Emily Abramenko, is an experienced knitter who has taught in a knitting store and loves to help her friends learn to knit.  

Chip Ambrogio, is a comic who has played all the major city clubs, worked the road, written and acted in independent films and won seven Telly Awards for humorous corporate videos.  As a comedy writer, he has written for The Friars Club Roasts, many of today’s top headliners and was a writing consultant for Hulu’s, “Don’t Know Jack.”  Chip brings 28 years of Comedy to you.  He’ll share what they learned by trial and error, behind the scene stories, performance tips and how to be a pro on stage and off.  Even if you’re not thinking about a full career as a stand-up comic, comedy skills add value to sales, public speaking and help you deliver the performance you need, when you need it!

Stacey Antine, is a registered dietitian who holds a Master’s of Science in Food, Nutrition and Dietetics from New York University.  Alarmed by the long list of lifestyle diseases (obesity, heart disease, diabetes, etc.) faced by children today, she founded HealthBarn USA to connect children to natural foods and where they come from.  Expanding her commitment to help families eat healthier, she started HealthBarn Foundation and its first project Healing Meals, a nutritious food gifting program for ill children with cancer and serious blood disorders and their families and seniors in need.  Stacey's approach to good nutrition is to connect families to their food source through a garden-to-table approach to eating and overall wellness. 

Bob Austin, is the owner of Robert Austin Brand & Communications.  Before starting his consulting practice, he was global VP Corp Comm for Volvo Financial Services, for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, and was Director of Marketing Communications for Volvo.  

Fred Bargiacchi, Master Fred Bargiacchi has been teaching Self Defense for over 32 years and is the founder of the American Self Defense & Fitness Center in Rochelle Park. A 4th degree Black Belt, he has been actively teaching Tactical Self Defense skills to kids and adults since 1992. His passion for keeping kids & adults safe is second to none.

Marion Brown’s love of genealogy began 34 years ago as a hobby. She is a member of the Bergen County Genealogy Society and New York Genealogical and Geographical Society and is currently working toward her genealogist certification.  For the past five years she has been helping individuals trace their family histories well as archiving historic photos, books, and documents in private collections. She grew up in Ho-Ho-Kus and has been active in the history community of Bergen County currently serving on the Board of Trustees for the Mahwah Museum Society. She is a former director of the Hermitage, co-author of The Rosencrantz Cotton Warp Mill – The Industrial Revolution at the Hermitage 1830-1891.

Bob Burke, has been a student of the Irish Language for almost 30 years & has been teaching adults for the past 6 years.  

Tracy Burns has been a mixologist for the past 29 years.  Tracy started mixing drinks during college and continues to stay up to date on the newest trends.  She finds true delight in crafting the perfect balance of flavors to make the tasting experience thoroughly enjoyable.

Vivian Burns, has been sewing since she was 8 years old.  She worked in the fashion business for 20 years as a buyer/designer before she began So You Studio in 2005.  Vivian teaches sewing in after school programs, adult schools and for private students.  She is also an Adjunct Professor at Berkeley College.

Ina Cabrera Franck, received her 200RYT in 2015 from Beyoga Studio in Pequannock.  She has also received training from Meghan's Foundation's Yoga for Veterans and other populations experiencing PTSD. She is the lead teacher at Blackbird Yoga Studio in Closter and is part of their teacher training team. Beyond the Closter studio she teaches chair yoga, corporate yoga, and yoga for recovery, and has logged over 3500 hours of teaching.  Ina is a Certified Reiki Master and is a member of Long River Tai Chi.  She plays bass guitar, sings, and writes music for her band, Pickles and Cream.  Always a student, Ina loves to share the tools that help guide her through the ups and downs of life.

Jackie Carter, is the founder and artist at Love Jac, a creative company that helps you create, share and connect through art.  She is also a teacher and workshop host of art, vision-board, scrapbooking, and card making classes and a television producer and script supervisor.  She is an Emerson College graduate. 

Martine Chahine, was born and raised in the Loire Valley of France.  She has a bachelor’s degree in French History.  She has been teaching French to adults for more than 15 years.

Coast Boating School LLC, was the first private boating school approved by the State of New Jersey in 1987.  They are the largest private boating school in NJ, with more than 500 classes scheduled per season and have certified over 60,000 students.  Our course is approved by National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and the New Jersey State Police.  Our instructors are licensed United States Coast Guard Captains with many ears of boating experience and are including background checks.

Christina Colacci, is a licensed Interior Designer and Realtor with 18 years of experience in Residential and Commercial Design as well as Construction Management. Her passion for creating a functional and beautiful space, combined with her practical knowledge of the Real Estate market, allows her to bring a unique and invaluable approach to space-planning and design.

Mary-Lee Costello, a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology was a children's dress designer and international sourcing and production manager for over 33 years.  A lifetime exercise enthusiast, she is certified by AFAA as a Group Exercise Instructor and teaches Zumba, Zumba Gold, Zumba Toning and Zumba Kids. She has participated in school programs and Relay for Life.  She is also certified by the Arthritis Foundation as a Program Leader and has created a land-based Arthritis, Balance and Fall Prevention Program. She is also certified by Exercise, Etc. as a senior fitness consultant.  She currently teaches at senior centers, an independent living facility, memory care facility, developmentally-disabled adult class and the general public - always with tremendous joy, energy and props galore. Her goal is to make her students both healthy AND happy!

Diana Daniel, is a New Jersey native who started dancing at the age of 3. Trained in many genres of dance including Ballet, Jazz, Ballroom, Latin and Line Dance, she has been teaching since the age of 17. Diana taught and owned Anchor Dance Studio in Oradell NJ for 20 years. Line Dancing became a huge part of Diana's passion and it is her absolute favorite dance genre to dance and teach. Her energy and love for what she does passionately shows through her teaching!

Roger Davidoff, is a graduate of The Philadelphia College of Art/University of The Arts with a minor in Art History.  He holds a BFA in Graphic Design; he has owned his own design consultant firm since 1991.  He founded an Art Appreciation Program for public school elementary students, and continues to give lectures and museum tours at most NYC museums.  In addition to his comprehensive knowledge of Western Art History, he has also studied Musicology at NYU’s Graduate School of Music, specializing in Austrian/German music from 1750 through 1900.

Dharmachakra Buddist Center, is a Buddhist meditation center in northern NJ. They are dedicated to helping you find happiness from within your own heart and real solutions to your problems through Budda’s advice.  

John DiCostanzo, MA in Dental Technology, owns a dental laboratory in Bergenfield.  He plays basketball as a form of exercise, and has played his whole life.

Janette Dishuk, MA, LMT, R-DMT, CPMT, Reiki Practitioner Level 1, is the founder/director of Synergy Arts & Wellness. She is a professional dance artist and instructor, licensed massage therapist, certified pediatric massage therapist, creative arts & dance/movement therapist, wellness coach/consultant/mentor, special events director/coordinator, program development specialist, researcher, and an adjunct dance professor. She is a principal company member and soloist with the Art of Motion Dance Theatre. She is a national and international performer and presenter. With over 24 years of experience in her fields, Ms. Dishuk continues to perform, teach, create, advocate, and work with organizations and individuals developing and providing arts & wellness programs and unique events. She enjoys teaching basic and beginner ballroom and Latin dance with those looking to have fun and "get out and dance".

Dawn Dittmar, began studying Astrology at the age of nine. After retiring from her career as a practicing attorney, Dawn pursued her passion of Creative Writing, Astrology and Reiki. The author of two published books, Dawn is also a Certified Usui and Tibetan Reiki Master Teacher.

Courtney Dodd, is an independent travel consultant for a Disney Platinum EarMarked agency called ETFamily Travel.  She books trips exclusively to Disney World along with providing my clients with thorough information to enhance their experience on the trip.  Additionally, I am an avid Disney person who goes multiple times a year and stays up-to-date with the new Disney happenings.

Karen Finnerty-Eagan, is a Certified Reiki Master Teacher and Crystal Practitioner.  She is a retired educator with 38 years of teaching experience working with children with special needs in the classroom.  Karen has a Master’s Degree in Education and is certified as a Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant.  Karen shares her passion, and experiences, collecting and working with crystals.  She provides information and practical applications for their use and enjoyment. 

Rick Feingold, has more than 25 years of Community School teaching experience.  He holds the designation, eBay Education Specialist and has been trained by eBay. Mr. Feingold operates an online eBay store and is an eBay PowerSeller.  Previously he worked as a Performing Arts Marketing Director and in marketing luxury automobiles.  BA, Rutgers University.  MBA, Penn State University.

Gary Fink, is the Director of Jazz and Percussion at Ridgewood High School.  He attended Eastman School of Music and William Paterson Univ.  He has an active schedule as a freelance percussionist and studio instructor.

Mary Fitzgerald, APSD, Certified Home Stager and Certified Home Stager Trainer, ASP Staged Homes Professional and licensed real estate associate.

Greg Giardino, brings over 15 years of experience in the financial planning industry. Greg’s passion for wealth management started at home. When his father unexpectedly passed away at an early age, his family remained financially stable because of the steps his father took with estate and legacy planning. This tragic event inspired Greg to help his own clients protect their biggest asset – their families. As a fiduciary, Greg takes a client-first approach to financial planning and holds the prestigious CFP certification, along with the Certified Private Wealth Advisor certification – an advanced credential for advisors who work with high-net-worth clients. His insights have appeared in various media publications, including the Wall Street Journal, Barron’s, Financial-Planning.com, AARP, MarketWatch, and CNBC, among others. He is a member of the N.J. Chapter of the Financial Planning Association and the Investments & Wealth Institute. Greg and his wife, Melissa, reside in Bergen County, NJ. Outside of the office, Greg enjoys traveling, hiking, and attending their favorite college sporting events.

Gwendolen Gross, an award-winning instructor and novelist, is the author of five critically acclaimed novels, including Field Guide, Getting Out, The Other Mother, and The Orphan Sister. Gwendolen’s newest novel, When She Was Gone (Simon & Schuster, 2013) explores the disappearance of a teenager and the shadows and secrets of suburban life.  She holds a BA from Oberlin college and an MFA from Sarah Lawrence College.  Her website is www.gwendolengross.com. 

Group Tours & Travel, Jen Hofmann & Creed Hyatt have been devising and leading trips for almost 20 years.  Jen has an MA in Biology and Creed has an MA in International Relations and an MA in Philosophy.  For college students through senior citizens, our experience in designing and leading small group travel to unique places stretches from local to international.  We provide insightful, educational and soulful travel experiences away from the crowds and away from standardized, homogenized destinations.  

Burton Hall, a member of the Society of Automotive Historians, has written for a client list that includes Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Maserati, Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Peugeot and Volvo.  He presently writes for his own online magazine Drivin’ News (www.drivin-news.com).  As a classic car enthusiast, He owns a 1961 Corvette that he bought in 1967, a 1953 Jaguar XK120MC that he restored, a 2003 E46 BMW and a 1951 MGTD that presently serves as a centerpiece in his garden. All are great drivers, except the MG which has a few bugs.

Fred Hammond, has over 25 years as a Public Relations executive and automotive consultant and over 40 years in the automotive industry with some of the most respected marquees on the premium and performance end of the automotive spectrum.

Marize Helmy, Esq. is a Partner at The Manna Helmy Law Group, formerly known as Michael A. Manna & Associates. Marize leverages her extensive experience assisting families with Estate Planning, Guardianships and Elder Law matters with this firm since 2006 while she obtained her bachelor’s degree from Fordham University and Juris Doctor from SUNY School of Law in 2011.  Mrs. Helmy currently teaches social workers for their continuing education credits. She is also on the Board of Trustees for Ramapo College and is a board member and acting treasurer of her church in Bergen County and is a member of the New Jersey State Bar Association, the New York State Bar Association, and the Bergen County Bar Association. Marize has been honored by Thomson Reuters as a New Jersey Super Lawyers™ Rising Star in 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023. 

Lauren Imbruglia, most recently taught at Benjamin Franklin Middle School in Ridgewood for over 17 years.  Prior to that she taught in Montvale.  Plants have been an interest and hobby for her, and she recently retired from teaching and opened up Deeply Rooted; Ridgewood's Little Plant Shop.  A 31-year village resident, she raised all 3 of her children in Ridgewood, and still resides there with her husband and their pets.

Terry Kovalcik, has over 30 years of dedication to creative work in art.  He received a Fine Arts degree in drawing and painting.  Terry currently works as a freelance illustrator with an emphasis on the children’s market.  He discovered PMC in 1999 and has been hooked ever since.  He received Guild Certification in 2000 to teach others about PMC and became a Senior Certification Instructor in 2005.  www.TerryKovalcik.com

Lois Kramer-Perez, C.Ht., Intuitive Practitioner and Educator, Graduate of F.I.T., The Feng Shui Alliance School, Institute of Hypnotherapy and Wellness Institute, Lois certified in feng shui and Hypnosis, and is a Board Member of International Feng Shui Guild.  Lois is the go to expert when you are finally ready to receive passionate relationships, a peaceful home, and a life you love.  She puts her 10+ years of feng shui energy clearing to work for realtors, divorcees, business owners, and moms running a busy household, to put them in the driver’s seat with their relationships and spaces.  You may have seen her guest appearances on the Dr. Joy Show and Family Today with Maria Mirkovitch.  Lois is a sought after speaker, expert, contributing author Breakthrough Results; and creator of popular programs such as “Clearing Meditation Circle” and the “Feng Shui Jumpstart”.  

Marya Larkin, is a certified technology professional with over 20 years of experience in IT.  She has worked in profit and non-profit sectors; in education, trade union, legal, financial and biotechnology industries.  She spent this time as a Systems, Network, Server, and Backups Administrators as well as developed and instructed end users, students, faculty and staff on hardware, software, mobile devices and technology platforms.  She owns Rebooted Technology, a technology support company based in Ridgewood, NJ.  Service include: Technology support for organizations, small businesses and individuals; technology coaching; web design, social media marketing and technology training.  Marya aims to boost computer confidence & technology skills with her comprehensive courses and coaching services. Find out more about Rebooted Technology’s services at www.rebootedtech.com.

Ashley Laub, is a seasoned HR professional, with 15 years of experience in the human resources field. Ashley has worked in the Media and Retail industries, and formed her HR consulting company, Core Culture LLC, in September 2020. Her company focuses on working with small businesses who are in need of HR support, as well individuals who are looking for career coaching/exploration, resume writing, and interview preparation.

Loren Lee, is an Instructional designer by day and baker by night!  Loren is the owner of Onree’s Sweets and creates personalized desserts.  “Art made edible” is her motto as she brings together design and the culinary world. Loren has a certificate in French Pastry Techniques and Culinary Entrepreneurship from the International Culinary Center (formerly The French Culinary Institute) and has attended CookieCon three times along with many cookie decorating classes.

Pat Linnemayer, Pat & Fred Linnemeyer are certified ACBL teachers. They have a Bridge Club in Ridgewood which offers bridge games that you can play in after you finish your lessons. Their passion for Bridge will be expressed in their classes and all will have a great time.

Robert Livingstone, long time player and instructor for the volleyball leagues and classes.

Joe Lustica, has been playing music professionally, teaching guitar and music theory since 1998.  Touring nationally and teaching in a music school while not on tour, he has dedicated his life to perfecting the art of teaching music.  Not a believer of “natural ability” but rather “the right method for the individual student”.  He has codified a unique style of teaching that embraces all learning styles of a student rather than simply relying on a “one size fits all” method.  He is now the owner/operator of Guitar Education.

Michael A. Manna, is an honors graduate from Boston College and Boston College Law School.  He is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and is admitted to practice in New Jersey, New York and Massachusetts as well as before the Supreme Court of the United States.  Mr. Manna is a licensed provider of mandatory continuing education for certified public accountants, certified life underwriters, certified financial planners and social workers.  Mr. Manna has also served as a faculty member of the New Jersey Institute for Continuing Legal Education, not-for-profit organization dedicated to the continuing education of attorneys.  

Erin Marrazzo, Erin is a private chef serving clients in northern New Jersey and New York City.  Trained in natural foods and health supportive cookery.  Erin strives to help make clients’ lives a little easier by providing delicious, healthy food.

Julie Mchedlishvili, systems and structures thinker with 25+ years of operational, programming development, and planning experience in organization leadership and adult learning.

Russell Meccia, Ramapo Wealth Advisors,is a Wealth Advisor and Partner at Ramapo Wealth Advisors. He has over 10 years of experience in financial services and over 15 years in management. Prior to joining the firm, Russell was an Assistant Vice President at Wells Fargo, holding Series 7 and 66 securities licenses along with his life insurance license. Beginning at Wells Fargo as a branch manager and then transitioning to the Senior Branch Premier Banker, Russell focused on building client relationships and providing investment and advisory services to individuals and businesses with his team at Wells Fargo Advisors. Russell has dedicated his career to serve his clients by taking a detailed approach to understanding his client’s priorities and long-term goals.

Howard Miller, Howard Miller has an BS from Emory University and an MBA in finance from Columbia University. After graduating Columbia, he earned his stripes as a private equity analyst and investment banker with Deutsche Bank. During this time, he learned the real-life lessons of corporate finance in the board room, the investment room and the drawing room.  As a financial advisor, Howard’s first goal is to get to know each client. Each client has unique financial needs, objectives, and risk profile. Howard will evaluate each client’s objectives to determine the most appropriate wealth plan and investing strategy. His main objectives are always to reduce risk and build wealth; however, how this is achieved will always differ based on the risk profile and objectives of the client.

Dreena Moran, is an improviser, voice actor, and singer/songwriter based in New Jersey.  She received her comedy training at The Peoples Improv Theater, as well as The Upright Citizens Brigade Theater in NYC and cut her teeth performing weekly as a house team member on The PIT stages in Manhattan.  She currently performs in Hackensack, NJ with professional Improv team, Howdy Stranger.  As a voice actor, she uses her Improv skills on a day-to-day basis, creating animated and video game characters and giving life to commercial copy.

Messalina Morley-Alton, a licensed realtor in New Jersey, Messalina Morley-Alton has spent a lifetime learning about and experiencing the Bergen County area and beyond.  She grew up in Ridgewood and lives there even today.  Messalina loves the beautiful towns surrounding her home and the history and character that come along with them.  In addition, as someone working in the entertainment industry, she appreciates the proximity to New York City and how easy it is to travel in and out of the Big Apple.

Paul Muller, graduated from the State University of New York at Albany with a degree in Economics and has over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry. He’s a Certified Financial Planner™ Professional(CFP®) and Accredited Estate Planner (AEP®). Paul is Founder of Vision Retirement a Register Investment Advisory Firm and Advisor Tax Prep both located in Ridgewood.

Zach Pace is a public High School Computer Science teacher, multiple sport coach and private tutor. Prior to becoming a teacher, he traded Mortgage Backed Securities for multiple sell side banks, was a Product Manager for a large financial software firm, and held multiple positions as an Officer while serving in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Harold C. Petzold, Licensed New York State Outdoor Guide.  He has been leading hikes for more than 10 years. 

Kristen Plumley, has sung with many opera companies and symphony orchestras throughout United States and Canada.  She is president of Ridgewood Friends of Music which supports the music program and teachers in Ridgewood Public Schools.  Kristen enjoys singing ALL types of music.

Joel Popadics, paintings have been exhibited in solo and group exhibitions in galleries and museums across the United States.  In addition, his work is in public and private art collections including the United Methodist Church, Ridgewood and the University Medical Center of Princeton, Plainsboro.  Mr. Popadics is the recipient of numerous national awards.  He is an elected member of five art organizations and signature member of the American Water Color Society.  He has been featured many times in AMERICAN ARTIST and THE ARTIST’S MAGAZINES.  Mr. Popadics is a past president of the NJ Watercolor Society.  He is the education director and an instructor at the Ridgewood Art Institute.  He received a BFA from the School of Visual Arts in New York City.  To view his watercolors on-line visit: http://www.watercolorpop.com

Brittney Portes, is the founder of Gardens of Sol, where she empowers people to turn any space into a thriving edible garden. As the manager of the Montclair State University community garden, Brittney champions urban agriculture by teaching sustainable growing techniques. Through Gardens of Sol, she hosts engaging workshops, offers personalized gardening consultations, and provides a wealth of educational resources. Her passion for growing food and sharing knowledge makes her a leading voice in garden education, inspiring communities to cultivate abundance in even the smallest spaces.

Patricia Rodriquez, is a native Spanish speaker who has been teaching and tutoring for over 25 years.  She has worked with all age groups and all levels of Spanish.

Jody Rubel, began his studies of Tai Chi at One Drop Monastery in the Pacific Northwest in 2007 and continued his studies at the Longriver Tai Chi school in NYC, Rockland County and Amherst Mass.  Jody began teaching Tai Chi in 2015 and was accredited an ATCQ level 2 instructors certificate in 2020.  In 2018, Jody started his own Mad Monk School of Tai Chi in honor of those misfit monks who lead with humor and compassion.  Jody teaches Chen Man Ching's Yang 37 posture short form, sword, sensing hands and Dai Lu.  For Jody, Tai Chi is a way of life, a method less method for undoing and remodeling everyday excess, tension and imbalance.  Jody has taught at The Neurology Center of Bergen County, martial arts schools and Senior centers.  Jody is currently teaching at the Wayne Public Library, Lakeland Unitarian Universalist Church in Wayne, and the Heart in Motion Dance School in Ridgewood.

Sa’Noorah, is a respected instructor and performer in the area known for utmost professionalism. Her technique is based on classical Egyptian and Cabaret style fused with a touch of American glamour and flair. She has studied these styles of dance since 2007 and began teaching them in 2011, in addition to her own classes, she continues her studies weekly and takes workshops with numerous internationally acclaimed Master Instructors. Sa'Noorah currently holds her ShaQui Principles Belly Dance Certification; and has held past certifications to teach/coach, personal training, group fitness and Zumba. As a teacher, the combination of Sa’Noorah’s enthusiasm for the dance and love of learning will show through, bringing her students a memorable, creative and fun environment for all ages.

MT Schwartzman has been a full-time freelance writer for more than 30 years. During that time, he has sold over 800 articles to magazines and websites in the US, Canada, England, Finland and Australia. He has nearly 25 years of experience teaching adult education.

Joseph Scillieri, has a BA in Business Administration from WPU, and a Certificate of Culinary Arts from Bergen Community College.  He has over 13 years’ experience in the food service industry and is an experienced adult education instructor.

Angie Shaghaghi, Working with fresh ingredients is in Chef Angie’s wheel house, as well as incorporating bold worldly flavors from spices such as cumin, paprika, and turmeric.  Her cooking inspirations are inspired by her travels from around the world and her belief that “fresh is best”.  Besides teaching cooking classes, she enjoys cooking competitions.  She has competed on numerous Food Network shows including Chopped, Kitchen Crash, and Supermarket Stakeout, where she came out as the winner.

Larisa Shlahet, a Ridgewood resident, has over 20 years of experience as a floral event designer.  Her client include Cynthia Nixon, HBO, Citigroup Bank and NRDC.

Wendy Shapero, Such a Voice, is a successful voice artist, actor, dancer, and comedian. Starting out as a young actress-dancer-choreographer in the Detroit scene, Wendy garnered critical acclaim for her performances on-stage in “Antigone”, “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum”, and “Godspell” among others. After touring internationally with a stage production of Disney’s “Pocahontas”, Wendy decided to move out West to Los Angeles to pursue film-acting. Wendy acted in such indie features as “Free Samples” with Jesse Eisenberg (The Social Network) and “Expect Delays”. Wendy’s voice-over work has been featured on Cartoon Network, an advertisement campaign for FIAT, and the audiobook for Jeanne Birdsall’s children’s book, “Flora’s Windy Day”, and many more.

Serena Sidawi, is the Director of Marketing at One Love Foundation, a national nonprofit organization that works to prevent relationship abuse by providing relationship health education to youth across the country. During her time at One Love, her work resulted in a remarkable over 3,000% expansion for the organization. She also successfully launched six award-winning campaigns which garnered accolades including Bronze and Silver Cannes Lions Awards, Gold, Silver, and Bronze American Advertising Awards, and Medical Marketing and Media Awards.  She joined One Love in March 2016 after many years in digital communications and brand management at various advertising agencies in NYC. Serena worked for a variety of brands and clients, including Novartis, Pfizer, Citibank, Nokia, and MetLife. She is the founder of Daughter Marketing, LLC. Serena received a B.S. in Advertising and minor in Interactive Digital Design from Quinnipiac University.

Arlene Sobel, is a former architectural designer and more recently, a certified medical assistant, who spends much of her spare time playing and teaching mah jongg.

Chuck Solomon, has been a professional photographer for over thirty years. A former staff photographer at Sports Illustrated; his photographs have appeared on the cover of that magazine more than forty times.  Equally proficient at shooting action portraits and picture stories, he is also the photographer and author of several children’s books.  Chuck has received many awards for his photographs and has had an image named by Sports Illustrated as one of the 100 greatest sports photographs of all time.  He was recently profiled in Adorama’s Meet a Pro series.  A firm believer in the power of the still image; he has spent a good deal of his career making memorable images and eagerly shares his passion for photography with his students. 

Alane Steinacker, choreographer since 2017 for the Bollywood number in the Annual Staged Performance for the Ridgewood High School Jamboree Scholarship Fund.  She combines Bollywood with several other dance forms for a fusion of styles - incorporating dance style influences such as Jazz, Latin, Ballet and Tap to name a few. 

Denri Takai, a Japanese calligrapher with over 20 years of experience, where she taught calligraphy in two of the greatest cities of the world; New York and Tokyo. Demi occasionally holds several workshops in NYC.  Additionally, a bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts from Tsukuba University, Japan, majoring in Japanese Calligraphy.

Alex Tirso, a decade of experience in the financial industry, Alex brings expertise in financial planning and asset management. His career journey began at UBS and Merrill Lynch, where he honed his skills in advising individual clients on their financial goals and investments. For the past 8 years, Alex has excelled as a Vice President at Invesco, one of the largest asset managers in the industry, where he consulted financial advisors on investment strategies. Alex Tirso is now a Wealth Advisor and Partner at Ramapo Wealth Advisors. He helps successful individuals demystify the financial puzzle with the financial planning process. As a CFP® Practitioner, Alex works alongside his clients to help them flesh out their specific long-term needs and craft a holistic plan to get them there.

Patricia Vangieri, has been the owner of The Glass Gallery Stained Glass Studio in Nutley, NJ for 35 years.  She is an instructor, designer and fabricator to novice and experienced hobbyists as well as a provider of tools and supplies needed for working in the craft.  She also works as a commissioned artist for those wanting custom work for their home or business. www.glassgallerynj.com

Mike Vogt, an investment professional and certified Speaking Circle Facilitator. He discovered Speaking Circles International (SCI) to improve his public speaking skills. SCI, founded by Lee Glickstein in 1989, focuses on natural communication principles and Relational Presence.

Lorinda Walker, has been working with therapeutic grade essential oils since 2005.  She uses them exclusively as the first line of defense against common ailments and has found them to be beneficial or supporting the emotions as well.  As a Licensed Massage Therapist since 1996, Lorinda uses doTERRA Essential Oils in her massage therapy practice and is also a Certified AromaTouch Practioner and a Certified AromaTouch Instructor.  As a doTERRA Diamond Level Wellness Advocate, she has traveled around the country, teaching others how to use essential oils to support a healthy lifestyle.  As a Certified AromaTouch Instructor, she has taught hundreds of people how to facilitate the AromaTouch Technique, a clinical application of eight doTERRA oils to the back and the feet. This treatment helps alleviate stress, boosts the immune system, reduces pain and discomfort and restores balance to the body.  Lorinda enjoys showing others how they can take charge of their health and empower themselves to feel better without side effects, only side benefits.  Essential oils have transformed her life in so many ways and she is passionate about sharing their amazing healing properties.

Anne Winner, Graduate of Rhode Island School of Design (BFA and MAT).  Art teacher for many years in public and private schools.  Past Board Member of The Art School at Old Church in Demarest, NJ.  Anne has exhibited in many group and solo shows including Piermont Fine Arts Gallery, The Stable in Ridgewood, Unitarian Society of Ridgewood, and The Art School at Old Church.

Naomi Yamanashi, is a licensed teacher who graduated from Chiba University, Japan, majoring in Education for Children with special needs.  She has over 25 years of experience teaching Japanese in Egypt and USA.  Naomi has a passion for teaching students from different cultures and background where she can help them progress in all areas of their development whether academic, social or language.

Zahavi & Schwartz, is made up of mother-daughter team, Zahava & Orly Schwartz.  We are personal stylists, wardrobe coaches, and curate unique shopping experiences for our clients.  With over 10 years’ experience in the fashion world, we have taken this knowledge and been perfecting our Closet Rehab & Style Transformations, to teach our method to the community, to help more people gain clarity, define their style, and get more organized.  We look to empower men and women through their wardrobe, so they always feel comfortable and able to take on any challenge set before them.

Maksim Zaitsev, founder and the head coach of Arena Fencing Academy in Waldwick, NJ. Has 27 years of fencing experience, specializing in Epee. He trained multiple National and regional champions. Graduates of Arena Fencing Academy being recruited by colleges to fence for their teams.  He started fencing at age of 9 in 1988 in Tallinn, Estonia. Education: University of Massachusetts, Boston, MA Bachelor of Arts in Economics, class 2005. Personal achievements include: Master of Sport of Fencing (A-Epee), Estonian Junior National Champion, multiple finalist and semi-finalist at National Championships, 18 years of coaching experience:2014-present Arena Fencing Academy (founder and the Head Coach), NJ Fencing Alliance 2012-2014, Medeo Fencing Club, NJ 2011-2012, Ridge High School, NJ (Women Epee Squad Champions, 2012) 2011-2012, Columbia High School (State Champions for many years), Dana Hall High School, MA (Head Coach) 2004-2006 & Boston Fencing Club, MA 2001-2004.