This new series of gratitude columns will feature unexpected friendships and how illuminating and elevating these connections can be. In celebration of St. Patrick’s Day and the arrival of spring, here is a tale about an Irish forensic specialist and a DNA scientist I met in Dublin.A call came from ...

A collaboration with the Westfield High School Journalism ProgramArt has been one of the most powerful tools used throughout history. It has depicted injustice, war and tragedy. It has stimulated joy, sadness, empathy, among many other emotions. With our constantly developing world and rapidly growi...

As the Westfield Board of Education, we respect and appreciate the community’s engagement in the upcoming April 15 budget vote and bond referendum. These decisions impact every resident, and we want to ensure that voters have accurate information to make an informed decision.Addressing Tax Concerns ...

I read with great weariness the controversy and series of letters to town newspapers about the installation of full-day kindergarten in which authors decry the costs to town residents: too expensive these folks say.My young growing family moved to Westfield in 1983. We were immediately caught up in ...

A collaboration with the Westfield High School Journalism Program

After eight years of service to the Town of Westfield as your Mayor and members of the Town Council, we have each independently decided not to seek a third term. We have achieved our goal of leaving Westfield better than when we started, and we have been aided in all our efforts by the incomparable ...

There is a Westfield School Budget vote on April 15. I am planning to vote yes to support our great schools and great teachers. This year, there are three questions on the ballot. The first one is for next year and the other two are for major capital improvements for our schools as well as for addit...

I want to add some perspective and awareness about the proposed 2025 municipal budget, which the Township Council has scheduled for a public hearing and adoption on April 15.This year’s $34.6-million operating budget reflects our commitment to responsible fiscal management while continuing to invest...

It was disheartening to read recently that, according to a study by WalletHub, New Jersey continues to have the highest property taxes in the country. We ranked last — 51st, including the District of Columbia — when it comes to heaviest property-tax burdens, with Garden State property owners paying ...

A collaboration with the Westfield High School Journalism ProgramWith unlimited styles, pieces and products from around the globe just one click away, consumers can enjoy unparalleled convenience while shopping online. However, this service is met with a significant drawback: high return rates due t...