localmatters / 11 ing for local residents to openly share perspectives on pressing race-related issues and then to collectively explore local solutions. Each topic is selected based on recent local, regional or na- tional occurrences that have impact ed the goal to be an inclusive community. For details, call 973-761-6116 or visit twotowns.org. More than 600 runners and walkers of all ages are expected to participate in the 15th Annual Achieve Founda- tion’s Newstead 5K Race on Septem- ber 16. The festivities will begin with a lively group warmup led by presenting sponsor, D&I Fitness, at 8:45 a.m. at the South Mountain School Annex, 112 Glenview Road, South Orange. After the starting bell, participants will navigate the rolling 5K course in the Newstead neighborhood. This regional race raises more than $20,000 annually to support the Achieve Foundation’s educational programs that enrich the learning experience of students in all South Orange and Maplewood district schools, including teachers’ grants, vol- unteer tutors, STEAM (science, tech- nology, engineering, arts and math) education and more. For details call 973-378-2055 or visit achievefounda- tion.org. Tickets are on sale for the Third Annual Robert J. Miller Oysterfest, in partnership with the Township of Maplewood, on September 16 from 1 - 9 p.m. at The Woodland, 60 Wood- land Road, Maplewood. Oysterfest was started to honor Bob Miller, a beloved Maplewood resident who was taken too soon by melanoma. This event raises funds for cancer research and awareness and provides financial support to families facing crises. The 2017 Oysterfest will be a fun-filled day with bands, both The Snakes and Brian Kirk & the Jirks, and oys- ters, shrimp, pizza, food and bever- age trucks, whiskey tastings in the Snug and fun activities. Dermatolo- gists will be on site for complimentary melanoma screenings from 1 – 5 p.m. Sponsors to date include St. James’s Gate, Keller Williams Midtown Di- rect, Guinness, Maplewood Lion’s Club, Built by King Willy, The Able The South Orange/Maplewood Com- munity Coalition on Race will host Coffee House Discussions on September 12 at The Woodland in Maplewood. Achieve Foundation’s Newstead 5K Race will celebrate 15 years on September 16. Photo credit: Stephen Feldman Robert J. Miller Oysterfest, will take place at The Woodland in Maplewood on September 16. Helping buyers and sellers in the SOMA community for 10 years MAKING IT HOME RENASPANGLER Newstead 5K September 16th, 2017 Maplewood at the Mill · 973.762.3300 I'm honored to be a sponsor and volunteer at the race for a 2nd year! cell: email: web: 973.876.7913 rena@renaspangler.com renaspangler.com THE PREEMINENT PREPARATORY SCHOOL IN NEW JERSEY FOR PRE-K THROUGH 12TH GRADE JEWISH EDUCATION ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE JEWISH TRADITION COMMUNITY VALUES REGISTER FOR A FALL OPEN HOUSE AT GOLDAOCHACADEMY.ORG OR CALL THE OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS 973-602-3601 continued on p. 41