STREET SMART LEARNING ABOUT VILLAGE HISTORY STAY COOL BEAT THE AUGUST HEAT
DARIA LAVELLE’S
BY MARJORIE RA GGO
dDEAR READERS, August is sizzling, and so is this issue of Ridgewood Magazine! As the summer days linger and the sunsets stretch a little longer, we’ve filled these pages with stories that celebrate our Village’s vibrant spirit and rich tapestry of talent.
This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight local author Daria Lavelle, whose new novel “Afterlife” is generating buzz beyond our borders. Her journey to becoming a published author is equal parts inspiring and heartwarming—and we’re proud to share her story with you. Special thanks to Black Magic Bakehouse, one of Daria’s favorite “haunts” for hosting our photo shoot!
Speaking of great reads, don’t miss our Book Nook section, where we’ve rounded up Ridgewood-connected writers— past and present—whose words have left a mark on the literary world. Take a look—you just might find your next favorite novel was written right around the corner.
Ever wonder how some of our local street names came to be?
From Dayton Street to Godwin Avenue, we’re taking a lighthearted dive into the history behind Ridgewood’s street names—you might learn a thing or two to impress your neighbors at your next block party.
And let’s not forget our furry friends—while we humans are savoring the season, the dog days of summer can be a little “ruff.” Our Q&A is packed with expert advice from VCA Ridgewood Veterinary Hospital to help your pets stay cool, hydrated and happy during the hottest time of year.
So, whether you’re enjoying a lazy afternoon in the hammock or cooling off under the shade at Graydon, we hope this issue keeps you company and leaves you feeling a little more connected to the people, places and pets that make Ridgewood home.
Stay cool out there!
Warmly,
Kris Pepper Editor
Ridgewood MAGAZINE
Publisher Karen Stires
Editor Kris Pepper
Writers
Stacey Antine
Rebecca Bleich
Harris Fleming
Kris Pepper
Lorri Steinbacher
Julia Caramagna
Photographer Adam Paray
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 here in do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
PHOTOGRAPH
Embrace Summer with these August Events
Ridgewood is keeping the schooltime blues at bay with family-friendly entertainment that offers a range of activities for everyone to enjoy. From an outdoor movie night to memorable events that let you reimagine your favorite childhood pastimes, the Village is packed with opportunities to make summer last all month long!
SUPER SIDEWALK SATURDAY
When: Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Where: East Side and West Side throughout Ridgewood
Enjoy a staycation day with the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce. Spend a beautiful summer day outdoors exploring Ridgewood’s streets lined with sales, arts and crafts, music, chalking, face painting, balloons, hula hoop contest and much more! This event is free and is fun for all! Be sure to pick up a map at Memorial Park/Van Neste Square.
For more information, visit https://ridgewoodchamber.com.
SUMMER SING
When: Monday, Aug. 11, 2025 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Where: 113 Cottage Place, Ridgewood
Registration required: Students Free, Adults $10
Get ready to get lost in the music with the Unitarian Society of Ridgewood in a special evening with Pro Arte. Take part in an exclusive performance of Handel’s Coronation Anthems with Dr. Bryan Zaros and Pro Arte singers and friends. Please register via the QR code on the flyer, available on the Ridgewood Chamber website or the Pro Arte Chorale website.
For more information, visit https://ridgewoodchamber.com or www.proartechorale.org.
THREADS OF LOVE BEANIES FOR BABIES
When: Tuesday, August 12, 2025 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m..
Where: Staff Kitchen, Ridgewood Public Library; 125 North Maple Ave.
Registration Required
Pick up your knitting or crochet needles and join the effort to help babies in need. Join the Ridgewood Library to help support their new partners at TEEM to make beanies for babies. This event is open to those with knitting or crochet skills and is not intended for beginners. Beanies will be donated to The GRACE Project in Kisii, Kenya and the Oglala Lakota Tribe, Pine Ridge Reservation, South Dakota. Yarn is provided, but please bring your own needles.
For more information, visit https://ridgewoodlibrary.org/.
ENDLESS SUMMER ADULT CAMP WEEKEND
When: Friday, Aug. 29, 2025 through Monday, Sept. 1, 2025
Where: YMCA Camp Bernie
Registration required; $200 per person/ $180 for Ridgewood YMCA members
Escape the world of bustling schedules and allow yourself to go back to your childhood. Experience a unique chance to enjoy summer camp life with an all-access pass to relive your best experiences with a grown-up twist. This is a special weekend to unplug, let loose and feel like a kid again. You must be 18 to attend and 21 to drink alcoholic beverages.
For more information, visit https://www. ridgewoodymca.org/.
MOVIE IN THE PARK: “THE BATMAN”
When: Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025, 8:15 p.m.
Where: Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, Ridgewood
Gather up the family to watch “The Batman” under the stars with the Ridgewood Guild. This is the last one of the Guild’s summer evening movies. The fun begins when the sun goes down and the stars come out. Be sure to bring a blanket or chair and enjoy a special night.
For more information, visit www.ridgewoodguild.com/.
ADULT CRAFTING: PAPER DOLLS
When: Aug. 23, 2025 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Where: Conference Room, Ridgewood Public Library; 125 North Maple Ave.
Registration Required
Experience a piece of your childhood by making paper dolls with the Ridgewood Library. Participants will have the chance to discover and relive the traditional form of design. Bring in your own paper doll, already made to decorate with a collage or drawing of your own design. Paper doll enthusiasts and fashion illustrators in attendance may share their tips and give a history lesson on design. All are welcome to experience a piece of history and engage in creative play.
For more information, visit https://ridgewoodlibrary.org/.
AARP DRIVER SAFETY
When: Monday, Aug. 25, 2025 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: Pat Mancuso Senior Lounge, Community Center at Village Hall; 131 North Maple Ave.
AARP and the Ridgewood Parks and Recreation come together to offer residents an exclusive chance to refresh their driving skills. This is a six hour class with a 30-minute break for lunch. After completing the course, you may qualify for state/insurance point reductions or discounts on your insurance policy. To sign up, please fill out the form on the Village of Ridgewood website and return it in person or by mail. $20 for AARP members, $25 for non-members.
For more information, contact Deanna at 201.670.5500, Ext. 2301, or visit www.ridgewoodnj.net/.
2025 BATHING SUIT AND GOGGLE DRIVE
When: Through the remainder of the summer
Where: Graydon Pool, The Stable or Village Hall.
The Village of Ridgewood Parks & Recreation Department has partnered with the NJRPA Aquatics Section to present the drive along with the New Jersey Swim Safety Alliance and Dolfin Swimwear.
Sadly, New Jersey loses children each year due to drowning. Swim lessons are an essential component for safety, especially in under-resourced communities—but kids still need suits and goggles!
Lend a hand by donating new, unused boys’ or girls’ bathing suits and goggles at the following drop-off locations: Graydon Pool, The Stable or Village Hall.
Rebecca Bleich is a recent graduate of Ramapo College, where she majored in journalism and writing.
Stay Cool, Be Smart
BY STACEY ANTINE, MS, RDN
SUMMER IS THE PERFECT season for outdoor adventures— think biking, hiking, swimming and endless backyard games. But as the temperatures rise and activity levels soar, staying hydrated becomes more crucial than ever, especially for kids and older adults.
Remember: if you’re feeling thirsty, your body is already dehydrated! Instead of reaching for sugary sports drinks packed with artificial colors and additives, try these simple, natural ways to keep your energy up and your body cool.
HYDRATION THE HEALTHY WAY
1. Water, Always: Carry a reusable water bottle with you everywhere—and sip throughout the day. Aim to refill it at least three to four times daily. Consistent hydration supports energy, focus, digestion and even mood.
2. Infuse for Fun: If plain water feels a little boring, spice it up! Add slices of lemon, lime, cucumber or fresh berries for a refreshing,
flavorful twist—without any added sugar.
3. Blend It Up: After a long hike or an intense play session, your body needs both hydration and recovery fuel. Try a smoothie made with Greek yogurt, bananas, berries and a splash of orange juice for a refreshing treat. It’s a tasty, natural source of protein, potassium and antioxidants.
4. Eat Your Water: Fruits and vegetables are loaded with water, so make sure they’re
Top hydration tips for summer wellness.
a big part of your daily routine. Crunch on at least five cups of raw produce each day—think cucumbers, bell peppers, strawberries, watermelon and leafy greens.
5. Add a Pinch of Sea Salt: Here’s a smart tip: a little sea salt on fruits or veggies can actually help your body absorb water more efficiently. Why? Because water follows salt at the cellular level—just another reason to season!
RECIPE
SPOTLIGHT: Hydration Salad
Ditch the sports drinks and fuel your body with this delicious, water-packed Hydration Salad—featured in my book “Appetite for Life” (HarperOne). It’s bursting with vitamins A and C and stays fresh in the fridge for up to four days, thanks to a splash of lime juice. It’s perfect for beach days, post-practice snacks or back-to-school lunchboxes.
INGREDIENTS
• ½ medium honeydew melon, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
• ½ medium cantaloupe, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
• ½ small seedless cucumber, unpeeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
• Juice from 1 lime
• 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
INSTRUCTIONS
1. In a large bowl, combine melons and cucumber. Add lime juice and salt and toss to mix well.
2. Serve in bowls or large cups to go.
Makes 8 servings (1 cup per serving).
Nutrition Facts per serving: 45 calories; 0g fat, 0mg cholesterol; 12g carbohydrate (1g fiber, 10g sugar); 1g protein; 35mg sodium; 25% Daily Value (DV) vitamin A; 50% DV vitamin C; 2% DV iron.
Stay active, eat well and drink up—because a hydrated body is a happy, healthy one!
Stacey Antine, MS, RDN, is the founder of Ridgewood’s HealthBarn USA and author of “Appetite for Life.” She is a national expert in family nutrition and has appeared on the Rachael Ray Show, CNN, PBSTV and hundreds of broadcast, print and social channels.
A Street by Any Other Name…
Ridgewood’s well-traveled roads may be familiar, but the story behind their names is where things get interesting.
BY HARRIS FLEMING
YYOU DRIVE downhill along Godwin Avenue, stop at the light on Lincoln Avenue and turn left on South Monroe Street. Then, you pass Washington Place on your right and Varian Fry Way on your left. Congratulations! You’ve found the shortest route from the southern Midland Park border to the Woman’s Club of Ridgewood Woman’s Club and gotten a brief jaunt through Ridgewood (and American) history without cracking open a book.
You can recite the names of these and other roads without a thought, but who are all the people they’re named for? Some are obvious. Others may
surprise you.
For example, the aforementioned Lincoln Avenue, South (and North) Monroe Street and Washington Place were all named for the U.S. presidents you likely imagined. And if you guessed Franklin Avenue was named after a prominent leader from Colonial days, you’d be right. Probably not the one you thought, though.
No, Franklin Avenue (originally Franklin Turnpike) was not named after Founding Father Benjamin Franklin. However, Ben was the actual father of William Franklin, the Royal Governor of New Jersey for
whom the road was named before the first musket ball of the American Revolution was ever fired. According to Revolutionary War New Jersey, the son of one of America’s original patriots served, and remained loyal to, the crown throughout his life. His refusal to support the Colonists caused a rift from which the relationship between father and son never recovered.
Many other namesakes might be revelations to you, as well. A bonafide O.G. patriot and a hero of the Holocaust are among them. Let’s start from the beginning, literally.
VAN EMBURGH AVENUE
Though he did not hold a lofty government office like William Franklin, in a sense you could say that Johannes Van Emburgh was the patriarch of Ridgewood’s first family. As noted in the History of the Village of Ridgewood, Van Emburgh recognized the value of a plot of land in the village before there was even a village. He bought 250 acres in 1698, and, two years later, erected the first home in what later became Ridgewood.
GODWIN AVENUE
Before Ridgewood was Ridgewood, the National Historic Database tells us, it was called Godwinville. Both the later-renamed town and the current Godwin Avenue were named for Abraham Godwin, an
honest-to-goodness patriot who played an important role in New Jersey and early U.S. history.
Born in 1763, young Godwin served as a fifer and, ultimately, a fife major in George Washington’s Continental Army. As the war wound down, he became an engraving apprentice and, later, a surveyor.
It was in the latter role that he worked under Alexander Hamilton to assess the viability of building manufacturing facilities around the Passaic Falls—better known today as the Paterson Great Falls. With time as a boy soldier and a regional pioneer on his resumé, it’s no surprise that his fellow citizens elected Godwin to the New Jersey General Assembly, where he served from 1802 to 1806. In that role, he
voted on legislation to gradually end slavery in the Garden State. World events wouldn’t allow him to settle into private life for very long after he left the legislature. When conflict with Britain arose again, Godwin answered the call and led soldiers into battle as a brigadier general in the War of 1812.
According to the National Historical Marker Database, Abraham Godwin “passed to the greater life” in 1855 after leaving an indelible mark on the community. Besides Godwin Avenue, a marker bearing his likeness and the inscription “Soldier, Statesman, artist, poet, engraver, musician and gracious host” still stands at the corner of East Ridgewood Avenue and Van Neste Square.
Opposite page: Abraham Godwin monument
ACKERMAN AVENUE
The history of Ackerman Avenue is a bit murky, though not for any scandalous reasons. There are simply too many related early Ridgewood families to be certain which one is the namesake.
The most likely candidate may be early Bergen County politician John Ackerman, who the Washington Township website points to as the first elected leader in its history. (Ridgewood was part of a larger area in the early days, encompassing parts of Washington Township, Paramus, Midland Parkand other neighboring towns.)
The Ackerman–Van Emburgh House, so named because it was built by John Ackerman in 1785 and later owned by the Van Emburgh family, sits on East Glen Avenue. Two abodes known as the Ackerman House, according to
Images of America: Ridgewood, exist on what is now Doremus Avenue and Lincoln Avenue. They were built in 1787 and 1810, respectively, by Ackerman’s descendants.
DAYTON STREET
Clearly, there’s some crosspollination in the origins of Ridgewood streets. So, it is with Dayton Street, which can serve as a nexus of Ridgewood landmarks.
According to a Brief History of Ridgewood, in 1853 the expansive Van Emburgh estate was divided up for sale into smaller tracts. One was snapped up by Samuel Dayton, who wanted to trade New York City life for one of a “country” farmer. Ultimately, he broke up his own plot into smaller chunks, selling some to sons-in-law Benjamin Franklin Robinson and Samuel Graydon (remember that name!), who established their own estates.
GRAYDON TERRACE
While Graydon Terrace may be prized for its leafy environs and charming homes, it’s overshadowed in name by Graydon Pool. Both are named for Samuel Graydon, grandson of the Samuel Dayton who bought property on the Van Emburgh estate.
According to a Brief History of Ridgewood, it was Graydon’s idea while head of the Shade Tree Commission to create a park and swimming hole by damming off part of the Ho-HoKus Brook. The pool cost $23,000 to construct and opened in 1929.
VARIAN FRY WAY
Finally, let’s fast-forward to the honorary name of a portion of South Monroe Street. Ridgewood dedicated Varian Fry Way in 2005 to honor Varian Fry, within sight of George Washington Middle School and West Side Presbyterian Church, both of which Fry attended early in the 20th century. As noted in Ridgewood History, during World War II, Fry devised a plot to help roughly 2,000 Jewish and non-Jewish artists, writers, philosophers and families escape Nazi-controlled France at the height of the Holocaust.
In 1994, nearly 30 years after his death at age 60, Fry was granted the title Righteous Among Nations by the Holocaust Martyrs’ and Heroes’ Remembrance Authority in Jerusalem.
From first families to Founding Fathers and right up through a 20th century international humanitarian, there’s a literal roadmap of history winding through your town. You can find all this information and more at the Bolger Heritage Center at the Ridgewood Public Library. Visit their website at https://localhistory. ridgewoodlibrary.org.
Harris Fleming is a freelance writer who resides in Waldwick with his wife (a Ridgewood school teacher) and teenage son. He grew up in Ridgewood, but there are no Village roads named in his honor to date.
From Ridgewood to the Afterlife
Take a look at Daria Lavelle’s enchanting debut as a novelist.
BY KRIS PEPPER
SSTOP IN AT A local Ridgewood coffee house, and you may see Daria Lavelle hunkered down behind her laptop, working on her latest novel.
This Village resident has recently captured the imagination of readers everywhere with her debut novel, “Aftertaste.” This spellbinding and supernatural tale explores loss and grief from an unexpected angle: the emotional impact of memories built around sharing food with the people we love. This evocative read balances a poignant love story with the inexplicable mysteries of the afterlife, featuring an array of ghosts and a curious menu of memories, all set against the backdrop of the New York City culinary scene.
Born in Kyiv, Ukraine, Lavelle and her family emigrated to the United States when she was just two years old. After several years in New York, the family settled in Fair Lawn. Her love of books began early, leading her to earn a degree in comparative literature and a certificate in creative
Opposite: Daria working at Black Magic Bakehouse. This page: Daria with the U.K. edition of “Aftertaste” at an influencer event in London.
writing from Princeton before pursuing her Master of Fine Arts at Sarah Lawrence College. The journey to the publication of her book was on a slow burner for a time—much like the dishes in her story—until the flavors were just right.
“The idea first came to me in 2013,” she explains, recalling a vivid writing session. I had a day job in advertising, and after work, I’d go to a café to write. I saw this fully formed scene in my mind: a man plating a dish in a Hell’s Kitchen apartment and a beautiful, glittering ghost coming through the
wall to eat the meal. It captivated me.”
It was a moment that stuck with her. Though she tucked the scene away in her mind, it lingered, resurfacing in fragments until the whole story began to take shape. Years later, when she pursued her MFA with a focus on speculative fiction—while simultaneously raising a young family—she started writing “Aftertaste” in earnest. “I entered the program when my kids were one,” she says. “I was determined to leave it with a manuscript I could put out into the world.”
Selfie with the crowd at Bookends.
The result is a novel that defies easy categorization. “It’s part love story, part ghost story, part food story,” Lavelle says. “It’s magical realism, or speculative fiction, where the world is familiar, but something extraordinary seeps into everyday life.”
Readers meet Kostya, a gifted young chef whose culinary creations hold the uncanny ability to bridge the gap between life and death. As his kitchen skills develop, and Kostya continues to explore the paranormal, he fails to realize the catastrophe looming in the afterlife—and the one person who tries to stop him is also falling in love with him.
Lavelle credits her love of fairytales and myths as formative influences.
“I’ve always been obsessed with folklore about the afterlife,” she says. “Greek myths like Hades and Persephone, Orpheus and Eurydice—they shaped the way I think about love, longing and what lingers.”
The book’s title, “Aftertaste,” is perfectly apt. Each chapter lingers long after the final page is turned, and readers have written to Lavelle, sharing how the story helped them process their own grief or remember a loved one through the sensory memories of a shared meal.
“That’s been the most rewarding part,” she says. “To know that something I imagined could be that meaningful to someone else.”
Top: Ready for an event at Dear Reader in Wyckoff.
Bottom: Daria reading at an influencer event hosted by Bloomsbury in London.
Though the novel deals with heavy themes, it’s also buoyed by Lavelle’s innate sense of humor and her talent for snappy, heartfelt dialogue. “I tend toward comedy and whimsy in my outlook on life,” she laughs. “There are lines in ‘Aftertaste’ that still make me laugh, even after reading them hundreds of times.”
“I’ve known since I was 15 that I wanted to be a writer,” Lavelle says. “Back then, books were having these huge cultural moments—“Harry Potter,” “Twilight,” “The Hunger Games.” Midnight release parties, themed food, games, people lining up at bookstores—it was exciting to see fiction have that kind of power. I wanted to be part of that world.”
Now, she is. Following the release of “Aftertaste,” Lavelle had the chance to celebrate with a book signing at
Bookends bookstore in downtown Ridgewood. “It was incredible,” she says. “The support from this community—from the Newcomers Club to my mom friends at school— has been overwhelming in the best way.” She’s also traveled across the U.S. and to the U.K. to promote the book, with her publisher connecting her to enthusiastic bookstores and readers along the way.
True to form, much of “Aftertaste” was written and edited in Ridgewood’s many coffee shops and cafés. “I do my best thinking in the ambient noise of a coffee shop,” she smiles. “We’re so lucky to have so many great ones here.” (Editor’s note: We interviewed and photographed Daria at Black Magic Bakehouse on the west side of town— and yes, it was mouthwatering!)
Lavelle lives in Ridgewood with her
family and is already hard at work on her second novel. “It’s still early, but this one is set in San Francisco in 1899, just after the Gold Rush,” she says. “It’s a magical realism love story about a woman who falls in love with a sailor on an enchanted ship. It’s about how long you’d wait for love—if it were the right person.”
Her stories may be touched with magic, but Lavelle’s journey is grounded in discipline, heart and a deep reverence for the emotional power of storytelling. As her star rises, Ridgewood can take pride in being home to a writer whose imagination brings speculative fiction—and all its wonder and mystery—vividly to life.
“Aftertaste” is available wherever books are sold, and personalized and signed copies are available through Bookends. For more information, visit darialavelle.com.
– Trish Manzo
The Dog Days of August
VCA Ridgewood Veterinary Hospital’s shares tips to ensure a tail-wagging summer.
BY KRIS PEPPER
INTERVIEW WITH DR. JOANNE HEALEY, MEDICAL DIRECTOR, AND MARILYN FARRAR-WAGNER, HOSPITAL MANAGER, AT VCA
IN 1982, DR. DEAN CERF continued the tradition of veterinary care established 150 years ago by the Hopper family by developing the practice into the respected hospital it is today. Cerf has since retired, but the VCA Ridgewood Veterinary Hospital continues his commitment to helping pets and the people who love them by combining the highest quality of medicine, technology and service provided by the caring staff. We spoke to Dr. Joanne Healey, medical director, and Marilyn Farrar-Wagner, hospital manager, who has been with the practice for over 40 years. Want more tips on pet care? Visit vcahospitals. com/ridgewood for more information.
RIDGEWOOD
What are the signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke in pets?
Typical signs include panting, lethargy, red gums, drooling, increased heart rate and collapse.
How can pet owners safely exercise their pets during hot weather?
Use good judgment. Don’t go out at noon when it’s 101 degrees. Go out early or later in the evening, and take it easy. Stop if you see any of the above signs.
Are there particular breeds or types of pets that are more vulnerable to heat? Brachycephalic dogs are much more susceptible (those with flat noses). It’s
harder for them to breathe normally, so don’t stress them out, especially in the heat.
Top tips for keeping pets cool during a heatwave?
To keep cool, do what you do. Stay in the air conditioning or go swimming. That doesn’t mean throw the ball in the water a dozen times. Your dog is still getting hot, and swallowing pool water is very dangerous.
Is it ever ok to shave a dog or cat to help them stay cool, or is that a myth?
If you shave a dog or cat, you take away nature’s sun protection. You’ll need to watch out for sunburn.
How important is hydration in the summer?
How can owners encourage pets to drink more water? Are there foods or treats that can help pets stay hydrated or cool?
Drinking is extremely important. Always have plenty of fresh water available for your pets. Remember, they dehydrate quickly, so you won’t necessarily need to take them outside more often just because they are drinking more. If your dog won’t drink, try a flavored water for dogs. Royal Canin makes an additive that tastes good and is healthy for their teeth, too!
If your pet gets too excited and you need to encourage him to relax, try a dental treat. They tend to take longer to eat.
What precautions should be taken when walking pets on hot pavement?
If the pavement is too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Walk in the grass, and hose down your driveway. Do whatever you need to do to protect their tender paws.
What’s your take on leaving pets in parked cars, even with the windows cracked?
NEVER leave a pet in a parked car—even with the windows open! We all know what it’s like when we get into a car before the air conditioning is on—triple that feeling. Children and pets die every year in hot cars.
Any extra tips for cat owners?
There is a threat of Bird Flu over the summer months. There are many outdoor dangers to cats, but cats that eat birds infected with Bird Flu are most at risk. Bird Flu starts as an upper respiratory infection and can result in seizures with poor outcomes. Keep them inside!
One more piece of advice…
Enjoy your pet, but choose what you do and where you go wisely. Life is short, and it’s shorter for pets. Enjoy them while you have them, and educate yourself about the summer threats so you can have them longer!
Opposite page: (From left) Dr. Joanne Healey, medical director, Dr. John Carroll, associate veterinarian, Marilyn FarrarWagner, hospital manager, Jacob Berrocal, veterinary assistant (leaving for Veterinary school in September) and Steven Strauss, assistant manager.
This page: Shadae Matias, veterinary technician, with Dr. Healey and “Coco,” an adorable dachshund.
Village Brews
Whether you’re in need of a morning pick-me-up, a cozy spot to catch up with a friend or a quiet corner to work with a latte in hand, Ridgewood has no shortage of charming coffee houses to explore.
BY JULIA CARAMAGNA
FROM LOCALLY ROASTED brews to perfectly poured cappuccinos, each café brings its own flavor and personality to the village. Here’s a roundup of some of our favorite places to sip, savor and stay awhile.
Tatte Bakery & Cafe
222 E. Ridgewood Ave. @tattebakery on Instagram
Founded in Massachusetts, Tatte expanded its locations to Ridgewood earlier this May and offers a variety of tea lattes and juices.
Sook Pastry
24 S. Broad St. www.sookpastry.com
The home of French pastries, cakes, sandwiches, soups, quiches, coffees and more.
Pierre & Michel Authentic French Bakery
38 E. Ridgewood Ave. @pierre_michel_bakery
Pierre & Michel’s pastries and cakes are handmade using traditional French methods with ingredients imported from France.
Zen Haus Cafe
9 S. Broad St. @thehauscafe
Zen Haus offers multiple different vegan options and their own “press’d juices.”
Rey Sol Coffee
22 Chestnut St. www.reysolcoffee.com
From the mountains of their family farm straight to your cup, Rey Sol Coffee delivers only the highest quality Colombian coffee roasted fresh in their café weekly.
American Bulldog Coffee Roasters
31 N. Broad St., W. Ridgewood Ave. www.americanbulldogcoffeeroasters.com
Stop by for freshly roasted coffee, organic baked goods and a cozy atmosphere perfect for catching up or getting work done.
Ridgewood Coffee Company
133 E. Ridgewood Ave. @ridgewoodcoffeecompany
Meet friends for brunch and a cup of coffee that’s crafted to perfection.
Blue Ridge Cafe
37 E. Ridgewood Ave. @blueridgecafenj
Relax and unwind with Blue Ridge Cafe’s popular Pistachio & Rose Matcha Latte!
Ridgewood Station Cafe
1 E. Ridgewood Ave. www.ridgewoodstationcafe.com
Enjoy Turkish-style breakfast and brunch specialties featuring locally sourced ingredients.
New Players Take the Spotlight at the Foxy Awards
Ridgewood High School’s theatrical organization gets eight nominations and brings home two awards.
RIDGEWOOD HIGH SCHOOL’S
New Players shine at the Foxy Awards, Securing Best Actress and Outstanding Production Wins for “The Wolves.”
The Ridgewood High School New Players, an award-winning theatrical organization dedicated to fostering a love for theatre and developing the talents of aspiring young performers and technicians, garnered an impressive eight nominations at the Montclair Theatre Night Foxy Awards on May 16.
The New Players’ highly acclaimed production of “The Wolves” by Sarah DeLappe ultimately clinched two of the night’s most coveted honors: Best Actress and Outstanding Production of a Play.
Rising star Mary Ann Wright was honored with the Best Actress award for her compelling performance. Her portrayal captivated audiences and judges alike, solidifying her status as a standout talent in high school theatre.
The cast
In a testament to the collective efforts of the cast, crew and artistic team, Director Kelly Van Zile was awarded Outstanding Production of a Play. This significant win celebrates the exceptional quality, artistic vision and collaborative spirit that brought “The Wolves” to life on stage.
“We are absolutely thrilled and incredibly proud of the recognition ‘The Wolves’ has received at the Foxy Awards,” says Van Zile. “To be nominated in eight categories was already a tremendous honor, and to win Best Actress for Mary Ann Wright and Outstanding Production of a
Bottom: Members of the cast surround fellow castmate and RHS student Mary Ann Wright (left) who won the Best Actress award and Director Kelly Van Zile who won the award for Outstanding Production of a Play at the Foxy Awards event at Montclair University.
Play is a true testament to the hard work, passion and talent of every single student involved. These awards are a wonderful acknowledgment of the dedication and artistry that define Ridgewood High School New Players.” Through a diverse range of productions, New Players provides students with hands-on experience in all aspects of theatre, from acting and directing to technical design and stage management. Its success at this year’s awards further solidifies the program’s reputation as a leading force in high school theatre.
Show advertisement for the RHS Production of “The Wolves,” which won two Foxy Awards at Montclair State University for Best Actress and Outstanding Production of a Play.
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of the RHS New Players production of “The Wolves.” RHS student Mary Ann Wright (sitting, second from right) won the Best Actress award and Director Kelly Van Zile won the award for Outstanding Production of a Play at the Foxy Awards event at Montclair University.
A Winner on National History Day
Kathryn Shin, a freshman at Ridgewood High prepares to move on to national competition after winning first place at New Jersey National History Day at William Paterson University.
KATHRYN SHIN’S AWARD winning exhibit, The Capitol Crawl: A Climb Towards Equality and Inclusion for Disabled, earned her a spot at the NHD competition in Washington, D.C. In addition to advancing to nationals, Kathryn has been nominated to represent New Jersey at the prestigious NHD Exhibit showcase hosted by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.
“Studying the Capitol Crawl and getting to interview key figures from the protest has taught me that the present is shaped by a much more
complex and personal history than what textbooks usually show,” says Kathryn. “One of the most impactful lessons I learned is that every disability rights activist involved in the protest had their own unique reasons and goals. People joined for different reasons, including the fight for accessibility, education rights and the desire to finally be heard.”
Kathryn’s project stood out not only for its historical insight and compelling design but also for its depth of research and personal engagement. She interviewed disability rights activist
Jennifer Keelan-Chaffins, one of the key figures involved in the 1990 Capitol Crawl protest and even learned Braille to enhance the accessibility of her exhibit. National History Day (NHD) is a year-long academic program that encourages middle and high school students to conduct original research on historical topics of interest. Participants express their findings through exhibits, documentaries, papers, websites and performances. The program culminates in local, state and national competitions. This year’s theme is Rights & Responsibilities in History.
Kathryn Shin with her first place medal.
BOOK NOOK
Read Local
Enjoy summer reads by authors from your own backyard!
OUR TOWN HAS nurtured a remarkably diverse crop of literary talent, from bestselling thriller writers to National Book Award finalists. If you’re looking for your next great read and want to keep it local, here are a few standout books from authors with Ridgewood roots or connections. (Editor’s Note: Be sure to check out our story on Daria Lavelle in this issue, and take a look back at our feature on Neal Lipschutz in May 2025!)
NOTHING TO ENVY: ORDINARY LIVES IN NORTH KOREA
by Barbara Demick
A former Ridgewood resident and award-winning journalist, Demick pulls back the curtain on daily life in North Korea through the real stories of six defectors.
THE UNSPEAKABLE: AND OTHER SUBJECTS OF DISCUSSION
by Meghan
Daum
Daum, who grew up in Ridgewood, doesn’t shy away from life’s messy, complicated questions. This essay collection tackles motherhood, aging and authenticity with humor and emotional depth.
THE BOY FROM THE WOODS
by Harlan Coben
While we breathlessly await “Gone Before Goodbye,” Coben’s upcoming thriller co-written with Hollywood’s own Reese Witherspoon and out in
BY LORRI STEINBACHER
October, why not revisit a classic from the reigning king of suburban suspense? In “The Boy from the Woods,” a mysterious man with a shadowy past is drawn into the search for a missing teen. Honestly, who could pick just one favorite Coben book?
LOVE AND OTHER IMPOSSIBLE PURSUITS / BAD MOTHER: A CHRONICLE OF MATERNAL CRIMES, MINOR CALAMITIES AND OCCASIONAL MOMENTS OF GRACE by Ayelet Waldman
Waldman, who spent her early years in Ridgewood, is as sharp as she is tender. “Love and Other Impossible Pursuits” explores grief and step-parenting in a smart, emotionally layered novel. For nonfiction fans, “Bad Mother” is a look at the impossible standards women face and what it really means to be a “good enough” mother.
DOES SHE HAVE A NAME? by Ruth Reichl
Ridgewood poet George Witte writes with quiet power about memory, faith and family.
NATIVE SPEAKER by Chang-Rae Lee
This acclaimed debut from former Ridgewood resident Chang-Rae Lee follows a Korean-American spy grappling with identity and alienation. This book is part literary thriller, part
meditation on assimilation.
INFINITE COUNTRY by Patricia Engel
Engel, a Ridgewood High School class of ’95 graduate, brings heart and urgency to this novel about a Colombian family navigating immigration, identity and love.
NO WRITE WAY TO
DIE
by Neal Lipschutz
Scott Morgan’s carefully crafted life—one he had worked hard to insulate from the sort of tumult he had experienced growing up—is upended when a murder victim is found in his daughter’s Manhattan apartment, and Scott and his loved ones become prime suspects.
AFTERTASTE
by Daria Lavelle
Ridgewood resident Daria Lavelle delivers a delectable debut with “Aftertaste,” a genre-blending novel about a chef who can summon ghosts through their favorite foods, offering diners one last taste of connection. But when his culinary gift threatens the afterlife itself, love may be his undoing.
Lorri Steinbacher is the Director of the Ridgewood Public Library and facilitator of the Book Circle and Cover 2 Cover book groups at the library.
Have a great image for Photo Op? Submit your high-resolution shot to editor@ridgewoodmag.com.
PHOTO OP
THIS DOE-EYED beauty was captured observing walkers and runners at the Ridgewood Duck Pond.
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