STACEY ANTINE ON FEEDING THE COMMUNITY ALL THAT GLITTERS
OUR LOCAL HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
A Legacy of Service
JIM AND JOANNE CHARLES
Salt & Sky Wellness blends advanced aesthetic treatments with whole-body wellness, focusing on both outer beauty and inner balance. Services often combine medical-grade skincare, natural therapies, and lifestyle support to rejuvenate the skin, restore vitality, and promote overall health. The goal is not just to enhance appearance, but to nurture mind, body, and spirit for long-lasting, radiant results.
All is calm, All is BRIGHT
Don’t forget to
and
by love and commitment to their community, Ridgewood residents Joanne and Jim Charles reflect on the importance of service and music.
Go for the gold this holiday season with gift ideas that shine! 20 Cooking up Care
Stacey Antine, founder of the HealthBarn Foundation, is changing the lives of families in need through food. We got an inside look at her work, where she’s providing nourishing meals for all.
aCELEBRATING GENEROSITY AND COMMUNITY
AS THE YEAR draws to a close, Ridgewood once again shines with the light of generosity, compassion, and connection (in addition to its beautiful, downtown Christmas tree) that make this community so special. The December issue provides a moment to reflect on the people and traditions that bring warmth to even the coldest days.
We’re proud to feature Stacey Antine, founder of the HealthBarn Foundation, who has been named the Tomorrow’s
Children’s Fund Ambassador of Hope. Stacey’s tireless work nourishing both body and spirit through the Healing Meals program has touched countless lives. Her story reminds us that sharing our gifts, time, and talents creates ripples of goodwill far beyond what we can see.
We also meet Dr. James Charles and his family, whose legacy of service and community spirit in Ridgewood continues to inspire generations. They reflect the very best of what it means to call this Village home.
Ridgewood MAGAZINE
Publisher Karen Stires
Editor
Kris Pepper
Writers
Stacey Antine, RD
Rebecca Bleich
Mark Kossick
Kris Pepper
Lorri Steinbacher
Photographer Adam Paray
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman
Carroll V. Dowden
BY MARJORIE RAGGO
For those seeking the perfect holiday surprise, our gift guide is filled with local treasures. From jewelry to home décor and unique finds, these pages serve as a reminder that some of the best gifts come not from faraway places, but from our own neighborhood shops.
Finally, we wrap up the year with highlights from Ridgewood High School’s Distinguished Alumni event, honoring three graduates who continue to make a mark in the world while carrying a piece of Ridgewood pride wherever they go.
As you gather with loved ones this season, may you find joy in simple moments, gratitude in giving, and inspiration in the stories shared within these pages. Wishing you a peaceful, joyful, and hopefilled holiday season.
Warmly,
Kris Pepper Editor editor@ridgewoodmag.com
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
SVP, Group Publisher
Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy
Maria Regan
Creative Director
Kijoo Kim
Art Director
Rosemary O’Connell
Executive Editor
Elaine Paoloni Quilici
Associate Editor
Sophia Carlisle
Advertising Services Director
Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director
Catherine Rosario
Production Designer
Chris Ferrante
Print Production Manager
Fern Meshulam
Advertising Production Associate
Griff Dowden
Ridgewood Magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Ridgewood, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained here in do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
PHOTOGRAPH
Bring the Holiday Season to Life
Ridgewood’s December events have something for everyone.
IT’S AN ANNUAL TRADITION: December in Ridgewood is packed with spectacular events and festive opportunities to spend quality time with family and friends during the holiday season.
From community-centered events to exceptional musical performances, the Village offers sparkling moments of joy for every age. So, gather the whole family to embark on a month-long adventure of creating, learning, and celebrating all that our town has to offer.
This year’s program features selections from Handel’s “Messiah,” along with festive works by John Rutter, David Willcocks, and Ryan Brandau.
RIDGEWOOD MENORAH LIGHTING
When: Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025; 5:30 p.m.
Where: Memorial Park at Van Neste Square
Celebrate the start of Hanukkah with Ridgewood at its annual menorah lighting. Join the community at this beautiful festival of lights to kick off the holiday season.
For more information, visit www.ridgewoodnj.net.
CHRISTMAS CONCERT AND TREE LIGHTING
When: Friday, Dec. 12, 2025; 7:30 p.m.
Where: Our Lady of Mount Carmel, One Passaic St.
Come experience the annual tree lighting and concert at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church. Experience the spirit of Christmas through music and lights.
For more information, visit www.olmcridgewood.com.
SANTA MEET & GREET
When: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2 to 4 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 13 and 20, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Memorial Park at Van Neste Square
Celebrate Christmas all month long by meeting Santa and sharing your list with him this holiday season. The Village of Ridgewood hosts this annual event, where kids can meet Santa and take a photo with him—fun for the whole family and a memory that will last for years.
For more information, visit: www.ridgewoodnj.net.
HOLIDAY BREAK CAMP
When: Monday, Dec. 29 through Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: HealthBarn, 1057 Hillcrest Rd.
Celebrate 20 years of healthy fun at HealthBarn by ringing in the New Year during your holiday break. Each day is filled with cooking, games, hands-on learning, and nature hikes. Learn and have fun as you wrap up the year and kick off 2026 feeling healthy and happy. Registration required; $125 (1 day), $240 (2 days), $345 (3 days).
Visit www.healthbarnusa.com for more information and to register.
JANE AUSTEN 250TH BIRTHDAY SCREENING AND DISCUSSION: “PRIDE AND PREJUDICE”
When: Tuesday, Dec. 16; 1 to 3 p.m.
Where: Auditorium, Ridgewood Public Library, 125 North Maple Ave.
Commemorate Jane Austen’s actual birthday with a screening of one of her greatest love stories, “Pride and Prejudice,” at the Ridgewood Public Library. Watch the 2005 adaptation of the beloved novel and stick around for the discussion to follow. Registration Required.
For more information and to register, visit www.ridgewoodlibrary.org.
CHAMBER HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
When: Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025; 6 to 8 p.m
Where: Location TBD
The Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce invites residents and members to celebrate the holidays and network at their Chamber Holiday Celebration. Support the community while coming together for the holidays.
For more information, visit www.ridgewoodchamber.com.
Experience a show like no other with an exceptional performance of “Legally Blonde the Musical” brought to you by The Broadway Originals. Gather the family and enjoy “Broadway” right in your backyard.
For more information, visit www.ridgewoodchamber. com/ or www.thebroadwayoriginals.com
SUNDAY CONCERT: THE JACKIE SCHILLER ALACORDE PIANO TRIO
When: Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025; 2 to 3 p.m
Where: Auditorium, Ridgewood Public Library, 125 North Maple Ave.
Spend the afternoon listening to the musical stylings of The Jackie Schiller Alacorde Piano Trio at the Ridgewood Public Library. Embrace the art of classic works by Enescu, Brahms, and more—a beautiful experience for the whole family and a concert unlike any other. No registration required.
For more information, visit www.ridgewoodlibrary.org.
Rebecca Bleich is a recent graduate of Ramapo College, where she majored in journalism and writing.
Sweet Traditions
‘Tis the season of the cookie swap! Embrace warm-hearted traditions with these cookie swap ideas.
BY STACEY ANTINE, MS, RDN
THE HOLIDAYS ARE a joyful time of year. Growing up, my mom always baked an irresistible assortment of cookies passed down from her mom—from buttery snowballs and delicate horns to classic chocolate chips. The aroma filled our kitchen with warmth, and, of course, an assortment plate was always left out for Santa as a sweet thank you for the gifts under the tree.
Over the years, I’ve been invited to friends’ homes to bake and sample their own family favorites: Sicilian almond cookies, Dutch shortbread cookies, German gingerbread cookies—each treat sharing a story of heritage, love, and togetherness.
A cookie swap is one of the sweetest ways to celebrate the holidays and to share joy, tradition, and community spirit. Invite friends and family to bake their favorite cookies, then gather to sample, swap, and savor each one.
Here are fun, creative, and heartwarming ideas to make your holiday cookie swap extra special, whether you’re hosting at home, school, or in the community
1. THEME YOUR SWAP: Sharing the Spirit of the Holidays Beyond the Table
• Around the World Swap: Each guest bakes a cookie from a different country. Think Italian biscotti, Swedish thumbprints, or Mexican wedding cookies.
• Santa’s Favorites Swap: Everyone brings their best cookie for Santa’s plate.
• Healthier Holiday Treats Swap: Focus on whole grains, nuts, dried fruit, or honey-based recipes that are delicious and wholesome.
• Retro Recipes Swap: Bake cookies inspired by childhood or family heirloom recipes.
2. SHARE THE STORY BEHIND THE COOKIE:
• Ask each guest to bring a recipe card and a short story—maybe where the recipe came from, or who taught them to bake it.
• Create a keepsake recipe booklet or digital PDF for everyone to take home.
3. MAKE IT INTERACTIVE:
• Cookie Decorating Station: Sugar cookies, icing, and creativity!
• Cookie Awards: Fun categories like “Most Festive,” “Best Story,” “Healthiest Twist,” or “Santa’s Favorite.”
• Secret Cookie Swap: Like Secret Santa, but everyone exchanges cookies anonymously!
4. SET THE MOOD:
• Create a cozy playlist (think Bing Crosby meets Michael Bublé), light some candles, and make sure everyone
INGREDIENTS
1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
Gingerbread Cookies
The holiday season is a wonderful time of year to bake cookies. If gingerbread cookies top your list, you will love this slimmed-down favorite. Bake and decorate as a family to fill your kitchen with happiness and the delicious aromas of the season. This scratch dough also bakes well using gluten-free flour. Kids of all ages love making the icing and designing the cookies. Enjoy!
½ cup molasses
½ cup brown sugar, packed
leaves with a warm heart and a full cookie tin.
• Set up a Hot Cocoa Station for extra cookie swap fun.
At HealthBarn, one of our favorite traditions is our annual Gingerbread Workshop, where families come together to bake and decorate our signature gingerbread recipe. Cookies are packaged with words of encouragement for families with children with cancer and distributed through our Healing Meals program at local hospitals during the holidays. Of course, our bakers can’t resist sampling a few with milk; it’s all part of the fun! This year’s workshop is scheduled for Dec. 6. Check our website for details!
Stacey Antine, MS, RDN, is the founder of Ridgewood’s HealthBarn USA and author of “Appetite for Life.” She is a national expert in family nutrition and has appeared on the Rachael Ray Show, CNN, PBS-TV, and hundreds of broadcast, print, and social channels.
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ginger, ground
2 teaspoons cinnamon, ground
¾ teaspoon sea salt, ground
½ teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon baking powder
½ cup sunflower oil
INSTRUCTIONS
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
ICING INGREDIENTS
1 cup powdered sugar 4 teaspoons milk, low-fat (or water)
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place parchment paper on baking sheets.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine flours, ginger, cinnamon, salt, cloves, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a small mixing bowl, add oil and molasses and whisk well until combined. Then, add brown sugar, vanilla extract, and egg, and mix until thoroughly blended.
4. Fold liquid ingredients in small bowl gradually into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. If the dough is dry add 1 to 2 teaspoons of water until it forms. Divide dough into two balls. Cover the dough balls with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for approximately one hour.
5. Sprinkle flour on your work surface. Roll out one ball of dough until it is ¼ inch thick. Repeat with the second ball of dough.
6. Use cookie cutters or a knife to carefully cut shapes. Place the cookie shapes onto the baking sheets, leaving ½ inch space between the cookies. Combine the dough scraps and re-roll them, until all dough has been used.
7. Bake in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Cool for 1 to 2 minutes, and transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
8. While the cookies are baking, combine powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl and mix well. If you desire a thinner consistency, add more milk. Put icing into a plastic bag and cut the corner for piping.
9. Once cookies are completely cool, pipe signature designs with icing and enjoy!
Makes 20 servings (2 cookies per serving).
A Family Legacy of Service
Driven by a marriage of love and commitment to their community, Ridgewood residents
Joanne and Jim Charles reflect on the importance of service, music, and love for this town.
BY KRIS PEPPER
FFOR JOANNE AND Jim Charles, life’s story is written in both science and harmony. Their marriage—rooted in medicine, music, and mutual respect—has shaped a life of service, both to their patients and to the Ridgewood community they’ve called home for more than three decades.
A SERENDIPITOUS BEGINNING
Their story began in 1978 at Saint Mary Hospital in Hoboken, New Jersey. Joanne, one of the first nurses in New Jersey to earn a Master of Science in Nursing from Hunter College, was working as a nursing supervisor. Jim, then a fourth-year
medical student at Rutgers Medical School in Newark, happened upon a flyer—“literally fallen from the sky,” as he recalls—that advertised a primary care elective on Joanne’s floor. Fate stepped in, and their paths crossed.
“Joanne rapidly elevated her career from staff nurse to nursing supervisor, to managing the development of the nursing staff at Palisades-Hackensack Meridian Medical Center,” says Jim. “She also authored a manual for nursing orientation. Upon completing my residency in 1982, we started our neurology practice under her clinical and business leadership, while I treated our patients. Today, she is the practice administrator of a staff of nine professionals. Without Joanne, the practice would not be in existence.”
BUILDING A HOME IN RIDGEWOOD.
In 1994, the couple moved to Ridgewood with their two daughters, Christine and Francine. “The quality of the schools and community of people who share the same goals continues,” Jim reflects. “Joanne and I observe that the community went from child/parent 30 years ago to child/parent/grandparent. It’s amazing how we are not the only grandparents at the games and concerts—which is an affirmation of the town’s solidarity. Many seniors are not moving out of Ridgewood.”
Their daughters thrived in the Ridgewood public schools—Christine as section leader for the marching band flute section, and Francine as a clarinetist performing in all-state and north regional ensembles. Both have carried their parents’ example of service forward: Christine is now an
oncology nurse, and Francine earned a master’s in math education from New York University.
Today, the next generation carries on the Charles family’s musical legacy. “We have six grandchildren ranging in age from seven to 15 who play the following instruments: trumpet, percussion, oboe, cello, piano, and clarinet,” says Jim. “When Christine and Francine played the flute and clarinet at Ridgewood High School, the program was topnotch—as it is now with our older grandchildren.”
MUSIC, LEARNING, AND THE MIND
For Jim, medicine and music are deeply connected. “I grew up poor in Jersey City and lived in a tenement building,” he recalls. “The public schools offered three instruments with group lessons: trumpet,
clarinet, and violin. My parents feared we would be evicted with a loud instrument, so I chose the violin.”
Research—and his own experience—backs the link between music and brain development. “Children who engage seriously in the performing arts often do well academically,” he says. “Consistent musical training enhances connectivity between the two brain hemispheres. Executive functioning, language, and literacy development are also strengthened. Self-discipline, persistence, and collaboration—all key factors in creative problemsolving—are strengthened. Virtually all students in lead roles of plays, choir soloists, and those who sit in the first chair in band and orchestra almost always attend tier-one colleges.”
Left: Jim, Joanne, Christopher (15), Chester, (13), daughter Christine, Eve (10), and Joy (7).
A PARTNERSHIP IN MEDICINE
In addition to their musical legacy, Joanne and Jim have built one of northern New Jersey’s most respected neurology practices, combining compassionate care with academic rigor.
“Thanks to Joanne’s leadership, we have a university-level practice that treats all neurological disorders from ages 10 and up,” Jim explains. “We take in fourth-year Rutgers medical students for a preceptorship in neurology.”
Jim holds subspecialty certification in headache medicine and directs the Headache Treatment Program for refractory migraines at Holy Name Medical Center—one of the few such programs in the region, even though migraines are one of the most common
causes of disability in those under the age of 50, with 50% of migraine patients left undiagnosed or treated incorrectly.
“Myths such as impacted molars, wrong glasses, sinus headache, and psychic stress are rampant,” he notes. “Once a child or teen reaches six headache days per month, there is a high risk of progression to chronic migraine.”
Jim’s program offers hope for migraine sufferers through infusion therapies that can break cycles of pain lasting days or even weeks. “For patients with chronic refractory migraine (more than 15 headache days per month), the Headache Treatment Program at Holy Name is renowned for its success in both New York and New Jersey.
A LIFE WELL-LIVED IN RIDGEWOOD
Community life remains central to the Charles family’s story. “Joanne and I were band parents and were part of a committee that procured the first band truck for the marching band,” Jim shares.
“I play violin in the Ridgewood Symphony, and in the music ministry of the Church of the Presentation, which has many Ridgewood parishioners. It’s where Carnegie Hall meets Catholic mass!”
Jim also served as the orchestra director of Jamboree for eight years after their last daughter graduated, and as a volunteer with the Ridgewood Education Foundation, where he secured a significant donation and organized the teen health series.
Joanne was the treasurer of Friends of Music and continues to be a member of the College Club.
The couple cherishes the small-town traditions that make Ridgewood special.
“The tree lighting ceremony and the elation of seeing the first band truck delivered to the Ridgewood High School marching band are fond memories for us,” Jim says. “Living two blocks from the high school, our house was an open house for our daughters and their friends. Now our oldest grandchild at the high school is enjoying the same campus open house with his friends.”
The Charles family’s story is a beautiful testament to Ridgewood’s enduring sense of community. After 46 years of marriage, Joanne and Jim still find joy in the rhythms of family, friendship, and faith, and appreciate the blessings of embracing family and friends throughout Ridgewood.
Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Jim practicing his violin. Jim rehearsing with the Ridgewood Orchestra. Musically inclined: The Charles’ grandchildren play multiple instruments including trumpet, percussion, oboe, cello, piano, and clarinet.
This page, top left: Christopher and Christine.
Above: Jim and Joanne enjoying a Ridgewood Marching Band performance with grandson, Christopher
All That Glitters
Go for the gold this holiday season with gift ideas that shine!
BY KRIS PEPPER
Sparkle This Season
These gifts bring a bright light to the cold winter days.
of
and
and
An assortment
Matte
Shimmer Eyeshadow palettes from Bobbi Brown and Curator, highlighting powder in Rose Glow by Laura Mercier, Moulton Brown gift sets and bath and shower gels, Oribe Gold Leaf Repair,
Restore Conditioner, Glasshouse candle, from Blue Mercury
Nest and Glasshouse holiday candles, Blue Mercury
from top
Poinsettias and kalanchoes in glimmering, gold containers, Sunroom Plants
Maison Gitane by Katie Diamond Dear Heart Velvet Pouch, The Hive
Clockwise
left: Gilded Heart Necklace (top) and Amor Luxe Heart Necklace, The Hive
Celebrate your favorite host or hostess with the “mostess” and arrive with a memorable gift!
Clockwise from top left: Twisted handle
wooden fork and spoon, The Hive
Cloudy quartz hexagon frame, The Hive
Olive oil and balsamic vinegar pairing, Olive R. Twist
Good People hostess napkins, The Hive
Clockwise from top left: Hsieh Clay
Gilded Floral Handmade Heart and 5-inch Handmade Floral Shaped Dish in White Linen, The Hive
Cotton pink and gold block print table runner, The Hive
Character Planter and Succulents, Sunroom Plants
Cypress Indoor Plant, Sunroom Plants
Red Aglaonema, Sunroom Plants
Cooking up Care
Stacey Antine, founder of the HealthBarn Foundation, was recognized as the Tomorrow’s Children Fund’s Ambassador of Hope in September.
WStacey Antine is changing the lives of families in need through food. We got an inside look at her work, where she’s providing nourishing meals for all.
BY KRIS PEPPER
WHEN RIDGEWOOD resident Stacey Antine, MS, RDN, founder and director of the HealthBarn Foundation, learned she had been named the Tomorrow’s Children’s Fund (TCF) Ambassador of Hope, her thoughts immediately turned to the journey that started it all.
“This honor brings back so many wonderful memories—it feels like no time has passed at all,” Antine says. “10 years ago, TCF said ‘yes’ to offering Healing Meals to families in need, and that powerful partnership continues today. This honor belongs to all of us—our volunteers, partners, and supporters who make this impact possible every day.
WHERE COMPASSION MEETS NUTRITION
HealthBarn’s partnership with TCF began more than a decade ago through Healing Meals, a volunteerpowered initiative providing
wholesome, homemade meals to families whose children are undergoing treatment for cancer and blood disorders. The idea came from a deeply personal place.
“When my dad was diagnosed with cancer, my mom and I became his caregivers,” Antine recalls. “After long days at the hospital, it was difficult to prepare nutritious meals. That experience inspired me to find a better way.”
When Stacey published her first book, “Appetite for Life,” TCF invited her to teach nutrition at the hospital.
“I realized providing ready-to-go meals would be more helpful than just teaching about them,” she says. “That was the spark for Healing Meals.”
Within months, a community of support formed—No Fuss Lunch in Haledon offered kitchen space, Bergen Academies’ culinary students volunteered, and Whole Foods Market
Ridgewood supplied ingredients. From there, the program grew to hundreds of volunteers, private donors, and grant support.
NOURISHING HOPE
Healing Meals has become a cornerstone of comfort for families in crisis. Each week, volunteers prepare balanced, kid-approved meals, soups, and baked treats that are frozen and stored in hospital freezers for easy access by social workers.
“These meals are more than food,” Antine says. “They’re a message that someone cares, that families are not alone during such a difficult time.”
Antine’s education and experience as a registered dietitian ensure that each meal is thoughtfully crafted with a nourishing balance of protein, whole grains, and healthy fats, plus plenty of freshly chopped vegetables. It’s wholesome, flavorful food that families love, and with ingredients that support strong bodies, healthy minds, and healing. Each package includes four servings and a nutrition analysis—a small but meaningful way to extend care to the entire family.
Every Tuesday night, the kitchen at No Fuss Lunch transforms into a hive of activity. Volunteers—from 5-yearolds to 85-year-olds—chop, stir, and
package wholesome meals together.
“Every week, we see parents cooking alongside their children, scout troops working with seniors, and corporate teams jumping in to help,” Antine shares. “The energy is contagious. It’s fun, fast-paced, and deeply rewarding.”
Groups from across the region, including service organizations, schools, and local businesses, contribute to the effort, embodying Ridgewood’s strong sense of community.
“Together, we are making a difference—one meal, one act of kindness, and one family at a time,” Antine says.
Opposite page: HealthBarn is located at 1057 Hillcrest Rd. in Ridgewood.
This page, left: Participants at the 10th Annual Tomorrow’s Children Fund’s 5k Run/ Walk on Sept. 14, 2025, at the Ridgewood Duck Pond.
Below: Antine, right, along with Healing Meals recipients.
HealthBarn kids testing out Antine’s “famous” gingerbread cookie recipe.
FEEDING MORE FAMILIES
Although Healing Meals initially focused on supporting pediatric cancer patients, the program’s reach expanded significantly during the pandemic.
“When hospitals could no longer accept outside meals due to their patients’ compromised immune systems, we pivoted to serve seniors and families through Ridgewood Social Services and Ridgecrest Senior Housing,” Antine says. “Then, we partnered with Feed the Frontlines, which distributed $4.6 million worth of restaurantprepared meals to food pantries across Bergen and Passaic counties.”
Even after hospitals reopened, Healing Meals continued to support local food pantries, including the
Franciscan Community Development Center in Fairview and the Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative (BVMI).
“Our productivity keeps growing,” Antine notes. “As benefits shrink, the need is rising, and Healing Meals is rising to meet it.”
AMBASSADOR OF HOPE
At the 10th Annual Tomorrow’s Children’s Fund 5K Run/Walk on Sept. 14, 2025, held at the Ridgewood Duck Pond, Antine was honored as the Ambassador of Hope.
“I accepted this recognition on behalf of all the incredible Healing Meals volunteers,” she says. “Together, we remind families that they are loved, supported, and cared for, and we couldn’t ask for a better partner than TCF.”
As Healing Meals continues to grow, Antine’s message remains as heartfelt as ever: “Follow your heart, because that’s where your passion lies. We were all blessed with our own individual talents that are gifts. Put those talents into action to help others. The world needs good people with generous hearts.”
Her vision for the future is simple yet powerful: “We’ll keep delivering on our mission of gifting nutritious food when it’s needed most, and we’ll stay grateful for the partnerships that make it all possible.”
For more information on how to get involved, visit www.healthbarnfoundation. org/healing-meals.
Ridgewood’s Past Grads Inspire the Future
RHS’s Alumni Association honors past grads whose impact reaches far beyond the classroom.
ON A BEAUTIFUL LATE October homecoming weekend, the Ridgewood High School Alumni Association inducted three new members into their Distinguished Alumni family, the highest honor bestowed upon RHS alumni.
This year’s inductees included: renowned dog-rescue advocate and pioneer, Peter Rork (class of 1971); visionary education leader and LearnerStudio founder, Kim Smith (class of 1985); and Edward R. Murrow award-winning journalist and TV
BY MARK KOSSICK
host, Willie Geist (class of 1993). Each delivered heartfelt and memorable remarks that captured the spirit of the occasion.
Peter Rork spoke first, tracing his roots back to being one of seven siblings to graduate from Ridgewood High School in the 1960s and 1970s.
After a long and distinguished career in medicine, most notably as the orthopedic surgeon for the U.S. Ski Team, he combined his passion for aviation and animals to create the nonprofit Dog Is My CoPilot. Since its
founding, he and his organization have rescued more than 43,000 animals.
Kim Smith spoke next, sharing her journey in education and tracing it back to her roots in the Ridgewood school system. She emphasized the importance of human agency, human potential, and learning as a path to opportunity. From her early work at Teach for America to founding the nonprofit LearnerStudio, Smith has built a career around exploring questions such as, “What do young people need to be inspired and
Left to right: Honorees
Peter Rork, Kim Smith, and Willie Geist
prepared to thrive in the age of AI?” Her work continues to shape the future of education and inspire the next generation of thinkers and leaders.
Finally, Willie Geist closed the program and brought down the house. He shared stories of how Ridgewood has played an integral role in his life, from his first on-stage appearance as the lone boy in the all-girls orphanage in “Annie,” to some of his most memorable moments at RHS. Geist also thanked the coaches who helped shape him as a young man and the journalism teacher who inspired his career path. His reflections were a moving tribute to the community that helped launch his career and continues to mean so much to him today.
Immediately following the awards ceremony, guests were invited to a late brunch to mingle and take photos with the inductees. The event drew RHS alumni who were in town celebrating milestone class reunions, including the classes of 1965, 1985, 1990, and 1995. Many attendees continued the celebration by touring Ridgewood High School, with tours coordinated by the Alumni Association in collaboration with school officials.
The 2025 Distinguished Alumni Ceremony was a heartfelt celebration of achievement, community, and the lasting impact of Ridgewood High School. From inspiring speeches to reconnecting with classmates and touring the halls that shaped them, the weekend highlighted the enduring bonds between alumni and their alma mater. As homecoming weekend came to a close, it was clear that the achievements of this year’s inductees and the enduring spirit of the Ridgewood community will continue to inspire future generations and uphold Ridgewood’s Tradition of Excellence.
For more information, visit www.rhsalumniassociation.org.
Mark Kossik is the Ridgewood High School Alumni Association President.
Attendee “mugshot” with Sunday Today host, Geist.
Remembering their RHS experiences on the alumni stage. Geist, Smith, and Rork at the Distinguished Alumni “Wall of Fame.”
BOOK NOOK
It’s Cozy Season!
If you’re looking for the perfect accompaniment to a fuzzy blanket and a cup of tea, these character-driven books will make any snowy day a little bit brighter. Looking for another cozy day activity? Some of these selections have also been adapted to film.
BY LORRI STEINBACHER
MURDER BY CHEESECAKE
by Rachel Ekstrom Courage
What could be cozier than a mystery featuring “The Golden Girls”? When a date Dorothy meets via a VHS dating service winds up dead during a Miami wedding, the Girls work together to clear her name.
THE PUMPKIN SPICE CAFÉ
by Laurie Gilmore
When Jeanie agrees to help run her aunt’s café in a quaint Vermont town, she finds community, purpose, and perhaps a little romance. This is a comic/romantic mystery for “Gilmore Girls” fans and anyone in whom the pumpkin spice aesthetic runs strong.
THE JANE AUSTEN BOOK CLUB
by Karen Joy Fowler
Five women and one man gather to discuss Jane Austen’s novels, only to find that their own lives begin to mirror the themes and emotions of her books. It’s Jane’s 250th birthday year, so what better time to add this to your TBR list?
CHOCOLAT
by Joanne Harris
A mysterious woman and her daughter open a chocolate shop in a conservative French village, awakening hearts and minds to sweetness, joy, sensuality, and maybe just a hint of magic. Chocoholics and Francophiles will be in heaven.
CIRCLE OF FRIENDS
by Maeve Binchy
In 1950s Ireland, childhood friends Benny and Eve navigate love, betrayal, and growing up at university in Dublin. There are times when you just want to steep in the coziest, sweetest world filled with characters you can get behind. This book is for one of those times.
THE STORIED LIFE OF A.J. FIKRY
by Gabrielle Zevin
A curmudgeonly bookstore owner’s life is transformed by a mysterious package left in his shop, leading to unexpected love and second chances. Reminded me a little of BBC’s Doc Martin: a social misfit who gets a small town to love him despite all of his best efforts and to his chagrin. A story about grief, community, and the power of stories to heal.
STILL LIFE WITH BREAD CRUMBS
by Anna Quindlen
A once-famous photographer retreats to a cabin in the woods to reinvent herself and unexpectedly finds love, inspiration, and a simpler life. If you’re looking for a love story populated by quirky characters and a small town vibe, this is for you.
A STAR IS BORED
by Byron Lane
A snarky, semi-autobiographical
novel about a man who becomes assistant to a demanding Hollywood star, inspired by Lane’s experience with Carrie Fisher. Hilarious, heartbreaking, and unexpectedly tender—celebrity life meets emotional truth. Recommended for people who like Hollywood stories with heart.
THE FORGOTTEN GARDEN
by Kate Morton
Cassandra much-loved grandmother, Nell, has just died, and Cassandra is lost and grieving. An unexpected bequest from Nell turns Cassandra’s life upside down, and she has to rethink everything she thought she knew about Nell, her family, and herself.
THE EX-GIRLFRIEND MURDER CLUB
by Gloria Chao
When Kat, Olivia, and Elle discover they’ve all been dating the same man they decide to get revenge. When the harmless prank goes horribly wrong, these ex-girlfriends need to find the real killer before they all go down for murder. Who says murder can’t be funny?
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.
Performance worthy of Broadway
The Volvo XC90 transforms every drive into a captivating experience, featuring premium Bowers & Wilkins audio and supportive seats developed in collaboration with orthopedic surgeons for maximum comfort.
Discover the Volvo XC90 at your local Tri-State retailer.
