Tag: Village of Ridgewood

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Fall Ridgewood Recreation Programs and Classes

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FALL SESSION II PROGRAMS WITH RIDGEWOOD RECREATION – SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!

Registration is underway for Fall Session II programs to begin in November.

Preschool

My First Art with Abrakadoodle – caregivers join as little ones enjoy “firsts” – touching, feeling, hearing, seeing, and thinking while painting, drawing, sculpting, enjoying storybooks, art games and music. Ages 20-42 months. Tuesday mornings at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. $110/6 classes, includes all materials.

Mini Doodler with Abrakadoodle – a fun journey with new lessons that inspire creativity to help little ones foster a love of art. Ages 3-5. Wednesday afternoons at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. $110/6 classes, includes all materials.

Elementary

Garden Arts for Kids – a magical mixture of nature and eco-art with lessons on animals, gardening and recycling. Ages 4-7. Monday afternoons at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. $110/6 classes, all materials provided.

Creative Cooking Holiday Fun with Education Explorers – Junior chefs learn the basics of cooking in this resourceful class; how to follow a recipe, mix, measure, and decorate with a variety of techniques and tools. Grades K-4. Mondays after school at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. $120/6 classes, includes all materials.

Drawing and/or Acrylics with Mrs. C – both offer art instruction to meet personal goals and approaches at individual levels. Grades 2-6. Acrylics is offered on Tuesdays after school and Drawing on Wednesdays after school. Both are located at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. Acrylics – $65/6 classes, Drawing – $55/5 classes. Students are to bring materials.

Super Science Mash Up #2 with Explore Science – Enjoy challenges in ALL realms of science with hands-on experiments and creations. Experiments include making your own lava lamp, working with color chemistry, making an ultimate puff mobile, making playdough, designing basic electrical circuitry and designing a bubble hat to take home. Grades K-5. Tuesdays after school at the Stable. $120/6 classes, includes all materials.

The Age of Dinosaurs with Education Explorers – Children will learn what it was like when dinosaurs owned the earth, 200 to 144 million years ago. Exciting and fun hands-on projects each week. Grades K-4. Wednesdays after school at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. $105/5 classes, includes all materials.

Crayola-la Model Magic Mania with Abrakadoodle – Participants will enjoy this art lover’s dream exploring all the wonderful products Crayola has to offer to make fabulous mixed media. Clay rules for sculpting while incorporating watercolor paints, tempera paints, oil pastels and more. Grades K-3. Thursdays after school at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. $100/5 classes, includes all materials.

Green Kids Spring Workshops **Starts October 14th** – for those who wish to explore and discover nature, gardening, science, art, birding, ecology, the environment and our senses. Grades 3-5. Wednesdays after school at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. Topics include Nature Sculptures, Homes for Feathered Friends, Homemade Troughs, Giving Thanks (community service project), and a trip to Lorrimer Sanctuary, Franklin Lakes. $50/5 workshops, all materials included. Sponsored in part by the Women Gardeners of Ridgewood.

Adults

Watercolors with Maryann Burton – Beginner and intermediate instruction for adults on Wednesday mornings at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. $95/6 classes. Students must bring own materials.

Acrylics with Sandi Chanoch – Individual and personalized attention helps all find their personal techniques. Tuesday afternoons at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. Students must bring own materials. $80/6 classes.

Annie’s Artisanal Cookery – Holiday Hors D’Oeuvres Impress your friends with easy to make Holiday hors d’oeuvres that can be made in advance. All you need to do is reheat when needed and serve. Friday afternoons at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. $90/4 sessions, all ingredients provided.

________________________________________

Please visit the Recreation homepage at www.ridgewoodnj.net/recreation for more details and to download the registration forms for in-person/by mail signups to the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue, Ridgewood 07450. Online registration through Community Pass is available for programs (unless otherwise noted) at www.ridgwoodnj.net/communitypass.

Don’t hesitate to call the Recreation Office at 201-670-5560 for more information of if special accommodations are needed. Non-residents may register if space allows; an additional $10 fee will apply.

New program suggestions are always welcome! Please be sure to bookmark the Recreation homepage on your computer for easy access to updated program and special event information.

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Ridgewood Open Houses for November 8th 2015

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file photo Boyd Loving

$429,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1537588
624 Linwood Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath, Col
Jane Certo, Broker Associate
Tarvin Realtors
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. Sun. 11/8
25

$499,900 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1540594
329 Northern Pkwy, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath, Ranch
Carolyn Strittmatter, Sales Associate
Weichert Realtors Ridgewood
Open House: 12:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
14

$515,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1523480
482 Northern Pkwy, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 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. 11/8
21

$545,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1519576
415 E Saddle River Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath, Col
Denise Bizet, Sales Associate
Terrie O’Connor Realtors-Ridgewood
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
24

$550,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1534639
116 Lake Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath, Col
Elizabeth Novak, Sales Associate
Weichert Realtors Ridgewood
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
19

$575,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1534268
370 Kensington Dr, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Janet Golfo, Sales Associate
Coldwell Banker, Ridgewood
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
23

$589,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1524453
278 Cedarcroft Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath,
2 Half Bath, S/L
Denise Jarrett, Sales Associate
Prominent Properties Sotheby’s International Realty-Ridgewood
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
16

$599,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1530460
328 Marshall St, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Anne Marangi, Sales Associate
Terrie O’Connor Realtors-UpSdRv
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
24

$639,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1540480
1102 E Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath, Col
Laurie Catizone-Jordan, Sales Associate
Keller Williams Village Square Realty
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
24

$649,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1535930
456 E Saddle River Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Ranch
Thomas Panso, Sales Associate
Keller Williams Valley Realty
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
– See more at: https://www.njmls.com/NJ/BERGEN/RIDGEWOOD-open-houses#sthash.D1QAWIjf.XNTTOdCG.dpuf

$649,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1537519
512 E Saddle River Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath, S/L
William F. Gilsenan Jr, Broker
Gilsenan & Co.
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
23

$649,500 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1538028
286 S Maple Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Joan Marie Monton, Broker Associate
Coldwell Banker, Ridgewood
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
25

$739,900 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1540647
292 Spring Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Twnhs
Michelle Stojanovic, Sales Associate
Tarvin Realtors
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. Sun. 11/8
25

$749,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1536927
676 Kingsbridge Ln, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Ranch
Susy Shin, Sales Associate
Realty 7, LLC
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/22
25

$759,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1533214
395 Hamilton Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath, S/L
Oksoon Yang, Sales Associate
Weichert Realtors Ridgewood
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
23

$792,500 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1542277
619 Frederick St, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 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. 11/8
18

$799,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1538412
524 E Saddle River Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Paul Lagano, Sales Associate
Weichert Realtors Ridgewood
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
25

$829,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1543786
520 Hillcrest Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Maureen Mole, Sales Associate
RE/MAX Properties-Saddle River
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
25

$989,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1544331
259 Highwood Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Qizhan Yao, Broker Owner
Realmart Realty, LLC
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
6

$1,375,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1521212
51 N Hillside Pl, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 4 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. 11/8
25
– See more at: https://www.njmls.com/NJ/BERGEN/RIDGEWOOD-open-houses#sthash.D1QAWIjf.XNTTOdCG.dpuf

$1,395,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1536607
5 Paul Ct, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Frances Ekblom, Sales Associate
Tarvin Realtors
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. Sun. 11/8
25

$1,525,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1543846
123 Woodland Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
2 Half Bath, Col
Jennifer M. Parsekian, Broker
Keller Williams Village Square Realty
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
25

$1,550,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1533078
371 Crest Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Samira Cook, Sales Associate
Coldwell Banker, Ridgewood
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
25

$2,495,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1524194
296 Manor Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
6 Bedroom, 7 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Dennis Jaye, Broker Associate
RE/MAX Real Estate Limited
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
– See more at: https://www.njmls.com/NJ/BERGEN/RIDGEWOOD-open-houses#sthash.D1QAWIjf.XNTTOdCG.dpuf

 

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Village of Ridgewood : Leaf Collection Schedule Including dates for leaves to be placed in the street

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Leaf Collection Schedule Including dates for leaves to be placed in the street

IMPORTANT UPDATE ON LEAF COLLECTION DATES

This past week we have stepped up our enforcement efforts for leaf removal. As a result warning letters were issued to those homes which had leaves out not within the timeframe provided or too close to a storm drain. There seems to be some confusion as to when leaves are to be placed in the street. A clarification of the dates is as follows:

AREA A

Collection Date – Nov. 5 – 10 (Leaves MUST be placed in the street between Oct. 29 through Nov. 5)

Collection Date – Nov. 30 – Dec. 3 (Leaves MUST be placed in the street between Nov. 23 through Nov. 30)

AREA B

Collection Date – Nov. 9 – 13 (Leaves MUST be placed in the street between Nov. 2 through Nov. 9)

Collection Date Nov. 30 – Dec. 4 (Leaves MUST be placed in street between Nov. 23 through Nov. 30)

Collection Date – Dec. 14 – 18 (Leaves MUST be placed in street between Dec. 7 through Dec. 14)

AREA C

Collection Date – Nov. 12 – 18 (Leaves MUST be placed in street between Nov. 5 through Nov. 12)

Collection Date – Dec. 7-11 (Leaves MUST be placed in street between Dec. 1 through Dec. 7)

AREA D

Collection Date – Nov. 19 – 25 (Leaves MUST be placed in street between Nov. 12 through Nov. 19)

Collection Date – Dec. 14 – 18 (Leaves MUST be placed in street between Dec. 7 through Dec. 14)

With the heavy leaf drop upon us it is important that you have leaves out by the FIRST DATE of your scheduled pick-up. Leaves WILL NOT be picked up on all dates shown for pick up but rather during that timeframe. Your leaves will only be picked up ONCE during that timeframe. We will not go back to your street until your next scheduled day once we have picked up your leaves.

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In case you were looking for an excuse…Don’t rake your leaves, scientists say

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photo by Artchick https://artchickphotography.com/

USA TODAY NETWORKDan Cassuto, KING
9:32 a.m. EST November 19, 2014

SEATTLE, Wash. — Here’s an excuse to use the next time someone asks you to rake the leaves: Science.

The National Wildlife Federation is encouraging people to leave the leaves.

On its website, the NWF says dry, dead leaves are important habitats for all kinds of critters, reports KING.

Butterflies, salamanders, chipmunks, box turtles, toads, shrews, earthworms, and other creatures live, lay eggs in or eat from leaves, according to NWF’s plea with the public to let the leaves stay where gravity left them.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2014/11/19/do-not-rake-your-leaves/19266079/

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Village of Ridgewood Leaf Removal Schedule

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2015 LEAF PICK UP SCHEDULE – ENFORCEMENT OF SCHEDULE

NOTICE CONCERNING LEAF REMOVAL FOR 2015

Last year the Village of Ridgewood implemented a pilot program to outsource a portion of our leaf removal service. After reviewing and evaluating input that was provided by you regarding the success of this change, we again will be using the services of a third party contractor in Area B. The combined effort of the Village staff and this contractor will enforce our continuing commitment to improve your Village services.

In accordance with last years’ schedule, residents in Area B will remain the same with the exception of the following streets which will now be considered “Area D” for leaf season only.

Beechwood Rd. Unadilla Rd.

Carlton Terr. Valley View Ave.

Elm Ct. Waiku Rd.

Kemah Rd. Wastena Terr.

N. Monroe St. (house #108 – 412) Windsor Terr.

Palmer Ct. Woodland Ave. (house #116 – #223)

Sheridan Terr.

Area A

Oct. 19 – 22

Nov. 5 – 10

Nov. 30 – Dec. 3

Area B

Oct. 21 – 27

Nov. 9 – 13

Nov. 30 – Dec. 4

Dec. 14 – 18

Area C

Oct. 23 – 28

Nov. 12 – 18

Dec. 7 – 11

Area D

Oct. 29 – Nov. 4

Nov. 19 – 25

Dec. 14 – 18

Leaves must be placed directly in the street no more than 7 days prior to your scheduled pick up date. Please have your leaves in the street on the first day scheduled for collection. If you employ the services of a landscaper communicate these dates to them. No brush will be collected during leaf season. You may continue to bring leaves as well as brush to the Recycling Center. The hours of operation are Monday through Saturday, 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Leaves can also be placed in paper biodegradable bags. Bags will be available at the Recycling Center on a first come, first serve basis. When using bags please place them on the curb area and they will be collected separately.

The most vocal comment heard from residents last year was on properties who did not comply with the schedule. Therefore enforcement will be vital to the Village’s success to improve this service. An enforcement agent NOW ISSUING SUMMONS to those that violate these guidelines.

As weather is a key component to this operation, if changes become necessary it will be posted on the Village of Ridgewood website. In addition you are encouraged to sign up for e-mail notifications via the Village website and to share this information with your neighbors. As a reminder, use caution when our leaf removal crews are on your block. When possible please take an alternate route to ensure the safety of all. Should you have any questions, please call the Street Division at (201) 670-5585.

Our motto is – “Leave” no leaf behind!

Thank you for your continued cooperation.

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2015 Election Results – Village of Ridgewood

pro garage signs 2

2015 Election Results – Ridgewood

Member of General Assembly (2)

David C Russo – 1,837

Scott Rumana – 1,711

Paul Vagianos – 3,151

Christine Ordway – 3,020

Board of Freeholders (2) (Full Term)

John D Mitchell – 1,981

Kenneth P Tyburczy – 1,901

Steven A Tanelli – 2,429

Tracy Silnazur – 2,476

Richard A Siegel – 128

Board of Freeholders (1) (Unexpired Term)

Daisy Ortiz-Berger – 1,812

Thomas J Sullivan – 2,422

Peter J Rohrman – 166

Board of Education

Vincent Loncto – 2,068

Municipal Question #1 – Support Financing and Building of Parking Garage

Yes – 3,236

No – 1,777

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UPDATE :Village of Ridgewood : Hudson St. Parking Deck Forum Tonight 7:30 pm

parking garage cbd

Televised Parking Deck Information Session – Tonight- Nov 2 @ 7:30PM

Cablevision (Channel 77) and FIOS (Channel 34) will broadcast live tonight starting at 7:30PM the CBD Forum with details of the Hudson Street Parking Deck. If you cannot attend the meeting at Village Hall tonight, please tune in!

Ridgewood Information Forums – Hudson St. Parking Deck – November 2

Two important forums scheduled in Village Hall – 4th Floor Court Room – to discuss the proposed Hudson Street Parking Deck: Wednesday, October 21 and Monday, November 2 from 7:30pm to 9:30pm. Village professionals as well as the design team from Desman Associates will be on hand to discuss all aspects of the proposed parking deck, including the design and financials. All are welcome to attend. All questions are welcome!

 

Questions:

Official Parking Referendum Question

Community Support
President of the Chamber of Commerce statement

Financial Advisory Committee Statement

Historic Preservation Commission Statement

Study,Design, and Analysis

Walker Parking Preliminary Financial Analysis – October 2, 2015

Walker Parking Consultant Study – July 5th, 2015

Walker Parking Floor Plans

Resolutions

Resolution 15-222 : Non-Binding Referendum – Nov 3, 2015 Ballot

Resolution 15-303 : Desman, Inc.

Ordinances

Ordinance 3480

 

other commentary 

https://theridgewoodblog.net/vote-yes-vote-no-village-of-ridgewood-merchants-are-stuck-in-the-middle/

https://theridgewoodblog.net/bogus-historic-preservation-commission-endorsement-letter-jeopardizes-entire-parking-garage-approval-process/

https://theridgewoodblog.net/controversy-over-historic-preservation-commission-letter-on-village-website-grows/

https://theridgewoodblog.net/mysterious-anti-parking-garage-flier-appears-in-residents-mail-boxes/

https://theridgewoodblog.net/why-ill-just-say-no-to-the-parking-garage/

 

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Vote Yes ,Vote No Village of Ridgewood Merchants are stuck in the Middle

CBD
Novemeber 1,2015
the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood Nj , So the big vote is tomorrow and where as cynics would suggest residents will have the option to once again agree or disagree with a proposed project that will be jammed down their throats whether they like it or not . Not buying it ,take one look at Schedler Field ah Park or what every you call it .

A historic land slide loss for the RBSA backed candidate in the last Village Council election ,who’s sole purpose was to put a “turf field in every pot” has resulted in a you guessed a turf field for Schedler Field . So much for the electorate has spoken .
We decided to actually speak with some people in the Central Business District who actually make a living from their business in Ridgewood .
Several reminded us of promises past . That promise was that all the parking meter money would be used solely for the purpose of building a Village Parking facility . Yes this promise was made to justify the installation of parking meters in the Central Business District way back in the late 1960’s, yes we said 1960’s. Little did anyone know that change would leave the building mysteriously in 50 pound bags unnoticed by anyone . Too many old timers , the garage has been paid for  over and over.
The next issue many brought up was and we have seen this with our own eyes , that the metered spaces are all ready filled before 10 am . Funny but not many businesses are open that early . Some merchants felt that spaces are taken by commuters, CBD employees  and now the valet parking people . The valet parking is thought to provide parking for a select few while most merchants and their customers are left fighting over the few remaining spaces. The merchants we spoke with all felt the garage would go along way to alleviating those issues. Maybe the valet parking , or commuter parking can concentrate in the garage  while shoppers use street parking.
Another old issue that popped up was the so called $13 summons lawsuit that lost the CBD over 90 spaces, that my friends is a tale for another time .
Merchants on Oak Street complained about the the multiple valet parking issues leaving their customers with no place to go but to out of town locations. While others felt the rents due to taxes and fees ,triple net leases , left little wiggle room and the loss of a couple of sales a month would be the difference making it or closing up when the lease expires.
Yes most would agree there would be more traffic , but again take that up with the “traffic easing specialist ” in Village hall .There are just too many choke points in the Downtown already but if you want a vital and unique business district you need traffic .
Most didn’t mind the extension of metered parking hours giving dinners a chance to share in costs while merchants feel their customers are currently subsidizing the whole, but extended hours does not mean anyone was a fan of higher parking fees .
We asked many about cost over runs , and the answer was vintage entrepreneur; create a community over site board of all those who oppose the garage idea  and have then audit the construction process and make sure the quarters end up in the right hands .
Many of the merchants clearly understood the public’s reluctance to finance the garage and said the Village had lost all credibility since the Village Hall fiasco , pursuing one foolish folly after another and not being up front with taxpayers .  We all know there is going to be more traffic , stop the lying and lets prepare for it. We all know Ridgewood water is woefully un prepared stop lying and lets fix it . We all know if we build in the CBD more kids will attend the schools  stop the denials and lets deal with it . We all know Valley needs to update, time for a realistic plan not fantasy monstrosities. Leave tito’s alone , focus on building the business downtown not wrecking it. We got the feeling like most of the regular readers for this blog ,that some vision and leadership is sorely needed.
While we could not help feel a sense of doom hanging over the downtown , it seems for too long the Village has taken the CBD for granted and the Chamber of Commerce has played footsie with the Village council .  New Jersey is not exactly a business friendly environment, so the Village needs to decide  whether it wants a unique vital down town  or not . The parking garage is not a panacea but in combination with proper vision and a little planning the downtown could play a significant roll in the Villages future.

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Village of Ridgewood Public Hearing on Habernickel Park , November 4, 2015

Habernickel Park Gate House

Public Hearing – Habernickel Park – November 4, 2015

VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Village Council of the Village of Ridgewood will hold a Public Hearing on November 4, 2015 at a Special Public Meeting, during their regularly scheduled Work Session, which begins at 7:30 P.M. in the Ridgewood Village Hall, 131 North Maple Avenue, Ridgewood, New Jersey for public comment on the following:

Changing the use of the house at 1057 Hillcrest Road, Block 1103, Lot 16.01, Ridgewood, NJ, located in the Irene Habernickel Family Park from a residential lease to an educational and recreational programing lease.

A public hearing is required pursuant to NJDEP Green Acres Rules N.J.A.C. 7:36-25-6 et. seq. for a change in purpose or use of funded or unfunded parkland.

Documents relating to the proposed development are available for examination by the public at the Village Manager’s Office of the Ridgewood Village Hall, 131 North Maple Avenue, Ridgewood, NJ, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Oral comments and testimony will be heard at the public hearing. Written comments may be submitted before the date of the hearing or within two weeks from the date of the public hearing.

Written comments or inquiries should be directed to Nancy Lawrence, NJDEP Green Acres Program, Bureau of Legal Services & Stewardship, Mail Code 501-01, P.O. Box 420, Trenton, NJ 08625-0420 and Janet Fricke, Assistant to the Village Manager, Ridgewood Village Hall, 131 North Maple Avenue, Ridgewood, NJ 07451 or by telephone at (201) 670-5500, Extension 204 or by email to: [email protected].

Heather A. Mailander

Village Clerk

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Village of Ridgewood : “No Leaf Left Behind” initiative and changes to the leaf pick-up process

leaf3 pickup theridgewoodblog.net 12

file photo by Boyd Loving

Dear Resident,

I am writing to speak with you about our early experiences this leaf season.

As you know last year we introduced the “No Leaf Left Behind” initiative and introduced changes to the leaf pick-up process.  This year, we held our second leaf summit with all of our staff engaged in the leaf process to review post-mortem results from last year as well as to think through new enhancements to the processing of leaves.  For example, we are introducing a new piece of equipment to our tool box, a claw, that we think will add value.  If we see a significant improvement we will buy another claw for next year.  We also rebid the leaf removal process for Section B – we have a new contractor this year based on lowest bid requirements.

Importantly, we heard you last year about the need for strict enforcement of the leaf schedule, particularly the issue that some residents and/or their contractors were placing their leaves in the street right after a collection cycle thereby causing many leaves left on the streets for weeks.  In our recent letter that was mailed to all residents with the leaf schedule, we also indicated that we would strictly enforce the leaf schedule and that summonses would be issued.  Unfortunately I can report to you that we did compliance monitoring on various streets within Area A after leaf pick up was concluded on October 22nd and we had a very large number of violators.  Over two days, we had over 40 summonses to be written – this was also a limited review…. we could have documented many more and this is not acceptable for our community.

I want to explain to you why I decided not to issue summonses in these cases –  instead we are issuing warnings.  It turns out that violating the leaf ordinance, even the first time, requires a court appearance by the resident; fines begin at $50.  It was this court appearance that resulted in the decision that warnings would be issued for the first week of leaf collection in each Leaf Area.  Summonses will begin the second week in each Area. Please remember that the homeowner is responsible for his/her landscaper.  We have been in contact with registered landscapers and shared the schedule with them as part of our communications strategy.

A couple of other points to share with you.  First, we did get a bit of an early start in Area A this year which caused some confusion for residents.  Our intent was always to loop back to those streets that we started early but I apologize for any confusion that this may have caused.  Secondly, as we did last year we will add collection dates to the schedule if they are needed.  Since the leaves seem to be falling slowly this year, I anticipate that this will be the case.  Please check our website (www.ridgewoodnj.net) for updates, and I will send E-Notices when needed.

Our staff is reminding all residents to not place recycling barrels or basketball hoops in the roadway during leaf collection as these objects cause a safety issue and unnecessary maneuvering of our vehicles. Additionally, leaf piles in the street cause potentially dangerous conditions by narrowing the street for vehicles, so residents should avoid parking close to leaf piles or driving over them.

Effective collection of leaves is an effort that requires the Village and its residents to be collaborative and mutually supportive.  As a result, I would like to request again that you let us know how we can perform better and be more sensitive to your requirements. We are breaking in a new contractor as well as new equipment and we will closely monitor this but you are our eyes and ears and therefore we are reliant on you to help make this process more effective.

Today the leaves are not quite brown but the skies are grey – Ridgewood dreamin’ on such a Autumn’s day……

Best,

Roberta Sonenfeld
Village Manager
201-670-5500, ext. 203

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Village of Ridgewood 2015 Leaf Pick Up Schedule , “Leave” no leaf behind!

leaves2_theridgewoodblog

2015 LEAF PICK UP SCHEDULE – ENFORCEMENT OF SCHEDULE

NOTICE CONCERNING LEAF REMOVAL FOR 2015

Last year the Village of Ridgewood implemented a pilot program to outsource a portion of our leaf removal service. After reviewing and evaluating input that was provided by you regarding the success of this change, we again will be using the services of a third party contractor in Area B. The combined effort of the Village staff and this contractor will enforce our continuing commitment to improve your Village services.

In accordance with last years’ schedule, residents in Area B will remain the same with the exception of the following streets which will now be considered “Area D” for leaf season only.

Beechwood Rd. Unadilla Rd.

Carlton Terr. Valley View Ave.

Elm Ct. Waiku Rd.

Kemah Rd. Wastena Terr.

N. Monroe St. (house #108 – 412) Windsor Terr.

Palmer Ct. Woodland Ave. (house #116 – #223)

Sheridan Terr.

2015 DATES for collection are as follows:

Area A Area B Area C Area D

Oct. 19 – 22 Oct. 21 – 27 Oct. 23 – 28 Oct. 29 – Nov. 4

Nov. 5 – 10 Nov. 9 – 13 Nov. 12 – 18 Nov. 19 – 25

Nov. 30 – Dec. 3 Nov. 30 – Dec. 4 Dec. 7 – 11 Dec. 14 – 18

Dec. 14 – 18

Leaves must be placed directly in the street no more than 7 days prior to your scheduled pick up date. Please have your leaves in the street on the first day scheduled for collection. If you employ the services of a landscaper communicate these dates to them. No brush will be collected during leaf season. You may continue to bring leaves as well as brush to the Recycling Center. The hours of operation are Monday through Saturday, 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Leaves can also be placed in paper biodegradable bags. Bags will be available at the Recycling Center on a first come, first serve basis. When using bags please place them on the curb area and they will be collected separately.

The most vocal comment heard from residents last year was on properties who did not comply with the schedule. Therefore enforcement will be vital to the Village’s success to improve this service. An enforcement agent NOW ISSUING SUMMONS to those that violate these guidelines.

As weather is a key component to this operation, if changes become necessary it will be posted on the Village of Ridgewood website. In addition you are encouraged to sign up for e-mail notifications via the Village website and to share this information with your neighbors. As a reminder, use caution when our leaf removal crews are on your block. When possible please take an alternate route to ensure the safety of all. Should you have any questions, please call the Street Division at (201) 670-5585.

Our motto is – “Leave” no leaf behind!

Thank you for your continued cooperation.

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The November 3rd election is just two weeks away. That means our campaign to build a downtown parking deck is entering its final stretch.

paul Aronsohn

file photo by Boyd Loving

From: Paul Aronsohn <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 19, 2015 10:37 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Parking Campaign — Three Things

Dear Neighbor –

The November 3rd  election is just two weeks away.  That means our campaign to build a downtown parking deck is entering its final stretch.

To generate both education and excitement … I recommend the following three things:

Parking Forum:  This Wednesday (10/21), we will be holding an interactive forum to discuss the proposed parking deck.  Meet and talk with representatives of our design firm, Desman.  Meet and talk with Village CFO / Parking Utility Director Bob Rooney.  Ask questions.  Get answers.  Village Hall 4th floor Council Chamber at7:30pm.  Please join us.  Everyone is welcome.

Questions & Answers:  Attached is a two-pager that addresses questions that have been asked of me.  I hope you find it useful.

Draft Parking Deck Rendering:  Attached is a draft rendering of a Hudson Street Parking Deck.  It’s a work in progress that reflects input from several people, including members of the Historic Preservation Commission.  Take a look.   Share your thoughts.   Your input is wanted.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Hope to see you on Wednesday.

Thanks,

Paul

Paul Aronsohn, Mayor
Village of Ridgewood
@paularonsohn

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Village of Ridgewood : How Hate Speech Laws Work In Practice

FREE SPEECH NOT

An instructive example out of Kenya (and a few from our own backyard).

Elizabeth Nolan Brown|Oct. 20, 2015 8:00 am

One of the most baffling things about the newfangled “liberal” push for laws against so-called hate speech is their inability to imagine these bans backfiring. In their zeal to punish those who spread sexist, racist, transphobic, or otherwise out-of-fashion speech, they seem to forget that history has a bad track record of using censorship to suppress religious, social, sexual, and political minorities. And that’s exactly what’s been happening in Kenya, according to Nairobi-based newspaper The Star.

“There is growing evidence that the government is using prosecution for hate speech as a tool to silence its opposition critics,” writes John Onyando. “The norm is incendiary speech by pro-government politicians and online activists going unchecked while law enforcement agencies enthusiastically pounce on the mildest expressions by critics.”

The agency tasked with prosecuting hate speech in Kenya is called the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC); it was formed in 2008 to address ethnic conflicts in the nation. Onyando asserts that NCIC has ignored the bulk of complaints it has received and acts “more like an arm of the ruling coalition” than an independent agency, honing in only on those who speak out against the Jubilee Alliance, a coalition established in 2013 to support the candidacy of current President Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy President William Ruto.

https://reason.com/blog/2015/10/20/how-hate-speech-laws-work-in-practice

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Village of Ridgewood November School Recess – Special Events

the stable gallery

Special Events with Ridgewood Recreation

November School Recess

BOSSY FROG MUSICAL SHOW – Thursday, November 5th, 11 a.m. at the Anne Zusy Youth Center, Village Hall, 131 North Maple Avenue, Ridgewood. PreK/Early elementary. Young ones are sure to enjoy this fun and interactive musical show. Tickets are $5 for all attending (under 2 free).

“HIBERNATE, MIGRATE OR ACCLIMATE”, presented by NJ Audubon – Friday, November 6th, 11 a.m., at the Anne Zusy Youth Center, Village Hall, 131 N. Maple Avenue, Ridgewood. Grades 1 – 5. Learn how plants, birds, insects and animals of New Jersey survive the winter months. Tickets are $5 for all attending.

KNEX ROBOTICS WITH EXPLORE SCIENCE – Thursday, November 5th, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., at The Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue, Ridgewood. Grades K – 5. Participants will build and bring home the ROBOT SMASH motorized robot that hops along like a primate. This interactive enrichment program encourages skill building in critical thinking; including communication, collaboration, persistence and problem solving. $40 participant fee ($50 non-residents if space allows). All materials will be included.

INCREDIFLIX ANIMATION WORKSHOP – Thursday and Friday, November 5 and 6, 1:30 to 4 p.m. each day, at The Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue, Ridgewood. Grades 2 – 6. IncrediFlix Animation Flix Workshop focus on expanding imagination and creativity with hands-on activities. Participants will learn different styles of stop-motion animation, direct, film and do voice-overs in this ultimate arts and craft camp. A new style of animation each day! Their flix production will be edited and available for download soon after camp. Participant fee is $95 which includes all materials ($105 non-residents if space allows).

Purchase of tickets for the shows or registration for the program offerings may be made either online at Community Pass, www.ridgewoodnj.net/communitypass or in person at The Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue, Ridgewood, NJ 07450, weekdays 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For additional information, or if special accommodations are needed, kindly contact the Recreation office at 201-670-5560.

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Readers agree the Civility Assault by the Council Majority is nothing but a bullying tactic

Al day job

Wow – great post. The “civility” assault, as the poster mentions, either shuts the potential dissenter up completely, or spins him/her up into a fury at the sheer chutzpah it takes to engage in such hypocrisy. Both reactions suit the purposes of the “civility” advocator, the first because it squelches dissent, the second because it allows the person who reacts with frustration to be singled out and portrayed as an angry rabble-rouser unfit to be listened to in the first instance. Meanwhile those of us who try the cool and calm approach tend to fade into the woodwork. Come to think if it, this is also favorable from the standpoint of the “civility” advocator. Killing three dissenting birds with one rhetorical stone–pretty impressive. Who the hell comes up with this stuff (cough, cough…Alinsky…)?

What about Albert stating that he was the only one with a full time job? The old “I’m more important than you are” bullying tactic. And then there is Gwenn reprimanding the audience for laughing or clapping – sorry folks, no emotions can be displayed, not humor, not happiness. Never In these meetings have I hear a booing from the crowd – it has always been positive assent in the form of applause or humorous laughter. Pretty civil as far as I can see it, and yet Miss Prim and Proper reprimands the group.

How about the Mike Sedon email affair? The three of them did NOTHING AT ALL until they were pushed and pressured to do so by a member of the public. Then, under great duress, Aronsohn sent the weakest most anemic email to the editor of the Staten Island Advance asking about the email that had been sent over a year prior. Of course the SI Advance editor said sorry, he no longer has the email. The three of them should have stood up from the very beginning in complete and total outrage against this blatant attempt to interfere with our election system. But, there was nothing from them. It was as if they could not care at all. We know, yes we KNOW that the email was sent by someone who really really REALLY did not want Mike Sedon to run for office. This was the most outrageous bullying episode yet to date, worse than any name calling. Even if on the remote chance that Aronsohn-Pucciarelli-or-Hauck did not send the letter, they should have been strong and determined to get to the bottom of that mess. But, bullies do not give a good god-damn who they hurt along the way, as long as they get their way. How in the world do they sleep at night?

I could not agree with this post more. They are attempting to tackle major issues that will FOREVER change our town. Regardless of where you stand on each issue (Schedler, parking garage, multi-family housing, sr. assisted living facility) they each deserve a full and detailed public hearing similar to what happened with Valley. Each one should have all the experts testify and be open to council and public questions during normal meeting hours. By trying to fit everything into one meeting that lasts into the early morning hours they are daring citizens into an episode of Survivor just to stay informed. This is a shameful practice that needs to be stopped.

Some will argue that we need to move forward and not have prolonged hearings. I think a fully informed public and full vetting of the issues so we can make the CORRECT decisions are more important than making A decision quickly.