Ridgewood October 2024 by Wainscot Media

R idgewood

FINDING HOPE FOR PARKINSON’S AT THE YMCA CENTER WITH A SOUL FOR RIDGEWOOD RESIDENTS

LOCAL FUN AT THE CAR SHOW

The Unstoppable Feagles Family

Editor’s Note

The Love of Learning

There are two things I love about my job: The people I meet and the interesting things I learn as I write about the residents and businesses of Ridgewood. There are a lot of fascinating people in our neighborhood!

This month, I met the Feagles family, whose lives came “full circle” here in town. Jeff’s NFL career planted them in various areas throughout the country, but they decided to settle in Ridgewood to raise their family and launch two businesses.

I learned why Simona Vitali-Bryant is an MVP to those with Parkinson’s

disease who attend her unique programs at the Ridgewood Y and discovered how Deanna Schablik‘s energy and enthusiasm are the driving force of the Ridgewood Community Center’s wellness and educational offerings.

Did you know the Maltin family hosts a spook-tacular Halloween display at their home on West End Avenue each October? This month’s Q&A is your chance to learn how it all comes together.

Speaking of learning, I recently heard about new scientific findings that prove comprehension and retention are better when a person reads printed text rather than digital text. Who knew?!

So, do your Google search or research online, but to effectively absorb what you read, print is the way to go! We’re pleased to bring you both print and digital versions of Ridgewood Magazine each month, so whether you prefer scrolling or page-turning, we’ve got you covered.

Do you have a story to tell? Send me your suggestions; and perhaps we will cover them in an upcoming issue. There’s always more to learn!

Happy Fall!

Kris Pepper Editor

Ridgewood MAGAZINE

Editor

Kris Pepper

Writers

Ralph Baylor

Justine Boone

Kris Pepper

Photographers

Justine Boone

Taryn Carroll Photography

Peter Maltin

Chris Marksbury

Marjorie Raggo

WAINSCOT MEDIA

Chairman Carroll V. Dowden

President and CEO

Mark Dowden

VP, Group Publisher, Regional

Thomas Flannery

VP, Content Strategy

Maria Regan

Creative Director

Kijoo Kim

Art Director

Rosemary O’Connell

Associate Editor

Sophia Carlisle

Advertising Services Director

Jacquelynn Fischer

Operations Director

Catherine Rosario

Production Designer

Chris Ferrante

Print Production Manager

Fern Meshulam

Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden

Ridgewood Magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Ridgewood, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2024 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

PHOTOGRAPH BY MARJORIE RAGGO

Frankenstein Rice Krispie Treats

Frankly, These Treats will be the Hit of the Party!

RECIPE CONTRIBUTED BY JUSTINE BOONE OF TREAT ME SWEET.

Your friends will be green with envy when you serve these fun and festive Frankenstein Rice Krispie Treats at your Halloween event. Justine Boone of Treat Me Sweet gives us the how-to’s to make this yummy fall treat.

INGREDIENTS

• 6 cups Rice Krispie Cereal

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 1 package of 10 ounce mini marshmallows

• Green gel food coloring

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

• 1 cup chocolate chips

• 24 candy eyes (or cut mini marshmallows in half)

• Brown sprinkles

• 24 Rolos

• Black writing gel

• Prep Time: 10 min.

• Cook Time: 15 min.

• Standing Time: 30 min.

• Total Time: 55 min.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Spray a 9x13 pan with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.

2. Place the butter and marshmallow in a large saucepan and melt butter over low heat, stirring frequently.

3. Once combined, remove from heat and add the green gel food coloring until the mixture is bright green.

4. Gradually stir in the Rice Krispie Cereal. Mix until the cereal is coated in the marshmallow and butter mixture.

5. Press the mix into the 9x13 pan. It is helpful to put some cooking spray onto a piece of parchment paper and use it to press the cereal down into the baking dish, nice and tight.

6. Put the pan aside and let it cool at room temperature.

7. Once cooled, cut into small rectangles and put onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

8. Melt your chocolate chips in a microwave-safe dish by heating in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until fully melted.

9. Dip the top of each Rice Krispie into the melted chocolate and place onto the baking sheet, top with some brown sprinkles.

10. Use the rest of the chocolate as glue to stick on your candy eyeballs and Rolo candy sides.

11. Use your black writing gel to draw a mouth on each. If you don’t have gel, you can use melted chocolate.

12. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes until the chocolate is set. Then enjoy your spooky sweet treats with friends!

Treat Me Sweet Cookies is a gourmet sweet shop located in the heart of Ridgewood. Woman-owned and operated since 2013, the shop opened in Ridgewood in 2022. This sweet spot offers a wide variety of services ranging from kids’ activities to corporate branding and everything in between. Be sure to stop by Treat Me Sweet cookies this year for all your Halloween spooky treats!

Honoring Ridgewood High School’s 2024 Distinguished Alumni

Ridgewood graduates make a positive impact throughout the generations.

BY KRIS PEPPER AND RIDGEWOOD HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

The Ridgewood High School Alumni Association (RHSAA) recently honored recipients of this year’s Distinguished Alumni Awards, an honor recognizing the achievements of alumni who have made significant contributions to society through their personal lives, individual passions, talents, professional accomplishments and/or community service. The event was part of this year’s Homecoming Weekend.

The 2024 class of inductees included Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, Alan C. Miller (1972); technology pioneer and “Botfather,” Robert Hoffer (1981); Academy and Emmy award-winning producer, Libby Geist-Wildes (1998); and academic competition founder and Jeopardy! winner, David Madden (1999).

“These four inductees join a growing list of outstanding former RHS students who have created a long-lasting impact on society and who bridge the gap between the past and the future,” said Ridgewood High School (RHS) Principal Jeff Nyhuis.

Congratulations to the 2024 inductees!

ALAN C. MILLER - ‘72

Alan C. Miller is the founder of the News Literacy Project (NLP), the leading provider of news literacy education in the country. He helped launch the field of news literacy when he started NLP in 2008. NLP’s award-winning nonpartisan resources are being used in all 50 states. After more than 14 years leading the organization, Alan stepped down as CEO in July 2022 but remains active with NLP. He previously had a distinguished journalism career at The Times Union in Albany, NY, The Record in Hackensack, NJ, and the Los Angeles Times, where he worked for 21 years, primarily in the paper’s Washington bureau.

LIBBY GEIST WILDES - ‘98

Libby Geist, RHS Class of ‘98, oversees all documentaries and docuseries as President of Words + Pictures. Since she started at W+P in 2021, the company has produced and sold projects to HBO, Netflix, AppleTV+, Amazon and ESPN, including two-time Emmy winner SuperLeague: The War for Football and Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story which premiered at Sundance earlier this year.

DAVID MADDEN‘99

David Madden is one of the most successful contestants in the history of the quiz show Jeopardy! and the founder and Executive Director of International Academic Competitions, an organization serving students in over 50 countries. Six years after captaining the RHS quiz bowl team to a state title and a second-place finish at the National Championships, David appeared on Jeopardy! in 2005, winning 19 consecutive shows. As of 2024, his winning streak is the eighth longest in the show’s history.

ROBERT HOFFER - ‘81 (UNABLE TO ATTEND THE EVENT)

Robert Hoffer, renowned as the “Botfather,” has made unparalleled contributions to the technology and AI industries through his groundbreaking inventions and visionary insights. As a co-founder of Colloquis, Hoffer developed SmarterChild, the first commercially viable AI chatbot for instant messaging. This pioneering innovation transformed human-computer interaction, laying the foundation for modern virtual assistants and conversational AI technologies that are prevalent in today’s digital landscape.

From Left: RHS Distinguished Alumni inductees David Madden, Libby Geist-Wildes, Alan Miller. Top: Libby Geist-Wildes and brother Willie (left) visiting guests at the alumni event.

Around Town

LOCAL FUN at the

CAR SHOW

The Ridgewood Car Show rolled into town last month and didn’t disappoint.

PHOTOS AND ARTICLE BY KRIS PEPPER

A 1967 Beetle owned by Bob and Joyce Ohaus.

The 32nd Annual Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce Car Show revved up at the starting line of the Village’s fall events on Friday, Sept. 6, 2024. Featuring new and vintage cars, trucks and motorcycles, the American Legion Post 57 even brought unique military jeeps and trucks to the delight of all guests—especially the kids!

Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce

Executive Director, Joan Groome, states, “Thirty-two years ago, the car show was originated by then-Chamber president, Tom Hillmann. He had a vision to combine his passion for cars with attracting people to downtown Ridgewood to enjoy our beautiful village.”

Over 345 car enthusiasts shared their coolest rides throughout downtown Ridgewood. A beautiful end-of-summer evening, live music and the Village’s signature outdoor dining scene topped off a fun and community-minded evening drawing 5,000 to 7,000 visitors.

Bob and Joyce Ohaus “bugged” out of Oakland to bring their 1967 Beetle to the show. Bob bought the car about ten years ago after looking far and wide for the perfect bug, which was in great condition. He rebuilt the motor, cleaned it up and re-installed a set of original wheels. “The grandkids love it,” he says.

Jim VanGenderen of Haskell has owned his 1959 MGA Coupe for over 20 years. The Mineral Blue color was exclusive to the 1959 production year. Pretty sweet ride.

Kevin Ruel of Westwood drove up in his 1964 Deep Crystal Blue Ford Falcon. An automotive masterpiece, almost all restoration work was done by Kevin himself.

Try to touch this truck! This bad boy is almost out of reach for this kiddo but was definitely a crowd-pleaser.

The Maltin’s “Mansion” is where the ghouls gather in October.

The Ridgewood Halloween House

BY KRIS PEPPER

As the crisp fall air settles in each year and Halloween approaches, Peter and Sara Maltin transform their front yard into a hauntingly spectacular attraction, drawing thousands of people to their home at 294 West End Ave. In this month’s Q&A, Peter reveals a few of his secrets for raising neighborhood spirits throughout the Halloween season.

What prompted you to begin presenting this elaborate Halloween display?

I started with a few scary props in 2017. We didn’t get many trick-or-treaters, and we had a big front yard with plenty of space, so I started devising displays to attract interest and gain attention at Halloween. I started small. As I added more props, the experience became a winding labyrinth of thrills and chills through my front yard.

How long does it take you to set up?

Six weeks. I usually begin Labor Day weekend, but I start thinking about it in March and begin my actual planning in June. We use about 50 props. I don’t have much more room for things, so we cycle things in and out each year. Friends usually help me take it down a few days

after Halloween. Getting it down is a lot easier—putting it up is all on me!

Over 50 props! Where do you store them all?

We have a full-length, vaulted attic where most of the props are stored. Packing and unpacking requires going up and down three levels. I always have to warn exterminators and contractors who need to head up to our attic to “watch out for the zombies!” Having a big front yard and plenty of storage is key. I don’t think I could do this if I lived anywhere else!

What (or who) is your favorite ghoul?

My favorite is the screaming banshee perched on the top of the house. I’ve heard kids say it reminds them of their mom before her coffee! I also love the

mummy that drops down and scares people, and we have a three-piece band that plays “Bad to the Bone.”

“Bruce” is another crowdpleaser who hides behind the trees and jumps out at unsuspecting visitors. He weighs a few hundred pounds and is our only pneumatic prop. He can’t be out in the weather, so I bring him in and out every night.

When can we visit?

We are open Friday and Saturday nights in October, and, of course, Oct. 30 and 31, weather permitting. We will be open Fridays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. (the first hour on Saturday is less scary for the little creepers). Hours on Oct. 30 are 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., and on Halloween from 4:00 to 10:00 p.m.

Ridgewood’s Home Team

The Feagles bring team play to new heights.

Although they grew up as high school sweethearts in Arizona, Jeff and Michelle Feagles have located— and relocated—all over the United States throughout their marriage, thanks to Jeff’s 22-year NFL career.

Discovering his talent for punting as a senior in high school, Jeff continued playing in community college and later at the University of Miami in Florida, which led to 22 seasons of play and 352 games

BY KRIS PEPPER

overall for the New England Patriots, Philadelphia Eagles, Arizona Cardinals, Seattle Seahawks and finally, the New York Giants with a Super Bowl XLII win against the New England Patriots.

Rooted in Ridgewood

When Jeff became a Giant, the couple moved to Ridgewood to raise their boys, CJ, Blake, Trevor and Zach.

“We had plenty of experience moving,

buying and selling homes throughout Jeff’s football career—over 25 moves throughout three presidential administrations,” says Michelle.

Upon his retirement from football, Jeff exchanged life on the gridiron for a (slightly) less grueling profession, and real estate became the name of the game. Sons Blake and Zach joined their father in the business, kicking off the Feagles Real Estate team with Keller Williams Village Square Realty.

Above: Blake, Jeff and Zach working on their next project.

Town Home Luxury Resale

As the boys grew up, Michelle, who also has her real estate license, decided to pursue her passion for luxury resale furnishings and accessories, opening Town Home at 171 East Ridgewood Avenue. The shop fits the family’s dynamic perfectly. “We moved so much with Jeff’s job over the years, and I discovered the resale home furnishings market,” says Michelle. “You can buy things at a fraction of the original cost, and the quality is better. And, I love having something with a ‘soul.’”

The bespoke furnishings in Town Home are an extension of Michelle herself. Many items were custom-made for the interior design trades, and the space is brimming with high-quality pieces and distinctive labels at a wide range of prices.

However, it’s not a consignment shop. Michelle regularly visits estate sales to purchase lighting fixtures, furniture and accessories. “Consignment is too transactional for me,” she says. “Part of my passion is buying what I love,” she says. “I would furnish my own home with any of these items. It means so much to me when people tell me they love coming into the store or that the pieces they bought years ago are still very special to them. If I can

give a sliver of happiness to someone else, it makes me happy, too.”

Michelle’s eye for design and discriminating good taste comes into play in the real estate business, as she serves as a staging and styling expert for the home listings of the Feagles team, which is now developing a new business angle comprised of purchasing, renovating and relisting properties. “We’ve done this so many times for ourselves; now we are doing it as an investment,” says Michelle. The sales process includes hosting two open houses: one to sell the home itself and an open “show house” to exhibit and sell the staging furnishings and accessories.

Team Champions in Football and Real Estate

The Feagle team understands that success in real estate shares many similarities with the game of football. “Michelle is an integral part of the business, and she understands each of us individually,” says Jeff. “She’s our head coach—she keeps us in line and holds us accountable. Additionally, we all have our individual ‘positions’ for each facet of the business—whether that’s listing, marketing, valuation and sales,” says Jeff. “We work hard together and go out and try

to win our game!”

Life comes full circle as the younger members of the Feagles team are now helping the friends they grew up with to find their own homes in town.

“I never realized how special Ridgewood is until I got into real estate,” says Blake. “I appreciate that I was able to grow up here. Not every young professional has a desire to return to their hometown, so it’s truly a testament to Ridgewood!”

Zach notes, “It’s been a full-circle experience returning to town and working in real estate. I’m grateful to be able to do that in this very close-knit community. It’s a fun challenge, and I’m excited to see where our careers will go.”

Michelle and Jeff have found it rewarding to watch their sons learn about real estate, construction and investment. “It’s great to see our kids immersed in their careers,” says Michelle.

Flag Football—Bring on the Doughnuts!

One way the Feagles give back to the community is through sponsoring the Ridgewood Junior Flag Football League. “Sponsoring the league is great,” says Zach. “We make it fun for the kids. It’s more

for us than slapping a logo on a tent. We attend the games and bring doughnuts, bagels and hot chocolate. Sometimes, my dad brings his Super Bowl trophy for the kids to see, too.”

Jeff says, “Our boys played football through college. [Blake at the University of Connecticut and Zach at Miami and Rutgers]. Growing up, they played on these same fields. We are proud to be a sponsor—it’s who we are.”

After years of traveling across the country, the Feagles are happy with their decision to touch down and settle in the Village of Ridgewood. “Raising kids in a small town is priceless. Ridgewood is a very special place,” says Michelle. See more at: feagleshometeam.com or find them on social media at: @townhome&garden.

Kris Pepper is a communications professional in New York City and the editor of Ridgewood Magazine.

Above and opposite page: Michelle and her estate sale treasures at Town Home. Below right: Jeff’s XLII Super Bowl “treasure.”

The Y’s Programs for Parkinson’s

The Fight is BIG and LOUD.

BY KRIS PEPPER

Neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease are chronic conditions that damage and destroy parts of the nervous system over time, especially your brain. Although these conditions are considered incurable, the Ridgewood Y has taken significant steps to address the need for treatment, support and wellness programs for people with Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Lorna Deveaux, vice president of health and wellness at the Y, has overseen the development of these programs over the past three years. “I get phone calls every day from newly diagnosed Parkinson’s patients who don’t know where to turn,” she says. “I usually recommend they begin with the support group on Mondays, which helps people better understand their options and next steps.”

Opposite page: Simona and the Specials posing for a joyful picture. This page: Ladder training with the Specials.

A Strong Community

Spending time with others sharing the same diagnosis can help mitigate the fear of the disease and provide opportunities to learn from those who have similar experiences. “Life goes on,” says Lorna. “This community will help you. You will work out together, cry together and laugh together.”

Programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of people diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Participants register for packages of one to five classes per week, and paid classes include a membership to the Y so they can work out individually.

Meet Simona

Simona Vitali-Bryant is the Parkinson’s group fitness leader, facilitator, advocate and cheerleader. With a lengthy list of certifications and qualifications to her name, Simona is the creator of the multi-sensory programs, The Art of BIG, YOU MOVE BIG, and Pilates for Parkinson’s, providing a full roster of comprehensive wellness and support programs for people with

varying conditions.

“I began with one class and five participants,” says Simona. “Now we have 100 people (I call them my Specials) participating in various classes geared to stimulate movement and sensory skills. Everyone is friendly, and each session brings the intrinsic motivation of joy and a sense of community to all involved!”

“Simona brings knowledge and a sense of organic joy to the table in her classes,” says Lorna. “She brings happy energy to participants, welcoming them with open arms.”

Think BIG!

Simona is an intrinsic motivator and is steadfast in encouraging her students. “They are all so special to me,” she says. “I tell them, since you are special, you have to move bigger and do big things. Stay joyful!”

The programs are effective because they are based on repetitive, exaggerated (BIG!) movements in all planes of motion, incorporating music and dance patterns. Trivia quizzes, writing exercises, problem-solving, reciting poetry and loud singing trigger

Above: Simona Vitali-Bryant. Below: You Move BIG and the Specials.

multi-sensory brain stimulation, which helps to re-educate the brain and improve vocal disorders.

Simona designs her classes to engage a sense of surprise and delight. All classes are unique and offer something different in each session. “While participants engage in a class, they identify with the group and the leader,” she says. “This builds a sense of joy and community while helping to delay the progress of the condition. And there’s always a sense of suspense—they never know what we will do next!”

A Place of Their Own

Program participant Annette Saviet states, “Receiving a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease was, among other things, confusing. However, walking into the Ridgewood YMCA and meeting Simona was just what I needed. Not only are Simona’s movement classes, creative arts class, support group and special events programs giving me tools to use as a person with Parkinson’s, but these programs are

informative and fun, and they remind me that I’m not alone.”

The Caretaker’s Support Group, held on the first Monday of each month, provides a safe space for people to share their unique struggles and challenges as they watch changes occur in their loved ones.

“The caretakers group is a key part of my self-care,” says Karen Norton. “You need to have an outlet of your own now and then. We share resources and tips and provide encouragement and support to each other. The group provides an outlet where everyone can hear about your unique struggles as we validate each other’s efforts.”

“Simona’s support group is a bright light in a sometimes dim and dark journey,” says Selina Hellenmayer. “She goes above and beyond to bring us the best and most updated information in a loving and encouraging environment.”

This fall, there’s more to come with the grand opening of Ping Pong Parkinson’s on Oct. 23. Ping pong has been proven to be highly effective in relieving the symptoms

of Parkinson’s. As the holidays arrive, participants will hone their acting skills to present “The Christmas Rhapsody” on Dec. 14.

The powerful support of the Ridgewood Y has been pivotal in optimizing physical function, delaying symptom progression and bringing joy to people with Parkinson’s.

“My life has improved in every way thanks to Simona’s classes and support program. Her classes are truly the best part of my day,” says Karen Rosenbaum. “I am moving better and have increased confidence in my balance and mobility. I have made wonderful friends and received much support and information from the group. I feel like I have a new family and a sense of belonging as I get stronger. The camaraderie is empowering.”

Participant Roben Seltzer puts it best for anyone with a recent Parkinson’s diagnosis: “My advice: Don’t hesitate when you can take a step to a better life.”

Check out the Y’s website at ridgewoodymca.org to learn more.

Top left: Simona and the Specials during You Move BIG. Above: Arlene the Rock

Top left: Civic Youth Corps meeting. Top right: Intense Chess. Bottom right: Bike Rodeo with EZ Ride and Ridgewood Police Department. Above: Deanna at RCC’s 50s Party.

The Center With a Soul

At the Ridgewood Community Center you may arrive alone, but you’ll leave with friends.

BY KRIS PEPPER

Across the country, local community centers are the lifeline to many neighborhood residents. Most Americans agree that access to low- or no-cost fitness, wellness and educational opportunities enhances communities—and Ridgewood is no exception.

The Ridgewood Community Center (RCC), managed under the umbrella of the Ridgewood Parks and Recreation provides powerful and engaging opportunities for residents to learn and connect—as programs also tend to be a catalyst for sparking new friendships.

Deanna Schablik, the Community Center’s Recreation Program Coordinator, has led the charge for over ten years, but her community service endeavors began long before she accepted the position.

“I worked as a crossing guard at Linwood and Fairfield Avenues,” she says. “It was a tough corner, but I loved it,” she says. “Off-season, I’d work in the Ridgewood Health Department. When my son was in Boy Scouts, my husband and I volunteered with the troop where we met Nancy Bigos, Director of Ridgewood Parks and Recreation. Nancy introduced me to the opportunity of working for the RCC, and that’s where it all started!”

Something for everyone

All ages and all abilities visit the Ridgewood Community Center for social, wellness and

educational programs, and its participants enjoy the time spent together. “Most Ridgewood residents have been here at one time or another—either to attend themselves or to bring a parent or child for a program, exercise class or lecture,” says Deanna.

“This is where friendships and social networks are built—for both seniors and kids,” she continues. “People come together for different reasons. They don’t know each other at first, but by the end of the session, we see them walking out and chatting with people they didn’t know before the program. It’s wonderful!”

Seniors enjoy fitness, wellness and educational programs at minimal cost, such as Tai Chi,

Strength Building, Chair Yoga and Dance and Sculpt. There are also classic movie viewings and local outings. A trip to the Health Barn on Hillcrest Road to pick vegetables and cook a healthy lunch together is always a highly anticipated outing.

Membership in HILT (Highlights in Leisure Time) is an additional option for Village residents 55 and older. A minimal fee includes monthly meetings and informational presentations. Social events and trips to dinner theaters, museums, historical sights and sightseeing tours are planned throughout the year.

Exciting events

Over 100 seniors enjoy the Giving Thanks Ridgewood Elder Dinner each year, scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 10, at the Old Paramus Reformed Church. Guests will be treated to the smooth sounds of the Maroon Men and various acapella groups while feasting on a delicious meal. The Centers’ multi-generational environment comes full circle here, as young volunteers who participate in the Civic Youth Corps (a volunteer organization for high school students who reside in Ridgewood) help bring the event to life.

The RCC has just wrapped up its summer camp programs, and this fall, teens get cooking with Culinary Arts at the HealthBarn. An annual Bike Rodeo—a

collaborative effort between the Ridgewood police department and EZ Ride—rolled into town recently to teach young children the basics of riding a bike and provide more seasoned riders with critical road safety skills.

Musically inclined kids can sign up for RCC’s Piano workshop, and the Center is fine-tuning its plans for a glee club program, too.

Table tennis, anyone? It appeals to people of all ages and has been proven especially helpful for people with Parkinson’s disease. Groups are forming now, so paddle on in.

The RCC’s recent multi-generational table tennis tournament ended in a nail-biting final round between a high student and a 70-year-old senior. The younger player was

victorious that day, but perhaps a rematch is in order!

It was “game-on” as teens and adults made the move to attend their recent Board Game Carnival. The studentorganized event proved that lively, faceto-face, inter-generational board games outwit, outplay and outwin excessive screen time—every time!

The Ridgewood Community Center is a winner in and of itself, with a recent award recognition by the Daniel M. Gasalberti Excellence in Recreation Programming from the NJRPA (New Jersey Recreation and Park Association). All programs are incredibly affordable thanks to community support, private donations, and an operating budget that subsidizes Ridgewood residents’ expenses. Non-residents are also welcome to participate—but at a higher fee. The RCC also partners with the health department to offer flu clinics, child health care clinics and blood pressure testing.

A personal connection

The Ridgewood Community Center is not only rewarding for its participants, it’s incredibly rewarding for Deanna as well.

“In May, I was surprised with a birthday party in my own facility,” she says. “I was planning an event and members spun it around into a party for my 55th birthday. I was inducted as a member of HILT, and they made me promise that I would one day take on the presidency of the club when I retire. The day was complete with cake, flowers, balloons, and a tiara!”

Deanna’s high energy level fits her job requirements perfectly. “Every day is different. I love that. I don’t like to sit still. You have to be able to adapt and react very quickly, and there are a lot of moving parts. I do about 10,000 steps a day! I’ve found the perfect profession for me. Certain people are meant for certain jobs in life, and this is mine!”

Community Center volunteer water table at the Memorial Day Ridgewood Run.

The Community Center of Ridgewood Foundation is a 501c3 charitable organization, supporting the programs, events, and socialization efforts community-wide. It is currently seeking monetary donations to support the expansion of senior and youth programs and to provide outreach to those who may not have the means to participate. The Foundation supports other nonprofits to further our outreach to the community.

Find more information at: ridgewoodnj.net/188/Community-Center

Top left: Chinese Checkers at Board Game Carnival. Bottom left: Siblings playing Blokus, RCC’s version of Tetris. Top right: Deanna’s 55th birthday party. Bottom right: Chinese Art class.

Improving Mental Health for Bergen County’s Families

Terrifying Tomes for Frightful Nights

Need to up the scare factor this Halloween? Check out these spook-tacular tales.

BY RALPH BAYLOR

Librarians love books, that is a simple fact. But I happen to like all things horror. If I am not reading a scary novel, I am probably watching the latest vampire movie or playing a video game taking down zombies. In celebration of the fall and Halloween, here is a list of some of my favorite scary books. Ranked in order from a little spooky to horrifying!

Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (2020)

Overview: This gothic horror novel set in 1950s Mexico follows Noemí Taboada, a glamorous socialite who receives a desperate letter from her cousin, claiming her new husband is trying to kill her. Noemí travels to a remote mansion filled with dark secrets and sinister family history to help her sister.

Why It’s Spooky: The creepy atmosphere, haunting family dynamics and supernatural elements build a sense of dread, blending Mexican folklore with gothic horror.

The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson (1959)

Overview: This classic novel tells the story of four individuals who are drawn to Hill House, an eerie mansion with a dark past. As they spend time there, each character begins to face their own inner demons. This book was the inspiration for the hit Netflix show of the same name.

Why It’s Spooky: Jackson’s masterful use of psychological horror and the unreliable narration create a pervasive sense of unease. Hill House itself is as much a character as the people trapped within it.

The Last House on Needless Street by Catriona Ward (2021)

Overview: Ted lives a solitary life in a secluded house at the edge of a forest, guarding dark secrets. When a new neighbor moves in, her investigation into a missing child forces long-buried horrors to come to light. Told from multiple perspectives, this unsettling thriller keeps readers guessing.

Why It’s Spooky: Ward masterfully unravels layers of psychological horror, unreliable narration and disturbing revelations. This claustrophobic, mind-bending story will leave you questioning what is real and what isn’t.

The Between by Tananarive Due (1995)

Overview: Hilton James is haunted by the traumatic drowning he survived as a child. Now as an adult, he experiences bizarre occurrences and horrifying nightmares that suggest his reality is unraveling. His wife, a judge, begins receiving death threats, pushing him further into paranoia.

Why It’s Spooky: Tananarive Due is a master of psychological horror. This novel combines supernatural elements with themes of race, family and trauma, exploring how unresolved pasts can come back to haunt the present.

My Heart is a Chainsaw by Stephen Graham Jones (2021) (My all-time favorite book and author)

Overview: Jade Daniels, a halfIndian high schooler obsessed with slasher films, is convinced that a series of grisly murders in her small town is the beginning of a real-life horror movie. As the town’s history unravels, Jade’s deep knowledge of slasher tropes becomes her survival guide.

Why It’s Spooky: Jones infuses this novel with sharp commentary on the horror genre itself, creating a slasher story full of blood, tension and cultural insight. Jade’s character offers a fresh, rebellious voice in horror. If you like the Scream movie franchise or 1980’s slashers, this is your book.

Librarian Ralph Baylor curates a private book and art collection in Manhattan.

Cozy Cafes

Breakfast lovers can unite at these Ridgewood cafes and coffee houses.

Ridgewood Coffee Company

133 East Ridgewood Avenue (201) 389 6444

Traditional coffee fare pairs with an extensive brunch menu, making Ridgewood Coffee Company a great place for commuters and diners alike. ridgewoodcoffeecompany.square.site @ridgewoodcoffeecompany

Rey Sol Coffee

22 Chestnut Street (908) 227 1804

Columbian coffee grounds make for rich and earthy drinks. Pair with a pastry or one of Rey Sol’s tempting desserts. reysolcoffee.com @reysolcoffee

American Bulldog Coffee Roasters

31 North Broad Street (210) 857 4176

A coffee shop and bakery specializing in organic coffee roasting and baked goods. Vegan options available. americanbulldogcoffeeroasters.com

Pierre & Michel Authentic

French Bakery

38 East Ridgewood Avenue (201) 444 8111

A French bakery offering pâtisseries, macarons, tarts, breads and more. @pierre_michel_bakery

Sook Pastry

24-26 South Broad Street (201) 493 2500

Sook Pastry specializes in French pastries, cakes, crêpes and other desserts. They also have savory options, like sandwiches and quiches, available. sookpastry.com

Village Tea Shop

2 South Maple (201) 857 0230

A variety of tea options are available at the Village Tea Shop, including loose leaf, vegan milk tea and bubble tea. villageteashop.net @villageteashop

White Maple Café

47 East Ridgewood Avenue (201) 345 9538

The White Maple Café can feed your family for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. Enjoy American food and upscale eats. whitemaplecafe.com

Zen Haus Café

9 South Broad Street (973) 400 0009

With a focus on wellness, Zen Haus Café serves lattes, smoothies and more in a pretty presentation. clover.com/online-ordering/haus-cafe-llcfair-lawn @thehauscafe

Le Pancake Cafe

140 E Ridgewood Avenue (201) 444 9090

Sweet pancakes, French toast and Belgian waffles are just a few of the delights on the menu at this breakfast and coffee cafe. lepancakecafeorder.com @pancakecaferidgewood

Rosie’s Bagel Cafe

205 East Ridgewood Avenue (551) 815 1038

Traditional American breakfast and lunches are served here in a warm and cozy atmosphere. rosiesbagel.com

Gong Cha

194 East Ridgewood Avenue (201) 272 2102

Enjoy all things bubble tea at this Gong Cha location in Ridgewood. gongchausa.com/new-jerseyridgewood @gongchatea

Baumgart’s Café

158 Franklin Avenue (201) 612 5688

A Pan-Asian diner also serving American Fare. House made ice cream is available. baumgartscafe.com