10 Basking Ridge Feel Good Stories From 2025 That Will Make You Smile

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — The news isn't always bad — far from it. In the Basking Ridge area, students created nonprofits, a radio host is helping kids find their voice, and police helped to celebrate a man's 99th birthday.

As we look back on the year, here are some of the stories in the Basking Ridge area that made us smile.

Basking Ridge Firefighter Honored For 50 Years Of Service

Mike Delgado was honored for serving five decades or 50 years on the Basking Ridge Fire Company by the Township, County, State, and Congressional figures.

Delgado was honored on Tuesday night with resolutions recognizing his service from the Bernards Township Committee, Governor Phil Murphy, Congressman Tom Kean Jr., Senator Jon Bramnick, Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz, and Assemblywoman Michelle Matsikoudis.

Ridge Seniors Spread Comfort, Joy To Those In Need Through 'Hearts For Healing'

Two Ridge High School seniors passionate about giving back and making a difference in this world have created the organization "Hearts for Healing" to provide small yet meaningful support to those in need.

Basking Ridge Radio Host, Voice Over Artist Is Helping Kids Find Their Voice

Award-winning radio host, voice-over artist, and public speaking coach Loren Raye of Basking Ridge has always been an open book where public speaking came naturally to her growing up.

"I was one of the weird ones, and I still am. I very much know who I am," said Raye to Patch of public speaking. "I've always been the kind of kid that has loved doing that."

Basking Ridge Local Earns Scholarship For Raising 2 Seeing Eye Puppies

A Basking Ridge local has earned a scholarship from Seeing Eye for raising at least two Seeing Eye puppies.

Marion Annette Sblendori of the Somerset County Puppy Raising Club demonstrated a "high level of academic achievement and community involvement," according to Seeing Eye.

Ridge Seniors Launch Non-Profit To Help Fund Student-Led Businesses, Clubs

Two friends and Ridge High School seniors, Jack Schlenker and Leo van der Valk, started a nonprofit to help fund local student-led businesses and clubs.

The pair both participate in a variety of school clubs and activities. Through their participation, they learned that very few clubs receive school funding and are instead dependent on fundraisers and member dues to remain active.

99-Year-Old World War 2 Veteran Honored With Drive-By Parade In Basking Ridge

Bernards Township Police Officers conducted a drive-by birthday parade for Harry Epple, a World War 2 veteran, on Saturday.

Scout Renovates Liberty Corner Presbyterian Church’s Worship Stage Earns Eagle Rank

Eagle Scout from Liberty Corner Troop 54, Matthew Sprinkle, a freshman at High Point University in North Carolina, has earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, the highest honor in Scouting America, on Aug. 11.

For his Eagle Scout project, Matthew spearheaded a comprehensive renovation of the Liberty Corner Presbyterian Church’s worship stage. He oversaw a team of more than 20 participants and executed a plan that took months to develop.

Ridge High School Student Starts Teen-Run Business Helping Locals With Odd Jobs

An ambitious Ridge High School student and entrepreneur Noah Kristiansen's business is all about helping his classmates and residents — hence the name BRHelpingHands.

Bernardsville Mom Starts Itty Bitty Bins To Encourage Sensory Play In Children

Always a teacher at heart, Bernardsville local and mom Amanda Gardner is continuing to encourage sensory play in children through her unique business Itty Bitty Bins.

Gardner was a teacher for 12 years where she taught first grade in Mine Hill and special education preschool in Long Hill until the COVID pandemic hit.

27 Years Of Family, Flavor, Love Continues At Basking Ridge Cafe Rustica

Bernardsville husband and wife duo Giovanni and Theresa Giornalista opened Cafe Rustica in 1998 in Basking Ridge. Now 27 years later, the rustic Italian restaurant and bar continues to bring the community together through delicious food.

Opening the restaurant at 3188 Valley Road came naturally to Giovanni, who grew up in the restaurant business.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.