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Bird Feeders vs. Black Bears: Is New Jersey About to Outlaw Backyard Birdwatching?

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, welcome to New Jersey, where you can still pump your own gas (sort of), dodge potholes like a pro, and maybe—just maybe—face a hefty fine for daring to feed the birds. Yes, you read that right. A new bill currently fluttering through the state legislature would restrict how, when, and even if you can hang that innocent little bird feeder in your yard. Why? Because… bears.

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What Lies Beneath: Aging Sewer Lines Threaten Hamburg, NJ’s Historic Homes

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Hamburg, New Jersey, is a town steeped in charm. Nestled in Sussex County, its picturesque streets, colonial architecture, and rich history make it a gem for homeowners and history lovers alike. But beneath the surface of these timeless homes lies a growing concern—aging sewer infrastructure. Many of Hamburg’s historic homes are built atop sewer lines dating back decades, and with each passing year, the risks multiply.

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Rollover Crash in Ridgewood: White Audi SUV Overturns at Glen and Fairfield Intersection

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photos courtesy of Boyd Loving’s Facebook Page

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, a white Audi SUV overturned in a rollover crash on Saturday afternoon at the intersection of East Glen Avenue and Fairfield Avenue in Ridgewood. Emergency crews from the Ridgewood Police Department and Ridgewood Fire Department/EMS quickly responded to the scene to provide assistance, control traffic, and address any potential hazards.

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President Trump Moves to End DEI Nationwide: A New Era of Merit Over Mandates

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ,  in one of his first acts upon returning to office, President Donald Trump signed a series of executive orders aimed squarely at dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at both the federal and private sector levels.

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Ridgewood Gets DOGED: Federal Health Grant Cuts Threaten 34 Community Programs Amid Skeptical Justifications

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, the Village of Ridgewood may soon lose more than $169,000 in federal health care grants, potentially derailing 34 public health and wellness programs that earned the community top honors just months ago. The funding cuts come amid a nationwide rollback of post-pandemic federal health spending, sparking frustration from local leaders and raising skepticism over Washington’s rationale.

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“Rat Lady” Returns: Dumpster Disturbance Resurfaces in Ridgewood’s Central Business District

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, we first reported her in 2019, the infamous “Rat Lady” is back — and according to local sources, her behavior is escalating. Reports from Ridgewood’s Central Business District indicate the same individual has resumed raiding dumpsters, scattering garbage, and allegedly feeding rats, sparking public health concerns and renewed frustration from area business owners.

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Major USPS Changes Coming in 2025: Job Cuts, Slower Mail, and Possible Government Takeover

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the staff of the Ridgewood Blog

Ridgewood NJ,  major changes are set to reshape the future of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) as the agency launches a sweeping cost-cutting initiative this month. The overhaul could mean slower mail delivery, thousands of job cuts, and even a potential merger with a federal department — a move that could end the Postal Service’s long-standing independence.

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Ridgewood Guild International Film Festival Returns for Its 14th Anniversary on April 24, 2025

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, the Ridgewood Guild International Film Festival (RIFF) is back for its 14th annual celebration of independent cinema on April 24, 2025. Over the years, RIFF has evolved into a respected platform for independent filmmakers, showcasing creative and inspiring films from around the globe.

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Ridgewood Considers Expanding Wildlife Feeding Ban to Private Property

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood Nj, Village of Ridgewood officials are set to vote on Wednesday on a proposed ordinance that would expand the village’s ban on wildlife feeding to include private property.

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Ridgewood Officials Push for Urgent Repairs to Train Station Underpass

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photos courtesy of Village Manager Keith Kazmark

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, Ridgewood Village Manager Keith Kazmark recently joined Mayor Paul Vagianos and other Ridgewood representatives in a tour of the Franklin Avenue train station underpass alongside officials from NJ Transit. Kazmark emphasized that for over a year, the Village has been advocating for necessary repairs and maintenance to address the efflorescence and rust accumulating on the ceiling surfaces of the underpass—yet no action has been taken.

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Victim Rescued from House Fire on Norgate Drive in Ridgewood

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photos courtesy of Boyd Loving’s Facebook page

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, a devastating house fire on Norgate Drive left one victim hospitalized after emergency crews pulled them from the burning home on Tuesday afternoon, April 1.

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Town Garage Property was Seized by Eminent Domain for Public Use – “Just Compensation?”

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the staff of The Ridgewood Blog

Ridgewood NJ, several residents recently wrote to us expressing concern about comments from Village Council members of late hinting that the former Town Garage property may not become a pocket park (open space) as was promised. Mayor Paul Vagianos himself previously indicated he would rather the property be used for public parking.

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APRIL FOOLS UPDATE: Meet Glen: Ridgewood Fire Department’s New Firehouse Dog!

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photo courtesy of Ridgewood Professional Firefighters FMBA Local 47

UPDATE: Yes, unfortunately Glen was just an April Fools joke that our social media manager didn’t expect to gain so much popularity so quickly! Wow! Now I’ve got some people to answer to! Apologies to anyone who had to field phone calls this morning about this one! We will miss you, Glen!  

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, after years of requests, the Ridgewood Fire Department is thrilled to announce the adoption of a firehouse dog! Say hello to Glen, named after the street where fire headquarters has stood for over 30 years.

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Registration Now Open for the the Chief Michael Feeney Junior Police Academy!

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

 

Ridgewood NJ, the Chief Michael Feeney Junior Police Academy is gearing up for it’s 12th year! Registration will be through community pass starting today April 1st.

This year’s academy will run June 23-27th at BF Middle School. The academy is open to Ridgewood residents that will be going into 5th, 6th, and 7th grades next fall.

Any questions, please contact Sgt Anthony Mormino at [email protected]

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Ridgewood Water Installation of New Water Mains Near the Eastside Reservoir Begins Today

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, Ridgewood Water’s project to install new water mains in the area of the Eastside Reservoir and future site of the Eastside PFAS Treatment Facility will begin tomorrow, April 1st, and is expected to be completed in approximately six weeks. The work will take place from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm on weekdays. Road closures,( East Saddle River, East Glen and Van Emburgh )  and detours will be in place. Please allow extra time when traveling in the area.

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