Westfield Announcements
Announcements for News
We are a full-service salon with highly trained professionals who offer the latest in cutting-edge techniques. Our experts make your visits memorable, whether you require a consultation, hair care service, nail care, waxing or advice in purchasing the right product.
You can find out more about all our services and discounts on our website.
For first time customers only:
Click here for our coupon to receive:
10% Off Hair Straightening
20% off your first 2 visits for any hair or nail service
Headturner Salon:
928 South Avenue Westfield, NJ
Phone: (908) 233-0171
MURDER – IT’S NO LAUGHING MATTER
Cavalleria Rusticana/Pagliacci
Pietro Mascagni, Ruggero Leoncavallo
Feel the passion in this double bill of earthy treachery and tragedy. Verismo tales of jealousy, betrayal and cold blooded murder suggest that all politics are local.
Saturday, Sept 25th at 8.00pm
The Presbyterian Church in Westfield, NJ
Tickets $25-$70
Troupe of Friends and the Westfield Recreation Department will
present William Shakespeare's "The Merry Wives of Westfield
(Windsor)" for their annual Labor Day production at the Gazebo in Mindowaskin Park, adjacent to Town Hall in Westfield, NJ.
Joseph Penczak directs this production, set in Westfield in 1961.
The story follows Sir John Falstaff as he tries to woo two wealthy
Westfield wives. The wives take advantage of the knight's
over-confidence and find unique ways to humiliate him and also keep their husbands' jealousies in check. The farcical, slap-stick humor balances the embarrassing predicaments and keeps everyone in a "merry" mood.
Performances will be held on Friday, September 3rd and Saturday, September 4th at 7:30 p.m., and on Sunday, September 5th at 2:00 p.m.
All performances are free and no tickets are required. We do encourage you to bring a blanket or a chair for the outdoor performances. In the event of rain, the performances will be held in the Community Room located in the Westfield Town Hall located at 425 East Broad Street, Westfield.
For more information, visit
www.troupe-of-friends.com or call (908)301-0228.
By Jamie Lemberg
August 27, 2010 -- Can’t get to the Union Square market in NYC? Don’t fret. Alan Weinberg, a Westield NJ resident, has decided to pursue his passion for locally grown, fresh farmed foods and bring them to us.
The idea behind Alan’s Orchard is simple: They sell locally farmed and certified organic produce, responsibly raised free-range poultry and grass-fed beef, local artisanal cheeses and other dairy products, breads, sauces, jams, frozen yogurt with Jersey fresh toppings, and other locally sourced products. Their products are for people who want high quality, better tasting, local, fresh food and are concerned about the health of our planet. They would like you to think of them as a really great farmer’s market, with more convenient hours and a roof overhead.
Alan features some of the same farmers who sell their fresh food at Union Square. He features Griggstown Quail Farm in Princeton NJ, Valley Shepherd Creamery in Long Valley, NJ, Cherry Grove Farm in Princeton, NJ, Natural By Nature in Lancaster County, PA, Baker's Bounty in Linden, NJ and many others. A complete list of artisans and farmers is available on his website www.alansorchard.com.
Orchard’s Alan, who has lived in Westfield for eight years, said he “always wanted to run [his] own business.” His store will try to recreate a “European Market” or “New York Green Market” atmosphere, according to the owner.
At a recent tasting, my colleagues and I sampled an array of fabulous cheeses, from mild to strong, many from Valley Shepherd Creamery; multigrain baguettes and whole wheat walnut raisin loafs from Baker's Bounty in Linden, NJ; delicious home made blueberry and apple pies as well as a fantastic, savory turkey pot pie from Griggstown Quail Farm in Princeton NJ. These pot pies were the hit of the event, made with the farm’s own fresh vegetables and turkey surrounded by the just the right amount of seasonings and gravy in a buttery, flakey home baked pastry shell. Griggstown Quail Farm also makes these delicious pot pies with chicken and beef.
We sampled as well the fresh, 1% low-fat, all natural frozen yogurt, original flavor, which is made with actual organic yogurt. It was fresh tasting and tart (in the style of Red Mango or Pinkberry) and is sold soft serve with fresh fruit, granola and honey toppings. It is a welcome addition to places offering desserts in Downtown Westfield.
We are so excited that the store has opened so we can buy the pot pies, fresh bread, fresh peaches and pies for our families, or simply to stroll in one evening for some frozen yogurt. You won’t want to miss it!
Alan’s Orchard
102 Quimby Street, Westfield NJ
908.403.3567
Opening August 27, 2010
Summer Hours: Monday - Thursday 8am - 8pm, Friday 8am - 10pm, Saturday 9am - 10pm, Sunday 9am - 4pm.
Come to Lord & Taylor for an exciting school-la-la fashion show! Events are 1pm-5pm, the fashion show is at 3pm on August 21, 2010. Local Westfield kids in grades 1-6 will be modeling. This event event will be held on the first floor. Join us! 609 North Ave. W., 908.233.6600.
(August 20, 2010) – The Westfield Memorial Library is happy to announce that the Library now has six new Netbooks for patrons to use within the Library.
The Netbooks are small laptops that are convenient and lightweight. They can be used anywhere in the Library as they connect wirelessly to the Internet. Patrons can also access all of the Microsoft Office programs and print out their materials on the Library’s printers.
“If you want to sit in a private carrel, in the Internet Lounge, or in any of our comfy chairs throughout the Library, you can do so,” said director Phil Israel. “We want to give our patrons the freedom to work where they are most comfortable.”
The laptops are gifts of the Friends of the Westfield Memorial Library.
In order to borrow a laptop, patrons need to have a library card. They can be checked out at the Reference Desk on the second floor and borrowed for a maximum of two hours.
Founded in 1879, the Westfield Memorial Library strives to provide the Westfield community an environment that promotes a love of reading and ensures free access to ideas and information. For more information call 908.789.4090, visit the library’s website at www.wmlnj.org, sign up for the monthly e-newsletter “Library Loop,” or stop by the library at 550 East Broad Street for a copy of the quarterly newsletter “Take Note.”
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There are many exciting cooking and technique classes scheduled for August at Williams-Sonoma in Westfield, NJ. Classes take place at the Westfield store, 127 Central Ave., at 10am Sundays according to the following schedule.
Sunday, August 15, 10am
The Art of Seasoning
Enhance your favorite dishes with spices, which add distinctive flavor and enticing fragrance. We’ll teach you the fundamentals of spices, including the best way to maintain their freshness and how to combine them to create new and exciting blends. Take your cooking to a whole new level by learning how to correctly season foods with aromatic spices.
Sunday, August 22, 10am
Lessons in Dairy
This class will cover the basics of dairy—from assembling a cheese plate to preparing homemade butter and transforming it into savory and sweet spreads. You’ll learn how to make fresh ricotta, which is delicious slathered on bruschetta and topped with vine-ripened tomatoes. We’ll also show you how a few simple additions can turn whipped cream into a decadent topping.
Sunday, August 29, 10am
Knife Skills and Knife Sharpening
A sharp edge, the correct grip and proper placement of the food are all essential components of good knife skills, as we’ll demonstrate in this class. You’ll learn how to slice, dice and chop and to make advanced cuts, including chiffonade and juilienne. We’ll also offer complimentary knife sharpening; limit one knife per customer, please.
The 14th annual “Sweet Sounds Downtown” Jazz Festival, sponsored by the Downtown Westfield Corporation (DWC), takes place during July and August. Each Tuesday evening, July 6th through August 31st from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm, four jazz performances can be heard outside in downtown Westfield. Rain dates will be the following Wednesday evenings at the same time. Jazz groups will be located on Central Avenue in front of Banana Republic, the lawn in front of the North Avenue Train Station, the plaza at the corner of East Broad and North Avenue, and Elm Street in front of the Baptist Church.
Click here for the performance schedule.
Written by Tom Hester Sr., www.newjerseynewsroom.com
Fourteen New Jersey towns have been accredited as 2010 National Main Street Programs for meeting business district revitalization performance standards set by the National Trust Main Street Center.
The towns are Boonton, Bridgeton, Hammonton, Highland Park, Lawrenceville, Millville, Montclair, Newton, Salem, Somerville, South Orange, Vineland, Westfield and West Orange, the state Department of Community Affairs announced Monday.
"This prestigious national recognition demonstrates the commitment these communities have to strengthening their downtown districts,'' Community Affairs Commissioner Lori Grifa said. "They recognize that revitalizing the traditional cores of their villages, towns and cities helps foster economic development. I commend the local public and private-sector leaders, merchants, and dedicated volunteers for the contributions they've made to their respective communities. Without their hard work, this national accreditation would not be possible."
The DCA's Main Street New Jersey program partnered with the National Trust for Historic Preservation's National Main Street Center to evaluate each of the 26 designated Main Street communities in the state and identify which ones met the 10 performance standards required for national accreditation.
The standards include such criteria as strong support from the public and private sectors; relevant vision and mission statements; a comprehensive Main Street work plan; a historic preservation ethic; an adequate operating budget; and an ongoing training program for staff and volunteers.
"We encourage all of our designated communities to work toward accreditation because in doing so they are building vibrant, sustainable downtown districts," Jef (CQ) Buehler, director of the Main Street New Jersey and Improvement District Programs at the DCA. "Just as important, national accreditation brings visibility to a community, which can result in more visitors and shoppers, as well as increased investment."
Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, Main Street New Jersey provides technical assistance and training in the Main Street Four-Point Approach developed by the National Trust Main Street Center. More than 1,900 communities across the country have adopted the approach, which focuses on organization, design, promotion and economic restructuring, to revitalize their historic or traditional commercial districts.
Since its inception in 1990, Main Street New Jersey has leveraged more than $1 billion in new private investment and another $228 million in public investment.
Each year, the National Trust for Historic Preservation's National Main Street Center offers accreditation to the local Main Street programs that meet the 10 national standards of performance. In 2010, 759 programs in the nation received national accreditation based on their evaluations from 2009.
This story was published by newjerseynewsroom.com and is available online at http://www.newjerseynewsroom.com/economy/nj-towns-earn-national-recognition-for-effort-to-restore-business-districts
Don't miss all the great photos of the Downtown Westfield 5K & Pizza Extravaganza! Find yourself, your friends and family members before, during and after the race. Visit www.downtownwestfield5k.shutterfly.com and also see some wonderful photos by NJ Sports Photo & MotoPhoto available for purchase at www.facebook.com/njmotophoto1?ref=search.
Saturday, September 25th at 8pm
The Presbyterian Church in Westfield, NJ
MURDER - IT'S NO LAUGHING MATTER
Cavalleria Rusticana/ I Pagliacci
Pietro Mascagni, Ruggero Leoncavallo
Feel the passion in this double bill of earthy treachery and tragedy.
Verismo tales of jealousy, betrayal and cold-blooded murder.
Subscription Concert 2
Saturday, October 30th at 8pm
The Presbyterian Church in Westfield, NJ
MONSTER MUSIC
The Phantom of the Opera
Mozart - Symphony No. 40 in G minor
Savor the silver screen's original Phantom experience with Hollywood's first great horror movie. Lon Chaney's 1925 epic, complete with LIVE symphonic soundtrack by Gabriel Thibaudoux, takes the horribly disfigured Phantom through the catacombs beneath the Paris Opera House.
HALLOWEEN COSTUME CONTEST WITH CASH PRIZES
Subscription Concert 3
Sunday, December 4th at 8pm
The Presbyterian Church in Westfield
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Join us for a family festival of traditional carols, holiday songs, sing-a-longs and more to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season.
Subscription Concert 4
Saturday, February 5th at 8pm
Union County PAC, Rahway, NJ
SHALL WE DANCE!
A Ballroom Spectacular with Carolina Jaurena
Stravinsky - The Firebird Suite
Britten - Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings
Stravinsky's white-hot ballet score meets a festive retrospective of seductive ballroom rhythms featuring the fiery feet of Carolina Jaurena and friends.
Subscription Concert 5
Saturday, May 14th at 8pm
The Presbyterian Church in Westfield
TO RUSSIA WITH LOVE
Tchaikovsky - Symphony No. 5 in E minor
A World Premiere
celebrating acclaimed NJ poet BJ Ward
New Year's Eve Concert
Friday, December 31st at 7pm
Westfield High School, Westfield, NJ
THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK
Ring in the New Year with musical theatre classics featuring stars direct from the Broadway stage
A non-subscription concert.
No discounts available.
Tickets $25 - $70 Subscribe and Save! For more information go to
www.westfieldsymphony.org
or call 908 232 9400
Sidewalk Sales days were held on July 15-18, 2010 as Downtown Westfield retailers took their wares out onto the streets for four days only. Shoppers came out for great summer bargains despite the heat as stores offered seasonal merchandise at greatly reduced prices.
Westfield Library offers new Digital Download Center for audiobooks, eBooks, music and video
(July 8, 2010) - The Westfield Memorial Library is pleased to announce that it has a new Digital Download Center for audiobooks, eBooks, music, and movies, available for downloading from the library’s website. Library card holders can check out and download digital media to computers or mobile devices anytime and anywhere by visiting the library’s website.
Card holders can enjoy the titles immediately or transfer them to a variety of devices, including iPod®, Sony® Reader™, and the Barnes & Noble Nook. Some audio titles can also be burned to CD to listen on-the-go. Titles will automatically expire at the end of the lending period, so there are no late fees.
“With an increasing number of people downloading digital content, the library is pleased to be able to offer materials in this form,” said Phil Israel, Library Director. “Our new Digital Download Center is not only free and convenient, it is also an easy one-stop-borrowing center for everything from books to movies. As people become more accustomed to listening and watching on the go, we hope that they will think of the library as one of their main sources for obtaining materials.”
To get started downloading audiobooks, eBooks, music and movies, take out your library card, visit www.wmlnj.org and click on the image of the Digital Download Center.
For more information about other library programs and services, visit the library’s website at www.wmlnj.org and click on the Online Calendar, or call 908.789.4090 X4140.
Founded in 1879, the library strives to provide the Westfield community an environment that promotes a love of reading and ensures free access to ideas and information. For more information, visit the library’s website at www.wmlnj.org, sign up on the website to receive the e-newsletter “Library Loop,” or stop by the library at 550 East Broad Street for a copy of the quarterly newsletter “Take Note.”
By Millicent K. Brody
Thanks to Keller Williams Realty Inc., David Williams of Williams Nursery, and the Downtown Westfield Corporation, the North Avenue Train Station has a new rose garden.
The Westfield office of Keller Williams Realty celebrated National Red Day, (Renew, Energize, and Donate) by funding and planting 50 Double Knock-Out Red Roses bushes.
“We chose plant materials that could easily be maintained and sustained for many years to come,” adds David Williams who also provided plantings for Keller Williams to plant in downtown Summit . “Our goal is for the roses to bloom yearly with as little maintenance as possible by the Department of Public Works. We appreciate the efforts of the Town of Westfield Department of Public Works in preparing the garden area before Keller Williams planted it.”
“RED (Renew, Energize and Donate) Day is a Keller Williams Realty service initiative dedicated to improving local communities. With 700 offices across the United States and Canada, Keller Williams Realty associates donated their time on May 13, 2010 to renewing and energizing aspects of their local communities” stated Amy Tenny, Team Leader and Managing Broker of the Westfield office.
“We’re grateful to Keller Williams. They worked with us and had the vision to enhance our North Avenue Train station.” said Sherry Cronin Executive Director of Downtown Westfield Corporation. “This project is part of our America in Bloom project (locally known as the Westfield in Bloom initiative). These knock-out roses are beautiful and should be in bloom just in time for the judging of ‘The America in Bloom’ Contest scheduled take place on July 12 and 13.”
David Williams of Williams Nursery added “We are appreciative of Fafard Soil which is located in South Carolina and is sponsoring our downtown hanging baskets and soil for our Westfleld in Bloom projects”. Westfield residents and friends are encouraged to become part of the America in Bloom Project.
Nationwide, Westfield is among 28 towns to compete in the America in Bloom initiative. Westfield has the distinction of being the only town in the state of New Jersey to participate in the 2009 and 2010 competitions. Be a part of Westfield in Bloom. Volunteer and participate by submitting stories and photos of your Westfield residence or businesses. Let us know about your outdoor beautification efforts. Contact Sherry Cronin at the DWC or Dave Williams at Williams Nursery at info@westfieldinbloom.com. Awards, including gift certificates to Downtown Businesses and Williams Nursery, will be given in the following categories: Best Window Boxes, Best Planters, Best Storefronts, Best of Westfield, Best Gardens, and Best Kid’s Gardens. To inquire about the national program, contact America in Bloom at 614-487-1117 or visit www.americainbloom.org.
Keller Williams Realty, Inc. is a real estate franchise company. Each Keller Williams office is independently owned and operated. Keller Williams Realty, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and supports the Fair Housing Act.
Photo captions: Keller Williams donated and planted the beautiful rose garden at the North Avenue Train Station with assistance from Downtown Westfield Corporation, David Williams of Williams Nursery, and the Town of Westfield Department of Public Works. Photos and release courtesy of Millicent K. Brody.
The Town of Westfield is gearing up for the annual “America in Bloom” competition (locally known as ‘Westfield in Bloom’) as the Downtown Westfield Corporation (DWC) and Williams Nursery co-lead the effort for Westfield to be considered for the 2010 "America in Bloom" award. Westfield is among 28 towns nationwide to compete this year. Westfield has the distinction of being the only town in the state of NJ to participate in the 2009 and 2010 competition.
Judges will be heading to Westfield on July 12 and 13 to view and critique various landscapes, homes and business fronts for the annual America in Bloom Competition. Final results will be announced in October at the national symposium. In 2009, Westfield received a four-bloom rating out of a possible five bloom rating (a significant achievement for a first-year competing community) and special mention for the Floral Displays category.
For local information about Westfield's involvement, to volunteer or to participate by submitting stories and photos of your Westfield residence, businesses or outdoor environment contact Sherry Cronin at the DWC or Dave Williams at Williams Nursery at info@westfieldinbloom.com. To inquire about the national program, contact America in Bloom at 614-487-1117 or visit www.americainbloom.org.
Photo caption; Young volunteers Emily Kirschner, Sara Kirschner (and their father, Joe Kirschner), Isabella Salerno, and Lauren Fazio took to the streets to clean up Central Avenue underpass and to plant some flowers around the trees. As part of the Westfield in Bloom initiative, they are proud of the work they accomplished and encourage other young volunteers to get involved.
The Westfield Historical Society held its 41st Annual Dinner Meeting on May 26, 2010 at Echo Lake Country Club and proudly hosted a record crowd. The Thomas Glasser Foundation was honored for its leading gift to the Reeve House project and its important philanthropic work in the community. Lee M. Hale presented the award to Gerry Glasser on behalf of The Thomas Glasser Foundation. Sherry Cronin presented The Presidents’ Award to Karrie Hanson for her commitment to the Westfield Historical Society and for leading the Reeve House Building Committee. Marilyn Shields was honored with The Trustees’ Award for her revered work as a landscape architect in many Westfield landscapes amd gardens. Karrie Hanson presented Letty Hudak with a Trustee Emerita award and George Gross with a Trustee Emeritus award.
In addition, the Westfield Historical Society Selection Committee inducted five individuals/families into the Westfield Hall of Fame. This is the second year that the Historical Society has inducted prominent Westfield residents into its Hall of Fame. All the nominees are accomplished in their fields, as well as having made a significant impact on the town, the state or the nation. “The list of inductees suggests that the community has fostered people of importance and achievement,” said Lee M. Hale, Chairman of the Selection Committee. Members of the Hall of Fame will be permanently honored at the Reeve House History and Cultural Center, located at 314 Mountain Avenue in Westfield. The Reeve House is being rehabilitated and restored as the historical society’s permanent home and educational center.
The 2010 inductees of the Westfield Historical Society Hall of Fame included:
1) Charles Apgar (1830-1915) – Known as the “wireless wizard” for his pivotal role in saving British and American freighters during World War I, he assisted the Secret Service in shutting down a German wireless station that was broadcasting tips to German U boats about approaching Allied merchant ships. He built and developed one of the most powerful wireless radio systems in his house on Carleton Road.
2) Sigismund Ivanowski (1874-1944) – A graduate of the St. Petersburg Academy and a renowned portrait artist, he came to the Westfield /Mountainside area with his wife, Helen Moser, and established a studio in his house on Mountain Avenue.It was there that he painted portraits of Admiral George Melville and Theodore Roosevelt, both of whose paintings are in the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C.
3) Jeff Torborg (1941- ) – An All State Catcher at Westfield High School and an All American at Rutgers, he spent 10 years in major league baseball with the Dodgers and the Angels, where he caught no-hitters for Sandy Koufax, Bill Singer and Nolan Ryan. Mr. Torborg went on to serve as a major league manager for Cleveland, the White Sox, the Mets, the Montreal Expos and the Florida Marlins.
4) The Fairbairns – Robert M. Fairbairn (1839- 1891) lived in Westfield when the population was 800 and all the roads were dirt. As chairman of the Township Committee, he set about financing and improving township roads with crushed stone and gravel. His son, Robert A. Fairbairn (1866-1951), was active in many Westfield and New York City business and civic organizations, but was best known as a sportsman. In 1900, he built and owned the Fair Acres Drivers Club, a half-mile harness racing track. His greatest triumph was as the breeder of the 1940 Kentucky Derby winner Gallahadion and the 1945 winner Hoop Jr.
5) William Reeve (1872-1963): One of the founders of the Westfield YMCA, Mr. Reeve was responsible for the World War I monument at the town center. Perhaps his most enduring contributions were the donation of the 11 acres that became Mindowaskin Park and later the donation of his family home, which is now the Reeve House History and Cultural Center.
For more information about the Westfield Historical Society or to become a member, interested persons are asked to call (908) 645-1794, e-mail the society at info@westfieldhistoricalsociety.org or visit www.westfieldhistoricalsociety.org.
Photo caption: Jeff Torborg was one of five inductees of the Westfield Hall of Fame at the recent Westfield Historical Society Annual Dinner. Pictured (left to right): Alma Kehler, Jeff Torborg, Westfield Hall of Fame Inductee, Suzie Torborg, and Nancy Priest, President of the Westfield Historical Society. Photography courtesy of Robert Meiklejohn.
Have you seen the beautiful planters that our Department of Public Works (thanks Joe, Bill and Art!) is helping to install on the light poles around the downtown? Thanks to alot of nurturing at Williams Nursery, these white and pink "Queen of Balcon" ivy geraniums and the multi-colored rectangular planters came out of their greenhouses this week just in time to make a big splash downtown. The Downtown Westfield Corporation and Williams Nursery appreciates everyone's assistance in making our downtown's floral displays really shimmer for the America in Bloom judges visit on July 12 and 13. More flowers to come. Enjoy!
The Coffee With Conscience Concert Series wraps up its TENTH SEASON by presenting World Folk-Pop group, the Guy Mendilow Band at the First United Methodist Church, 1 East Broad Street (corner of North Avenue) in Westfield, on Saturday, June 12th. Doors will open at 7:30 PM and the concert begins at 8 PM. Admission is $19.00 on line and $23.00 at the door.
This concert is the Tenth Season Finale and Ice Cream Social, with Gelato donated by Ciao Bella. Advance purchase of tickets is highly recommended by going to www.guymendilow.eventbrite.com/
This concert will benefit the Community FoodBank of New Jersey.
To Guy Mendilow the music cannot be separated from the message, whether you are part of the audience at Bethlehem Musikfest, New York’s Tribeca Performing Arts Center, in a master workshop with government education ministers from Palestine, Israel, Jordan or Lebanon, or swapping songs between Ladysmith Black Mambazo and the 26 diverse young people in the American Boychoir — Mendilow’s first touring experience. The Guy Mendilow Band continues to blur musical boundaries and offers its modest contributions to today’s larger peace puzzle: by creating person to person connections, one song at a time.
For more info about this concert and the featured artist, please visit www.guymendilow.eventbrite.com/
For more information about the Coffee With Conscience Concert Series, please visit www.coffeewithconscience.org or call the Concert Hotline at 908-412-9105. Volunteers are always appreciated!
Cool Cufflinks from The Farmhouse Store
Is Dad the Frank Sinatra type? Check out their selection of unique cufflinks so he can always look 'his way'. Is Dad the Jimmy Buffett type looking for a cheeseburger with a cold draft beer? View their selection of hand-thrown ceramic beer mugs and recycled bike chain bottle openers. Is Dad a Mario Batali wanna be? Look at the selection of salad servers, platters and dinnerware to help him be your next iron chef. 221 E. Broad St., 908.654.0444. www.thefarmhousestore.com
Montblanc Pens at Presidential Pen & Gifts
Stop by for beautiful, elegant and timeless Montblanc pens, ranging in price from $8 to $1000. Retro 51 pens are $22-$50. They also carry Bosca leather accessories, business card holders, wine stoppers, letter openers and more. 112 Central Ave., 908.317.9600. www.presidentialpen.com
Sperry Top-Siders from Scott's Shoes of Westfield
Try the popular Sperry Top-Sider boat shoes, from $75, and many other styles. 109 Quimby St., 908.233.5678. http://westfieldnj.com/scotts
Tag Heuer Timepiece from Adlers Jewelers
Celebrate the dads and grads in your life with a new watch. 219 North Ave. W., 908.233.6900. www.adlersjewelers.com
Summer Grilling Gifts from Williams-Sonoma
Williams-Sonoma has a variety of great gifts for grilling. Don't miss the new Fire Wire flexible grilling skewers, used to thread meats and vegetables in the place of traditional, rigid skewers and easier to roll in the marinade and store in a bowl. A set of 4 is $19.95. Other great gifts include the meatball grill basket $49.95, the stainless steel Basting Set $29.95, the LED Grill Light $44.95 and the Barbecue Toolset in a case $79.95. They also have a variety of rubs, such as Buttermilk Ranch, Smokehouse and Memphis Rib, for $10, and some new BBQ sauces, red chili peanut, jalapeno peach $12.95. 127 Central Ave., 908.301.0075. www.williams-sonoma.com
Leather Wallets and Belts from Coach
Get Dad a classic American men's gift from Coach. Wallets are $98 -$198, credit card cases from $48, belts $78-$98, leather money clips $38, and mens cologne $75. 249 E. Broad St., 908.654.5047. www.coach.com
Linen Shirts in All Colors at Banana Republic More than 15 colors are available in lightweight linen, long sleeve, button down shirts for $69.50. 137 Central Ave., 908.301.1553. www.bananarepublic.com
Father's Day Art from Juxtapose Gallery
Find original theme pieces for golf, fishing, billiards, chess, sailing, or even a Wychwood map. Come pick the perfect gift for Dad or Grandpa. Also, check out the fabulous new art in the window! 58 Elm St. 908.232.3278. www.juxtaposegallery.com
Custom Made Shirts and Ties from John Robert of Westfield
Treat the man in your life to something truly special, true custom made shirts (priced from $235) or a custom made tie $137.50. Shirts are made to your exact specifications and measurements, fabric cut by hand. Cloth is Italian, English or Swiss. Suits are also custom made. 31 E. Broad St., 908.232.9511.
Italian Loafers from SOLE
Nothing tells Dad you love him like a pair of fine imported Italian all leather loafers, with brands such as Rossi. Congratulations Sole for being chosen the best independent shoe store in NJ by the Star-Ledger Inside Jersey magazine! 201 E. Broad St., 908.654.7800 www.italiansole.com
Golf Shirts, Polos and Pajamas at Lord & Taylor
They carry an array of men's gifts, from golf shirts and pajamas to suits and ties. 609 North Ave. W., 908-233-6600. www.lordandtaylor.com
Ties from Jos. A. Bank
They offer men's dress shirts, ties, suits and much more. 121 Quimby St., 908-928-9363. www.josbank.com
Books from the Town Book Store
DADS LOVE BOOKS! They have a great selection of books for the special men in your life. Whether they are history buffs or sports buffs ....or something in between, the Town Book Store is sure to have something that matches their tastes. Owner Anne Laird and her staff would be happy to help you make the perfect choice. If you just can't decide, how about a gift certificate so he can pick something out for himself? 270 E. Broad St., 908.233.3535. www.townbookstore.com
Join Jay's Cycle Center for a Wine Reception and Auction on June 12th at 7pm. Live and Silent Auction will feature: complimentary wine tasting and cuisine from local restaurants, NYSE bell ringing, vintage wines, foursome at Plainfield Country Club, gift certificates, gift baskets and other items donated by Westfield’s local merchants. The evening will also feature a 50/50 raffle.
All proceeds from the evening benefit the PMC Jimmy Fund. The Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) is the world’s largest bicycle fundraiser. In 2009 the PMC raised more than $30 million for cancer research and treatment at the Dana Farber Institute through its Jimmy Fund.
Come show your support for four westfield residents riding in the 2010 PMC. For donations to the team, visit www.pmc.org and click on eGifts Rider# TC0135, Convergex Cyclers.
227 North Avenue East, 908.232.3250, www.jayscyclecenter.com
Westfield is home to a plethora of unique and stylish boutiques that you just can’t find at the mall. Next time you need a gift, a new dress or pair of jeans, a handbag, accessories, shoes, or any other clothing, fashion or gift item, try one of these terrific retailers before driving to Target or the Short Hills Mall.
Print and keep this list handy, or visit www.westfieldtoday.com/organizations for a complete list of downtown businesses and services.
Fashion & Accessories:
Anais Boutique
51 Elm Street, 233-3777 (Find them on www.Facebook.com)
Anthology
125 Quimby Street, 233-8255, www.shopanthology.com/
Bittersweet Designs
212 Lenox Avenue, 389-0330
The Couture Exchange
33 Elm Street, 232-0071, www.thecoutureexchange.com/
Felice
266 E. Broad Street, 233-1474
Francolino Clothier (for men)
129 Elm Street, 233-1273, www.francolinoclothier.com/
Funk and Standard
111 Central Avenue, 654-8707, www.funkandstandard.com/
John Robert of Westfield (for men)
31 E. Broad Street, 232-9511
Mademoiselle
107 E. Broad Street, 233-0763, www.mademoisellenj.com/
Melinda Lane
208 Lenox Avenue, 233-7033, www.shopmelindalane.com/
Menina
27 E. Broad Street, 654-0358
Nirvana
218 E. Broad Street, 232-5774, www.shopnirvana.com/
Rhain Accessories & Gifts
129 E. Broad Street, 518-0700
Roman Boutique and Tailoring
106 Elm Street, 654-1658
Sadie
107 Prospect Street, 654-3800, www.sadie4lady.com/
Sole
201 E. Broad Street, 654-7800, www.italiansole.com/
Splash Boutique
15 E. Broad Street, 228-2381
Gifts:
The Bath Junkie
221 North Avenue E., 264-8633, www.bathjunkie.com/
Bittersweet Designs
212 Lenox Avenue, 389-0330
The Farmhouse Store
221 E. Broad Street, 654-0444, www.thefarmhousestore.com/
Funk and Standard
111 Central Avenue, 654-8707, www.funkandstandard.com/
Inspire
431 South Avenue W., 232-2330 www.inspirenj.com
J. Winthrop & Company
233 North Avenue E., 232-8199
Just Bead Yourself
254 E. Broad St., BEAD-411, www.just-bead-yourself.com/
O’ Ireland
28 Prospect Street, 654-3490, www.oireland.com/
Presidential Pen & Gifts
112 Central Avenue, 317-9600, www.presidentialpen.com/
Rhain Accessories & Gifts
129 E. Broad Street, 518-0700
Success Express
57 Elm Street, 233-9909
The Town Book Store
270 E. Broad St., 908.233.3535, www.townbookstore.com
Shoes:
Castle Bootery (children)
52 Elm St. 233-7172
Randal’s Shoes (women & children)
82 Elm St. 232-3680
The Running Company
123 Quimby St., 654-9900, www.therunningcompany.net/
Scott’s Shoes of Westfield (men & women)
109 Quimby St., 233-5678, www.westfieldnj.com/scotts/
Sole (men, women & children)
201 E. Broad St., 654-7800, www.italiansole.com/
National Chains are here too!
Large, familiar retailers are also in Westfield, so you can count on the merchandise you know and love to be here, mixed nicely among the boutiques. These local stores won’t get the credit for your purchase if you shop online, so if you want to keep these anchor stores here in Westfield, help keep them in business in our town by shopping at these fine clothing, shoes, gifts & accessories stores locally.
Aerosoles
161 E, Broad St., 232-2963
Ann Taylor
167 E. Broad Street, 301-9701
Banana Republic
137 Central Avenue, 301-1553
Chico’s
76 Elm Street, 301-1737
The Children’s Place
177 E. Broad Street, 789-7542
Claire’s
141 E. Broad Street, 317-9157
Coach
249 E. Broad Street, 654-5047
Coldwater Creek
126 Cental Avenue, 233-2873
Eileen Fisher
9 Elm Street, 233-7133
Esprit
151 E. Broad Street, 233-7878
Game Stop
121 E. Broad St. 233-5435
Gap
207 E. Broad Street, 654-8260
Gap Kids
234 E. Broad Street, 233-2723
Janie and Jack
200 E. Broad Street, 232-3721
Jos. A. Bank Clothier
121 Quimby Street, 928-9363
Lord & Taylor
609 North Avenue W., 233-6600
Lucky Brand Jeans
253 E. Broad Street., 518-1794
Talbots
217 North Avenue W., 232-4434
Tuxedos by Cozy
222A North Avenue W., 301-0040
Victoria’s Secret
233 E. Broad Street, 518-0859
Williams-Sonoma
127 Central Avenue, 301-0075
This year's Memorial Day parade was held on Monday, May 31 at 9:30am. The only parade held in Town and pays tribute to the men and women who gave their lives fighting for our freedom, many people marched in the parade and many people watched the parade.
The ceremony started at 9am at the tall World War Monument at the circle (North Ave. and E. Broad St.). The parade began after the ceremony at 9:30am, marching up E. Broad St. to Fairview Cemetery.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
10:00 a.m – 2:00 p.m
Come to Citibank Westfield, 240-42 North Ave. W., and enjoy the tastes of what we have to offer!
Restaurants serving: Isabella’s, Tinga, Ole Fire Grill, Ferraro’s, Windmill, Vicky’s Diner, Theresa’s, Robert Treat, Xocolatz, Mojave Grille, Brick Oven, Bel Paese, Qdoba, Subway, Chez Catherine, Rock’n’Joe
The Friends of Westfield Symphony Orchestra proudly present The 2010 Tour Of NOTABLE HOMES.
The tour features:
√ 5 Outstanding local residences
√ Basket raffle, plant sale, rug raffle
√ Musical interlude and refreshments
√ Tibetan decorative home accents
√ Door prizes
Saturday, June 5, 2010
10am - 3pm
Tickets: $30 in advance ($35 at door)
908.232.9400
Never one to leave home without her camera, Millicent K. Brody began the artful side of her life when it became a requirement to accompany each of her newspaper and magazine stories with a photograph.
“I was definitely not camera savvy,” She said. “I only knew when I accepted my first restaurant job my editor quipped, “You’ll need a camera. All of your stories must be accompanied with a photograph.”
Finally, relying on the expertise of a camera maven, she purchased her first ‘point-and-shoot’ and headed to Girasole Ristorante in Bound Brook where her first restaurant story and photo are featured in the popular BYO’s lobby. That was about fifteen years ago. Last year at the Union County Senior Art Exhibit held at the Elizabethtown Gas Co., Liberty Hall Center, in Union, she received first place honors for her photograph entitled “Medium Rare”.
A freelance writer, photographer, and public relations consultant, Millicent K. Brody’s mantra has always been, “I want to write what you read”. Taking a cue from her passion, people can find her stories in many of our Tri-State’s magazines and newspapers, including the New York Times. With a giant passion for food and contemporary issues, her columns appear in Edible Jersey Magazine, The Courier-News, Home News Tribune, Asbury Park Press, and Online for The Alternative Press, WestfieldToday.Com, and New Jersey Life Magazine.
A former Westfield New Jersey public school teacher, Millicent continually urged her students to write something each and every day. Not one to not do what she asks others to do, she taught school during the day, while pursing a career as a freelance journalist. After attending The New School in Manhattan, her first story appeared in The New York Times. From there, she was invited to write a column for The Westfield Leader. It was titled: Musings.
Today, she not only takes pictures and writes stories, she serves as a public relations consultant penning articles for clients as well as business magazines and newsletters. A member of The Contemporary Art Group of Union County, her first solo exhibit of her photographs is titled Musings and will show at the Pearl St. Gallery in Elizabeth June 8 to July4. Millicent K. Brody is looking forward to the launch of her food blog: Central Jersey Eats.
Contact Millicent K. Brody, writer - photographer
public relations consultant, at 908.232.3889 or 908.232.3888. cell:908.377.8588.
(May 3, 2010) - The Westfield Memorial Library was recently honored by the New Jersey Library Association (NJLA) as a winner of a PR and Marketing award in the category of Public Relations Campaign. The campaign was judged along with other libraries that have budgets between $1 and $4 million dollars.
The campaign, "It's your Library . make the most of it," was created by publicist Roz Giuditta. Originally designed as a newspaper ad, the campaign spotlights all the free and low cost services that are available to library patrons, such as the most recent CDs and DVDs; best sellers; books, newspapers and magazines; programs for adults, teen and children; over 20 public computers with free Internet service; numerous research databases, professional reference service; free Wifi and book clubs.
"We have so much to offer here," said Ms. Giuditta. "I wanted people to go beyond the services that they use, and to take advantage of all that the Library has. Ultimately, it belongs to them."
After the newspaper ad ran with an accompanying article by Director Phil Israel, signs of the public relations campaign sprouted all over the library at 550 East Broad Street. Small stand-up displayers sat on tables and the tops of shelves, while flyers and posters decorated the walls and lobby. The monitor at the Circulation Desk began flashing the message throughout the day as well.
In conjunction with local cable television station TV-36, public service announcements highlighting six library services were also created. They can be viewed on the library's website www.wmlnj.org.
The plaque from the NJLA is mounted on the wall next to the Circulation Desk.
Founded in 1879, the Westfield Memorial Library strives to provide the Westfield community an environment that promotes a love of reading and ensures free access to ideas and information. For more information call 908.789.4090, visit the library's website at www.wmlnj.org, and sign up for the monthly e-newsletter "Library Loop," or stop by the library at 550 East Broad Street for a copy of the quarterly newsletter "Take Note."
Is your business blooming the way you would like it to? Our next big networking event! Don’t miss it! Come out to one of the most beautiful locations for a networking event. Fresh air! The wonderful smell of flowers! Stroll through the beautiful gardens with us! Advanced online registration is required at www.westfieldareachamber.com.
Chamber Member registration fee: $10. Future Member Registartion fee: $15. Call 908-233-3021 email: morenberg@westfieldareachamber.com
Visit the South Avenue Train Station every Saturday from 8:30am to 2:00pm to get the best JERSEY FRESH fruits and vegetables. In addition, be sure to try the baked goods and other specialty items!
Sponsored by the Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce 908-233-3021.
The Town of Westfield is gearing up for the second annual “America in Bloom” competition. Co-leading the efforts are the Downtown Westfield Corporation (DWC) and Williams Nursery. Working together, their focus is the 2010 America in Bloom award.
Nationwide, Westfield is among 28 towns to compete this year. Westfield has the distinction of being the only town in the state of New Jersey to participate in the 2009 and 2010 competitions.
A team effort, the Downtown Westfield Corporation and Williams Nursery are working in concert with the Town of Westfield and its residents, as well as local businesses and organizations to hopefully garner the grand prize. Along with an array of colorful hanging flower baskets, decorative planters containing an assortment of flowers will be adorning storefronts, restaurants and shops in the downtown district. As patrons and visitors drive through our town, beautiful flowering baskets will be installed on the historic utility poles.
Be sure to welcome America in Bloom judges, Bruce Riggs and Marlboro Packard as they travel around Westfield on July 12 and 13 viewing and critiquing our various landscapes, homes, business fronts, schools, houses of worships, parks and recreational facilities. Final results will be announced in October at the national symposium. In 2009, Westfield received a four-bloom rating out of a possible five bloom rating (a significant achievement for a first-year competing community) and special mention for the Floral Displays category.
Be a part of Westfield in Bloom. Volunteer and participate by submitting stories and photos of your Westfield residence or businesses. Let us know about your outdoor beautification efforts. Contact Sherry Cronin at the DWC or Dave Williams at Williams Nursery at info@westfieldinbloom.com. To inquire about the national program, contact America in Bloom at 614-487-1117 or visit www.americainbloom.org.
Photo caption: Westfield in Bloom boasts colorful flower boxes in downtown Westfield.
The Bath Junkie and The Farmhouse Store teamed up at the 2010 Spring Fling in Downtown Westfield. Owners Katie Cantor of The Bath Junkie and Ed Menapace of The Farmhouse Store along with their dedicated staffs braved the inclement weather to display some of their unique products. The Bath Junkie opened in the space previously occupied by The Farmhouse Store at 221 North Avenue E. Coincidentally, The Farmhouse Store moved to larger space at 221 E. Broad Street. Both businesses report strong sales – a result of the kind of partnerships and community involvement they embrace!
Starting Mother's Day, May 9th, 2010, Feast Catering is introducing an upscale Sunday Brunch.
Besides the amazing mix of salads and sandwiches you're accustomed to, Feast Catering will offer a second to none Sunday Brunch. With outdoor seating available, you'll enjoy refreshing beverages, unique European inspired cuisine and the great service Feast is known for.
Call for reservations (908) 654-0045. Enjoy the Pre Fix Menu with seating choice at 10:30am or 12:30pm.
Menu:
Eggs Benedict's W/ Grilled Asparagus And Fresh Fruit
French Crepe W/ Ham – Swiss – Mozzarella – Potato – Béchamel – And Fried Egg
French Crepes W/ Chocolate – Banana – Fresh Strawberries And Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Brioche French Toast W/ Fresh Berries And A Sabayon Sauce
The Great British Fry Up !!
2 Eggs Over Easy – Fried Bread - Link Sausage - English Bacon Sautéed Mushrooms & Oven Roasted Vine Ripe Tomato ..
F.C. Omelet Make Your Own !!!
3 Egg Omelet With The Choice Of Any 4 Toppings
Swiss – Mozzarella – Tomato - Scallions- Spinach- Bacon – Potato – Mushrooms ..Served W/ Fried Potato And Fresh Fruit
Brioche French Toast W/ Fresh Berries And A Sabayon Sauce
$19.95 Per Person + Tax & Gratuity
Price Includes 1 Of The Above + Coffee Or Tea
( Cappuccino Add $1.50 ) - Slice Of Home Made Loaf Cake
Orange Juice ( You Can Bring The Champagne ) Or Tomato Juice
( For The Bloody Mary Lovers ) – Bring The Vodka !!!
27 ELM ST WESTFIELD – 908 654 0045, www.feastcateringwestfield.com
To help you reach your retirement goals, I wanted to inform you of a recent change in tax law that might work to your advantage.
Before recent law changes, conversion from a Traditional IRA to a Roth IRA was only available to individuals meeting certain criteria. Beginning in 2010, everyone will have the opportunity to convert. Unlike the Traditional IRA, a Roth IRA allows tax-free withdrawals, a tax-free inheritance for your heirs, and no requirement to take minimum distributions from the account. In order to take advantage of these Roth advantages, I recommend that we touch base and take inventory of your retirement accounts.
If you are not currently holding assets in a Traditional IRA, you can take advantage of conversion by maximizing contributions into a new account until 2010. If you have retirement assets with other financial institutions, we can talk about consolidating those accounts and converting all or part of these assets to a Morgan Stanley Smith Barney Roth IRA as well.
Please contact Eileen R Beatty (908 518 3790) to discuss your retirement planning options and arrange a complimentary workshop analysis of the IRA choices available to you.
I look forward to speaking with you.
This event, which is one of the largest non-corporate 5K races in the state, attracted over 2,500 runners and over 6,000 spectators last year for an evening of running, pizza, prizes, and entertainment. According to Sherry Cronin, Executive Director of Downtown Westfield Corporation, "The event has become well known as the 'pizza run' and is a great way to showcase the business community and surrounding neighborhoods. Given the popularity of the event, we decided to make it pre-registration only this year. Last year, almost a third of the runners registered on the night of the event making it challenging to register everyone and start the event on time. Mark Zenobia of On Your Mark Productions does a great job in directing the event and has recommended pre-registration only and introducing new ChronoTrack d-tag scoring."
Six levels of sponsorship are being offered to businesses, ranging in price from $250 to $10,000. Each level offers a unique way to become involved. For businesses located in the Special Improvement District, The DWC is offering a 15% discount on any speonsorship to encourage greater participation. Any proceeds from this 2010 event will be earmarked for future streetscape inprovements downtown.
The race will be held on the USATF certified course, beginning and ending in the center of Downtown. Pizza and dessert will be provided to all registered runners. Entertainment will be provided by the ever-popular Michael Craig Band with an awards ceremony immediately following the race. Register by mail or online at www.PracticeHard.com. T-shirts will be provided to the first 2,000 entrants. Embroidered caps will be provided to the first 600 entrants. To print a registration form and mail it in, click here to download a pdf of the race application.
To find out more about the Downtown Westfield 5K & Pizza Extravaganza and sponsorship opportunities, contact Sherry Cronin or Beth Brenner at the Downtown Westfield Corporation at 105 Elm Street , Westfield, NJ 07090 (908) 789-9444.
WE THE PEOPLE - Musical solidarity, humanism and heroism heralding from opposite ends of the earth. BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 9 (Choral) with Pro Arte Chorale, XIAN Yellow River Cantata, featuring Chinese choruses from NY and NJ. Saturday, May 8th at 8pm, at the Presbyterian Church in Westfield. Free pre-concert lecture at 7pm. Tickets are $25-$70. Call 908 232 9400.
G. Wiz Auto Auto Entertainment presents a charity event -- the First Annual Exotic Super Car Showcase, Sunday May 2, 2010 at the Westfield Train Station, North side behind Verizon Wireless. Join the fun 11:00am-5pm, raindate Sunday, May 9. General Admission $8.00, children 3-12 yrs $5.00.
Invited car clubs include BMW, Corvette, Ferrari, Lotus, Viper, Lamborghini Pantera and Swift. Special events will include an exotic luxury car gallery, a muscle car section, and a dream car fantasy photo section featuring The Bat Mobile & The United We Stand Corvette. Trophies will be awarded to best in class in US, German, Classic, Vintage, Exotic, Motorcycle, and more.
This special event will benefit the Westfield Neighborhood Council. For more information contact Gwiz2carwash@aol.com.
For tickets contact WNC at 908.233.2772.
G. Wiz Auto Auto Entertainment presents a charity event -- the First Annual Exotic Super Car Showcase, Sunday May 2, 2010 at the Westfield Train Station, North side behind Verizon Wireless. Join the fun 11:00am-5pm, raindate Sunday, May 9. General Admission $8.00, children 3-12 yrs $5.00
This special event will benefit the Westfield Neighborhood Council. For more information contact Gwiz2carwash@aol.com.
With this month's debut of "THE ADDAMS FAMILY, A NEW MUSICAL" on Broadway, cartoonist and Westfield native Charles Addams was honored by two special events.
At an unveiling ceremony at Westfield High School on April 5, there was an outdoor art exhibit of the letters that spell out ADDAMS. Conceived by Ronald MacCloskey, the founder of the Charles Addams Scholarship Fund, the letters were uniquely decorated by students from Westfield High School, Roosevelt Intermediate School and Edison Intermediate School. The artwork on the letters focused on original themes and drawings of Charles Addams' work.
"I wanted a cross between the Hollywood sign and the Cow Parade," MacCloskey said, citing the public art exhibit of ceramic cows throughout Manhattan.
The letters will become a public art exhibit for the community. They will first be displayed for several weeks at the schools. The Downtown Westfield Corporation helped fund this effort and plans to use them as public art around the business district. According to DWC Executive Director Sherry Cronin, the letters will be on exhibit in October, in time for Halloween.
Also in celebration of the upcoming musical, an Addams Family Autographed Poster was auctioned on eBay, March 23rd through Thursday, April 1, 2010. The original, brand new, full color poster from THE ADDAMS FAMILY, A NEW MUSICAL was donated by the producers of the Broadway show. It was signed by members of the cast, which include the stars, Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth. The poster was professionally framed by Galeria West, 111 Quimby Street, and was put up for auction with assistance from the DWC.
The poster sold on eBay for $442. The net profits will be given to the Charles Addams Art Scholarship. Each year a student who is majoring in art and graduating from Westfield High School in Westfield is awarded the money.
Charles Addams created the original "kooky" Addams Family characters as a cartoonist for the New Yorker Magazine.
The Brick Oven to Continue Restaurant Week Lunch
Enjoy a great Italian $10, 2-course lunch as Brick Oven extends their Winter Restaurant Week offering through the end of April. Monday - Friday, lunch only. Don't miss this great deal!117 Quimby St., 908.317.9500.
Feast Catering Now Delivers Through Delivery Now
Feast Catering of Westfield and Delivery Now have joined forces to bring Feast Catering to your home. Check for daily specials and don't worry about parking! 27 Elm St., 908.654.0045. www.feastcateringwestfield.com
Cosimo's is Expanding This popular Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria will be expanding their dining room into the adjacent building, which is currently an empty storefront and was formerly Little Treasures. 118 E Broad St., 908.654.8787. www.cosimosrestaurant.com
CoolVines Mentioned in New York Times
Wednesday March 24, 2010 -- Eric Asimov of the NY Times, wrote..."The recent vintage of shops can be found in pockets of wine enthusiasm around the country, including DomaineLA in Los Angeles, Terroir Natural Wine Merchant in San Francisco and CoolVines in Princeton, N.J. But enthusiasm seems to burn hottest in New York City." Read the Article: www.nytimes.com/2010/03/24/dining/24pour.html
23 Elm St., Westfield NJ, 908.232.5050 www.coolvines.com
Complimentary Dessert at Ana Beall's Tea Room
Spring is here, and the great flavors of the season are making a grand entrance! Stop by for dinner on Friday or Saturday night, and enjoy a delicious Strawberry Shortcake on them! Mention this promotion, and receive this or one of their other delicious desserts, free with your meal. Weather permitting, enjoy al fresco dining on their patio! 415 Westfield Ave., 908.264.4221. www.anabeallstearoom.com
Double Stuff Oreo Ice Cream Sandwiches at Cold Stone
This new ice cream creation is made with Cold Stone's new Oreo Creme Filling ice cream, sandwiched between 2 big Oreo Wafers. For a limited time only, they will be available at $8.99 a 4-pack. 163 E. Broad St., 908.518.0044. www.coldstonecreamery.com
Autism Awareness Month at Rockn' Joe
April is Autism Awareness Month and Rockn' Joe is doing its part to help raise awareness and support families with autistic children. Every time you visit Rockn' Joe during the month of April, you are welcome to select from the free autism awareness items at the counter. Child alert decals, rubber bracelets, books and DVDs will all be available. The child alert decals notify police, fire and EMTs that a child with autism is in the home or car the sticker is affixed to, which helps them respond appropriately in the event of an emergency. The rubber bracelets read "I Have Autism," "I Have Asperger's," or "I Love Someone With Autism." The books and DVDs are educational resources that can help educate children about autism. Rockn' Joe has made a donation to Autism Speaks in support of Autism Awareness Month. The coffeehouse & bistro will also be selling Bachman Puzzle Piece Pretzels throughout the month of April, proceeds are donated to Autism Speaks. 20 Prospect St., 908.232.1660. www.rocknjoe.net
This is your chance to help your favorite fundraising organization raise money in style! With the purchase of a $5 ticket, you will receive a 20% coupon to be used on one sale or regular priced item, and a 15% savings pass, valid all day, on almost anything in the store including cosmetics and fragrances!
On this day, there will be special events throughout the store, including national makeup artists who will be on hand to provide complimentary makeovers at any cosmetic counter. Other events include special guest appearances, gift with purchases, and much more. Plus register for your chance to win one of many great prizes.
For more information or to purchase your ticket in support of your favorite charity, visit http://www.lordandtaylor.com/eng/Gifts-Westfield__NJ__Tuesday__May_4th-lordandtaylor/141983
Lord & Taylor, 609 North Ave. W., 908.233.6600.
The ribbon cutting for Westfield Kitchen & Bath, 305 South Ave. W, Westfield, NJ took place recently. John Tyahla, Owner of Westfield Kitchen & Bath Co. represents Kingswood Kitchens, Inc. for the State of New Jersey. Pictured: Beth Brenner, Downtown Westfield Corporation (DWC) Asst. Executive Director, Gianna Tyahla, Vicky Tyahla, John Paul Tyahla, Diane Barabas, DWC Board of Director, Mayor Andy Skibitsky, Owner John Tyahla, Sherry Cronin, DWC Executive Director, and Neil Pinkman, Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director. Photo courtesy of Vadim Rud.
Dean Nahas, owner of the two Westfield Subway locations recently hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony. Attending were (left to right): Amanda Werner, Subway customer, Mayor Andy Skibitsky, Marcello Sam, Subway employee, Dean Nahas, Subway Owner, Neil Pinkman, Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Diane Barabas, Downtown Westfield Corporation (DWC) Board of Director, Nil Majmundar, Subway employee, and Sherry Cronin, DWC Executive Director.
106 Quimby St., 908.232.4760
Don't miss four days of outdoor shopping and bargains when downtown Westfield, NJ merchants open their doors and bring their goods out onto the streets! Enjoy the deals for four days only, Thursday, April 29 through Sunday May 2, 2010.
Don't be Alice and Wonder about Spring Makeup! Join the newly opened Designer Fragrances & Cosmetic Co. (DF&CCO) along with Ana Beall's Tea Room for our Grand Opening Tea Party, April 15th. Tea time is from 5pm-8pm, and appointments are available from 1pm-7pm. Receive a free makeup application and 25% off when you purchase $50 or more. Please RSVP by April 8, 2010 by calling 908.389.1719.
Renee Gatz, April 10th from 11-1 PM Wise Words & Witty Expressions
Wise Words & Witty Expressions is a collection of expressions--profound, funny and even sarcastic--said to the author, Renee' Gatz, by her parents growing up to help her navigate her way through life's ups and downs. As a child, Gatz would roll her eyes when she heard these expressions and as an adult she was horrified when she found herself saying them herself. As she grew though, she began to appreciate the value of these expressions and their ability to help her understand, laugh and even survive.
Josie Varga, April 17th from 2-4 PM Visits From Heaven
Westfield resident, Josie Varga has assembled an incomparable collection of what she terms "visits from heaven" from around the globe and backed up by testimony from some of the world's leading experts on afterlife communication. This groundbreaking book will lead you to question your own mortality with the realization that we are all eternal energy beings, and energy can neither be created nor destroyed. When you reach the end of this book, you will find that the most prudent explanation is that there is nothing final about death. You always were and you always will be.
Sue Anderson, April 24th from 2-4 PM You're Lovable to Me
Through the eyes of a bunny family, author Kat Yeh and illustrator Sue Anderson introduce families to a heartwarming tale that is sure to touch readers of all ages. You're Lovable to Me is the perfect bedtime story bringing families together to learn about the power and simplicity of unconditional love. Through the use of gentle rhyme and classic illustrations; this is a classic tale of love that can be shared with all generations
The Coffee With Conscience Concert Series continues its TENTH SEASON by presenting Lucy Kaplansky. This show will take place at the First United Methodist Church, 1 East Broad Street (corner of North Avenue) in Westfield, on Saturday, April 17th. Doors will open at 7:15 PM and the concert begins at 8 PM. Admission is $23.00 on line and $27.00 at the door.
This concert will benefit the Keith Knost Special Needs Trust. Touring Singer/songwriter, Randall Williams, will open the show. Advance purchase of tickets is highly recommended by going to www.lucykaplansky2.eventbrite.com.
Lucy Kaplansky started out singing in Chicago bars. Then, barely out of high school, Lucy Kaplansky took off for New York City. There she found a fertile community of songwriters and performers - Suzanne Vega, John Gorka, Bill Morrissey, Cliff Eberhardt, and others - where she fit right in. With a beautiful flair for harmony, Lucy was everyone's favorite singing partner, but most often she found herself singing as a duo with Shawn Colvin. People envisioned big things for them; in fact, The New York Times said it was "easy to predict stardom for her." But then Lucy dropped it all! Lucy left the musical fast track to pursue a doctorate in Psychology!
Upon completing her degree, Dr. Kaplansky took a job at a New York hospital working with chronically mentally ill adults, and also started a private practice. Yet she continued to sing. Lucy was often pulled back into the studio by her friends, (who now had contracts with record labels) wanting her to sing on their albums. She harmonized on Colvin's Grammy-winning Steady On, on Nanci Griffith's Lone Star State of Mind and Little Love Affairs, and on four of John Gorka's albums. She also landed soundtrack credits, singing with Suzanne Vega on Pretty in Pink and with Griffith on The Firm, and several commercial credits.
Then Shawn Colvin, who was itching to produce a record, hooked up with Lucy, her ex-singing partner. They went into the studio, and it all came together. When Lucy's solo tapes got into the hands of Bob Feldman, president of Red House Records, he was blown away. Suddenly, Lucy was back in the music business. She signed with Red House and started playing gigs. Red House released The Tide in 1994 to rave reviews, and within six months Lucy signed with a major booking agency, and began touring so much it required leaving her two psychologist positions behind.
Five albums behind her, Lucy rediscovers her musical roots and returns to the more acoustic sound of the music she first fell in love with - folk and classic country. Lucy's new life as a mother has enhanced the emotional depth of her songwriting. Her sixth album "Over the Hills," released in Matrch, 2007, explores universal themes of love, joy, loss, and dreams for the future, through reflections on family. The record features guest vocalists Eliza Gilkyson, Buddy Miller, Richard Shindell and Jonatha Brooke. It is pure Americana, wonderfully raw and rich with heartache and hope.
For more info about this concert and the featured artist, please visit www.lucykaplansky2.eventbrite.com or http://www.lucykaplansky.com
The Coffee With Conscience Concert Series is a ten-show series running from September through June at the First United Methodist Church of Westfield. The Series supports the following charities: Contact We Care (Westfield), Homefirst (Plainfield), Habitat for Humanity (Plainfield), the Community Food Bank of NJ (Hilside) and the Keith Knost Special Needs Trust (Mountainside). Each beneficiary has two concerts dedicated to it during the season.
The Coffee With Conscience Concert Series is made possible in part by a generous grant from the Westfield Service League, and other private donations – which are enthusiastically encouraged.
For more information about the Coffee With Conscience Concert Series, the upcoming performance, or ways in which to get involved with the series, please visit www.coffeewithconscience.org. You can also call the Concert Hotline at 908-412-9105 or send an e-mail to ahrre@ahrre.com. Volunteers are always appreciated!
Program Shows Net Gains of New/Expanded Businesses and New Jobs in 2009
TRENTON, N.J., March 29, 2010 – The Department of Community Affairs’ (DCA) Main Street New Jersey Program in 2009 posted its 20th straight year of business and job expansion despite the difficult economy. The program witnessed net gains of 128 new/expanded businesses and 513 new jobs, and attracted more than $123.5 million in public and private investment in such areas as property purchases, façade improvements and building rehabilitation.
“Governor Christie is committed to boosting business and job growth in New Jersey and Main Street New Jersey is among the most effective programs the State has in advancing this goal,” said Acting DCA Commissioner Lori Grifa. “Year in and year out, Main Street New Jersey squeezes as much as it can out of the funding it is given and 2009 was no different. From business and job expansion to façade restorations to building renovations and construction, the program has done remarkable work even in these lean times.”
Main Street New Jersey had a $412 return on investment for every state dollar invested in the program in 2009. Local stakeholders and volunteers contributed approximately $2,378,595 worth of free labor toward the improvement of the traditional business districts. Additionally, 32 properties were purchased, 139 façades renovated, 142 buildings rehabilitated, and 13 construction projects started in 2009.
“Main Street New Jersey helps municipalities throughout the state improve their economy, appearance and image with the help of local citizens and resources,” said Jef Buehler, Director of the Main Street New Jersey and Improvement District Programs at the DCA. “As the economic viability of a community’s downtown area increases, more and more shoppers, visitors and local workers begin to rely on what is offered. That increases revenue to a community, which in turn creates new jobs and business investment.”
There were 28 designated communities in the Main Street New Jersey Program in 2009. The list includes Atlantic City, Boonton, Bridgeton, Burlington, Caldwell, Glassboro, Hammonton, Highland Park, Jersey City, Lawrenceville, Maple Shade, Millville, Montclair, Mount Holly, New Egypt, Newton, Ocean City, Orange, Salem, Somerville, South Orange, Vineland, West Orange, Westfield, Wildwood, Woodbury, and Camden’s Broadway and Fairview districts.
Established in 1989, Main Street New Jersey is a comprehensive revitalization program that promotes the historic and economic redevelopment of traditional business districts in New Jersey. The program builds on the Main Street Approach™ that was developed by the National Trust's National Main Street Center in 1980 to assist downtown revitalization efforts nationwide. Communities participating in Main Street New Jersey receive valuable technical support and training to assist in improving their Main Streets. The program employs a four-point approach that focuses on:
· Building a strong local Main Street organization that is well-represented and funded by stakeholders such as residents, merchants, civic groups, and bankers;
· Restructuring the district’s economics by engaging in such activities as recruiting new businesses, converting unused space for new uses, and sharpening the competitiveness of merchants;
· Enhancing the visual appearance, attractiveness and traffic management of the business district; and
· Promoting the district through festivals, retail events and marketing campaign to encourage consumer traffic.
For more information regarding Main Street New Jersey, log on to www.mainstreetnewjersey.com
On Sunday, April 25th from 10AM to 5PM, The streets of Westfield will be lined with hundreds of vendors,and plenty of food & entertainment. It is a fun filled day for everyone. Don't miss it!














