I live in Northern NJ and go to Ridgewood fairly often just to walk around with my camera, enjoying the view, the people and the wonderful friendly atmosphere. Ridgewood is a small town with lots of clean fresh air, interesting people, beautiful landmarks, and fun things to do - especially with a camera in hand.

There is a classic railroad station as quite a few of the residents work in NYC. Yes, they also lost too many fathers, mothers, sisters brothers, etc. on 9/11. There is also a beautiful park with the American Flag always flying high - along with a strikingly simple Memorial dedicated to honor those who are missed. However, Ridgewood remains an upbeat community, as is evidenced when one takes a walk through this special town.

This past Sunday I spent more time than usual walking Ridgewood's preppy streets accompanied only by my camera. I soon began to notice something I hadn't seen before, and it made me once again feel sad - not as sad as 9/11. But sad.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. So here is the rest of the story:

The First National Bank - Landmark with a small sign on the side of the building
"For Rent"



One of many old Classic Ridgewood Family Stores - serving the residents - from generation to generation



One of many little Mom and Pop Stores that embodies the "Spirit of Ridgewood"



A small Office among many along the streets bringing a variety of services to the residents



An unfamiliar bigger-than-life AD seems to strike a chord of disharmony along the streets of this quiet town



My Favorite Landmark in Ridgewood....This beautiful building has always stood proudly right across the street from the Railroad Station.....welcoming the commuters home after a hard days work.......reminding them in the morning that they would come safely home. Today the building is mostly empty.....for rent signs in most windows including the ones on the top.



My prayer is that this one small town will continue to be a member of Our Town USA....with all the ups and downs, that it will always be a sign of HOPE .....to me - and to all who love this town and all it stands for.

This is just my personal tribute to a town I've grown to love throughout the years. Ever since I purchased my first serious camera about 8-10 years ago, Ridgewood has been my subject. I can't think of photography without thinking of Ridgewood. And I can't go to Ridgewood without taking home some images of my favorite small town.

Please forgive the obvious "schmaltzie" way I have brought Ridgewood to life here. I think that word was made up by a friend of mine to describe what he considered "friendly corn."

Please please....add some photos of your favorite town....and add a story if you like.

Liz