Good morning Montclair! We're back again in your inbox, keeping you updated with what's happening in and around town. ☕️️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: A New Theatre Company Brings Holiday Magic — and Opportunity to Rutherford! and 13 more events.
Today's riddle: What do you get when you cross an angry cow with an angry sheep? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. Montclair Saw Big Drop In Violent Crime Last Year, FBI Data Shows (patch.com) — Montclair residents can take note that violent crime in town fell sharply in 2025, dropping more than 40 percent from the previous year and remaining well below state and national rates. FBI data shows Montclair's violent crime numbers have declined dramatically since the 1990s, mirroring a long-term downward trend in New Jersey and across the country.
2. 'Our Little Oasis': Montclair Hawk Watch, in its 70th Season, Provides Sanctuary and Community (montclairlocal.news) — Montclair's historic Hawk Watch is now in its 70th season, welcoming residents to climb the 103 steps off Edgecliff Road for sweeping skyline views and migrating raptors. Local birders describe it as a peaceful "oasis" where community, citizen science, and a surge of younger enthusiasts are transforming this hidden quarry-top lookout into a vibrant hub for nature lovers.
3. Montclair Resident Appointed Chancellor Of Newark Archdiocese (patch.com) — A Montclair resident, Christine James, has been named chancellor of the Archdiocese of Newark, bringing decades of executive experience to a role serving 1.3 million Catholics. Raised in Montclair, she remains deeply involved locally through Lacordaire Academy, the Montclair Art Museum, the Montclair Foundation, and Immaculate Conception Church, while continuing advanced studies in educational leadership.
4. Montclair State University Researchers Among First to Study AI's Impact on Character Development of Middle Schoolers (montclair.edu) — Researchers at Montclair State University's RYTE Institute have landed a $257,505 Templeton Foundation grant to study how AI-rich classrooms shape middle schoolers' character and sense of purpose. Partnering with Alpha School campuses nationwide, the team will track 100 students over time, centering youth voices to understand how technology-heavy learning environments can still nurture agency, curiosity, and contribution.
5. 10 New Jersey Cafés That Are Worth Visiting For The Pastry Case Alone (myfamilytravels.com) — Le French Dad Boulangerie on Church Street in Montclair gets a glowing shout-out in this roundup of New Jersey pastry destinations, praised for its croissants, baguettes, and carefully sourced ingredients. If you have a weakness for French-style breads and pastries, this piece makes a strong case for treating the Montclair shop as your new go-to indulgence spot.
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Ok Montclair! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: An animal that's in a baaaaad mooood! (Thank you Lisa A. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!
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