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Ridgewood November 2026

& HO-HO-KUS GATHERING IN GRATITUDE THE ELDER DINNER RETURNS

SWEET SUCCESS AT THE MILKSHAKE FACTORY

A New

Vision

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201.906.9138 MM201.906.9138 O 551.284.0175 M 201.913.6589 O 551.284.0175 M 201.913.6589 ® Realtor Sales Associate, CNE, PSA Licensed R.E. Salesperson Licensed R.E. Salesperson, CNE O 551.284.0175 M551.284.0175 201.906.9138 tara.briganti@compass.com O 551.284.0175 O 551.284.0175 201.913.6589 tara.briganti@compass.com OM551.284.0175 OO551.284.0175 tara.briganti@compass.com O 551.284.0175 Licensed as Jennifer J. Donovan jennifer.donovan@compass.com M 917.796.8743 Licensed as Margaret A. Marino O 551.284.0175 peggy.marino@compass.com tara.briganti@compass.com O 551.284.0175 jennifer.donovan@compass.com peggy.marino@compass.com jennifer.donovan@compass.com peggy.marino@compass.com M 201.906.9138 O 551.284.0175 Mpeggy.marino@compass.com 201.913.6589 Jennifer Donovan, Peggy Marino, and Tara Briganti are licensed real estate salsepersons affiliated with jennifer.donovan@compass.com Compass, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material Jennifer Donovan, Peggy Marino, and Briganti licensed real estate salsepersons affiliated with Compass,a alicensed licensedreal realestate estatebroker brokerand and abides abides by by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All Jennifer Donovan, Peggy Marino, and TaraTara Briganti are are licensed estate salsepersons with Compass, Opportunity Allmaterial material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only.real Information is compiled affiliated from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in Housing price, condition, sale, laws. or withdrawal without O 551.284.0175 tara.briganti@compass.com O 551.284.0175 Jennifer Donovan, Marino, and Tara Briganti areonly. licensed real estate salsepersons affiliated with Compass, a is licensed real estate broker andchanges abides by Housing Opportunity laws. Allwithout material presented herein is Peggy intended for informational purposes Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but issubject subject toerrors, errors,omissions, omissions, changes in Equal price, condition, sale, presented herein intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but in price, condition, sale,or orwithdrawal withdrawal without notice. This isis not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may nottoreflect actual property conditions. presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions. notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions. jennifer.donovan@compass.com peggy.marino@compass.com notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

Jennifer Donovan, Peggy Marino, and Tara Briganti are licensed real estate salsepersons affiliated with Compass, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

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Contents NOVEMBER 2026

F EATU RES

A New Vision

The newly formed Ridgewood Business Alliance is taking a strategic, data-driven approach to helping the Village’s 750 businesses thrive.

Gathering in Gratitude Ridgewood’s annual Elder Dinner brings community, connection, and Thanksgiving traditions to the table.

For MilkShake Factory franchise owners Penn and Tara Miller-Jones, family and the future are top of mind.

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Sweet Success

I N TH I S I S SU E

EDITOR’S NOTE Welcoming November

LOCAL FUN Fall Fun

LIVING WELL Who Is at Your Table?

Q&A With George Peyrouton

HOME FRONT Sticky Toffee Pumpkin Pudding

DINING GUIDE Bites and Delights

BOOK NOOK Pass the Dysfunction, Please

PHOTO OP Fall Feelings

COVER

Executive Director Steve Grillo and Marketing Director Corinne Mahoney of the Ridgewood Business Alliance Photograph by Adam Paray

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E DITOR’S NOTE

Ridgewood

& HO-HO-KUS

PHOTOGRAPH BY MARJORIE RAGGO

NOVEMBER HAS A way of reminding us what matters most. As the holiday season begins, we naturally turn our attention to the families, friends, and our surrounding communities. With that in mind, we made a point of covering Ridgewood’s Annual Elder Dinner. What a heartwarming opportunity for residents to connect through volunteerism, a nutritious meal, and a shared sense of community! This month, we’re especially excited to introduce the Ridgewood Business Alliance and highlight its new role in helping local businesses thrive and keeping our downtown beautiful and inviting. This one is a must-read for every resident who values our vibrant business district! Do you have a sweet tooth? We visited the MilkShake Factory, a new business bringing new energy, delicious treats, and a touch of sweetness to our local scene.

This month’s Q&A features a compelling interview with 19-yearold podcaster George Peyrouton, who interviews fascinating individuals from around the world and shares their unique stories. Take a look at his podcast lineup. You’ll be surprised who this young man has been speaking with lately! This season of thankfulness is also an opportunity to recognize the local business sponsors who make this magazine possible. Their partnership allows us to continue sharing the stories, people, and events that make Ridgewood and Ho-Ho-Kus special month after month. We encourage our readers to support these businesses whenever possible because they are truly invested in our communities. On behalf of everyone at Ridgewood and Ho-Ho-Kus magazine, thank you for welcoming us into your homes. We wish you and your loved ones a happy Thanksgiving and a season filled with gratitude and warmth. Warm regards,

Publisher Karen Stires karen.stires@wainscotmedia.com Editor Kris Pepper Writers Alix Newton Courtney Marie Baldovin Kris Pepper Rebecca Bleich Stacey Antine, RD Lorri Steinbacher Photographer Adam Paray WAINSCOT MEDIA Chairman Carroll V. Dowden President and CEO Mark Dowden SVP, Group Publisher 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 Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden

Kris Pepper

Editor editor@ridgewoodmag.com ridgewoodmag.com @ridgewoodmag

Ridgewood Magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Ridgewood and Ho-Ho-Kus, 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 2026 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

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LO CAL FU N

Your Fall Bucket List Celebrate November with family-friendly historical events, creative fall and cozy crafting, and community-centered gatherings. BY REBECCA BLEICH

BERGEN COUNTY CASA STAND UP FOR FOSTER KIDS When: Friday, Nov. 13, 2026; 6:30 p.m. Where: The Women’s Club of Ridgewood, 215 West Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood Tickets are $65 each; VIP seat tickets available Looking for a fun night out that also gives back? Join Bergen CASA’s first-ever comedy fundraiser. With a night full of laughter and fun, the funds go to foster children in Bergen County, helping to ensure every child has a voice. For more information, visit bergencasa.org/standup-for-foster-kids.

AMERICA AT 250 TABLING ROSENCRANTZ STYLE

When: Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026; 7:30 p.m.

When: Sunday, Nov. 8, 2026; 2 p.m.

Where: West Side Presbyterian Church, 6 South Monroe Street, Ridgewood

Where: The Hermitage; 335 North Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus $40 per ticket for members and $50 per ticket for nonmembers Learn how to create a historical table setting at the Hermitage. Get the experience of learning about the art of Victorian entertaining, table setting, and receiving guests. Refreshments will be served along with treats from the upcoming Heritage recipe book. Come join the Hermitage for an afternoon full of history and fun! For more information, visit thehermitage.org.

Adults are $35 or $30 for adults with disabilities. Students with ID are $15. Children under 12 are free. Ars Musica Chorale kicks off its 2026 to 2027 season with a first-time collaboration with the North Jersey Concert Band for a concert of music celebrating the greatest American composers. The centerpiece of this collaboration lies with Howard Hanson’s “Song of Democracy,” a beautiful masterwork written for the unusual scoring of concert wind band and chorus. Using Walt Whitman’s poem of the same name, Hanson sets the text with rich harmonies and clear text to showcase the optimism found in Whitman’s words. Other works will feature other American genres, including spirituals, folk songs, jazz, and shape-note singing. Come join us for this celebration of America’s musical history! For more information, visit arsmusica.org.

VETERANS DAY SERVICE When: Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026; 11 a.m. Where: Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, Ridgewood Join the Village of Ridgewood in its annual Veterans Day Service to honor all veterans of the community and across the country who served in our nation’s armed forces. For more information, visit ridgewoodnj.net.

Rebecca Bleich is a local writer and library assistant. She loves to write about current events and local entertainment that capture a sense of community.

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A MORE PERFECT UNION - JAMES MADISON AND THE CONSTITUTION When: Sunday, Nov. 15, 2026; 2 p.m. Where: The Hermitage; 335 North Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus Tickets are $20 each Join the Hermitage for their special event with James Madison himself as he recounts his stories about the passing of the Constitution. For more information, visit thehermitage.org.

CANDLE MAKING

LANTERNS AT THE LOFT

When: Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026; 10:30 a.m. to noon.

When: Thursday, Nov. 19, 2026; 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Where: Worth-Pinkham Memorial Library; 91 Warren Avenue Ho-Ho-Kus

Where: Park West Loft (38 Oak Street), Ridgewood

Spark your creativity this fall with a special library program at Worth Pinkham Memorial Library. Create your own candle with a cozy, warm fall scent, perfect for the season. This event is only open to Ho-Ho-Kus residents, and registration is required.

Interested in experiencing an opportunity to support the Empowering Environments initiative? Then Lanterns at the Loft is for you. This event is brought to you by Empowering Environments and Junior League Bergen County and allows you to view a selection of holiday trees, centerpieces, and wreaths, and 10 to 12 specialty items up for a curated silent auction. Enjoy heavy appetizers, desserts, soft drinks, and a cash bar all while having a night full of fun and community.

For more information, visit hohokuslibrary.org.

Tickets are $75 each

For more information, visit thejlbc.org.

WINTERFEST IN MEMORIAL PARK AT VAN NESTE SQUARE When: Saturday, Nov. 21; noon to 3 p.m. (rain or shine) Free Admission Hayride and train tickets are 2/$5.00 Music, ice sculptures, and storytelling with one of our Guild elves, along with hot chocolate, cookies, candy canes, and food trucks! Even Santa is on board to welcome all the children, so grab a picture with him! For more information, visit ridgewoodguild.com/winterfest.

ALL ABOARD: MODEL TRAIN SHOW When: Saturday, Nov. 28, 2026; noon to 5 p.m.

DOWNTOWN FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Where: Ridgewood Museum at the Schoolhouse; 650 East Glen Avenue, Ridgewood

When: Friday, Dec. 4, 2026; 6 to 9 p.m.

Step into a world where miniature trains go past recreated landscapes presented in partnership with the Bergen County Model Railroad Club. The train show brings together artistry, engineering, and history of model railroading to delight visitors of all ages.

Save the date for the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce’s 41st annual Downtown for the Holidays and tree lighting. Bring out the family for holiday magic and fun with the Ridgewood community.

For more information, visit ridgewoodhistoricalsociety.org.

Where: Downtown Ridgewood

For more information, visit ridgewoodchamber.com/events.

NOVEMBER 2026 |

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LIVING W ELL

Who is at Your Table? This Thanksgiving, take a moment to be grateful for the people who surround you. BY STACEY ANTINE, MS, RDN, FOUNDER, DIRECTOR, HEALTHBARN USA

BEFORE THANKSGIVING DINNER begins, take a moment to look around the table. Who is there? Perhaps it is family you have gathered with for generations. Children growing up with traditions they will one day carry forward. A grandparent whose stories are as much a part of Thanksgiving as the recipes. Friends who have become family. A neighbor who was invited because you knew they might otherwise spend the holiday alone. Now think beyond the people sitting at the table. Who grew the food? Who harvested it? Who prepared it? Who set the table, carried the dishes, and stayed late to clean up? A meal is never just a meal.

There are people behind every plate. A farmer plants months before we ever think about Thanksgiving. A cook turns ingredients into something that brings people together. A volunteer gives an evening of their time. A grandmother passes down a recipe. A neighbor drops off a pie. Someone makes a phone call to make sure another person has somewhere to go. Food nourishes us, but sharing food can nourish something else, too: our sense of belonging. There is something powerful about sitting down together. We slow down. We talk. We listen. We notice who is there—and sometimes, perhaps more importantly, who is missing.

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HEALING MEALS In Ridgewood, that spirit of caring for one another is all around us. Each Thanksgiving, volunteers of all ages from the HealthBarn Foundation’s Healing Meals come together to prep and cook a Thanksgiving feast for 120 guests at the annual Ridgewood Elder Dinner. It has become one of the most meaningful— and feel-good—events of the year. But the most important part isn't simply what is served. It is the gathering. It is knowing that someone took the time to prepare a beautiful meal for you. It is sitting alongside neighbors and friends, sharing conversation, laughter, and the feeling that you are part of a community that remembers you. That

is the beautiful thing about a table: there is always room to make it bigger. This Thanksgiving, perhaps we can ask a slightly different question: Who could use a place at ours? Maybe it is a neighbor who lives alone. A friend who is far from family. Someone who has experienced a difficult year. Or simply someone you haven't seen in a while. It doesn't have to be a grand gesture. Sometimes an invitation is enough. Sometimes it is dropping off a meal or a pumpkin pie. Sometimes it is pulling up an extra chair. Because when we make room at the table, we make room in our hearts and in our community. And as we gather, it is worth pausing to recognize all those who

have contributed in ways both big and small—the farmers who grew the food, the cooks who prepared it, the volunteers who gave their time, the family and friends who brought something to share, and the neighbors who made sure no one was left out. There are so many hands behind a single meal, and so many acts of kindness behind a gathering. So before you sit down this Thanksgiving, look around. Who is at your table? And take a moment to be grateful for everyone who helped bring them—and the meal—there. For more information, visit healthbarnusa.com.

Stacey Antine 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, PBS-TV, and hundreds of broadcast, print, and social channels.

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A New Vision

The newly formed Ridgewood Business Alliance is taking a strategic, data-driven approach to helping the Village’s 750 businesses thrive. BY KRIS PEPPER

WALK THROUGH Ridgewood’s downtown, and it’s easy to appreciate what makes it special: historic character, a walkable business district, unique shops, restaurants and services, and a community that takes pride in shopping locally. But maintaining a thriving downtown in a rapidly changing business environment takes more than simply hoping the right businesses will find their way to Ridgewood. That’s where the newly formed Ridgewood Business Alliance (RBA) comes in. Led by Executive Director Steve Grillo and Marketing Director Corinne Mahoney, the RBA is positioned to provide strategic direction for

The benefits of working downtown on a beautiful day!

Ridgewood’s downtown business district. Created after several years of planning, the Alliance is taking a long-term, intentional approach to strengthening the local business community. The goal isn’t simply to bring more businesses to town. It’s to create an environment in which a diverse range of businesses can succeed—and remain successful. Local, regional, and national trends have created a need for communities to remain regionally competitive. About 100 municipalities in New Jersey are currently working with Special Improvement Districts (SIDs), whether the goal is to attract industry, improve downtown retail, or improve the general business environment.

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Signage, seasonal décor, and streetscapes are all part of the plan!

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ADAM PARAY

Right, from top: Steve Grillo, Corinne Mahoney.

THE BIGGER PICTURE The idea has been in the works for several years. Deputy Mayor Pam Perron was there from the beginning. “When I joined the Village Council in 2020, I was assigned to be a liaison to the Central Business District advisory committee, and we learned about Special Improvement Districts. We took field trips to various towns to see what they did in communities like Summit and Westfield.” The committee soon moved forward by hiring a consultant to help create the SID and selecting Steve Grillo as executive director. Grillo brings nearly 20 years of experience in downtown revitalization, commercial district management, and Special Improvement Districts. He spent a decade as first vice-president of the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation, where he helped create and manage three Business Improvement Districts, including one of just five industrial BIDs in New York City. From 2021 to 2025, he served as executive director of the Special Improvement District in Millburn-Short Hills, where the organization earned numerous awards and designations,

including the coveted Main Street New Jersey designation. Corinne Mahoney, marketing director, has a strong background in social media marketing, entrepreneurship, and marketing consulting for small businesses. She discovered the niche world of Special Improvement Districts in 2024, when she worked with the Millburn Short Hills SID, planning events, promotions, and educating the business community. Together, they are looking at Ridgewood through a different lens. Every community has different challenges. The RBA will identifythose challenges and determine how best to address them. “It’s a way to build and strengthen the downtown retail businesses,” says Grillo. “The RBA’s job is to create the right environment to help a diverse community of 750 businesses in Ridgewood thrive.” When residents wonder why Ridgewood has lots of certain types of businesses but not enough of others, Grillo says the answer starts with data. “The free market economy dictates what’s happening,” he says. “But the real question is, why is it easier for those types of businesses? Maybe zoning or

land usage don’t affect them—maybe there are other reasons. Our job is to figure that out—working with brokers, Village officials, zoning, parking, and so on to discover how we can improve the business environment to increase retail diversity while maintaining the character of the Village of Ridgewood.” That kind of investigation is at the heart of the RBA’s approach. A DOWNTOWN WITH INTENTION Typically, municipalities follow an ad hoc planning process, addressing issues with the staff and resources on hand at the time. A SID offers another approach: an intentional, proactive strategy in which NOVEMBER 2026 |

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Meeting with Don Axelband of Levato Eyewear. Right: Exploring the sights at Raymond’s on Oak Street.

different elements of the business district work together toward common goals. Rather than responding to individual problems as they arise, the organization intends to take a more coordinated look at the downtown— from streetscapes and signage to parking, walkability, traffic flow, retail diversity, and the needs of individual businesses. Grillo and Mahoney will work with Village officials, businesses, residents, and volunteers to create and execute that plan. MARKETING AND MORE Mahoney says marketing is a big part of the plan—and it’s about much more than simply promoting events or posting on social media. “Marketing plays a larger role than most people think,” says Mahoney. “You need clear messaging to tell the story of the community and the businesses within it.” Following the model of the nationally recognized Main Street Approach, the RBA’s mission is divided into four areas: economic vitality – creating a

diverse economic base and a strong entrepreneurial system; design – creating an inviting, inclusive atmosphere while celebrating Ridgewood’s historic character; promotion – communicating the community’s unique features through storytelling and the “buy local” experience. “We will be uncovering what makes Ridgewood special,” says Mahoney. For local business owners, the RBA is intended to become a trusted resource—not another program they have to figure out how to navigate. Grillo and Mahoney plan to continually assess the business environment, attend conferences and webinars to stay current on changing trends, and bring that information back to Ridgewood businesses. The plan includes helping businesses boost visibility and create growth opportunities, offering guidance on potential grants, financial literacy mentorship, banking and loan information, marketing guidance, special events, and digital resources. “We can provide support to business

owners who are too overwhelmed to know what to ask for; we will also serve as a liaison between businesses and the governing bodies of Ridgewood,” Mahoney says. For example, many businesses don’t know the NJEDA has a $50,000 grant available for businesses that own the building where they operate. Grillo can walk business owners through the process. The RBA also partners with SCORE, a group of retired executives who volunteer to mentor business owners in various areas of business. Technology is another major component of the RBA’s plans. The organization will be contracting with a local AI firm to make AI marketing and sales data accessible to business owners. The RBA will cover the cost of the first month of service, allowing businesses to make an informed decision about whether to continue investing in the service. The RBA also plans to introduce local businesses to marketing and social media influencers. The organization

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GET INVOLVED WITH THE RBA Are you a Ridgewood business owner? The RBA wants to hear from you. Schedule an onboarding meeting to review your business plan, marketing plan, and financials. The RBA team will review that information and provide recommendations. Want to get involved in the RBA community? The RBA is currently seeking volunteers for its economic vitality, design, and promotions committees. Email Corinne at corinne@ visitridgewood.org to learn more.

will handle the search and vetting process and help with costs, making it easier for business owners. Free social media audits will also be available to Ridgewood businesses, and the RBA can direct business owners to the NJEDA’s Small Business E-Commerce Support Program to apply for a free website. The philosophy is simple: make new technology and resources accessible, not intimidating. “People are overwhelmed, and they don’t know where to begin, but that’s why we are here,” says Grillo. “Being dynamic and responsive is why Amazon is so successful. Things change constantly, and that’s how business owners have to think. Remember, five years ago, ChatGPT didn’t exist! Our services need to directly represent the challenges businesses are seeing in a rapidly changing world.” The RBA isn’t only working with the businesses already here. Part of its mission is to promote Ridgewood to potential developers, businesses, and visitors. That means building relationships

and partnerships while using marketing and social media to tell Ridgewood’s story. It also means taking a close look at the practical realities businesses face every day. “We’ll make it as easy as possible,” says Grillo. “I’m like a salesman for the town.” The ultimate goal is to create a community where businesses can open, operate, and thrive more easily in Ridgewood. Like any organization, the RBA requires funding. Commercial properties and businesses pay an annual assessment to support the organization. “Think of this as an HOA,” says Mahoney. “Commercial properties and businesses help fund the RBA. All of these dollars go right back into our mission and back into the local businesses…so they should definitely use our services!” For Grillo, the investment is ultimately about creating value for the entire business community. “There is a good basis to work here in Ridgewood, as opposed to some of the other towns I’ve worked with,” he says.

Coming Up Watch for upcoming RBA events and initiatives, including opportunities for Ridgewood businesses and community members to get involved. Check out the Ridgewood Talks podcast this fall for the RBA’s series, “Ridgewood Talks Business.” The RBA will soon launch its new website, visitridgewood.org. Stay tuned!

“We will be taking on our challenges using thoughtful, data-driven planning to diversify the retail environment and develop messaging to support our downtown business owners.” The long game is straightforward: more businesses coming into town, businesses finding it easier to operate and be profitable, and business-friendly policies at the government level. Piece by piece, the RBA intends to add value for Ridgewood’s 750+ businesses. And for a downtown that has long been one of the Village’s defining features, that could mean an exciting new chapter. NOVEMBER 2026 |

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GATHERING

in Gratitude Ridgewood’s annual Elder Dinner brings community, connection, and Thanksgiving traditions to the table.

FOR MORE THAN a decade, Ridgewood’s Annual Elder Dinner has welcomed older adults for an afternoon of friendship, entertainment, and a Thanksgiving feast celebrating gratitude, connection, and the joy of sharing a meal. MORE THAN A MEAL As Thanksgiving approaches, most of us reflect on family traditions, favorite recipes, and gathering around the table. In Ridgewood, this extends beyond individual homes and invites the broader community to celebrate together. Each year, the Elder Dinner welcomes seniors for an afternoon of companionship, musical entertainment, and a homemade

BY KRIS PEPPER

Thanksgiving meal, all provided at no cost. The event is open to all older adults and offers something that becomes increasingly valuable for seniors—social connection. The Old Paramus Reformed Church will host the event, where volunteers and local musical groups will once again create a memorable holiday tradition. This year’s festivities will be held Sunday, Nov. 15, from 3 to 5 pm. “From its humble beginnings to the vibrant, bustling celebration, now in its eleventh year, the dinner continues to open its doors with the warmest of welcomes,” says Deanna Schablik, recreation program administrator for seniors. “As this event grows year after year, so does its impact—serving as a

beautiful reminder to all of Ridgewood that our elders are the foundational heartbeat of our community.” Organized through a public-private partnership of local organizations, volunteers, and community leaders, the dinner has become a holiday staple in Ridgewood. Even through the pandemic, volunteers loaded meals into vehicles and delivered them directly to seniors’ homes. That dedication has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, the program earned the prestigious Daniel M. Gasalberti Excellence in Recreation Program Award from the New Jersey Recreation and Parks Association, recognizing its impact and significance within the community.

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Opposite page: “My favorite part of the Elder Dinner is standing up at the end of the meal and asking, ‘Did you enjoy your dinner?’ When I see those double thumbsup, I know every bit of effort was worth it,” says Stacey Antine MS, RDN, director, HealthBarn Foundation. This page: “As a dietitian overseeing the food production for the past 11 years, my goal has always been to provide a delicious, nutritious meal that nourishes both body and soul. We thoughtfully consider the needs of the population we’re serving, including low-sodium and heart-healthy choices, so that every meal is both satisfying and supportive of their health,” saysStacey Antine MS, RDN, director, HealthBarn Foundation.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AND STACEY ANTINE

Bottom: Volunteers of all ages help to prep the meals.

A HEALTHIER THANKSGIVING FEAST At the heart of the celebration is a meal that feels comfortingly familiar: turkey breast, mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, cranberry sauce, apple crisp with ice cream, cornbread, hot apple cider, coffee, and tea. Yet behind the traditional menu is a thoughtful commitment to health and nutrition. Stacey Antine leads the meal prep, supported by volunteers from the Ridgewood Parks & Recreation Department, HealthBarn Foundation, Age Friendly Ridgewood, and the Civic Youth Corps, along with local businesses and generous community members. Volunteers spend days preparing ingredients, cooking, and serving a Thanksgiving feast that honors tradition with a nutritious approach. The result is a meal that reflects the spirit of Thanksgiving without sacrificing wellness, proving that holiday favorites can be both nourishing and satisfying. “Our volunteers show up, shift after shift, even during the busiest season of the year, to make sure our Elder Dinner is delicious, nutritious, and filled with care, says Antine, Founder of HealthBarn USA. It’s truly one of the best feel-good events in Ridgewood— and a beautiful reminder of what happens when a community comes together.” NOVEMBER 2026 |

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STACEY ANTINE’S BETTER-FOR-YOU CRANBERRY ORANGE RELISH A fresh and flavorful alternative to canned cranberry sauce. This harvest cranberry orange relish side is super fresh, easy to make, and not loaded with sugar! Fresh cranberries are notoriously tart, and sugar helps make these nutritious berries edible! We cut the sugar in half by using agave nectar but still maintained the sweetness. This relish helps boost the body’s immune system because it’s loaded with vitamin C. Enjoy! INGREDIENTS:

1 12-ounce bag of fresh cranberries 1 navel orange, unpeeled ½ cup agave nectar DIRECTIONS:

1. Place ½ the bag of fresh cranberries and the whole navel orange in the food processor and pulse until the mixture is evenly chopped. Add remaining cranberries and pulse until finely chopped. 2. Transfer to a bowl and stir in agave nectar until evenly mixed and sweet to taste. 3. Store in the refrigerator or freezer. Makes 12 servings (1⁄4 cup per serving). Nutrition Facts per serving: 60 calories; 0g fat; 0mg cholesterol; 16g carbohydrate (0g fiber, 13g sugar); 0g protein; 0mg sodium; 25% DV vitamin C.

From top: Volunteers ready to serve non-alcoholic sparkling wine. All hands on deck to assemble delicious meals.

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IT TAKES A VILLAGE While guests may only experience a few hours of celebration, the Elder Dinner represents months of planning and collaboration. Such cooperation is part of what makes the dinner special—it’s a community effort, reflecting the shared belief that everyone deserves a place at the table during the holiday season. “Our dinner is the highlight of the season as we gather Ridgewood’s older adults together and reflect on our gratitude for our wonderful community,” says Sheila Brogan of the Ridgewood Board of Education. “Age Friendly Ridgewood, the Village of Ridgewood’s Parks and Recreation Department, HealthBarn, and student volunteers make for a dynamic team that makes this annual event extra special for our older adults. It is service to our community personified!” For longtime attendees, the Elder Dinner has become much more than a date on the calendar. Some return to reconnect with friends they may not see often. Others look forward to meeting new people, enjoying the music performed by local students, or simply spending a few hours surrounded by warmth and conversation.

From top: The Ridgewood High School Acabellas help capture the festive spirit. Ridgewood Mayor Paul Vagianos mingles with the crowd.

The event fosters friendships, strengthens community ties, and creates countless memories over the years. It has become a tradition that many attendees consider an essential part of their holiday season. Donna Van Riper of Ridgewood enjoys many of the Village’s programs for seniors—especially the Elder Dinner. “It’s created a wonderful opportunity for those who do not have family nearby to have that sense of family and to celebrate with each other,” she says.

In an era when authentic connection can feel difficult to find, the Elder Dinner reminds us what Thanksgiving is truly about—community, gratitude, and creating a place where everyone feels welcome. The food may bring people to the table, but it is the friendship that keeps them coming back. The event’s guest list fills up quickly. Register here: register.capturepoint.com/ ridgewood. NOVEMBER 2026 |

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Sweet Success For MilkShake Factory franchise owners Penn and Tara Miller-Jones, family and the future are top of mind. BY COURTNEY MARIE BALDOVIN

WITH TWO CHILDREN already out of college, one currently in college, and their youngest still in school, Penn and Tara Miller-Jones wanted to find an opportunity that could bring everyone together around a shared venture while also benefiting the Ridgewood community they have called home for 15 years. The Miller-Joneses were first introduced to MilkShake Factory while visiting their son at the University of Pittsburgh in the city where the business has its roots. “We would always enjoy going when we were out there,” Penn says. “One of my wife’s colleagues retired from

finance and ended up getting five or six licenses up in the Boston area and had mentioned it to us. We said, ‘Well, that’s ironic. We’re familiar with the company because we’ve been out in Pittsburgh.’” During their Discovery Day experience, the Miller-Joneses appreciated how approachable the process felt as they tried their hands at making the milkshakes and chocolate themselves. At the same time, they began to picture how enjoyable the experience could be for future employees. “We loved the fact that they provide all customers with free samples and a chance to taste some of the homemade

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PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF PENN AND TARA MILLER-JONES

chocolate,” Penn says. MilkShake Factory has always been about family—right from the start. In 1914, Charlie and Orania Sarandou immigrated from Greece and opened a chocolate shop and soda fountain in Pittsburgh’s Lawrenceville neighborhood. The family’s chocolatemaking tradition would be passed down through four generations, with the second generation joining the business in 1950. By 1973, as the third generation entered the business, continued growth led to the opening of a chocolate factory just a few blocks away. “The history of the family is that they were chocolatiers for a number of years,” Penn explains. “They wanted to find a way to steady the revenue

from their chocolate shop over the summertime.” In 2003, the MilkShake Factory concept took shape through a college business project by Charlie and Orania’s great-granddaughter, Dana Edwards Manatos, now the company’s CEO. As the fourth generation took over the business, Dana and her brothers, Chris and Mark Edwards, expanded the menu to include creative milkshake flavors while holding onto the company’s bread and butter—its chocolates. Two decades later, MilkShake Factory entered a new phase with the launch of franchising in 2023, creating opportunities for others to bring the brand and its values to communities beyond Pittsburgh.

PAVING A NEW PATH That emphasis on family truly resonated with the Miller-Joneses. Both continue to work in finance, so finding a franchise opportunity with MilkShake Factory came at an ideal time. It offered them the flexibility to continue their careers while trying something new. “My 12-year-old daughter loves to come in here and hand out samples of chocolate to customers and work on the cash register,” Penn says. “If one of the kids wants to continue to pursue it, that option is there for them.” Ridgewood felt like the right fit to continue that tradition. Centrally located across from Van Neste Square, where many of the village’s events and activities take place, the shop provides NOVEMBER 2026 |

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customers with a comfortable and inviting destination to enjoy a dessert, celebrate a special occasion, and make memories of their own. “We thought Ridgewood would be a great town for something like this because there’s really nothing like it in and around the area,” Penn says. “A lot of people from the surrounding towns come here for the dining and shopping, and we knew we’d be able to have a great location here.” The menu offers something for nearly every sweet craving, ranging from classics like vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and cookies and cream to gourmet flavors such as banana foster, birthday cake, and salted caramel pretzel. The Ridgewood location also includes nondairy options, molten

chocolate cups, sundaes, and the everpopular root beer float. Among Penn’s personal favorites are the raspberries and cream, which pairs raspberry purée with sweet cream, and the cookie jar, which features chocolate chip cookie dough, crushed cookies and cream, and peanut butter cookie crumbles. “The way that MilkShake Factory has been able to create a consistent product—the shake comes out the same every single time—that’s what really appealed to us,” Penn says. “Even the straw is extra thick so that you get all of the great ingredients.” The shop’s chocolate barks are made in-store, while its chocolate bars are produced for the franchise using a century-old recipe. Among the top

sellers are the salted caramel and Dubai-style bars. The Miller-Joneses hold licenses to open two additional locations in Bergen County, but their current focus remains on getting the Ridgewood shop up and running before searching for the next one. More than a century after one family began a business that would connect generations through a love of chocolate and sweet treats, the Miller-Joneses are writing their own story in the Village of Ridgewood. Located at 63 East Ridgewood Avenue. Open daily, noon to 10 p.m. Call them at 201-267-4253 or visit the website at milkshakefactory.com/locations/ ridgewood.

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Beyond the Mic How well do you know your neighbors? 19-year-old George Peyrouton is busy meeting fascinating people and giving listeners a unique perspective on the people and ideas shaping our world. BY KRIS PEPPER

At 19, you already have an impressive list of people you’ve interviewed. When did you first get the idea of starting a podcast, and what was your very first interview like? I first got the idea to start the podcast after thinking about where I wanted to go and what I wanted to do with my life. I really like YouTube and social media, so why not talk to the people who make the content I watch? It’s a ton of fun, and I built it from the ground up. My first interview was when I was 15. I interviewed a YouTuber named Improvement Pill. It was such a big deal to me at the time, and for a while, he was my biggest interview. It was a truly remarkable experience. Your guests have included former KGB spy Jack Barsky, former New Jersey FBI chief Jim DiOrio, former FBI counterterrorism agent Peter Licata, and former FBI hostage negotiator Melissa Fortunato. What attracts you to conversations with people who have had unusual or high-stakes careers? They’re just interesting people! You can’t tell me the guy who caught Pablo Escobar or the guy who caught the Unabomber (both are people I’ve

interviewed and spoken to at length) aren’t some of the coolest people you can speak with. I also think you can learn something from any highly accomplished person in any field. There are so many cool people and stories out there—why settle for mediocrity? How do you decide whom to interview, and how do you reach out to them? The simple answer is whoever interests me or whatever topic interests me at a given time. Lately, I’ve been interviewing a lot of billionaires and other extremely wealthy people. I can often reach them through a cold email, but sometimes it comes from networking and knowing the right people. Just be polite and get to what you’re asking for quickly! What was it like interviewing Jack Barsky, who lived for years as a KGB operative in the United States? Was there anything about that conversation that surprised you? It was exciting getting to interview someone I’d heard so much about and seen on some of the biggest shows in the world, and he was much more

talkative than I expected. It ultimately surprised me how quickly his story shifted from working for the USSR to living as an average citizen in the United States. You’ve also interviewed Craigslist founder Craig Newmark. What did you want to learn from him, and what did you take away from that conversation? I wanted to understand Craig Newmark’s creative process, or “workflow,” if you will. I learned that the most successful people love what they do, work very hard, and, on some level, are naturally good at it. He also taught me that life can change instantly in ways you can’t imagine. He had been in the working world for over 20 years and invented Craigslist as a complete side project! He seems like a happy person and really loves building for its own sake. You’re interviewing people who may have 30 or 40 years of professional experience. Does being younger give you a different perspective, or do you sometimes have to prove yourself? Tremendously! Over the past 20 years, the world has experienced the

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Opposite page: Peyrouton at the podcast mic. This page: Peyrouton, John Rondi, a TikTok and Instagram influencer, and Steve Reynoso, manager and co-owner of LPM radio. World traveler and YouTuber, Luke Basso of Filmperia, George, and Garry Kasparov, Russian chess Grand Master.

PHOTOSGRAPHS COURTESY OF GEORGE PEYROUTON

most dramatic changes in human history in every dimension, culturally, socially, politically, economically, technologically, etc. People with 30 to 40 years of experience often see the world through the lens of what they grew up with. I see the world through the same lens, of course, but the difference is that I’m still living in those times for the most part. The world they grew up with didn’t even have the internet, let alone artificial intelligence, for example. I’ve never felt I really needed to prove myself. I believe you need to present well, get to the point, be polite, and know what you’re talking about. That takes you quite far in life— especially for a younger person. What would you tell another teenager with an idea for a podcast, business, or creative project but no idea where to begin? If you don’t know where to start, start somewhere; the absolute worst thing you can do is nothing. People can forgive a mistake and respect a person who tried and failed miserably, but nobody likes someone who does nothing and never tries. Try finding

a mentor or someone ideally around your age who is substantially more successful than you and ask them, “How’d you do it?” and ask them a million more questions. If someone wanted to start a podcast, I’d say, “Email 50 people asking them to come on your show.” If someone is interested in starting a new business, I’d advise consulting with people who have done it before you and figure out what works. If it doesn’t work out, at least you’ll have gained experience in networking, researching, and more confidence along the way. But think of the possibilities if it works out—you could have a business and podcast like me! A friend once called me and jokingly asked, “George, should I go out for pizza tonight?” I answered, “Well, if you go out tonight, you might find your wife or meet a business partner, but perhaps nothing interesting will happen. However, if you don’t go out, definitely nothing interesting or new will happen. The only way you’ll get the chance at something great is if you try.” I’m a big fan of the Minecraft endcredits quote, which I think sums this up well.

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” Finally, after everything you’ve learned from your guests, what’s the biggest question you’re still trying to answer for yourself? What’s next? The biggest question is: How do I build bigger, better, and ultimately awesome things, and maximize my potential as a person? How do I make the world a more awesome, interesting, and beautiful place? How do I go on crazier, cooler, and more interesting adventures? I hope to enjoy a life of fulfillment— complete with endless adventure, love, fantastic stories, true joy, and excitement. At least I hope, believe, and do everything in my power to make it so! Listen to The George Peyrouton Podcast on YouTube @georgepeyrouton or visit him on Instagram @gorgp21 or via his website at georgepeyrouton.com. NOVEMBER 2026 |

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HOM E FRONT

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ALIX NEWTON

Pumpkin Sticky Toffee Pudding

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If you’re looking for a dessert that’s just as perfect for casual weekend baking or your Thanksgiving table, this is the one for you. BY ALIX NEWTON

Pumpkin Sticky Toffee Pudding IF FALL WERE a dessert, it would be this warm sticky toffee pumpkin pudding. A classic fall dessert with an extra twist thanks to the addition of pumpkin. It’s spiced, cozy, indulgent, and just what you need for sweater weather.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ALIX NEWTON

Serves: 9 Prep time: 30 minutes Bake time: 45 minutes

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups all-purpose flour • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 1 teaspoon baking powder • 2 teaspoon cinnamon • 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice

For the Pumpkin Cake • 200 grams dates, chopped • ¼ cup butter • ¾ cup boiling water • 1 teaspoon vanilla • 1 cup pumpkin puree • ¾ cup Greek yogurt • 1 cup soft brown sugar • 1 large egg

For the pumpkin toffee sauce • 5 tablespoon salted butter • ¾ cup light brown sugar • ¾ cup heavy cream • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • ¼ teaspoon salt or sea salt • 2/3 cup pumpkin puree

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease an 8x8 square baking dish. 2. In a medium mixing bowl, add the dates, butter, boiling water and vanilla and leave the dates to soak for 10 to 15 minutes. Once soaked, mash the dates down with a fork. 3. After 15 minutes, add the sugar, pumpkin, Greek yogurt and egg to a large bowl, then add the softened dates with the liquid and mix everything together. 4. Fold in the flour, baking soda, baking powder and spices until everything comes together into a smooth batter then pour it into the prepared baking dish and bake for 45 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. 5. While the cake bakes, make the toffee sauce by combining the sugar, butter, pumpkin, cream, salt, and vanilla together in a saucepan until the sugar dissolves and begins to bubble. Leave it to simmer for a few minutes, then remove from the heat. 6. When the cake is fresh from the oven, use a skewer or fork to prick holes all throughout the cake, then pour half the pumpkin toffee sauce evenly over the cake, gently letting it sink in. 7. Serve the sticky toffee pumpkin pudding warm and top with ice cream and warm pumpkin toffee sauce.

Alix Newton is a baking blogger and photographer. Visit her online at mykitchensdrawer.com and follow her on social media @mykitchendrawer. NOVEMBER 2026 |

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DINING GUI DE

Bites and Delights Why go anywhere else for dinner? Downtown Ridgewood is a dining experience in and of itself.

Lula 28 Oak Street 201-301-0301 Built around seasonal, sustainable ingredients and thoughtful cooking, Lula delivers delicious, well-executed dishes that bring people together. www.lulanj.com @lula_nj MacMurphy’s 8 Godwin Avenue 201-444-0500 Irish pub featuring classic Irish and American favorites. macmurphys.com @macmurphys

Cravings Tapas Bistro 8 Wilsey Square 201-857-8533 Intimate bistro offering Spanish and international small plates, charcuterie and empanadas. cravingstapas.com @cravingstapas Daily Treat 177 East Ridgewood Avenue 201-652-9113 This family-owned restaurant serves an eclectic menu of breakfast, lunch and dinner favorites. dailytreatrestaurant.com @dailytreatnj Felina Ridgewood 18 Prospect Street 551-276-5454 Distinctive, seasonal menu paired with a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list. felinarestaurant.com @felinarestaurants

Freakin’ Vegan 39 Godwin Avenue 201-677-2421 Freakin’ Vegan creates vegan versions of all your favorite comfort foods: empanadas, mac and cheese, subs, sliders, pizza and more. Takeout and delivery only. freakin-vegan.com @freakinvegans From Scratch 44 East Ridgewood Avenue 201-857-5188 Elevated contemporary Italian cuisine and classic baked goods. fromscratchridgewood.com @fromscratchridgewood Gomen Japanese Kitchen Lab 39 Godwin Avenue 551-775-3333 Gomen’s head chef built Kitchen Lab with one goal: to engineer the ultimate bowl. .gomen-lab.com/

Kimchi Smoke 2 Godwin Avenue Ridgewood, NJ 07450 201-447-6653 Homey counter-serve eatery that fuses Texas-style pit BBQ with Korean flavors & ingredients. www.kimchismoke.com @kimchismoke La Lanterna Café and Grill 29 West Ridgewood Avenue 201-444-5520 La Lanterna offers southern Italian cuisine with a hint of Tuscany. Antipasti, veal, chicken, pasta dishes and more. lalanternaofridgewood.com @lalanternaofridgewood Latour 6 East Ridgewood Avenue 201-445-5056 Elegant, candle-lit BYOB showcasing French fare with a relaxed vibe. latourridgewood.com @latourridgewoodnj

Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls 111 E Ridgewood Avenue 201-301-7622 Lobster straight from the waters of Maine, and prepared according to the simple, honest traditions of the people who live there. masonslobster.com/ @masonslobster Millburn Deli 15 Oak Street 201-548-3177 Sandwiches, salads, and tasty chaos since 1946. millburndeli.com @millburndeli Morsetto Italian Kitchen 29 Chestnut Street 201-620-6488 Authentic Italian dining with respect for tradition. morsettousa.com @morsetto_us Meltemi Greek Restaurant 21 East Ridgewood Avenue 201-632-0022 Prepare for a culinary journey that transports you to the sunsoaked shores of the Aegean Sea. meltemirestaurant.com/ @meltemi_ridgewood

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Pancake House and Grill 140 East Ridgewood Avenue 201-444-9090 This petite, bustling diner serves a menu of homestyle eats. pancakehouseandgrill.com @pancakehousegrill Pardi’s Persian Grill 47 East Ridgewood Avenue 201- 652-8000 Family-owned and operated, Pardi’s Persian Grill brings Persian food with a home-cooked feel to the Village of Ridgewood. pardispersiangrill.com Park West Tavern 30 Oak Street 201-445-5400 New American cuisine including steaks and seafood with a full bar stocked with craft brews. parkwesttavern.com @parkwesttavern Puzo’s Family Restaurant 16 West Ridgewood Avenue 201-445-3332 Casual family atmosphere featuring pizza, appetizers, salads and sandwiches.puzos.net @puzos_ridgewood

Raymonds 101 East Ridgewood Avenue 201-445-5125 Upscale diner with buzzy brunches, American comfort food and a fashionable vibe. raymondsnj.com @raymondsnj Ridgewood Dosa House 22 Oak Street 201-300-0015 Pure vegetarian, vegan, and jain food. dosahouseridgewood.com @dosahouseridgewood Ridgewood Hot Bagels 110 North Maple Avenue 201-445-6005 Hot bagels, wraps and more. ridgewoodhotbagels.com @ridgewoodhotbagels Roots Steakhouse 17 Chestnut Street 201-444-1922 Upscale local chophouse serving steak, seafood and sides in a traditional setting. rootssteakhouse.com @rootssteakhouse

S. Egidio Pizza Salumi Espresso 17 North Broad Street 201-389-3525 Relaxed Italian restaurant serving pizza, pasta, sangria and espresso in an intimate space. segidio.pizza@s.egidio Shumi 70 East Ridgewood Avenue 201-345-0808 Japanese eatery with upscale fare and sushi bar. shumiomakase.com @shumiomakase Sola Osteria 17 South Broad Street 201-857-5100 Sola Osteria’s authentic taste of Italy brings a variety of dishes that embody Italian cuisine. cuisine.solaosteria.com @solaosteria Steel Wheel Tavern 51 North Broad Street 201-882-1800 Modern American Fare, craft cocktails, and an extensive wine list. steelwheeltavern.com @steelwheeltavern

Stella Artisan Italian 18 East Ridgewood Avenue 201-857-2677 Artisan kitchen featuring handcrafted Italian specialties made with farm-fresh ingredients. stellaartisanitalian.com @stella.italian.nj The Office Tavern Grill 32-34 Chestnut Street 201-652-1070 Local chain offering a large selection of craft beers and American eats. officetaverngrill.com @theofficetaverngrill Truly Sichuan 31 Chestnut Street 201-857-3830 Healthy, authentic Chinese. trulysichuan.com @trulysichuan Turmeric Indian Bistro 34 Franklin Avenue 201-574-8777 A modern-day Indian bistro bringing authentic flavorful food. turmericindianbistro.com @turmericindianbistro

NOVEMBER 2026 |

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BOOK NOOK

Pass the Dysfunction, Please 10 books about families that make yours look almost normal. BY LORRI STEINBACHER NOVEMBER BRINGS CROWDED holiday tables and the annual reminder that every family has a story. Fortunately, other families are much more fun to read about. These books prove that when families get together, something is bound to happen. Pour another glass of wine and enjoy the dysfunction from a safe distance.

THE CORRECTIONS

by Jonathan Franzen There has been a recent resurgence of this book online. The Lambert children have escaped their Midwestern childhood, but their mother just wants one thing— Christmas together. What follows is a funny, uncomfortable, and remarkably perceptive look at aging parents, disappointing children, marriage, money, and the strange gravitational pull of home. This book famously had an expensive HBO pilot, directed by Noah Baumbach and starring Meryl Streep, that was never released.

COMMONWEALTH

by Ann Patchett If there’s one thing Ann Patchett knows, it’s family drama. A stolen kiss at a christening blows apart two marriages and creates a blended family whose six children spend decades dealing with the consequences. The result is a messy tale that shows how the stories families tell about themselves can be as important as what actually happened.

FRENCH BRAID

by Anne Tyler The Garretts love one another, although they aren’t especially good at showing it. Tyler examines all the tiny misunderstandings, habits, and resentments that accumulate in a family until nobody can quite remember how the distance began.

THE NEST

by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney Four adult siblings have counted on an inheritance they call “the Nest.” When their reckless brother jeopardizes the money, old grievances come roaring back. Money and family are always an explosive combo.

THE LATECOMER

by Jean Hanff Korelitz The Oppenheimer triplets have very little interest in being a happy family, and the arrival of a fourth sibling doesn’t exactly simplify matters. Korelitz packs privilege, resentment, secrets, identity, and sibling warfare into an ambitious family saga that keeps finding new ways to surprise you.

THIS IS WHERE I LEAVE YOU

by Jonathan Tropper Four grown siblings return to their childhood home after their father’s death and are required to spend seven days sitting shiva together. This story is the literary equivalent of locking your extended family in a house and hiding the car keys. Also a film starring Jason Bateman and Tina Fey.

THE FAMILY FANG

by Kevin Wilson Annie and Buster Fang grew up as unwilling participants in their parents’ elaborate and often outrageous performance-art stunts. They’ve managed to carve out messy lives of their own when their parents disappear. Is this another stunt, or is it for real? An examination of what happens when your parents consider you part of their art before they consider you their children. Also a film starring Jason Bateman (again!) and Nicole Kidman. 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.

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YOUR LINK TO EVERYTHING RIDGEWOOD

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6/17/25 11:15 AM

Ridgewood February 2026

& HO-HO-KUS

LOVE IN ACTION

WEST SIDE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

BRINGING WORLDS TO LIFE LEAH TINARI

A Life of ADVENTURE HAROLD CONANT

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1/20/26 2:48 PM

Ridgewood Ridgewood Ridgewood April 2026

May 2026

& HO-HO-KUS

June 2026

& HO-HO-KUS

SHAPING THE COMMUNITY

& HO-HO-KUS

CONNECTIONS WOMEN’S GROUP

WHO WAS NATHAN STRAUS? A NEW BIOGRAPHY BY ANDREW FISHER

HONORING WOMEN THROUGH ART KRISTINA FILLER

SINGING AS ONE THE ORPHEUS CLUB MEN’S CHORUS

REMEMBERING A WWII HERO THOMAS B. MCGUIRE

EARTH DAY BEGINS WITH YOU

Finding Moments of Joy

HOW TO HELP LOCALLY

Preserving History GIRL SCOUT CAITLYNN ALBARELLA

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3/16/26 11:10 AM

Expertise IN BLOOM

THE COMPASSION OF CAREGIVING

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More Than an Ad.

When you become a partner—you’re more than an advertiser.

HO-HO-KUS GARDEN CLUB

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5/18/26 1:30 PM

Learn more about our new sponsorship program. Contact Karen Stires at Karen.Stires@wainscotmedia.com or 201.452.7811.

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PHOTO OP

FALL FEELINGS “I CAN SMELL autumn dancing in the breeze. The sweet chill of pumpkin,

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Submit your high-resolution shot to editor@ridgewoodmag.com

PHOTOGRAPH BY MARGIE DOWNS

and crisp sunburnt leaves.” — Ann Drake

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Valley Home Care Ad 2026 8.375 x 10.875.qxp 10/13/26 4:09 PM Page 1

Valley Home Care

Five Stars from Our Patients: The Highest Rating for Patient Experience Valley Home Care has earned five stars — the highest attainable — as recently reported by Medicare. Best of all, this five-star rating reflects the voices and experiences of the patients we serve, who reported they received exceptional care, clear communication from our team, and helpful education about medication, pain management, and safety throughout their experience with us. Thank you for placing your trust in us. We are privileged to care for you. We are Valley Home Care, and we are five stars!

To see our ﬁve-star rating, visit Medicare.gov/Care-Compare*. For more information about Valley Home Care, call 201-291-6000.

Care Like No Other

ValleyHealth.com/HomeCare * January to December 2025

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