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Hello Wendi Seelin,
Here's the latest information about what's going on in the Borough of Oakland this month, assembled and produced by the volunteers on the Oakland Communications Commission's Newsletter Committee and the staff of the Borough of Oakland.
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Please note that you may not be seeing the entire newsletter if there is a button at the end of the email saying "Message Clipped".
In order to see the rest, you will need to click that button in order for the rest of the email to load.
To know you've reached the end of the newsletter, look for the Borough seal and below it, the names of everyone serving on the Borough Council.
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IHHS Students Exhibit Upcycled Art Pieces
Wyckoff Environmental Commission Sponsors Student Projects
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By Shayna Pallarino
Ramapo Indian Hills’ Junior Environmental Commissioner project for this year was an Upcycled Art Fair hosted at the Wyckoff Public Library on November 16. Senior Thalia Romm, junior Lea Bogwald, and sophomore Julia Coppo were selected as Junior Commissioners representing the FLOW high schools. Every year the Wyckoff Environmental Commission accepts applications from high school students, and two or three are selected to be that year's Junior Commissioners. The preparation to host the event required attending meetings and events, and eventually completing a project. They chose to organize and host an Upcycled Art Fair as their project, to raise awareness of the need to protect the environment. Young artists who participated include Marianna Adragna, Madison Burgess, Sophie Fox, Jacob Lee, Shayna Pallarino and Seulgi Park, all sophomores representing Oakland’s Indian Hills High School.
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Troop 49 Elevates Three to Eagle Scout Rank
Service project leads to top achievement in Boy Scouting
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By Michelle Rosa Raybeck
Boy Scout Troop 49, based at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Oakland, elevated three young men to the coveted rank of Eagle Scout in January. “Since the inception of the Eagle Scout award in 1911, only approximately 6% of all eligible Scouts in the United States have reached this coveted rank. It is the highest award that can be earned by a member of the Boy Scouts of America,” said Troop 49 Eagle Committee Chair Kathy Miles in an email statement. She added, “Troop 49 Oakland, NJ over the last decade has closer to a 70% achievement rate to the rank of Eagle.”
Matthew Friscia, 18, of Franklin Lakes; Luke Pacenza, 17; and his brother Dylan Pacenza, 15, both of Ramsey, recently completed the stringent requirements and were recognized with a prestigious Court of Honor ceremony.
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Dear Oakland Resident,
As the days grow longer and winter’s chill recedes, we eagerly await the first day of Spring on March 20th—a season of renewal, community spirit, and new beginnings!
Spring Into Action: Sports Registration Now Open
With spring in the air, it’s time for our youth to get active! Late registration for softball and baseball is currently open. Please note, the last day to register your children is March 10th; registrations will not be accepted after that date. Don’t miss this chance for your kids to hit the field!
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PATRIOT'S WAY BRIDGE UPDATE | |
Span 3 – View of completed deck pans – end wall forms. | |
Hometown Hero Banner Program | |
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The Borough of Oakland is accepting applications for the Hometown Hero Banner Program, which will honor your Oakland Veteran with a 30” X 60” banner displayed along Ramapo Valley Road from Armed Forces Day through Veterans Day for a minimum of 3 years. If the banner needs replacement in the first 3 years, the Borough will replace it at no cost to the applicant.
We recognize that financial hardship can be challenging, but every hero deserves to be celebrated. If you or someone you know would like to participate in the Hometown Heroes Banner Program and require financial assistance, we encourage you to submit a Hometown Heroes application and check the fee waiver box. Once your application is received, we will connect you with a sponsor for your banner.
We look forward to helping you honor your hero.
DEADLINE TO APPLY: MARCH 14, 2025
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Your Monthly Garbage & Recycling Cheat Sheet | | |
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- Electronics
- March 5 & 19
- Paper/Cardboard
- March 5 & 19
- Commingled
- March 12 & 26
- Household Appliances/Metal
- March 13
- Yard Waste Pick Up
- North Side: Pick Up Every Monday - Begins April 7, 2025
- South Side: Pick Up Every Tuesday - Begins April 8, 2025
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Did you know that there's an app for your recycling?
The Recycle Coach app lets you know when your recycling day is, tells you what types of materials are accepted at the curb, and has tips for responsible recycling!
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PET LICENSING WAS DUE ON
FEBRUARY 18, 2025!
Late registrations are now subject to a $5.00 late fee.
Registrations will be accepted in-person at the Municipal Clerk's office
located at 1 Municipal Plaza, Oakland, NJ 07436.
UNLICENSED PETS ARE SUBJECT TO POTENTIAL VIOLATIONS AND FINES.
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March 2025 Meeting Schedule | |
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March 3, 2025
Communications 7:00 PM
Shade Tree 7:30 PM
March 4, 2025
Environmental Commission 7:00 PM
March 5, 2025
Access For All 7:00 PM
March 10, 2025
Public Events 7:00 PM
Board of Adjustment 7:00 PM
Flood Commission 7:30 PM
March 11, 2025
Council Meeting 7:00 PM
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March 12, 2025
Green Team 7:00 PM
March 13, 2025
Library Board 7:00 PM
Planning Board 7:00 PM
March 17, 2025
Arts Committee 7:00 PM
March 24, 2025
Board of Health 6:30 PM
March 25, 2025
Council Meeting 7:00 PM
March 31, 2025
Recreation 8:00 PM
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Oakland Seniors Meetings, Trips & Activities | |
Department of Public Works | |
First Responders' Flash Briefing | |
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The Oakland Police Department would like to remind everyone to celebrate responsibly during this St. Patrick's Day. To help ensure the safety of our community, we will be conducting roving DUI patrols throughout town.
If you plan to drink, please make arrangements for a sober ride home. Whether it's a designated driver, rideshare, or public transportation, there's no excuse for getting behind the wheel impaired.
Driving under the influence (DUI) inhibits your ability to drive safely. Alcoholic beverages, controlled substances, prescriptions, and/or over-the-counter medications can cause impairment. Driving impaired puts you and everyone else on the road in danger. Let's work together to keep our roads safe.
Enjoy the holiday, and make smart choices. Your safety is our priority!
Stay safe,
Oakland Police Department
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911 for Emergencies | 201-337-5691 Non-Emergency
www.oaklandfd.org
295 Ramapo Valley Road, Oakland, NJ 07436
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911 for Emergencies | 201-337-7385 Non-Emergency
www.oaklandfas.org
285 Ramapo Valley Road, Oakland, NJ 07436
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🚑 If you are interested in volunteering and becoming an EMT, please stop by one evening at 7:30 PM on the 1st Monday of every month to learn more. | |
Oakland Public Library Children's Programs | |
News & Announcements from
Boards, Committees & Commissions
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The Access for All Committee was established to provide advice to the Mayor and Council on the concerns of disabled persons, barrier-free facilities, and compliance with the requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act.
For more information, email: accessforall@oakland-nj.org
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Arts in Oakland Committee | | |
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ARTS IN OAKLAND
MONTHLY MEETING
BE PART OF SOMETHING AMAZING IN OAKLAND!
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The Arts in Oakland committee has exploded in Oakland with vibrant creativity, awesome musical events and an amazing new Outdoor Market! The townwide contest winning mural installation, is currently in progress! (We can't wait to see it!!) We are looking for enthusiastic new volunteers! If you love the arts ( note: You don't have to be artistic!) and want to dive into awesome events and projects like music gigs at the new Arts Pavilion, the Digital Arts Zine, Outdoor Markets, Open Mic Nights, Holiday Tree Decorating, Art Exhibition & Sale, and so much more, come join the fun!
If you are an organizer in town, and have an event to collaborate with the Arts in Oakland team- reach out!
Volunteers are needed for our events and Community service credit is offered to students and, its fun!!
Our next meeting is Monday, March 17, at 7 PM at the Senior Center. Don't miss out—join us and be a part of the magic in Oakland's arts scene!
For more information email:
Andrea Levy
Arts in Oakland - chair | email: arts@oakland-nj.org
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INTRO TO IMPROV
🎭 Intro to Improv: Extended by Popular Demand! 🎭
Arts in Oakland is excited to extend the Intro to Improv classes by popular demand!
FREE to Oakland residents 16 and over!
Discover your creativity and unleash your inner performer with our introductory improvisation course and our new Next Level Improv to take you even further along! You'll be amazed at how easily you can dive into the world of improv and experience its transformative power. Join us to unlock your full potential!
🗓️ WHEN: Tuesdays, January 14, (No class 21st) 28, February 4, 11, 18, 25, March 4.
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Intro to Improv: 7:00 - 7:45 PM
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NEW: Next Level Improv: 7:45 - 8:30 PM
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WHERE: The Senior Center, 20 Lawlor Ave, Oakland, NJ
Email for more info and to check out this fun, interactive experience. We're accepting new participants!
For more information, email Arts@Oakland-NJ.org.
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OPEN MIC NIGHT
Join us for a fun evening filled with music by YOU!
Thursday March 27, 7:30 PM
Join us for a fantastic evening of Open Mic at Real Brave! Sing, jam, or enjoy some karaoke fun. The event takes place at 7:30 PM. Come down and be a part of the excitement or just stick around and enjoy the vibe!
Real Brave- 350 Ramapo Valley Road in the Coppertree Mall
Info: Arts@oakland-nj.org
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GET CREATIVE OAKLAND- ENTER YOUR WORKS IN THE "ARTS IN OAKLAND ZINE"
We are thrilled to announce the Winter Edition of the Artist and Writers Showcase, presented in a Digital Zine format. Let your creativity shine this season by submitting your work for our next edition!
What is a “Zine,” you ask?
Zines are self-published collections of original content that cover various topics and formats. Ours focuses on the Arts, and this time, we’re embracing the beauty and inspiration of winter. Oakland residents are invited to submit their original Poetry, Short Fiction, Artwork, and Photography with an In Oakland- winter theme-and we can’t wait to see your contributions!
This project is open to all ages and levels of experience, and selected works will be shared across Oakland’s media outlets.
Submissions for the Winter Zine are due by March 3, 2025.
Please review the flyer for details and submission guidelines.
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SPRING VERSE & VISUAL ART EXHIBIT AND SALE
April 1 – May 18, 2025
Oakland Public Library, 2 Municipal Plaza, Oakland, NJ
Celebrate Poetry Month with the Spring Verse & Visual Art Exhibit and Sale! Local artists are invited to pair original artwork with any poem, song lyric, or literary excerpt, creating expressive interpretations of the author’s narrative, theme, or creative energy.
Entry Details:
• Online submission by March 8, 2025
• Limit one entry per artist
• 32 works will be selected; notifications by March 14, 2025
• Entry form: https://forms.gle/iGNLY1ocZZ2kq1dp8
Artists & Friends Poetry Reading & Reception:
Join us on April 3rd, 5:00–7:00 PM, for a special evening of poetry and celebration.
Presented by the Borough of Oakland, Arts in Oakland Committee and the Oakland Public Library. Don’t miss this inspiring fusion of words and visuals!
For more information:
Andrea Levy | Arts in Oakland
Arts@oakland-nj.org
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Communications Commission | |
There's A Place for You With Us! | |
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The Communications Commission is seeking new volunteers for its various subcommittees. Are you interested in television production? Do you have writing skills? Are you computer savvy? Are you interested in social media? Then any one of the Subcommittees would be a great fit for you.
Volunteer for a position today and have an impact on your community. For more information, email occ@oakland-nj.org.
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All meetings will be held in the Municipal Court/Council Chambers, 10 Lawlor Drive, Oakland, N.J. 07436. All Regular Meetings, which are open to the public, will commence at 7:00 p.m. The schedule is as follows:
March 3, 2025
May 5, 2025
July 7, 2025
September 10, 2025
November 6, 2025
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Channel 77 on Altice's Optimum & Channel 2145 on Verizon's Fios
STREAMING SOON TO MOST MAJOR STREAMING PLATFORMS!
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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
Do you have a great idea for a news article?
Do you love to write or edit?
Do you want to learn more about Oakland and the people of Oakland?
If you have answered YES to any of these questions, the Newsletter Committee could use you!
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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
Do you have a great idea for a news article?
Do you love to write or edit?
Do you want to learn more about Oakland and the people of Oakland?
If you have answered YES to any of these questions, the Newsletter Committee could use you!
To learn more email: occ@oakland-nj.org
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Welcome, Website & Social Media Committee | | |
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The Oakland Environmental Commission is seeking a volunteer to fill a vacancy on the Commission. Join us in our duty to advise on all environmental matters including pollution control, solid waste, open space, developmental impact, and habitat creation for endangered species and those of special concern and protection of flora and fauna in Oakland.
If you are interested in learning more, please contact boroclerk@oakland-nj.org.
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We would like to inform you that the dates for the recent Public Events Committee meetings were printed incorrectly in February's newsletter. We sincerely apologize for any confusion this may have caused.
Please find below the corrected meeting schedule for your reference:
All meetings will be held in the Oakland Senior Center, 20 Lawlor Drive, Oakland, N.J. 07436. All Regular Meetings, which are open to the public, will commence at 7:00 p.m. The schedule is as follows:
March 10, 2025 Regular Meeting
April 14, 2025 Regular Meeting
May 12, 2025 Regular Meeting
June 9, 2025 Regular Meeting
June 23, 2025 Regular Meeting
September 8, 2025 Regular Meeting
October 14, 2025 Regular Meeting
November 10, 2025 Regular Meeting
December 8, 2025 Regular Meeting
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Schedule of Community Events
- Easter Egg Hunt → April 12, 2025
- Memorial Day Parade → May 25, 2025
- Borough Carnival → June 18-21, 202
- Trick or Trunk → October 25, 2025
- Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting → December 7, 2025
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Current Open Signups & Opportunities | |
Jill Schwertfeger Memorial Dog Park | |
Proof of dog being licensed in your home municipality is required to complete your registration and receive a code for the gate. Please email a copy of your current dog license to the Recreation Department at recsec@oakland-nj.org, or you can mail a copy to the Borough of Oakland, 1 Municipal Plaza, Oakland, NJ 07436, Attn: Oakland Dog Park. | |
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Dog Park Banner Advertising
Oakland is now offering your business more exposure than ever! The Oakland Dog Park, located in Great Oak Park, is now accepting banner purchases, until all space is sold out.
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Join and Volunteer With Us! | | |
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The Oakland Shade Tree Commission is seeking 2 volunteers to fill a vacancies on the Commission.
If you have a passion for trees and are looking to give back to the community this committee could be for you!
The meetings are the first Monday of the month 7:30 PM at the Oakland Senior Center 20 Lawlor Drive Oakland NJ 07436.
If you are interested in learning more, please contact shadetree@oakland-nj.org.
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Arbor Day: Plant a Tree Now for the Future!
This year the Oakland Shade Tree Commission is giving you multiple opportunities to plant a tree!
1. Rolling sign up for a large tree (10 ft) to be planted along your curb.
2. Limited: sign up before April 10 for a small tree (5 ft) for you to plant anywhere on your property. Pick up on April 27 in front of the Oakland Public Library
3. There is no sign up needed for the sapling (1 ft) giveaway on Sunday April 27 in front of the Oakland Public Library from 10am – 2pm.
Sign up at shadetree@oakland-nj.org. Please include name, address and phone number.
Members needed! The Shade Tree Commission has two openings. If interested please email shadetree@oakland-nj.org
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Sustainable Oakland Green Team | |
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Join us on Sunday March 2nd to start the month off with an invigorating walk through Oakland's beautiful trails. *Weather permitting, register to be informed of any changes.
When: Sunday, March 2nd 11am in the lower parking lot on Skyline Drive.
Get ready to walk the Trails of Oakland and nearby well marked trails, featuring flowing streams, small waterfalls, some manageable rocky terrain along with the beautiful winter flora and fauna of the season!
We recommend wearing appropriate hiking shoes -there could be ice and waterproof is always a plus, and layers, hat, sunglasses, bug spray, water and snack.
*The specific trail will be selected the week of the event and shared to registrants via email.
Please text Andrea 201-739-8278 no later than Friday prior to the hike to coordinate carpool. This event is weather permitting.
*Registration is required https://bit.ly/3V0risg
Happy Trails!!
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Community Solar Program
The Sustainable Oakland Green Team is excited to share information about New Jersey's newest clean energy program, Community Solar.
Residents who have previously been unable to go solar, due to a variety of factors including cost, unsuitable roof, or lack of roof control, can now access this renewable energy.
Community solar projects enable greater access to solar energy to everyone and will also enable low- & moderate- income households and the environmental justice community greater access to clean energy and savings on their electricity bills.
Community solar encourages local clean energy development that is tied to the communities without compromising the preservation of open space or protected lands in New Jersey.
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BACKYARD COMPOST BINS & RAIN BARRELS
Backyard composter bins are available for purchase at the Oakland Department of Public Workers, 63 Oak Street, Oakland, NJ 07436 during normal business hours Monday - Friday, 8:30 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.
The composter is available at a discounted price to Oakland residents at $60.00.
Rain barrels are also available for purchase to town residents at a discounted price of $75.00.
If you have any questions, email recycle@oakland-nj.org or call (201) 337-8104.
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COMMISSION SECRETARY FOR
SUSTAINABLE OAKLAND GREEN TEAM - P/T
This P/T position supports the activities of the Oakland Green Team. Job responsibilities include advertising meetings according to law, preparing agendas and meeting materials, attending monthly meetings, creating and distributing meeting minutes, assisting with vendor quotes and creating purchase requisitions as needed, and helping with event and program execution.
The successful applicant will be organized and knowledgeable in MS Office. A positive attitude, ability to work cooperatively and meet deadlines are essential. Attendance at monthly night meetings of the Commission is required. The Green Team meets the 4th Thursday of every month.
Compensation is $1,200 annually. Please submit an application or resume to Kathy Gurney at adminsec@oakland-nj.org. EOE
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Community News & Announcements | |
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Fliers/information are listed in order of when the event is occurring from soonest to latest from the first of month. Events or announcements with no set date are at the bottom of this section.
If you would like to submit your organization's announcement or event for inclusion in the newsletter, click here and follow the instructions listed.
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Bergen County News & Announcements | |
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Are you interested in submitting content to the newsletter?
Want to join the Newsletter Committee?
Learn more about the Oakland Communications Commission?
Provide feedback on how we're doing and what you want to ?
Click below, learn more, and learn how you can get involved!
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Oakland Governing Body
Mayor Eric Kulmala
Council Members
Council President, John McCann
Pat Pignatelli, Carol Ann Rose, Steven Saliani, Kevin Slasinski, Russell Talamini
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Oakland Communications Commission
Chairman Ryan Schwertfeger
Vice Chairman Mark Albala
Jim Barry, Amy Eilert, Andrea Levy, Kerri Sirinides, William Sisti
Michelle Raybeck (Alt. 1),Benjamin Good(Alt. 2)
Junior Member: Eric Darcy
Commission Secretary: Gina S. Kim
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(c) 2025 Oakland Communications Commission
1 Municipal Plaza, Oakland, NJ 07436 | (201) 337-8111
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