Written by Kayla Schmidt
North Salem resident Jason Kadlec is the writer and founder of the cartoon Teddy’s Friends and licensed real estate salesperson for Christie’s International, used his wealth of knowledge about the community to serve as a judge.
Why did you want to be a judge?
I was asked, and I accepted because I thought it’d be fun, and I felt like I could give back to the community a little bit by having a say on some of these wonderful businesses.
What’s your professional background?
I am mainly in real estate sales, but really all different areas of real estate. I also do a kids’ animated series called Teddy’s Friends. They are my way of helping and giving back to people, even though they’re my profession.
What perspective did you bring as a judge?
I looked for quality; I looked for customer service. I took it from personal experience because I’ve gone to a lot of these local businesses myself. Also, I think my critical thinking skills helped. And the fact that I like quality and I have a good eye for these types of things.
What did you expect as a judge?
I pictured it exactly the way it turned out, which was a very diplomatic process. People were very reasonable. I was excited about that, but I was also looking forward to giving back. I loved that part of it, and being able to have a say in that was kind of fun. And I was excited to learn about the businesses from different perspectives, especially from the other judges.
What kind of judge are you?
Funny. I brought a lot of humor to the table; we made some jokes, and especially if we were stuck on something or if some of the businesses were tied, I would try to crack some jokes. But I also think I was pretty fair.
Which famous judge best matches your personality?
I would say Jamie Lee Curtis. She’s very opinionated, but very fair, and a very straight shooter, which I appreciate in a powerful woman like her.
What was the biggest challenge as a judge?
Not getting too attached to the results.
Last question: Who would make a better judge, Oscar the Grouch or Kermit the Frog?
Oscar the Grouch. He’s real. Wait, back up, Kermit, because of his genuine sense of caring for his community and his friends.
This article was published in the January/February 2025 edition of Connect to Northern Westchester.
Kayla Schmidt
Kayla Schmidt is a freshman at Horace Greeley High School. She is part of the newspaper and the SADD club, and she is also the co-manager of the track team. In her free time, Kayla enjoys spending time with her friends, family, and dogs, along with reading (preferably on the beach).
