawyer will help protect your rights and fight for the maximum compensation possible according to local laws. Your car accident attorney will also collaborate with specialists such as investigators and accident reconstruction experts to determine the cause of your injury and establish who is responsible for any damages.
There are more than eleven million trucks that operate daily across the United States, with drivers who work long hours and carry sensitive materials. In 2016, there were over 470,000 large truck and semi accidents, with human error accounting for 90% of those accidents. Truck accidents can cause injuries in several ways, such as if a truck carrying hazardous materials explodes or spills its contents, causing damage to surrounding drivers and property. Commercial trucks can also jackknife or lose control of their steering wheel, which can result in injuries to the driver or others involved in the accident.
Due to the massive size of semi-trucks and other large commercial vehicles, accidents involving these vehicles often result in catastrophic injuries. If you have been injured due to a negligent truck driver who was speeding, distracted, impaired, or whose vehicle was poorly maintained, it's time to hire a trucks accident lawyer. Doing so quickly after your accident will help protect your rights against insurers and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
If you ride a motorcycle in New Jersey, you are at a higher risk of dying in an accident compared to other drivers. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are on the rise. The good news? William Gonzalez is highly skilled when it comes to representing motorcycle accident clients and the injuries they sustain, including.
- Injury from negligent drivers who are reckless, distracted, or are involved in blind-spot wrecks
- Injury due to serious road defects such as unsafe intersections, potholes, and more
If you were recently involved in a motorcycle accident because of another party's negligence, you can count on William Gonzalez as your advocate. It all starts with an initial consultation with a motorcycle injury attorney who truly understands New Jersey injury law.
If you have been injured while working, it can be a painful, confusing, and emotional experience. It can also be financially devastating for you and your family. Therefore, it is important to take the necessary steps to protect yourself and seek the guidance of a qualified workers' compensation lawyer in New Jersey. The William Gonzalez Law Group has been successfully assisting injured workers for years. Mr. Gonzalez's goal is to get the full compensation you need to cover your medical bills and take care of your family while you recover. If you've suffered an injury while on the job that resulted in lost wages or ongoing pain and suffering, it's time to fight for financial compensation.
Injuries resulting from trips, slips, and falls can be severe and may include fractures, brain trauma, neck, and back injuries, among others. Recovering from a serious fall can take months, and the victim may experience lifelong health issues and incur substantial medical bills.
However, in New Jersey, property owners have a legal obligation to maintain their property in a safe manner. If someone gets injured on their premises or property due to their negligence, the owner can be held liable. The victim has the right to file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for the cost of medical treatment, lost income, and pain and suffering caused by the injuries.
Some of the most common contributors to slip-and-fall accidents in New Jersey include.
- Poor Lighting
- Narrow Stairs
- Wet Floors
- Missing Handrails
- Uneven Flooring
- Defective Sidewalks
If you or someone you know has been a victim of a drunk driving accident, a personal injury lawyer in Hoboken, NJ, can provide assistance. Despite decades-long efforts by civic organizations to curb drunk driving, it remains a problem throughout the United States, including in New Jersey, which has strict DUI laws and enforcement.
William Gonzalez believes that prosecuting drunk driving accidents not only helps clients recover compensation for their injuries but also serves as a warning to others who may consider driving under the influence.
What are Personal Injuries in New Jersey?
When an accident, incident, or illness causes you physical injury or emotional pain and suffering, it is referred to as personal injury. For example, suppose you are involved in a car accident and experience a traumatic brain injury. In that case, you have the right to seek compensation for the expenses related to treating and recovering from your physical injuries. You're also entitled to financial compensation for the emotional distress you may have suffered as a result of the injury.
There are three general terms you should be familiar with as it relates to personal injury law in New Jersey:
- Pain and Suffering
- Bodily Harm
- Emotional Distress
Pain and Suffering in New Jersey
Experiencing pain and suffering is not always limited to physical injuries. It can also affect one's emotional well-being, which may require the help of a mental health professional to properly document. Consulting with a mental health professional can help determine the extent of any potential psychological issues that may have arisen from your incident.
To provide accurate documentation of your emotional pain and suffering, it is important to record how your daily activities have been impacted and how you may no longer be able to participate in activities that you once enjoyed. This might include difficulties in communication or the inability to enjoy outings that were once pleasurable.
Bodily Harm in New Jersey
When someone experiences physical injury as a result of an accident, such as a car accident, they may sue for compensation for the harm done to their body. This compensation can help cover the costs of medical bills, surgeries, physical therapy, home care equipment, or any other expenses needed to aid in their recovery from the injury.
Emotional Distress in New Jersey
Emotional distress can be difficult to prove, especially when it involves defamation of character or threats to one's physical safety. It's important to understand, however, that emotional distress is valid. You have the right to seek compensation for any fear or trauma you have experienced and should not hesitate to fight for what you deserve.
If you have suffered a serious injury due to an accident, it's time to protect yourself and your family with the help of a personal injury attorney in Hoboken, NJ. Unlike your lawyer, the insurance companies involved in your personal injury case are not on your side and are known for presenting offers that don't fairly compensate you for your losses.
How Negligence Affects Your Personal Injury Case in New Jersey
In New Jersey, determining who is legally responsible for an accident usually involves assessing the negligence of the person at fault. Proving negligence or negligent acts as the cause of serious injuries and damages can be one of the most challenging aspects of a personal injury case. While some accidents are just that - accidents - in other cases, such as drunk driving car accidents, it is clear that the act of criminal negligence caused the accident, and the person responsible should be held liable for the damages.
According to New Jersey law, there are four elements that must be covered when trying to prove negligence in personal injury cases. Those elements include the following.
In New Jersey, determining who is legally responsible for an accident usually involves assessing the negligence of the person at fault. Proving negligence or negligent acts as the cause of serious injuries and damages can be one of the most challenging aspects of a personal injury case. While some accidents are just that - accidents - in other cases, such as drunk driving car accidents, it is clear that the act of criminal negligence caused the accident, and the person responsible should be held liable for the damages.
Legal Duty
According to legal duty, the defendant has a responsibility to ensure the safety of the victim and prevent harm. In New Jersey, drivers have a legal obligation to operate their vehicles safely in regard to other vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. Businesses are legally obliged to maintain their premises in a safe manner, ensuring there are no hazards such as ice, snow, or slippery floors.
Breach of Duty
To prove that the defendant is responsible for an accident, it must be shown that they behaved in a way that they knew could cause harm to others. Additionally, it must be demonstrated that a reasonable person in the same situation would have acted differently. For instance, it is common knowledge that driving a car, truck, or motorcycle under the influence can lead to an accident.
Causation
One of the biggest reasons to hire a personal injury lawyer in Hoboken, NJ, is so they can prove that your injuries are a direct result of the other party's breach of duty. This means that you need to demonstrate that your injuries occurred due to the defendant's actions. To do so, it is recommended that you seek medical attention from a physician who can document your injuries and confirm that they were caused or worsened by the defendant's negligence. It is crucial to document your injuries with a doctor, as it can be difficult to obtain compensation for injuries that were not properly documented.
Damages
When filing a claim, you must show proof of loss, which may include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering compensation.
William Gonzalez Law Pro Tip
If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence, you should act fast to file a claim and hire a lawyer. In New Jersey, you only have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit or claim. If you fail to file a claim within the time frame set by the statute of limitations, you will lose your opportunity to do so. In most cases, if you attempt to file a claim after the two-year deadline, the defendant will file a motion to dismiss. There are very few exceptions where a personal injury claim may be filed beyond the two-year mark.
A Personal Injury Attorney in Hoboken, NJ, You Can Count On
The William Gonzalez Law Group specializes in helping you get back on track after a setback. With decades of experience in personal injury law, Mr. Gonzalez can assist you in cases such as car crashes, truck accidents, slip and fall incidents, motorcycle accidents, DUI accidents, workers' compensation cases, and more.
When you are unable to work, have mounting bills and medical expenses, and your quality of life is affected, you need a strong and reliable advocate on your side, and William Gonzalez is the man to call for help. Whether you need assistance with a complex personal injury case or need trustworthy, easy-to-understand legal advice, contact the William Gonzalez Law Group today.
Latest News in Hoboken, NJ
Boys Basketball: Hoboken vs Ridgefield Park, N2G2 Quarterfinals, March 3, 2025
John Jones | For NJ Advance Mediahttps://www.nj.com/galleries/QXDV4FOL2JAXVGHS7XCUUN4YIU/
1 / 35John Jones | For NJ Advance MediaBoys Basketball: Hoboken vs Ridgefield Park on March 3, 2025Nick Petruzzelli (5) of Hoboken passes the ball as Erind Kukaj (23) of Ridgefield Park defends during the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 2, Group 2, quarterfinal round boys basketball game at Hoboken High School in Hoboken, NJ on Monday, March 3, 2025...
1 / 35
John Jones | For NJ Advance Media
Boys Basketball: Hoboken vs Ridgefield Park on March 3, 2025
Nick Petruzzelli (5) of Hoboken passes the ball as Erind Kukaj (23) of Ridgefield Park defends during the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 2, Group 2, quarterfinal round boys basketball game at Hoboken High School in Hoboken, NJ on Monday, March 3, 2025Get Photo
2 / 35
John Jones | For NJ Advance Media
Boys Basketball: Hoboken vs Ridgefield Park on March 3, 2025
Parker Choea (1) of Ridgefield Park drives past Isiah Blanks (10) of Hoboken and Lamir Boxley (3) during the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 2, Group 2, quarterfinal round boys basketball game at Hoboken High School in Hoboken, NJ on Monday, March 3, 2025Get Photo
3 / 35
John Jones | For NJ Advance Media
Boys Basketball: Hoboken vs Ridgefield Park on March 3, 2025
Lamir Boxley (3) of Hoboken shoots a free throw during the closing seconds of the game at the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 2, Group 2, quarterfinal round boys basketball game against Ridgefield Park at Hoboken High School in Hoboken, NJ on Monday, March 3, 2025Get Photo
Subscribe to enjoy access to licensed print-quality downloads in this gallery.
Photos are waiting for you!
(Cancel anytime)
'Boil Water' Advisory Lifted In Hoboken After Main Break, City Gives Guidance
Caren Lissnerhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/hoboken/water-main-break-update-hoboken-boil-water-advisory-lifted
HOBOKEN, NJ — Hoboken has lifted its "boil water" advisory as of Friday morning, they said, but there's guidance before drinking it (see below).Veolia Water responded Monday night to a water main break near the Jersey City/Hoboken border.Thursday night, the city said, "Hoboken remains under a Boil Water Advisory following the Jersey City water main break, which is now repaired. Veolia collected water samples earlier today, which are being tested in accordance with regulatory guidelines."Friday a...
HOBOKEN, NJ — Hoboken has lifted its "boil water" advisory as of Friday morning, they said, but there's guidance before drinking it (see below).
Veolia Water responded Monday night to a water main break near the Jersey City/Hoboken border.
Thursday night, the city said, "Hoboken remains under a Boil Water Advisory following the Jersey City water main break, which is now repaired. Veolia collected water samples earlier today, which are being tested in accordance with regulatory guidelines."
Friday at 8:30 a.m., they announced that the advisory has been lifted, but residents should run their taps for a few minutes before consuming it.
The city said that more water main breaks could happen soon due to potential pressure fluctuations as Veolia Water flushes the hydrants to stabilize pressure.
Find out what's happening in Hobokenfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
City's Guidance
The city said:
"The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has lifted the boil water advisory in Hoboken.Water quality samples were taken on Thursday, Feb. 20, and tested shortly afterwards following the repair of the 36-inch water main break in Jersey City near the intersection of Jersey Avenue and 18th Street. The results of the tests were analyzed by a certified laboratory and confirmed by NJDEP that the water meets all safe drinking water standards. It is no longer necessary for residents to boil their water."
Residents and businesses are encouraged to follow the below measures:
Veolia will continue to remain fully staffed in the event of future water main breaks due to potential pressure fluctuations. Veolia will continue to flush fire hydrants to stabilize pressure within the water system as an added precaution. If you see water coming out of hydrants, be assured, this is intentional.
See the message on the web here.
Other Information
There was no "boil water" advisory in Jersey City.
Subscribe to Hoboken Patch for breaking news updates here.
Follow Veolia Water here.
7 New + Incoming Businesses in Hoboken and Jersey City
Samantha Impagliahttps://www.hobokengirl.com/new-businesses-hoboken-jersey-city-nj-atelier-sucre-massage-wonder-azal-coffee-crumbl-the-yard-irish-bar/
With the start of a new month also comes a few new businesses to check out in Hoboken and Jersey City. As we welcome March this weekend, we’re rounding up six new spots that will be making their debut (or already have) in our area soon. From a cooking workshop studio in Hoboken’s Monroe Center to several new food and drink locales in downtown Jersey City, Hudson County is welcoming a variety of businesses this spring. ...
With the start of a new month also comes a few new businesses to check out in Hoboken and Jersey City. As we welcome March this weekend, we’re rounding up six new spots that will be making their debut (or already have) in our area soon. From a cooking workshop studio in Hoboken’s Monroe Center to several new food and drink locales in downtown Jersey City, Hudson County is welcoming a variety of businesses this spring. Read on for more about these seven new and incoming spots in Hoboken and Jersey City, New Jersey.
Hoboken
View this post on Instagram
NYC-based Atelier Sucré is the newest business in Hoboken’s Monroe Center. With another location at 104 East 7th Street in the East Village, the cooking workshop studio is the vision of New York-based pastry chef Simon Herfray, per the website. At the new Hoboken studio, locals can partake in a variety of French cooking classes. Some of the items customers can make include croissants, gluten-free macarons, crème brûlée, chocolate mousse, and more. The full schedule of classes can be found here. For more about the other businesses in Hoboken’s Monroe Center, check out our article here.
Read More: Hoboken St. Patrick’s Day 2025: Bar Crawl Schedule
With three locations across Hoboken and Jersey City Casa Italia Gourmet Market is Alessio’s’ newest venture. Run by Luca Infantino, Alessio’s has quickly become a local staple for Italian goodies, coffee, sandwiches (PS: try our Hoboken Girl breakfast sandwich), and much more.
The team behind Moonlight Spa at 722 Washington Street and Alley Spa at 106 5th Street in Hoboken has quietly opened up its third venture. Massage Wonder is the newest spa to make its debut on Washington Street in the former Mimosa Digital space. All three spots provide full body massages, foot reflexology, and more. Moonlight Spa and Alley Spa have become local favorites over the years for affordable massages.
Jersey City
View this post on Instagram
Users in the Jersey City Reddit recently noticed signage for a new java spot in downtown Jersey City. Azal Coffee is a Michigan-based Yemeni coffee shop that will open up its first New Jersey location in Chilltown. On the menu, customers can find organic Yemeni and Arabic coffee drinks including the Azal Signature (roast coffee, coffee husks, cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, sesame, + cream), as well as espresso, mojitos, tea, waffles, pastries, and more. Azal Coffee also has a Wisconsin shop in the works.
View this post on Instagram
Nationally-known cookie brand Crumbl opened its first Hudson County storefront on Friday, February 28th next to Shake Shack in downtown Jersey City. While Crumbl recently introduced new menu items including cookie dough bites and cake cups, it is best known for its freshly-baked gourmet cookies, with flavors rotating weekly.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by The Yard Milkshake Bar ® (@theyardmilkshakebar)
The Yard is a milkshake bar that is set to open next to Azal Coffee on Newark Avenue. Signage was revelaed in the Jersey City Reddit this week. The Yard has 25+ locations around the United States, and serves up ice cream, milkshakes, floats, sundaes, edible cookie dough, and a variety of specialty items like mint brownie mudslide and strawberries + cream cheesecake (specials vary by location.)
See More: Nómada: A New Mexican Restaurant in Verona
A new Irish bar is set to take over the former Cafè Coretto space in downtown Jersey City. Details are slim as of this writing, but The Hoboken Girl has reached out to the owners and this post will be updated with any further details.
Follow @thehobokengirl on Instagram + TikTok to stay in the know with all of the local news, sign up for our weekly newsletter here, and check out our events calendar.
A Guide to Ramadan in Hoboken + Jersey City for 2025
Hoboken Girl Teamhttps://www.hobokengirl.com/ramadan-events-restaurants-hoboken-jersey-city-new-jersey-2025/
The month of Ramadan, which commemorates prophet Muhammad’s first revelation in 610 AD, falls on the ninth month of the Islamic Calendar. For 2025, the holiday starts on February 28th and ends on March 29th. The last day of Ramadan is called Eid al Fitr or “Festival of Breaking the Fast.” In Hoboken and Jersey City, there are all kinds of events to celebrate this holy month. The Hoboken Girl has also compiled a ...
The month of Ramadan, which commemorates prophet Muhammad’s first revelation in 610 AD, falls on the ninth month of the Islamic Calendar. For 2025, the holiday starts on February 28th and ends on March 29th. The last day of Ramadan is called Eid al Fitr or “Festival of Breaking the Fast.” In Hoboken and Jersey City, there are all kinds of events to celebrate this holy month. The Hoboken Girl has also compiled a list of restaurants where locals can order food for Iftar (breaking of the day’s fast). Read on for more about Ramadan and how to celebrate locally in Hoboken and Jersey City, New Jersey.
In addition to fasting and praying, another big part of Ramadan is charity. As one of the five pillars of Islam, giving away is a regular part of the religious practice carried out throughout the year. And during Ramadan, followers usually double down on their charity efforts.
View this post on Instagram
ICNA Relief USA’s New Jersey chapter is located in Somerset and is a Muslim organization that provides “caring and compassionate service to victims of adversities and survivors of disasters,” per the website. Every year, ICNA Relief hosts a Ramadan food distribution event to donate food boxes to those in need. For 2024, the organization distributed 27,000 boxes. This year, individuals are encouraged to carry on this tradition of giving. Those looking to give back can sponsor a food box or donate $75 to support the making of a food box. See more information here.
Read More: 2025 Blood Drive Dates for the Hoboken + Jersey City Area
Breaking Fast
Of course, for many people who observe Ramadan, one important daily ritual is Iftar, or breaking of the day’s fast. It happens at the call to evening prayer at sundown, and people often start it with some dried dates, along with a few bites of other finger food. A full meal follows after the evening prayer. In some countries, Iftar takes the form of elaborate banquets shared with extended family, friends, or even the entire neighborhood, and the preparation may start two to three hours before the meal. Restaurants also prepare Iftar specials for those who prefer to eat out for the big meal. Mosques, where the evening prayers take place, often arrange daily free Iftar for those in need. In some large cities, mosques, cultural institutions, or NGOs also organize iftar parties that allow people of other religions to explore Muslim culture.
Restaurants to Celebrate
View this post on Instagram
Gypsy Grill has an extensive menu and serves traditional Middle Eastern fare with an Egyptian twist. Alongside comfort foods such as hummus, baba ganouj, falafels, and moussakas, there is a wide variety of grilled meat. Gypsy Grill also serves a catering menu, which includes a falafal tray, a dolma tray, a meal platter, and more. See the restaurant’s full menu here and the catering menu here.
Khokha, a new eatery as of December 2024, serves up a completely halal menu of fast-food favorites like burgers, chicken sandwiches, loaded fries, and more. Patrons can find signature items like wagyu beef burgers, topped with chimichurri, jalapeño aioli, and romaine, as well as Pakistani-inspired options like the paratha rolls, which can be made with crispy chicken, pulled beef, or plant-based meat. For those who eat a plant-based diet, this restaurant has plenty of options, such as the Anda Shami, which comes with a chicken + split chickpea patty topped with omelet, cabbage, masala, ketchup, garlic sauce, and tamarind sauce.
Photo Credit: Alisha Rana
This famous Bangladeshi eatery, which received a James Beard Nomination in 2024, has been the go-to spot to celebrate Ramadan in years past. Previously, the restaurant served a “Ramadan Special,” providing some of the most typical fast-breaking seasonal dishes from Bangladesh. Details regarding this special menu have yet to be announced, but as of this writing, the restaurant serves its usual dine-in menu and a customizable catering option, which can serve up to 10 people. To inquire about catering, see here.
Rumi Turkish Grill is known for its authentic Turkish cuisine and halal options. The menu includes traditional dishes like lamb shish kebab, mini dumplings stuffed with beef, and Turkish pide. One of the standout halal dishes is the combo platter, which features a variety of meats, including lamb adana, chicken shish kebab, and kofte.
See More: Organizations + Non-Profits to Give Back to in Montclair
Local Happenings
Meet the Local Resident Behind Hoboken’s Decorative Tree Stump
Danielle Farinahttps://www.hobokengirl.com/hoboken-nj-tree-stump-sue-stephens/
If Hoboken had resident superlatives, the “Best Dressed” award wouldn’t go to any human (though there are many contenders). It’d go to an unassuming, googly-eyed tree stump on the corner of Bloomfield + Second Streets, which for the last few months, has been decked out for various holidays. Named “Stumpy” by locals, the little fellow has a stylist: Hoboken resident Sue Stephens....
If Hoboken had resident superlatives, the “Best Dressed” award wouldn’t go to any human (though there are many contenders). It’d go to an unassuming, googly-eyed tree stump on the corner of Bloomfield + Second Streets, which for the last few months, has been decked out for various holidays. Named “Stumpy” by locals, the little fellow has a stylist: Hoboken resident Sue Stephens.
Photo Credit: Sue Stephens
Back in the fall, Sue noticed that someone had drawn a smiley face on the stump, but the smile had started to fade. A self-proclaimed smiley face obsessive, Sue ventured to glue some googly eyes on the stump and paint the smile brighter. One of the eyes was stolen, but Sue was dedicated to the vision (pun intended), gluing another one on shortly thereafter.
Read More: This Hoboken Resident Hosts ‘Birding Wonder Walks’
Since then, Sue has taken a festive approach to Stumpy’s fashion: she dressed “him” in a pilgrim’s hat for Thanksgiving, a Santa Suit for Christmas, trademark NYE glasses to ring in 2024, and so forth. Sue bundled the stump up for bitter January winter — and dressed him in his Sunday best for Easter.
Some of Stumpy’s items have been stolen (the Santa hat was stolen about four times, Sue says), but Sue maintains positivity. When asked what inspired her to first decorate it, she shared: “Just the fun of doing something silly with a lonely stump.” As it turns out, locals feel the same. One Hoboken resident commented on HG‘s Instagram post, “It brings me joy! Don’t stop!” Another expressed a similar sentiment: “I’ve been tracking this stump for 2 years, maybe more more. I must know the story, I love it.”
See More: Earth Day Inspo: 10 Native Trees To Grow in North Jersey
Sue made it clear that the stump is not “hers.” If other locals want to decorate it, she welcomes them to join in on the fun. That said, she’s currently serving as the stump’s resident stylist, so keep scrolling for an unofficial Hoboken Stump Lookbook.
View this post on Instagram
We can’t wait to see what Sue dreams up next for Stumpy. Follow @thehobokengirl on Instagram + TikTok for more Hoboken fun, and subscribe to our weekly newsletter here.
Disclaimer:
