Dear Editor:

Many of us who call Hoboken home never imagined living in this town long-term. We moved here soon after college for the easy commute to NYC, more affordable housing and the various social outlets. But something happened. We fell in love with this town, and its rich culture and the energy of this urban community. So, as we think about the upcoming City Council elections, I’d like to speak directly to those young professionals who remind me of myself over 15 years ago. I see you riding the 126 bus and the Path, frequenting Hoboken’s bars and restaurants and jogging along Sinatra Drive. Hoboken has evolved, rather dramatically, over the past 15 years. And, this transformation has been multi-faceted: our historic places and brownstones are complemented by new construction, our sidewalks are bustling with single and double-strollers, our primary schools are pulsing with young children in record-numbers, our administration has a comprehensive offering of recreational and social programs. I call this progress, and our progress is impressive. But, our representative government has not evolved at the same pace. Few of our City Council members share this same narrative. Few of them share the same forward-thinking. Few of them share the same hope that Hoboken will continue to reinvent itself. Jen Giattino is running to represent all the citizens of Hoboken’s 6th Ward. Twelve years ago, beginning her career as a trader on Wall Street, she resembled many of Hoboken’s current young professionals riding the 126 bus. Twelve years in Hoboken have brought many positive developments to Jen’s life including marriage, home ownership, motherhood, entrepreneurship and a sense of belonging in a community she loves. Jen has a proven passion for service, talent for creating community programs, and dedication to bringing positive change to the city she proudly calls home. Today, Jen Giattino is running to represent you, and the 6th Ward, on the City Council and to ensure that your future in Hoboken is as bright and promising as hers. With your support, Jen Giattino will continue her track-record as a tireless community leader by serving Hoboken as a dedicated city councilmember. Maybe you can’t imagine living in Hoboken long-term; or, maybe you can. But, you need to exercise your right – and fulfill your responsibility – to vote for that future. Jen Giattino represents the best hope for all residents of the 6th Ward to continue enjoying forward progress. Please come out to vote, and to support Jen Giattino on May 10,

Lauren Calmas