Dramatic Hillsdale House Fire: 10 Firefighters Rushed to Hospital After Terrifying Flashover
photos courtesy of the Hillsdale Fire Department
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Hillsdale NJ, a routine early morning fire call in Hillsdale, turned into a dramatic rescue operation after a sudden flashover injured ten firefighters inside the burning home.
Continue reading 10 Firefighters Injured in Hillsdale House Fire
COYOTE ATTACK SHOCKER! Dog Walker Bitten in Woodcliff Lake—URGENT Safety Warning for Bergen County Residents
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
WOODCLIFF LAKE, NJ – A disturbing incident in Woodcliff Lake serves as a stark reminder of the escalating risks posed by wildlife in suburban areas. On Monday, October 20, 2025, a dog walker was attacked by a coyote in their own backyard and suffered several bite wounds. This aggressive encounter follows numerous recent sightings of both coyotes and black bears across the region.
Drone Saves the Day! Infrared Technology Locates Missing Person in Westwood Woods, Averting Crisis
photo courtesy of the Westwood Police Department
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
WESTWOOD, NJ – A potential tragedy was averted in Westwood this week, thanks to the swift, coordinated response of the Westwood Police Department and the deployment of cutting-edge 21st-century technology.
On the evening of October 15, 2025, the Westwood Police Department responded to an urgent call regarding a missing and endangered person. What began as a traditional search quickly became a testament to the effectiveness of modern policing tools.
From ‘Fact Check’ to Failure: Why Government Attempts to Control the ‘Truth’ Backfire—Lessons from Ridgewood to 9/11
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
RIDGEWOOD, NJ – The best of intentions can sometimes lead to the most challenging outcomes when it comes to government communication. Ridgewood Village Manager Keith Kazmark’s initiative, “The Manager’s Fact Check Friday,” which launched with the stated goal of providing “good, accurate information—right from the source,” appears to have quietly been discontinued.
The initial rollout was framed as a necessary response to a “world where we question the accuracy and truthfulness of all types of information.” However, the cessation of the program raises a critical question: Does any governmental entity claiming the sole authority to “fact check” or define “truth” inevitably undermine the public trust it aims to build?
See the Masters Teach! Ridgewood Art Institute Instructors’ Show Unveils Classical Realism Treasures—Don’t Miss This!
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
RIDGEWOOD, NJ – Art enthusiasts and aspiring students have a golden opportunity this October to witness masterful technique and enduring beauty at the Ridgewood Art Institute (RAI). The highly anticipated Instructors’ Exhibition is currently on display, showcasing the unparalleled talent and instructional excellence that defines this community landmark.
This exhibition provides a rare glimpse into the talent of the artists who teach at one of the nation’s best community art associations, renowned for its commitment to Classical Realism.
Continue reading The Ridgewood Art Institute Instructors’ Exhibition is Now On View
Boo! The Biggest Halloween Bash is Back! Your Guide to Ridgewood’s Frightfully Fun Haunted Harvest
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
RIDGEWOOD, NJ – Get your costumes ready—for both humans and pets! The Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce is bringing back the highly anticipated Annual Halloween Haunted Harvest to Memorial Park. Mark your calendars for a festive fall celebration packed with music, games, ghoulish sights, and the best costume parade in Bergen County!
Heads Up, Bergen County! Ridgewood Water Announces Late-Night Flushes—Here’s How to Protect Your Appliances
photo courtesy of the Village of Ridgewood
RIDGEWOOD, NJ – Ridgewood Water is launching its annual preventive maintenance program this month, which includes critical hydrant flushing across its service areas. These necessary steps ensure the integrity of the water system, but residents should prepare for temporary changes in water quality and pressure.
The utility is conducting the flushing during overnight hours to minimize disruption to daytime routines and business operations.
Bridging the Gap! Kingsbridge Lane Footbridge Finally Returns to Ridgewood—The Countdown to Reopening Begins
photo courtesy of the Village of Ridgewood
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
RIDGEWOOD, NJ – The long-awaited restoration of a vital Ridgewood walkway has taken a dramatic step forward! The Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge, which has been closed for repairs and replacement, was officially set into place this week, marking a significant milestone in the project’s timeline.
The installation of the new structure means the saga of the Kingsbridge Lane bridge is nearing its conclusion, bringing the community one step closer to safely resuming foot traffic across the span.
Clean Water Breakthrough! Giant Filters Land in Wyckoff and Ridgewood to Erase Toxic ‘Forever Chemicals’
photos courtesy of the Village of Ridgewood
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
RIDGEWOOD, NJ – Ridgewood Water has reached a critical milestone in its mission to deliver the cleanest possible water, announcing the delivery of advanced filtration vessels to two key treatment facilities in Bergen County. These massive installations mark the final major construction step before the new systems become operational next year, ensuring the removal of harmful PFAS “forever chemicals” from the local water supply.
This multi-million dollar investment underscores Ridgewood Water’s commitment to not just meeting, but surpassing the strictest federal guidelines for water purity.
50 Years Later: The Bergen County Murder That SHATTERED a Town’s Innocence—Remembering Susan Reeve
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
DEMAREST, NJ | October 16, 2025 – Fifty years ago this week, the abduction and murder of 22-year-old Susan Reeve shattered the peace of the quiet suburban town of Demarest, Bergen County. On October 14, longtime residents gathered solemnly at the Demarest Gazebo to mark the anniversary of the tragedy and remember the young woman whose death forever changed the community.
The emotional memorial service, organized by former Demarest Ambulance Squad Captain Owen T. Clarke, served as a powerful reminder of a crime that rocked not only Demarest but all of North Jersey.
photos courtesy of Ridgewood Village Manager Keith Kazmark
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood, NJ | October [Relevant Year] – Last week, the annual Ridgewood League of Women Voters (LWV) luncheon hosted a powerful conversation with one of New Jersey’s leading voices, Senator Holly Schepisi (R-District 39). The event, described by attendees as “very informative,” provided a deep dive into the most pressing issues facing New Jersey residents today.
photos courtesy of the Village of Ridgewood
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
RIDGEWOOD, NJ – Commuters and residents need to prepare for significant travel changes in the heart of Ridgewood this week. Major road work for essential storm drain improvements will cause closures on North Maple Avenue starting on Wednesday, October 15th, affecting access to key municipal buildings.
This important infrastructure project will ensure better drainage and protect the Village’s road network, but temporary patience is required!
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood, NJ, is at a major crossroads with its parking system. Village officials recently greenlit a hefty bond ordinance—reportedly over $1 million—to finance the purchase of replacement parking payment kiosks. However, a growing trend in neighboring New Jersey towns is raising a critical question: Should Ridgewood follow suit and pivot to a more modern, cost-effective, smartphone-app-only payment model?
photos courtesy of the Hasbrouck Heights Fire Department
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
HASBROUCK HEIGHTS, NJ – An intense extrication operation unfolded late Friday night, October 10th, on Route 17 North at the intersection of Franklin Avenue following a serious multi-vehicle accident. The incident required the immediate deployment of specialized rescue equipment and a critical mutual aid response, underscoring the vital teamwork among Bergen County first responders.
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, The Ridgewood, community woke up to disappointing news today: the Ridgewood Oktoberfest has been officially canceled due to the ongoing state of emergency. The severe weather conditions and focus on public safety have regrettably made it impossible to host the popular fall festival.
While the cancellation is a letdown for attendees, the organizers wanted to share a massive thank you to the heart of the event: the local small businesses and devoted residents.
