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Adam J. Weissman of Portola Valley sent us these photos of fireworks at Stanford behind the Dish. The photos were taken Saturday night from his home, where he said he had a great view and we don't disagree.
File photo of fireworks at Stanford University. Courtesy of Adam J. Weissman of Portola Valley.

Woodside Fire warns against illegal fireworks

Residents of Woodside, Portola Valley and unincorporated surrounding areas will face significant fines and criminal penalties for purchasing or setting off fireworks this Fourth of July  weekend. This includes State Fire Marshal-approved “Safe and Sane” fireworks.

The Woodside Fire Protection District, which serves one of the highest wildfire-risk areas in San Mateo County, encourages residents to attend public fireworks shows to celebrate Independence Day. 

To report illegal fireworks, call the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line at 650-363-4911 and select Option 1.

Hassett Ace Hardware celebrates Redwood City store reopening

Hassett Ace Hardware in Redwood City reopened in May following a car crash that sparked a fire in December 2025, and is ready to celebrate its comeback with the community.

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, July 12, the store located at 282 Woodside Plaza will be hosting a community event featuring food, vendor demonstrations, giveaways and live music, including a visit from special guest Marcus in the Morning from noon to 2 p.m.

— Sydney Feldman

Menlo Park Community Watch Group

The Menlo Park Police Department is reintroducing its neighborhood watch program as the Community Watch Group (CWG). The group is made up of local volunteers who encourage residents to work together to promote awareness, communication and neighborhood safety.

CWG volunteers support crime prevention efforts in their area. The MPPD offers training, safety information, liaison assistance and presentations on neighborhood crime prevention, personal and community safety, and crime prevention through environmental design.

Menlo Park residents who are interested in bringing the CWG program to their neighborhood can visit tinyurl.com/communitywatchgroup or email CWG@menlopark.gov.

— Jennifer Yoshikoshi

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Jennifer Yoshikoshi joined The Almanac in 2024 as an education, Woodside and Portola Valley reporter. Jennifer started her journalism career in college radio and podcasting at UC Santa Barbara, where she...

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