Most people agree that the greatest thing about the holiday season is being around friends and loved ones. Ask any child what they cherish most about the holidays and you will hear a different response — “PRESENTS!” Those gifts, however, take up much-needed space in homes already filled with children’s clothing and toys. Don’t worry though. There are plenty of local places to donate toys to, which also helps clear out space for other household items, as evident with my family’s recent Christmas. After my son came home from his third Christmas, I was overwhelmed with all the stuff he had — …

Fundraising nights provide a great opportunity for children and parents to gather and support Waltham. If you are not familiar with them, these are events where a restaurant guarantees a percentage of proceeds from one night, during specific hours, to a local school. These events are not exclusive to our city, but for me, they represent what makes Waltham a great place to live. I learned that lesson when I recently attended two events for my son's school. The second fundraising night was held earlier this month at Papa Gino's on Lexington Street. Soon after I arrived, I spotted a friend of my…