October 2024

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.

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.

This Month's Top Stories

Oakland's Pride Shines Brighter Than Ever

Oakland, NJ – This past June 23rd, Oakland made history as it hosted its largest Pride festival to date. The event, hosted at the Elks Lodge, was a vibrant celebration of diversity, love, and community spirit that brought together residents from all walks of life. 

Read More Here

Correction

The article “Oakland Comes Alive with New Arts Opportunities,” published in the

September 2024 issue of the Newsletter, contained several errors which author Michelle

Rosa Raybeck wishes to rectify:


Read More Here

Mayor's Monthly Message

Dear Oakland Residents,


As summer draws to a close and we welcome the crisp fall weather, I am delighted to share some highlights from recent community events. 


The Council recognized several outstanding youth sports achievements, including the 14U Girls Softball team, Boys 11U champions, and 8U champions. Their dedication and teamwork are a testament to the spirit of our town. 


We recently celebrated Indian Hills' 60th anniversary with a day filled with festivities, including Oakland Recreation Football games, bounce houses, and a thrilling Varsity Football game. The evening concluded with an unforgettable drone show and fireworks. 

Read More Here:

Patriot's Way Bridge Update

Removal of old truss span 2 over river.

Read More Here:
Click to Sign Up

Your Monthly Garbage & Recycling Cheat Sheet

  • Electronics
  • October 2 & 16
  • Paper/Cardboard
  • October 2 & 16
  • Commingled
  • October 9 & 23
  • Household Appliances/Metal
  • October 10
  • Yard Waste Pick Up
  • North Side: Pick Up Every Monday - Ends December 9, 2024
  • South Side: Pick Up Every Tuesday - Ends December 10, 2024

Trash: Mon & Thurs garbage collection on the South side of town. Tues & Fri garbage collection on the North side of town.

Recycle Coach App

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!

Learn More
2024 Borough Calendar (Garbage & Recycling Guide)

From the Borough Clerk

IMPORTANT DATES FOR THE UPCOMING GENERAL ELECTION


10/15/2024 - Last Day to Register to Vote for the November General Election


10/26/2024 - In Person Early Voting Begins! Click here to view early voting locations and times.


10/29/2024 - Last Day for the County Clerk's Office to Receive Vote by Mail Applications in the Mail for the November General Election


11/4/2024 - Last Day to Apply in Person at the County Clerk's Office for a Vote by Mail Ballot for the November General Election by 3 PM


11/5/2024 - GENERAL ELECTION DAY - POLLS OPEN 6 AM - 8 PM

October 2024 Meeting Schedule

October 1, 2024

Zoning Board 7:00 PM

Environmental Commission 7:00 PM


October 2, 2024

Access for All 7:30 PM

Shade Tree Commission 7:30 PM



October 8, 2024 7:00 PM

Council Meeting


October 10, 2024 7:00 PM

Planning Board


October 14, 2024 7:30 PM

Flood Commission

October 15, 2024

Board of Health 6:30 PM

Public Events 7:30 PM


October 21, 2024 7:00 PM

Arts Committee


October 22, 2024 7:00 PM

Council Meeting


October 24, 2024 7:00 PM

Green Team


October 28, 2024 7:30 PM

Recreation Committee

Oakland Seniors Meetings, Trips & Activities

Access our Calendar and Senior Center Newsletter Here

The Oakland Senior Center presents Historical Podcast, Listening & Discussion Series.

Tuesdays from 7/2 - 10/8 at 1:00 PM

No program 7/23, 8/27, 9/24


Join us each week as we follow along with a podcast series following a topic in history. Each session will begin with listening to a podcast episode, followed by a group led discussion.


Our first series will follow along with Sharon McMahon's Here's Where It Gets Interesting "Secrets of the Civil War."


For more information or to register:

(201) 405-7731

seniors@oakland-nj.org

www.myactivecenter.com

Department of Public Works

First Responders' Flash Briefing

Police Department

911 for Emergencies | 201-337-6171 Non-Emergency

www.oakland-nj.org/police-department

295 Ramapo Valley Road, Oakland, NJ 07436

Simple Steps for an Extra Safe Halloween

 

Kids love the magic of Halloween, but costume and traffic safety are essential for trick-or-treaters. These tips can help make a safe and happy holiday for everyone.

 

Costume Safety


To help ensure adults and children have a safe holiday, fda.gov has compiled a list of Halloween safety tips. Before Halloween arrives, be sure to choose a costume that won't cause safety hazards.


● All costumes, wigs and accessories should be fire-resistant

● If children are allowed out after dark, fasten reflective tape to their costumes and bags, or give them glow sticks

● Opt for nontoxic Halloween makeup over masks, which can obscure vision; always test makeup in a small area first to see if any irritation develops

● Remove all makeup before children go to bed to prevent skin and eye irritation

Read More Here:

Fire Department

911 for Emergencies | 201-337-5691 Non-Emergency

www.oaklandfd.org

295 Ramapo Valley Road, Oakland, NJ 07436

First Aid Squad

911 for Emergencies | 201-337-7385 Non-Emergency

www.oaklandfas.org

285 Ramapo Valley Road, Oakland, NJ 07436

🚑 If you are interested in volunteering and becoming an EMT, please stop by one evening on the 1st Monday of every month to learn more.

Oakland Public Library

201-337-3742

www.oaklandnjlibrary.org

2 Municipal Plaza, Oakland, NJ 07436

Learn More About the Oakland Public Library

News & Announcements from

Boards, Committees & Commissions

Access for All Committee

Learn More About Access for All

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

Arts in Oakland Committee

Learn More about Arts in Oakland

Volunteer with Us!


ARTS IN OAKLAND

MONTHLY MEETING


BE PART OF SOMETHING AMAZING IN OAKLAND!

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, October 21st 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 

arts@oakland-nj.org

JURIED ART EXHIBITION & SALE -

OCTOBER 17 TO NOVEMBER 16, 2024

 

Paintings, Pastels, Watercolors, Drawings, Art-Prints, Photography, Fabric Art, Sculpture for a captivating juried art exhibition and sale at the Oakland Public Library from October 17th to November 16th, 2024.

 

Don't miss this chance to see local talent from our community and beyond.  

Join us the last Thursday of the month for a fun evening!


Join us for a fantastic evening of open mic at Real Brave! Sing, jam, or enjoy some karaoke fun. The event takes place on the last Thursday of every month at 7:30 PM. Come down and be a part of the excitement!



350 Ramapo Valley Road in the Coppertree Mall 

By popular demand Arts in Oakland is excited to extend the Intro to Improv classes! FREE to Oakland residents 16 and over!


Discover your creativity and unleash your inner performer with our introductory course in IMPROVISATION! You'll be amazed at how effortlessly you can dive into the world of improv and witness its transformative impact on you. Join us and unlock your full potential today!

 

WHEN: TUESDAYS @ 7 PM

WHERE: The Senior Center - 20 Lawlor Ave, Oakland, NJ

Please drop by to check out this fun, interactive offering. Accepting new participants!


For more information, email Arts@Oakland-NJ.org

Oakland Outdoor Market -

🎉 **The Oakland Outdoor Market: A Community Favorite!** 🎉

 

The Oakland Outdoor Market is off to an exciting start and is quickly becoming a community favorite! Join us every Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM until November 16th, right next to the Oakland Public Library, for a day of shopping, fun, and local charm.

 

🌟 **What to Expect:**

- A lively mix of handmade, one-of-a-kind items—from arts and crafts to delicious baked goods, cold drinks, and farm-fresh produce.

- Past highlights include a cheerful clown dazzling the crowd with face painting and balloon creations, plus talented artisans displaying felt stitching, crochet, watercolor art, superhero decoupage, pet bandanas, laser-cut wood designs, sparkly suncatchers, and much more!

 

🎶 **New Every Week:** 

Every Saturday brings something fresh, so there’s always a new treasure waiting to be found! The best part? Your shopping supports Arts in Oakland, making this event both fun and impactful for the community.

 

🎸 **Calling All Musicians:** 

We’re looking for local musicians to bring even more energy to this vibrant gathering!🎶

 

🛍 **Vendors Welcome:** 

Calling all crafters, artisans, bakers, and makers—there’s still time to join the fun! Showcase your unique creations and be part of this extraordinary event.

 

**Register now!** 

Click here to register: https://bit.ly/4cmY6CD

 

💼 Volunteer opportunities and community service credit are available for Oakland residents and students. Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C44A8AA2DA7F9C52-50327350-outdoor

 

For more info, contact: Arts@Oakland-nj.org 

 

Don’t miss out—come for the creativity, stay for the fun! 🎨🥳

ARTS IN OAKLAND "SUMMER & BEYOND" ZINE

 

We are excited to extend the Summer vibes with your creativity featured in our second edition of the Artist and Writers Showcase presented in a Digital Zine format. 

 

What is a "Zine" you ask? Zines are self-published collections of original content that cover various topics and formats. Ours is the Arts - Oakland residents were asked to submit their original Spring themed Poetry, Short Fiction, Artwork & Photography and, WE CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOURS! !!  

 

This project is open to all ages and levels of experience and Artist and Writer’s works will be shared on Oakland’s media outlets.

 

**Entries for The Summer & Beyond Zine deadline is 11/1/24. Please review the flyer for details. 

Click to View the Spring Zine

Please help support Arts in Oakland!! Donate Today!

For More Information, Click Here

Board of Health

Learn More about the Board of Health

Communications Commission

Learn More about the Communications Commission

There's A Place for You With Us!

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.

Email Us

Television Committee

Watch and Subscribe To Us On YouTube!
Email the Television Committee

Oakland TV Schedule for This Month

Channel 77 on Altice's Optimum & Channel 2145 on Verizon's Fios

Bulletin Board Committee

Contact the Bulletin Board Committee

Newsletter Committee

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!

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

Welcome, Website & Social Media Committee

Environmental Commission

Learn More About the Environmental Commission

Volunteers Needed

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.

Public Events Committee

Learn More About the Public Events Committee

Upcoming Events

  • Halloween Parade/Trick or Trunk → 10/26/24 at 10:00 am
  • Tree and Menorah Lighting/Holiday Lights Parade → Dec 8, 2024 at 5pm
  • Holiday Lights Contest → December 16-17

Recreation Commission

Learn More About the Recreation Commission

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.

Learn More About the Dog Park

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.

Click Here for Application

Shade Tree Commission

Learn More About the Shade Tree Commission

Join and Volunteer With Us!

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.

Sustainable Oakland Green Team

Learn More About Sustainable Oakland Green Team

Join the Green Team!

Join us for the First Sunday of the Month Hike, a walk through Oakland's beautiful trails.


Get ready to walk the Ramapo Lake Castle trail, considered a moderate 4-5 mile well marked trail, featuring flowing streams, small waterfalls, some manageable rocky terrain and the beautiful Ramapo Lake along with the budding flora and fauna and changing colors of the season!


We recommend wearing appropriate hiking shoes (waterproof always a plus!), layers, hat, sunglasses, bug spray, water and snack.


**Please note that finding parking can be an issue and it is suggested that you get there early to find a spot. In advance, arrangements can be made to carpool in town.

Please text Andrea 201-739-8278 no later than Friday prior to the hike to coordinate carpool. This event is weather permitting. 


*Please register on Eventbrite to be notified of any changes or cancellations.



Happy Trails!!

Click to Register

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.

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.

Job Postings

COMMISSION SECRETARY FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION

P/T – OAKLAND (Bergen County)

This P/T position provides basic administrative support to the Environmental Commission.


Job responsibilities include advertising meetings according to law, preparing agendas and meeting materials, attending monthly meetings, carrying out the direction of the Commission as required, preparing meeting minutes for approval by the Commission membership, and receiving and distributing correspondence, including plan review documents, in a timely manner.


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.


Compensation is $1,200 annually. Please submit an application or resume to Kathy Gurney at adminsec@oakland-nj.org. EOE

COMMISSION SECRETARY FOR

SUSTAINABLE OAKLAND GREEN TEAM

P/T – OAKLAND (Bergen County)


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

Community News & Announcements

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.

Garden Club of Oakland

Bergen County News & Announcements

Pantophobia's Haunted Attraction "The Wrath of Cyrus Grain"

Haunted Attractions 2024

 Darlington Lake County Park

 600 Darlington Ave, Mahwah, NJ 07430

 September 27, 2024  - November 1, 2024

For More Information About Pantophobia, Click Here:

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Oakland Governing Body

Mayor Eric Kulmala


Council Members

Council President Steven Saliani

Jodi Goffredo, John McCann, Pat Pignatelli, Kevin Slasinski, Russell Talamini

Oakland Communications Commission

Chairman Ryan Schwertfeger

Vice Chairman Jim Barry

Mark Albala, Amy Eilert, Andrea Levy, Kerri Sirinides, William Sisti

Patricia Carrera (Alt. 1), Steve Panosian (Alt. 2)

Junior Member: Benjamin Good

Commission Secretary: Gina S. Kim

(c) 2024 Oakland Communications Commission

1 Municipal Plaza, Oakland, NJ 07436 | (201) 337-8111

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