Ridgewood plans spring vendor festival alongside bridal and pride celebrations

The Village of Ridgewood is gearing up for a vibrant spring season with the announcement of a spring vendor festival set to coincide with Bridal Day and Pride Day celebrations. The festival will take place at Van Ness and promises a day filled with music and community fun, inviting residents to come out and enjoy the festivities.

In a recent meeting, Ridgewood officials addressed community safety concerns following a series of burglaries in the area. Police Chief Lyons held a session with approximately 60 residents, discussing practical steps to enhance home security. Recommendations included activating home alarms and improving outdoor lighting. The police department plans to reconvene with residents later this month to provide updates on ongoing investigations.

Additionally, the community came together for a vigil honoring the 26 victims of a recent tragedy in India, attended by around 200 people. Local leaders expressed their condolences and solidarity during this poignant gathering.

In a significant development for local heritage, the council discussed a grant request from the James Rose Center for historic preservation. The proposed $50,000 grant aims to fund the replacement of deteriorating windows and doors, as well as the restoration of the center's exterior staircase. Kevin Rose, the center's associate director, emphasized the importance of these repairs for maintaining the historic integrity of the site, which attracts visitors from around the world.

The grant application is part of a larger effort to secure funding for necessary renovations, with the center committing to a 25% match of the total project cost. The council expressed strong support for the initiative, recognizing the center's significance as a cultural asset in the community.

As Ridgewood prepares for these events and initiatives, the focus remains on fostering community spirit, enhancing safety, and preserving the village's rich history. Residents are encouraged to participate in upcoming activities and stay informed about local developments.