photo courtesy of Ridgewood Parks & Recreation
June 18,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held on Friday afternoon for the new Maple Turf Field! Village Council, Village Management, Director of Parks and Recreation, Assistant Superintendent of Parks, representatives from the Fields Committee, PRC Board and sports groups were there to join in on the celebration!
I too am a voracious reader and believe that a library is all about books books books.
But Nancy Greene is a brilliant director, fulling the needs of many different kinds of library patrons. Hence the library having in addition to books many programs, many discussion groups, many different types of resources.
Although I am personally disappointed that the new renovation, if it goes through, will have fewer books, I believe that director Nancy Greene, knows what she is doing, understands the current needs of the majority of patrons, who certainly do not include me.
Now if people like myself are ever going to change the situation we have to convince people of all ages to become more interested in reading books, instead of spending time consuming all the other media vying and getting their attention.
I as a reader, do not have more than two through thirteen for TV. I don’t own a smart phone or a tablet. When I travel I pack books to read. I don’t watch movies although I have a DVD player. Well, seldom do I use my DVD player. I have not joined Facebook. I don’t Twitter nor read Twitter accounts and other social media. I do read this Blog as an interested Ridgewood resident,
Nancy Greene knows that I am not the majority. She is catering to the majority as she should.
June 17,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, There could be dozens of similar businesses in a big city. When the market is so oversaturated it can be hard to make your brand distinctive from the others. However, in a much smaller village, there is plenty of room for experimentation.
Ridgewood is a village in Bergen County, New Jersey, United States. As of the 2010 United States Census, the village population was 24,958, reflecting an increase of 22 from the 24,936 counted in the 2000 Census, which had in turn increased by 784 from the 24,152 counted in the 1990 Census. Ridgewood is a suburban bedroom community of New York
Additionally, your business can be the first to appear and find a niche spot: being the only provider of tattoo machines or a flower delivery service can be a perfect way to build a name for your company.
Naturally, less competition means more opportunities for your venture, however, there are many pitfalls that a new company can face during its first few years. Typically, there are fewer industries and they are less diverse compared to the regular cities.
Additionally, the habits of the consumers will be determined by the proximity of the village to other cities. If consumers will have an incentive to travel in order to save money it may bring a small but steady income. Otherwise, you may want to hold sales from time to time in order to attract more customers.
Households in Ridgewood, NJ have a median income of $147,823.
The business volume in the small towns and villages is usually much lower in comparison to larger cities. Even with a good place in a downtown of a village, you won’t be able to reach the same level of sales as similar shops have in cities.
What is more, since the human resources of the small towns are limited and more people would rather go to the big cities where the wages are larger, you might find yourself in a situation when you will have to employ inexperienced staff in order for your venture to become more profitable.
June 17,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Celebrating 17 years with Farm to table, fresh and delicious produce.
Ridgewood’s Farmers’ Market Every Sunday from 9am-3pm westside of NJ Transit train station…
Enjoy our farmers vegetables and fruit until Thanksgiving.
Stroll and get some fresh Mozzarella.Homemade Jams-with flavors you cannot get any other place.
Fresh baked goods, preservative free.Pickles on a stick for the kids and more.Beautiful flowers for your yard.
FARM – and more – TO your TABLE…for more details – [email protected] 201-445-2600
Ridgewood Chamber Annual Farmer’s Market
Sun, June 24, 2018 – Sun, November 18, 2018
Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Train Station Parking Lot, Godwin Ave and W. Ridgewood Ave
June 18,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, as has been previously reported on the Ridgewood blog , the Ridgewood Public Library is looking to embark on a major renovation . While the renovation was described in glowing terms , the staff noticed the absence of any mentions of books .
Ridgewood Public Library Renovation: What about the books? https://theridgewoodblog.net/ridgewood-public-library-renovation-what-about-the-books/
So we asked reader and an old friend who happens to be a librarian and a voracious reader Jason Vigorito the Reference Librarian at Eastern Monroe Public Library in Stroudsburg, PA. a few questions about books and libraries . Jason has been there for two years and has worked in Libraries for a total of 7 years .
TRB : what is the purpose of a public library?
Jason , “A public library’s purpose is three-fold: it’s an information repository for print, digital, video, audio, and other published mediums; it’s a community center for local residents to gather for various activities; and, it provides community assistance in a variety of ways, including literacy promotion, general education development, charitable work, and connections between various individuals and organizations. ”
TRB : has that purpose changed?
Jason , “Libraries, in the formal community-accessible modern sense, have been around for over a hundred years. Their three-fold purpose has always been standard, however the focus within each has shifted and widened considerably given how times have generally changed. For example, focus on certain forms of print–like newspapers and microfiche–has shifted in a dramatic decrease while digital databases have literally begun from scratch and widened into many niches and accessibility options. ”
TRB: why do people use a library ?
Jason, ” People unfamiliar with libraries tend to think that patrons visit them basically just to borrow books and maybe read newspapers or magazines. That’s only a small percentage of why people patronize libraries. The list is extensive. Some of the many other reasons include: to find a quiet place to study; to grab a coffee and snack (if your library has a cafe, as mine does); to watch performances by musicians and artists; to take a class (like on how to do your taxes, or on personal finance, or work toward a GED, or how to navigate social media); to research local history or one’s family tree; to buy books and other materials at sales; to meet with government representatives in forums; to participate in charity drives; to attend fun activities whether for adults or the whole family; to watch films; to access computer programs and the Internet when they don’t have them at home; to seek refuge when natural disasters hit; and on and on and on.”
TRB : what is the value of books?
Jason , ” If you do an online search, you’ll find some pithy quotes on the power of books. My personal favorite is Dr. Who’s: “You want weapons. We’re in a library. Books are the best weapon in the world. This room’s the greatest arsenal we could have. Arm yourself!” The original Twilight Zone tv show had some great episodes on the subject, as well. It’s possible that books’ value can be broadly applied in two ways:
First, they are travel guides–they take you from the here and now and transport you to the there and/or other times;
Second, they are teachers–they expose you to new ideas and perspectives. Books are the torches that pass ideas down through the ages of otherwise dark ignorance.
In other words, a book’s value is in creating deeper, more cultivated value within its readers. Learning is always forward-moving, and you can’t unlearn what you learn.”
TRB : why do we need books?
Jason , ” We need books in order to prevent history from repeating itself while simultaneously continuing to advance civilization. History shows that with greater accessibility to books in general, society progresses more rapidly and expansively. The best example is Gutenberg and the advent of his printing press–it incontrovertibly proves that civilization took a massive leap forward in every respect thanks to the printed word. Without books, we might very well regress back to some forgotten yet frightening times; just take a look at societies where books were reproached by, or outright prohibited to, the people.”
June 17,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, According to Councilmen Sedon the Village of Ridgewood shade tree nursery just had a new drip emitter system installed to water the nearly 150 thriving young trees at the recycling center. A special thanks goes out to Shade Tree Commissioner George Wolfson and Junior Shade Tree Commissioner Hunter Sedon for lending a hand to set it up with Parks Supervisor Dan Cramblitt.
photo Village of Ridgewood Mayor Susan Knudsen
June 17,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, yes we have to admit it ,the new Maple Park Field looks beautiful! The returfed field is ready for play with the newest natural “soil” coconut infill!
As promised in mid May by Councilmen Ramone Hache who said ,according to the vendor, the production and shipping of the new turf is on schedule. In the meantime, crews will be working on the leveling of the sub base and conducting tests to ensure proper drainage. The replacement should be completed by early June.
In September it was recognized by the council the Maple Park turf field is in need of a major update , the Village did apply to Bergen County Open Space funding for the 50/50 matching grant to replace the turf at Maple Field. The Village plans to use Bergen County Open space funds, Village open space funds and money from the capital budget . The decision has been made to replace the 12 year old field due to is heavy use and deteriorated condition.
At the time resident Boyd Loving asked if the Village expected to receive any money from the class action suite filed against the manufacturing over the fields not living up to their expected life span? Village Attorney Matt Rogers explained that there were on going talks with Field Turf to defray costs of a replacement field and will be made public when negotiations are concluded
photo Hendrix at Woodstock
June 16,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, if you are thinking about “rocken out” at you next BBQ ,better make sure they band is done by 11pm . The Village Council on Wednesday night approved an amendment that adds one more thing to an ordinance banning nighttime noise , “band or music”.
Live bands have been added to the list of nuisances that are restricted after 11 p.m. Ridgewood has long had an ordinance banning nighttime noise, but it specified things like whistles, horns, stereos and ringing bells.
Some have interpreted the action as an attempt to shut down live music , while other see it as another way to control parties but the council seemed to be attempting to say neighbors should just mind their won business and butt out before 11 p.m.
Mayor Susan Knudsen , told North Jersey Media ,”This is to allow someone to hire a band without fear of having it shut down, up to a reasonable hour,”
In the past a phone call from an angry neighbor could have had the police shut down a party at any hour. Now, those guitar solos and pounding rhythms are allowed until 11 p.m.. After 11pm the music can’t be loud enough “to disturb the sleep of persons in the immediate vicinity.”
June 16,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, The Ridgewood Fourth of July Celebration Committee announces their 2018 celebration theme as “Rockin’ Ridgewood: Celebrating All-American Music.”
The 2018 theme aims to celebrate the impact of music on American culture throughout history and highlight the talents of many performers from our community.
Ridgewood Fourth of July Celebration ,Wednesday, July 4, 2018
Schedule of Events :
Flag Raising: 9:00 am – Wilsey Square
Speaker: Paul Felice
Recognition of Special Guest
Kasschau Memorial Band Shell Committee – Celebrating 60 years in Ridgewood!
Recognition of the Grand Marshall
Ridgewood Resident and Irish Tenor – Ciaran Sheehan
Demonstration by NJ Militia Heard’s Brigade
“To the Colors” performed by Sean Zuckerman
“The Star Spangled Banner” performed by Ciaran Sheehan
Parade begins 10:00 am (Rain or Shine) – South Monroe Street and Godwin Avenue: See the Parade route.
Evening Entertainment:
Gates open 6:00 pm – Veteran’s Field (Rain Date: July 5th)
Live Entertainment: Eugene Thomas and No Big Deal & The Dad’s Night Band
50/50 drawing at 8:30pm
Approx. 9:15: National Anthem
Fireworks: Immediately following evening entertainment at dusk – Veteran’s Field (Rain Date: July 5th)
June 16,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, The NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors today approved a financing agreement with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) which provides up to $600 million toward the construction of a new Portal Bridge. The commitment solidifies New Jersey’s local share of the project cost.
“We’re not going to kick the can down the road any longer,” said Department of Transportation Commissioner and NJ TRANSIT Board Chair Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti. “The time is long overdue for a new Portal Bridge, which is the foundation of many commuter frustrations. The taxpayers of New Jersey deserve a transportation system which will drive the economy and reliably get them to jobs, schools, and recreation.”
“This funding is proof that Governor Murphy, NJ TRANSIT and the State of New Jersey are firmly committed to advancing this vital transportation infrastructure project,” said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Kevin Corbett. “A better tomorrow for NJ TRANSIT starts today. Our customers have suffered far too long from the outdated, unreliable Portal Bridge. A new bridge can’t wait any longer.”
The resolution approved by the NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors authorizes the Executive Director in consultation with the Board Chair to execute and deliver the funding agreement with the NJEDA. The EDA will issue up to $600 million in bonds which will be paid back over a 30-year term from the state Transportation Trust Fund (TTF). This same funding structure was utilized in 1999 for the construction of the River LINE light rail system.
BACKGROUND
The existing Portal Bridge, built in 1910, is a two-track, railroad swing-type drawbridge that spans the Hackensack River in New Jersey. The project will replace the existing two-track Portal Bridge with a new two-track fixed structure that will be approximately 2.33 miles long and will have a clearance that accommodates current and forecasted maritime traffic, which will eliminate the need for a moveable span that interrupts rail operations and results in delays due to mechanical failures. When built, the new Portal North Bridge will allow for a 10 percent increase in peak hour passenger capacity.
On July 14, 2016, NJ TRANSIT entered into the Project Development phase of the FTA’s Capital Investment Grant (CIG) program. The Preliminary Design Phase for construction of the new Portal North Bridge is complete and a Record of Decision was received from the FTA in July 2017. Early Work construction, including utility relocation and Right of Way acquisition is underway. NJ TRANSIT is the project sponsor for the new Portal North Bridge project.
In September 2017, NJ TRANSIT applied for CIG funding that, if approved by the FTA and received by NJ TRANSIT, would cover a share of all project costs. The board actions by NJ TRANSIT and NJEDA will support the application for CIG funds to move forward with an improved rating.
The new Portal North Bridge is fully designed and fully permitted.
June 16,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
River Vale NJ , Assemblywomen Holly Schepisi rolled out a list of what will happen if the state of New Jersey shuts down . In parenthesis we editorialized a look on the bright side .
1. All non essential state agencies such as DMV will be closed. Therefore if you need to register a vehicle or get a license renewed do so within the next 2 weeks.
2. Courts will close ( cant go to jail)
3. State beaches & parks may close ( visit the Hamptons )
4. Non essential state employees will be furloughed. (they get a summer vacation)
5. Non emergency road projects will stop. ( less traffic jams )
Statement from Governor (Tax Everything )Murphy on Budget Negotiations (Blame Christie )
“For the past eight years, Governor Christie cut irresponsible budget deals that weakened New Jersey’s economy and hurt our middle class, resulting in 11 credit downgrades. These budgets shortchanged permanent priorities like NJ TRANSIT and our public schools by resorting to short-term gimmicks.
“I refuse to do that. When it came to making the hard choices to fix our problems my predecessor kicked the can down the road – I won’t. New Jersey deserves a real budget that offers real solutions.
“I have a simple approach: Fix what’s broken and make sure that everyone is paying their fair share. New Jersey didn’t elect me to paper over problems with the same failed policies of the past.”
The real question raised by our friend Chris Rogers for the people of NJ:
Will Chris Christie still be able to use the state owned beach house?
June 16,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Washington DC, The New Jersey Department of Health is working with the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and several other states on an outbreak of Salmonella Mbandaka associated with Kellogg’s Honey Smacks Cereal.
As of June 14, 2018; 73 people have been infected from 31 states. NJ currently has three confirmed cases associated with this outbreak, one each in Bergen, Mercer and Gloucester. Thirty (77%) of 39 people interviewed reported eating cold cereal and 14 people specifically reported eating Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal. New Jersey cases interviewed so far did not report consuming the product. Additional details on this outbreak can be found at: https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/Mbandaka-06-18/index.html
On June 14, 2018, the Kellogg Company recalled 15.3 oz. and 23 oz. packages of Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal that have a “best if used by” date from June 14, 2018 through June 14, 2019. The recalled products were distributed across the United States as well as in Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico, the Caribbean, Guam, Tahiti and Saipan. Consumers are being advised to not eat any of the recalled Honey Smacks cereal even if no one got sick and to throw the rest away or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. Any containers that the cereal was stored in should be washed with warm, soapy water before re-using. Additional details on the recall can be found at: https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm610815.htm
June 15,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, The US Attorney’s Office, District of New Jersey is advising the public to be aware of a debt collection email and telephone scam in which individuals posing as law enforcement agents or government officials attempt to collect non-existent “debts”. Victims who receive these emails and telephone calls have been threatened with incarceration if funds are not wired and debts are not collected.
Victims have reported receiving emails and phone calls purporting to be from the U.S. Attorney’s Office directing them to contact a “Justice Department Officer” to arrange payment of their fine or debt. The callers have sometimes had sensitive identifying information, including social security numbers, of the victims they were calling. The U.S. Attorney’s Office reminds the public that law enforcement agents and government officers do not threaten to arrest or prosecute people for unpaid debts or fines, and do not communicate in this manner via email or telephone. A real employee of the U.S. Attorney’s Office would never contact you by phone or email to demand payment of a debt.
If you receive a phone call or email from someone purporting to be a representative of the U.S. Attorney’s Office asking for money, please report the call or email to the U.S. Attorney’s Office (973) 645-2700, or local law enforcement officials. In addition, please be cautious about providing any personal information (names, addresses, dates of birth, Social Security Numbers) to anyone who calls or emails you because it could result in identity theft.
In 2006 bees started disappearing. Beekeepers reported to losing up to 90% of their beehives. And no one knew why. Nearly every news outlet raised the alarm, warning of an imminent beepocalypse that would devastate our food supply. But while alarm bells rang, things turned around. And bee colonies are now at a 20 year high. How did we get the beepocalypse so… wrong?
file photo by Boyd Loving
June 14,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Connecticut has the third-worst credit rating in the country, and its deficit has reached nearly $5 billion. According to a 2017 estimate by the Pew Charitable Trusts, the Nutmeg State only has $240 million in its ‘rainy day fund’—only five states have a smaller cushion.
Connecticut like New Jersey has hemorrhaged corporations under two-term Democratic Gov. Dannel Malloy, who announced he would not seek re-election this November. Insurance giant Aetna, which was based in the state’s capital since 1853, moved in January to New York City. And General Electric left its headquarters in Fairfield in 2016 after more than 40 years.
