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Ridgewood firefighters battled a Single Family Home Fire on Corsa Terrace

Ridgewood firefighters battled a Single Family Home Fire on Corsa Terrace

photos courtesy of Boyd Loving’s Facebook page

September 12,2016

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ,  Ridgewood shortly after 11 AM on Sunday, 09/11. Fire department personnel from Glen Rock, HoHoKus, and Waldwick assisted Ridgewood units at the scene. All occupants of the home were safely evacuated by Ridgewood PD officers prior to the arrival of firefighters. No one was injured in the blaze, however the house sustained damage that rendered it temporarily uninhabitable.

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Former Ridgewood Council worked AGAINST those seeking to preserve the Historic Zabriskie Schedler House

Save Our Schedler Members & Friends at the Schedler House
file photo by Boyd Loving
Historic Zabriskie-Schedler House/Village Council’s September 7 Work Session
September 8,2016

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, Read this for a full understanding of how former Ridgewood Village Manager Roberta Sonenfeld, supported by former Village Council members Paul Aronsohn, Gwenn Hauck, and Albert Pucciarelli, worked AGAINST those seeking to preserve the Historic Zabriskie Schedler House.

Friends of Historic Zabriskie-Schedler House addressed the council last week . The Zabriskie-Schedler House, is a historical home built in the 1820’s and located at 460 West Saddle River Road.

The Zabriskie-Schedler House was purchased by the Village of Ridgewood, together with the surrounding area commonly referred to as the “Schedler Property”.

The group formerly known as RED made the following salient points to the council:

1.         Since 2012 our group, the “Friends of the Historic Zabriskie-Schedler House” (previously known as “RED” (the Ridgewood Eastside Development)) has been repeatedly asking the Village to stabilize the house (which would include roof replacement and mold remediation).  Despite our requests the only funds that have been spent by the Village thus far were for the installation of window louvers by the engineering department as a way to increase ventilation and decrease mold production.  In lieu of Village funds, privately donated funds have been spent to provide for tarps (on several occasions) in order to protect the house from further water infiltration and saturation and for the removal of vegetation posing a threat to the structure of the house.  These actions are merely “band aid” solutions which only have short term benefits.  With fall nearly upon us and the accompaniment of torrential rain, as well as another harsh winter on the horizon, more permanent solutions are desperately needed at this time.  Without immediate necessary remediation to the house, the house will not survive through the winter.

2.         First and foremost, in order to stabilize the house, the house is in dire need of a professional roof replacement.  The previous Council’s majority was instrumental in ensuring that no funds would be spent on the house stating that “no decision had been taken on the use of the house”.   The Council made this statement ignoring the fact that our group had provided a use – the Bergen County Historical Society was very interested in using the house as a library.  The interest was so strong that the President of the BCHS appeared at least twice before the Council.  This use, as well as other productive suggestions (such as a field house for athletic groups, a community center and a nature classroom/organic garden) were continually ignored because we believe that the majority of the Council’s intent was for the house to be demolished by neglect.

3.         The Schedler Property was purchased by the Village for $2.7 million funded through grants from the Bergen County Open Space, Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund.  The Village received a $1 million grant in 2009, followed by a $570,000 grant from Bergen County in 2010 and a $450,000 matching grant received in 2011 from the Garden State Preservation Trust Fund.  Historic preservation is an essential element of these grant monies.  Nonetheless, the 2009 grant application (attached hereto) failed to include the historic house together with its historic four lots (9,10,11 and 12) of land.  Also, a false NO answer was given on the grant application with respect to potential historic structures on the Schedler Property and the square footage of the house was grossly exaggerated to 21,000 when it is in fact only 2,200.  The Bergen County Cultural Historic Commission was not contacted in connection with the application, however the application falsely states that the Village contacted the Ridgewood Historic Commission (the “RHC”) – while in fact there is no record of any such contact.  In light of these errors it is our belief that the application was intentionally misleading in order to solely address the supposed “needs” of the Village’s athletic groups, rather than the needs of the entire community.

They went one step further and listed the steps that have been taken:

1.                  In 2014 our group, worked with the RHC on an application to give the house a Certificate of Historic Eligibility (a “COE”), which is attached hereto.  The COE was awarded on May 2, 2014 and it recognizes the historical importance of the structure.  This recognition allows the Village to file an application that once approved, places the house on the national historic preservation list.

2.                  In July of 2014, our group, tired of obtaining no assistance from the Council, worked on an application for grants to be issued by the Bergen County Historic Preservation Trust Fund, Bergen County Open Space, Recreation, Floodplain Protection, Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund.  These grants were a great opportunity to receive 50% of the total cost of stabilization since the Village kept stating that no funds were available for the house.  However, the Village Manager, Roberta Sonenfeld, refused to sign the application, nor would she provide the required 50% of funds to match the grant.  Moreover, Ms. Sonenfeld advised that our group was responsible for the 50% matching funds, but because the deadline to submit the application was very close, the application was never sent.

3.                  In July of 2015, thanks to privately donated funds our group was able to open a bank account to deposit the required 50% of matching grant funds in escrow.  This information was communicated to Ms. Sonenfeld and our group was able to compile a labor intensive grant application (herewith attached) that included cost estimates, the history of the house and several other necessary documents.  With 50% of matching funds in the account, there was no reason why the application could not go forward but, unbeknownst to us, there was another application being issued by Tim Cronin, the Director of Parks and Recreation, requesting Phase 1 grants to construct a 90′ multipurpose field.  Mr. Cronin’s application provided for the demolition of the house.  Additionally, while our group was always told that there were no capital funds available for the house, Mr. Cronin’s application clearly stated that the Village would provide $100,000 in capital funds, equal to 50% of matching funds. The grant application was signed by Ms. Sonenfeld.

4.                  On August 5, 2015, Mayor Aronsohn announced that in order to proceed with the application or municipal historic grants for the house, the Council needed to approve a resolution.  In addition, Mayor Aronsohn mentioned the need for a second resolution relative to the 90′ field, which also required Council approval.  The date for said resolutions was set for August 12, 2015.

5.                  On August 12 2015, the Council’s chambers were packed with concerned citizens who voiced their opinions regarding the house and the field.  The meeting minutes, herewith attached, offer an additional glimpse into what transpired that night. To a very disappointed crowd, Resolution 15-257: Acceptance of Open Space Committee Recommendations Concerning the Schedler Property was approved (by a majority of 3-2) and Resolution 15-258: Apply for Grant – Schedler House was denied (by a majority of 3-2).

6.                  With our chances of applying for municipal historic preservation grants being denied, we had felt that once again we wasted our time and effort to preserve the history of our Village and the Schedler Property.    Following the passage of these resolutions we were alerted by Ms. Sonenfeld that Resolution 15-257 included a section that would allow a 501(c)(3) group to file a grant application for the house on behalf of the Village on the conditions that the 501(c)(3) group would (i) enter into a 20-year lease with the Village and (ii) be responsible for the maintenance of the house.  Our group immediately filed for 501(c)(3) status and asked for lease documents, but Ms. Sonenfeld stated that the Village attorney would have to charge our group legal fees in connection with the preparation of the lease.  As a result, although a September 3, 2015 grant application deadline was met by our group, without 501(c)(3) status and a signed lease with the Village, our application was considered invalid.  All of these consequences could have been avoided if Ms. Sonenfeld had signed the application on behalf of the Village as the owner of the house.

 

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Ridgewood Open Houses for September 11th 2016

village Council election
file photo by Boyd Loving
Open Houses for Sun 9/11

1630837.1 MLS # 1630837
4 W Glen Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, House
Rose Hueneke, Broker Associate
Keller Williams Village Square Realty

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
18

1636064.1 MLS # 1636064
712 Maxwell Pl, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath, C/C
Nicholas Pavese, Sales Associate
Coldwell Banker, Hillsdale

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
22

1636735.1 MLS # 1636735
258 E Glen Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
2 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath, C/C
Joyce Albert, Sales Associate
Terrie O’Connor Realtors-Ridgewood

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
25

1635966.1 MLS # 1635966
579 Grove St, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath, Col
Peggy Jung, Sales Associate
Coldwell Banker, Ridgewood

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
22

1624919.1 MLS # 1624919
80 Pershing Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath, C/C
Youkyung Lee, Sales Associate
Eastern Realty, Inc.

  • Open House: 1:30 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
21

1626209.1 MLS # 1626209
4 W Glen Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Rose Hueneke, Broker Associate
Keller Williams Village Square Realty

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
20

1633570.1 MLS # 1633570
263 Lincoln Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath, Col
Karla Cino, Broker Owner
Karla K. Cino, LLC

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
22

1635658.1 MLS # 1635658
30 Maltbie Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath, Col
Ghada Abbasi, Sales Associate
Coldwell Banker, Ridgewood

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
23

1636441.1 MLS # 1636441
500 Smith Pl, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Joseph M. Hurley, Sales Associate
Weichert Realtors Ridgewood

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
25

1636142.1 MLS # 1636142
506 Farview St, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
William W. Mack, Sales Associate
Coldwell Banker, Kinnelon/Butler

  • Open House: 12:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11

1632957.1 MLS # 1632957
111 Somerville Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
6 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
2 Half Bath, Col
Sarah Wei, Sales Associate
Weichert Realtors Ridgewood

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
25

1628041.1 MLS # 1628041
135 Woodside Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 5 Full Bath, Col
Erin Pruitt, Sales Associate
Frances Ekblom, Sales Associate
Tarvin Realtors

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. Sun. 9/11
25

1636368.1 MLS # 1636368
155 W Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Laura Gill, Sales Associate
Coldwell Banker, Ridgewood

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
22

1630138.1 MLS # 1630138
143 Kenilworth Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Angele Ekert, Sales Associate
Keller Williams Village Square Realty

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
25

1622255.1 MLS # 1622255
310 Vesta Ct, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Tisha Ramge, Broker Associate
Keller Williams Village Square Realty

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
24

1636121.1 MLS # 1636121
32 Chelsea Pl, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Beth Freed, Broker Associate
Prominent Properties Sotheby’s International Realty-Ridgewood

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
24

1636234.1 MLS # 1636234
331 S Van Dien Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath, Col
Qizhan Yao, Broker Owner
Realmart Realty, LLC

  • Open House: 12:30 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
25

1614875.1 MLS # 1614875
251 Sollas Ct, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 4 Full Bath, B/L
Olivia O. Yang, Sales Associate
Weichert Realtors Ridgewood

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
25

1636586.1 MLS # 1636586
267 Eastside Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Lora T. Wejnert, Sales Associate
Keller Williams Village Square Realty

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
16

1629185.1 MLS # 1629185
1090 Hillcrest Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 4 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Ghada Abbasi, Sales Associate
Coldwell Banker, Ridgewood

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11

1636404.1 MLS # 1636404
344 Grandview Cir, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 4 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Megan Zangrilli, Sales Associate
Keller Williams Village Square Realty

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
25

1615483.1 MLS # 1615483
200 Claremont Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath,
2 Half Bath, Col
Till Horkenbach, Sales Associate
Keller Williams Village Square Realty

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
22

1628863.1 MLS # 1628863
329 Cantrell Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 4 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Suzanne Lenihan, Sales Associate
Tarvin Realtors

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. Sun. 9/11
25

1620183.1 MLS # 1620183
71 California St, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Jennifer Wilkes, Sales Associate
Weichert Realtors Ridgewood

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/18
25

1632381.1 MLS # 1632381
34 Clinton Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath, Col
Elizabeth H. Thauer, Sales Associate
Tarvin Realtors

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. Sun. 9/11
25

1630026.1 MLS # 1630026
279 West End Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath,
2 Half Bath, Col
Frances Ekblom, Sales Associate
Tarvin Realtors

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. Sun. 9/11
25

1636151.1 MLS # 1636151
355 Glenwood Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 5 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Christine Frosini, Sales Associate
Special Properties, Division Brook Hollow Group, Inc.

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
22

1629427.1 MLS # 1629427
305 West End Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 5 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Victoria Wilkinson, Sales Associate
Solutions Realty, LLC

  • Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 9/11
24
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Saturday morning the underpass on East Glen Ave in Ridgewood will be closed from 7am until 3pm for utility work

Road_work_theridgewoodblog

Traffic Alert for Saturday 9/10/16

September 10,2016

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, On Saturday morning the underpass on East Glen Ave will be closed from 7am until 3pm for utility work. Detours will be in place at Oak Street and North Monroe Street. Police officers will be stationed at intersections around the detour to assist with keeping traffic flowing.

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RIDGEWOOD WATER STAGE II WATER USE RESTRICTIONS STILL IN FORCE

Ridgewood_water_theridgewoodblog

STAGE II WATER USE RESTRICTIONS

September 8,2016

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, Ridgewood Water wants to remind you that Stage 2 water restrictions are still in force.

In accordance with the Codes of the Village of Ridgewood, the Boroughs of Glen Rock and Midland Park, and the Township of Wyckoff, Stage II water restrictions in Ridgewood, Glen Rock, Midland Park, and Wyckoff, New Jersey are in effect beginning June 23, 2016 until further notice.

Residents, businesses, governmental agencies, and all other water users must adhere to Stage II of the restrictions shown on our website,water.ridgewoodnj.net.

If your address is an odd number, you may irrigate on Tuesdays and Saturdays only. If your address is an even number, you may irrigate on Wednesdays and Sundays only. A handheld hose may be used at any time including Mondays. No irrigation is allowed on Mondays, Thursdays, or Fridays except the use of a hand held hose.

The restriction level had to be increased to Stage II because water is being consumed at a greater rate than the supply system can sustain, thus reducing the amount of water in reserve for fire fighting and other emergencies.

Compliance with the Stage II restrictions will reduce the likelihood that more severe controls will be needed. Your cooperation is appreciated.

Violators will be subject to a fine and court appearance

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Dump Truck Knocks Out Power , Phones and Cable Near Grove and Stevens in Ridgewood

Dump Truck Knocks Out Power

photo courtesy of Boyd Loving’s Facebook

September 9,2016

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, A dump truck became entangled in several utility wires on Thursday afternoon, 09/08 after its bed accidentally raised up while traveling eastbound on Grove Street near Stevens Avenue in Ridgewood. Cable TV, electric, and telephone services were interrupted to many nearby residences in the process. Two (2) passengers in the truck were trapped until firefighters and a PSE&G trouble shooter were able to confirm that their exit from the passenger compartment would present no life hazard. The truck’s driver had safely exited prior to the arrival of emergency responders. Grove Street was closed in both directions between South Pleasant Avenue and South Van Dien Avenue for several hours following the crash. The truck was able to drive away on its own power after cables were removed by cable TV, electric, and telephone company technicians. No injuries were reported in the incident. Ridgewood PD issued eight (8) summonses in connection with the mishap.

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Members of the Ridgewood Councils Opposition engage in Rumor and Innuendo at Ridgewood Council Meeting

Rurik Halaby
file photo of Mr. Halaby
September 9th 2016
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, several readers have asked “What we’re all these comments in the council meeting about a raffle at Mt Carmel with a $25k prize. Those comments were perplexing.

It seemed to be implied by Mr. Halaby that there was a fix in and that is why the Mayor won the raffle.

The fact is the church was in Glen Rock, not Mt. Carmel. And the suggestion by Mr. Halaby that the raffle was rigged was pathetic and highly insulting to the church. What by the way did that have to do with anything? Just reaching for something ridiculous to attack the Mayor, and attack the church while he was at it.

Perhaps the opposition should take there own advice and behave civilly or maybe the council should morve to ban several residents from speaking at Village council meetings for “trolling”.
Posted on 19 Comments

“PissedOff”reader says ,Bible says that the person who did no sin shall throw the first stone, and yet here we are

Paul_Aronsohn_dunking_theridgewoodblog

 

Ridgewood NJ, “PissedOff” writes  from Starbucks perhaps :

“I wonder why there is so much hate and criticism. The role of the manager is to act as a spokesperson for the Village employees and be a part of the council. The council is elected to be a fair judge between the village government and the residents. Now, there is no way everyone would agree with the way things were handled and they certainly will not be 100% in support of going forward.
It’s amusing to see how this blog is becoming a podium for people to anonymously shame, disrespect and disregard others. Bible says that the person who did no sin shall throw the first stone, and yet here we are.
I would love to see the blog writers to put their energy into somethings more productive and help the community in a better way rather than just trying to creat a controversy. Paying taxes doesn’t mean we own people. This blog needs to be reported Since it’s acting as a platform for stirring hate and making the collar environment so toxic. SHAME AND DISGUSTING, THIS IS A PATHETIC EXCUSE FOR REPORTING.”

Well……………We got nothing lol ???

 

 

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No Contract Yet For Ridgewood Teachers

Ridgewood Teachers

September 7, 2016

Dear Parents and Guardians,
Now that your children have started the new school year, we wanted to provide you with information about the status of the contract negotiations with the Ridgewood Education Association (REA).
Last night, September 6, the Board of Education members and the REA negotiating team met with the state-appointed super conciliator for ten hours. Although progress was made, settlement was not reached.
While we strive to settle the contract, our teachers and support staff continue to be paid under the terms and conditions of the expired contract. Teachers and support staff will receive their full salaries and benefits without any interruption or reduction. Stipends paid to staff members hired as advisors to our clubs, sports and performing arts extra-curricular programs will also continue to be fully funded in accordance with the expired contract.
However, please understand that at this time, teachers may refuse to take on club advisory responsibilities. They also may refuse to volunteer in some activities that fall outside the contract. For example, they may refuse to chaperone overnight/after-school field trips. If such actions occur, your child’s principal or other administrator will communicate this information directly to you.
In conversations with parents, some have offered to volunteer and take over club and field trip responsibilities. Some activities can be sponsored or supervised by parents, while other can’t for various insurance and personal liability reasons. Your child’s principal is the best source of guidance on this topic.
Teachers and support staff may also choose to strictly adhere to their contractual 7.5-hour work day, as listed below in parentheses. To minimize any disruptions to our children or our programs, and to keep our school buildings running smoothly during this time, we are asking you to follow the designated drop-off and pick-up times:
• Elementary schools (8 a.m.-3:35 p.m.) o Drop-off time: not before 8:35 a.m. o Pick-up time: 3 p.m.
• Middle schools (7:45 a.m.-3:20 p.m.) o Drop-off time: not before 7:45 a.m. o Pick-up time: 2:55 p.m.
• High School (7:40 a.m.-3:15 p.m.) o Drop-off time: 7:40 a.m. o Pick-up time: 3:15 p.m.
Lastly, it is important to clear up any misconception that our teachers and secretaries can go on strike. In New Jersey it is illegal for public employees to strike. A 1967 NJ Supreme Court decision, In Re Block, confirmed this. Since then, teachers in districts such as Manville and Middletown have tried to strike and have had the county courts grant injunctions stopping them. Some teachers were arrested for civil contempt in violating the court injunctions.
The NJ Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC) has also re-affirmed that strikes are illegal and are not a protected union activity. The courts and PERC have consistently upheld the withholding of pay/benefits on days when teachers refuse to work.
While changes to activities may be an unfortunate reality during this period, it is important to stress that the Board of Education is committed to finalizing a contract that fairly compensates our teachers without jeopardizing the financial integrity of the district.
We are scheduled to meet again with the super conciliator on September 12 at 6:30 PM. Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding as the Board works through this process to finalize a labor contract.
Ridgewood Board of Education Sheila Brogan, President Vince Loncto, Vice President Christina Krauss Jim Morgan Jennie Smith Wilson
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New Jersey State Police : It’s Not #CreepyClowns that Parents Should be Worried About

creepy clown

A message from the New Jersey State Police

It’s Not #CreepyClowns that Parents Should be Worried About

There’s been a lot of talk about creepy clown sightings these days. It’s true. Recently in both North and South Carolina, there have been reported sightings of, for lack of a better term, creepy clowns prowling around neighborhoods, scaring children. Some reports claim that these clowns could be a publicity stunt while others claim that these people have a much more sinister intent, which is supported by reports of some attempting to lure kids closer with money.

Well, we know that there are a lot of good, hard-working clowns right here in Jersey. Heck, you might even work with one or two (wink). Of course, it’s probably their part-time job, unless you all work for a circus. With that being said, we’re happy to report no suspicious or creepy clown activity here in Jersey

But these recent event gives us an opportunity to talk about safety tips that you can give your kids. After all, the kids are back in school, which means many are walking to and from home. You see, a scary-looking clown beckoning children closer may be all that is needed to have your child do the right thing, which is to walk in the other direction. It’s the unassuming person, man or woman, who your child should be wary of. Here are some tips:

*Talk to your kids

*Tell them who they can expect to come and get them in an emergency (family member or close friend)

*When walking to school, there is strength in numbers—walk in a group

*Never get into a stranger’s car

*Keep a safe distance from strangers asking for directions or help

*Tell your kids to yell, scream and kick if grabbed by a stranger

*Look around, stop looking for Pokemon—be aware of your surroundings

*If a stranger claims to be a cop but is not in uniform, kids should find a trusted adult

Let’s talk about that last tip for a minute. Are your kids familiar with the faces of the local police? Don’t just rely on the cops visiting schools. Drop by a station anytime to have your kids meet the troops or local police who patrol your area! It’s a great way get to know the troops and for the troops to get to know you and your kids!

For all of the coulrophobics out there, we apologize for the pic, but it was necessary. Sadly, at the end of the day, if all of the bad people out there stuck out as much as a person dressed as a clown, we wouldn’t have write posts like this.

Be safe, people!

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Reader suggests all 5 council members should meet with each department again to reevaluate and understand what’s been going on

New Ridgewood Council Gets Down to Village Business

file photo by Boyd Loving

She exhibited several episodes of unprofessionalism and inappropriate behavior to be our village manager. Her classless, drama-filled exit yesterday; interfering with citizen’s right to petition and most importantly spending over $200,000 of taxpayer money on a highly contested, questionable outcome of the garage. She signed construction documents committing to a floor plan for the garage BEFORE the November vote. She did not seem to understand that she reported to a 5 member council, that all 5 members represent residents. Her treatment towards 2 council members and residents was horrible and several displays of arrogant, disrespectful treatment not only displayed bad judgment but her incapability to manage effectively. I think all 5 council members should meet with each department again to reevaluate and understand what’s been going on (Roberta led meetings with new council members but her presence thwarted full disclosure from employees).

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Reader says the Village Manager’s method of leaving that most reveals her true character and ability

Roberta

I heard she was a competent administrator, but the few times I spoke with her, I had the sense she did not understand numbers, so I never formed an impression of her abilities one way or the other. At the same time, I believe she too strongly pushed Paul Aronsohn’s self-promotion and political agenda, by, for instance urging people not to sign the parking petition. I also thought her letter to the editor a few weeks back regarding Schedler was completely off the mark and bizarre. Having politicized her position and made it personal, she created her own fate.

Perhaps it is her method of leaving that most reveals her true character and ability. Arrive on Tuesday to announce you are leaving a CEO role on Friday and then send emails to staff saying its all too hostile for you to stay on??? A person in that position – – someone who signed up to promote and preserve the health, safety and welfare of 25,000 people – – should have the fortitude and wherewithal to give adequate notice, ensure a smooth transition and go out with head held high. Instead, we get more drama.

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Village Council Meeting Tonight at 7:30pm

New Ridgewood Village Council

VILLAGE COUNCIL

SPECIAL PUBLIC MEETING

SEPTEMBER 7, 2016

7:30 P.M.

1. Call to Order – Mayor

2. Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meeting Act

MAYOR: “Adequate notice of this meeting has been provided by a posting on the bulletin board in Village Hall, by mail to the Ridgewood News, The Record, and by submission to all persons entitled to same as provided by law of a schedule including the date and time of this meeting.”

3.   Roll Call

4.   ORDINANCES – CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING

3540 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Regulations for Political Signs and Temporary Signs

3541 – Repeal Ordinance 3066

5.   Resolution #16-254 – Confirm Endorsement of Community Development Block Grant – SHARE, Inc. – 130 Prospect Street – Emergency Repair of Hot Water Heating Boiler – Confirms   endorsement of a $15,000 CDB grant. This resolution does not obligate the financial resources of the Village but will expedite the expenditure of Community Development funds.

6.   Adjournment

THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE COUNCIL’S

PUBLIC WORKSHOP AGENDA

SEPTEMBER 7, 2016

1.         7:30 pm – Call to Order – Mayor

2.         Statement of Compliance with Open Public Meeting Act

Mayor:  “Adequate notice of this meeting has been provided by a posting on the bulletin board in Village Hall, by mail to the Ridgewood News, The Record, and by submission         to all persons entitled to same as provided by law of a schedule including the date and       time of this meeting.”

3.         Roll Call – Village Clerk

4.         Flag Salute/Moment of Silence

5.         Public Comments (Not to Exceed 5 Minutes per Person – 30 Minutes in Total)

6.         Discussion

a.         Community Development Block Grant – SHARE, INC.

7.         Motion to Suspend Work Session and Convene Special Public Meeting

8.         Special Public Meeting – See Attached Agenda

9.         Motion to Adjourn Special Public Meeting and Reconvene Work Session

10.       Presentation

Update on Lead in Water
Friends of Schedler

11.       Discussion

Ridgewood Water

Award Contract – Two Jeep Patriot Vehicles – Water Department
Award Contract – Feasibility Study for Removing PFCs at the Carr Treatment

Facility

Award Contract – Design and Construction Administrative Services for Various Improvements at Booster and Transfer Stations

b.         Parking

Valet Parking – Chestnut Street
Traffic Calming Project Near Travell School
Sherman Place, Stanley Place and Pomander Walk Parking Issues
Amendment to Parking Regulations for Brookside Avenue
Regulations on Broken Meters

c.         Budget

Award Contract – Ford F350 Pickup Truck – Traffic & Signal Department
Award Contract – Ford F350 Pickup Truck – Traffic & Signal Department
Award Contract – Purchase of Brush Chipper – Parks Department
Award Contract – Two Stump Grinders – Parks Department
Award Contract – Second Year – Laboratory Analysis Services – Graydon Pool & Water Pollution Control Facility
Award Contract – Second Year – Sodium Bisulfite Solution and Sodium Hypochlorite Solution – Water Pollution Control Facility
Award Contract – Elgin Street Sweeper – Streets Department
Award Contract – Electronic Equipment, Software and Computer Upgrades
Award Contract – Property Maintenance Services for Derelict Properties
EUS – Blower Motor – Water Pollution Control Facility
Authorize Extension of Leasing Maintenance Program – Police Cars
Surplus of Dump Truck – Parks Department
Ridgewood Senior Citizen Housing Corporation Pilot
Amend Capital Budget for Northwest Bergen Central Dispatch
Shared Service Agreement – Child Health Clinic to Include Fair Lawn
Reject Bid – Janitorial Services

d.         Policy

Letter to Planning Board on Revisiting Master Plan for AH-2, B-3-R, and C-R Zones
General Lighting Policy at Village Parks and Lots
Amend Ordinance #3547 – Sale of Dogs and Cats
Ribbons for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Transportation Alternatives Program Grant
Amend Chapter 275 – Yard Waste
Discussion of Ord. 3532 – Regulations of Audio/Video Recordings at Public Meetings
Historic Preservation Grant – Schedler House
Discussion of Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund Grant – Kings Pond Park
Policy on Public Comment

e.         Operations

Authorize Property Maintenance Violation Service at 505 Fairway Road
Cleanup of Gypsy Pond/Kings Pond Area

12.       Review of September 14, 2016 Regular Public Meeting Agenda

13.       Manager’s Report

14.       Council Reports

15.       Public Comments (Not to Exceed 5 Minutes per Person)

16.       Resolution to go into Closed Session

17.       Closed Session

a. Legal – Valley Hospital Litigation; HealthBarn

b. Personnel – Village Clerk’s Office, Village Manager’s Office

18.       Adjournment

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Ridgewood firefighters Quickly Douse Hopper Ave Kitchen Fire

Ridgewood firefighters Quickly Douse Hopper Ave Kitchen Fire

photos courtesy of Boyd Lovings Facebook Page

July 17,2016

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, A kitchen fire at 341 Hopper Avenue, Ridgewood was quickly knocked down by Ridgewood firefighters on Saturday afternoon, 07/16. No injuries were reported and damage to the kitchen was minimal. Ridgewood PD also responded.

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2016 Chief Michael Feeney Jr. Ridgewood Police Academy Class #3

Ridgewood Police Chief Michael Feeney Jr

all photos courtesy of the Ridgewood Police Department
June 30,2016
the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, The Ridgewood Police Department has announced the 3rd annual Chief Michael Feeney, Jr. Police Academy scheduled from Thursday June 23rd to Friday July 1st. The academy is open to Ridgewood Residents entering 6th 7th and 8th grades in the fall of 2016.

For only a small fee is $50 per student the Academy which includes two shirts per student a baseball hat a string bag and transportation to our field trip.

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Sgt.Lembo finds out the bad guy can’t get away from the K-9

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Lt.Paul Acakios talking to the students about the day in the life of an inmate.

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This year’s academy features demonstrations from The Ridgewood Police Department, Bergen County Sheriff’s Department K-9 and Bomb Squad, Police Motorcycles, Ridgewood Emergency Services, FBI, Ridgewood Fire Department, Helicopter landing as well as demonstrations from various other agencies. A field trip to the Bergen County Law and Public Safety Complex in Mahwah is also scheduled.

The height of the seven-day Chief Michael Feeney Junior Police Academy may have come on Wednesday when bomb squad members blew up a watermelon.

According to the Ridgewood Police, “The Junior Police Academy has proven to be a valuable experience for all involved and has provided a vital link between the Police Department and the youth of Ridgewood. Further, the Junior Police Academy has afforded students a deeper understanding of the Police function as well as an increased ability to see what the Police and the community can do to serve the Village. The overwhelming success of our Junior Police Academy class has far exceeded the expectations of everyone involved. This program attracts a highly motivated group of recruits, and the Instructors thoroughly enjoy their interaction with these young people. We look forward to another great class.”