A heartwarming initiative is taking place at Thomas Dale High School as students and staff unite to assist a beloved teacher who recently suffered a personal tragedy. Omarh Rajah, a fellow educator in the social studies department, has spearheaded an innovative fundraising event designed to provide financial relief for his colleague whose life was turned upside down earlier this month. The fundraiser involves hairstyling services offered on-site at the school, aiming not only to raise funds but also to foster a spirit of solidarity within the community.
The inspiration behind this effort stems from a deep understanding of hardship and empathy among those involved. The affected teacher endured the loss of his home due to a fire incident along Blossomwood Road. Additionally, he lost all four of his cherished pets during the disaster. Moved by these events, Rajah collaborated with his wife, who works for Great Clips, and together they mobilized professional hairstylists to volunteer their time and skills. This gesture reflects broader values embraced by both individuals and organizations committed to aiding others in times of crisis. Through conversations between Rajah and his spouse—who herself experienced a house fire in her youth—they recognized the profound importance of stepping up when faced with adversity.
This collaborative endeavor underscores the power of collective action and compassion. As Principal Anthony McLaurin expressed, witnessing such overwhelming support from the community reaffirms the strength found in unity. By holding the event from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., it allows members of the public to contribute either through affordable haircuts priced at $10 or via direct donations. Such initiatives highlight how communities thrive when people actively engage in supporting one another, promoting resilience and hope amidst challenges. Beyond monetary assistance, these acts cultivate lasting bonds and inspire further goodwill across society.
The Oshkosh City Council has taken a significant step by passing a resolution aimed at urging the Wisconsin Joint Finance Committee to fully fund the Municipal Services Payment (MSP) Program. This initiative seeks to ensure that cities hosting state-owned properties, such as universities or hospitals, receive complete reimbursement for related service costs and property taxes. According to city officials, achieving 100% funding could save Oshkosh taxpayers approximately $1.7 million in the current year alone. The MSP Program, initiated in 1973, originally provided full reimbursement but now only covers about 37.62% of the costs. With rising property taxes affecting residents significantly, local leaders emphasize the importance of increasing this funding to alleviate financial burdens.
Historically, the MSP Program was established to compensate municipalities for the expenses incurred from housing state properties. While it once offered complete reimbursement, over time, the percentage covered by the state has dwindled considerably. In his recent budget proposal, Governor Tony Evers suggested raising the funding level to 72%, yet the City of Oshkosh argues for a return to 100%. Julie Calmes, Oshkosh's finance director, highlights how even a small increase in MSP funding can lead to tangible savings for individual taxpayers. For example, homeowners with properties valued at $250,000 could see reductions of around $72 in their annual property tax bills if the program were fully funded.
Oshkosh ranks third among Wisconsin municipalities in terms of hosting state properties, trailing only Madison and Milwaukee. These facilities are estimated to be worth nearly $905 million, yet the city receives only partial compensation for associated costs. Currently, Oshkosh incurs expenses totaling over $2.7 million annually for these properties, while the state reimburses less than half of that amount. Consequently, local taxpayers bear the brunt of the remaining costs. At a recent council meeting, members unanimously endorsed a resolution introduced by City Manager Rebecca Grill, calling for full MSP funding to address this imbalance fairly.
Council member DJ Nichols encourages community members to contact both the Wisconsin Joint Finance Committee and their local representatives to advocate for increased MSP funding. He emphasizes that advocacy is not limited to property owners; all residents have a stake in ensuring equitable treatment. By supporting the resolution, the city aims to prompt legislative action toward relieving the disproportionate tax burden placed on local citizens due to state facility operations.
In light of the ongoing financial challenges faced by Oshkosh residents, securing full MSP funding represents a crucial opportunity to ease economic pressures. As the city continues its efforts to engage stakeholders and policymakers, achieving this goal would not only benefit Oshkosh but also set a precedent for equitable fiscal practices across other municipalities hosting state properties throughout Wisconsin.
An annual event in Hampton has been transforming the lives of local students by providing them with scholarships to pursue higher education. The Run for the Stage 5K, now in its ninth year, serves as a platform for community members to contribute toward the educational aspirations of young individuals. Among the beneficiaries is Malakye Brown, a senior at Kecoughtan High School, who expressed delight upon receiving financial assistance that will alleviate his academic and financial burdens. For him, this means focusing more on studies rather than worrying about loans or work.
This initiative not only aids students like Brown but also highlights alternative pathways to career success beyond traditional four-year degrees. Carla Mahn, the Scholarship Coordinator for the event, emphasized the importance of promoting opportunities available through community colleges. According to Mahn, these institutions often retain students locally, thereby strengthening the community's fabric. Since its inception, the race has raised over $130,000, granting 106 scholarships to deserving students. In 2025 alone, ten students received $1,000 each thanks to funds generated from the race, which included an essay component where applicants outlined their plans and goals.
Engaging both participants and sponsors, the Run for the Stage 5K exemplifies how collective efforts can make significant impacts. Joy Charbonneau, co-race director, noted the growth in participation and funds raised since the first event. Community support underscores a shared commitment to nurturing future generations while boosting the local economy. Brown encourages others to seize scholarship opportunities early, stressing the value of timely action. Aspiring runners and supporters can join the cause set for May 10 at Sandy Bottom Nature Park, ensuring registration by May 9.
Through events like the Run for the Stage 5K, communities come together to create brighter futures for their youth. By fostering access to affordable education, such initiatives empower students to achieve their dreams without compromising their families' well-being. This collaborative spirit reflects a broader societal movement towards inclusivity and opportunity in education, proving that small actions can lead to substantial positive change.