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Fatal Mid-Air Collision: Two Helicopters Crash Near Hammonton Airport; One Dead, One Critical

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An Enstrom F-28A helicopter and Enstrom 280C helicopter collided in mid-air near Hammonton Municipal Airport

photo courtesy of ABC Channel 6

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Hammonton NJ, a quiet Sunday morning in Atlantic County turned into a scene of tragedy and chaos as two helicopters collided in mid-air near the Hammonton Municipal Airport. The high-altitude impact on December 28, 2025, resulted in one fatality and left another pilot fighting for their life.

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“Rest in Peace, Paulie”: Woodcliff Lake Mourns the Sudden Loss of Fire Legend Paul Bechtel

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Woodcliff Lake community is in mourning following the sudden passing of Paul Bechtel, a man whose name was synonymous with service, community spirit, and the local firefighting family

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, known affectionately as “Paulie,” Bechtel’s death was confirmed by Mayor Carlos Rendo and the Woodcliff Lake Fire Department (WLFD) on December 28, 2025. The news follows reports of police activity on Saddle River Road, which authorities later clarified was related to the sudden passing of the beloved former Fire Official.

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“Santa Lane” Takes Over: Why This Washington Township Street is a Must-See Holiday Landmark

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“Santa Corridor” that has become a viral sensation on local NJ social media groups

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Twp of Washington NJ, If you’re driving through the Township of Washington this December, you might feel like you’ve taken a wrong turn and ended up at the North Pole. Mountain Avenue, now affectionately known by locals as “Santa Lane,” has once again transformed into one of the most unique holiday spectacles in Bergen County.

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“Tip of the Iceberg”: FBI Surges Resources to Minnesota Amid $1 Billion Fraud Investigation

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Governor Tim Walz (D) is on the hot seat!

photo FBI Director Kash Patel

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Minneapolis, Minnesota, the fallout from Minnesota’s massive pandemic-era fraud scandal has reached a boiling point. On Sunday, December 28, 2025, FBI Director Kash Patel announced a major surge of personnel and investigative resources to the state, declaring that the infamous Feeding Our Future scheme was merely “the tip of a very large iceberg.”

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When Self-Perception Becomes a Health Priority

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What does it really mean to feel “well”? For a long time, health was measured by numbers—heart rate, weight, cholesterol levels. These are still important. But lately, a new kind of wellness is getting attention. It has less to do with physical symptoms and more to do with how we see ourselves. Self-perception, long brushed off as emotional fluff, is now a real player in how people measure their health.

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Why Brushing Isn’t Just Hygiene—It’s Prevention in Action

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Have you ever skipped brushing one night and told yourself it would not matter? We have all done it. Life gets busy, you are tired, and the toothbrush feels optional. In bustling places like Broomfield, Colorado, where people juggle work, family, and packed schedules, small habits often get pushed aside. Yet brushing your teeth is not just about fresh breath or avoiding awkward moments. It is one of the simplest forms of prevention we have.

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Is New Jersey’s “Climate Superfund” a $9,000 Tax Trap for Families?

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While most of the country is focusing on holiday recovery, Trenton is moving at breakneck speed to pass one of the most controversial pieces of legislation in New Jersey’s history.

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Trenton NJ, the Climate Superfund Act (S-3545/A-4696) is currently slated for a critical vote in the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee on January 8, 2026. While sponsors frame it as a “polluter pays” model, the business community and legal experts are sounding the alarm on what they call “Climate Fraud” that will ultimately be paid for by New Jersey households.

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2026 Ridgewood Parking Permits Now Available: How to Get Yours at Village Hall

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Avoid the ticket! The Village of Ridgewood has officially opened the sale of 2026 parking permits. Whether you are a daily commuter, a local business employee, or a resident needing a one-day pass, now is the time to head to Village Hall and secure your spot

the staff of the ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, to make the process as smooth as possible, here is everything you need to know about the requirements, hours, and location for obtaining your new sticker.

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“Icy Mess”: State of Emergency Declared as Winter Storm Hammers New Jersey Roadways

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The Garden State is currently under a State of Emergency as a powerful winter storm transforms the post-Christmas commute into a treacherous mix of heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, What began as a picturesque snowfall in Downtown Ridgewood quickly turned into a “dangerous mess” along major arteries like Route 17, where near-whiteout conditions and multiple vehicle spinouts were reported Friday evening.

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Life-Saving Rescue in East Rutherford: 72-Year-Old Woman Trapped Under SUV

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The pedestrian was walking westbound on Paterson Avenue when the collision occurred

photo courtesy of the East Rutherford Fire Department

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ — A quiet holiday week turned into a desperate life-saving mission on Tuesday evening when a pedestrian was struck and pinned beneath a vehicle at a busy East Rutherford intersection.

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A Trip Down Memory Lane: Historic Ridgewood Stars in the 2026 Village Calendar

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Check your mailboxes, Ridgewood! The 2026 Village of Ridgewood Calendar is officially on its way to residents, and this year’s edition is more than just a schedule—it’s a curated gallery of our community’s rich, 300-year history

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, this year, the Village has traded modern snapshots for a stunning collection of historic photographs. From the early days of Dutch farming to the Victorian-era railroad boom, each month offers a window into the iconic buildings and long-standing traditions that make the Garden State’s premier suburb so unique.

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Ridgewood Christmas Tree Disposal 2026: Everything You Need to Know

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The holidays are winding down, and it is time to say goodbye to the Tannenbaum. To help residents clear out the pine needles, the Village of Ridgewood has announced the official 2026 Christmas tree collection schedule.

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, Starting January 2 through January 30, the Village will provide curbside pickup to ensure your tree is recycled properly. Here is the breakdown of when and where to leave your tree.

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The Best Ways to Experience Local Flavor When You Travel

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When you travel, one of the most memorable parts of any trip is discovering what makes a place unique. Beyond the scenic views and popular attractions, it’s often the food, traditions, and everyday moments that help you understand the heart of a destination. Some places are especially known for their distinct local flavor, and Gatlinburg is one of them. With its rich Appalachian influence, mountain culture, and down-to-earth charm, the area gives you a real taste of the Smokies through its food and community spirit.

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The Compliance Trap: Why Meeting Minimum Standards Is the Fastest Way to Get Breached

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The modern business landscape is fraught with digital risk, and the financial stakes have never been higher. A single data breach can have catastrophic consequences, with the global average cost now surging to $4.45 million. Faced with this reality, many business leaders turn to compliance frameworks like HIPAA, PCI DSS, or SOC 2 as their primary line of defense, believing that a passing grade on an audit is a shield against cyber threats.

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Governor-Elect Mikie Sherrill Joins Jim Tedesco to Honor Heroes at Paramus Veterans Home

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Return to the Scene of the Crime: Governor-Elect Mikie Sherrill visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home

photos courtesy of Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

PARAMUS, NJ — In one of her first major public appearances since her  election, Governor-Elect Mikie Sherrill visited the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home this afternoon to deliver holiday cheer and a clear message: New Jersey’s veterans will remain a top priority for her administration.

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