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Murder in the Stacks! Solve a Roaring ’20s Mystery at Westwood Public Library’s 2025 Fundraiser

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Westwood NJ, get ready to channel your inner detective at the Westwood Public Library’s thrilling Murder Mystery Party on October 17, 2025! This Roaring ’20s-themed event invites Bergen County residents to don flapper dresses and pinstriped suits to solve a fictional “murder” while raising funds for library programs. With interactive actors, a speakeasy vibe, and a silent auction, this adults-only evening promises suspense and fun. Here’s everything you need to know about this must-attend community event in Westwood.

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Westwood Launches Composting Pilot Program With Help From Eagle Scout Project

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

WESTWOOD, NJ — The Borough of Westwood is kicking off a new composting pilot program aimed at cutting down landfill waste, saving money, and creating nutrient-rich soil — with the help of a local Eagle Scout.

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Westwood Eagle Scout Restores WWII Anchor for Veterans Park Memorial

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photos courtesy of Westwood Mayor Ray Arroyo

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

WESTWOOD, NJ — A piece of World War II naval history has found a new home in Westwood, thanks to the dedication of Eagle Scout candidate Michael Rocco Greco of Troop 321.

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Westwood Rallies for Beloved Physics Teacher Henry Chen in Need of Kidney Donor

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

WESTWOOD, NJ — For more than a decade, Westwood Regional High School physics teacher Henry Chen has inspired students with his passion, humor, and endless dedication. Known to his students as their “Chendren,” Chen has built a reputation for staying late to tutor, fostering a tight-knit classroom community, and even hosting fun traditions like the annual Chen Awards.

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Former Westwood & Morris Hills Music Teacher Surrenders License After Sex Assault Conviction

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Westwood NJ, a former music instructor who taught in both the Westwood Regional School District and Morris Hills Regional School District has permanently surrendered his teaching credentials following convictions for sexual misconduct with students.

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Hollywood Heroes Inc. in Westwood Temporarily Closes for Renovation—Goes Fully Online Until Spring 2026

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photos courtesy of Hollywood Heroes Inc. in Westwood

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

WESTWOOD, NJHollywood Heroes Inc., the beloved vintage toy store located in the heart of downtown Westwood, will temporarily close its physical location on September 1, 2025, as its building undergoes major renovations. Owner Jordan Hembrough confirmed the shop will shift to online-only operations until construction wraps—likely by April 2026.

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Westwood, NJ Community Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of 12-Year-Old Girl

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

WESTWOOD, NJ — A wave of grief has swept through the Westwood community following the tragic death of a 12-year-old Westwood Regional Middle School student on Friday, July 25, 2025.

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Westwood Launches “Think Safe, Ride Safe” Helmet Initiative with Sweet Rewards for Kids

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Westwood, NJ – Summer 2025 – Kids in Westwood have a new reason to wear their helmets while biking this summer – free treats and discounts from local businesses!

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Kinderkamack Road Repaving Project Continues in Westwood: Speed Limit Reduced to 30 MPH

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

WESTWOOD, NJ – Mayor Ray Arroyo announced that Bergen County’s Kinderkamack Road repaving project continued on Friday, July 18, with work scheduled between Westwood Avenue and Old Hook Road.

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Quick Thinking by Westwood First Responders Saves July 4th Celebration After Transformer Explosion

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

WESTWOOD, NJ — A potentially disastrous Fourth of July evening in downtown Westwood was averted thanks to the swift and coordinated actions of local first responders and utility crews, according to Westwood Mayor Ray Arroyo.

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Westwood Hatches Three New Eagle Scouts

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photo courtesy of Westwood Mayor Ray Arroyo

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Westwood NJ, according to Westwood Mayor Ray Arroyo on Saturday June 14th, Westwood Councilmembers Cheryl Hodges, Beth Dell, Erin Collins, and I convened at Zion Lutheran Church and presented Certificates of Achievement to BSA Troop 350’s newly hatched Eagle Scouts: Eric Herzing, Mark Marinkovic, and Ean Ralston.

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Westwood Police Department is Currently Investigating a Misinformation Campaign of an Imminent ICE Raid

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Westwood NJ, the Westwood Police Department is currently investigating the source of a misinformation campaign that was aimed at creating a level of hysteria in our community. The individual(s) responsible for this act purported that the Westwood Police Department contacted a local church and reported that immigration raids would be taking place on Friday 06-13-2025. This misinformation spread like wildfire and led to an unnecessary level of hysteria in our community. The religious institution was not responsible for sending the messaging that was put out publicly. The Police Department did not contact the church and pass that alleged information along.

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Gangs of Teenage Bicyclist Terrorize Pedestrians and Businesses in Westwood and Surrounding Towns

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Westwood NJ, Chief Michael R. Pontillo and the members of the Westwood Police Department would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge the growing number of complaints regarding unsafe and disruptive behavior by juvenile bicyclists in our community. These complaints vary in nature but have been occurring in the Central Business District and surrounding areas.

We want to be clear: while we fully support outdoor activity and youth independence, that must be balanced with responsibility and public safety. Reckless riding, disregard for traffic laws, and obstruction of roadways place both the juveniles and the public at serious risk.

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Toba Restaurant & Bar Debuts in Westwood, Bringing Modern American Global Cuisine to Bergen County Led by Food Network “Chopped” Executive Chef Gregory Stott

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Westwood NJ, a fresh culinary destination has arrived in Bergen County. Toba  Restaurant & Bar has opened its doors in Westwood, New Jersey, offering a bold take on modern American  global cuisine, in a sophisticated yet relaxed setting. With every dish crafted entirely by hand, Toba sets a  new standard for approachable fine dining in the region. 

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