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Joining from a studio in southern England, Host Jeanne Johnson welcomes incumbent Village Council candidates Siobhan Winograd and Evan Weitz to Ridgewood Talks for 2026 election coverage. Evan and Siobhan clarify that they are running separate campaigns for two open seats but they do endorse each other, then share personal background and prior public service. Winograd and Weitz discuss major Ridgewood issues including the long-delayed Schedler property plan (historic house, park amenities, and a proposed turf multipurpose field), property taxes and spending priorities, grants and public-private partnerships, downtown economic development through the Special Improvement District and Ridgewood Business Alliance, the pedestrian tunnel remediation and potential public art, efforts to preserve the Warner Theatre via an option agreement supporting a Ridgewood Arts Foundation grant bid, parking policies, and council
*** Important Episode Background for Transparency: We invited both Board of Education candidates, Mary E. Micale and Anabelle Andon to participate, but because their election is uncontested, they graciously declined.
We extended invitations to all four candidates running for the Ridgewood Village Council. Because of the special production requirements, there was a cost associated with participating. The cost was to strictly to cover production expenses and were in no way payments for favorable coverage or editorial influence. Every candidate was offered the same opportunity under the same terms. In return, we agreed to produce and distribute the interviews and highlights through the Ridgewood Talks podcast and social media channels.
HyunJu Kwak did not respond to our invitation, and Denise Pierce-Lima declined to participate.
Only our two incumbent council members, Siobhan Winograd and Evan Weitz accepted and participated in this episode. Neither candidate received the questions in advance.
Episode Chapters:
(00:00) Show Setup Abroad
(00:49) Interview Ground Rules
(02:21) Meet The Candidates
(04:21) Not A Joint Ticket
(05:19) Lightning Round Bios
(07:31) Public Service Records
(14:15) Civic Engagement Push
(14:50) What Makes Ridgewood
(16:50) Schedler Park Debate
(27:36) Taxes Spending Plans
(35:47) Valley Hospital Taxes
(36:53) Business Alliance Explained
(39:01) Beautification and Openings
(42:16) Digital Footprint Push
(44:20) Pedestrian Tunnel Fix
(48:32) Saving Warner Theatre
(55:15) Parking Plans and Passes
(59:08) Transparency and Access
(01:03:56) Building Department Overhaul
(01:06:28) How to Get Involved
(01:07:44) Final Sign Off
Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed about all things Ridgewood, New Jersey!
Evan Weitz Campaign Socials and Web
https://www.evanweitz.com/
Evan Campaign Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/WeitzForRidgewood
Siobhan Winograd Socials and Web
https://winograd2026.com/
Siobhan Campaign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61593754692177
Ridgewood Walks and Talks:
https://www.ridgewoodwalks.com
Ridgewood Talks Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks
This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen County’s premier video podcasting & content strategy service!
Ignite Creator Studios: https://www.ignitecreatorstudios.com/
Theme music by Dave Gross from the album Mandology.
Find the song: Cool it! - on Apple Music Here:
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/david-gross/288722944
And you can find Dave Gross – Mandology on Facebook here:
https://www.facebook.com/DaveGrossMandology
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Jeanne Johnson welcomes Village Manager Keith Kazmark back to Ridgewood Talks to discuss major village updates, including a number of new hires for the village in public works, IT, cybersecurity, building and permits to improve backlogs and improve service for residents and businesses. Kazmark explains the county-ordered property tax reassessment, how values are set, what residents will receive in November, and how to ask questions or later file formal appeals, plus notes on impacts of unpermitted improvements. He outlines senior tax relief programs (PAS application for Senior Tax Freeze, ANCHOR, and Stay NJ), expanded senior bus service, community center renovations, and a senior parking pass. Other topics include affordable housing compliance and special-needs housing discussions, environmental testing at the Walnut/Franklin town garage property, Ridgewood Water PFAS treatment progress and funding efforts, rising utility and healthcare costs, parking management recommendations from Walker, new bus shelter plans, and grants to restore the train-station pedestrian tunnel with potential community art.
(00:00) Show Intro
(01:12) Back with Keith
(01:28) New Public Works Lead
(02:56) IT and Cell Coverage
(04:30) Building Dept Overhaul
(06:28) Why Reassessment Happened
(08:17) Appeals and Notifications
(11:18) Who Goes Up Most
(12:45) Senior Tax Relief
(15:10) Senior Services Upgrades
(20:22) Affordable Housing Update
(22:31) Protecting Green Space ROSI
(23:20) Walnut Franklin Site Testing
(25:02) Ridgewood Water PFAS Update
(28:27) Budget Pressures Utilities Healthcare
(29:44) Public Health Plan Cost Surge
(31:39) Parking Perception and Signage
(36:07) Bus Shelter and Tunnel Grants
(37:39) Community Art Tunnel Mosaic
(39:49) Village Wrap Up and Thanks
Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed about all things Ridgewood, New Jersey!
Ridgewood Walks and Talks:
Ridgewood Talks Instagram:
Ridgewood Talks Facebook:
This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen County’s premier video podcasting & content strategy service!
Ignite Creator Studios:
Theme music by Dave Gross from the album Mandology. Find the song: Cool it! - on Apple Music Here:
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/david-gross/288722944
And you can find Dave Gross – Mandology on Facebook here:
https://www.facebook.com/DaveGrossMandology
Hashtags: #RidgewoodNJ #RidgewoodTalks #BergenCountyNJ #RidgewoodNJPodcast #NorthJersey #BergenCountyNews #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents #NewJerseyPodcast #BergenCountyUpdates #NJPodcast
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Host Jeanne Johnson interviews Steve Grillo (Executive Director) and Corinne Mahoney (Director of Marketing) of the new Ridgewood Business Alliance about how Ridgewood’s Special Improvement District works and what it will do for our local businesses and residents. They explain that the district is funded by property assessments on commercial properties town-wide, enabling long-term planning, business support services, and potential physical improvements, without a municipal financial role. Drawing on their experience building “Explore Millburn Short Hills”, they discuss priorities including data-driven vacancy and business mix analysis, marketing and branding, streetscape and wayfinding, public art, sidewalks, parking management planning, and partnerships with groups like the Chamber and Guild. They also cover grant opportunities (including Main Street), NJEDA resources, potential future staffing, support for a performing arts center effort, and much more.
(00:00) Meet the RBA Team
(02:29) What a SID Does
(05:57) Funding and Assessments
(09:03) Municipal Role and Nonprofit
(10:32) Main Street Program Explained
(12:18) Board and Volunteer Committees
(13:58) Why Ridgewood Needed This
(15:42) How Residents Benefit
(17:17) Working with Chamber and Guild
(19:55) Vacancies and Parking Strategy
(25:41) Streetscaping and Wayfinding
(28:31) Branding and Visitor Appeal
(29:46) Tackling Business Redundancy
(32:37) Retail Site Standards
(33:14) Health Uses Downtown
(34:17) Streetscape and Branding
(35:43) Anchor Stores Strategy
(37:14) Millburn Events Wins
(39:50) Parking Shuttle Idea
(40:40) Performing Arts Catalyst
(42:54) Volunteers and Staff
(46:19) Business Support Services
(48:24) Funding and NJEDA Help
(51:15) Future Goals and Impact
(55:23) Logo Contest and Social
(57:56) Closing and Where To Follow
Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed about all things Ridgewood, New Jersey!
You can follow the Ridgewood Business Alliance here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitridgewood
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18DCNZ3zSA/?mibextid=wwXIfr
This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen County’s premier video podcasting & content strategy service!
Ignite Creator Studios: https://www.ignitecreatorstudios.com/
Ridgewood Walks and Talks:
https://www.ridgewoodwalks.com
Ridgewood Talks Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks
Ridgewood Talks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1291013971028083
Theme music by Dave Gross from the album Mandology.
Find the song: Cool it! - on Apple Music Here:
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/david-gross/288722944
And you can find Dave Gross – Mandology on Facebook here:
https://www.facebook.com/DaveGrossMandology
Hashtags: #RidgewoodNJ #BergenCountyNJ #NorthJersey #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents #NJPodcast
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jeanne Johnson welcomes back Ridgewood Village Manager Keith Kazmark to discuss current village updates, including summer sidewalk and curb-cut work before school, new bump-in parking by Citizens Park/GW School on South Monroe Street, and the NJDOT-funded South Pleasant Avenue resurfacing and bike lane changes. Keith reports the police department will be fully staffed at 49 sworn officers plus SLEOs in schools, and highlights pedestrian and bicycle safety efforts. They cover Citizens Park baseball field upgrades funded by county open space and capital dollars, Ridgewood’s grant success totaling $4.5 million over three years, the upcoming Glen Avenue sidewalk bid, and a new fully signalized Oak and Glen intersection
Chapters
(00:00) Welcome Back
(01:48) School Safety Upgrades
(05:02) Police Staffing Update
(07:00) Citizens Park Improvements
(09:40) Grant Funding Wins
(10:18) Glen Avenue Sidewalks
(11:48) New Glen and Oak Signal
(14:23) Maple Avenue Resurfacing
(17:13) Netflix Comes to Town
(20:12) Schedler Park Explained
(25:40) House and Programming Plans
(27:17) Inclusive Playground Vision
(29:00) Turf Field and Remediation
(32:14) Wrap Up and Next Episode
Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed
This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen
Ignite Creator Studios:
https://www.ignitecreatorstudios.com
Ridgewood Walks and Talks:
https://ridgewoodwalks.com
Ridgewood Talks Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks
Ridgewood Talks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1291013971028083
Theme music by Dave Gross from the album Mandology.
Find the song: Cool it! - on Apple Music Here:
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/david-gross/288722944
And you can find Dave Gross –
https://www.facebook.com/DaveGrossMandology
Hashtags:
#RidgewoodNJ #RidgewoodTalks #BergenCountyNJ #RidgewoodNJPodcast #NorthJersey #BergenCountyNews #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents #NewJerseyPodcast #BergenCountyUpdates #NJPodcast
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Meet the Artist: Eric Santoli’s Journey from Ridgewood to Monet's
Welcome to Ridgewood Talks! In this episode, Jeanne Johnson sits
(00:00) Introduction to Ridgewood Talks
(01:07) Meet Eric Santoli: Ridgewood's Artistic Gem
(02:19) Eric Santoli's Artistic Journey
(07:08) The Therapeutic Power of Art
(17:38) Supporting Local Artists
(21:26) Exploring Grounds for Sculpture
(22:59) Creative Sculptures for Kids
(23:25) Fundraising for Nonprofits
(23:43) Collaborations and Donations
(24:34) James Rose Center and Historical Society
(26:07) Television Show and Local Support
(26:15) Painting and Travel Show
(27:27) Celery Farm and Nature Preservation
(30:20) Colorblind Artist's Journey
(36:30) Motorcycles and Skateboarding
(39:12) Family and Returning Home
(40:29) Conclusion and Future Plans
You can also learn more about Eric on his web-site: https://www.ericsantoli.com/
Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed about all things Ridgewood, New Jersey!
This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen County’s premier video podcasting & content strategy service!
Ignite Creator Studios: www.ignitecreatorstudios.com
Ridgewood Walks and Talks:
www.ridgewoodwalks.com
Ridgewood Talks Instagram:
www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks
Ridgewood Talks Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/1291013971028083
Theme music by Dave Gross from the album Mandology.
Find the song: Cool it! - on Apple Music Here: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/david-gross/288722944
And you can find Dave Gross – Mandology on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/DaveGrossMandology
Hashtags:
#RidgewoodNJ #RidgewoodTalks #BergenCountyNJ #RidgewoodNJPodcast #NorthJersey #BergenCountyNews #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Join host Jordan Kaufman as he welcomes special guest Robert
00:00 Introduction to Ridgewood Talks
00:24 Meet the Hosts: Jeanne and Jordan
01:11 Special Guest: Robert Wolcott
02:08 Rob's Journey to Ridgewood
03:06 Settling into Ridgewood Life
06:06 The Ridgewood Coffee Shop Experience
10:18 Ridgewood: A High School Town
15:18 Parenting and Education Insights
22:33 Balancing Technology and Nature
27:43 The Impact of Screen Time on Children's Development
28:16 Envisioning the Future of Ridgewood
32:30 The Role of Technology in Modern Life
32:49 Debunking Myths About Artificial Intelligence
37:21 The Cognitive Effects of Technology
43:57 Proximity Theory and the Future of Digital Technology
49:37 Making Retail Essential in People's Lives
54:11 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell
Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed about all things Ridgewood, New Jersey!
This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen County’s premier video podcasting & content strategy service!
Ignite Creator Studios: www.ignitecreatorstudios.com
Ridgewood Walks and Talks: www.ridgewoodwalks.com
Ridgewood Talks Instagram: www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks
Ridgewood Talks Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/1291013971028083
Theme music by Dave Gross from the album Mandology.
Find the song: Cool it! - on Apple Music Here:
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/david-gross/288722944
And you can find Dave Gross – Mandology on Facebook here:
https://www.facebook.com/DaveGrossMandology
Hashtags:
#RidgewoodNJ #RidgewoodTalks #BergenCountyNJ #RidgewoodNJPodcast #NorthJersey #BergenCountyNews #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ridgewood Talks: Celebrating Our Community with Jenny Coates
In this episode of Ridgewood Talks, host Jeanne Johnson sits down with Jenny Coates. Jenny shares her dedication to building a stronger Ridgewood community through her volunteer work with Ridgewood Newcomers, the Ridgewood Library Foundation, and the Kasschau Shell Committee. Tune in as they discuss the history and events of Ridgewood Newcomers, the important improvements to the Ridgewood Public Library, the dynamic concert series at the Kasschau Shell, and the unique 4th of July celebrations. Get inspired to volunteer and connect with our vibrant hometown community!
00:00 Introduction to Ridgewood Talks
00:24 Meet the Host: Jeanne Johnson
01:09 Exciting Guest: Jenny Coates
01:35 Jenny's Community Contributions
02:56 Ridgewood Newcomers Club
07:01 SSA and Local Charities
11:18 Sips and Civics Event
17:48 Ridgewood Library Foundation
18:26 Library Renovation Updates
18:31 New Study Spaces and Room Reservations
19:28 Future Renovation Plans
19:54 Supporting the Library's Wishlist
20:07 Libby Licenses and Audiobooks
20:40 Library of Things
21:09 Ridgewood Library's Popularity
21:31 Foundation Events and Fundraising
22:17 Friends of the Library and Programming
24:03 Kasschau Memorial Band Shell
29:11 Volunteering and Community Involvement
29:40 Ridgewood 4th of July Celebrations
32:04 Conclusion and Call to Action
Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed about all things Ridgewood, New Jersey!
This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen County’s premier video podcasting & content strategy service!
Ignite Creator Studios: www.ignitecreatorstudios.com
Ridgewood Walks and Talks: www.ridgewoodwalks.com
Ridgewood Talks Instagram: www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks
Ridgewood Talks Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/1291013971028083
Theme music by Dave Gross from the album Mandology.
Find the song: Cool it! - on Apple Music Here:
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/david-gross/288722944
And you can find Dave Gross – Mandology on Facebook here:
https://www.facebook.com/DaveGrossMandology
Hashtags:
#RidgewoodNJ #RidgewoodTalks #BergenCountyNJ #RidgewoodNJPodcast #NorthJersey #BergenCountyNews #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of Ridgewood Talks, Jeanne Johnson, founder and
00:00 Introduction to Ridgewood Talks
01:30 Welcome to Ridgewood Talks Podcast
02:34 Meet Anthony Cavo: A Man of Many Talents
03:31 Anthony's Early Life and Antique Adventures
11:13 Auctioneering and Medical School Journey
14:19 Life in the West Indies
17:05 Returning to Ridgewood and Career Shift
19:12 Curating at the Schoolhouse Museum
21:00 Creepy Museum Exhibits
21:29 History of Punch and Judy
22:26 Collecting and Storing Artifacts
24:01 Valuable Museum Items
25:27 Upcoming Museum Exhibits
29:38 Fascinating Historical Facts
30:59 Dogs in History
34:23 Books and Publications
41:55 Museum's Role in the Community
43:27 Conclusion and Farewell
Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed about all things Ridgewood, New Jersey!
This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen County’s premier video podcasting & content strategy service!
Ignite Creator Studios: www.ignitecreatorstudios.com
Ridgewood Walks and Talks: www.ridgewoodwalks.com
Ridgewood Talks Instagram: www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks
Ridgewood Talks Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/1291013971028083
Hashtags:
#RidgewoodNJ #RidgewoodTalks #BergenCountyNJ #RidgewoodNJPodcast #NorthJersey #BergenCountyNews #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Exploring Ridgewood Parks & Recreation with Nancy Bigos and Keith Kazmark
In this episode of Ridgewood Talks, hosts Jeanne Johnson dives into everything you always wanted to know about our amazing parks, with special guests Village Manager Keith Kazmark and Nancy Bigos, the
00:00 Introduction to Ridgewood Talks
00:24 Meet the Host: Jeanne Johnson
01:16 Today's Guests: Keith Kazmark and Nancy Bigos
02:51 Nancy's Journey in Parks and Recreation
03:07 The Historic Stable and Community Programs
05:29 Katie Fry's Achievement and Summer Job Fair
08:46 Graydon Pool: A Community Gem
15:25 Parks and Recreation Initiatives
22:42 Volunteer-Driven Sports Community
23:19 Field Maintenance and Responsibilities
24:18 Green Team and Earth Day Festival
25:03 Daffodil Festival Highlights
26:12 Fall Festival Evolution
27:14 Holiday Events and Fire and Ice
28:23 Thanksgiving Tradition and Elder Dinner
30:00 Health Barn Partnership
32:54 New Stable at Tabernacle
34:43 Community Gardens and Open Space
37:02 Future Open Space Initiatives
38:55 Conclusion and Gratitude
Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed
This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen
Ignite Creator Studios: www.ignitecreatorstudios.com
Ridgewood Walks and Talks: www.ridgewoodwalks.com
Ridgewood Talks Instagram: www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks
Ridgewood Talks Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/1291013971028083
Hashtags:
#RidgewoodNJ #RidgewoodTalks #BergenCountyNJ #RidgewoodNJPodcast #NorthJersey #BergenCountyNews #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents #NewJerseyPodcast #BergenCountyUpdates #NJPodcast
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Business Spotlight on Real Estate: An In-Depth
In this episode of Ridgewood Talks and Ridgewood Living Magazine Present, The Business Spotlight. Host Jeanne Johnson sits down with Vivienne Muldoon, a top real estate agent and community business leader. Vivienne shares her extensive knowledge of the local real estate market, the architectural beauty of Ridgewood homes, and the various challenges and opportunities that buyers and sellers face today. She also discusses her personal journey, including her deep roots in the community and her involvement in local initiatives like the RHS Jamboree. Whether you're interested in the dynamics of the Ridgewood real estate market, looking for tips on buying or selling a home, or simply want to learn more about our vibrant community, please watch or listen to this episode for invaluable insights and a great conversation. Please be sure to subscribe to Ridgewood Talks and follow us on socials for the latest episode updates!
00:00 Welcome to Ridgewood Talks
00:13 Expanding Our Vision in 2025
00:47 Business Opportunities with Ridgewood Talks
01:26 Introducing the Business Spotlight
01:56 Meet Vivienne Muldoon: Ridgewood's Top Real Estate Agent
02:30 Vivienne's Journey and Community Involvement
03:54 Exploring Ridgewood's Unique Architecture
04:48 Real Estate Market Trends and Buyer Preferences
09:01 The Importance of Walkability in Ridgewood
13:44 Community Engagement and Jamboree Involvement
15:24 Vivienne's Family and Entrepreneurial Spirit
16:49 Entrepreneurial Spirit and Business Building
17:05 The Importance of Home and Community
17:41 Navigating the Real Estate Market
18:38 Highlighting Unique Home Features
19:42 Client-Centric Real Estate Approach
23:41 Supporting Clients Through Emotional Transitions
27:24 Personal Stories and Community Involvement
29:12 Conclusion and Contact Information
Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed about all things Ridgewood, New Jersey!
This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen County’s premier video podcasting & content strategy service!
Ignite Creator Studios: www.ignitecreatorstudios.com
Ridgewood Walks and Talks: www.ridgewoodwalks.com
Ridgewood Talks Instagram: www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks
Ridgewood Talks Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/1291013971028083
Hashtags: #RidgewoodNJ #RidgewoodTalks #BergenCountyNJ #RidgewoodNJPodcast #NorthJersey #BergenCountyNews #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents #NewJerseyPodcast #BergenCountyUpdates #NJPodcast #RealEstate #BergenRealEstate #NJHomes #RidgewoodHomes
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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