I’d like to share with you a brief recap of last weeks events and share some really great things coming up that might be of interest to you and your family. 

This past weekend, I was part of the inaugural PAL football mini-camp for kids with special needs. I joined Mayor Brindle and Recreation Director Megan Schaffer for the kick-off. The event would not have happened without the efforts of the Town of Westfield NJ Police Department, and Westfield PAL organizers Jeff Russo and Kelly Hantman.

Special thanks and appreciation go out to the numerous teen volunteers who were each paired up with a child. It was a great event.  What makes these events so special to me is seeing Ward 4 neighbors helping out - shout out to John Klimaszewski and Steve Guberer. 

Equally as impressive is the vision and leadership of Kelly Hantman who started the Girls Flag Football league.  Begun two-years ago, the league now has over 220 participants as well as a WHS Girls Flag Football club team. I am so pleased that my efforts to create equitable resources for girls sports have helped pave the way for teams like this one.

This weekend promises to be equally as exciting. I hope you can attend one of the many events including the tree planting at Jefferson school on Friday to commemorate Arbor Day. Westfield has been nominated as Tree City USA for the third year in a row. The Tree Preservation Committee and Public Works submit information annually for this honor.   As Acting Mayor, I will be reading a proclamation as well. 

Westfield's Mental Health Council's CAKE fair is this Sunday starting at 10:30 am with the walk as well as the fair starting at 11 am, at Mindowaskin Park.  

Additionally, on May 11th from 5 pm to 9 pm is Westfield's Girls' Night Out. This is a great event that helps to support our downtown. 

Finally, The Westfield Public Arts Commission (WPAC) is having their Third Annual Through the Lens Photography Exhibit. This year's theme is "Movement." Artists are encouraged to explore photographically what movement looks like through their eyes and the camera lens, and are invited to use their own creative interpretation of the theme.

The WPAC will select photographs to be displayed in Downtown Westfield. The deadline for submissions is April 30, 2023.

For more details, or to submit your photos, visit westfieldnj.gov/through-the-lens.

Always wishing you the best,