Ridgewood October 2026
& HO-HO-KUS
ART IMITATING LIFE BENAY CHENG
THE FIGHT AGAINST HUNGER TABLE TO TABLE
A Step Beyond Care
HARLEY STREET MEDICAL
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R E A LT R E N D S
VERIFIED CITY RANKINGS · TOP 1.5% OF REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS
RANKED #3 SMALL TEAMS IN SALES VOLUME IN RIDGEWOOD Erin Pruitt
Jennifer Donovan
Realtor® Sales Associate RSPS, Founding Agent M: 201.888.4800 O: 551.284.0175 erin.pruitt@compass.com
Realtor® Sales Associate CNE, PSA M: 201.906.9138 O: 551.284.0175 jennifer.donovan@compass.com
Jennifer Donovan and Erin Pruitt are licensed real estate salespersons 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. *Per RealTrends Verified 2026.
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Contents OCTOBER 2026
F EATU RES
14
A Step Beyond Care
A return to relationship-based medicine is at the heart of Harley Street Medical’s practice. 20
Art Imitating Life
The Ridgewood Arts Foundation’s Inaugural Visual Arts Scholarship award recipient Benay Cheng embraces new beginnings at The School of Visual Arts.
14
20 6
10
28
24
I N TH I S I S SU E
4
EDITOR’S NOTE Welcoming October
6
LOCAL FUN Spellbinding October Events
10
LIVING WELL What Nature Gives You
24
Q&A Gather at the Table
28
HOME FRONT Peanut Butter Granola Bites
30
BOOK NOOK Spooky Season Spotlight
32
PHOTO OP We’re Seeing Spots!
COVER
Drs. Hart and Valinoti of Harley Street Medical. Photograph by Adam Paray
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E DITOR’S NOTE
Ridgewood
& HO-HO-KUS
AS THE DAYS shorten and the air feels crisper, the energy in the air is palpable. The fall season has begun, and there’s plenty to look forward to. Our October issue celebrates some of the people and organizations helping make our community such a vibrant place to live. This month, we’re pleased to feature Harley Street Medical, located in HoHo-Kus. The physicians and staff at this practice prioritize personal connections, emphasizing an understanding of each patient and their individual health needs. It’s a thoughtful approach to medicine— and one that reflects the growing importance of making time for our own health and well-being. We’re also celebrating Benay Cheng, a recent Ridgewood High School
PHOTOGRAPH BY MARJORIE RAGGO
a
A SEASON OF CHANGE
graduate and the first recipient of the Ridgewood Arts Foundation’s Visual Arts Scholarship, who is now embracing new beginnings at the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan. Benay’s accomplishment is something our community can be proud of, and highlights the importance of investing in the creativity and talent of the next generation. As we move toward the holiday season, food will inevitably become an increasingly important part of our gatherings. This month, we’re sharing news of Table to Table’s upcoming culinary event, Ridgewood Chef’s Table, which will bring together Ridgewood chefs for an evening celebrating food, community, and a worthy cause. It’s a wonderful example of how local talent and a spirit of generosity can come together around the table. Fall is a season of transition, but it’s also a season of connection. From supporting young artists to discovering new ways to care for ourselves and coming together over a great meal, there are countless reasons to appreciate the people who make Ridgewood and Ho-Ho-Kus special. So enjoy the cooler days, the changing leaves, and all that October has to offer. And, as always, thank you for letting us share our community’s stories with you.
Kris Pepper
Editor editor@ridgewoodmag.com ridgewoodmag.com @ridgewoodmag
Publisher Karen Stires karen.stires@wainscotmedia.com Editor Kris Pepper Writers Courtney Marie Baldovin Kris Pepper Rebecca Bleich Stacey Antine, RD Wendy Lees 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
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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LOCAL FUN
Spellbinding October Events Create lasting memories with family and friends as “sweater weather” approaches. BY REBECCA BLEICH
A TASTE OF HERITAGE Where: Cenia New York; 1 Franklin Avenue, Ridgewood When: Thursday, Oct. 8; 5 to 7 p.m. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Mouth with Cenia, Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce, and Carlos J. Capellan’s Ridgewood State Farm Office in an exclusive community mixer. Experience an unforgettable evening of music, rich culture, delicious bites, and community. Enjoy live music, authentic tapas, and complimentary drinks. For more information, visit: ridgewoodchamber.com/events.
FALL TRINKET TRAYS Where: 14 West Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood When: Sunday, Oct. 11; 3 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.
SEASONAL SUCCULENT TERRARIUM Where: Deeply Rooted, 14 West Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood When: Sunday, Oct. 4; 3 to 4:15 p.m. $45 per person. Feeling creative? Create and learn about your own mini succulent terrarium with fall decor pieces. Create your own succulent and enjoy some light bites for a night full of fall fun.
Celebrate fall with a special craft event at Deeply Rooted creating your own autumnal trinket tray. Press flowers and create your own style tray to take home and show off to your friends and family. Spend the night becoming artsy and enjoying light bites. For more information, visit: deeplyrootedridgewood.com.
For more information and to register visit: deeplyrootedridgewood.com.
PAPER SHREDDING EVENT When: Ho-Ho-Kus Borough Hall When: Saturday, Oct. 3; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. De-clutter your files and shred away: Ho-Ho-Kus has got you covered. Open to Ho-Ho-Kus residents only. For more information, visit hhkborough.com.
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AUTUMN FESTIVAL Where The Hermitage; 335 North Franklin Turnpike, HoHo-Kus When: Saturday, Oct. 10; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission: $10 per person; kids under 5 are free Celebrate the beauty of fall at the Hermitage Museum’s annual Autumn Festival. Enjoy an afternoon filled with live music, delicious food, local beer, and family-friendly activities for all ages. Bring along the whole family and experience a special fall festival. For more information, visit: thehermitage.org.
DEATH VALLEY BEAUTY PAGEANT/MURDER MYSTERY Where: Jaqua Hall at The Hermitage; 335 North Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus When: Saturday, Oct. 17; 7 p.m. Admission: $90 per ticket and $170 for a pair Have a night full of fright and fun at the Hermitage in partnership with Murder Cafe. Bring your best ghostly glamour and style, as someone will be crowned Queen of the Crypt and someone will die trying. This event is recommended for those over 21. Dress up, show up, and scare up some fun. For more information, visit: thehermitage.org.
HALLOWEEN IN THE PARK Where: Memorial Park at Van Neste Square When: Saturday, Oct. 24; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Spend the day celebrating Halloween early with the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce. Come wearing costumes and gather with the community for a Halloween event you will never forget. For more information, visit: ridgewoodchamber.com/events.
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LOCAL FUN
PUMPKIN PICKING & HALLOWEEN PARTY Where: Ho-Ho-Kus Community Garden When: Friday, Oct. 23; 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. Gather up the family to experience Ho-Ho-Kus’s Community Garden’s Pumpkin Picking and Halloween Party. Spend the afternoon experiencing the wonders of fall by picking a pumpkin, playing games, listening to a read aloud and participating in crafts. Come in costume to kick off Halloween early with the HoHo-Kus community. For more information, visit: hhkborough.com.
FALL HO-HO-KUS TOWNWIDE GARAGE SALE RIDGEWOOD CHEF’S TABLE Where: Park West Tavern, 30 Oak Street, Ridgewood
When: Friday, Oct. 16 to Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026 Presented by Max Stokes Real Estate. Net proceeds benefit Worth-Pinkham Memorial Library in Ho-Ho-Kus. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit: maxstokesrealestate.com/hhktownwide.
Monday, Nov. 2, 6:30 p.m. $200 per person; call 201-4455400 to make a reservation Join Ridgewood Chef’s Table in an event benefiting Table to Table, New Jersey’s first and largest food rescue organization. Experience a five-course dinner with wine pairings featuring chefs from The Park West Tavern, Felina Restaurant, Latour Restaurant, Restaurant Lula, & Black Magic Bake House. It’s an evening not to be missed (learn more in our Q&A this month)! For more information, visit: tabletotable.org/events.
Rebecca Bleich Rebecca 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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LIVING W ELL
What Nature Gives You Treat food as medicine this fall and beyond. BY STACEY ANTINE, MS, RDN, FOUNDER, DIRECTOR, HEALTHBARN USA "PAY THE FARMER now, or pay the doctor later." It's an old saying, and while perhaps a little simplistic, there is wisdom behind it. The foods we grow, harvest, and eat can be one of the most powerful ways we care for ourselves. There may be no better time of year to appreciate that wisdom than October. October is harvest season, and the foods of fall are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that support our overall health and normal immune function. Dark leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and Swiss chard provide an abundance of nutrients and beneficial plant compounds. Orange vegetables such as winter squash and sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, which our bodies convert to vitamin A, an important nutrient for immune health.
And don't overlook what is growing beneath the soil. Root vegetables are fall's nutritional treasures. Carrots, beets, parsnips, turnips, and potatoes are hearty, satisfying, and filled with fiber and nutrients. Roasted with olive oil and herbs, they become sweet, caramelized, and delicious. Perhaps the most remarkable thing about the fall harvest is the timing. As we move toward shorter days and colder weather, nature gives us an abundance of foods that nourish and support our bodies. We don't need to search for one magical "superfood." Instead, think variety. Eat a rainbow of fruits and vegetables and give your body a wide range of nutrients and beneficial plant compounds. This is what I love about the concept
of food as medicine. It isn't about a perfect diet or one miracle ingredient. It is about recognizing that the foods we choose every day can play an essential role in nourishing our bodies and supporting our health. So this October, pay attention to the harvest. Support the farmers who grow our food. Appreciate what is growing in our gardens and community gardens. Visit a local farm stand or farmer's market. Bring home something colorful. Cook something from the earth. Share a meal around the table. When we pay attention to the seasons, something wonderful happens: nature gives us what we need, right when we need it. Perhaps that is nature's version of food as medicine!
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DON'T TOSS THAT PUMPKIN! There's More to Pumpkin Than Halloween Before you send your jack-o'-lantern to the curb after Halloween, think twice. Pumpkin is food—not just a decoration! That beautiful orange color comes from beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. Pumpkin also provides fiber and other nutrients, making it a wonderful addition to fall meals. Put Your Pumpkin to Work ROAST IT Small culinary pumpkins can be cubed and roasted just like butternut squash. Try olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. SOUP IT Blend pumpkin into a creamy soup or add it to chili for extra flavor, color and fiber. STIR IT IN Add pumpkin puree to oatmeal, risotto, pasta sauce, or even a smoothie. BAKE IT Pumpkin puree adds moisture and natural sweetness to muffins, pancakes, and quick breads. SAVE THE SEEDS Rinse, season, and roast the seeds for a crunchy snack or sprinkle them over salads and soups. Pumpkin seeds provide protein, healthy fats, magnesium, and zinc. One Important Tip If you plan to eat your pumpkin, choose a small sugar or pie pumpkin rather than a large carving pumpkin. Culinary pumpkins tend to be sweeter and less stringy. This Halloween, before you toss your pumpkin, ask yourself: "Can I eat it?" Sometimes the best way to celebrate the harvest is to put it on your plate. 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.
OCTOBER'S NEW JERSEY HARVEST What's Growing Now? FRUITS Apples • Pears • Cranberries DARK LEAFY GREENS Kale • Spinach • Swiss chard Arugula • Mustard greens ROOT VEGETABLES Carrots • Beets • Parsnips • Turnips • Radishes • Potatoes • Sweet potatoes FALL FAVORITES Pumpkins • Winter squash Brussels sprouts • Broccoli Cabbage • Leeks • Garlic Try Something New Fill a roasting pan with carrots, beets, parsnips, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts (add chickpeas for added protein). Toss with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs, then roast until caramelized. Add sautéed kale at the end for a colorful, nourishing fall plant-based meal. Seasonal availability can vary by farm and weather.
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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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A Step Beyond Care A return to relationshipbased medicine is at the heart of Harley Street Medical’s practice.
I
BY KRIS PEPPER
Drs. Hart and Valinoti
IN TODAY’S WORLD, convenience is everywhere. We can order groceries with a few taps, schedule transportation instantly, and access nearly anything online. Yet health care often feels like it’s moving in the opposite direction. Patients routinely wait months for appointments, spend valuable time navigating phone systems, and often leave visits feeling rushed or unheard. Harley Street Medical believes there is a better way. Founded more than 40 years ago on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, Harley Street Medical was built on a simple premise: to restore the patientphysician relationship. Over the years, as health care has become increasingly fragmented and impersonal, that mission has only become more important. After expanding to three Manhattan locations, the practice recently opened a new office in HoHo-Kus, bringing its relationship-based approach to Bergen County. Concierge medicine offers patients a more personalized and accessible health care experience through a membership model. By caring for fewer patients, physicians can devote more time to each individual, developing a deeper understanding of their medical history, health goals, and personal concerns. At Harley Street Medical, patient care begins long before a physician enters the room.
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PHOTOGRAPHS BY HARLEY STREET MEDICAL AND ADAM PARAY
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BEYOND THE EXAM ROOM
Director of Practice Operations Christina Bas believes exceptional health care is a team effort that extends to every interaction a patient has with the practice. “I really believe the patient experience belongs to the entire team, not just the physician,” she says. “It starts before a patient ever walks into the office. It’s how we answer the phone, how they’re greeted, whether we remember their preferences, how quickly we respond when they need help, and how easy we make it for them to navigate their care.” That attention to detail can take many forms, from remembering a patient’s preferred coffee order to asking about their upcoming vacation. More often, it involves a great deal of behind-the-scenes coordination. As Bas explains, “We help our patients get into specialists’ offices quickly, assist with
coordinating care, and make phone calls to help wherever necessary. Those moments are what turn good service into a long-lasting relationship.”
THE CONCIERGE MODEL
Dr. Karen M. Hart and Dr. Anne Marie Valinoti joined Harley Street Medical’s Ho-Ho-Kus office because they wanted to practice medicine in a way that allows for more meaningful patient relationships and more comprehensive care. Patients in today’s health care system face many challenges, including lengthy appointment wait times, rushed visits, and limited followup. For Dr. Hart, practicing at Harley Street Medical represents a return to the type of medicine that first inspired her to become a physician. “When I began practicing medicine, I had enough time to spend with each patient, but over the years,
appointments became shorter, and even complex patients were seen in abbreviated visits,” she explains. “I missed the ability to delve deeper into problems and treatment options with patients. The concierge model has allowed me to return to what I find most rewarding about medicine— getting to know my patients.” Dr. Valinoti has witnessed the frustrations patients having navigating the health care system. “Even people who have an established primary care physician run into obstacles getting routine scans and testing scheduled, or seeing specialists promptly.” Hart notes that patients often struggle to see a trusted physician when they need one most. “When patients develop an acute issue, they may be referred to an urgent care center and be seen by a provider with whom they do not have a long-standing relationship,” she says.
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Top to bottom: Dr. Hart consults with a patient—medicine with a smile! The relaxed and friendly atmosphere at Harley Street Medical shows throughout every procedure.
THE VALUE OF TIME
For the physicians at Harley Street Medical, trust and continuity form the foundation of great health care. Meaningful conversations encourage patients to discuss concerns, fears, and questions they might otherwise keep to themselves. Over time, that relationship allows physicians to better understand each patient’s health history, personality, and preferences, leading to more personalized care and stronger outcomes. The benefits of that approach are already evident. Dr. Valinoti recalls working with a patient who suffered from an uncommon collection of medical issues that had long eluded diagnosis. “Because of the time I was able to spend on record review and discussion, we were able to unearth an old test result that helped us better understand his condition,” says Valinoti. “This revelation was very meaningful to him. The value of having the time to dive deeply into a patient’s medical records can’t be overstated in a case where someone has a complex history.” Patients with multiple specialists or complicated medical histories can benefit significantly from this level of oversight. As Hart explains, “Because I know the patient and have the time to review all the results, I can make sure the patient’s overall health care plan is appropriate and coordinated.” OCTOBER 2026 |
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WHITE-GLOVE COORDINATION AND ADVOCACY
For busy professionals, caregivers, and frequent travelers, coordinating medical appointments can be a challenge. Harley Street Medical seeks to remove that burden by helping schedule imaging studies, specialist consultations, and followup appointments while connecting patients with providers best suited to their needs. They then take the lead following up with the specialist physicians or external facilities directly to ensure that all relevant notes and results are centralized in one place within the Harley Street Medical systems.
In an era where patients have access to endless health advice online, having a trusted physician to help interpret information can be invaluable. Dr. Valinoti appreciates being able to spend time discussing health information patients encounter and helping them evaluate it thoughtfully. Hart adds that supplements and compounded medications have become increasingly popular and believes open conversation is essential. “I want my patients to feel comfortable bringing these products to me, and together we can review and discuss purported benefits as well as potential risks.” The Harley Street team even knows your go-to brew!
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WHAT PATIENTS REMEMBER MOST
When asked what she hopes patients say when they look back on their health care journey with Harley Street Medical, Hart’s answer focuses on support, accessibility, and partnership. “I hope that my patients feel that they are receiving excellent medical care, and that I am here for them when they need me. Whether that means getting them in for an appointment when they need one, answering a phone call, talking through a question, or coordinating care with a specialist, the team at Harley Street is here to help. Ultimately, I want my patients to feel that their health care was personal and coordinated, and that they were never navigating the medical system alone.” Valinoti shares a similar perspective, emphasizing the importance of making patients feel fully supported by everyone in the practice. “I hope my patients feel completely cared for. That includes the care and attention they
get from me and everyone in our office. My patients should feel like the burden of managing their care (or their family member’s care) is really shouldered by us here at Harley Street Medical.” For Bas, the difference often comes down to the team’s commitment to service. As she puts it, “Our team works to ensure patients have the best experience at their appointment! Whether you need a warm cup of tea as you arrive or some complex visits scheduled on your behalf, we are there for you.” Ultimately, Bas believes patients value something increasingly rare in health care today. “I think what patients value most is feeling genuinely known and cared for. From the first visit, we get to know our patients and learn their preferences and concerns. Our casual conversations make them comfortable and create a high level of trust, which encourages patients to communicate more openly, ultimately
helping us provide better care. We take this privilege and responsibility very seriously. Our team is really paying attention and looking out for you at Harley Street Medical!” Find more information at harleystreetmed. com/nj. Dr. Karen Hart graduated from Princeton University before receiving an MD from Washington University in St. Louis. She has been named a Top Doctor by Castle Connolly and a Top Internist in Bergen County by Bergen County Magazine every year since 2017. Dr. Anne Marie Valinoti holds a BA from Haverford College and an MD from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University. She has been recognized as a Top Doctor by Castle Connolly for over 15 years and as an Exceptional Woman in Medicine. OCTOBER 2026 |
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Ridgewood High School graduate and artist Benay Cheng
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Art Imitating Life Ridgewood Arts Foundation’s inaugural Visual Arts Scholarship Award recipient Benay Cheng embraces new beginnings at The School of Visual Arts.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF BENAY CHENG
BY COURTNEY MARIE BALDOVIN
A
AS THE FAMILIAR saying goes, “Eyes are the window to the soul.” For artist Benay Cheng, they also help reflect the emotions underneath the surface, ones that cannot always be spoken. One of Cheng’s favorite illustrations features hands and eyes against a red background. “The eyes represent how we can judge ourselves at times, while the hands offer comfort in reassuring ourselves that we are good enough,” she says. Drawing and self-expression have been creative outlets for Cheng since childhood. Her love of visual arts began in the fourth grade, when she would spend time drawing with her friends. While she tried other art forms, such as fashion design and ceramics, drawing and illustration were what
An illustration of Cheng, her parents, and Sprite from “The Quiet Years.”
truly resonated with her. “I just really enjoy drawing, and I can use drawing to show my emotions and my thinking,” she shares. “I can show my feelings through my drawings when I don’t know how to say them through words.” During her years at Ridgewood High School, Cheng’s artistic style began to evolve as she discovered that painting was her favorite class. She would often spend her free periods drawing, while her teachers offered encouragement and guidance, helping her shape her work and prepare for life beyond graduation. Cheng’s process is simple: she focuses on one project at a time, sketching out her ideas before putting them together to create something new. OCTOBER 2026 |
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This page, left: Cheng reflects on a period of change and starting anew. Right: Cheng’s dog, Sprite, alongside a copy of “The Quiet Years” picture book. Opposite page, top: One of Cheng’s floral works. Bottom: Cheng uses hands and eyes to explore self-judgment and self-comfort.
LOOKING AHEAD As she planned for college, Cheng looked for scholarships and was pleased to discover one specifically supporting visual arts students. In fact, this past June, Cheng was honored as the first-ever recipient of the Visual Arts Scholarship Award from the Ridgewood Arts Foundation (RAF). The New Jerseybased nonprofit funds and celebrates the visual and performing arts through grants, scholarships, initiatives, and events that enrich and educate the local community. RAF recognized her accomplishments at Ridgewood High School’s Senior Awards Night. “I felt very surprised to receive the scholarship, and it has helped to support
my preparation for art school,” she says. Cheng is now majoring in illustration at The School of Visual Arts (SVA) in Manhattan. There, she looks forward to meeting fellow artists from a wide range of backgrounds while continuing to develop her individual style. The transition will give her a fresh canvas to find inspiration, learn from the world around her, connect with like-minded artists, and discover new creative possibilities. “I feel like New York is more artistic and busy, but I will always love the feeling of Ridgewood,” she says. “It is comfortable for me, and my friends are still there.” While Cheng is enthusiastic and
eager about what’s next, she also carries with her the people, places, and memories that have inspired her work along the way. One of the projects she is most proud of is a personal picture book called “The Quiet Years,” which she made for her little brother and dedicated to the family’s first pet, a dog named Sprite. She remembers when Sprite came home more than 11 years ago and how he quickly became an important part of the family and household. “Sprite is a really quiet dog,” she says. “He likes sleeping under the couch most of the time but will come out when I have treats or want to take him out for a walk.”
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The printed book serves as a tribute to a loyal companion who has been part of the family for more than a decade, while giving Cheng a keepsake of the memories they have shared together. For Cheng, art is also a way to stay connected to the people and memories that mean so much to her. “Every time I go to a new place or meet new people, I love to tell them all about my pets first,” she says. “I draw my pets and my friends the most.” In addition to her dogs, Cheng has five cats and enjoys incorporating elements of her pets into her artwork, using materials such as charcoal, watercolor, colored pencils, and pens. Looking ahead, Cheng aspires to create picture books for children. One of her favorite books growing up was “Millions of Cats,” and she hopes to write and illustrate her own stories that offer positive lessons while making reading fun and engaging for young readers. Art has been a constant in Cheng’s life, giving her a way to authentically share parts of herself, preserve memories, and find beauty in the ordinary. Now, as she begins her studies at SVA, she is excited to see where her creative journey takes her. For a closer look at Cheng’s artwork and projects, readers can find her on YouTube: youtube.com/@star-BBK. For more information on the Ridgewood Arts Foundation, check out ridgewoodartsfoundation.org. Courtney Marie Baldovin is a nonprofit communications professional and freelance writer who is passionate about storytelling and highlighting the individuals, businesses, and initiatives that make the area unique. Born and raised in Bergen County, she brings curiosity, a love of learning, and a genuine appreciation for the people and places around her to her writing. OCTOBER 2026 |
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TABLE TO TABLE rescues surplus fresh food, including produce, wholesome dairy, and lean proteins, that would have otherwise gone to waste. Rather than end up in landfills, this nourishing food makes its way onto the dinner tables of families in need. We spoke to Table to Table’s Executive Director, Heather Thompson, to see what’s cooking!
Gather at the Table Mark your calendars for one of the premier culinary events of the season, where Ridgewood’s culinary leaders will present an exceptional dining experience in support of Table to Table, New Jersey’s first and largest food rescue organization. BY KRIS PEPPER
HEATHER THOMPSON Table to Table Executive Director Heather Thompson.
What inspired the creation of the Ridgewood Chef’s Table event? This dinner was the brainchild of Chef John Halligan, the co-owner and executive chef at the Park West Tavern, and we could not be more grateful to him and the team of participating chefs. Chef Halligan shared his commitment, along with other Ridgewood culinary leaders, to use their talents to make a difference in the community. Ridgewood has a vibrant restaurant scene and an incredible culture of philanthropy. Bringing these chefs together for an intimate dining experience allows guests to enjoy exceptional cuisine while directly supporting those struggling with food insecurity. It’s going to be an incredible event!
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF TABLE TO TABLE
INTERVIEW WITH
For those unfamiliar with Table to Table, can you explain the organization’s mission and its impact throughout New Jersey? Table to Table is New Jersey’s first and largest food rescue organization. Our mission is simple but powerful: We rescue fresh, nutritious surplus food that would otherwise go to waste and deliver it free of charge to more than 276 community organizations serving our neighbors facing food insecurity. Since our beginning in 1999, we’ve rescued enough nutritious food for more than 266 million meals throughout Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, and Passaic counties. Every day, we bridge the gap between food waste and hunger, ensuring that good food reaches people instead of landfills.
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Why is Ridgewood such an important community for Table to Table’s mission? Table to Table is fortunate to have had a long, rich history with Ridgewood, an amazing community that values service, generosity, and civic engagement. Many of our supporters, volunteers, and food donors live and work in the area. We work with a wonderful group of volunteers from the First Presbyterian Church to rescue food from the Ridgewood Farmers Market each weekend. We partner with dining services across all Ridgewood Public Schools to rescue thousands of pounds of nutritious surplus food from school cafeterias. And that nourishing food goes to places like the YMCA, Ridgecrest Senior Housing, and Children’s Aid and Family Services programs to feed our local neighbors.
This event brings together several renowned local chefs. How did that come to be? One of the most inspiring aspects of Table to Table’s work is the way the culinary community rallies around our mission. These chefs already share mutual respect for one another and a passion for feeding people. When the idea of a collaborative dinner was presented, they embraced it enthusiastically. Their willingness to donate their time, creativity, and expertise speaks volumes about their commitment to helping neighbors in need. Our hats are off to host Chef John Halligan and Chefs: Paul Scheffler, The Park West Tavern & Park Steakhouse; Anthony Bucco, Felina Restaurant; Michael Latour, Latour Restaurant; Conor Browne, Restaurant Lula; Deanne Velikky, Black Magic Bake House. William Brownrigg is the sommelier at Park Steakhouse, with wine pairings provided by Fedway Distributors.
Chef John Halligan, co-owner and executive chef at Park West Tavern.
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Top: Kaleb, one of Table to Table’s dedicated I-Rescue volunteers, with a trunk filled with food from Orchard School in Ridgewood. Table to Table partners with the Ridgewood School District to rescue food from every school throughout the academic year. During the 2025 to 2026 school year, the organization rescued 71,868 pounds of food from over 40 schools in northern New Jersey. Bottom: Table to Table volunteer Edgar picks up an abundance of produce from Secor Farms in Mahwah.
Why is it important to engage local chefs and restaurants in the fight against hunger? Chefs understand food on a deeply personal level. They know the value of ingredients, the importance of nutrition, and the joy that a meal can bring. It is an organic effort for restaurants and chefs to help raise awareness about food insecurity and food waste. Their leadership can inspire others to get involved through donations, volunteering, or attending events like the Ridgewood Chef’s Table.
What can guests expect from the dining experience on Nov. 2? Guests can expect a truly memorable evening. Each chef will prepare a signature course as part of a carefully curated five-course tasting menu, complemented by expert wine pairings. Beyond the incredible food, attendees will have the opportunity to hear the stories behind the dishes, meet the chefs, and learn more about how their support helps rescue food and feed families throughout northern New Jersey. It will be intimate, engaging, and delicious!
Has the demand for your services changed in recent years, and what trends are you seeing? Yes, sadly, demand remains high due to inflation and economic uncertainty. Our community partners consistently tell us they need more fresh food to meet growing demand. Currently, 1.2 million New Jerseyans are food insecure, of which 329,510 are children. That’s about one out of every eight residents.
How do events like Chef’s Table strengthen relationships among businesses, nonprofits, and community members? Events like the Chef’s Table build community, create meaningful connections, and inspire others to make a local impact. It takes a village, and with events like this, guests can see up close and personal exactly how local businesses, chefs, donors, and nonprofit organizations can collaborate to solve problems. If you could leave attendees with one message before they leave the event, what would it be? When the community comes together, we can ensure that good food reaches every neighbor who needs it, instead of needlessly going to waste. Every person in the room is part of that solution. For more information, visit tabletotable.org. OCTOBER 2026 |
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HOM E FRONT
Peanut Butter Granola Bites BY ALIX NEWTON AS THE FALL season brings busy mornings and packed schedules, these Peanut Butter Granola Bites offer the perfect blend of wellness and kid-friendly fun. Quick to prepare, endlessly customizable with favorite add-ins like seeds, dried fruit, or mini chocolate chips, and ideal for grab-and-go breakfasts or lunchbox snacks, these wholesome treats make healthy eating simple, delicious, and something the whole family can enjoy together.
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Peanut Butter Granola Bites Serves: 12 to 16 Prep time: 20 minutes Chill time: 2 hours
INGREDIENTS For the Peanut Butter Granola Bites • 1 cup (80 grams) rolled oats • 1/3 cup (30 grams) ground almonds • 2 tablespoons (30 grams) chia seeds • ¾ cup (180 grams) smooth peanut butter • ½ cup (150 milliliters) maple syrup
INSTRUCTIONS 1. Grease a 12-hole mini muffin tin with butter and set aside. 2. Add the rolled oats, ground almonds, and chia seeds into a medium bowl, then add the peanut butter and maple syrup. 3. Mix everything together until well combined, then scoop a heaping teaspoon of the mixture and fill each of the mini muffin moulds. Flatten them down using a spoon or tamper, then set aside. 4. Melt the dark chocolate, then spoon a layer on top of each granola bite. Put the tin into the fridge and leave it to firm up for two hours. 5. Store in an airtight container in the fridge and eat within 7 days.
Alix Newton is a baking blogger and photographer who, along with her family, recently moved to the U.S. from the United Kingdom. Sharing her tasty food creations is her way of giving back to the community that has welcomed her. Visit Alix online at mykitchensdrawer.com and follow her on social media @mykitchendrawer. OCTOBER 2026 |
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BOOK NOOK
Spooky Season
SPOTLIGHT Dare to be scared! BY WENDY LEES THERE’S NO BETTER time than spooky season to venture outside of your reading comfort zone. If you’re already a thriller fan, the crossover to horror novels is not as big a leap as you may think. From classic monsters to serial killers and recent releases, these six books will get under your skin and haunt you beyond the final page.
DRACUL
by Dacre Stoker and J.D. Barker Fact and fiction bleed together Dacre Stoker pulls the cloak back on the purported origins of the gothic horror novel “Dracula.” His great-granduncle Bram Stoker was bedridden as a child. Near death at age seven, he mysteriously and miraculously recovered. Was he cured or cursed? When Bram submitted his “Dracula” manuscript 40 years later, why did he claim it was a true story?
THE CHESTNUT MAN
by Søren Sveistrup (translated by Caroline Waight) Slow-burn Nordic noir hunt for a serial killer Someone is brutally murdering mothers around Copenhagen and leaving a tiny figure made of chestnuts as his calling card. Even more baffling, each doll bears the fingerprint of a young girl who disappeared a year ago. How can police catch the serial killer when he always seems one step ahead of them? Craving more dark crime? Check out the sequel, “Hide and Seek.”
KISS SLAY REPLAY by Rachel Harrison
The dreadful eternal wedding Willa is dreading attending the wedding of her two close friends. Her ex will be there, and he’s bringing a date. But that’s a very thin slice of the multi-tiered terror ahead. A masked killer crashes the reception and slashes through the wedding guests. Cut to her waking up, and Willa thinks it was just a bad dream. Until she realizes it’s the morning of the wedding all over again.
MAZYWOOD
by Tananarive Due Careful what you wish for Mazelle Washington, the lonely daughter of vaudeville performers, makes a fateful wish that catapults her to stardom in the Golden Age of Hollywood. Decades after her death, her grandson, a struggling filmmaker, discovers his famous grandmother’s dream come true is actually a living nightmare.
WE USED TO LIVE HERE by Marcus Kliewer
Is she losing her home or her sanity? Eve is home alone when a family of five comes knocking. The father claims he grew up in the house. Could he come in to show his family around? She should tell them no, but they’re standing there freezing on her doorstep. Surely evil doesn’t arrive with a wife and kids in tow…or does it?
THE WITCH (RELEASING OCT. 6) by Freida McFadden
A haunting tale of buried family secrets Unable to afford her Manhattan apartment after losing her job, Julia retreats to her aging grandmother’s estate in rural Massachusetts. Every night, the grandfather clock stops at exactly 3:41 AM, the lights flicker, and a disembodied voice cries for help. In 1692, the manor owner’s first wife was accused of witchcraft and executed. Is her ghost haunting the house, refusing to remain silent?
Wendy Lees is the Marketing & Adult Programs Coordinator for Worth-Pinkham Memorial Library in Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey. She also runs one of the library’s three book clubs, is part of the Book Concierge personalized book recommendation team, and is semi obsessed with talking about books with fellow readers. As the library’s social media manager, she still calls her mom whenever the library goes viral.
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9/15/26 3:38 PM
WE’RE SEEING SPOTS! THIS COMPELLING SHOT was taken with an iPhone 15 Pro Max. Photographer Brian Jones said, “I took this picture in my friend’s yard in Ridgewood. It was a lucky shot at 5x zoom—I happened to be close enough, and they didn’t run away!” Have your iPhones ready—send us your pictures to share at editor@ridgewoodmag.com.
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Have a great image for Photo Op? Submit your high-resolution shot to editor@ridgewoodmag.com
PHOTOGRAPH BY BRIAN FRANCIS JONES
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