Ridgewood Talks: Recent Episodes
Ridgewood Talks
In this episode of Ridgewood Talks, we sit down with Mary Lou Handy, candidate for the Ridgewood Public Schools Board of Education. With a background in education and a strong passion for community involvement, Mary Lou shares her vision for Ridgewood schools, her stance on key issues affecting our students, and her commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all. Join us as we explore her plans to bring positive change to our district and hear firsthand what drives her dedication to our schools. If you’re a parent, educator, or community member interested in the future of Ridgewood’s schools, this episode is a must-listen!
In this episode of Ridgewood Talks, we sit down with Sheila Brogan, a candidate for the Ridgewood Public Schools Board of Education. Sheila shares her vision for Ridgewood schools, focusing on key issues facing the district, her experiences, and her commitment to fostering a supportive educational environment for all students. Tune in to hear Sheila’s insights on educational priorities, fiscal responsibility, student well-being, and how she plans to bridge communication between parents, teachers, and the broader community.
Ridgewood Talks sits down with Muhammed Mahmoud, a candidate for Ridgewood Public Schools Board of Education, to discuss his vision for education, student well-being, and community engagement in Ridgewood. Muhammed shares insights into his background, his priorities as a board member, and the changes he hopes to implement to enhance the learning experience for students and teachers alike. Tune in to hear about Muhammed’s goals for academic excellence, student support services, and building a more inclusive school environment.
MEET THE CANDIDATESFour candidates are competing for three seats on the Village of Ridgewood Council.Tune in to our podcast episodes and learn more about them.You can also view the League of Women Voters Candidate Forum and explore Vote411.org for additional information.In this episode, we chat with Paul Vagianos.Visit paulvagianos.com for more information.
MEET THE CANDIDATESFour candidates are competing for three seats on the Village of Ridgewood Council.Tune in to our podcast episodes and learn more about them.You can also view the League of Women Voters Candidate Forum and explore Vote411.org for additional information.In this episode, we chat with Pamela Perron.Visit perronforcouncil.com for more information.
MEET THE CANDIDATESFour candidates are competing for three seats on the Village of Ridgewood Council. Tune in to our podcast episodes and learn more about them.You can also view the League of Women Voters Candidate Forum and explore Vote411.org for additional information. In this episode, we chat with Frank Mortimer. Visit MortimerforCouncil.com for more information.
In this episode, we sit with the inspiration and powerhouse behind Ridgewood's League of Women Voters. Co-presidents Anne Burton Walsh and Ann Melone are two of the driving forces behind this nonpartisan organization. The LWV empowers local voters, promotes civic engagement, and advocates for fair policies. Learn about the League’s voter education efforts, including the upcoming Ridgewood Village Council Candidate Forum on 10/16 at 7:30 p.m., broadcast on the Village of Ridgewood YouTube channel. Visit Vote411.org for personalized voting information and learn how to get involved with the League by attending their monthly meetings at Village Hall on the 3rd Thursday of the month. To learn more about the League, visit LWVRidgewoodNJ.org and the Facebook page League of Women Voters of Ridgewood, NJ.
Meet Our Leaders - Village Manager Keith Kazmark, Police Chief Forest Lyons, and Superintendent Mark Schwartz share their thoughts about their first year on the job. Learn about their efforts to strengthen community relationships through increased communication. Find out how Ridgewood Public Schools are helping students thrive and flourish, the Police Department’s compassionate approach to patrolling, and the Village’s initiatives to address flooding and improve the water supply. Tune in for a comprehensive look at the steps being taken to build a safer, more supportive, and connected community in Ridgewood.Contact Superintendent Schwarts and learn more about RPS by reading the State of the Schools Address here: https://www.ridgewood.k12.nj.us/our_district/about_us/state_of_the_schools_addressesContact Manager Kazmark and Chief Lyons here: https://www.ridgewoodnj.net/
Tracy Zur, Bergen County Commissioner, discusses the growing issue of food insecurity in Ridgewood and sheds light on how it has escalated in recent years. She shares her ideas for tackling the county's broader challenges, such as affordable housing and mental health services, and highlights the actions she’s taking related to energy and infrastructure improvements. Tune in to this informative interview, and remember to cast your vote on Nov. 5.
Are you hoping to find a stimulating summer program for your child? Look no further than Be Brain Bright! It offers fun, hands-on workshops in engineering, entrepreneurship, neuroscience, teen empowerment, and leadership that stretch kids' thinking. Be Brain Bright has programs for children of all ages, so sign up today and help position your kids for the future. Listen to founder Alina Swanson and log on to BeBrainBirght.com to learn more.
The 13th Annual Ridgewood Guild Film Festival is in full swing! Listen in and learn about the exciting upcoming events! Get ready to dress up for a Zombie Wedding – a film written and produced by local resident Greg Del Alessandro. Find out more about Harlan Coben, the New York Times best-selling author of thirty-five novels and the creator and executive producer of several Netflix television dramas.Hear about Lynn Clements's legacy as a long-time Ridgewood Guild board member, prolific volunteer, and mother of carpool karaoke producer Glenn F. Clements. Learn where to donate to the student filmmaker scholarship in her honor.Contact RidgewoodGuild.com or 201-493-9911 for more information.
Let yourself be entertained by the dynamic duo Rory Kelsch and Kathleen McKitty Harris. They've created something we all crave – entertaining and enlightening evenings focused on fun, community, and connection. Their What's Your Story? events are intimate, casual, moving, and absurdly funny, with a curated lineup of readers sharing stories based on the evening's theme. The next SOLD-OUT event will be on Saturday, April 13, at the Schoolhouse Museum – where all proceeds will be donated to the Ridgewood Historical Society. Listen in, have a laugh, and learn how you can get involved and tell your story at their next event.
Dr. Karen Latimer is a wellness and parenting coach, family physician, writer, wife, and mother of five.Listen in to learn how this busy entrepreneur stays organized. Here’s a hint: She uses her list’m app, and you can too! Karen is a health & parenting advocate who helps people reach their goals of finding peace and fulfillment.She reminds us that “little hinges swing big doors” and helps us stay on track with her podcast, Save the Change, Audible books, and websites, Dr.KarenLatimer.com and Helium-Project.com. Karen is also on the Ridgewood YMCA board and spearheads worthwhile initiatives that help the autism and mental wellness communities.
The Ridgewood Arts Foundation is a marvelous organization that celebrates the arts in and around Ridgewood.They host a variety of events to help fund grants and scholarships to benefit deserving artists and organizations. Their signature event and most significant fundraiser of the year is the Honors Showcase. It will be held on Friday, April 5, at 7:30 PM at the Unitarian Society on Cottage Place. The evening will include live musical performances by honored musicians, an art gallery featuring their celebrated grantees, and cocktails and tasty bites will also be served.To learn more, tune in and hear from three board members: Lorraine Haskins, Chris Sargente, and Kristen Plumley. Visit their website RidgewoodArtsFoundation.org – and follow them on Instagram and Facebook
College Club of Northern NJ is hosting famed New Jersey author Joyce Carol Oats on Monday, March 11, 2024. Tune in to find out more about this incredible event and learn more about College Club from their marketing manager, Martha Fickenger.
The Ridgewood YMCA is under new leadership, and lots of exciting initiatives are underway.Executive Director Ramon Hache talked to us about what’s happening and shared information about the terrific programming available for all ages. Pickleball, Men’s Basketball, Women’s Wellness, Parent’s Night Out, Bee Keeping and MORE! Log on to ridgewoodymca.org to learn more, and follow them on Facebook to stay updated.
What’s new at the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce? We chatted with their newly elected president, Glenn Carlough – proprietor of Steel Wheel Tavern and proud Ridgewood High School soccer coach. Tune in to find out what the Chamber has in store for our downtown and learn more about the spectacular events the Chamber hosts.
Mayor Paul Vagianos and Deputy Mayor Pamela Perron share information about the closing of our beloved movie theater. What’s next, and who is in charge?
The greatest show in the village is happening on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, February 8, 9, 10. We spoke with producers Andrea Leonarz and Karen Fritz, and cast member David Langan. They helped us understand what all the fuss and fun is about and why everyone in town should support this worthwhile and longstanding Ridgewood tradition. Get your tickets today at rhsjamboree.org
Experience the brilliance of Kristen Plumley, Ridgewood's radiant soprano, a revered figure and trailblazer in our community! Tune in to discover details about Kristen's upcoming holiday performances on December 7 at the Woman's Club of Ridgewood and December 8 at West Side Presbyterian Church. Learn more about her involvement with the Ridgewood Arts Foundation, Ridgewood Friends of Music, and other organizations. Let her infectious charm and leadership inspire you.
Holiday Happenings in the Village of RidgewoodJoin Joan Groome, Executive Director of the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce, and Tony Damiano, Executive Director of the Ridgewood Guild, as they share details about the many exciting events their organizations are sponsoring this holiday season.Find out more about the following:Winterfest- November 25CASH MOBS! – December 7Free Parking – Thursday eveningsDowntown for the Holidays Holiday Market Place on Chestnut2024 Events and more!Learn more here:ridgewoodchamber.comridgewoodguild.com
Board of Education Candidates Julie Mchedlishvili and Laura McKennaSeven candidates are competing for two spots on the Ridgewood Board of Education. Each took time to chat with us. Please tune in to each episode to gain insights into the contenders and their objectives for the Ridgewood Public School District.Learn more here: vote4jm.org – facebook/Julie Mchedlishvili for Ridgewood Board of Educationelectmckenna.com – facebook.com/Laura McKenna for Ridgewood Board of Education
Board of Education Candidates Claude Guinchard and Malcolm JenningsSeven candidates are competing for two spots on the Ridgewood Board of Education. Each took time to chat with us. Please tune in to each episode to gain insights into the contenders and their objectives for the Ridgewood Public School District.Learn more here: jenningsandguinchardforridgewoodboe.com
Board of Education Candidate Saurabh DaniSeven candidates are competing for two spots on the Ridgewood Board of Education. Each took time to chat with us. Please tune in to each episode to gain insights into the contenders and their objectives for the Ridgewood Public School District.Learn more here: voteboe.com - facebook.com/TogetherForRidgewood
Board of Education Candidate Mike LemboSeven candidates are competing for two spots on the Ridgewood Board of Education. Each took time to chat with us. Please tune in to each episode to gain insights into the contenders and their objectives for the Ridgewood Public School District.Learn more here: facebook.com/voteforlembo
Board of Education Candidate Mary MicaleSeven candidates are competing for two spots on the Ridgewood Board of Education. Each took time to chat with us. Please tune in to each episode to gain insights into the contenders and their objectives for the Ridgewood Public School District.Learn more here: micaleforboe23.org - facebook.com/Mary Micale for BoE
Ridgewood’s new Village Manager, Keith Kazmark, discusses his role as the municipality’s chief executive and his responsibility to residents. As supervisor of all the Village’s day-to-day operations, Mr. Kazmark gives us his professional insights and explains how he assists our leaders in making informed, equitable decisions. Listen in, learn about some exciting initiatives underway in the Village, and hear about Mr. Kazmark's new methods to communicate with the public. He recognizes that the Village Manager serves as the point of contact between residents and Village government and encourages the public to join him at "Meet the Manager Night" on Monday, September 18, at 7 p.m. in the 4th Floor Courtroom at Village Hall. For the latest Village updates, follow the Village Manager's social media platforms. Facebook – RidgewoodVillageManager; Instagram – Ridgewood_Manager_07450; Twitter (X) - Ridgewood_Manager_07450Facebook – RidgewoodVillageManagerInstagram – Ridgewood_Manager_07450Twitter (x) - Ridgewood_Manager_07450
2023 4th of July celebration! The theme is “MADE IN AMERICA” - Celebrating the history of our great nation and highlighting the many creations made right here in the United States of America. From inventions, people, products, sports, music, entertainment, technology, and more- we are a country of innovators, creators, and visionaries. Schedule of Events:Tuesday, July 4, 2023Flag Raising: 9:00 am – Wilsey SquareParade: Begins 10:00 am – Corner of Monroe and GodwinEvening Entertainment & Fireworks, gates open 6:00 pm: Veteran’s FieldAll plans are subject to change/cancellation. Check ridgewoodjuly4.net for more updates.
Destination Ridgewood! The Ridgewood Pedestrian Plaza is THE place to be this summer. Opening day is Saturday, June 3 - a slate of activities starts at 8 AM in Van Neste Park. Find out what great things are planned for that day and the weekends throughout the summer. Deputy Mayor Pam Perron and Jeanette Donnarumma share details about the activities, and Johanna & Linda from Rey Sol Coffee chime in to tell us about opening weekend. To learn more about the Pedestrian Plaza, go to “Destination Ridgewood” on Instagram and Facebook.#DestinationRidgewood #welcometoridgewood #07450together #RidgewoodNJ #Ridgewood #PedestrianPlaza
Who makes Ridgewood great? People like Megan Murphy. Megan has been contributing to the fabric of our community for over 20 years. She founded Baubles & Bags, an initiative to help the Center for Hope and Safety. The event will be held on Thursday, May 11, from 10 am to 2 pm at 74 Godwin Avenue. Head over and purchase beautiful, gently used costume jewelry and handbags. Tune in to learn more about it and all the wonderful things Megan has contributed to benefit our village. Her story will inspire you!Sign up to participate in West Bergen’s Wellness Walk on Sat. May 13. WestBergen.org
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Ridgewood resident Jan Bottcher, a member of Ridgewood STIGMA-FREE, shares information from the National Alliance on Mental Illness about this year’s “theme, “More than Enough.” It affirms that people are inherently worthy of life, love, and healing — no matter what they look like, where they are in their journeys, or what they can or can’t do.The STIGMA-FREE initiative is dedicated to raising awareness about mental illness and creating a culture where individuals experiencing symptoms feel supported by their community and free to seek treatment without fear of stigma.*1 in 5 adults and 1 in 6 children have a mental health condition—and half go untreated.Questions to ask someone in distress:Do you need help?Do you need a hug?Do you need to be heard?Do you need a hiatus?Please help us reduce Stigma in Ridgewood. Call the Village Health Department at 201-670-5500, visit ridgewoodnj.net, or attend a meeting.
🌼NO MOW MAY! What is it, and how can you get involved? Michael Faherty, a Ridgewood volunteer and author, talks about No Mow May and Project 1000 Acres, Green Ridgewood, The Green Team, and other terrific organizations such as the Conservancy for Ridgewood Public Lands, The Women Gardeners of Ridgewood, and more. He also gave us a peek into the book he's written titled "A Step Outside-Understanding the Nature and History of the Lands Around Us." It's a delightful read with plenty of references to Ridgewood. Enjoy!For more information about NMM & 1000Acres go to greenridgewoodnj.org
The Ridgewood Historical Society and School House Museum will celebrate the 150th anniversary of Ridgewood’s first schoolhouse and honor the invaluable contributions of three well-respected Trustees, Dacey Latham, Joy Hamburger, and Vicky Herbert, at a gala on Thursday, May 18. It will be a festive Roaring 20’s themed evening with dinner and dancing. Music will be provided by the local band, “Soul’ed Out.” The event will be held at Felina in Ridgewood’s Historic Business District. Everyone is invited. You can purchase tickets ridgewoodhistoricalsociety.orgTune in and learn more about the Historical Society and School House Museum from Vicky Herbert and find out more about the gala from Sarah Faranda.
Do you own a small business? Are you lacking the tools and resources you need to succeed? FREE help is available. Linda Caruso, Director of Bergen for Business, a program at Bergen Community College funded by the Bergen County Executive’s office, shares details about a terrific program for small business owners.High-performing BCC students received extensive training to assist small business owners in Bergen County. If you need help getting attention on social media platforms, a new website, a business or marketing plan, or other support, this episode can steer you in the right direction. Listen in and go to BergenforBusiness.com for more information.
Michael Lembo – Ridgewood Public Schools Board of Education president, shares information about the Superintendent search, alternate start times, and community engagement at board meetings. Mike says, “…an educated community is a better community…” This interview will help you learn more about Mike and why everyone should engage in local politics.
Ridgewood Newcomers representative Kerry White shares the mission behind the non-profit and their commitment to helping new residents build community through exciting and entertaining events. Ridgewood Newcomers also collaborates with Ridgewood businesses and other local non-profit organizations to help build a more connected and vibrant community. Whether you’re new to town or have lived here for years, this is a must-listen-to episode
Chief Jacqueline Luthcke shares some highlights and memories of her time in the Ridgewood Police Department. She also gives us insight into the range of emotions police officers experience daily and the stress it can cause. We are fortunate that Chief Luthcke’s philosophy has been to teach, not punish. Her parting words before she retires from the Ridgewood Police Department are to practice good safety and be a kind neighbor.
Alina Swanson – Ridgewood resident, volunteer extraordinaire, and curator of the Art Fusion Exhibit at The Stable Gallery (259 N Maple Ave). Alina shares her passion for public art and why she worked hard to make this show a reality. It is a do not miss display that features segments titled “Reclaiming Peace Within” and “Inside A Teen Brain.” Local artists and Ridgewood High School students designed the pieces. The sponsors are the Ridgewood Arts Foundation, Be Brain Bright, CharliFi Bakery, and Village Tea Shop. The show will run through February 25.
To know someone well is to know their story—the experiences, trials, and turning points that have tested and shaped them. When we want someone to know us, we share stories of our childhood, family, school years, spiritual development, and so on.Seldom is a good story so needed, though, as when a significant change is underway. The world experienced a major upheaval, and we are all on the road to recovery. We need one another more than ever now.Join “What’s Your Story?” producers Kathleen McKitty Harris and Rory Kelsch as they explain more about the meaningful events they create and find out how you can attend their next fundraising event at Ridgewood’s Schoolhouse Museum.
What’s in store for our Village in the next five, ten, or twenty years? Listen to Dianne O’Brien, a Ridgewood High School graduate, certified Urban Planner/Historian, and Village of Ridgewood Planning Board member, as she walks us through some of the more critical elements of Ridgewood’s Master Plan. Learn why mitigating flooding issues now, before it happens, is a well-spent investment. Find out what pedestrian safety measures are in store for our central business district and how homeowners can streamline the building permit process.
Who’s living in the new multi-family housing units, and how have they impacted Ridgewood Public Schools? Has our Central Business District benefitted from these apartment dwellers? We talked to Carley Ciocci – the property management professional who oversees rentals at The Benjamin and NoMa Ridgewood, to get the answers. Enjoy!
What can the Pedestrian Plaza do for resident taxes? How can Ridgewood help combat global climate change? Where can you get information about Village Committees, Boards, and Commissions? Who can make the biggest positive impact on our community? Tune in to this episode and hear from our newly elected Mayor, Paul Vagianos, and Deputy Mayor, Pamela Perron.
Dillon Carroll – Ridgewood Public School and Cornell University alumnus, speaks to us from his office in Ukraine. Dillon and his friend Mark Kreynovich spearheaded a remarkable humanitarian effort that helps Ukrainians navigate challenges as a result of the war. Dillon and Mark want to remain there for as long as possible and continue their efforts of buying medical supplies and providing temporary housing for refugees and civilians still trapped in Ukraine. They also want to continue offering translation services that give Ukrainians a voice and a platform to express their feelings.This extraordinary work is accomplished through donations from people like you. Please listen to their story and donate what you can to help them continue solving the daily challenges of Ukrainians.missionto.org
Michael Tozzoli, MSW, LCSW - West Bergen Mental Healthcare CEO, shares meaningful approaches to handling holiday stress and offers tips on comforting loved ones experiencing mental health issues. Mr. Tozzoli is a licensed clinician and non-profit leader who oversees the clinical and strategic direction of WBMH, including 250+ employees and 20+ programs. He completed his graduate work at Columbia University and regularly speaks to communities about various mental health topics, including the rise of mental health issues in school-aged children. Trigger Warning: We address how to cope with and understand suicide and suicidal ideation. For more information, visit westbergen.org or call 201-444-3550If you are in emotional distress or have a suicidal crisis, dial 988. The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Ridgewood Living Magazine content creator and Ridgewood volunteer extraordinaire Kathryn Schmidt shares information about the new and fabulous hyper-local magazine that features the very best of our hometown. The December issue can be found here: 12 DEC 2022 RWL FINAL.pdfIf you’d like to suggest events or other content, contact kathrynschmidt@bestversionmedia.comFor sponsorship opportunities, contact MFickinger@bestversionmedia.com
Deputy Mayor Pamela Perron does a deep dive into Ridgewood Water issues. If your concerns aren't addressed in this episode contact Ridgewood Water Utility - https://water.ridgewoodnj.net/ 201-670-5520 - 111 North Maple Avenue, Ridgewood.
2022 Holiday Happenings in Downtown Ridgewood!Joan Groome and Tony Damiano - Executive Directors of the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce, and the Ridgewood Guild, respectively share information about upcoming events in the Central Business District.
Ridgewood Talks 2022 - Episode 04Mary Micale, Ridgewood Federated Home and School Association President, explains the role of the HSA and talks to us about how and why to become involved at your local school campus.
Ridgewood Talks 2022 Episode 03 Ramon Hache - Former Village of Ridgewood Mayor Ridgewood High School graduate and current Bergen County Commissioner
A candid and personal Facebook Live/Zoom session about Race with Pastor/Professor Mack Brandon of Metropolitan A.M.E. Zion Church and Pastor/Professor Arturo Lewis of Emmanual Church Ridgewood, NJ Taped on Monday, June 22, 2020
A candid and personal Facebook Live/Zoom session about Race with Pastor Mack Brandon of Metropolitan A.M.E. Zion Church and Pastor Marc Oehler of West Side Presbyterian Church in Ridgewood, NJ Taped on Monday, June 15, 2020
Historic Brookside Avenue Start and End points: Ridgewood Avenue and Brookside Avenue Walking time: approx. 40 mins Your Guide: Rosie McCooe – longtime Ridgewood resident and Real Estate Agent with Gilsenan & Co Tour Designed by: longtime Audrey Darby, Ridgewood native and Founder/CEO of Match Me Partners – A Nationwide Real Estate Agent Referral Firm Building Charitable Partnerships.
Learn about one of Ridgewood's oldest and most beautiful neighborhoods. Begin at Ridgewood Avenue and Brookside Avenue. The tour includes information about Ridgewood High School, The Little Theatre, the Hank-Boyd-Mastin House, and more.
A candid and personal Facebook Live/Zoom session about being a Black American -with Pastor Mack Brandon of Metropolitan A.M.E. Zion Church in Ridgewood, NJ Taped on Monday, June 6, 2020
This part of Ridgewood lies east of Route 17 and exists somewhat apart from the rest of the village. At the same time, it is located near what was originally Ridgewood's center, and reflects its colonial past. The tour includes several historic houses, including the Zabriskie-Schedler house, along with a footbridge over the Saddle River. A subset of this area, known as Salem Ridge, was developed in the 1950’s. Start and End points: The Glen School, 865 E Glen Ave.
Walking time: approx. 1 hour
Your Guide: Ben Greenman, author and Ridgewood dad
Learn about the rich history of some of Ridgewood's most beautiful structures. Begin at the Ridgewood Railroad Station built in 1915-1916 and continue on to Garber Square and Wilsey Square. The tour features the Pease Library and the Play House Theatre, which originally opened its doors in 1913.
Starting point: The Ridgewood Train Station at Garber Sq. End point: The Playhouse, 14 Wilsey Sq.
Walking time: approx. 40 mins
Your Guide: Jeanne Johnson, founder of Ridgewood Walks/Talks
Ridgewood Walks & Ridgewood Talks founders, Jeanne Johnson and Gail Ghezzi, speak to Jeanette Donnarumma, the Emmy-winning producer of the Rachael Ray Show, about the origins of the Ridgewood walking initiative and the way that it helps to keep the town focused on everything from personal well-being to business growth.
Ridgewood Walks founder (and Ridgewood Talks host) Jeanne Johnson talks to leaders and legends in the Village of Ridgewood. This week: Jane Clementi, Co-founder of the Tyler Clementi Foundation