May 2021
Hello!

Here's the latest information about things going on in the Borough of Oakland this month, assembled and produced in a collaboration between the volunteers on the Oakland Communications Commission's Newsletter Committee and the Assistant to the Borough Administrator.
The Borough of Oakland and Sustainable Oakland Green Team held a successful 'Ribbon Cutting Ceremony' for the new Oakland Community Garden, located behind the Borough Hall. Attendees included Mayor Linda H. Schwager, Council President and Green Team Liaison Eric Kulmala, Councilman Pat Pignatelli, Green Team Chair Alison Fleeson, Past Chair Carol Peterson, Past Chair Chopper Russo, along with community gardeners and residents. The Sustainable Oakland Green Team would like to thank the Public Events Committee for providing refreshments, and the Oakland Television Committee for broadcasting the ceremony live. The ceremony may be viewed online here.
Top Stories
Barbie Sue Allegretta: Oakland's Smiling 'Horse Lady'
Barbie Sue Allegretta was standing outside the Oakland Post Office one day, and smiling knowingly as passers-by did double-takes, with some taking out their phones to snap a photo.

It isn’t just her colorful, gypsie-style flowing skirt, matching top and head scarf that make people pause when they see Barbie Sue around town—it’s the horse (with its own fashion staples) she always has with her.

Smiles are exactly what Barbie Sue is going for. Like the mythical Celtic fairy, Barbie Sue is a lady who spreads good will.
Barbie Sue Allegretta
Watch the Video Here
“It’s fun to see people’s reactions,” she says.

“I’ve loved horses all my life for their beauty and for what’s on the inside of them. They can be gentle and mystical. They can improve your health, mentally and physically, and they spread smiles.”

Barbie Sue was first enchanted by horses at the age of five at a pony farm in Wyckoff. The bond was so strong, it continues to this day, 49 years later. As a child she dreamed about these special horses, she read stories about them, and when she had the chance, she learned to ride them.
Photo by Sheri Lenc
Oakland Braves Roller Hockey: North Jersey Junior Division Champions
On Saturday, March 27, 2021, the Oakland Braves Roller Hockey team won the North Jersey Youth Roller Hockey Association (NJYRHA) Championship in the Junior Division. Oakland beat Hawthorne in a best of 3 series. Hawthorne, playing at home, won Game 1 on Thursday night with a score of 5-3.  
Oakland responded with back-to-back wins at home on Friday night (6-1) and in Hawthorne on Saturday afternoon (7-2). This is the first time an Oakland Roller Hockey team has won the championship which dates to the early 1990's.

The NJYRHA season runs from December to March and consists of teams from Carlstadt, Dumont, Hawthorne, Little Ferry, Lyndhurst, Oakland, Ridgewood, Westwood and Wyckoff.  There are 4 levels of play which include Learn to Skate (LTS) for 3rd grade and younger, Midget Division (4th-6th grade), Junior Division (7th-9th grade) and Senior Division (10th-12th grade). If you want more information, you can find the NJYRHA on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NJYRHA or reach out to the Recreation Department in one of the towns mentioned above.  
 
Pictured from left to right: Coach Brian Fassett, Coach Dan Lenc, Brody Lenc, Coach Glenn Falsetta, Adam Moskal, Danny Phillips, Jared Silvestri, Brett Matyiku, Zack Fassett, Andrew Chiarello, Ryan Targove, Jake Willis, Anthony Mazzola, Brendan Ross and Will Ryglewicz
Mayor Schwager's Message
In the past I have attempted to organize a committee to help our residents with disabilities. The committee would serve to help enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities so that they can participate, to the fullest extent possible, in every day activities in our community.

I recently met with a volunteer and a participant in Mahwah who described Mahwah's very successful Access for All Program. Both the volunteer and participant described with enthusiasm the exciting social activities available. The ages of the participants range from school age children to adults. Activities such as bowling and holiday parties have provided positive experiences.

This is a very critical time in our history. Many activities for all individuals have been prohibited. Many individuals have been isolated in their homes without social interaction. However, with the warmer weather upon us and with the many people who have been vaccinated, this is a good time to begin the process of reconnecting with each other and helping all those who need our help.

If you are interested in joining me to start up this new adventure in Oakland by creating an Access for All Committee in Oakland, please contact me.
You can call me at (201) 337-5166 or email me anytime at mayorschwager@oakland-nj.org.
Your Monthly Garbage & Recycling Cheat Sheet
Yard Waste: Yard waste is collected every Monday or Tuesday depending on your side of town. If Monday is your garbage collection, Tuesday is your yard waste pickup. If Friday is your garbage collection, Monday is your yard waste pickup. If your yard waste pickup falls on Memorial Day or Labor Day holiday, there is a makeup collection the next day (Tuesday).

Electronics: May 5 & 19

Paper: May 5 & 19

Commingled: May 12 & 26

Household Appliances/Metal: May 13

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

Please note - South side garbage collection is suspended for Monday May 31, 2021 due to the Memorial Day Holiday.
First Responders Flash Briefing
Oakland Police Department
Due to the recent increase of motor vehicle thefts and vehicle burglaries in Bergen County, the Oakland Police Department would like to remind all residents to lock their vehicles while they are parked in their driveways, keep valuables out of sight or bring them into your home, and bring your key fob, remote or keys into you home. Please take these steps to ensure you are not a victim of crime. Other tips to protect yourself, your family and your property are:
  • Install an interactive video doorbell;
  • Install a security system;
  • Install a camera surveillance system;
  • Install motion sensing lights;
  • If you warm up your vehicle during cold winter mornings, make sure your vehicle cannot be shifted into drive and stolen while idling (there have been instances in Bergen County where criminals have driven around in the early morning hours looking to steal a vehicle that is being warmed up), and;
  • Always contact the Oakland Police Department at (201) 337-6171 if you see anything suspicious

Residential burglaries are on the rise in Bergen County as well. Most recently, break-ins were reported in Franklin Lakes and Wyckoff. Criminals are smashing out rear windows and glass doors, kicking in doors, heading directly to master bedrooms and taking cash and jewelry. No burglaries were reported in Oakland; however, following the above tips will protect you and your property against vehicle thefts, vehicle burglaries and home burglaries.
Project Medicine Drop
Project Medicine Drop is an initiative involving the installation of "prescription drug drop boxes" at participating New Jersey police departments.

The Oakland Police Department keeps the locked metal box inside our lobby with the “Project Medicine Drop” logo clearly visible and recognizable.
Project Medicine Drop allows the public to dispose of unused and expired prescription medications safely, securely, and anonymously. The opportunity is available seven days a week, 365 days a year.

If you are disposing of medication we ask that you follow this procedure:

  • We do not accept loose medication and request it be placed in a Ziploc bag.
  • Deposit the sealed Ziploc bag into our drop box

We CANNOT and DO NOT accept:

  • medical waste
  • syringes
Oakland Senior Center
Update from the Oakland Senior Center:

We have a mix of in person, zoom only, and hybrid programs available. This is indicated on the calendar. If anyone would like to attend an in person class, they are asked to call or email the senior center to register in advance. If they would like to be added to our email list to receive the Zoom links for online classes they can reach out to us as well at (201) 405-7731 or seniors@oakland-nj.org.

  • We will be holding a Bingo Day on Thursday, May 20th at 1:00pm. Those interested in attending will need to register in advance with the office by calling 201-405-7731 or in person.
  • Save the date for our first ever Outdoor Socially distanced BBQ on Tuesday, June 22nd. Food and live entertainment will be provided. More information is available on the Senior Center Newsletter. Cost is $12pp. Registration will open June 1.
  • May’s book club is scheduled Thursday 5/27. We will be reading “Rise and Shine, Benedict Stone” by Phaedra Patrick. If anyone is interested in participating, we still have a few books left to borrow. This program is offered as a hybrid both in person and on zoom.

In cooperation with the Oakland Library, we now offer Books 2 Go to homebound Oakland Seniors and members of the community with disabilities. Books 2 Go is a book and media delivery program where we will drop off your rentals right to your home weekly and pick up your returns. Book delivery and returns will be conducted weekly on Tuesdays using the Senior Center Bus. Those interested are asked to call the library at (201) 337-3742 to reserve your books. If you don’t have a specific book in mind, no problem! The fantastic staff at the library will put together book bundles based on your preferences. A flyer is available on the Oakland website.

The Senior Center’s weekly shopping bus has resumed service and is open to Oakland residents 55+. We offer door to door transportation to Shoprite and alternate locations within Oakland by appointment. A flyer with more information is available on the Oakland Website and at the Senior Center to pick up.
Oakland Senior Center Transportation Program Schedule
The Borough of Oakland Senior Center Transportation Program is back up and running. For reservations, please call the Senior Center no later than 4:00 p.m. on the Monday before your requested trip at (201) 405-7731.
Oakland Senior Center 'Books to Go' Program
The Borough of Oakland Senior Center and the Oakland Public Library are offering 'Books to Go' Program, which began earlier this Fall. Contact the Library and see availability of books. Delivery and pick-ups will take place every Tuesday by the Senior Center Van. To reserve books, (201) 337-3742.
Recent News
Dog Park Opening Ceremony Scheduled for May 8th
The Borough of Oakland is hosting the 'Dog Park Opening Ceremony' on Saturday May 8, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. The rain date is May 9, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. Attendees must RSVP online here by May 2, 2021.

In addition, registration is now open for use of the dog park annually. Dogs must be registered in order to access the park. Register online here.
Garbage and Bags Donated by Pet Supplies Plus
New Tree Bench
New Signage
Bergen Newbridge Medical Center Offering Walk-in COVID-19 Vaccinations
Bergen County is announcing that in addition to the Moderna vaccine, they now offer the J&J/Janssen single-shot vaccine at their Vaccination Center at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center. 
Appointments can be made at www.BergenCOVIDVaccine.com.
Walk-Ups available Monday through Friday (10:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.)
Make sure to bring the following:

  • Proof of Bergen County residency, School ID, or Employment
  • Identification (Driver’s license/ID card, social security card, passport or birth certificate)
  • Insurance card, if applicable (Vaccine is available to those both with and without insurance)
State COVID-19 Vaccination Centers Now Open for Walk-ins
Governor Murphy has announced that walk-in vaccinations are open to all New Jerseyans age 16+ at all six vaccine mega-sites during select times.

Learn more: http://covid19.nj.gov/vaccine.
Governor Murphy Announces Loosening of COVID-19 Restrictions
Governor Phil Murphy announced the easing of restrictions for a variety of activities and higher outdoor capacity limits, effective May 10. The changes, which include higher outdoor gathering limits, higher large venue outdoor capacities, higher maximum capacities for private catered events, and more, come as COVID-19 metrics are on the decline and as more New Jerseyans continue to receive COVID-19 vaccines.
“Our robust COVID-19 vaccination program is starting to show results through lower COVID-19 case metrics including a decline in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations,” said Governor Murphy. “This allows us to take steps so that New Jerseyans can have a much more normal summer including allowing for students to celebrate important milestones and events like graduations and proms in-person. We hope to announce further reopening steps in the coming weeks as more and more state residents get vaccinated.”

“The continued cooperation with public health preventive measures and increasing vaccination rates among New Jersey residents allows for this easing of restrictions in the state,” said New Jersey Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli.  “We encourage all residents 16 and older to get a COVID-19 vaccine. It will not only protect you, but it will help us drive down community spread, so we can reopen the state further.”

The changes include:

Outdoor Gatherings:

The outdoor gathering limit will be raised to 500 persons from 200 persons. COVID-19 metrics will continue to be evaluated with the hope of raising the limit again, perhaps considerably, prior to Memorial Day.
Governor Murphy Signs Executive Order Extending Public Health Emergency in New Jersey
Governor Phil Murphy has signed Executive Order No. 235. The Order extends the Public Health Emergency that was declared on March 9, 2020 through Executive Order No. 103, which was previously extended in 2020 on April 7, May 6, June 4, July 2, August 1, August 27, September 25, October 24, November 22, and December 21, and again in 2021 on January 19, February 17, and March 17. Under the Emergency Health Powers Act, a declared public health emergency expires after 30 days unless renewed.
“Our vaccination program is expanding vigorously and quickly, but COVID-19 remains a threat to New Jerseyans,” said Governor Murphy. “As we move to extend vaccine eligibility to all residents of our state, the need for all available resources could not be more important."

Executive Order No. 235 extends all Executive Orders issued under the Governor’s authority under the Emergency Health Powers Act. It also extends all actions taken by any Executive Branch departments and agencies in response to the Public Health Emergency presented by the COVID-19 outbreak.

For the full text of Executive Order No. 235, click here. 
Creative Bergen to Host Inaugural Arts Amble: Oakland Set to Host as a Venue
Founded in 2020, Creative Bergen emerged as a non-profit task force with the goals of providing regular community art events, securing profitable opportunities for artists, makers, and performers, and providing opportunities for individual community members and businesses to engage with and support the arts in Bergen County. A registered 501(c)3, Creative Bergen is making their first major push towards achieving these goals with the Arts Amble.
Inspired by art crawls around the country, the Arts Amble is a three day countywide event, taking place in multiple municipalities throughout Bergen County. Arts Amble will provide the opportunity for artists, makers, and performers to showcase their talent and generate income. Our community will benefit from the Arts Amble through increased tourism, improved community status, social capital, and new business opportunities. Restaurants supporting the Arts Amble will be featured on www.ArtsAmble.org and recommended as locations to dine at during the event.
Borough of Oakland Hosting Additional Roots for Rivers Planting This Weekend
As part of the Borough’s ‘Roots for Rivers Reforestation’ Grant Project, the Borough will host two additional planting events this weekend at 84 Roosevelt Boulevard, Oakland, N.J. 07436.

  • Saturday May 1, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Roosevelt Riverfront, 84 Roosevelt Boulevard, Oakland, N.J. 07436
  • Sunday May 2, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Roosevelt Riverfront, 84 Roosevelt Boulevard, Oakland, N.J. 07436
Volunteers are still needed to help with this weekend's planting. To register for the tree planting event, visit www.r4rplanting.eventbrite.com. For more information, contact the Sustainable Oakland Green Team at greenteam@oakland-nj.org. 
Sustainable Oakland Green Team Hosts Successful Plant Swap
The Sustainable Oakland Green Team hosted a successful Plant Swap last weekend at the Oakland Public Library. Approximately 30 residents attended and swapped all types of house plants. The Green Team is looking forward to the next event!
Did you know? Plants increase oxygen levels in the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen during photosynthesis.
Researchers found that rooms with plants have less dust and mold than rooms without any foliage. Leaves and other parts of the plants act as natural filters to catch allergens and other airborne particles. 
Bergen County Utilities Authority Announces 2021 Dates for Household Hazardous Waste Collections
The Bergen County Utilities Authority has announced the 2021 collection dates for both household hazardous waste and electronics/tire/shredding recycling events. The dates and times are as follows:

Bergen County Utilities Authority
(back gate only)
Foot of Empire Blvd., Moonachie
Saturday, November 13, 2021 
Bergen County Campgaw Reservation
200 Campgaw Rd., Mahwah
Saturday, May 15, 2021
Saturday, July 10, 2021
Saturday, September 11, 2021

Bergen Community College
400 Paramus Rd., Paramus
Sunday, June 13, 2021
Sunday, October 17, 2021
Oakland Recreation Soccer Registrations Now Open
Oakland Rec Soccer Registration is open for K-12th grade. To register click here. Registration will be open until July 31, 2021. The fee for K-4th grade is $65, and the fee for 5th-12th grade is $80.
Oakland Recreation Announces Summer Softball Camp
Summer Softball Camp Registration is now open. June 28, 2021 – July 2, 2021 from 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.  Rain or Shine (indoor batting cages & machines). Held at Indian Hills High School – Lower Gym and Softball Field.

Popular for 22 years – Lots of learning and fun! Open to All Girls Entering 4th – 9th Grade in September – Beginner to Advance Softball Athletes. This camp is instructional in nature. The goal is to teach the fundamentals of softball through age appropriate activities and to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to play.
Please Register through the following link: https://register.communitypass.net/OaklandBorough
Cost: $125 – checks can be made out to Borough of Oakland or pay online. Mail checks to: One Municipal Plaza, Oakland, NJ 07436 Attn: Recreation. 
Communications Commission
The Oakland Television Committee is always seeking volunteers to assist with TV production and event filming. If interested, contact the Communications Commission at occ@oakland-nj.org.
Communications Commission
The Oakland Communications Commission and Oakland Newsletter Committee is seeking volunteers to help write stories and articles for the Borough Newsletter. Experience in journalism and writing is a plus. Community service hours for high school and college are accepted. To those interested, contact assistadmin@oakland-nj.org.
Sustainable Oakland Green Team Announces Styrofoam Drive for May 16th
The Sustainable Oakland Green Team is hosting a Styrofoam Drive on Sunday May 16, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. The first hour is for Oakland residents only, and then the remaining time is open to all Bergen County residents. This is for EPS styrofoam only, no packing peanuts or food containers. Attendees are asked to remain in your vehicles, and a supervisor will remove the items from your trunk.
Oakland Community Garden: Limited Plots Still Available for 2021 Growing Season
The Borough of Oakland Community Garden still has open spots for the upcoming 2021 growing season.

Residents may either register via Community Pass or submit a paper application and check found here.

Registrants must submit a paper application and rules acknowledgement form, even if paying on Community Pass.
Registration is on a first come, first serve basis. Upon registering, you will then be contacted with your assigned plot number and further information for the upcoming season.

To learn more about the Community Garden click here.
Sustainable Oakland Green Team Seed Bank Open for Residents
The Sustainable Oakland Green Team has launched the new Library Seed Bank, featuring native and heirloom seeds. This program is available at the Oakland Public Library, 2 Municipal Plaza, Oakland, N.J. 07436, and is open to all Oakland Library card holders. 

Any questions, contact the Sustainable Oakland Green Team at greenteam@oakland-nj.org. 
Borough of Oakland Selling Backyard Composters
Backyard Composter Bins are available for purchase at the Oakland Department of Public Works, 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.

Questions, email recycle@oakland-nj.or (201) 337-8104.

Sustainable Oakland Green Team Reminds You To Eliminate Idling
The Sustainable Oakland Green Team would like to remind residents to please not idle their car! It saves gas, it saves the planet, and it makes us healthier.
Buy Fresh, Buy Local Directory
The Sustainable Oakland Green Team has put together a local directory of farmers markets, CSA's, and fresh produce stands. Get your produce on and visit our list!
Oakland Mayor's Wellness Campaign Hosting Blood Drive on May 10th
The Oakland Mayor's Wellness Campaign is hosting a American Red Cross Blood Drive on Monday May 10, 2021 from 2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at the Oakland Senior Center, 20 Lawlor Drive, Oakland, N.J. 07436. Register at www.redcrossblood.org and enter the sponsor keyword 'OaklandMayor'. 
Bergen County 'Get Fit' Hosting Tai Chi Classes
Bergen County is hosting free Tai Chi Classes every Monday from May 10, 2021 to June 21, 2021 from 5:15 p.m. - 6:15 p.m. at Saddle River County Park, Ridgewood Duck Pond Pavilion, 1133 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, N.J. Register at www.bergen2021tc.eventbrite.com.
Bergen County 'Get Fit' Hosting Spring Workout Classes
Bergen County is hosting Free Spring Workout Fitness Classes each Wednesday from May 12, 2021 to June 2, 2021 from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at the J. A. McFaul Environmental Center Pavilion, 150 Crescent Avenue, Wyckoff, N.J. Register at www.bergenworkout2021.eventbrite.com.
Borough of Oakland Selling COVID-19 Face Masks
The Borough of Oakland is selling COVID-19 cloth polyester face masks to the public. Masks are $6 each (exact change or check) and are available in the Borough Clerk's Office, 1 Municipal Plaza, Oakland, N.J. 07436 during normal business hours of 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Masks come in sizes SM/M and L/XL.
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