The Week in Review: August 16-22

Hi all! I'm just wrapping up my first week here as the editor of Ridgewood Patch. I've had a great time meeting the Ridgewood community. I want to thank the members of the Village government, as well as the business community and citizens of Ridgewood for their warm welcome. It's been a pleasure thus far and I'm excited to be in the position to report the news and showcase all that's going on in this great village.

Let's now take a look at some of the things that happened in Ridgewood this week.

Monday:

I kicked off the week with a note introducing myself and the second chapter of Ridgewood Patch.

Liz Wagner took a look at some of the Valley Hospital Sports Institute and their plan to use advanced concussion tests to better treat head injuries youth athletes suffer.

Sabrina Steyling profiled two artists with exhibits in Ridgewood this month.

Tuesday:

Sam reflected back on the start and future of Patch as we hit our centennial–our 100th site in Morristown, NJ.

Sam and I then published an article introducing Elizabeth Moreland to the Ridgewood community. Moreland will be taking over as Assistant Principal at George Washington Middle School.

In the big government story of the week, Sam investigated a(nother) possible conflict of interest from a governing board member; Lynne Brady had filed variance applications for clients to the Zoning Board in March, which appears to be a conflict of interest as she's a member of the historic committee. A 1996 resolution forbids governing board members to present applications to boards. The Village would not comment on the matter.

Don Smith then wrapped up a busy and bold Tuesday with a look at the fascinating history of The Hermitage during the Revolutionary War and how it's connected to arts and crafts today.

Wednesday:

Valley Hospital is catching the natural birth wave with their Holistic Birth Program, the only one of its kind in the area. The program was created to provide women with an alternative to pain medications, and a lengthy confinement in bed while "providing a positive atmosphere to deliver a baby," all without additional cost.

The Planning Board entertained the idea of possibly re-zoning what was once slated to be the Baker Housing property on Paramus Road, abutting Rt. 17. A representative of the property owner wanted to hear the board's thoughts on re-zoning the area from single-family residential to "highway commercial."

DoubleTake, a new consignment boutique will be coming to Ridgewood next month, and they'll be offering up deals on designer clothes for less. You can also sell off your high-end "rags" when they open at 189 E. Ridgewood Avenue.

Thursday:

We introduced our new column by Realtor Ron Pruiksma––to Patch readers on Thursday morning. Ron will be writing articles about all things real estate in Ridgewood. Have a question (any question!) on real estate or a future topic he should discuss? Ask Ron and he'll answer!

The police had a busy week, and we took a look at some of the incidents they responded to.

Westfield Editor John Celock spent a day with the National Guard and discussed his experiences. Definitely worth a read.

Friday:

Gloria Johnson wondered if what's called extra-virgin olive oil actually is extra virgin olive oil. Her findings? They're not. Take a look at how some of the leading brands did.

The Little Flower Shoppe and it was a big success. Some of the top wedding professionals were there to offer advice and insider tips on how to make that special day absolutely perfect. Videographer Nilsa De la Cruz shot a great video; any bride (or groom!) to be should see it.

Folk duo Maryn & Phil played some classic tunes at the Ben and Jerry's on Thursday night. Patch contributor Karen Kleimann (yes, my twin sister) shot a nice video. The two musicians (and ministers–really!) also discussed what music means to them.

The fire department is looking for volunteers to assist members of the Ridgewood Fire Department. Anyone interested should contact the RFD.

We also redesigned our homepage here at Patch. I threw up a helpful guide on how to get the most out of the new and improved homepage.

Saturday:

After finding inspiration in "Cortez the Killer," DC Stein explored how to rebuild one's life after incredible loss.

We took a look at some of the open house showings in Ridgewood this weekend. If you're quick you can still catch some on this rainy Sunday in Ridgewood. There's no shortage of homes to see –with 23 on Sunday.

Sunday:

Lori Sender wondered in her 'Maybe Chronicles' column if we're too attached to our kids.