Our guest writer, Theresa Stiles, contributed this poignant, spiritual remembrance of backyard kickball and wiffle ball days gone by. Like many of us, Theresa and her husband were happy to raise their children here in Westfield and neighboring towns. But when the kids departed for college and onto n...

A collaboration with the Westfield High School Journalism Program

In the wake of increasing temperatures, drought, and more intense storms, many New Jerseyans are feeling helpless to climate change. The best thing we can do in the wake of despair is to empower ourselves with information and, better yet, take action. The Rutgers Cooperative Extension Environmental ...

I would like to update Garwood residents on upcoming shade tree related activities: The long wait for some Garwood resident to either have a tree stump or dead tree removed from in front of their house, or a new tree planted, will soon be over. The Borough and Shade Tree Board will be letting the co...

The ongoing narrative surrounding One Westfield Place (OWP) has grown frustrating. Critiques about a lack of due diligence misrepresent the facts and undermine trust in our town’s professionals, council, and future.The 2.3 acres being sold as part of this project are being sold for $10–$11 million, ...

A collaboration with the Westfield High School Journalism ProgramFor those who just love the holiday season, there is arguably no better feeling than seeing the look on a loved one’s face when they are surprised with the perfect gift. Whether it’s the coziest holiday sweater or those long-awaited ic...

In this spirit of Thanksgiving, the Garwood Shade TreeAdvisory Board thanks residents and some special individuals who have made the Board’s 2024 actions a success. While our plantings are not yet complete, we have planted over 100 trees so far this year, which has never been done before. Early in t...

A collaboration with the Westfield High School Journalism Program

People display all sorts of messages at public parks in Westfield, New Jersey, including political signage. But officials pounced when Shawn Mullen set up a table with small campaign signs in 2021.Mullen, who was running for Town Council, co-sponsored the park activity. But an incumbent candidate fr...

“Let’s pick wildflowers,” suggested my friend Debbie a few days after I saw her coming back from a walk. Wild purple bergamot and black-eyed Susans drooped from the side pocket of her purse as she scampered off to salvage them with water in a jelly-jar vase. “I’d love to,” I said, and we made a date...