Westfield Announcements
Announcements for Schools
NY REAL ESTATE RESIDENTIAL JANUARY 14, 2012 --
New Arrivals, Longtimers Mix in Westfield
By MELANIE LEFKOWITZ
The town of Westfield, in New Jersey's Union County, blends a sophisticated downtown, lined with high-end stores and art galleries, with a small-town atmosphere, thanks to its close-knit community and historic homes.
Westfield's mix of cosmopolitan and bucolic draws young families from New York and Hoboken, as well as the grown children of longtime residents. Brokers say they also have seen increasing numbers of work-related relocations, as people moving to work in the New York area for a few years are attracted to Westfield's schools, central location and varied housing stock.
Meet and talk with Westfield resident, filmmaker Kenneth Waddell, the co-writer and co-executive producer of the new The Elf on the Shelf: An Elf Story Movie Special on Saturday, December 3, 2011 from 11-1 PM. The Elf on the Shelf began as a family tradition that has become a phenomenon. This tradition now comes to life in the new movie special The Elf on the Shelf: An Elf's Story, which will air on CBS for the first time at the end of November. The movie tells the tale of Chippey, the young scout elf assigned by Santa to the family of Taylor McTuttle, who's not sure how Santa REALLY knows who's naughty or nice... or if he even believes Santa is real. Chippey quickly finds himself facing the challenge of his life! If you are unable to attend this event, feel free to call The Town Book Store at (908) 233-3535 to reserve a copy of this new movie, The Elf’s Story and/or The Elf on the Shelf boxed set.
Kessler Rehabilitation Center
American Red Cross Blood Drive
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
9:00 AM - 2:30 PM
190 Elm Street
Westfield, NJ
APPOINTMENTS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED
For your convenience appointments can be made by
Signing up online Click Here
Questions about eligibility please call our donor health line at 1-866-236-3276
November 20, 2:00 to 4:00: "Thanksgiving Dinner Demonstration and Table Customs"
It's the holiday season at the Miller Cory House Museum! Enjoy the sights, sounds, and delicious aromas of a traditional colonial Thanksgiving dinner as members of the Cooking Committee demonstrate the preparation of a holiday feast over the open hearth. The program also includes a presentation on early American manners, table settings, and other "table top" traditions as well as tours of the farmhouse. Admission is $3.00 for adults and $1.00 for students; children under four are free.
December 4, 1:30 to 4:00: "Gingerbread Sunday"
The spicy scent of gingerbread has long been associated with the winter holidays. Children will make a gingerbread house plus one additional craft to take home. The program includes storytelling and light refreshments. Reservations are required and must be received by noon on December 2. Admission is $4.00 per child; accompanying adults are free.
December 11, 2:00 to 4:00: "Polish Christmas Customs"
Highlighting this program is the preparation of traditional Polish holiday dishes over the open hearth. Visitors will also learn about Polish Christmas customs and tour the farmhouse. Admission is $4.00 for adults and $1.00 for students; children under four are free.
The Great Pumpkin Fair at Franklin
Saturday, October 15, 11am-4pm
The annual Pumpkin Fair will be held once again at the Franklin Elementary School, located at 700 Prospect Street in Westfield on Saturday, October 15, 2011 from 11am to 4pm. The Franklin Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is gearing up for this Franklin School tradition to be an extraordinary event, filled with family fun for everyone. Enjoy the haunted house, a musical cookie walk, funky face painting, creepy crafts, games, prizes, live goldfish, raffle baskets, food and baked goods galore. Rain or shine.
Miller-Cory House Museum Halloween Hocus Pocus
Sunday, October 23, 1:30pm - 4pm
614 Mountain Ave., 908.232.1776. www.millercoryhouse.org
Williams Nursery 19th Annual Costume Contest
Saturday October 29th, 2pm
There will be 3 age categories: 5 years & under, 6-12 years, and adults (age disclosure not required). Prizes will be awarded for First, Second and Third Place. Plus, hayrides all month! 524 Springfield Ave. 908.232.4076. www.williamsnursery.com
HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR with Westfield Symphony Orchestra, Saturday, October 29 at 7pm
Saturday, October 29, 2011 at 7pm at The Presbyterian Church in Westfield -- Savor the silver screen's final silent masterpiece - swashbuckling musketeers and more - as Westfield Symphony Orchestra celebrates Halloween by bringing to life, in glorious symphonic technicolor, the original 1929 movie The Iron Mask starring Douglas Fairbanks. More than 50 WSO musicians will perform LIVE a magnificent soundtrack by renowned composer Carl Davis as the original classic movie is projected above the orchestra and in full view of the audience. FIRST PRIZE $200 -- wear your costume! Judging at intermission. For tickets and information, visit http://westfieldsymphony.org/
Trick or Treat Downtown & Costume Contest
Sunday, October 30, 11am - 3pm
Put on your costumes (early) and bring the kids downtown to enjoy trick or treating in the retail stores of Westfield. Shopkeepers give out candy to your little ghosts, goblins and witches while you stroll. Costume contest will follow at 3:30pm on Quimby St. Rain or shine. For more information, call the DWC 908.789.9444.
The Optimist Club of Westfield Presents Westfield's Halloween Celebration, Sunday, October 30th, Noon -1pm
Join the fun with a costume contest at noon at the Elm St. field. There will be Halloween characters & scenes, free balloons, music and a special exhibit of Westfield's own The Addams Family. Take your own pictures with witches, ghosts and goblins. Children (pre-school through intermediate school) who want to participate in the costume contest should arrive at the Elm Street field at noon. Prizes awarded. The parade will follow at 1pm and walk to Downtown. For more information, contact optimist@westfieldnj.com.
Wiliams Nursery Annual Scarecrow Contest
October 31
Entries must be submitted by October 9, 4pm. Information and entry forms available at www.williamsnursery.com
Halloween Extravaganza at Jeffrey's of Westfield
Friday October 28 - Monday October 31
The restaurant will be fully transformed into a haunted house, with staff in costume and their entire menu Halloween-themed. Festivities throughout the weekend. Pama Pomegranate Liqueur party on Friday October 29 from 7-9pm, costume contest Saturday for all ages: First prize will be a $50 gift card to the restaurant. Sunday, Children costume contest for age 12 and younger. http://www.jeffreysofwestfield.com/special-events.html
WESTFIELD, NJ – The Franklin Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is gearing up for its annual Pumpkin Fair to be held Saturday, October 15, from 11am to 4pm at the Franklin Elementary School, located at 700 Prospect Street in Westfield.
This Franklin School tradition promises to be an extraordinary event, featuring a haunted house, musical cookie walk, funky face painting, glitter tattoos, creepy crafts, games, prizes, gift basket raffles, live goldfish, food and baked goods galore and inflatable obstacle courses. The Pumpkin Fair takes place rain or shine, and proceeds benefit the Franklin PTO.
“Do You Know Your ABCs?” - October 2, from 2:00 to 4:00. The school bell is ringing at the Miller-Cory House Museum! The program begins with a colorful display of ABC related items – books, games, lunch boxes and more. Then, visitors are invited to the museum’s Education Center to re-enact a colonial school day, complete with hard wooden benches, slates, horn books, chores, and discipline. (Make sure you don’t get told to wear the dunce cap!) “Students” will also be taught about the many differences between 18th century education and today’s. Sunday’s program includes tours by costumed docents. In the museum’s Frazee Building, members of the Cooking Committee will demonstrate authentic open-hearth cooking using 18th century foods, techniques, and ABC recipes. Admission is $3.00 for adults and $1.00 for students; children under four are free. Call 908-232-1776 or email millercorymuseum@gmail.com for more information.
WESTFIELD, NJ – The annual Pumpkin Fair will be held once again at the Franklin Elementary School, located at 700 Prospect Street in Westfield on Saturday, October 15th, 2011 from 11am to 4pm.
The Franklin Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is gearing up for this Franklin School tradition to be an extraordinary event, filled with family fun for everyone. Enjoy the haunted house, a musical cookie walk, funky face painting, creepy crafts, games, prizes, live goldfish, raffle baskets, food and baked goods galore.
The Pumpkin Fair takes place rain or shine, and proceeds will benefit the Franklin PTO.
New Jersey Monthly published a report in this month's September 2011 issue of the Top 100 Towns to live in New Jersey. Westfield was ranked 12th best place to live, based on median home sales price, median property tax, student proficiency, crime rate and lifestyle issues.
Put on your costumes (early) and bring the kids downtown to enjoy trick or treating in the retail stores of Westfield. Shopkeepers give out candy to your little ghosts, goblins and witches while you stroll. Costume contest will follow at 3:30pm on Quimby St., which will be closed to cars during the contest. Rain or shine, For more information, call the DWC 908.789.9444.
Used Bicycle Collection, Saturday, October 8, 9 AM to 12 Noon, Rain or Shine
Board of Education Building
Walnut & Elm Streets
Westfield, NJ 07090
Sponsored by Westfield Rotary Club
Working with Pedals for Progress, the Westfield Rotary Club is collecting adult or child’s bicycles in repairable condition. A donation toward shipping costs is necessary (suggested minimum $10 per bike). All cash and material donations are fully tax deductible and a receipt will be available at the collection site. Working portable sewing machines are also being collected.
Pedals for Progress collects 5,000 to 7,000 bicycles annually and transfers this material wealth to those more needy. To date, more than 131,000 bicycles have been shipped to developing countries in Latin America, Africa, and Eastern Europe and distributed at low cost to poor working adults. These bikes provide them with reliable transportation for commuting to work, transporting produce to market, or accessing health care and other services.
For more information, contact Warren Rorden (908) 232-6807 or (908) 233-0065 wrorden@msn.com
This teen girl power movement I am Beauty, I am Love, I am Me Self-esteem drive, will be hosted by the Juanita Kelly in hopes to encourage teen girls positive self-esteem and the importance of supporting your peers. On June 25, 2011 from 1 PM EST TO 5PM EST an the Kehler Stadium Track located next to Westfield High School. All proceeds will be donated to the Juanita Kelly Foundation.
WESTFIELD, June 2011 – The Westfield United Fund has announced the nine winners in its “ABCs of Westfield” photography contest. The contest, launched in March, asked students to submit photographs of objects depicting the letters in “Westfield.” One prize was awarded for each letter.
The winners and their schools are: Dakota Williams, Roosevelt Intermediate School (W); David Mark Vaykhanskiy, Wilson School (E); Daniel Han, Jefferson (S); Aidan Supranowitz, Washington (T); Maxwell Lehnert, Franklin (F); Madeline Motyczka, Holy Trinity (I); Daniel Scalia, Holy Trinity (E); Kyle Snyder, Tamaques (L); and Lauren Lehnert, Franklin (D). The winners each received a copy of the finished picture and a $25 Westfield gift coin at the fund’s annual meeting on May 10.
“We were extremely pleased by the response and impressed by the cleverness and creativity of all the entries,” said Linda Maggio, WUF executive director. “It was clear that this contest captured the imagination of many students and their families, as we noticed by several siblings who participated. We hope all our young people continue to look at our town with such an observant and inventive eye. “
Over 100 entries were received from students in nine different Westfield schools. The images in the photographs were drawn largely from the downtown, parks and playgrounds. The final word was chosen from a representative group that best portrayed the spirit of the town.
The photography contest, a first for the Westfield United Fund, was designed to broaden awareness of the agency and its work in the community among schoolchildren and families. Copies of the finished picture will be made available as part of the fund’s 75th anniversary campaign this fall.
Since 1937, the Westfield United Fund has partnered with local social services agencies to help neighbors in need. At its 2011 annual meeting, the fund announced grants totaling over $525,000 to 18 member agencies. For additional information, please contact (908) 233-2113 or visit www.westfieldunitedfund.org.
Get out of the heat this summer and into a Music Together class! Registration has begun and classes begin July 11th. Classes run for 6 weeks and you are permitted 2 make-up classes. Please visit www.mtofunion.com for information and registration.
by Millicent K. Brody
On Saturday evening, May 14th, close to 475 people gathered to celebrate the life of Michael Kenny, who for twenty years cared for Temple Emanu-El in Westfield, as well as the Community.
Catered by Eddie Levy proprietor of Signature Creation Caterers of Linden, guests feasted on a continuous selection of drinks and hors d’oeuvres, fresh garden salad, herb-crusted, roasted chicken with wild rice, and asparagus. Dessert featured fresh fruit, a selection of delicious pastries, sorbet, coffee, and tea.
In addition to a continuous round of roasts, and toasts, guests were treated to a video of his life experiences at Temple Emanu-El. Surrounded by rounds of congratulatory praise from colleagues, friends, guests, and family, the gentle Mike Kenny was praised for truly caring about improving the world around him.
A veritable fixture at Temple Emanu-El, Mike’s organizational skills, keen sense of humor, and ability to rise to any and all occasions, regardless of the challenge, have made him one of the most beloved, and appreciated members of the Temple Emanu-El community.
Folks who know Mike appreciate the endless support he gives to folks living and working in Westfield. Some of his masterful accomplishments include: Serving on the Executive Board of the Healing Community at Fairview Lake, a camp for children and families living with HIV AIDS; He served four years as President of the AIDS Benefit Committee of New Jersey, and organized benefits for local families in need. He has raised funds for the Tourette’s Syndrome Association of New Jersey. More recently, he volunteered his time to travel to New Orleans with a group of students from Temple Emanu-El. It was their hope to assist with rebuilding the community after the hideous flood damage.
Mike Kenny lives in Westfield with his wife Nancy. He had the esteemed pleasure of sharing the celebratory event with Nancy, son Mike Jr., daughters Shauna, her husband Michael, Tiffany, and Jessica his mom Betty, members of his family, many members of the Westfield Police and Fire Department, a host of friends and members of Temple Emanu-El.
WESTFIELD, NEW JERSEY (MAY 1, 2011) – This year Holy Trinity gives an early welcome to summer, with Greek Fest 2011. Following rave reviews, Greek Fest 2011 promises to be one of New Jersey’s premier cultural events this season, sharing Hellenic hospitality, memorable cuisine, the arts, and great entertainment.
"We're back this year with a four-day celebration that truly offers something for everyone who wants a Taste of Greece. Join our big Greek family to jump-start the summer!" says Peter Ladas, Chairman of Holy Trinity Greek Fest 2011.
Greek Fest 2011 runs from Thursday evening June 2 (Family Night) through Sunday evening June 5 at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, located at 250 Gallows Hill Road in Westfield, New Jersey. The full festival schedule is available online at www.NJGreekFest.com. An exciting program highlights
cultural outreach and authentic Greek delights for members of the entire family:
• Under the Taverna Tent - several homemade Greek appetizers, full dinners, and traditional desserts made on the premises: now including freshly-made chicken, pork, or lamb gyros served hot from the grill, famous loukoumathes (dough puffs with honey), and noteworthy “baklava sundae.”
• Top-flight Entertainment - back by popular demand, New York’s own The Trojan’s (of TV and movie fame) playing live Greek music the nights of Friday June 3 and Saturday June 4, plus Greek dancing each festival night.
• Traditions in the Arts – Greek culinary arts are featured each day through cooking demonstrations in “Yiayia’s Kitchen,” including on Saturday June 4 by famed chef Paul Delios (who has appeared on foodU.com with chefs Guy Fieri and Sarah Moulton); educator Fotios Stamos (wine critic, Odyssey Magazine) will lead a class on Greek wines and multiple wine tastings. Hellenic arts and crafts will be sold in the “Agora”, and a scheduled tour of
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church will feature Byzantine iconography.
For younger children, Greek Fest 2011 offers the Kid Zone “one price” play ticket for all amusements, available for $12 from 5-9 PM Thursday June 2 and Friday June 3, $15 from 1-9 PM Saturday June 4, and $12 from 1-6 PM Sunday June 5.
"Our community broadly reaches out to friends and neighbors in several ways. We hope you will come to visit our beautiful church and experience our culture and faith," encourages Fr. Peter Delvizis, Presiding Priest of Holy Trinity.
Prize: A Classroom Jeopardy! for the teacher; a $200 shopping spree to Learning Express for the child
Dates: Entries will be accepted May 1 – June 31, 2011
Details:
- Essay Topic: “Do you have an extra-special teacher? Write a one page essay describing what makes your teacher wonderful and enter it for the chance to win!”
- Eligibility: The contest is open to all legal U.S. residents enrolled in a state certified educational curriculum program, equivalent to grades Kindergarten through grade 8 on May 1, 2011, except the panel of judges or employees of Educational Insights and Learning Express Inc., their affiliates, retailers, subsidiaries, agents, advertising and public relations agencies, and the immediate families and/or household members of each.
- Judging Criteria: Essays will be judged based on earnestness, creativity, and the merit of the teacher as explained by the student.
Winners: Three winners will be selected by a panel of teachers. The winning teacher will be shipped The Classroom Jeopardy! and the winning student will receive a $200 Learning Express Toys gift card.
How to Enter: For more details and to pick up your entry form visit Learning Express Toys of Westfield.
Learning Express of Westfield
184 Elm Street
Westfield, NJ 07090
908-233-1381
Sheep to Shawl Festival (Miller Cory House Museum, 614 Mountain Avenue, Westfield) - May 1, 2011; 1:00 to 4:00. Demonstration of sheep shearing by master shearer as it was done in the 18th century; spinning, weaving, knitting; butter churning and colonial "laundry day" demonstrations; children's crafts to make and take home - tin piercing and grow-a-flower; maypole dance; colonial games; bake sale and herb plant sale; free homemade cookies and lemonade. Event takes place rain or shine; no reservations necessary. Admission: $3.00 adults; $1.00 students; children under four free. Call 908-232-1776 for information.
March 14, 2011 -- The Downtown Westfield Corporation (DWC) has redesigned their website www.westfieldtoday.com for the commercial/ business district of Westfield after more than 15 years of a destination web presence. The new site gives easier and more graphical access to news, promotions and events which are taking place in downtown Westfield.
The site makes content easy to find and organizes it in a way that people want to view. There are new buttons for ‘Grand Openings’, ‘Food & Wine’, and “Best Bets’. Jamie Lemberg, Online Marketing Manager for the DWC, commented, “Through usage reports from our email newsletter which regularly features these columns, we know that these new categories are most interesting to our readers.”
While the old site featured information about popular downtown annual events, such as the Sweet Sounds Downtown Jazz Festival and the 5K Pizza & Extravaganza , these events are now featured more prominently on the home page. The site also has an events calendar of all upcoming events.
“We tried to design it with a more modern and graphical magazine look, said Beth Brenner, DWC’s Asst. Executive Director. “ Before it was very informational, but now it’s also pleasant to navigate the site.”
Westfield businesses are encouraged to add their own listing page to the site. This community feature allows stores, restaurants and organizations to not only have a presence, but issue their own news and promotions directly on the site. While this was always the case, this ability has been simplified, giving the downtown businesses easier visibility online. Businesses can also link back to their own web sites from their listing page.
The Rialto Theatre is prominent on the home page and movie times have been automated for greater reliability. A new Arts & Entertainment section features an array of theater and concert venues in town.
Other content areas which are now easy to access include information for those looking to open a new business and view available commercial space, volunteer opportunities, parking information, driving directions, and town history.
Sherry Cronin, Executive Director of the DWC, added “We are pleased to bring a more robust web site to the business community. Our job is to promote the downtown, and this new web site as well as our downtown Facebook page, helps bring more online presence to our businesses.”
The Downtown Westfield Corporation (DWC), formed in 1996, is the management entity of the Special Improvement District. It is governed by a seven member Board of Directors, has two full-time and one part-time staff members, and numerous volunteers serving on Design, Promotion, Economic Development and Organization committees. The vision of the DWC is for Westfield, NJ to be a preferred destination where people want to live, work, and visit. Westfield is also honored to be one of 26 designated Main Street Communities in New Jersey , a program of the National Trust’s National Main Street Center . For the latest happenings, event information, and promotional offers from Westfield businesses, check out www.WestfieldToday.com
Photo caption: WestfieldToday.com, a website of the Downtown Westfield Corporation, has a new look.
Several parents had recently been to the Town Book Store lamenting the fact that recent budget cuts have limited the funding available for new books for their child’s school library. This got owner Ann Laird thinking about how The Town Book Store might be able to help. She is offering a program where 10% of every purchase made at The Town Book Store by anyone in any Westfield public school family will go towards a credit to be used by that school’s librarian to purchase new books at her store for their school library. That is a great win win for everybody! Shop for books at Town Book Store to raise money for your child's school library! 270 E. Broad St., 908.233.3535. www.townbookstore.com
“The Westfield Affair” is hosting its first Bridal Event of 2011 in downtown Westfield, on Sunday, March 6 (snow date: March 13) from 12:00 noon until 5:00 pm at The James Ward Mansion. The first event, in September 2010, was a huge success and attracted a sell-out crowd.
A gathering of the many wedding professionals in the area, this unique experience will include samples, displays, demonstrations and raffles from specialty vendors that anyone planning a wedding or other occasion would need.
Graciously sponsored by the beautiful James Ward Mansion at 169 East Broad Street, the day will feature food, dessert and wine tastings, and highly valued raffle giveaways, including a free honeymoon at Breezes Grand Resort and Spa in Negril, Jamaica for a lucky couple. Admission is $5 per person payable at the door and parking is free.
The event coordinator is Amy Mankin of Mademoiselle in Westfield. Said Mankin, “We have so many specialty stores in and around Westfield that can offer a bride high quality services and merchandise, with a personal touch. I wanted to put all of them under one roof to show off the variety of what we have to offer. What makes this event so different from other bridal shows is the venue. The James Ward Mansion is the ultimate background for an elegant and intimate shopping experience. We want to invite brides or anyone planning an affair to come and take advantage of a very unique opportunity.
For more information and to RSVP visit www.thewestfieldaffair.com. The first 50 RSVPs will receive a fabulous giftbag at the door.
Restaurant Week will be underway in Westfield, so participants can enjoy a 2-course, price fixed $10 lunch or $20 dinner either before or after “The Westfield Affair.” Reservations are recommended; please call the restaurants directly to reserve.
DIGIPLEX DESTINATIONS ANNOUNCES FREE SHOWS FOR OPENING WEEKEND, FEBRUARY 19TH & 20TH.
DIGIPLEX DESTINATIONS, IN COLLABORATION WITH THE MAYO PERFORMING ARTS CENTER AND THE WESTFIELD MEMORIAL LIBRARY FOUNDATION, PROUDLY ANNOUNCES ITS FIRST DIGITAL ALTERNATIVE CONTENT SERIES. KIDTOONS IS A CHARMING CONTINUOUS PROGRAM OF G-RATED FILMS DESIGNED FOR CHILDREN AGES 3-7.
THE KIDTOONS PROGRAM WILL PLAY AT THE DIGIPLEX RIALTO THEATRE OF WESTFIELD EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY MORNING BEGINNING FEBRUARY 26TH & 27TH. ALL TICKETS ARE $3.50 AND FEATURES WILL CHANGE REGULARLY. FIRST REGULAR FEATURES WILL BE “TONKA: TOUGH TRUCK” & “BARBIE: A FAIRY SECRET”.
TO KICK-OFF THIS SERIES, THE DIGIPLEX RIALTO THEATRE WILL PROVIDE 4 FREE SHOWS! COME JOIN FOR 2 MORNINGS FULL OF FUN ON SATURDAY 2/19 & SUNDAY 2/20 INCLUDING FREE KIDTOONS MOVIES, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, GIVEAWAYS, SNACKS, TONS OF FUN AND LOTS MORE!
SATURDAY 2/19/11:
10:00AM CANDYLAND
12:00PM MY LITTLE PONY
SUNDAY 2/20/11:
10:00AM CARE BEARS
12:00PM MY LITTLE PONY
Doors open at 9am for balloons, character greetings, and live MPAC entrance performances.
FOR ANY FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL 908-396-1367.
Join Westfield Fitness for a night of fitness and fun as we fight hunger in the Garden State. More families then ever are finding themselves struggling to simply put food on the table. We are commited to helping families get through these tough times and have a joyous Thanksgiving.
- Yes, 24 straight hours: a 24-hour marathon of personal training- participate between the hours of noon Friday through noon Saturday.
- Experience WFS training for the cost of 4 cans of food (or any four non-perishable food items whether in a box, bag, or other container). Sessions normally cost $45-$120/hour.
- All night special group sessions including Kettlebells, TRX, M.I.T. and more.
- Special theme hours, like Club WFS and Happy Hour. Come to train but stay for fun.
- All money and food is being collected for the Community Food Bank of NJ.
FIGHT HUNGER, GET FIT AND HAVE FUN!
Pre-registration is required. Sign-up today!
There are many events around Westfield in celebration of Halloween. Whether you want to trick-or-treat downtown, enter a costume contest, attend the Westfield Symphony Orchestra concert, visit the Great Pumpkin Fair at Franklin School, or pick your own pumpkins and get a hayride at Williams Nursery, there's something for everyone. (Photo courtesy of Dave Williams.)
At Williams Nursery located at 524 Springfield Avenue, enjoy hayrides, pony rides, pick your own pumpkins every Saturday and Sunday through October 30, from 10am to 5pm. For information and entry forms for the 11th Annual Williams Nursery Scarecrow Contest, visit www.williams-nursery.com.
On Saturday, October 16th from 11am to 4pm, the Great Pumpkin Fair returns once again to Franklin School and offers family fun for everyone. Visit the haunted house, play games, win a goldfish, face painting, crafts, obstacle course, prizes, crafts, bake sale, gift basket raffles, the Fun Bus and more. Rain or shine at Franklin Elementary School, 700 Prospect St.
On Saturday, October 30 at 8pm, the Westfield Symphony Orchestra performs Monster Music to Lon Cheney in the classic film Phantom of the Opera at The Presbyterian Church. A Halloween Costume Contest will be held as well, so wear your costumes to the performance! For tickets visit www.westfieldsymphony.org.
On Sunday, October 31, the ever-popular Downtown Trick-or-Treat event will return from 11am to 3pm, sponsored by the Downtown Westfield Corporation (DWC). Trick-or-Treaters will be welcomed in all businesses displaying an orange "Trick-or-Treat" poster in the window. At 3:30 pm, Sunday, October 31, the DWC will host the annual costume contest on Quimby Street with wonderful prizes being offered by sponsoring businesses.
The Y's Mens Halloween Parade and Costume Contest has been suspended this year so that the organization can focus their resources on the upcoming Annual Christmas Tree Sale at the Elm St. Field. They invite you to be part of the Downtown Trick or Treat and Costume Contest.
On Sunday, October 24, the Miller-Cory House Museum will be offering the Halloween Hocus Pocus event ideal for young children. For more information, call the Miller-Cory House Museum at 908.232.1776, 614 Mountain Ave.
As the start of school fast approaches, don't forget our local stores in Downtown Westfield where you can shop conveniently for your school supplies, backpacks, new shoes and clothing.
For School Supplies: Baron's Drug Store 243 E. Broad St., 908.232.6680; CVS/pharmacy 210 South Ave. W., 908.654.8333; Staples Copy & Print Shop 225 E. Broad St., 908.232.4201; Stop & Shop 219-233 Elm St. 908.232.1292; Walgreens 260 North Ave. E., 908.232.5100.
For Backpacks: American Shoe Repair & Luggage 126 E. Broad St., 908.232.9522; GAP 207 E. Broad St., 908.654.8260; GAP Kids 234 E. Broad St., 908.233.2723; The Children's Place 177 E. Broad St., 908.789.7542
New Shoes: Aerosoles 161 E. Broad St. 908.232.2963; Castle Bootery 52 Elm Street, 908.233.7172; GAP 207 E. Broad St., 908.654.8260; GAP Kids 234 E. Broad St., 908.233.2723; Lord & Taylor 609 North Ave. W., 908.233.6600; Randal's Shoes 82 Elm St., 908.232.3680; Scott's Shoes of Westfield 109 Quimby, 908.233.5678; Sole 201 E. Broad St., 908.654.7800; The Running Company 17 Elm St., 908.654.9900
Clothing: Anthology 125 Quimby St., 908.233.8255; Banana Republic 137 Central Ave., 908.301.1553; GAP 207 E. Broad St., 908.654.8260; GAP Kids 234 E. Broad St., 908.233.2723; Esprit 151 E. Broad St., 908.233.7878; Funk and Standard 111 Central Avenue, 908.654.8707; Janie and Jack 200 E. Broad St. 908.232.3721; Lord & Taylor 609 North Ave. W., 908.233.6600; Lucky Brand Jeans 253 E. Broad St. 908.518.1794; Melinda Lane 208 Lenox Ave., 908.233.7033; Menina 27 E. Broad St., 908.654.0358; Nirvana 218 E. Broad St., 908.232.5774; Splash 15 E. Broad St., 908.228.2381; The Children's Place 177 E. Broad St., 908.789.7542.
Cell Phones & Accessories:
AT&T 200 Central Ave., 908.301.1590; Verizon Wireless 109 North Ave. West, 908.789.1201.
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.
Mark Your Calendars ...
Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Book #5
THE UGLY TRUTH
Released November 9, 2010
"To me, the fifth book is the linchpin of the series," said author Jeff Kinney in a statement. "Since Greg Heffley is a cartoon character but also a literary character, I've always wondered if he should grow up or stay in a state of arrested development forever. This book answers that question once and for all."
Pre-Order Your Copy today...
Call 908.233.3535 or stop by 270 E. Broad St.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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!
Join Westfield Symphony on a fantasy-filled and educational musical journey for the entire family! Featuring an exciting display of instrumental virtuosity, and narrated by former New York Giants Super Bowl 21 champion, Bill Ard, WSO’s performance of A Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra is an exciting introduction to orchestral music. The concert will also present the Grand Finale of the Youth Stars of Tomorrow Tri-State Concerto Competition where three exemplary young musical protégés will compete for a grand prize of $3000. The audience will even have the opportunity to vote and participate in the selection of the winner.
The concert will be held at 4pm at the Presbyterian Church in Westfield. Arrive before the concert for a free interactive program with Dr. Barbara Thomson. Learn about the music, meet musicians, and get an up close view of selected musical instruments.
SPECIAL OFFER: ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS ONLY $5, MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS $10.
For further information: 908-232-9400, wso@westfieldsymphony.org, or go to www.westfieldsymphony.org
Westfield's premiere boutique personal training studio will, for the first time, offer a small group summer athletic development program, designed specifically for soccer players. Athletes who have trained with WFS have gone on such prestigious programs as St. Benedict's and Seton Hall Prep; Fordham, Elon and Brown Universities.
Applications are being accepted now. Space is limited. Please call or email the studio for an information package.
For The Love of the Irish - St. Patrick's Day is March 17th!
- St. Patrick's Day by Anne Rockwell (New Children's picture book)
- Magic Tree House #43: Leprechaun in Late Winter (Mary Pope Osborne's latest)
- Magic Tree House Research Guide: Leprechauns and Irish Folklore by Mary Pope Osborne
- A Course Called Ireland: A Long Walk in Search of a Country, a Pint, and the Next Tee by Tom Coyne ( just out in paperback)
- McCarthy's Bar: A Journey of Discovery in Ireland by Pete McCarthy (#1 Irish Bestseller)
- The Irish Americans: A History by Jay P. Dolan
- Shannon by Frank Delaney (now in paperback). The acclaimed author of "Ireland" and "Tipperary" returns once more to his home terrain with "Shannon," a timeless account of salvation, belief, and the healing power of discovering one's roots. Annotation: The acclaimed author of "Ireland" and "Tipperary" returns once more to his home terrain with "Shannon," a timeless account of salvation, belief, and the healing power of discovering one's roots.
- An Irish Country Girl by Patrick Taylor (his latest installment that began with Irish Country Doctor)
Mystery Writer, Peggy Ehrhart, March 6th from 2-4 PM Sweet Man is Gone The plot, with its surprising and dramatic climax, will keep readers guessing until the last few pages. Kirkus Reviews raves, "A blues singer turns detective when her guitarist's death is ruled a suicide. Maxx's debut has a real feel for the bar-music scene and is a gutsy, believable sleuth" and the Newark Star Ledger says, "blues riffs that are the next best thing to hearing them."
Connie McNamara, March 13th from 11-1 PM A History of Mountainside: 1945-2006: It Was Only Yesterday
McNamara provides a comprehensive look at this tight knit community that prides itself on its bucolic surroundings and its caring and cohesiveness. She recounts anecdotes, passed on by town elders, of Mountainside's prestigious historic architecture, the establishment of the nationally renowned Children's Specialized Hospital and the Badgley House, where Revolutionary residents concealed their valuables from the British.
The annual newsletter is now available online. This beautiful 4-page report highlights the efforts by the Downtown Westfield Corporation and it's Main Street Volunteers. This newsletter was distributed in the Star Ledger, Suburban News, and in The Westfield Leader with over 80,000 copies printed.
Click here to read the publication.
The Westfield Adult School begins its spring 2010 semester on Monday, March 1, with many exciting new class offerings, as well as a host of returning favorites. Whether you want to understand international investing or learn how to “Go Green,” hoop dance, or make delicious hors d’oeuvres, the school has something for everyone. There are over 100 classes, from one-session classes such as "Appetizers of India," “Interior Redesign,” “Getting to Know Your Digital Camera,” “Graphology,” and “Chocolate Fun,” to eight-session dance, fitness, and language classes. The Adult School also offers CPR and First Aid classes, as well as Driver Education, and SAT and PSAT Preparation classes.
You can view all of our courses, from Architecture to Zumba, and register on our new website, www.WestfieldAdultSchool.com, which accepts credit card payments. You can also register by mail or in person in the Westfield High School main office on Monday evenings throughout the semester, with payment by check or cash. Before your first class, pick up your free Westfield Adult School tote bag outside the main office! Call 908-232-4050 for additional information.
The February Issue of Westfield Today, Downtown Westfield's email newsletter is now available. Click here to read the latest issue.
The Westfield Service League’s Thrift Shop will hold its annual end-of-winter Bag Day on Saturday, February 6 from 9 AM -4 PM.
On Bag Day, customers may purchase a grocery sized bag for $5.00 and fill it to the brim with clothing, toys, books, shoes, and household items. There is no limit to the number of bags that can be purchased and filled. The week following the sale, the shop’s shelves and racks will be stocked with spring and summer merchandise.
For further information, please call the Thrift Shop at 908-233-2530.
For Ana Beall’s:
Valentine’s Weekend isn’t JUST for lovers… Bring your best friends, your family, or, yes, your sweetheart, and enjoy our special Valentine’s weekend Brunch. Or, make plans for our special prix fixe Dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings, or if you like, just come by with friends and share a few “small plates” and good conversation! For details on Valentine’s weekend menus and to make reservations, call (908) 264-4221.
Saturday, February 10, 2010
2:00PM
The Town Book Store in Westfield will host a Meet & Greet for Jenn Topper, author of 29 Jobs and A Million Lies on Saturday, February 20, 2010 from 2-4 PM. Dark, twisted, and outrageous, this is not the story of your all-American girl seeking glory and success, but a glimpse at counterculture's underbelly and Topper’s attempts to succeed within that world. From demented B-movie, roach-infested film production offices chock full of freakish characters to the Cannes Film Festival; from starting a punk rock record label to its hard but inevitable crash; from a grimy, Greenwich Village restaurant kitchen to failed attempts at joining the Navy, you have to ask, “What’s a nice girl from the suburbs doing all of this dirty work for, anyway?”
29 Jobs and a Million Lies is the gut-wrenching, self-deprecating account of how ambition to stand out was wiped out by clumsy choices, immaturity and self-defeating righteousness. Energized to prove to the doubters that she could succeed despite the unorthodox approach, this litany of boneheaded decisions portrays how the author painfully hurled heart and soul into a long trail of draining pursuits, failing so often that success was invisible. 29 Jobs and A Million Lies is a post-GenX novel, except it's true, and in the vein of Sarah Vowell, Chuck Klosterman, and Dave Eggers.
A resident of Highlands, NJ, Jenn Topper is currently a corporate sellout but her two perfect little boys don’t seem to mind one bit.
Meet Jenn at The Town Book Store located at 270 East Broad Street in Westfield (corner of East Broad and Elmer Streets). If you are unable to attend this event, feel free to call The Town Book Store at (908) 233-3535 to reserve an autographed copy.
You already have your perfect match, now you'll have your perfect scent. Come Friday night February 12th, 7-9pm. Your ticket includes:
* create a custom scented hydrating body mist from Bath Junkie
* experience a stimulating hand massage by in touch therapeutic massage
* savor coffee from Rockn' Joe
* enjoly desserts from Bovella's Pastry Shoppe
$15 per couple, $10 per person. 221 North Avenue East, Westfield NJ 908.264.8633. Call to RSVP for your spot!
Rockn’ Joe Coffeehouse + Bistro…. is proud to announce its exclusive offering of Belgian Waffles from NYC's now famous Wafels and Dinges.
Belgium native Thomas DeGeest is known as "The Waffles Guy" to most New Yorkers. For a number of years now, he’s been offering his Liege Wafles at various locations in NYC from his now famous canary yellow “Wafels and Dinges” truck and as of 2009 he selected Rockn’ Joe Westfield as the only other distributor of these now famous waffles. Recently, world famous celebrity chef Bobby Flay challenged Thomas to a “Throwdown” for ultimate bragging rights as to who makes the best Belgian Waffles.
Of course, we never doubted the outcome, but see the results for yourself on the Food Network’s Belgian Waffles Throwdown on Saturday, February 6th at 7:00pm. Then, come in and try one for yourself… and experience what a true ultimate Belgian Waffle is all about!!!
