The Ridgewood Blog Brings a Free Market Laissez-faire Point of View to Local, New Jersey State and National Issues.
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, looking for a way to help your neighbors this summer? Participate in the Ridgewood Food Drive, organized by the Run for Hope Foundation and the Ridgewood YMCA, to combat food insecurity in our community. The drive will run from Sunday, June 23 to Sunday, June 30.
Continue reading Join the Ridgewood Food Drive to Combat Food Insecurity!
the staff of The Ridgewood Blog
Ridgewood NJ, Several IT savvy readers of The Ridgewood Blog contacted us late Wednesday afternoon to report that the “Destination Ridgewood” website (https://destination.ridgewoodnj.net/), which was developed to highlight and promote The Ridgewood YMCA’s Pedestrian Plaza related activities and events, is being hosted by Cablevision New Jersey/Optimum, at the same IP address (24.38.3.74) as the official Village of Ridgewood website (https://www.ridgewoodnj.net/).
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Hackensack NJ, the Greater Bergen County YMCA, a branch of the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges located at 360 Main St. in Hackensack, is under contract for sale with a development partner. While the Y will be relocating many of its programs and services effective March 31, 2022, it will continue to operate its School Age Child Care programs in Hackensack schools.
Continue reading The YMCA will be leaving its Main Street Location in Hackensack after 90 years
photo courtesy of the Ridgewood police Department
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Continue reading Quick Action by Ridgewood Police Officers and Bystanders Save a Life
LAST WEEKEND! DECEMBER 21, 22, 23
Friday 5:30-8pm
Saturday 9am-8pm
Sunday 10am-5pm
ALL PRICES REDUCED
5ft trees SALE at $45
7-8ft trees SALE AT 65
12″ DECORATED WREATH $15 PLUS MUCH MORE
See you there.
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Members are invited to join us for Coffee and Conversation with our CEO Ernest Lamour on Thursday October 11 from 9:30-10:30AM!
You’re invited to join the Y team for coffee and a light breakfast in our conference room and to share your ideas on the future vision of the Ridgewood Y!
We will have a second Coffee & Conversation on Thursday, October 25 at 7 -8:30pm for the convenience of people who may wish to attend an evening session. Refreshments will be served!
We look forward to a collaborative open discussion with our members to keep our Y moving forward into the future!
Join us as we discuss the vision & future of the Y
October 11 – 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM or
October 25 – 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Conference Room
ymca job fair
Wed, January 31, 2018
Time: 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Ridgewood YMCA, 112 Oak St., Ridgewood, NJ 07450
JOB FAIR BE A PART OF SOMETHING GREAT!
Wednesday, January 31
Here at the Y, we’re focused on nurturing the potential of every child, improving the nation’s health and well-being and providing support to our neighbors. By joining our team you’ll be inspired to make a difference every day… in a job that matters.
GROUP FITNESS INSTRUCTORS
Inspire others. Get people moving. Join our team.
We’re in search of enthusiastic, energetic instructors to join our team. Current Group Exercise, CPR/AED and at least 2 MOSSA Certifications (if you don’t have MOSSA certs, but have Les Mills, we can transition you) required, along with the ability to teach at least 2 MOSSA classes per week. Varied hours available. If interested, please email your resume to: kostarticki@ridgewoodymca.org.
Cooking instructor
Teaching basic cooking classes to children ages 3-12 in a safe learning environment, the ideal candidate must be at least 18 years of age with a HS diploma or equivalent, prior cooking knowledge and experience teaching children. Interested candidates should submit a resume to: mburke@ridgewoodymca.org
s.t.e.m. instructor
Teaching basic STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) classes to children ages 3-12 in a safe learning environment, the ideal candidate must be at least 16 years old with prior experience working with children and a demonstrated understanding of various topics in S.T.E.M. Interested candidates should submit a resume to:
mburke@ridgewoodymca.org
youth sports instructor
Teaching a variety of sports classes to children ages 3-12 in a safe environment, which will include running drills & playing fun games, the ideal candidate must be at least 16 years old with a sports background and prior experience working with children. Interested candidates should send a resume to: mburke@ridgewoodymca.org.
PARTY HOST
As one of our Party Hosts, you’ll be in charge in running one of our themed birthday parties. In this fun role, you’ll set up the parties, run activities, help serve food and then help clean up afterwards. Parties run on Saturdays and Sundays for 3 hours in the afternoon. Must be at least 18 years of age with a HS diploma or equivalent. If interested, please email your resume to: mburke@ridgewoodymca.org.
KIDS NIGHT OUT STAFF
One Friday night per month, from 6pm-10pm, the Ridgewood YMCA hosts a Kids Night Out, which gives parents the opportunity to enjoy an evening out while we entertain the kids! You’ll help host activities and supervise children ages 6-10. Must be at least 18 years of age with a HS diploma or equivalent and some prior experience working with children. If interested, please email your resume to: mburke@ridgewoodymca.org.
TENNIS INSTRUCTOR
Do you want to share your skills with the future tennis stars of tomorrow? We’re seeking an instructor to teach on Monday afternoons. Must enjoy working with children and able to sub for some Saturday morning classes. Must be at least 18 years of age with a HS diploma or equivalent and some prior tennis experience. Salary is $15/hr. If interested, please email your resume to: mburke@ridgewoodymca.org.
VACATION CAMP COUNSELORS
Love working with kids? Then consider working with us at our 2017 Vacation Day Camp. We’re seeking caring individuals to work 9am-5pm when children in grades K-8 are off from school during public school breaks. You’ll help children enjoy daily recreational and educational activities such as swimming, arts & crafts, and fun theme days! Must be at least 16 years of age. Please send resume to: mburke@ridgewoodymca.org.
AQUA EXERCISE INSTRUCTORS
We’re seeking upbeat, motivated individuals to teach aqua exercise. Must be at least 18 years of age. CPR/AED Certification required; Aqua Exercise Certification preferred, but will train; and Group Exercise Certification a plus. Please email your resume to: kostarticki@ridgewoodymca.org.
LIFEGUARDS
Immediate opening for mornings and afternoons. Must have current CPR/AED/First Aid/Lifeguarding certification. Must be at least 16 years of age, but will consider a mature 15 year old with proper certifications. Competitive salary. Please email your resume to: bkoch@ridgewoodymca.org.
SWIM INSTRUCTORS
Immediate opening for weekday mornings and afternoons. Must be at least 16 years of age with strong swimming skills and prior experience. Competitive salary. Please email your resume to: bkoch@ridgewoodymca.org.
Call 201-444-5600
halloween at the y
Tue, October 31, 2017
Time: 11:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Location: Ridgewood YMCA, 112 Oak St., Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Please join us on Tuesday, October 31 to celebrate Halloween in a fun and safe environment at the Y! Parents must accompany their children.
• Two trick or treat sessions will be offered to accommodate toddlers and school age youth.
• Trick or Treat from 11:30 am till 12:30 pm and 3:30 pm till 4:30 pm.
PLUS
• Vote for the most creatively decorated staff member’s office door!
• Join us for arts and crafts and a Halloween themed science project in the building’s lobby from 12:30 till 3:30 pm.
• Peanut-free event
• Open to the public, bring your friends and neighbors
November 9 & 10
October 29,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Many schools are closed for NJEA Convention on Thursday & Friday, November 9-10. The Ridgewood Y offers our November Pamacka camp to help parents with child care for days when schools are closed. Extended hours are available for pre-camp and post-camp hours, at no extra charge!
$60 per child per day for YMCA members
$75 per child per day for non-members
Join us this November at Camp Pamacka with
exciting themed activities planned.
Bring your bathing suit for swim time, lunch, sneakers and a jacket!
Activities Planned
• Themes are Fall Frenzy for Nov. 9 and Turkey Bowl 1 for Nov. 10
• Swimming
• Arts and crafts
• Friday’s are pizza day!
Call to register at 201.444.5600 x500
Upcoming Camp Pamacka School Vacation Camps:
December Pamacka – December 26-29
October 28,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Making STEM fun and easy for kids ages 3-5 years! Build a boat and test to see if it floats or sinks using pennies as weights!
Enrichment classes at the Y are a wonderful way for your child to express themselves, develop new interests and have fun!
S.T.E.A.M.ING INTO S.T.E.M. (1): 3-5 YEARS
SUNDAYS, 1:15 PM
Your child will love exploring with us as we learn about science, technology, engineering, and math. Each week participants will tackle a new topic as the build, create, and explore.
CREATIVE COOKS: 6-10 YEARS
SUNDAYS, 1:15 PM
Learn to chop, mix, and create some healthy meals to share with your family.
Each week participants will create a new menu of food choices.
FOR MORE INFORMATION Ridgewood YMCA 201-444-5600.
Since 1968, Citizens for Swimming has hosted summer day campers from Paterson for 9 days of swim lessons and fun in the water.
2017 will be our 50th year at the pool!
Ridgewood NJ, The children we host have little access to swimming. C4S provides them with a few weeks respite from the summer heat, and swimming lessons that build water safety skills. Swimming is not just fun in the sun, it is a practical skill that many of these kids have limited access to. African American children ages 5-19 drown at rates more than 5 times higher than their white counterparts. YMCA swim instructors provide Citizens for Swimming kids with skills and experiences that will serve them for a lifetime.
We spend $110 per child for our 9-day swim program. This includes bus transportation to and from Paterson (by far our biggest expense), discounted Graydon Pool admission, and supplies like bathing suits and beach towels. Some of our kids arrive the first day wearing shorts instead of a bathing suit and carrying one of their mom’s good bath towels. We provide a bathing suit and a beach towel to every child who needs one
Here’s how you can help:
Make a monetary donation: https://www.youcaring.com/citizensforswimming-850455
Donate supplies! Check out our Amazon Wish List.
Like our Facebook page, and share it with your friends!
Thank you for your support!
June 29, 2017
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Ridgewood NJ, The Ridgewood YMCA Breakers competitive swim team will have two try-outs scheduled for the 2017-2018 short course winter season. The early bird try-out offers the opportunity for the swimmer to be evaluated by our coaching staff and receive notification about their result within 48 hours. The dates for the early bird try-outs are July 31 and August 2 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Registration is prior to the try-outs at 4 p.m. All ages are welcome.
A swimmer who attends the early bird try-out and needs to sharpen their competitive swimming skills will be encouraged to register for the try-out prep class and try-out during the regular try-out held in September. Try-out prep class will meet August 7 through August 23 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays. Please contact Coach Rimbault for more information.
The dates for regular try-outs are September 5 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. for ages 9 to 12 years old, September 6 from 5:00-6:45 p.m. for children 8 years old and under and September 7 from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. for those children ages 13 and up. This last session date is also a make-up session. A full tryout schedule is available online at www.ridgewoodymca.org/breakers-tryouts.
The Ridgewood YMCA Breakers competitive swim team encompasses swimmers who can properly swim the four competitive strokes; providing youths the opportunity to acquire the skills, self-discipline, confidence, and physical conditioning to become the best swimmers they can be. The program offers instruction, training, and competition to young people from ages 6 through high school. Swimmers will improve their skills while also learning the values of teamwork and sportsmanship and individual responsibility.
For additional information, please contact YMCA Swim Team Coach, Bud Rimbault, at 201.444.5600, ext. 319, or email brimbault@ridgewoodymca.org
Sat, May 20, 2017
Time: 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Location: Ridgewood Country Club, 96 W. Midland Avenue, Paramus NJ 07652
Honoring Ridgewood YMCA Camp Bernie and Rick Claydon for over 100 years of service to the community
SATURDAY, MAY 20, 2017
6:30 – 10:30pm
Ridgewood Country Club
96 W. Midland Avenue, Paramus, NJ 07652
For more information, contact Jennifer Batelli at
201.444.5600 x320 or email jbatelli@ridgewoodymca.org
Location: Ridgewood YMCA, 112 Oak St., Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Ridgewood NJ, Community members are invited to attend a presentation by Hannah Rendell and Raed Abu Leil of the Jerusalem International YMCA on Thursday, November 10 at 7:30pm at the Ridgewood YMCA.
The Jerusalem International YMCA has been serving the people of Jerusalem for over 133 years, facilitating peaceful coexistence between its communities. A meeting ground and conference center for people from all backgrounds and nationalities coming together to discuss issues of shared concern, the Jerusalem International YMCA is a safe haven in this complex region and provides a model for how diversity strengthens us all.
Hannah and Raed will be discussing the current situation in Jerusalem, including shared living for divided Palestinian and Israeli communities, and the important work of the Jerusalem YMCA towards conflict mitigation.
Raed Ab Leil is the General Manger of the YMCA Three Arches Hotel. A Palestinian Christian who was born and raised in East Jerusalem, Raed joined the Jerusalem International YMCA (JIY) in 2006 and has been an integral part of the JIY’s growth over the last decade.
Hannah Rendell is the Director of Development at the JIY. A Jewish Israeli who is dedicated and passionate about the importance of shared positive experiences between Israeli and Palestinian communities, Hannah brings to this presentation her own personal experiences and perspective on the mission of the JIY in serving its community.
The Ridgewood YMCA is located at 112 Oak Street in Ridgewood.
To RSVP for this free event, please contact Jen Batelli at 201.444.5600 x320 or email jbatelli@ridgewoodymca.org.
Ridgewood NJ, Tryouts for the Ridgewood YMCA Breakers competitive swim team will take place Tuesday, September 6 through Thursday, September 8 at the Y’s Oak Street location. A full tryout schedule is available online at
www.ridgewoodymca.org/breakers-tryouts.
The Ridgewood YMCA Breakers competitive swim team encompasses all ability levels, providing youths the opportunity to acquire the skills, self-discipline, confidence, and physical conditioning to become the best swimmers they can be. The program offers instruction, training, and competition to young people of all abilities from ages 6 through high school. Swimmers will improve their skills while also learning the values of teamwork and sportsmanship.
For additional information, please contact YMCA Swim Team Coach, Bud Rimbault, at 201.444.5600, ext. 319, or email brimbault@ridgewoodymca.org
