“Instructions for living a life: Pay attention. Be Astonished. Tell about it.”Those wonderful, wise words by the poet Mary Oliver inspire us to find joy in the everydayness of life. To love a sycamore when it sheds strips of bark and reveals its mottled trunk. To delight in seeing a dog on a hot day...

As we know from the recent record-breaking hot days and the smoke from the Canadian wildfires, climate change is happening now. In order to reduce the future effects of climate change, we need to quit burning fossil fuels. One way to do that is to drive an electric vehicle (EV). Now is a good time t...

Redifarms Inspiration A Family EffortThank you for your article about Redifarms in last week’s Leader, but some important facts about the business were omitted. Redifarms is a Woman Owned Business, with Michele Modestino being the majority owner as well as the architect of the Greene Building’s reno...

Welcome back to another exciting school year in Westfield. As a dedicated councilman and a proud parent, I am thrilled to extend my warmest greetings to all of you as your children embark on a journey of learning, growth, and community.Both of my children have had the privilege of attending our scho...

As the new school year begins, it's a time of excitement and anticipation for students, parents, and educators alike. Whetherit'sthestartofanewgrade,anew school, or a new job, there's always a sense of possibility and potential that comes with a fresh start.For students, this is a time to set goals,...

Growing up, I loved going back to school. Of course, I loved the freedom and fun of summer, but there was always something special about reuniting with friends, trying on new sneakers, covering new books and returning to the structure of the classroom.I still feel that excitement now as my daughter ...

Councilwoman Root Wishes Families A Great First Day of School I hope everyone will have, or had a fantastic first day of school! Our kids have returned to college–our oldest to start her senior year at University of Rhode Island and our sophomore back to Michigan State University. It is that time of...

Since being elected in 2020, I’ve been part of a great team with current Mayor Jen Blumenstock and my Democratic colleagues on the council, Marc Lazarow, Russ Graham and Clarissa Nolde. The team also includes our past two Mayors, along with former council members from both parties. My running mates,...

I hope everyone is having an enjoyable summer and able to savor its remaining weeks with good times with friends and family. This summer has been a very busy one for the Garwood Mayor and Council as we continue to make progress on the plans we set out at the start of the year. First, I’m thrilled to...

Many municipalities embrace accessibility as a powerful effort that goes beyond physical structures. Prioritizing inclusive design creates a more welcoming and empowering community, where every resident’s unique abilities are incorporated and accepted. An accessible town weaves together diverse pers...