August 5,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, this Sunday the Renowned band Blue Plate Special will be performing original bluegrass tunes at Graydon Pool , August 6th from 2pm to 5pm. (Rain date is 8/13)
The band consists of five members who are committed to giving their audiences performances to remember and songs that are sure to please!
August 5,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Our free, live online webinar will feature Dr. Robert Melillo, co-founder of Brain Balance Achievement Centers. Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to speak directly with the founder of The Brain Balance Program!
Register to participate in a discussion about:
– How to Identify a Disconnected Kid
– Understanding the Mind of a Disconnected Kid
– Development Milestones
– Q&A for Parents
Register to attend an exclusive live webinar with expert and author Dr. Robert Melillo.
Thursday, August 10th at 8:00pm ET
REGISTER
ABOUT BRAIN BALANCE ACHIEVEMENT CENTERS
We can help. As a parent, it is painful to watch your child struggle socially, behaviorally or academically. Finding the best way to help them is often a confusing and frustrating process. You’ve come to the right place, we have helped thousands of children, and we know how to identify the issues and set a path that addresses your child’s challenges.
More Info
Call 1-800-877-5500
or CONTACT US ONLINE
for more information or to schedule an assessment
for your child.
August 5,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Registration is Open for the Ridgewood YMCA 44th Annual Charity Golf Outing on September 25th
Proceeds to benefit the Ridgewood YMCA’s Social Responsibility Programs
The Ridgewood YMCA will hold its 44th Annual Charity Golf Outing on Monday, September 25, 2017 at the Knickerbocker Country Club in Tenafly, New Jersey. Proceeds from the event will support the Ridgewood YMCA’s Social Responsibility Programs.
As a cause-driven organization with a focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the YMCA offers everyone an opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. The Y’s Social Responsibility Programs address the needs of the community, striving to turn no one away, regardless of their ability to pay. Examples of the Y’s Social Responsibility Programs include Living Strong, Living Well, a strength and conditioning fitness program developed by Stanford University for cancer patients and survivors; Delay The Disease, a program designed to introduce the benefits of exercise to people with Parkinson’s disease; and Rainbows, providing peer support for children who have experienced a painful family transition such as divorce, separation, death of a loved one or abandonment.
The fun-filled day of golf, cocktails, and dinner begins at 9:30 a.m. with registration, brunch, and a shotgun start at 11:00 a.m., followed by the annual Park Avenue BMW Putt-Off Contest. The winner of this contest will get to drive a new BMW convertible for 3 months!
“The Ridgewood Y Annual Charity Golf Outing is a great day for all”, says Ken Levitsky, Committee Chairman. “Participants have the opportunity to play golf, see old friends, make new ones, bid on terrific prizes, and do something good for the community, all at the same time”.
Sponsorship opportunities and online registration for golfers are available at www.ridgewoodymca.org/golf.
For further information, please contact Jen Batelli at 201.444.5600, ext. 320.
photos courtesy of Boyd Loving’s Facebook page
August 5,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Fair Lawn NJ, Fair Lawn Police and EMS personnel rushed to aid an adult male bicyclist who was struck by a motor vehicle at the intersection of Fair Lawn Avenue and Well Drive on Friday afternoon, 08/04. The victim, who did not loose consciousness and sustained non life threatening injuries, was transported by ambulance to The Valley Hospital for treatment. Police on the scene did not indicate whether any summonses were issued in connection with the incident.
“Buy.”
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Yeah, right. It’s that simple. The VOR will just “buy” the Town Garage lot.
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First things first. The town initially needs to lower the price of the property in question, and simultaneously eliminate the Village’s competition for buying it. This is done by declaring that portion of the VOR business district “blighted” which is defined either narrowly, i.e., by the very borders of the property in question, or a little more broadly, i.e., by the square block defined by Franklin Avenue, Walnut Street, Ridgewood Avenue, and Oak Street.
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/s (sarc off). Governments these days, be they federal, state, county, or municipal, don’t just wade into fights anymore. For a modern politician, there is no fight worth having unless it is fixed fight, meaning, safely fixed in advance. This is sadly probably true with respect to our current Village Council.
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How many times does this need to be repeated? Many years ago, Ridgewood borrowed some fifteen million dollars via a formal municipal bond, both to finance the purchase of this same Village Garage site AND to erect a municipal parking garage thereon. This maneuver being undertaken in the immediate aftermath of the US Supreme Court’s notorious “Kelo” decision (the noxious holding of which being that a Constitutionally acceptable public use is any use an elected official can dream up and get approved, however hare-brained the scheme), village residents were actually wise to this trick. They loudly objected to the use of the eminent domain power to deprive a fellow VOR property owner of his/her holdings at an artificially depressed price when the “public use” to which the property was to be put was of dubious future value to the public (in this case, a parking garage boondoggle). In light of this, the spooked Village Council dropped the plan before the parcel was even acquired. The bond money, rather than being used to pay off the bond, was promptly spent on other priorities. What a racket, right? We’re still paying off that debt!
Let us Know when the Class Action gets Started !
By Bill Bartel and Scott Daugherty
The Virginian-Pilot
Aug 4, 2017 Updated 15 min ago
A retired attorney in Virginia Beach is so incensed that Republicans couldn’t repeal the Affordable Care Act he’s suing to get political donations back, accusing the GOP of fraud and racketeering.
Bob Heghmann, 70, filed a lawsuit Thursday in U.S. District Court saying the national and Virginia Republican parties and some GOP leaders raised millions of dollars in campaign funds while knowing they weren’t going to be able to overturn the ACA, also known as Obamacare.
The GOP “has been engaged in a pattern of Racketeering which involves massive fraud perpetrated on Republican voters and contributors as well as some Independents and Democrats,” the suit said. Racketeering, perhaps better known for use in prosecuting organized crime, involves a pattern of illegal behavior by a specific group.
Megan Burrow, Staff Writer, @MegBurrowPublished 8:29 a.m. ET Aug. 2, 2017
TEANECK — A Superior Court judge has ruled that the township must pay legal fees to Elie Jones, a township resident that Teaneck had sued to bar him from filing public records requests after he flooded the clerk’s office with hundreds of requests over the course of two months.
“I feel the township sued a resident improperly,” Jones said. “I’m statutorily allowed to request documents through the Open Public Records Act. They improperly sued me and this is the result.”
TRENTON, NJ. – Assemblyman Kevin J. Rooney (R) has introduced a package of pro-commuter bills protecting New Jersey’s E-ZPass customers who use New York’s bridges and tunnels from being overcharged.
The legislation is in response to a recent AAA study that found drivers who purchased E-ZPass tags from out of state agencies are being charged the cash rate instead of the discount rate at New York bridges and tunnels operated by the Metropolitan Transit Authority. Between 2012 and 2016, of the 92 million out-of-towners who didn’t receive the discount rate, 70 million were New Jersey drivers.
“One of the primary reasons E-ZPass was created was to offer drivers discounted rates,” said Rooney (R-Bergen). “We now find that certain drivers are given preferential treatment – the only reason for which is that their E-ZPass was issued by a New York agency. These bills are an effort to level the playing field for our commuters and ensure the integrity of the E-ZPass system.”
August 4,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Governor Chris Christie is helping transform first responder communications in New Jersey by “opting in” to FirstNet. With his decision, FirstNetand AT&T will deliver a specialized wireless broadband network to New Jersey’s public safety community. This will make New Jersey one of the first states in the country to bring first responders advanced technologies that will help them save lives and protect communities.
“New Jersey is proud to take this important step for first responders in our state. The decision to join this network means FirstNet and AT&T will deliver a highly secure, next-generation solution for our public safety community, building, maintaining and operating it at no cost and no risk to our state,” said Governor Christie.
AT&T, in a public-private partnership with FirstNet, will drive innovation and create an entire system of modernized devices, apps and tools for first responders.
This is one of the most economical and technologically advanced decisions Governor Christie will make for the State’s first responders and the residents they serve. The FirstNet network will transform the way New Jersey’s fire, police, EMS and other public safety personnel communicate and share information. Specifically, FirstNet and AT&T will:
Connect first responder subscribers to the critical information they need in a highly secure manner when handling day-to-day operations, responding to emergencies and supporting large events, such as game day at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.
Create an efficient communications experience for public safety personnel in agencies and jurisdictions across the State during natural disasters. This includes seasonal hurricanes along the New Jersey Shore like Hurricane Sandy.
Enhance network coverage in rural areas. This will benefit first responders and residents throughout New Jersey’s topographically diverse landscape. First responders will also have access to dedicated network deployables for additional coverage and support when needed.
Drive infrastructure investments and create jobs across the State.
Usher in a new wave of innovation that first responders can depend on. This will create an ever-evolving set of life-saving tools for public safety, including public safety apps, specialized devices and Internet of Things technologies. It also carries the potential for future integration with NextGen 9-1-1 networks and Smart Cities’ infrastructure.
“Opting in to FirstNet underscores New Jersey’s commitment to ensuring first responders are capable of meeting constantly evolving challenges,” said Jared Maples, Acting Director of the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness. “As one of the first states to opt-in, New Jersey continues to be a national leader of public safety technology innovation.”
The FirstNet solution that will be built in New Jersey was designed with direct input from the State’s public safety community. As a FirstNet early builder participant, New Jersey shared best practices for the network’s implementation, especially as it relates to deployables. FirstNet has also been meeting with New Jersey’s officials and public safety personnel for several years to address their unique communication needs. This includes:
Giving first responders access to a reliable network connection and extending coverage along the Jersey Shore and in the Pine Barrens as well as other areas throughout the state
Taking extra steps to protect the network in hurricane-prone areas
Improving interoperability for public safety across the state as well as with neighboring states
Providing feature-rich services at highly competitive rates
“New Jersey has been at the forefront of public safety broadband, and with Governor Christie’s decision to join FirstNet, the state is once again leading the nation,” said FirstNet CEO Mike Poth. “FirstNet and AT&T are pleased to offer a plan that surpasses the challenges that New Jersey’s bravest face every day, and we look forward to delivering the network for public safety in the Garden State.”
The decision enables FirstNet and AT&T to begin creating an entirely new wireless ecosystem for public safety communications. New Jersey’s first responder subscribers will have immediate access to quality of service and priority to voice and data across the existing nationwide AT&T LTE network.
Preemption for primary users over the AT&T LTE network is expected by year-end. This means fire, police, EMS and other public safety workers will have dedicated access to the network when and where they need it – 24/7/365, like their mission.
“Governor Christie is making public safety a priority,” said Chris Sambar, senior vice president, AT&T – FirstNet. “His decision will bring an entirely new communications experience to New Jersey’s first responders. And it’s our honor to equip the state’s public safety community with the cutting-edge tools they need to help protect New Jerseyans every day and in every emergency.”
August 4,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood Nj, The Department of Education has just released its annual list of teachers and their salaries for 2017. And the list of educators making $100,000 or more ie the $100,000 club. This list barely had any teachers on it more than a decade ago has grown to more than 5,000.
In 2016-2017, the average salary for teachers, librarians, guidance counselors and other non-administrative staff totaled $70,637, according to an NJ Spotlight analysis of salary data for public school districts and charter schools. The increase is about 1.5 percent higher than the previous year.
315 East Glen Ave photo by Denise Pierce Lima
August 4,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, the request for variances that allow for two homes where only one exists now.
Ridgewood resident Denise Pierce Lima spelled out the problem on Facebook, “We need you to show up to the August 1st Planning Board Meeting and just say “NO”
We bought our home in Ridgewood, in this specific area because of the beauty of the landscape and the history. This home has helped support and make me survivor of cancer and it is our front porch and looking out to the park like setting that got me through it.
What is really happeing at the property at 315 East Glen Ave. AND the variances they are asking for – and what you really need to know is the following:
This is part of a larger project to sub-divide the property and build 2 McMansions 3600 SQ FT.
– According to the Ridgewood Tax map and assessment online files; this will be 150% larger than the 17 homes surrounding this Lot and Block. And -750 homes surrounding, only 2 homes are larger than 2200 square feet and one is the old “Libby” historical home on Glen Ave.
This property and its surroundings are from the 1830, with what we believe are remnants of a blacksmiths house bordering as well as another home from 1800’s. Especially when they plan to cut down 20+ trees and destroy the complete canapoy of the area, essentially clear cutting. The character and history of the area would be LOST
Request to “double” the easement – is purely to fit 6 cars in the new McMansion Emergency vehicles can get down the current driveway, the expansion will not allow them to “turn around”
Not to mention Several months of digging, noise, construction equipment surrounding Glen, Northern Parkway and Sterling will be impacted. And you thought PSE&G was annoying!”
Only the applicant had an attorney, testimony by professional planner on behalf of applicant was clearly orchestrated to convince the Board that Case Law made their approval inevitable.
There seemed to be an implication from testimony that the Planning Board did not have any discretion whatsoever.
Resident Martin Walker pointed out on Facebook,” Hopefully discussed that attorneys are using case law to eviscerate our zoning regulations, and thus the stated intent of our LAST Master Plan.
In other words, State Law is being manipulated to render out village governance meaningless AND the village doesn’t field any legal opinions capable of countering this.
Without legal resources to translate future Master Planning into enforceable law…there IS no possibility of village governance.”
August 4,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, it appears the council has heard the cries about the disrepair of the “Town Garage” property .
Mayor Susan Knudsen announced at the Village Council meeting on Wednesday night that she is in favor of the Village buying the town garage .
photo courtesy of Melanie Whobin
August 4,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, According to Mayor Knudsen , “The first meeting of the Planning Board Master Plan subcommittee was Tuesday Aug 2. The meeting was very efficient and productive. We are looking forward to continuing on such a positive path. Our mission statement is as follows:
“The goal of the Master Plan Subcommittee is to assist the Planning Board, the Ridgewood Village Council and the public with the Master Plan process including, but not limited to: project education, scheduling, milestones, budgeting, public engagement and participation, and to ensure an open and transparent process.”
file photo by Boyd Loving
An open letter to Mr. Richard Joel, the Chairman of the Planning Board re the newly constituted Master Plan Subcommittee:
Dear Mr. Joel:
I listened in to certain parts of the past few Planning Board meetings, and would like to share some thoughts with you.
I agree it is critically important for the Planning Board to set up a Master Plan Subcommittee that can play a critical role in determining the vitality of Ridgewood’s future. I feel strongly, however, that this Subcommittee should be manned with a selection of prominent members of Ridgewood Residents who represent a cross section of the community and disciplines. It is imperative that the Subcommittee has the benefit of a free exchange of creative ideas of smart people who care about our town.
In my opinion, this Subcommittee should be chaired by you or Mr. Joel Torielli and include one or two members of the Planning Board but that it should not include Mayor Knudsen, as I will make clear later.
Listening to the Planning Board meeting one wonders if it is you or the Mayor who is chairing the meeting. The problem of having someone with the Mayor’s domineering personality is that she sucks the air out of the room, discouraging a healthy and honest debate on issues. Most people do not like confrontation, and withdraw into their shell in the presence of someone who dominates a meeting. Hence my recommendation that she stay off the Subcommittee.
Another point is the order in which the Planning Board votes. I see she votes first, then you. I assume you are the senior member of the Planning Board and thus you should vote first. I assume the Mayor and Mr. Voigt are ex-officio members (?) and should vote last. Having said that, you may consider voting as I believe they do in the Supreme Court, with the order being in reverse order of seniority by tenure. Thus, the justice who is the most recent appointee votes first. I understand that the reason for this if for the newer members to feel free to vote as they see fit without feeling pressured by longer serving justices. You are a lawyer and would know more about this than I.
With thanks for your consideration, and more importantly for your service.
Best regards,
Rurik
cc: Members of the Planning Bard and Village Council.
photos courtesy of Boyd Loving’s Facebook page
August 4,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Paramus NJ , Paramus PD, EMS, and FD responded to aid an adult male motorcyclist who was involved in a Thursday afternoon, 08/03, collision on Route 17 southbound near A&S Drive. The victim was transported by ambulance to the Hackensack University Medical Center (HUMC) main campus; he was alert and conscious when the Paramus EMS team arrived at the crash site. A paramedic team from The Valley Hospital accompanied the ambulance to HUMC.
