Allendale Borough Council Launches Local Hometown Hero Program, Honoring Veteran Walter Whitmer

Overview: The Allendale Borough Council meeting on December 18, 2025, was marked by the introduction of a new local initiative called the Hometown Hero program. The program aims to recognize residents and business owners who have shown exceptional commitment to the community. The first honoree of this initiative is Walter Whitmer, a veteran and long-serving biology teacher at Ramapo High School.

Kingston Board of Selectmen Focuses on Cemetery Preservation and Historical Integrity

Overview: The recent meeting of the Kingston Board of Selectmen centered on cemetery preservation efforts and historical integrity, with discussions highlighting the need for substantial funding to restore gravestones and address the deteriorating state of historical sites. The selectmen explored various funding sources, including a potential grant from the Massachusetts Preservation Planning Fund, to support these initiatives.

Maynard School District Celebrates $43,000 Raised at Vegan Santa Telethon Amid Curriculum and Budget Discussions

Overview: In a recent Maynard School Committee meeting, the success of the vegan Santa telethon, which raised over $43,000, was a focal point of discussion. Alongside this achievement, the committee dissected the district’s accountability data and delved into potential changes for the math curriculum. Budget concerns were also addressed, with a focus on preschool funding and fiscal requests for the upcoming year.

Oakland School Board Approves Out-of-State Travel Amid Concerns Over Facility Conditions

Overview: The recent Oakland Unified School Board meeting saw the approval of out-of-state student travel for a high school girls’ basketball tournament in Phoenix, Arizona, despite concerns over procedural adherence and facility conditions. The meeting also included a discussion on the district’s Facilities Master Plan, emphasizing the need for strategic investments and community engagement to address both immediate and long-term facility needs.

Garwood Celebrates New Police Sergeant and Councilman Lazero’s Nine Years of Service

Overview: The Garwood Borough Council meeting was both a celebration and a moment of transition, featuring the swearing-in ceremony of Sergeant Gregory Sanchez and a farewell to Councilman Marc Lazarow, who was honored for his nine years of service. The council also discussed a shared municipal court agreement with Fanwood, which promises efficiency and cost savings for the borough, along with other community-focused initiatives.