Incoming Editor Excited for New Beginning

"Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end," Roman philosopher Seneca wrote centuries ago. As former editor Sam Fran Scavuzzo's beginning's end moves him to  start up another Patch site in Philadelphia, I begin the second chapter of Ridgewood Patch. In many ways, the village too appears poised to begin another chapter.

But before we get more into that, allow me to introduce myself: I'm a longtime resident of nearby Wyckoff, and a Ramapo High School graduate. I left New Jersey to attend Champlain College's Professional Writing Program in frigid Burlington, VT, where I had a focus in journalism. I worked as an editor of my student newspaper and did a stint with Seven Days, a popular alternative weekly in the Green Mountain State. I also spent an inordinate amount of time arguing with Red Sox fans on the grounds that 'Yankees Suck' (they don't—I've checked the standings), but that's another matter altogether.

I returned to New Jersey in August 2009 and held a series of odd writing-based jobs before becoming a frequent contributor to Wyckoff Patch, where I worked closely with editor Nicholas Loffredo (who's been an invaluable resource to me in my progressing journalism career). Now, having written articles on politics, education, the environment, the arts and more for Patch, I'm fortunate enough to be taking over as the editor of Ridgewood Patch. I couldn't be more excited (and truth be told, a bit nervous; Sam leaves big shoes to fill) for the opportunity to serve the citizens of Ridgewood.

With unprecedented budget cuts, layoffs and large looming issues like Governor Christie's proposals, the possible expansion of Valley Hospital, upcoming elections, debate on Graydon Pool, vacant downtown businesses and other assorted challenges and opportunities, the upcoming future in Ridgewood may be very different than what's seen in the village today.

Having read up as much as I possibly could in preparation to cover the town as the editor, I admit that no amount of reading can substitute for interaction with the community. That's something that will take time but ultimately, I believe, will bear far more fruit. From the guy filling up your morning coffee at the Ridgewood Coffee Company, to the resident on Glen Avenue wondering what sorts of programs are going on at the library, to the public servants volunteering their time and expertise—the village is the sum of its parts, and to see the bigger picture that relationship must be understood.

As an extension of that thought, one of the primary goals of mine as editor of Ridgewood Patch is not just writing about the issues of the community, but being a part of the community as well. By really getting to know the people of the Ridgewood, I believe Patch can continue to be a valuable resource and forum for the community as a whole, one where residents can converge and provide information and ideas that will enlighten and push others. I want to meet and get to know the people that make this dynamic and historic village what it is.

Patch, under Sam's direction, was able grow quickly into a trusted, legitimate news source in town, and one with distinction. That's a credit to both Sam, his freelancers and the rest of the Patch team. But it's also a credit to the residents. Without an engaged population or the accessibility and the forthcoming public servants, a venture like this is unlikely to survive, let alone excel.

So while Patch may be entering a new chapter, I believe that we can continue to provide the most comprehensive and accessible journalism possible. A well-informed populace—as a general rule, that is—make better decisions; we'd like to be part of that equation, and I welcome you to be a part of it too.

While the medium and model of news media is still in an unclear transitionary state, information today is even more fluid than ever, and it's also as necessary as ever. People want to know what's happening in the towns they live in, and given the technological advancements and new-found ability for all to have a voice, Patch can provide the community-specific needed information and a forum for those voices to be heard. Ridgewood continues to be a vibrant, engaging and passionate place to be, and I hope Ridgewood Patch will mirror those ideals and traits.

The upcoming months and year look to be an exciting and potentially divisive time. To serve the community as best as I can, I want to hear your thoughts on all things Ridgewood.

Nice to meet you, Ridgewood. I hope you'll read the next chapter.