My name is Violetta Watson, and I am running for the Westfield Board of Education to make a difference in our community. I am a public school parent, a leader in the Westfield special education community, and a technology attorney at Google, with expertise in artificial intelligence (AI). If elected...

A collaboration with the Westfield High School Journalism ProgramSince the Covid-19 pandemic, the shopping industry has undergone drastic transformations. Not only did the pandemic shut down millions of stores, it prevented people from leaving their homes and shopping inperson, forcing them to shop ...

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...

There was a Public Notice in the February 27 edition of The Westfield Leader of Ordinance 2025-05 to update the Green Building Checklist. The Checklist is a questionnaire that encourages green building practices on a voluntary basis. It requires all applicants to the Planning and Zoning Boards, as w...

A collaboration with the Westfield High School Journalism Program

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...

The Big Tree Man and His Mentee: Part IILet’s celebrate unexpected friendships in this time of uneasiness and global unrest. Unexpected friendships can elevate us away from political divisions and into a sphere of mutual regard and affection.Last time, you met Joe and Joli, the tree devotees who ide...

In March, as we continue working through budget season, Garwood Council will continue to ensure that Garwood remains the best value in Union County for its residents. As costs continue to rise, our Finance Committee is looking for ways to maintain our steady low tax impact and is reviewing efficienc...