The Bay Ridge Digest

Out now on all podcasting platforms, The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 22. This episode contains graphic audio of the events of September 11th, 2001. Please don’t listen if you feel this will trigger you. That’s not my intention. It’s the most difficult thing I’ve ever produced in more than twelve years of producing podcasts. Thank you to the guests: Gabe Berezin, Katie Coughlin, Chris Ghiorzi, Aimee Pagano, Marco Pirozzi, and Erica Stavrou.Thank you to Gabe for allowing me to use two songs: “Here Now,” and the currently playing “Silver Star.” The media material used in today’s episode included snippets from:• The CBS World News Roundup, September 10th, 2001• 1010WINS’ broadcast from September 11th, 2001• Jules Naudet’s footage from September 11th• The FDNY Dispatch audio from September 11th• Chris Hopewell’s video from September 11th• NJ Burkett’s ABC-TV broadcast from September 11th• NY1’s broadcast from September 11thFor more info on how to submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.com. You can also get in touch by emailing [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

Hey everyone,I'm hard at work getting the next episode of The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast and the Monday Morning Roundup Email together, but in the meantime, do you know Katie Coughlin of Ovington Pottery (264 Ovington Avenue)?Come get your hands in clay at your neighborhood clay studio in Bay Ridge! Grab a seat at their 10-week Fall Session (9/21/2026 to 12/3/2026). Beginners and advanced students welcome! Here are some of their classes:Adult Beginner Wheel Throwing — Tuesday Nights — 6:00PM - 8:30PM taught by Katie — 1 spot leftAdult Handbuilding — Wednesday Nights — 6:00PM - 8:30PM taught by Jiyu — a few spots leftMonthly Making Nights — Grab your friends and join a Group Clay Night. This hour-and-a-half class is an intro to hand-building and the ceramic process. Each student is guided through basic building techniques and each month is a different theme. Date Night — Join Ovington Pottery for a private Date Night. You’ll work side by side to create beautiful pots and enjoying each other’s company while indulging in a beverage of choice and chocolate.Fall 2026 Registration is now open for after-school programming for Kids and Teens. Get those hands in clay to grow dexterity, creativity and problem solving while practicing patience and imagination. The Fall Kids Class for Ages 5-11 still has spots open. Classes will take place on Thursdays from 3PM to 5PM between 9/25 and 12/4 and pickup is available from local schoolsFall 2026 Adult Session Registration is now open. Classes will begin on 9/21 and run through 12/3.Please email [email protected] with any questions!

Out now on all podcasting platforms, The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 21. It’s the beginning of the harvest season and tonight we’ll meet with longtime Bay Ridge residents and talk about old houses, centers, and civic engagement. Featured in this episode are these segments: • Aimee Pagano Colin (@aimeenicolecollin) on her 1910 townhouse, her grandparents' old home at 8320 Ridge Boulevard, her ideal 2026 Halloween, and her love of mahjong• Bay Ridge and National News from 1954• More Stories from Flagg Court with Marilyn Walters, Jimmy Johnson (@jimmydjohnson), and Christine Walters (@finnmom) • Kayla Santosuosso (@councilmemberkayla) on what her office can help you with• Maryland Memo from August of 1959 with the late Frank Griffin of The Bay Ridge Home Reporter• Back to school jokes from Freddie Friday (@freddiefridaystoryfuntime) with a PSA for the Itty Bitty Kitty Bay Ridge Cat Rescue (@ittybittykittynybayridge)• Todd Fliedner (@todd.fliedner) on the Harvest season at the Bay Ridge Center (@bayridgecenter), expanded programming, what’s going on this Autumn, and how to join• Rained out on Shore Road during Hurricane Carol in late August of 1954 • Looking ahead to SeptemberSubscribe to the Bay Ridge Digest’s Monday Morning roundup email for free at bayridgedigest.com/newsletter-1 and join the more than 3600 people who want more info on everything going on in Bay Ridge.For more info on how to submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.com. You can also get in touch by emailing [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

Out now on all podcasting platforms, The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 20. It’s Old Home Week and tonight we’ll visit some of our neighborhood’s most iconic houses and talk with the people who live there. Featured in this episode are these segments: •  Stories from the Golden Age of Flagg Court with Marilyn Walters, Jimmy Johnson (@jimmydjohnson), and Christine Walters (@finnmom) • Kayla Santosuosso (@councilmemberkayla) on what her office can help you with• Memories from the August 2003 Blackout• Stories from growing up at the Andrews/Elliot Mansion at with Marco Pirozzi • Harvest season jokes from Freddie Friday (@freddiefridaystoryfuntime) with a PSA for the Itty Bitty Kitty Bay Ridge Cat Rescue (@ittybittykittynybayridge)• Memories of growing up in Bensonhurst with Dr. Mary Elizabeth Micari (@acupuncturemaryelizabethmicari) • Stories from being a new parent with Kayla Santosuosso (@councilmemberkayla) • Todd Fliedner (@todd.fliedner) on what the Bay Ridge Center offers (@bayridgecenter) and how to join • Fourteen August at the Leif Erickson Tavern with Orson Welles• More memories from Flagg Court• Looking ahead to the Harvest SeasonSubscribe to the Bay Ridge Digest’s Monday Morning roundup email for free at bayridgedigest.com/newsletter-1 and join the more than 3600 people who want more info on everything going on in Bay Ridge.For more info on how to submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.com. You can also get in touch by emailing [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

Just a quick programming note: There's no audio version of The Bay Ridge Digest Monday Morning Roundup highlights this week because I'm knee deep in putting together The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 20, which will be out this Thursday 8/13. Called "Old Home Week," we'll visit some of our neighborhood's most iconic houses and talk with the people who live there. The Bay Ridge Digest Monday Morning Roundup email will be out tonight around 9:30 like always. If you're note subscribed, please do so for free here — https://www.bayridgedigest.com/newsletter-1And if you're ready for the spooky season, I've got at least 8 Halloween tours coming this October. For tickets and more info on individual tours please go here — https://linktr.ee/thewallbreakers

This is The Bay Ridge Digest's Monday Morning Roundup for 07/27/2026. These are the highlights. Subscribe to the free email at BayRidgeDigest.com for the full breath of everything happening in Bay Ridge this week. Know of important stories or events that will be happening this Summer? Please send them to me! My goal is to make this the most jam-packed Bay Ridge email out there. You can submit things to me in the forms at https://bayridgedigest.com/When you subscribe and open the email, you’ll notice that local businesses have sponsored this email. For one monthly fee your business’ logo can appear in 4-5 monthly emails with a link out to your choice. If this interests you and you want more information, please check out my Media Kit — https://www.bayridgedigest.com/media-kit. Already know you want to become a sponsor? Do so here — Patreon.com/TheBayRidgeDigest. 

Out now on all podcasting platforms, The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 19. Summer rolls on as we highlight local businesses from then and now. Featured in this episode are these segments: • News from Fort Hamilton and Bay Ridge in the post-World War II world• The benefits of acupuncture with Dr. Mary Elizabeth Micari (@acupuncturemaryelizabethmicari) • Jess from The Bookmark Shoppe (@thebookmarkshoppe) with some hyper-local reads• Ness from July of 1956 at Mitchell’s Drive-In• Hyper-local home owning with Rob Burnett (@burnie_re) and Luisa Zapata (@luisa_inbayridge) of Revived Residential• Bay Ridge coffee with Ron Kavral of Latte Da Cafe (@lattedacafes)• Hot summer jokes with Freddie Friday (@freddiefridaystoryfuntime) with a PSA for the Itty Bitty Kitty Bay Ridge Cat Rescue (@ittybittykittynybayridge)• News from July of 1966 on the Verrazzano Bridge• Looking ahead to the harvest season and local old homesSubscribe to the Bay Ridge Digest’s Monday Morning roundup email for free at bayridgedigest.com/newsletter-1 and join the more than three thousand people who want more info on everything going on in Bay Ridge.For more info on how to submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.com. You can also get in touch by emailing [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

This is The Bay Ridge Digest's Monday Morning Roundup for 07/27/2026. These are the highlights. Subscribe to the free email at BayRidgeDigest.com for the full breath of everything happening in Bay Ridge this week. Know of important stories or events that will be happening this Summer? Please send them to me! My goal is to make this the most jam-packed Bay Ridge email out there. You can submit things to me in the forms at https://bayridgedigest.com/When you subscribe and open the email, you’ll notice that local businesses have sponsored this email. For one monthly fee your business’ logo can appear in 4-5 monthly emails with a link out to your choice. If this interests you and you want more information, please check out my Media Kit — https://www.bayridgedigest.com/media-kit. Already know you want to become a sponsor? Do so here — Patreon.com/TheBayRidgeDigest. 

This is The Bay Ridge Digest's Monday Morning Roundup for 07/20/2026. These are the highlights. Subscribe to the free email at BayRidgeDigest.com for the full breath of everything happening in Bay Ridge this week. Know of important stories or events that will be happening this Summer? Please send them to me! My goal is to make this the most jam-packed Bay Ridge email out there. You can submit things to me in the forms at https://bayridgedigest.com/When you subscribe and open the email, you’ll notice that local businesses have sponsored this email. For one monthly fee your business’ logo can appear in 4-5 monthly emails with a link out to your choice. If this interests you and you want more information, please check out my Media Kit — https://www.bayridgedigest.com/media-kit. Already know you want to become a sponsor? Do so here — Patreon.com/TheBayRidgeDigest. 

Out now on all podcasting platforms, The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 18. We find lights in the sky as our community comes together to support each other. Featured in this episode are these segments: • Christopher Safi on surviving pediatric cancer, founding Little Golden Light (@littlegoldenlight_org), and their upcoming September Gala  • Michelle from Anthony’s Butcher & Deli (@anthonysbutcher) with your weeknight options• Jana Zolle on all the things Peace By Piece Thrift Store and Community Center (@peacebypiecethrift) offers  • July 1959 Local Politics and Bridge News• Jaqueline Strano (@jmstrano) on her upcoming embroidery workshop at Curated Momentum (@curatedmomentum)• The Dog Days of Summer• Three doggy jokes with Freddie Friday (@freddiefridaystoryfuntime) with a PSA for the Itty Bitty Kitty Bay Ridge Cat Rescue (@ittybittykittynybayridge)• Rob Burnett (@burnie_re) and Luisa Zapata (@luisa_inbayridge) with your real estate needs• Looking ahead to the Harvest season and Old Home WeekSubscribe to the Bay Ridge Digest’s Monday Morning roundup email for free at bayridgedigest.com/newsletter-1 and join the more than three thousand people who want more info on everything going on in Bay Ridge.For more info on how to submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.com. You can also get in touch by emailing [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

This is The Bay Ridge Digest's Monday Morning Roundup for 07/13/2026. These are the highlights. Subscribe to the free email at BayRidgeDigest.com for the full breath of everything happening in Bay Ridge this week. Know of important stories or events that will be happening this Summer? Please send them to me! My goal is to make this the most jam-packed Bay Ridge email out there. You can submit things to me in the forms at https://bayridgedigest.com/When you subscribe and open the email, you’ll notice that local businesses have sponsored this email. For one monthly fee your business’ logo can appear in 4-5 monthly emails with a link out to your choice. If this interests you and you want more information, please check out my Media Kit — https://www.bayridgedigest.com/media-kit. Already know you want to become a sponsor? Do so here — Patreon.com/TheBayRidgeDigest. 

This is The Bay Ridge Digest's Monday Morning Roundup for 07/06/2026. These are the highlights. Subscribe to the free email at BayRidgeDigest.com for the full breath of everything happening in Bay Ridge this week. Know of important stories or events that will be happening this Summer? Please send them to me! My goal is to make this the most jam-packed Bay Ridge email out there. You can submit things to me in the forms at https://bayridgedigest.com/When you subscribe and open the email, you’ll notice that local businesses have sponsored this email. For one monthly fee your business’ logo can appear in 4-5 monthly emails with a link out to your choice. If this interests you and you want more information, please check out my Media Kit — https://www.bayridgedigest.com/media-kit. Already know you want to become a sponsor? Do so here — Patreon.com/TheBayRidgeDigest. 

Welcome to the debut edition of The Bay Ridge Digest’s Monday Morning roundup. While you're listening to this in the Bay Ridge Digest podcast feed, I'd suggest subscribing to this as a free email at BayRidgeDigest.com. Every Monday at around 6AM you'll receive the weekly email of important news and events happening in our area. Know of important stories or events that will be happening this Summer? Please send them to me! My goal is to make this the most jam-packed Bay Ridge email out there. You can submit things to me in the forms at https://bayridgedigest.com/Are you someone who has been listening to The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast since its debut last fall and is excited for the upcoming weekly email newsletter? You can support all these Bay Ridge Digest pieces of media for as little as $5 per month here — Patreon.com/TheBayRidgeDigest. Click the "Red Tier: Personal Supporters" tab. Anyone who supports will have their names listed at the bottom of the weekly email and on the Sponsors page at BayRidgeDigest.com.

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 17! We visit The Mighty Functional Fitness studio, grab a bite at the new Schnitzel Haus, and wash it all away at Coney Island. Featured in this episode are these segments: • Fred Urban of Schnitzel Haus (@schnitzelhausbk) on renovating and opening up the new location at 114 Bay Ridge Avenue, the public support, what’s on the menu, and what’s on tap. • Summer vacation jokes with Freddie Friday (@freddiefridaystoryfuntime) with a PSA for the Itty Bitty Kitty Bay Ridge Cat Rescue (@ittybittykittynybayridge)• Victoria Salerno of Mighty Functional Fitness Studio (@mightyfunctionalfitness) on opening up the studio inside The Green Spa and Wellness Center (@thegreenspa) and what training courses she offers• Coney Island in the 20th Century with some words of wisdom from the late, great Jean Shepherd. Coming this Monday, June 29th, The Bay Ridge Digest Monday morning roundup email. It’ll feature local events, classifieds, restaurant recs, human interest, and other important Bay Ridge happenings. It’s free to receive. Sign up for this at bayridgedigest.com.Know of important stories or events that will be happening this Summer? Please send them to me! My goal is to make this the most jam-packed Bay Ridge email out there. You can submit things to me in the forms at bayridgedigest.com.I'm selling logo placements in the weekly emails. For one monthly fee your business' logo can appear in weekly emails with a link out to the destination of your choice. I've sold out of the larger slots, but I still have slots available at $30, $60, $90 per month. Once again, that's one monthly fee to be featured in four to five emails per month. Interested in this and want more info? Check out my Media Kit at BayRidgeDigest.com. Already know you want to be a sponsor? Do so at Patreon.com/TheBayRidgeDigest. If you’re a person who wants to support, you can do so for as little as five dollars per month through the Patreon. Click the "Red Tier: Personal Supporters" tab in the memberships section. .Anyone who supports the newsletter and podcast through Patreon will have their names listed in both the weekly email and on a Sponsors page at BayRidgeDigest.com beginning on Monday June 29th.For more info on how to submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.com. You can also get in touch by emailing [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 16! We talk about Coney Island, community theater, growing up in Bensonhurst, and meet several ladies running small businesses in the neighborhood. Featured in this episode are these segments: • A life in fashion with Sew ‘N Fashion’s (@sew.n.fashion_bk) Alyson Melhus• What exactly is a Coney? Coney Island’s early history• Growing Up In Bensonhurst with Victoria Salerno of Mighty Functional Fitness Studio (@mightyfunctionalfitness)• The First Happy Father’s Day in 15 Years• Anna from Anna Bella Pizza Cafe (@annabellapizzacafe) with how family tragedy led her to a life as a foodie, opening up Anna Bella Pizza Cafe, and how her and her husband Hisham are running this new sourdough pizza cafe• Dreamland Burns Down• Music the World Makes with John P. Loonam (@jploonam)• At the grand opening the new Law Offices of Khalifeh and Strupinsky (@khalifehstrupinsky) • Community Theater with Jeff Samaha (@jeff_samaha)• Wedding and Summer Jokes with Freddie Friday (@freddiefridaystoryfuntime) with a PSA for the Itty Bitty Kitty Bay Ridge Cat Rescue (@ittybittykittynybayridge)• Running Sew ‘N Fashion and courses offered (@sew.n.fashion_bk) with Alyson MelhusComing June 29th: The Bay Ridge Digest Monday morning roundup email. It’ll feature local events, classifieds, restaurant recs, human interest, and other important Bay Ridge happenings. Want to receive this? Want to submit a story or important event you already know that will be happening this Summer? Do all that at BayRidgeDigest.com.Want to have your businesses logo featured in the weekly email for one small monthly fee? Go to Patreon.com/TheBayRidgeDigest to do so, and the Media Kit at BayRidgeDigest.com to find out more. To individually support all these Bay Ridge Digest pieces of media for as little as $5 per month, please go to Patreon.com/TheBayRidgeDigest. For more info on how to submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.com. You can also get in touch by emailing [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

Coming June 29th: The Bay Ridge Digest Monday morning roundup email. It’ll feature local events, classifieds, restaurant recs, human interest, and other important Bay Ridge happenings. Want to receive this? Want to submit a story or important event you already know that will be happening this Summer? Do all that at BayRidgeDigest.com.Want to have your businesses logo featured in the weekly email for one small monthly fee? Go to Patreon.com/TheBayRidgeDigest to do so, and the Media Kit at BayRidgeDigest.com to find out more. To individually support all these Bay Ridge Digest pieces of media for as little as $5 per month, please go to Patreon.com/TheBayRidgeDigest and click on the “Red Tier.” Your support means the world as this whole shebang grows. 

How do we define a ghost? What makes us gravitate towards spooky stories, and not just in October?What causes these supposed paranormal things to happen? Are they trapped spirits who are unable to move on? Inter-dimensional visitors? Energetic imprints from the past history of a house? Or is it something ancient? Something tied to the land itself. I grew up in a house on Bay Parkway in Bensonhurst that had lots of strange activity. Don’t believe me? Just ask my mom. Want to take a ghost tour and see me in person? I’m leading Haunted Bay Ridge on Saturday June 6th at 6:30PM. Tickets can be found here — https://www.eventbrite.com/e/haunted-bay-ridge-revised-tickets-1987612124369, at the tours and events tab at BayRidgeDigest.com, or through the linktr.ee at @BayRidgeDigest or @TheWallBreakers on Instagram. 

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 15, we speak with the owner of the Fort Hamilton Distillery, salute the importance of Memorial Day, and meet several small business owners. Featured in this episode are these segments: • The inspiration for Fort Hamilton Distillery (@fort.hamilton.distillery) in Industry City (@industrycity) with co-founder Alex Clark• Anna from Anna Bella Pizza Cafe (@annabellapizzacafe) with a big hello and their late Spring menu and hours• The history behind “In Flanders Fields” and how to donate to local Poppy funds through @forthamiltonfmwr and local VFWs• Jeff Samaha (@jeff_samaha) on working the Today Show, David Letterman, Nightly News with Tom Brokaw, how Ridge Chorale expanded in the 1970s and 1980s, and meeting his wife Mary Ann• Three Light-Hearted Jokes from Freddie Friday (@freddiefridaystoryfuntime) with a PSA for the Itty Bitty Kitty Bay Ridge Cat Rescue (@ittybittykittynybayridge)• Establishing the first Doula program at the New York Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital and launching The Brooklyn Birth Shop (@brooklynbirthshop) with Kerri Evers• The history of the Memorial Day Weekend International Lifeboat Race in the Narrows• Mighty Functional Fitness (@mightyfunctionalfitness) offerings with Victoria Salerno• Selections from The Price of Their Toys with John P. Loonam (@jploonam)• Sew ‘N Fashion’s (@sew.n.fashion_bk) upcoming anniversary party and summer camp with Alyson Melhus• Launching and running the Fort Hamilton Distillery (@fort.hamilton.distillery) with Alex Clark • The story behind the Flagg Court Pool Closure with Christine Walters (@finnmom) of Three Day Champion (@threedaychampion)Coming in Monday, June 29th, The Bay Ridge Digest weekly Monday morning roundup email. It’ll feature upcoming Bay Ridge events, local classifieds, restaurant recs, human interest, and other Bay Ridge happenings. Want to sign up for this and find out more? Please do so at the completely revamped  BayRidgeDigest.comFor more info on how to submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.com. You can also get in touch by emailing [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 14, we remember through the eyes of three Bay Ridge residents: A doula, a writer, and a musical director. In doing so, we’ll span several decades and maybe find out more about ourselves through the process. Featured in this episode are these segments: • With Jeff Samaha (@jeff_samaha) at St. Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church (@stmarysbrooklynya) and Hinch’s in the 1950s• Jess from The Bookmark Shoppe (@thebookmarkshoppe) with some Bay Ridge-centric reads • Three Light-Hearted Jokes from Freddie Friday (@freddiefridaystoryfuntime) with a PSA for the Itty Bitty Kitty Bay Ridge Cat Rescue (@ittybittykittynybayridge)• Jeff Samaha on Forming Ridge Chorale and Becoming a stage manager at NBC in the 1960s• Growing Up on Long Island with John P. Loonam (@jploonam)• Tony Christiano of Nonno’s Pizza (@nonnospizza) on their most popular offerings and funny requests• Why I’m launching the upcoming Bay Ridge Digest weekly Monday morning email newsletter in June• Moving to Manhattan and then Bay Ridge, with John P. Loonam• Growing up in Bay Ridge and Becoming a Doula, with Kerri Evers of The Brooklyn Birth Shop (@brooklynbirthshop)• What defines a haunting with Christopher Wiecha and Aimee Pagano (@aimeenicolecollin)Coming in June, The Bay Ridge Digest weekly Monday morning roundup email. It’ll feature upcoming Bay Ridge events, local classifieds, restaurant recs, human interest, and other Bay Ridge happenings. Want to sign up for this and find out more? Please do so at the completely revamped BayRidgeDigest.comFor more info on how to submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.com. You can also get in touch by emailing [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 13, we head to Fort Hamilton High School, find out what goes into a career in media, eat some artisanal cookies, ride the Iguazu river, and head back to 1986. Highlights:• Chernobyl, AIDS, Mafia Wars — April 1986 in NYC at the Marboro Theater on Bay Parkway• Chelsea Ciccone and Ciccone’s Artisan Bakehouse• Scenes from the Fort Hamilton High School Hall of Fame Wall Unveiling with Joe Estrella• Your weeknight food needs with Michelle Perricone of Anthony’s Butcher & Deli• Dan Rathers and the CBS Evening News on Chernobyl• A life in Media and Communications with Christine Walters• Farm Jokes with Freddie Friday• The Iguazu Grand Opening with Rafaela Negrao• A Latte Da Cafe Promo with Ron Kavral• At the Brighton Bazaar in April 1986• Hassan Haidar and Moory Elshemy on their friendship and establishing a culture and community space at The Healing Bean Cafe• What makes Bay Ridge such a special place with Catherine O’Rourke, Karen Tadross, Connie Gibilaro Malone, Aimee Pagano, Katie Coughlin, Dr. Marla Loughran, Erica Stavrou, Emily Pagano, Michelle Perricone, Shaki Usarova, Jan Rideout, John Calascione, Reina Anderson, Erik Gislason, Kayla Santosuosso, Samia Aljahmi, James Vavas, Laurie Savino, Sal Forte, and Daymein ForteThe reading material used in today’s episode included articles from:• The New York Daily News• The New York Times• Newsday• PastDaily.comComing later this Spring, the next step in The Bay Ridge Digest: A weekly Monday morning roundup email, delivered straight to your inbox, featuring important upcoming Bay Ridge events, local classifieds, restaurant recs, human interest, and other important Bay Ridge happenings. If you’re a business owner reading this, I’ll be releasing the email wireframe and media kit in the coming weeks. It’ll show affordable sponsorship opportunity placements within this email. I’ll also be explaining how people can purchase classified ads within the newsletter. All other stories covered within will be free of charge. Want to receive this? Sign up for this email in the form at BayRidgeDigest.com. Want to submit a story or important event you already know that will be happening in say, June or July? Do so with that same form or email me at [email protected] more info on how to submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.com. You can also get in touch by emailing [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 12 we recap Tastes of Third, hang out by Flagg Court, commune with the president of Fort Hamilton’s Alumni Association, find out what’s happening on 5th Avenue, and gear up for Pizza Wars. Highlights:• Scenes from Jackie Robinson’s first game in 1947• Growing Up in Analog Brooklyn with Joe Estrella• Some Tastes of Third Avenue Highlights with Saravá Bistro, Anthony’s Butcher & Deli, Latte Da, and Brooklyn Dipped• Bay Ridge 5th Avenue BID News with Executive Director Elizabeth Lovejoy• Growing up in Flagg Court with Christine Walters• An Upcoming Pizza Wars Promo with The Merchants of Third Avenue’s Chrisie Canny• The Fort Hamilton High School’s Upcoming Hall of Fame Ceremony with Alumni Association President Joe Estrella• April and Tax Day Jokes with Freddie Friday• Three Day Champion with Christine WaltersThe reading material used in today’s episode included articles from:• BayRidgeFlagCourt.com• The Bay Ridge Home Reporter• The Brooklyn Daily Eagle• Brownstoner.com• PastDaily.comComing later this Spring, the next step in The Bay Ridge Digest: A weekly Monday morning roundup email, delivered straight to your inbox, featuring important upcoming Bay Ridge events, local classifieds, restaurant recs, human interest, and other important Bay Ridge happenings. If you’re a business owner listening to this, I’ll be releasing the email wireframe and media kit in the coming weeks. It’ll show affordable sponsorship opportunity placements within this email. I’ll also be explaining how people can purchase classified ads within the newsletter. All other stories covered within will be free of charge. Want to receive this? Sign up for this email in the form at BayRidgeDigest.com. Want to submit a story or important event you already know that will be happening in say, June or July? Do so with that same form or email me at [email protected] more info on how to submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.com. You can also get in touch by emailing [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

Hey everyone, James Scully here. One of my first post-college jobs was for a daily email newsletter called DailyCandy. Ladies of a certain age might remember it. DailyCandy sent you the daily fashion, food, and fun in your city. Created in 2000 by Dany Levy, it helped spawn UrbanDaddy, Thrilllist, and countless other email newsletters. Why am I bringing this up?Later this spring, I’ll be launching the next step in The Bay Ridge Digest: A weekly Monday morning roundup email, delivered straight to your inbox, featuring important upcoming Bay Ridge events, local classifieds, restaurant recs, human interest, and other important Bay Ridge happenings. If you’re a business owner listening to this, I’ll be releasing the email wireframe and media kit in the coming weeks showing affordable sponsorship opportunity placements within this email. I’ll also be explaining how people can purchase classified ads within the newsletter. All other stories covered within will be free of charge. Want to receive this? Sign up for this email in the form at BayRidgeDigest.com. Want to submit a story or important event you already know that will be happening in say, June or July? Do so with that same form or email me, James Scully, at [email protected] always, if you have any questions, reach out to me at [email protected] or shoot me a DM @BayRidgeDigest on Instagram. Episode 12 of The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast will be out on April 9th. Until then, I’ll catch you on the flip side. 

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 11 we grab a cup of coffee, go to pilates, eat a good slice, take a sound bath, head to a disco popup, and celebrate Ramadan. Highlights:• The Flagg Court Playhouse rehearses “Dial M for Murder” in April of 1956 • Sara Barkouli with Samia Aljahmi on living in Bay Ridge and Celebrating this Ramadan• Chrisie Canny with a Pizza Wars Disco Popup Promo• The Inspiration behind Brooklyn Is The World with Connie Gibilaro Malone• K.T. The Alchemist and Kaitie Meisner of Transformational Tones on their journey to Bay Ridge• Spring Jokes with Freddie Friday• Tony Christiano of Nonno’s Pizza on their most popular offerings and funny requests• What am I doing here?• Shaki Usarova of Boutique Pilates on being inspired to, opening, and running the studio• Looking Ahead to AprilI asked in this episode: What were you doing in April of 2018? What have you done in moments when you felt lost to find your way forward? Whom did you rely on? I’d like to know, and if you wouldn’t mind the world knowing, please send your responses to me. I’ll read some of them in upcoming episodes of The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast. Submit them to me through the form at bayridgedigest.com.  The reading material used in today’s episode included:• Monitor: Take 2: By Dennis Hart As well as articles from:• BayRidgeFlagCourt.com• The Bay Ridge Home Reporter• Brownstoner.com• The Los Angeles Times• The New York Daily News• The New York Times• PastDaily.comScript writing, Emceeing, editing, producing, mixing, directing. What are these? All things I do. In need of any of this and want to get in touch? Add me on Linkedin, reach me at [email protected], or go to TheWallBreakers.com to see what else I’ve been up to. I’ve got tours coming up on March 27th, March 29th, April 12th, and April 18th. For tickets and more info on all my tours go to Linktr.ee/TheWallBreakers or follow either my @BayRidgeDigest or @TheWallBreakers instagram accounts. If you’re interested in more info about advertising rates, or other various audio production capabilities, please go to TheWallBreakers.com or email me at [email protected] more info on how to submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.com. You can also get in touch by emailing [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 10 we welcome the first signs of Spring with a butterfly’s journey, holistic healing, throwing clay, delicious food, and a good bottle of wine. Highlights:• Katie Coughlin, The Ovington Artist’s Colony, and Ovington Pottery• March Books and Events with Jess from The Bookmark Shoppe• Elias B. Dunn and an unexpectedly bad March 1888 rainstorm• Connie Gibilaro Malone on her new children’s book Brooklyn Is the World• March Wines and Favorite Wine Bottles with Catherine O’Rourke of Cellary• St. Patrick’s Day jokes from Freddie Friday with a PSA for the Itty Bitty Kitty Bay Ridge Cat Rescue• Dr. Marla Loughran on the Healthy Path Foundation and the upcoming 10 Annual Casino Night Gala• The Great Blizzard of 1888 in Bay Ridge and Fort Hamilton• News on the Merchants of Third Avenue’s upcoming Taste of Third Avenue with Chrisie Canny• The Worst Storm Anyone Has Witnessed• Radio Waves• Looking ahead to Ramadan celebrations, sound baths, and a disco popupThe reading material used in today’s episode included:• “The Mighty Blizzard of 1888” — By Edward Oxford for American History Illustrated, March 1988• Blast from the Past: A Pictorial History of Radio's First 75 Years — By B. Eric Rhoads• “The First Gentrifiers” — By Henry Stewart for BKLYNR Issue 38, November 6th, 2014As well as articles from• AmericanHeritage.com• The Brooklyn Daily Times• The Brooklyn Eagle• The New York Herald• The New York Times• The Times UnionScript writing, Emceeing, editing, producing, mixing, directing. What are these? All things I do. In need of any of this and want to get in touch? Add me on Linkedin, reach me at [email protected], or go to TheWallBreakers.com to see what else I’ve been up to. I’ve got tours coming up this month, including one this Sunday March 15th and a special edition of Haunted Bay Ridge on Friday March 27th. For tickets and more info on all my tours please click on Linktr.ee/TheWallBreakers on either my @BayRidgeDigest or @TheWallBreakers instagram bios. Subscribe to The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast everywhere you get your podcasts.To submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

Hey everyone!, How about this balmy and calm winter we’ve been having huh!? I’ve been chomping at the bit to lead some Bay Ridge walking tours and have put some on the schedule for March and April. See the tours below. Click on the dates for more info and tickets.Murder, Mayhem, Money and History in Old South Bay Ridge• Sunday 3/15/2026 at 1PM• Sunday 4/12/2026 at 1PMA special version of Haunted Bay Ridge!• Friday 3/27/2026 at 6PMMurder, Mayhem, Money and History in Old North Bay Ridge• Sunday 3/29/2026 at 1PM • Saturday 4/18/2026 at 1PMYou can also find more information by following @TheWallBreakers or @BayRidgeDigest on Instagram and going to Linktr.ee/TheWallBreakers in the bio. If you're in Bay Ridge this Sunday March 1st, head over to Delias Lounge at 9224 3rd Avenue for Irish Day, starting at 1PM. There will be a collaboration with Chef Michele Moran on a special Irish food menu featuring things like fish and chips, corned beef, shepherd's pie, a Gaelic burger and more. At 3PM The Black Swans will be performing traditional Irish music. For more info go to DeliasLounge.com or follow @DeliasLounge on Instagram. 

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 9 we pick up our chats with some of Bay Ridge’s best hospitality, social, and restaurant professionals. Highlights:• At the Shore Road Casino in 1938• Sal and Daymein Forte of The HoM Store on working together, surviving COVID, and bouncing back• Catherine O’Rouke of Cellary with February events and offerings• The Death of Nino Colombo at 9269 Shore Road• Karen Tadross of Bay Ridge Cares on her love for our National Parks• President’s Week jokes from Freddie Friday with a PSA for the Itty Bitty Kitty Bay Ridge Cat Rescue• John Calascione of High Wire Distilling on Jimmy Red Bourbon, bonded whiskey, and High Wire’s growth• Lunch at Reichert’s Tea Room on 86th and 5th in 1938• Dave Kovalchick of Matka Wodka on how Matka helps refugees, Blue Team International, and tracing his family roots• Jan Rideout on moving back to Bay Ridge• O’Sullivan’s Bar and Grill with Orson Welles and Agnes MooreheadThe reading material used in today’s episode included:• Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 — by Jim RamsburgAs well as articles from:• The Brooklyn Daily EagleScript writing, Emceeing, editing, producing, mixing, directing. What are these? All things I do. In need of any of this and want to get in touch? Add me on Linkedin, reach me at [email protected], or go to TheWallBreakers.com to see what else I’ve been up to. A special thank you to Henry Stewart. For more info on the Nino Columbo and Christina Oliveri homicide, please search for Henry’s article, “True Crime Bay Ridge: A Mafia Murder on Shore Road.”If you’re interested in learning more about Orson Welles’ life and career during the 1930s, please search for “Breaking Walls Episode 79: The Boy Wonder—Orson Welles' Early Career.” This particular homicide is a stop on my Murder, Mayhem, Money, and History in Old Bay Ridge Tour. I’ll be running two different versions of this tour on Sunday March 22nd and Sunday March 29th. For tix and more info, please go to Linktr.ee/TheWallBreakers.   Subscribe to The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast everywhere you get your podcasts.To submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 8 we bop around Bay Ridge sipping drinks, sampling food, and talking with some of our neighborhood’s best hospitality, social, and restaurant professionals. Highlights:• Wing Wars 2026 Recap with Chrisie Canny and Chris Guttadaro• Ronny Jaramillo of Bar Chuzo on his family, Ecuador and NYC, Bar Crudo, Chuzo Culture, and opening up Bar Chuzo• Crime Prevention Week in 1951• Jan Rideout on losing her home in Hurricane Katrina and opening up the JLaurie Shoe Boutique• Dave Kovalchick of Matka Wodka on growing up in Pennsylvania, Helping Refugees in Ukraine, and working for Matka Wodka• James Vavas, President of The Merchants of Third Avenue, on Scouting America and why he got involved in the insurance business• Carmine Persico and a Gowanus Canal rub out in 1951• Jordan Gass-Pooré on her mentor, being an entertainment journalist, and her favorite Gowanus Canal chemicals• Tom Perone of The Corner and Brooklyn Roots on meeting his wife, the heartbeat of a restaurant, the story behind Brooklyn Roots, and how The Corner is hitting its stride• Ron Kavral of Latte Da Cafes on opening the cafe with Joe, why their coffee is so fresh, the upcoming grand opening, and seasonal specialties• Valentines Day jokes from Freddie Friday with a PSA for the Itty Bitty Kitty Bay Ridge Cat Rescue• Sal and Daymein Forte of The HoM Store on meeting, how the shop has evolved, sourcing goods, and staying ahead of the curve• Catherine O’Rouke of Cellary with seasonal offerings• John Calascione of High Wire Distilling on growing up in South Slope, hanging out in Bay Ridge, getting in the wine and spirits industry, and working for Fresh Direct• Steve Bove’s autopsy report from The Leif Erikson Tavern in 1951The reading material used in today’s episode included:• Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 — by Jim RamsburgAs well as articles from:• The Brooklyn EagleScript writing, Emceeing, editing, producing, mixing, directing. What are these? All things I do. In need of any of this and want to get in touch? Add me on Linkedin, reach me at [email protected], or go to TheWallBreakers.com to see what else I’ve been up to. And be on the look out for walking tours I’m leading. I’m launching a new one in Gowanus, and will be bringing back my Bay Ridge tours as the weather warms. For tickets and more info, please go to Linktr.ee/TheWallBreakers. You can also find ticket links through @thewallbreakers on Instagram or the tours and events tab at TheWallBreakers.com.Subscribe to The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast everywhere you get your podcasts.To submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 7 we pick up our chats with some of the influential women of Bay Ridge, and go back in time to highlight the beginning of the destruction of Bay Ridge for the construction of the Verrazzano Bridge. Highlights:• New Year’s Day 1959: The Narrows Bridge Approach is Approved• Jan Rideout in Dallas and Mississippi• Bay Ridge Homes to Be Destroyed: Progress or Tyranny?• Jordan Gass-Pooré on The Gowanus Canal• Catherine O’Rourke of Cellary on Opening up the Shop• January Jokes from Freddie Friday• Erica Stavrou of Owl’s Head Yoga on Opening up the Shop and Beyond• The Fight to Call the Narrows Bridge the Verrazano Bridge• Michelle Perricone of Anthony’s Butcher & Deli on Growing as a Business Owner and January Offerings• The End of January 1959• Sal and Daymein Forte on Who is the Better Dancer• Looking Ahead to Bay Ridge’s Food and DrinkThe reading material used in today’s episode included articles from: • The New York Daily News• The New York TimesBe on the lookout for walking tours I’m leading. Jordan Gass-Pooré and I are launching a new tour of Gowanus called “Gowanus: From Revolutionary Battlefront to Toxic Wonderland" on Sunday February 8th, and Sunday February 22nd. Both tours will be at 1PM. For tickets and more info, please go to Linktr.ee/TheWallBreakers. You can also find ticket links through @thewallbreakers on Instagram or the tours and events tab at TheWallBreakers.com. Subscribe to The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast everywhere you get your podcasts.To submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 6 we focus on some of the women making our community one of leaders, entrepreneurs, creative minds, and strong personalities in a way that only Bay Ridge can be. Highlights:• Erica Stavrou of Owl’s Head Yoga on growing up In South Brooklyn and becoming a Yogi• Emily Pagano on loving retail, owning Mixx Boutique, and the New Year’s Refresh• Michelle Perricone on being a foodie, ad sales, and owning Anthony’s Butcher & Deli• A January 1978 brutal cold front• Catherine O’Rourke of Cellary on falling in love with, and becoming educated about wine• New Year jokes from Freddie Friday• Reminiscences of Lock Yard with Council Member Kayla Santosuosso • Jan Rideout on Growing up in Canarsie, the 1980 Transit Strike, and Leaving Bay Ridge• Watching Saturday Night Fever at the Alpine in 1978• Looking Ahead with a Bay Ridge blizzardThe reading material used in today’s episode included articles from:• A Dangerous Woman: New York's First Lady Liberty — By Victor H. CooperAs well as articles from:• The Chicago Tribune• The New York Daily News• The New Yorker• The New York Times• The Staten Island Advance• VarietyInterested in learning more about Bay Ridge and hey seeing me in person too!? I’m leading two separate history-based walking tours this month. They’re Murder, Mayhem, Money, and History in Old Bay Ridge. One covers the northern side of the neighborhood on January 18th, and one covers the south side on January 25th. I’m also co-launching a new tour around the past, present and future of Gowanus. More deets to follow in a couple of weeks. For tickets and more info to my walking tours, please go to Linktr.ee/TheWallBreakers. You can also find ticket links through @thewallbreakers on Instagram or the tours and events tab at TheWallBreakers.com.Subscribe to The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast everywhere you get your podcasts.To submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 5, we celebrate the holidays in Bay Ridge. Highlights:• Karen Tadross on Running Bay Ridge Cares• Reina Anderson on Running Henry Harde’s and Winter Offerings• December 28th, 1944 in Bay Ridge• Jan Rideout on Retiring in Bay Ridge• Freddie Friday says Happy Holidays and highlighting the Itty Bitty Kitty Bay Ridge Rescue• A Christmas Dream for Bay Ridge by Frank Griffin in 1961• Holiday Thoughts from James Scully• Looking Ahead to the New YearThe reading material used in today’s episode included articles from:• The Bay Ridge Home Reporter• The Brooklyn Eagle• The New York Daily News• The New York Times• PastDaily.comInterested in tickets and more info to my upcoming Christmas in Old Bay Ridge walking tours? Please go to https://linktr.ee/thewallbreakersSubscribe to The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast everywhere you get your podcasts.To submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 4, we take stock and usher in a season of cheer with tree lightings, Christmas carols, overeating, and caring about our fellow citizens. Highlights:• James Vavas and the Merchants of Third Avenue Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration• Michelle Perricone and Anthony’s Butcher & Deli Holiday Traditions• December 19th, 1944 at St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church with WW2 News• Louis Coluccio and A.L.C. Italian Grocery• Karen Tadross on Producing Musical Theater and Launching Bay Ridge Cares• Christmastime on Senator Street with Aimee Pagano Colin• Henry Harde’s 92nd Anniversary and Holiday Festivities with Reina Anderson• December 20th, 1944 at the Bay Ridge Telephone Building with Bastogne Updates• Holiday Jokes from Freddie Friday and highlighting the Itty Bitty Kitty Bay Ridge Rescue• Upcoming Transportation Tasks with Transportation Alternative’s Rose Uscianowski• Holiday Memories with Catherine O’Rourke from Cellary• Holiday Reflections and an Upcoming Owl’s Head Yoga Beginner’s Workshop with Erica Stavrou• December 21st, 1944 with Bing Crosby at the Leif Erickson Tavern• Looking ahead to Christmas with Toys for Tots and Nicole RussellThe reading material used in today’s episode included:• Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 — by Jim RamsburgAs well as articles from:• The Brooklyn Eagle• Nationalww2museum.org• The New York Daily News• The New York Times• StPatrickBayRidge.Org• warontherocks.comInterested in tickets and more info to my upcoming Christmas in Old Bay Ridge walking tours? Please go to https://linktr.ee/thewallbreakersSubscribe to The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast everywhere you get your podcasts.To submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 3, we celebrate Thanksgiving in Bay Ridge with interviews, recollections, a bit of history, humor, and of course, food. Highlights:• Bay Ridge Cares Thanksgiving Meal Delivery Service with Karen Tadross• Three Upcoming Christmas Tree Lightings• Thanksgiving 2025 with A.L.C. Italian Grocery and Louis Coluccio• Reasons for Gratitude with Laurie Savino• Thanksgiving Plans and Expanded Hours with Catherine O’Rourke from Cellary• Thanksgiving 1947 in Bay Ridge’s Changing World• Minnesota Nice Along The Shear Line with Eirik Gislason• November’s New Books with Jess from The Bookmark Shoppe• Narrows Botanical Garden in the Winter with Jimmy D. Johnson• Thanksgiving Jokes from Freddie Friday and highlighting Sean Casey Animal Rescue• News on the New Staten Island to Bay Ridge Ferry Connection with Rose Uscianowski• Dear Folks, by Martin J. Hansen from Thanksgiving 1955• Looking Ahead to the Holiday Season with Erica StavrouThe reading material used in today’s episode included:• Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 — by Jim RamsburgAs well as articles from:• The Bay Ridge Home Reporter• Broadcasting Magazine• The Brooklyn Daily Eagle• Radio DailyInterested in tickets and more info to my upcoming Christmas in Old Bay Ridge walking tours? Please go to https://linktr.ee/thewallbreakersSubscribe to The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast everywhere you get your podcasts.To submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigest

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 2, take a trip along the shore line to the Narrows Botanical Garden, talk to the woman behind Destination Bay Ridge, meet a new resident of our neighborhood, learn more about the Brooklyn Hall of Fame, and hear from the President of the Merchants of Third Avenue about upcoming holiday festivities.Highlights:• The Narrows Botanical Garden, with Jimmy Johnson• How Shore Road became Shore Road• Thanksgiving Wines with Catherine from Cellary• Our New Neighbor, with Nicole Russell• Jokes from Freddie Friday and highlighting Sean Casey Animal Rescue• Destination Bay Ridge, with Laurie Savino• 1958 Election Results — Fighting to Stop The Narrows Bridge• Thanksgiving Packages with Michelle from Anthony’s Butcher & Deli• The Brooklyn Hall of Fame, with Chis Wiecha• Upcoming Tree Lighting with James Vavas from the Merchants of Third Avenue• Looking Ahead to ThanksgivingThe reading material used in today’s episode included:• Reminiscences of Old New Utrecht and Gowanus — By Charlotte Rebecca Bangs• Gotham: A History of New York City to 1898 — By Edwin G. Burrows and Mike Wallace• How Bay Ridge Became Bay Ridge — By Henry Stewart• The Bridge — By Gay TaleseAs well as articles from• The Bay Ridge Home Reporter• The Brooklyn Daily Eagle• Hey Ridge • The New York Sun• The New York TimesSubscribe to The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast everywhere you get your podcasts.To submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigestFor more info on about my walking tours, advertising rates, or other various audio production capabilities, please go to TheWallBreakers.com or https://linktr.ee/thewallbreakers

In The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast episode 1, we celebrate Mischief Night and Halloween with trips to cemeteries and old houses. We’ll stop by the 5th Avenue B.I.D.’s office, learn from a negotiation expert, and talk about life in Bay Ridge with a local leader. Highlights:• Who was Frederick Hardy Jr.?• The Early History of Bay Ridge, with Aimee Pagano Collin• Michelle from Anthony’s Butcher Shop• The Season of Fear, with Eirik Gislason• Jokes from Freddie Friday• A Life in Bay Ridge, with Kayla Santosuosso• Jess from The Bookmark Shoppe• J. Frank Griffin’s Editorial on the Narrows Bridge• The Fifth Avenue B.I.D., with Elizabeth Lovejoy• This Old House, with Aimee Pagano Collin• Catherine from Cellary• The Ghosts of New Utrecht Past, with Christopher Wiecha• Looking Ahead to NovemberThe reading material used in today’s episode included:• An Historical Sketch of the City of Brooklyn and the Surrounding Neighborhood, 1840 — By J.T. Bailey• Reminiscences of Old New Utrecht and Gowanus — By Charlotte Rebecca Bangs• Gotham: A History of New York City to 1898 — By Edwin G. Burrows and Mike Wallace• Old Brooklyn In Early Photographs  — By William Lee Younger• Native Americans in Brooklyn — A Primary Source Packet As well as articles from• The Bay Ridge Home Reporter• The Brooklyn Daily Eagle• Hey Ridge And the Obituary of Sonja Bernt Jones from MonarchSociety.comSubscribe to The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast everywhere you get your podcasts.To submit a story lead, please go to BayRidgeDigest.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bayridgedigest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bayridgedigestIf you’re interested in more info about my walking tours, advertising rates, or other various audio production capabilities, please go to TheWallBreakers.com or email me at [email protected]

Coming Thursday, October 30th: The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast, a new bi-weekly hyperlocal Bay Ridge show, combining everything from culture, restaurant recs, history stories, current events, interviews, humor, and human interest. It’s produced and directed by me, James Scully, and available everywhere you get your podcasts and at BayRidgeDigest.com

You've found the feed for The Bay Ridge Digest Podcast, coming this fall, 2025. It's a new bi-weekly hyper-local Bay Ridge digest podcast combining everything from local culture, restaurant recommendations, local history stories, current events, interviews, humor, and human interest.To find out more, please go to BayRidgeDigest.com where you can subscribe for email updates and submit story leads.