SINGING AS ONE THE ORPHEUS CLUB MEN’S CHORUS EARTH DAY BEGINS WITH YOU HOW TO HELP LOCALLY
Preserving History GIRL SCOUT CAITLYNN ALBARELLA
The Orpheus Club Men’s Chorus blends 116 years of musical excellence with enduring camaraderie as it begins a new chapter under its first female music director.
to preserve artifacts after a tour of the Hermitage, Girl Scout Caitlynn Albarella earned her Gold Award by refurbishing a historic boat.
aAFTER MONTHS OF gray skies and heavy coats, the light shifts, the daffodils push through, and April is here!
There’s an unmistakable sense of renewal—not just in our gardens, but in our spirits. Spring has a way of reminding us who we are and what we love about this community. In our Living Well feature, we look at the health benefits of honey: Nature’s golden remedy is a timehonored staple with surprising wellness perks.
We are also spotlighting the enduring legacy of the Orpheus Club, Ridgewood’s beloved men’s
chorus. Their story is one of tradition, talent, and the kind of fellowship that strengthens a town. And speaking of tradition, you’ll meet an extraordinary young woman from Ho-Ho-Kus whose Girl Scout Gold Award project beautifully bridges past and present. With care, research, and determination, she restored and rebuilt the historic Rosencrantz rowboat now displayed at The Hermitage. Read on to see how stewardship of our shared past isn’t just for historians; it can begin with a teenager who sees something worth saving.
RAGGO
As always, I am grateful for the individuals and organizations who open their doors and share their stories with us. On behalf of the magazine staff and publishers, we’d also like to recognize and thank our generous advertisers, who ensure that our beautiful publication is delivered to your mailbox every month.
Whether you’re flipping these pages on your porch with a cup of tea, reading between errands, or saving the issue for a quiet Sunday morning, I hope you find something that inspires you.
Here’s to fresh starts and the simple joys of watching things bloom.
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.
PHOTOGRAPH BY MARJORIE
Bring Spring to Life!
Take part in all Ridgewood and Ho-Ho-Kus have to offer this April and bring the family to these special events you don’t want to miss.
BY REBECCA BLEICH
EASTER IN THE PARK
When: Saturday, April 4; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Memorial Park Van Neste Square
Celebrate Easter with the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce. Start the morning with a Ben & Jerry’s Easter Egg Hunt followed by an exclusive photo-op with the Easter Bunny himself. With vendor tables with games, chalk, and music by School of Rock Waldwick, it is bound to be an afternoon full of fun.
For more information, visit: ridgewoodchamber.com.
THREADS OF LOVE KNITTING OUTREACH
When: Tuesday, April 14; 7 to 8 p.m.
Where: Art Studio, Ridgewood Public Library; 125 North Maple Ave., Ridgewood
Join the Ridgewood Public Library to knit or crochet beanies for babies or hats, scarves, mittens, and gloves for children and adults. This event is for those with stitching skills and requires you to bring your own needles. All creations will be delivered to The Grace Project and donated to those in need.
For more information, visit: ridgewoodlibrary.org.
Registration required
LIT LADIES BOOK CLUB
When: Tuesday, April 7; 7 to 8 p.m.
Where: Ho-Ho-Kus WorthPinkham Memorial Library
Have you been looking for an excuse to read classics written by women? The Worth Pinkham Memorial Library can answer that call and give you lively discussions about books written by notable ladies. This event is part of a three month series with different books every month, starting with “Jane Eyre.”
For more information and to register, visit hohokuslibrary.org.
Registration required.
LUNCHEON, TALK, & BOOK SIGNING WITH FRANCES PALMER, AUTHOR OF
“LIFE WITH FLOWERS”
Join The Women Gardeners of Ridgewood for a seated, catered luncheon and talk by inspirational author, Frances Palmer at West Side Presbyterian Church on Saturday, April 18, 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $50 in advance, $55 at the door. Get your tickets online at womengardenersofridgewood.com.
AMERICAN GIRL SOCIAL
When: Monday, April 20; 4 to 5 p.m.
Where: Auditorium, Ridgewood Public Library, 125 North Maple Ave., Ridgewood
Tag along with Molly, Kirsten, Samantha, Julie, and the entire American Girl gang for a special get together. Participants are encouraged to bring their dolls as guests and must be ages 4 and up. Light refreshments will be served.
For more information, visit ridgewoodlibrary.org.
Registration required
CHILDREN’S AID AND FAMILY SERVICES CASINO NIGHT FUNDRAISER
When: Thursday, April 16; 6:30 to 10:30 p.m.
Where: The Terrace; 299 Paramus Rd., Paramus
Join the Children’s Aid and Family Services for an exciting evening filled with games, great energy, and a meaningful community impact. Spend the night playing blackjack, poker, roulette, craps, and enjoy the buffet dinner and open bar. Become a part of the community and enjoy the special evening honoring Chief of Police Joseph Delaney IV.
For more information, visit cafsnj.org and ridgewoodchamber.com.
CANASTA LESSONS
When: Tuesday, April 21, 28; 6 to 8 p.m.
Where: Ho-Ho-Kus Worth-Pinkham Memorial Library
Looking to learn a new game or skill, the Worth Pinkham Library offers beginner Canasta lessons that can make you a card master. Follow this four-class schedule and learn a new card game to show off to your friends and family.
For more information and to register, visit hohokuslibrary.org.
Registration required; Ho-Ho-Kus residents given priority.
NEWCOMERS GALA
When: Friday, April 24; 7 to 11 p.m.
Where: The Brick House, 179 Godwin Ave., Wyckoff
Save the date for the Ridgewood Newcomers Annual Newcomers Gala. Join them for a memorable night full of friends, food, an open bar, entertainment, and a silent auction. Tickets are posted on the Ridgewood Newcomers website.
For more information, visit ridgewoodnewcomers.com.
Registrations and tickets required.
Rebecca Bleich is a recent graduate of Ramapo College, where she majored in journalism and writing.
GROWING EDIBLE FLOWERS
When: Monday, April 27; 7:30 to 9:00 p.m.
Where: Sycamore Community Church; 32 Sycamore Ave., HoHo-Kus
Come join the blooming garden community and learn how to grow beautiful edible flowers. Dazzle your taste buds and elevate your culinary creations by joining a free growing edible flower class with Ho-Ho-Kus Garden Club.
For more information, visit hohokusgardenclub.com.
Earth Day Begins With You
Celebrate Earth Day alongside the bees right outside your home.
BY STACEY ANTINE, MS, RDN, HEALTHBARN USA
AS THE SUN warms the soil and the first green shoots push through the earth, spring reminds us that life is always ready to begin again. After a long winter, we feel it too: the pull to step outside, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature’s rhythm.
And at the heart of this seasonal awakening is a small but mighty force: the honey bee.
WHY HONEYBEES MATTER
Honeybees are far more than producers of golden sweetness. They are essential pollinators, responsible for fertilizing nearly one third of the food we eat. Apples, blueberries, cucumbers, almonds, pumpkins, and countless other fruits and vegetables depend on bees transferring pollen from flower to flower.
And yet, many of us fear them.
Last summer, our camp counselors at HealthBarn USA shared that several children were hesitant to enter the garden because there were “too many bees.” Some adults felt the same way. I saw it as the perfect teachable moment.
We invited Ridgewood Village Council Member Frank Mortimer, who is also a Cornell University Master Beekeeper, author of “Bee People and the Bugs They Love,” and owner of Frank’s Honey, to assess the garden for safety.
Once he confirmed everything was perfectly safe, he shared something powerful with the campers: At that moment, they were the only pollinators in the park. Unless we disturbed the bees, they had no interest in us. It became one of the most meaningful lessons of the
summer. Fear turned into fascination. Children who once stood at the garden’s edge began peacefully sharing space with these essential workers of nature.
As Frank explains, “Two out of every three bites of food we eat are thanks to the honeybee. Most fruits and vegetables rely on honeybees for pollination, and without them, our diet would be far more limited and far more bland. Throughout Bergen County, they pollinate our trees, shrubs, plants, and flowers. helping preserve the natural beauty of our Village.”
The sweetest byproduct of all that work is honey. Bees visit roughly two million flowers to produce just one pound. To do so, they travel up to three miles from their hive, totaling approximately 56,000 combined flight miles for every pound of honey made.
THE GIFTS BEES OFFER US
Beyond agriculture, honeybees provide remarkable benefits:
1. Nutrient-rich honey, containing natural antioxidants and antimicrobial properties
2. Beeswax, used in clean beauty products and natural candles
3. Propolis, long valued for its immune-supporting compounds
4. Royal Jelly, rich in unique fatty acids and bioactive compounds.
5. A living model of cooperation and community
A hive thrives through teamwork, communication, and shared purpose. Each bee plays a role in sustaining the whole. There is something deeply inspiring about that—especially at a time when connection and collaboration matter more than ever.
A COMMUNITY THAT LEADS
It is no coincidence that Ridgewood became New Jersey’s first designated Bee City in 2017 through the national Bee City USA initiative. This distinction reflects a local commitment to pollinator education, habitat preservation, and pesticide awareness.
Our Village is also home to 11 active beekeepers who care for hives, mentor newcomers, and quietly ensure pollination continues right here in our own backyards. Their dedication supports our gardens, parks, and local food systems in ways many of us may never see but benefit from daily.
When we plant with pollinators in mind, we strengthen not just our environment, but our community.
CELEBRATE EARTH DAY IN RIDGEWOOD
One of Ridgewood’s most anticipated community events, the Daffodil Festival & Earth Day Fair, will take place on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.
This hands-on event features eco-friendly vendors, interactive exhibits, and sustainability workshops for the entire family. Stop by the HealthBarn USA table to create seed balls that help pollinators thrive in open spaces and forest edges.
You don’t need a green thumb to live a green lifestyle, just a commitment to small, mindful actions that benefit our planet. Join the movement. Do your part for Mother Nature.
KEEP BEES BUZZING
Earth Day offers a perfect opportunity for simple, meaningful action:
1. Plant native flowers. Choose varieties that bloom from early spring through late fall to provide continuous nourishment.
2. Avoid chemical pesticides. Many common lawn treatments harm pollinators.
3. Let some “weeds” grow. Early blooms like dandelions and clover are vital food sources for emerging bees.
4. Provide water. A shallow dish with stones gives bees a safe place to land and drink.
5. Support local honey. Purchasing from area beekeepers sustains their work and strengthens local pollination efforts.
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.
6. Educate children. When young people understand that food begins with flowers and bees, they develop lifelong respect for the natural world.
AWAKENING WITHIN
As we celebrate Earth Day this April, remember that environmental stewardship doesn’t require grand gestures. It begins with noticing— planting a single pot of flowers and choosing kindness toward even the smallest creatures that sustain us.
The bees are already awake, moving from blossom to blossom with purpose and grace. Perhaps this is our invitation to do the same.
For more information, visit healthbarnusa.com.
Bergen New Bridge
Singing as One
The Orpheus Club Men’s Chorus blends 116 years of musical excellence with enduring camaraderie as it begins a new chapter under its first female music director.
BY KRIS PEPPER
OON AN OCTOBER evening in 1909, eight men gathered in the Ridgewood home of Frank R. Pawley with a simple idea: to form a men’s singing club. A week later, 10 men met in a room in the First National Bank Building, paying 75 cents a night to rehearse. By 1911, they were presenting their first public concert at the old Ridgewood Opera House.
From those modest beginnings, the Orpheus Club Men’s Chorus was born.
Today, over 116 years later, Orpheus remains a vibrant musical force and, according to its history,
the oldest cultural institution in Bergen County. What began as a small local singing club has evolved into a respected regional ensemble of 37 men from across Bergen County and beyond.
They rehearse every Wednesday evening at the Unitarian Society of Ridgewood. Tenors, baritones, and basses stand together—many of them long retired from careers in business, law, medicine, and education. Some have been with the chorus for more than 30 years. Others joined in the last season or two. All are united by a love of choral singing and friendship.
Music Director
Dr. Argine Safari
BROTHERHOOD IN HARMONY
Chairman of the Board of Trustees Bob Husband, a 20-year member, describes the bond this way: “Over the long history of the club, several things are common through all those years. The love of choral singing, the seriousness of study and approach, and the wonderful camaraderie enjoyed by the choir. All the guys really pull for each other. We work really hard mastering the music and still find time to laugh with each other. The men find rehearsal a joy rather than a chore. It’s a chance to retreat from the stresses of everyday life and concentrate on music making and the laughter of true friends.”
It is that balance of musical discipline and genuine friendship that defines Orpheus. Husband says one of his favorite parts of membership is the transformation that happens in rehearsal.
“When we first start rehearsing a piece, it’s hard to visualize how the harmonizing of the four voice
ranges will blend and balance into a coherent whole,” he explains. “We may be struggling with a particular piece early in the process, but eventually, we come through, and the piece transforms from something pedantic and disjointed into something almost magical.”
DISTINGUISHED PERFORMANCES
Throughout its long history, Orpheus has performed on impressive stages including the 1926 Philadelphia Sesqui-Centennial Celebration of the Declaration of Independence, the 1940 and 1964 New York World’s Fairs, NBC Radio Studios in 1950, the dedication of Ridgewood’s Kasschau Bandshell in 1958, Lincoln Center in 2005, Carnegie Recital Hall in 2013, and Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in 2019, to name just a few.
They have also welcomed many distinguished guests over the decades, including composer Percy Grainger and renowned sopranos Eleanor Steber, Denyce Graves, and Barbara Dever.
Yet just as meaningful as those marquee moments are, it’s the local performances that define the group’s identity as a community entity.
Ridgewood Winterfest, the Fourth of July Parade, Memorial Day services, Flag Day ceremonies at The Valley Hospital, concerts at the Paramus Veterans Home, and collaborations with local arts organizations such as the Ridgewood Symphony, the New Jersey Wind Symphony and the Ridgewood Chorale define the group.
“All our guys understand the responsibility to uphold the long traditions and history of the club to give quality performances that hopefully enrich and inspire our audiences,” says Husband. “In today’s divided cultural environment, Orpheus seeks to help our community respect one another and grow in spirit. Music has a unique capability to bring together folks of all races, backgrounds, and interests to join together as a community.”
Members work together to learn new music.
THE NEXT GENERATION
That belief in music as a unifying force extends beyond the stage. The club sponsors the Roland L. Meyer Scholarship, awarded to a graduating high school senior who has demonstrated extraordinary accomplishment in music and plans to continue studying at the collegiate level.
Over the past 20 years, scholarships have gone to singers and musicians—both men and women—representing genres ranging from opera and classical to rap. Orpheus also administers the Levy Family Scholarship, established by accompanist Ron Levy in memory of his parents.
A HISTORIC NEW CHAPTER
As proud as the chorus is of its history, it is also in a period of transition—and renewal. For more than three decades, Orpheus was led by longtime music director John Palatucci. Following his retirement in 2022, the chorus began searching for its next artistic leader.
In December 2024, they welcomed a guest conductor who would soon make history.
Dr. Argine Safari, an accomplished conductor, vocal coach, and collaborative pianist, became the first woman to serve as the club’s Music Director in its 116-year history. A past conductor and pianist with the Grammy Award-winning Brooklyn Youth Chorus and Director of Choirs at Pascack
Valley High School, Dr. Safari brought both artistic distinction and a deep understanding of community building.
“I had known about Orpheus for many years and had attended their concerts, so I already had a deep respect for the group and its musical tradition,” she says. “I was also fortunate to be invited to bring my all-male a cappella group, Bro Squad, to perform on one of their concerts, which gave me an early chance to connect with the members and experience the spirit of the group firsthand.
“Then, serving as guest conductor for the December 2024 concert gave the members a chance to get to know me better—and it gave me something just as important: the realization that I truly loved working with this chorus. So, when
Above: A program from the Orpheus Club’s New York World’s Fair performance in 1940.
Ron Levy, the brilliant assistant director and collaborative pianist, reached out to ask whether I’d be interested in the music director position, I really had no doubts. By that point, I had seen the artistry, the tradition, and the heart of the group up close, and it felt like a very natural and joyful next step.”
Safari is careful to emphasize that tradition and innovation are not opposing forces.
“For me, tradition and innovation are not opposites. With a group like Orpheus, the tradition is the foundation, not something to ‘replace.’ I’m excited about programming that keeps Orpheus grounded in its core identity while broadening the musical palette in thoughtful and innovative ways.”
She envisions concerts with stronger thematic shape, blending classic men’s chorus repertoire with close-harmony selections, vocal jazz, and contemporary choral works—all while preserving the signature Orpheus sound.
“One of the moments that stayed with me was guest conducting Orpheus and realizing, mid-rehearsal and then again in performance, that this was not just a chorus with a great sound; it was a true community,” Safari reflects. “You can feel when a group is simply singing notes, and you can feel when a group is singing for each other and with each other. With Orpheus, I felt the second one immediately. I remember thinking: ‘This is a group that works hard, likes to be challenged, sings beautifully, and still
knows how to laugh,’ which is basically my favorite rehearsal combination.”
SINGING INTO THE FUTURE
As they look toward future goals— growing membership back to prepandemic levels, expanding audiences across Bergen, Essex, and Morris counties, and increasing scholarship funding—one thing remains constant: the sound of men standing together, breathing together, and lifting their voices as one.
Husband recalls one particularly moving encounter after a snowy winter concert at Ridgewood United Methodist Church. An elderly woman, who had walked four blocks in the cold, lingered to warm up before heading home. She told him how much the music meant to her. Moments like that remind the men of Orpheus why they sing.
As Safari puts it, “We sing as one!”
The Chorus’ spring concert will be held on May 2 at Pascack Hills High School in Montvale. Tickets are available now at ridgewoodorpheusclub.org.
Choir member and Board of Trustees chair, Bob Husband
Keeping History Afloat
Inspired to preserve artifacts after a tour of the Hermitage, Girl Scout Caitlynn Albarella earned her Gold Award by refurbishing a historic boat.
BY SARAH NOLAN
IIT WAS ON A long-planned tour of the Hermitage in Ho-Ho-Kus last spring that Caitlynn Albarella first saw a decrepit old rowboat sitting on the front lawn of the historic landmark.
A stop on the tour of the property that’s steeped in history, the boat belonged to the Rosencrantz family, members of which occupied the Victorian house for more than 150 years up until 1970.
With rotted wood, exposed hardware jutting out from the dilapidated frame, and grass growing between disintegrating bottom slats, it would be hard to imagine the fun times had on the boat, but for a plaque displaying a photo of the family detailing the outdoor activities they enjoyed.
In the picture taken circa 1890, the Rosencrantzes stage a bucolic rowing scene, far from the water, on a carriageway in front of the home.
“It was clear from the photo that
they had a sense of humor,” Albarella, a junior at Northern Highlands Regional High School and Girl Scout, says. “It intrigued me, and the idea that the boat needed refurbishing was initially just a thought in the back of my mind.”
Months later, thanks to community outreach, fundraising presentations, and hundreds of hours of hard physical work, the restoration of the rowboat is complete.
For the project, Albarella earned her Gold Award—the highest distinction in Girl Scouts, along with a deep appreciation for community and the importance of keeping history alive.
“My favorite part of this project was connecting with people and seeing the impact you can have,” she says. “From senior citizens to kids in the Brownies, it was inspiring to see how a common interest in learning more about your community spans generations.”
Above: A sign next to the rowboat shows members of the
a photo in the boat.
Top: Albarella with members of the Ho-Ho-Kus Police Department. The Scout said the officers helped spread the word about her project by posting about it on the department’s Instagram page.
Rosencrantz family staging
The contractors helped create the letter “H” for the boat, preserving a piece of history. Albarella with the Big 3, the boat she refurbished. Albarella as a Brownie.
Clockwise from above: Albarella holds a salvaged piece of the original rowboat with Mike Spoelstra of Braunius Brothers in Midland Park.
GOING FOR THE GOLD
Albarella says when it came time to think about what she might do for her Gold Award project, she reached out to Nancy Moses, the volunteer grounds coordinator at the Hermitage, to see how she could help.
Though several opportunities were discussed, the scout says the rowboat was the one she felt most connected to and wanted to tackle.
Given the state of the badly decomposed rowboat, Albarella says there wasn’t much to save; she knew she would first need to find a similar wooden boat to work on, incorporating salvageable pieces of the original.
She began scouring the internet for a boat approved by the Hermitage board and eventually found one in Plymouth, Massachusetts, named the Big 3.
Albarella says it’s fitting that the boat, which came from a city known as the birthplace of American ideals,
now rests at the Revolutionary War landmark in Ho-Ho-Kus.
“The name Big 3 honors the shared spirit between these historic places: the pursuit of religious liberty, the fight for political independence, and the commitment to preserving legacy,” she says. “It reflects three enduring values that define both journeys from the Mayflower to the American Revolution—courage, hope, and new beginnings.”
Albarella says she relied on the help and support of Northern Highlands educators and local business owners for her project.
A lifelong crafter, Albarella has always loved art, taking on numerous projects throughout her scouting years, and has expanded her love of creating with more hands-on projects. Refurbishment of the rowboat included cleaning, scraping, and sanding before priming and painting it.
“It was a big learning experience, and I learned as I went,” she says. “It was really just a matter of reaching out to people for guidance, and they were all wonderful and so helpful.”
Albarella sought the advice of experts at Waldwick Paint & Wallpaper Company for help finding sustainable outdoor paints that will stand the test of time. She researched historic colors that might have been used on the original boat. The chosen colors were gray with deep red accents.
It was important to the scout to incorporate the original rowboat into the project. She brought one piece that was salvageable to Braunius Brothers General Contracting in Midland Park, where they helped her create an “H” from the wood to represent the Hermitage.
Moses, a former teacher, says Albarella’s commitment to the project was remarkable.
“She’s an outstanding young lady, and
Opposite page: Albarella with Nancy Moses, the volunteer grounds coordinator at the Hermitage.
This page: Albarella restored a rowboat and salvaged what she could of the original to create a lovely scene on the front lawn of the Hermitage and return the boat to its glory.
she really took the reins on this project. Caitlynn is good with communication and follow-up. She really saved the day when it came to this piece of the Hermitage history,” Moses says. “Docents giving tours would joke before the restoration that this was the boat because it was so broken down. Now we have a lovely display.”
Albarella says sustainability is a big part of the Gold Award project. To ensure the boat holds up, she drilled holes in the bottom and displayed it on a pitch so rainwater and snow can drain. A cardboard base (which younger Girl Scouts helped collect and contribute), topped with rocks, was used to keep weeds away from the boat.
Albarella says the project took about six months, and she recently received approval for it to receive her Gold Award; a ceremony will be held next month.
“I built so many friendships through the Girl Scouts and really appreciate those core memories and experiences with fellow scouts,” she says of wrapping up with the program. “The Gold Award is a wonderful thing to work toward and gave me the ability and opportunity to actually go out into the world and make a difference.”
Albarella says teachers, including her ASL instructor, Shannon Rodenberg; Career and Academic Pathways Supervisor, Kimberly Hayes; and Principal, Joseph Occhino, were particularly helpful in her journey. And of course, Moses—the scout says she is incredibly encouraging and makes volunteering at the Hermitage fun.
“This place is kind of magical; once you come here and do something, you get taken in,” Moses says. “We’re so grateful for students like Caitlynn who express interest.”
Albarella says she has enjoyed educating the community about her project and hopes many future generations will enjoy the rowboat.
“In the end, the scene feels complete with the boat resting quietly on the Hermitage lawn,” she says. “It is waiting for community members to visit and learn the incredible history at the Hermitage in Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey.”
For more about Albarella’s project, search “Girl Scout Gold Award Project - the Hermitage Historic Rowboat Restoration” and “The Big 3 Legacy at the Hermitage in NJ” on YouTube.
Sarah Nolan is a writer with a passion for telling people’s stories. A Ho-HoKus native, she believes in the power of local journalism to connect and inform residents and foster a sense of community.
A Coveted SPOTLIGHT
Two Ridgewood High School ensembles advance to the regional semi-finals.
BY KRIS PEPPER
TWO PERCUSSION
ENSEMBLES
from Ridgewood High School have been selected by the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center (CMS) to perform in the Young Musicians Regional Concerts, a distinguished honor in the highly competitive world of student chamber music.
Each year, CMS invites student ensembles from across the tri-state area to apply for the prestigious program. From a pool of more than 100 applicants, only a select few are chosen to participate in live, adjudicated regional semi-final concerts, making Ridgewood’s dual selection particularly noteworthy.
The first RHS ensemble—Ava Fontus, Anderson Joseph, Will Burton, and Jason Lee—delivered a powerful performance of “Marimba Spiritual” on Feb. 19. Their technical precision, musical maturity, and dynamic ensemble work reflected the depth of training within the RHS music department and earned them a place on the regional stage.
The second ensemble, composed of Sora Kumita and Joshua Oh, performed “Lucky Nashville” on March 3 at Great Neck South High School in Long Island. Their performance further demonstrated Ridgewood’s strength in percussion and chamber collaboration.
A PATH TO LINCOLN CENTER
Selection for these regional concerts represents a significant milestone.
Following the semi-final rounds, a group of finalists will be chosen to advance to a final performance at Lincoln Center, one of the nation’s most iconic stages.
If either Ridgewood ensemble is selected as a finalist, they will receive professional coaching from world-renowned Chamber Music Society musicians in April, culminating in a performance at Lincoln Center in early May.
“The selection of two percussion
groups speaks volumes about the dedication of our students and the strength of our music program,” says Director of Jazz and Percussion and AP Music Theory teacher Gary Fink. “We are incredibly proud of these young musicians for reaching this level of artistry and look forward to the next round of results.”
For RHS, the moment underscores not only individual talent but also a culture that fosters discipline, collaboration, and artistic excellence—qualities that resonate well beyond the classroom walls.
Opposite: Ava Fontus, Anderson Joseph, Will Burton, and Jason Lee perform “Marimba Spiritual.”
This page: Joshua Oh and Sora Kumita
Stronger With Every Season
Richard Edelstein, studio owner of The Exercise Coach, helps adults build strength, stay active, and redefine what aging looks like.
BY KRIS PEPPER
SPRING HAS A WAY of waking us up. The days grow longer, the air feels lighter, and suddenly, we’re eager to get back outside and be more active. But for many older adults, there’s a realization that the body doesn’t always respond the way it used to. Stiff joints, reduced strength, and concerns about balance can make oncesimple activities feel daunting.
That’s where Richard Edelstein of The Exercise Coach in Midland Park and Hillsdale comes in. Through brief, sciencebased strength training sessions designed specifically for adults, he’s helping clients not just exercise but reclaim confidence, mobility, and the ability to stay active for decades to come.
This month, Rich shares insights on building muscle, improving balance, boosting metabolism, and why it’s never too late to get stronger.
For someone who hasn’t exercised in months (or years), what’s the safest way to start?
At The Exercise Coach, we begin with a baseline assessment, which helps us determine a plan for our client to begin controlled, joint-friendly movements performed at a safe pace. Because sessions are only 20 minutes and fully coached, there’s no guesswork, no wandering around a gym, and no risk of overdoing it. The focus is on quality over quantity and gradual, measurable progress.
Can exercise really help “hold back” the aging process? What does the science say? Yes—especially strength training. Research consistently shows that resistance training preserves muscle mass, improves bone density, supports cognitive health, and reduces fall risk.
We naturally lose muscle starting in our 30s (a process called sarcopenia), but strength training signals the body to maintain and rebuild lean tissue. In many ways, it helps reverse aspects of biological aging. At The Exercise Coach, we focus specifically on the type of stimulus that tells your body, “Stay strong. Stay capable.”
INTERVIEW WITH RICHARD EDELSTEIN
What types of exercise are most effective for maintaining muscle mass and bone density as we age?
The gold standard is progressive resistance training. While walking and cardio are great for heart health, they don’t provide enough load to maintain or build muscle and bone in the long term. Bones respond to resistance. Muscles respond to tension, so we incorporate controlled resistance, appropriate intensity, progressive overload, and measurable strength tracking to drive muscle retention and bone support.
How does strength training impact metabolism after 40 or 50?
After 40, metabolism often slows primarily because we lose muscle mass—and not just because of age. Muscle is metabolically active tissue. The more lean muscle someone has,
the higher their resting metabolic rate. Strength training helps rebuild lost muscle, improves insulin sensitivity, increases post-exercise calorie burn, and supports hormonal health. We often see clients in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond improve body composition without increasing cardio simply by building strength consistently.
What are some signs of age-related muscle loss?
Early signs include feeling weaker when carrying heavy items, having difficulty getting up from the floor, slower walking speed, decreased balance, and fatigue with daily tasks. Prevention is simple but powerful: train your muscles consistently. Just two focused strength sessions per week can dramatically slow and even reverse muscle loss when done correctly.
Is it ever too late to start building strength and improving mobility? It is never too late to start! We have clients in their 70s and 80s—many with no prior exercise experience—making measurable strength gains for the first time in their lives. The body is remarkably adaptable at any age when given the right stimulus. The key is proper coaching, appropriate resistance, and smart, gradual progression. In addition to strength training, we also offer an assisted stretching program that identifies individual mobility limitations and addresses them with a personalized plan. This targeted approach helps improve flexibility, joint function, and overall movement quality safely and effectively.
Can exercise help people with balance problems?
Absolutely. Many balance issues stem from muscle weakness, particularly in the hips and legs. Strength training will improve lower-body strength, enhance coordination, build confidence in daily movement, and reduce the risk of falls. As clients get stronger, they naturally move with more stability and control. Our 6-month Balance Transformation Program specifically targets the systems that influence balance, including cognitive processing, proprioception, and vestibular function.
Often, we see meaningful improvements in balance simply as a result of building strength. When combined with focused balance training, the results can be even more significant.
What makes your approach different from a traditional gym setting?
1. Personal coaching for every second of every workout.
2. Only 20 minutes, one to two times per week.
3. Data-driven technology. We track strength objectively.
4. Controlled tempo and jointfriendly movements.
5. Focus on measurable progress.
Traditional gyms emphasize volume. We emphasize results.
Can you share a success story that reflects how exercise has changed a client’s quality of life?
One of our clients, who was in her mid-60s, came to us feeling frustrated. She hadn’t exercised in years, was worried about bone density, and felt “weak and older than she should.”
Within a few months, her strength scores improved, she reported better posture and less back discomfort, and she felt more confident walking and traveling. Even her doctor noted improved markers at her annual checkup. But the biggest win? She told us she felt “capable again.”
That’s what this process is really about—not just building muscle, but preserving independence, confidence, and quality of life.
For more information, visit exercisecoach.com.
Turn the Page to Spring
BY WENDY LEES, WORTH-PINKHAM MEMORIAL LIBRARY, HO-HO-KUS
THERE’S SOMETHING so compelling about books that take you from the crime scene to inside the courtroom. Can we solve the case before the book reveals the truth? As armchair jurors, do we pick up on clues the characters missed? When injustice is served, we long for the wrong to be righted. These five riveting reads make a strong case for adding them to your reading list.
Wendy Lees is the Marketing & Adult Programs Coordinator for WorthPinkham Memorial Library. She also runs one of the library’s three book clubs, is part of its 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.
THE GIRL FROM GREENWICH STREET
by Lauren Willig
America’s First Murder Trial
What really happened on the night Elma Sands disappeared from her Quaker boarding house? Weeks later, her body was found at the bottom of a well, and a local carpenter stands accused of her murder. Can Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton set aside their bitter rivalry and quest for personal glory to defend their client successfully? Based on the historic Manhattan Well Murder Trial that captivated New York City in 1800.
Join us for a free author talk with Lauren Willig on Sunday, April 12, at 2 p.m. at The Hermitage (335 North Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus). Seating is limited. Reserve your spot at hohokuslibrary.org/events.
PRESUMED GUILTY
by Scott Turow
Author of Presumed Innocent (a New York Times bestseller, box office hit, and record-setting Apple TV+ drama)
Nearly 40 years ago, hotshot lawyer
Rusty Sabich beat his own murder charges. Now a retired judge, he returns to the courtroom to defend his fiancée’s adult son when he’s arrested for killing his girlfriend. A flimsy alibi and a history of drug addiction make the case far from a slam dunk. And if his client didn’t do it, who did it?
TWO KINDS OF STRANGER
by Steve Cavanagh
No Good Deed Goes Unpunished
Eddie Flynn is a conman turned
criminal defense attorney, so he’s got the street smarts that other lawyers lack. Each book in the Eddie Flynn series is a standalone and can be read in any order. In “Two Kinds of Stranger,” Eddie represents a social media influencer whose random act of kindness at a subway station leads to her being accused of murder.
MIRACLE CREEK
by Angie Kim Courtroom Drama with No Easy Answers
Single mother Elizabeth’s 8-year-old son is undergoing an experimental treatment in a hyperbaric chamber when he is killed by an explosion. Elizabeth is accused of intentionally causing the blast to escape the demands of parenting a special needs child. But was it premeditated murder, a tragic accident, a case of negligence, or something else entirely? And who truly bears the blame?
THE SON DOES SHINE
by Anthony Ray Hinton
Memoir: Sentenced to Death Row for Crimes He Didn’t Commit
Anthony Ray Hinton spent nearly 30 years on death row for murders he did not commit. He’d professed his innocence since his arrest, but police and the legal system swept aside the pursuit of the truth in favor of a speedy conviction. Read his inspirational story that follows his fight for justice all the way to the Supreme Court.
Follow the Worth-Pinkham Memorial Library on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok: @hohokuslibrary.
BY
PHOTO OP
River are a sight to see.
PHOTOGRAPH
LINDA ROBINS
you. Everything medicine can do. A few things medicine can’t. At Valley-Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Care, our team of doctors bring the experience and commitment required to address all aspects of prostate, bladder, kidney, and testicular cancer. Surgical tools including da Vinci Xi® and NanoKnife® are minimally invasive approaches to help you heal quicker and maintain quality of life. Our Think Five program can reduce radiation treatments for prostate cancer to only five. Our specialists will design a treatment plan around you, and our nurse navigator will guide you every step of the way.
To find the approach that’s best for you, call 201- 634- 5567 or visit ValleyHealth.com/UrologicOncology.
