Listings for: Entertainment

The New Jersey Workshop for the Arts, established in 1972, provides music lessons on all instruments and voice taught by an outstanding professional staff. The school also offers musical theater and drama classes, art and fencing lessons.

The New Jersey Workshop for the Arts is also home to the Westfield Summer Workshop. Students attending the summer program have the opportunity to attend an array of classes varying from music to magic. Class offerings include arts & crafts, communications,science, dance, drama, kaleidoscope, music, and musical theater.

Experience kettlebells the WFS way without losing a day at the beach! Learn fundamental kettlebell skills then use them in exciting circuits designed to be demanding but safe. Perfect for anyone interested in adding KBs to their workout. Registration and pre-payment is required. Anniversary special: Westfield Fitness is celebrating the Second Anniversary of its first client on 8/8/08. To say thank you to the community that made it possible, we are offering the workshop for last year's price of $35!

Since its founding in 1969, the Westfield Historical Society has pledged itself to preserving, interpreting and encouraging community interest in the history of Westfield. The Westfield Historical Society offers a variety of lunchtime programs, tours, and personalized research assistance. Visit the archives and museum at 302 Elm Street, 3rd floor. See the current information on the Reeve House project at the link below. We welcome new members!

 

www.westfieldtoday.com/history

The ever-popular Downtown Trick-or-Treat event took place on Sunday, October 25, sponsored by the Downtown Westfield Corporation (DWC). Trick-or-Treaters enjoyed treats from our downtown businesses. In addition, over 400 kids paraded in the costume contest on Quimby Street and 58 winners were awarded wonderful prizes from sponsoring businesses. Entertainment was providede by local resident and entertainer Michael Doyle. The DWC would like to thank all the downtown businesses who provided the candy and prizes, the volunteers who helped judge the event, and all the families who came out in support of these Halloween festivities. We appreciate the support and turnout and hope to see you again next year.    

Bath Junkie recently opened at 221 North Ave. E. in the former location of The Farmhouse Store.  Please stop by and welcome Katie Cantor to our shopping and dining district.  The official grand opening/ribbon cutting is scheduled for Sat, Nov. 7^th at 11 am.  It would be great if you could join us.  Katie is doing a good job of cross-promoting her new business with others in the district.

Come take advantage of the Fall Dinner Special, offered Monday through Thursday, now through the end of the year.

 

Your Choice:

Soup - cream of broccoli/ Pasta Fagiole or Salad - Mista Della Casa.

 

& Your Choice of an Entree:

Choose from Penne, Spaghetti, Rigatoni - Tomato Basil or Ala Vodka, or Chicken - Francese or Parmesan.

 

Ice Tea or Lemonade

 

Please no substitutions or sharing.

 

During the month of November, Town Book Store will be raffling off 11 book bags full of great books. You may enter once every time you visit during the month of November. Check any and all that interested you and stop by to enter.

 

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days Bundle (1)
Clifford the Big Red Dog Bundle (1)
Children's Assorted Hardcovers (2)
Sookie Stackhouse/True Blood Slipcase (1)
Deluxe Penguin Classics (1)
Adult Assorted Hardcovers (3)
Indiebound Calendar & Advance Readers (2)

 

 

~November 7 from 11-1 PM~ Judy Mandel Judy Mandel Replacement Child: A Memoir A plane crash and then the impossible choice a mother must make-the death of a child that leaves a hole in the family that threatens to tear it apart. In a great act of hope, the parents give birth to a "replacement child," born to heal wounds and provide a "salve for the burns." This child was Judy Mandel, and this is the story behind the 1952 plane crash in Elizabeth, New Jersey. 
 
When Judy finally learns of this story, years later, she begins to uncover the complex and painful layers of her family and the relationships with her parents, and sister. It isn't until Judy has a child of her own that she truly understands the sacrifice, the pain, and the truth.
 
A story of love and transformation, Replacement Child reveals the everyday realities behind so many tragic headlines, as you follow one woman's brave path to recovery-sometimes through laughter, sometimes through tears-as she embraces the love that allows her to finally forgive. Replacement Child is not only a story of heartbreak, and survival, but a lesson to us all about the brevity of life and the power of love. 
  
        ~November 14 from 11-1 PM~  Ann Tufariello   The Breakthrough This young adult book begins with thirteen-year old Jack being plucked from the clutches of a riptide by his older brother, Michael. When Michael slides into a coma, Jack can't live with the guilt. He wanders to a carnival and sneaks into a hot air balloon basket. Without warning, the balloon lifts into the air, transporting Jack to the fourth dimensional planet of Venus. When a Venusian gives Jack a magic crystal to heal his brother, Jack thinks his problems are solved-but they are just beginning! Soon, Jack finds himself trapped on Pluto, a planet controlled by the tyrant Danko. Danko learns of the crystal and will stop at nothing to seize it and ultimately control Earth. 

          ~November 14 from 2-4 PM~  Jeannette Hopkins The Ladybug Waltz  This signing will wrap up a week of readings and workshops, Ms. Hopkins will have conducted in the Westfield school system. Capture the magic of a ladybug's ball with crimson colored gowns and antennae tiaras and all the starlight your child can imagine. The Ladybug Waltz is a charming story told in the form of a waltz that allows music, art and writing to connect.
~November 21 from 2-4 PM~ Jeff Markowitz It is Beginning to Look a Lot Like Murder   At odds with her new boss, tabloid reporter Cassie O'Malley finds herself covering the shopping mall at Christmas, an assignment she wants nothing to do with. When Big Mack, a loan shark, turns up dead in the men's room, his throat slit, mall security guard, Oliver Berryhill senses an opportunity for fifteen minutes of fame and spins a heroic tale of their confrontation in the men's room. The police are skeptical, but Big Mack's son is determined to avenge his father's murder. 

Barely a week later, a second body turns up in the employee break room and Cassie finds herself covering a double homicide. In a race against time, Cassie must solve the double murder before a third victim is killed in this wildly funny mystery.

Over 400 children paraded in the costume contest on Quimby Street and 58 winners were awarded wonderful prizes from sponsoring businesses. Check out these great photos, available for viewing and purchase.

The year was 1934: America was in the midst of "The Great Depression," Good Bye, Mr. Chips topped the bestseller lists, and paperback books were still on the horizon when The Town Book Store opened its doors on East Broad Street in Westfield. Today, websites and "big box" stores dominate the retail landscape, "virtual" books can be read digitally, and another economic crisis is gripping the nation. But through it all, The Town Book Store is still going strong in downtown Westfield.
 
This November, The Town Book Store will celebrate 75 years of good, old-fashioned bookselling with a month of raffles, giveaways, and author signings to mark its diamond anniversary.  The last independent bookstore in Union County according to the American Booksellers Association, the shop has been serving Westfield and neighboring communities through three-quarters of a century, six owners and two locations.  
 
"In today's rapidly changing retail environment, The Town Book Store remains one constant where shoppers can find a first-rate literary selection with friendly, personalized service in an attractive, convenient setting," says Anne Laird, the store's current owner and herself a native Westfielder. "For this little gem of a store to be celebrating its diamond anniversary is truly a testimony to the loyal customers who have supported us for so many years. This celebration is our way of saying a heartfelt, 'Thanks.'"
 
According to the original business ledgers on display in the shop, The Town Book Store first opened its doors on September 4, 1934. After operating from the same address for 72 years, the store relocated across the street in 2007 to 270 E. Broad Street, the site of Westfield's first library. The new location at the eastern gateway to Westfield's vibrant downtown offers easier parking, ample window space and greater visibility for the store. A signboard inviting customers to "Nurture Your Community: Shop Local," has garnered positive reaction from shoppers.  
 
Though modest in size, the store's inventory is well-edited and caters to the interests of its customers. Individualized services like fast turnaround on special orders, friendly, helpful staff, author signings, out-of-print book searches, book club discounts, and free gift wrapping are part of the shop's appeal. And while occasional blockbusters like the Harry Potter series and Dan Brown's latest have been a boon to struggling booksellers, Ms. Laird says it is avid readers and parents with young children who have been the store's mainstay throughout the years.

The November celebration comes just as the store is stocking up for the holiday season. Among the special giveaways Ms. Laird has planned are many items donated by publishers, including a "Diary of Wimpy Kid" bundle with a T-shirt, life-size cutout and a copy of the latest book. Customers are invited to stop by the store to enter drawings throughout the month and peruse the holiday selection. For store hours and directions, please contact The Town Book Store at (908) 233-3535 or visit their website at www.townbookstore.com  

 

Photo: Anne Laird, owner of the Town Book Store in Westfield, displays the shop's original business ledgers from its opening in 1934.   

 

The ever-popular Downtown Trick-or-Treat & Costume Contest, sponsored by the Downtown Westfield Corporation (DWC) took place on Sunday, October 25, 2009.  Almost 2,000 trick-or-treaters enjoyed treats from our downtown businesses from 11 am to 3 pm.  An estimated 400 children paraded in the costume contest on Quimby Street, and 59 winners were awarded wonderful prizes from sponsoring businesses.  Entertainment was provided by local resident and entertainer Michael Doyle. 

 

Beth Brenner, Assistant Executive Director of the DWC stated “We were really happy with the level of participation this year.  Our businesses provided great prizes and creative categories for the costume contest.”  The following is a listing of the winners from each sponsoring category: 

 

Downtown Business Sponsor	Category	Winner Name	City
Treasure Cove Watersports	Best Aquaman	Peter Youssef	Westfield, NJ
Castle Bootery Inc.	Best Ballerina	Emma Sylvester	Mountainside, NJ
Boogie's Tickets	Best Boogie	Jean & John Fei	Scotch Plains, NJ
Coldstone Creamery of Westfield	Best Creation	Conleth Gorham & Caoimhe	Mountainside, NJ
Trader Joe's	Best Food	Bridget Davis & Audrey Davis	Fanwood, NJ
Capital One Bank	Best Football Costume	Gianna Fernances	Roselle Park, NJ
Ghost of Lancaster Past	Best Ghost	Mario Rodrigues	Westfield, NJ
Farmhouse Store	Best Handmade	Max Martin	Westfield, NJ
GAP Kids	Best Icon	Luke and Matt Sylvester	Mountainside, NJ
Sadie	Best Mummy	Kathlene Horvath	Westfield, NJ
Limani Seafood Grill	Best Pirate of the Sea	Gabriele Zhang	Westfield, NJ
Limani Seafood Grill	Best Pirate of the Sea	Nicolas Lutsky	Westfield, NJ
Rockn' Joe Coffeehouse + Bistro	Best Rocker or Rock Diva	Olivia Ruhnke	Westfield, NJ
Knit-A-Bit	Best Sewn	Katelyn Gaulin	Fanwood, NJ
Westfield Fitness	Best Superhero	Jonathan Zhang	Belle Meade, NY
Ana Beall's Tea Room	Best Tea Party Costume	Ally Vikovic	Scotch Plains, NJ
Melinda Lane	Best Witch	Julia Hollosi	Westfield, NJ
Poppyfields Home	Best Wizard of Oz	Mike Bidiak	Garwood, NJ
Cool Vines	Coolest Costume	Luke and Abigail Mokrzycki	Westfield, NJ
Manhattan Bagel	Costume with the Most Holes	Logan Catalfamo	Roselle Park, NJ
Brunner Opticians	Cutest Animal	Madelin & Samantha Smok	Westfield, NJ
Staples Copy & Print Shop	Easiest Costume	Brooke and Briana Dreher	Colonia, NJ
Ahrre's Coffee Roastery	Edgiest	Garrett Daniels	Scotch Plains, NJ
Subway	Freshest	Jasper Lemberg	Westfield, NJ
Five Guys Burgers and Fries	Meatiest Costume	Frank Martielli	Middlesex, NJ
Just Bead Yourself	Most "Beadiful"	Lilly Demerdjieva	Westfield, NJ
Anais Boutique	Most "Jazzy" Fashionista	Andriana Greberis	Holmdel, NJ
Paw House of Westfield	Most "Paw"fectly Frightful	Sean Vikovis	Westfield, NJ
Evalyn Dunn's Gallery	Most Artistic	Julia Romano	Westfield, NJ
Running Company	Most Athletic	Alexa Luther	Paterson, NJ
Michael Kohn Jewelers	Most Brilliant	Marlo Avidon	Westfield, NJ
Bath Junkie	Most Bubbly	Darian Napodano	Greenbrook, NJ
Town Book Store	Most Characteristic	Hannah Everett	Westfield, NJ
Rita's Water Ice	Most Chilling	Ethen Jaffey	Westfield, NJ
Downtown Westfield Corporation	Most Colorful	Liam Tucker	Westfield, NJ
Randal's Shoes	Most Comfortable or Most Laid Back	Nick Youssef	Westfield, NJ
Learning Express Toys	Most Creative Toy	Avi Ash	Westfield, NJ
J. Winthrop & Co.	Most Dazzling	Kristina Hollosi	Westfield, NJ
Robert Treat Deli	Most Delicious	Sophia Perone	Greenbrook, NJ
Maria Candida's Hair Forum	Most Enchanted	Kristen Hughes	Westfield, NJ
Success Express	Most Fairy	Annabella Pugliese	Fanwood, NJ
Douglas Cosmetics	Most Glamorous	Alivia Clark	Springfield, NJ
Citibank	Most International	Stephanie Muenzen	Fanwood, NJ
Flower Zone	Most Magnificent	Christina Romano	Springfield, NJ
New Jersey Workshop for the Arts	Most Musical	Whitney Rees	Westfield, NJ
Sole	Most Soul	Desi Garcia	Union, NJ
Tamar Jewelers	Most Sparkly	Jane Guglielmo	Westfield, NJ
Tinga Taqueria	Most Spicy	Abby Germinder	Fanwood, NJ
Esprit	Most Spirited	Nicole Badillo Oliva/Juliette Orlando	Westfield, NJ
Xocolatz Restaurant & Grill	Most Tasteful	Josie James	Cranford, NJ
Thinka Dinka	Most Toyrific	Rebecca White	Westfield, NJ
Ferraro's	Most Traditional	Lauren Sullivan	Westfield, NJ
Lord & Taylor	Most Trendy	Nicole Muenzen	Fanwood, NJ
Lord & Taylor	Most Trendy	Gavin Higgins	Westfield, NJ
Mademoiselle	Prettiest Princess Dress	Katelyn Haggerty	Scotch Plains, NJ
Westfield Health & Rehabilitation	Scariest Skeleton	Evan Cooney	Clark, NJ
Aerosoles	Souls 4 Soles	Sofia Lemberg	Westfield, NJ
Bovella's Pastry Shoppe	Sweetest Costume	Sarina Incorvaia	Clark, NJ
Windmill	Wild and Wacky	Isabella Perone	Greenbrook, NJ

 

The DWC thanks all of the downtown businesses who provided the candy and prizes and the volunteers who assisted with judging all of the costumes and awarded the prizes.  According to Sherry Cronin, Executive Director “This annual event has grown each year in popularity and we couldn’t do it without great support of the business community and our judges who volunteer. This event draws visitors from a wide area to visit our downtown too.”  Volunteer judges included:  Dee Murley of Xocolatz, Millicent Brody, Jamie Lemberg, Peg Lockwood, Lee Corcoran, Barry Corcoran, Carole Leone, Nancy Trippe, Dea Lenihan, Brendan Lenihan, Daniel Cronin, Richard Edge, Lily Suda, Sophie Greene, Colleen Verdic, Caroline Verdic, and Nicole Notar.     

 

The DWC appreciates the support of the community and looks forward to another successful event next year.

 

Photo:  The Fei Family of Scotch Plains was one of 59 winners in the 2009 Downtown Westfield Corporation Costume Contest.  They were the recipient of a gift certificate from Boogie’s Tickets.   

 

Bath Junkie - Come party like a bath junkie!  Join in the festivities at their grand opening weekend starting Saturday, November 7th with a ribbon cutting at 11am.  Enjoy the signature bath junkie hand treatment and for customers both old and new, take 10% off body, home and pet products scented and colored by you! 221 North Ave. E., 908.264.8633. www.bathjunkie.com

 

Sole Sole has introduced a number of new lines and accessories to accompany their fabulous and famous Italian shoes.  They have a great selection of women's boots, new fashion jewelry, and an expanded men's line. 201 E. Broad St., 908.654.7800.  www.italiansole.com

 

Treasure Cove Water Sports
Treasure Cove is pleased to announce that it has begun carrying items from TYR Sportswear, a leading supplier of competitive and fashion swimwear, apparel and equipment. For the month of November, Treasure Cove is running a promotion on all TYR swim goggles: Buy one pair, get the second pair at 50% off. 407 South Ave. W., 908.654.8808. www.treasurecovedivers.com

The Eardly T. Petersen Co.
Save on heating bills. Suncloud, the original "soft heat" space heater, gives safe and efficient heat up to 800 sq. ft. 224 Elmer St.,  908.232.5723
www.etpetersen.com
 
Galeria West, Art & Framing 
15% off any new custom framing order, 15% off original paintings, 25% off in store prints. 111 Quimby Street, 908.301.9217. 
Douglas Cosmetics November 2-16 get a Lancome Free 7 piece Gift with $29.50 purchase. While supplies last. One per customer. 127 Central Ave., 908.928.1122. www.douglascosmetics.com

Bittersweet Designs Friday, November 27th, GO GREEN AND SAVE GREEN. The first 50 customers will receive a free reusable tote, plus save $20.00 with every $100.00 purchase.  (Valid 11/27 only). 212 Lenox Avenue, 908.389.0330.

Boulevard Bistro Offers Fall Dinner Special  - This new Italian eatery is featuring a Fall Dinner Special for $11.95 per person, Monday through Thursdays. You have a choice of soup - cream of broccoli/ Pasta Fagiole - or salad, Mista Della Casa, plus your choice of an Entree: Choose from Penne, Spaghetti, or Rigatoni with Tomato Basil or Ala Vodka sauce, or Chicken Francese or Parmesan. Ice Tea or Lemonade included.  301 South Avenue West, 908.264.8252. www.theblvdbistro.com  
 
Ana Beall's Tea Room Now Open for Supper Beginning 11/13 Plan an exciting Friday the 13th. Invite your best guy or girl, your family, and friends, and head to Ana Beall's for supper. That's right, SUPPER! The delectable Southern Style Cuisine starts with Hush Puppies served with a Spicy-Sweet, Orange Dipping Sauce, Chicken and Andouille Gumbo on a bed of Carolina White Rice, and Louisiana Crab Cakes. Entrees arrive with smokey greens and sweet corn cakes, and your choice of Buttermilk whipped potatoes, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, or red beans and rice. Specials Feature: Dry-Rubbed, Roast Pork Tenderloin with Jalapeno Peach Chutney, Pan Fried Catfish with Red Pepper Remoulade, and Pecan Crusted Chicken Breast with Spicy Citrus Cream Sauce. Enjoy a chunk of Praline Cheesecake for Dessert. YUM! Open for a.m. sweets, lunch, high tea, weekend brunch, and NOW for SUPPER on Friday and Saturday. Ana Beall's Tea Room, 415 Westfield Ave., Westfield. Call for reservations: 908-264-4221. Hours: 10-6 Tuesday -Thursday. 10-10 Friday and Saturday. 9-6 Sunday.  www.anabeallstearoom.com.    News Flash: Ana Beall's is featured in the current Nov/Dec 2009 issue of NJ Life Magazine (pg. 61 in their "Tastings" section) as a 'tearoom that hits the spot'! Read the article: www.newjerseylife.com/dining/tastings-tea-time.  
    
    

Limani Seafood Grill Offers Price Fixed Menus They will be offering lunch specials for $8.95, in addition to a two course lunch for $14 through November. Prix Fixe Dinner Menu is offered Sunday to Wednesday featuring a fabulous selection of Three Courses. 235 North Ave. West. For Reservations call 908-233-0052 or online www.limaniwestfieldnj.com.  

Tinga Taqueria Celebrates the Mexican Holiday, Dia de los Muertos Now through Nov 14 they are displaying Las Calaveras (sugar skulls) made by local students and offering FREE Mexican Hot Chocolate for all who come and see the display. 110 Central Ave. 908.301.0100. www.tingausa.com. 

Cold Stone Creamery Offers Gingerbread and Candy Cane Ice Cream
Enjoy November ice cream, pie and cake sales featuring Gingerbread, Candy Cane, and their new Brownie Batter Ice Creams.  Also try the new Apple Dumpling A La Mode cake.  Sales include: $2 off a 6-pack of cupcakes, $3 off small round cakes (serves 8), $4 off large round cakes (serves 14), $5 off rectangle cakes, and all Pies are $12.99. 163 E. Broad St. , 908.518.0044. www.coldstonecreamery.com.

Qdoba Mexican Grill Now Delivers Free local delivery for a nominal fee of $3. 70 Elm St., 908.301.0050. www.qdoba.com.  

CoolVines November Wine Tastings 
Saturday November 21st (2-5pm): What to pair with Thanksgiving Dinner - CoolVines makes it easy to pair great wine with any Thanksgiving meal, come in this Saturday to taste some selections that can be featured at your table. Saturday November 28th (2-5pm): CoolVines Holiday Theme Packs- they've put together several 4 and 6 packs to pair well with any holiday meal.  A fantastic host(ess) gift. Sample some of the wines that are part of these theme packs. 23 Elm St. 908-232-5050. www.coolvines.com.  

You may have noticed that the Mademoiselle building is getting a facelift thanks to owners Mitchell and Amy Mankin with assistance from the DWC Design Committee and Regal Restoration. The facade restoration includes removal of the old faux Tudor treatment, new windows, new trim, cornices, a new store front, and exterior painting.  The photo shows what the building will look like after the restoration. Mademoiselle dress shop is open during construction with 75% off selected merchandise! 107 E. Broad St. 908.233.0763. http://mademoisellenj.com

Saturday  November 21, 8pm 
Melissa Ferrick Concert in Westfield The Coffee With Conscience Concert Series continues its TENTH SEASON by presenting the powerful Melissa Ferrick, in concert at the First United Methodist Church, 1 East Broad Street (corner of North Avenue) in Westfield, on Saturday, November 21st. Doors will open at 7:30 PM and the concert begins at 8 PM. Admission is $18.00 online and $23.00 at the door. This concert will benefit the Plainfield Chapter of Habitat for Humanity.  Advance purchase of tickets is recommended. Call the Concert Hotline at 908.412.9105 or visit www.coffeewithconscience.org.

 

 

November 25, Wednesday, 10am-noon Elf on The Shelf Book Signing at Learning Express Toys On Wednesday, November 25th from 10:00am-Noon, don't miss this chilcren's book signing at Learning Express Toys. You may purchase books at the signing or bring in your previously purchased book. 184 Elm St., 908.233.1381. www.westfield.learningexpress-toys.com.  

 

 

November 27, Friday
Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus
Don't miss Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus, sponsored by the DWC and Lord & Taylor, Friday and Saturday, November 27 & 28 from 1 pm to 7 pm, and Sunday, November 29 from 1 pm to 5 pm at Lord & Taylor, 609 North Ave. West. Get a Free 5x7 with a donation of 2 cans of non-perishable food for the Knights of Columbus Food Drive. New this year -- photo and photo packages are available immediately onsite!
Info: DWC 908.789.9444.  Lord & Taylor 609 North Ave. W.

 

November Events for the Miller-Cory House Museum There are many events coming up in November at the historic Miller-Cory House. November 15 - Sweet Things...18th Century Candy; November 22 - Annual Thanksgiving Dinner and Colonial Table Manners and Customs. The museum is open from 2 - 4 p.m. Admission: $2.50 for adults; $1.00 for students, children under four are free. 614 Mountain Ave., 908.232.1776.  

 

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In the spirit of the holidays, Evalyn Dunn's Gallery is giving a free 5x7 frame, with UV protected glass and matting with any purchase of framing or art. And if you bring in your photo or picture, we'll even put it together for you.  Not to be combined with any other promotion. One per customer. Must meniton seeing this on Westfieldtoday.com. Expires 12/31/2009. 

Whether you are cooking at home, making reservations, or catering your Thanksgiving dinner, there are many restaurants and caterers downtown who can help you with seasonal foods and menus. Here are just a few.    

 

Specialty Groceries and Cooking Items:  

Trader Joe's Shop here for fresh natural turkeys, kosher turkeys, gravy, organic orange cranberry sauce, produce chestnuts and yams, cranberry stuffing mix, cornbread mix, roasted garlic mashed potatoes and more. Call 908.301.0910 or visit www.traderjoes.com . The store  is closed on Thanksgiving Day, but is open for extended hours on other days, 8am to 9pm beginning Monday 11/9, just in time for the holidays.

 

Williams-Sonoma Get great tools for preparing your Thanksgiving meal like roasters (see photo of the All-Clad Roasting Pan on sale for $249.95, regularly $360), basters and twine, plus gourmet grocery products like Turkey Gravy, Cranberry Relish, La Brea Focaccia Stuffing, Turkey Paste, and more. Call 908.301.0075 or visit www.williams-sonoma.com .

Caterers & Prepared Foods:  

 

Clyne & Murphy Thanksgiving dinner for 10 to 12 guests includes a 16-18 pound turkey, turkey stuffing, sweet potato casserole, green beans with cashew butter, glazed carrots, cranberry sauce, gravy, dinner rolls and a key lime pie! $289. Call 908.233.9733 or visit www.clyneandmurphy.com.  

 

Xocolatz Restaurant & Grill Offers "everything but the bird". Choose from large menu of soups, sauces, stuffings, vegetables, potatoes and desserts. Examples include cream of pumpkin with roasted fennel soup, herb honey roasted yams with cashews and golden raisins, roasted Fall vegetables with fennel, beets and acorn squash, polenta stuffing with apples & sweet Italian sausage and much more! Call 908.232.3962 or visit www.xocolatznj.com.

Robert Treat Deli Offering a Thanksgiving menu of fresh roast turkey, homemade gravy, traditional bread stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, buttered green beans, cranberry sauce and fresh baked pies. Call 908.232.0925 and visit the website for the complete menu. www.roberttreatdeli.com.

 

16 Prospect Wine Bar & Bistro  Offering roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, traditional stuffing, pumpkin & shrimp bisque, and more for take out by the pound. Also fresh apple and pumpkin pies. Call 908.232.7320 for details or visit www.16prospect.com.

 

Restaurants Open On Thanksgiving Day:  

 

Acquaviva delle fonti  Call 908.301.0700 or visit www.acquaviva-dellefonti.com.    

 

Chez Catherine  Featuring their regular Dinner menu plus traditional Thanksgiving turkey and accompaniments. They will have seatings starting at 12:00pm and are open to 9pm. Call 908.654.4011 or visit www.chezcatherine.com. 

It's Ana Beall's for a Delightful Friday Night Supper

Come and say "hi" to Chef Jason Brown. Hailing straight from the South to Ana Beall's - just off South Ave., you'll love his crab shortcakes, hush puppies, salads, pecan crusted chicken, and delicious Carolina pulled pork barbeque. Do save room for a scrumptious dessert.

Call for reservations: 908.264.4221 Hours: 10-6 Tuesday to Thursday. 10-10 Friday and Saturday. 9-6 Sunday. Ana Beall's, 415 South Ave., Westfield.

Enter to win our weekly drawing for Gift Cards to your favorite Downtown Westfield Businesses or Restaurants!

 

From Thanksgiving to New Year's Day, enter to win weekly prizes of $150, $100 and $50 in gift cards of your choice. Provide your email address to enter our bonus drawing for a $20 parking card each week.

 

Just complete the entry form available at your favorite Westfield business or online at www.westfieldtoday.com. Place your completed form in the special mailboxes located at the corner of Elm Street & E. Broad St. (on the steps of the historic bank building) or on the corner of South Ave. and Summit Ave. between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day.

 

Mailed entries will be accepted. Limit one entry per person per week. Must be 18 years or over. Winners will be randomly drawn on December 5, 12, 19, 26 and January 2.

 

A local Garden Center is doing much more than providing fresh, fragrant Christmas Trees for your holiday enjoyment this year. Williams Nursery is part of a national effort called Trees for Troops which will provide more than 15,000 Real Christmas Trees to military families across the United States and overseas.

 

Since 2005 Christmas Tree farmers and retailers have donated their own trees for the Trees for Troops program.  The Christmas SPIRIT Foundation, the non-profit that implements Trees for Troops, received many requests from the public on how they could help to donate.  This year, consumers will have the opportunity to purchase a tree at Williams Nursery that will be delivered to a military family in the United States.  Consumers can come during Trees for Troops Weekend, Friday, Dec. 4 – Sunday, Dec. 6, to purchase a tree for a military family, or they can order one through Williams’s website www.williams-nursery.com.  Williams Nursery is the only location in NJ  that consumers will be able to participate in the program.  Williams Nursery will also have tables set up so that children can personalize notes that will be attached to the trees before they are delivered to the troops.

 

“This is our second year that we are involved, and we are very excited to be a part of this program,” said David Williams, partner at Williams Nursery, “Also, for every tree that a consumer purchases, we will contribute $5 per tree to the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation, which implements the Trees for Troops program and other programs for kids, families and the environment. This is a great way for consumers to become directly involved with the Trees for Troops program and allow more military families to receive a tree this holiday season.  Providing memories at this time of year is extremely important, especially for families with loved ones serving our country. Our staff was deeply touched with our involvement in the program last year and can’t wait for us to participate again this year. ” 

 

 

Trees for Troops began in 2005 when FedEx, who donates the shipping of the trees, and the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation provided 4,300 Real Christmas Trees to military families at five bases in the U.S. and overseas.  In 2008 over 17,000 military families at 53 bases in the U.S. and overseas received a tree.  Since 2005, CSF and FedEx have delivered over 34,000 Real Christmas Trees to 17 countries.  FedEx has traveled over 144,000 over-the-road miles to deliver trees.  This year, CSF, FedEx and Garden Centers of America Members, with the help of consumers across the country, plan to deliver 15,000 Christmas Trees to military families.

 

 

About Williams Nursery

Williams Nursery is a fourth generation family business that just celebrated their 89^th anniversary. They have been recognized by Today’s Garden Center magazine as one of the 100 most innovative garden centers in the USA. David Williams currently is President Elect of Garden Centers of America. For more information visit their website at

htp://www.williamsnursery.com

 

About the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation

The Christmas SPIRIT Foundation (CSF) is the 501(c)(3) non-profit branch of the National Christmas Tree Association.  Based in Chesterfield, Mo., CSF advances the Christmas spirit for children, families and the environment.  CSF implements the Trees for Troops program and has provided books for children from low-income families and services for victims of child abuse and neglect.  For more details, go to www.christmasspiritfoundation.org.

 

About Garden Centers of America

Garden Centers of America^TM (GCA) was established in 1973 and has been actively supporting the garden center industry for over thirty years.  The membership represents independent garden centers of all sizes from all areas of the country.  GCA’s mission is to ensure the long term success and sustainability of independent retail garden centers of North America.  For more information, please visit www.gardencentersofamerica.org

 

Annual holiday sale Sunday, December 6th 1-3pm. Enjoy 20% off all boutique items, including already reduced merchandise, enter a drawing to receive 1 month of unlimited yoga simply by making a boutique purchase on Sunday, plus get a Free class with any purchase of $100 or more. To help pay for your shopping, bring in your unwanted gold jewelry. Danny Weinglass, a local jeweler will be on hand Sunday and is paying top $$ for gold. Not to be combined w/ any other offer.

The Downtown Westfield Corporation held its annual holiday open house last night at its headquarters located at 105 Elm Street in downtown Westfield.  Over 200 Westfield business owners and officials attended the gathering that featured a wide array of tastings from Westfield’s eateries as well as holiday treats. The DWC would like to thank the downtown merchants, property owners, volunteers, and council members for their support throughout the year in helping make Downtown Westifled a great place to shop, dine and celebrate.

Photo courtesy of Millicent Brody

Thursday, December 17, 2009, 11-2pm 
Blue Mercury Tea & Cookies

Westfield holiday shoppers are invited to stop by Blue Mercury on December 17th from 11am - 2pm for tea and cookies provided by Ana Beall's Tea Room. A Laura Mercier makeup artist will be available for holiday makeup. 82 Elm St., 908.233.1100. www.bluemercury.com

Saturdays, December 12,19,20, 2009
Juxtapose Gallery Jewelry Trunk Shows in December
Dec 5: Designer Satna Mehra with inspirational pieces from Jewelry For the Global Sole, December 12: Designs by Suzanne, December 19 & 20: Due Sorelle. 58 Elm St., 908.232.3278. www.juxtaposegallery.com

Saturday, December 12, Brad Parks Author Signing at The Town Book Store
On December 12, 2009 from 10:30-12:00 PM, Author Brad Parks will sign copies of his book, Faces of the Gone, at the Town Book Store. Main character Carter Ross grew up in Millburn, works in Newark, lives in Nutley. He drives the Parkway, parties in Hoboken, stalks killers in Summit. He's a hero of New Jersey, by New Jersey and for New Jersey. This book will be a treat for readers familiar with the many locales that investigative reporter Carter Ross traverses in his search for a brutal murderer. 270 E. Broad St. 908.233.3535. www.townbookstore.com  

Saturday December 12 Holiday Drop and Shop Bring your child (ages 6-16) to Just Bead Yourself to make 3 gifts for $39 while you shop in town! Come from 10:30am-12:30pm or 1:30pm to 3:30pm, December 12. To register call 908-232-3411 or visit www.justbeadyourself.com 113 Central Ave.  

Miller Cory House December Museum Events December 13: German Christmas Customs. Ideal for children and adults. Visit their website: www.millercoryhouse.org, or email millercorymuseum@gmail.com.

Thursday, December 31st, 2009
Ring in the New Year with Westfield Symphony! WSO presents one of New Jersey's most popular New Year's Eve musical celebrations....THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK. Thursday December 31st, 7pm at the Westfield High School Auditorium. Join Maestro David Wroe and WSO for a superb revue of American musical theater classics presented in glorious symphonic splendor featuring guest soloists direct from Broadway and beyond. An event for the whole family. The WSO recommends making reservations as soon as possible as tickets are selling fast and last year's concert was a sell-out. Tickets in advance are $35 for general admission and $65 for preferred seating ($40 and $70 at the door, if available.) Order by phone 908 232 9400. www.westfieldsymphony.org

Holiday Desserts Platters

Here are a few of downtown Westfield eating establishments offering platters of sweet treats for the holidays: Ana Beall's Tea Room 908.264.4221; Bovella's Pastry Shoppe 908.232.4140;
Crumbs Bake Shop 908.232-5527; Tutti Baci Cafe 908.317.9200; Robert Treat Deli 908.232.0925.    

Winter Menus and Holidays at Chez Catherine
Winter Menus are now being served at this fabulous French restaurant. They are open for Lunch from Tuesday to Friday, Sunday Brunch from noon to 3:00PM, and Sunday Dinner (3:30 to 8:00PM) on December 6th, 13th and 20th. They serve dinner every night Tuesday - Saturday, but will serve Sunday dinners and brunch as well during these dates only. They will be open for Christmas Eve 5:30 to 9:00PM and Christmas Day Dinner from 4:30 to 8:00PM. As always Chez Catherine will celebrate the New Year with a New Year' Eve Tasting Gala Dinner at 6:00PM and 9:30PM seatings. They will start New Year's Day with their Special Brunch from Noon to 3:30PM. 431 North Ave. W., 908.654.4011.

 

Complimentary Dessert with your Supper at Ana Beall's
Happy Holidays from Your Friends at Ana Beall's, Westfield's cozy and comfortable premier Tea Room. Not only is the staff ready to serve friends and family tea and delectables, you are invited to come for Supper any Friday or Saturday evening. During the month of December, enjoy one Complimentary Dessert with your Meal. In addition, you're welcome to order an array of dessert platters for the Holidays. The staff is busy baking your favorite muffins, scones, pastries, and desserts. Hours: 10 to 5 Tuesday to Thursday for lunch or tea service. Serving an eclectic Southern Cuisine until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.  Open 9 - 6 on Sundays. 415 Westfield Avenue, 908.264.4221.

Holiday Cookies and Cupcakes at Crumbs

Host a holiday party that everyone will be talking about until next year. Stop by Crumbs Westfield for delicious holiday decorated cookies and cupcakes to share with your family and friends...they won't be able to resist! Crumbs Westfield, 130 East Broad St, 908. 232.5527 or visit them online at www.crumbs.com for nationwide shipping.
 
Homemade Beer Competition at The Office Beer Bar & Grill
Do you have aspirations to be the next Beer Baron? If so, The Office is hosting the perfect competition for you. The Home Brewers Wars - sponsored by High Point Brewing Company, makers of Ramstein Beer - will answer the question: who is the best amateur brewer in New Jersey? The first round of competition, "The People's Choice," will be held on Tuesday, December 8th, beginning at 8pm, at all Office Beer Bar locations. Homemade beers will be judged by customers and professional brewers alike, with a victor emerging from each of the seven Office locations. On Saturday, December 12th, the seven finalists will face off at 5pm at the Montclair Office Beer Bar, where judges from High Point Brewing Company, Nash Distributors and High Grade Distributors will choose the best home brewer. The winner will receive a $100 Office gift card, have the chance to spend the day working with the brewers at High Point to create their recipe from scratch, will receive a commemorative tap handle and plaque and the first keg will be tapped during a ceremony in late January. The winner's beer will then be sold throughout our restaurants for beer lovers to enjoy. So head down to the basement and start brewing! If you would like to enter, please email the following information to beerwars@cbsteakhouse.com. Name, Address, Email, Phone, D.O.B, Restaurant Location. 411 North Ave. W., 908.232.1207.
 
Wine Tastings at CoolVines in December, Saturdays, 2-5pm
December 5th: How Syrah became Shiraz! Join for an exploration of how Traditional Syrah became Modern Shiraz, and taste an Old World Syrah from France and a New World Shiraz from Australia. December 12th: White Wines to get you through the Winter. Who says you can't drink white wine after Labor Day?  December 19th: Wines to serve at Christmas Dinner. December 26th: Wines to help ring in the New Year! Nothing says the New Years like a little bubby and holiday cheer, come taste some sparkling wines. 23 Elm St., 908-232-5050. www.coolvines.com 

Williams-Sonoma - Don't miss their seasonal Peppermint Hot Chocolate $19.50, or the handmade peppermint bark (pictured above), made of premium chocolate and pure peppermint oil ($26.50). Both are delicious and make great gifts for the holidays. 127 Central Ave. 908.301.0075. www.williams-sonoma.com  

 

Poppyfields Home - After 12 years of business in Westfield, owners, Lori & Marlene will close their doors but will still be in town decorating out of a new, local office. In the meantime 30 - 50% off storewide with 20% off all special orders. More merchandise still coming in. Hours Tues - Sat, 1-5pm. 116 Elm Street, 908.518.9495.  

 

Trader Joe's - They have some terrific and affordable holiday delectables. Trader Joe's Decaffeinated Candy Cane Green Tea is $1.99 for a box of 20 tea bags. Coins of the world, a sweet derivation of traditional Hanukah gelt, or money, these Kosher-certified chocolate coins make great gifts for kids, $1.99 for each four ounce bag. 155 Elm St. 908.301.0910  
 

 

The Paw House - Receive 10% off your purchase of holiday gifts for your furry friends during December with mention of this Downtown Westfield Newsletter.  Edibles excluded. 217 Elmer Street, 908.232.8200.
 
 

The Couture Exchange - Receive 10% off your purchase with mention of this Downtown Westfield Newsletter. 33 Elm St., 908.232.0071. www.thecoutureexchange.com   

 

Rhain Accessories & Gifts - 20% off your total purchase going on now through December 9th. (photo above.)129 Elm St. 908.654.1658.

 

 

Evalyn Dunn's Gallery - Get a FREE 5x7 frame, with UV protected glass and matting, with any purchase of framing or art. It makes a great gift for someone for the holidays! And if you bring in the photo or picture, they'll even put it together for you. Not to be combined with any other promotion. One per customer.  expires 12/31/2009. 549 South Ave. W. 908.232.0412  
 
Castle Bootery - Enjoy 'Customer Appreciation Month' with 15% off the entire store, excluding UGGS and special orders. 52 Elm St., 908.233.7172.
 
Aerosoles - AEROSALE - Savings up to 70% select styles. 161 E. Broad St. 908.232.2963.
 
Douglas Cosmetics - Enjoy Holiday Happy Hours and receive 10% off. Visit 12/07- 12/11 and 12/14 - 12/18, Monday - Friday from 6-8pm. Beat the crowds, shop stress free  and receive 10% off your purchase. Shop after work, have some cider and treats and let the beauty advisors at Douglas help you pick out the perfect gift. 127 Central Ave., 908.928.1122. www.douglascosmetics.com.
 
The UPS Store - They have the expertise to pack and ship all your holiday packages safely & securely. 231 North Ave. W., 908.654.8200.
 
Brand Travel Service - Celebrity Cruises Back in Bermuda 7 night cruises departing from Bayonne, NJ beginning April 25, 2010 from $827.30 per person! 204 Lenox Ave., 908.232.0900.
 
The Eardly T. Petersen Co. - Honda #1 Compact Snowblower, Fast, Easy & Powerful, On Sale NOW. 224 Elmer St., 908.232.5723. http://www.etpetersen.com 
 
Alpha Insurance - Offering to qualified clients a 10 to 20% discount on workers comprehensive policy. Discounts for restaurants, offices, retail stores and contractors. Call for a free price quote, especially if your agent is not a local agent. 605 South Ave., 908.232.1955. 

The Winter 2009/2010 issue of edible Jersey magazine features an article called "the edible 66", which lists a few of their favorite restaurants. The establishments they admire range from tiny to sophisticated, and most of the picks strive to "buy local" to support Jersey based famers and food purveyors. Their list includes restaurants that have been featured in their pages and/or recommended by their writers and advisors. Each establishment is, in their own way, helping to define and support a truly edible Jersey.

 

Xocotatz in Westfield has been named on this list and is the only Westfield restaurant to be included. 

 

Xocolatz has been in Westfield since 2002, first on Elm Street and now relocated to a larger spot on Elmer. It is a neighborhood favorite with good food and reasonable prices. Xocolatz is a modern byo restaurant, comfortable and welcoming. But it's the menu that's adventurous. Much of the food is Latin-influenced -- Barcelona paella, chicken or beef empanadas, a tropical salad with shrimp and mangoes. The menu also offers traditional American favorites -- meatloaf, baby-back ribs. Plus some dishes that defy category, like sweet potato pierogis. The result is an eclectic mix, a something-for-everyone.

 

Xocolatz serves lunch and dinner as well as catering for parties. 235 Elmer St., Westfield, NJ 07090, 908.232.3962.  

 

Westfield Symphony has reached the final of the Orchestra category of NJ Arts People’s Choice awards. The Jersey Arts Marketers (JAM), a regional network of cultural institutions throughout the state, nominated their peers for the online poll with the provision that they could not nominate themselves. Those receiving the highest number of nominations in each category were identified and Westfield Symphony made it onto the final shortlist.

 

People’s Choice awards are designed to discover New Jersey’s favorite Arts organizations. The public vote via an on line poll which will determine the winners. The Westfield Symphony encourages all Westfield residents, as well as those in surrounding towns, to support its bid to triumph in the Orchestra category.

The online poll is not considered scientific nor does it intend to make any evaluations as to artistic excellence, instead it is designed to give the public a voice in determining the most popular Arts institutions in New Jersey .

 

Westfield Symphony is taking the voting seriously however, and doing what they can to garner the bragging rights that will go along with winning. “It’s all in good fun,” says WSO Music Director David Wroe, “Still, we would love to win recognition and hope that our audiences and friends from Westfield and beyond will get behind us. It means a lot to both us and our community.”

 

The public has until midnight, January 19, 2010 to cast their ballot. To vote for Westfield Symphony Orchestra in the Orchestra category go to www.westfieldsymphony.org and click on the People’s Choice Award ballot icon. Voters will also have the opportunity to vote in other Arts categories and five lucky voters will be selected at random to receive the items of their choice from the JerseyArts.com Online Store. Winners will be announced on JerseyArts.com on January 28, 2010.

 

Westfield residents encouraged to cast votes for Westfield Symphony Orchestra  

By Millicent K. Brody, as published on www.newjerseylife.com/shopping

Ed Menapace and Bill Curtis have owned the The Farmhouse Store in Westfield for three years. Formerly located on North Avenue, the partners moved their exciting emporium to East Broad Street in August 2009. Much like a craft museum, you can’t simply stroll through the store. You must take time to enter and browse the shelves, baskets, buckets, tables, floors, and walls.

“We source our craftspeople from all over the country,” says Menapace. “We have hand-hewn tables from Pennsylvania Amish woodworkers; glass from glass blowers in Seattle, Washington; pieces from New Jersey weavers; and jewelry from San Francisco and the Catskill Mountains, in New York. Our working artists are dedicated to creating the finest American crafts.”

“I started out working as a buyer in an American crafts gallery,” explains Menapace. “As the years progressed, I gravitated to the furniture industry. I took pride in knowing that every bit of furniture was made by families living in North Carolina. When the furniture industry moved overseas, I decided to bring Americana back to New Jersey. That’s when we opened The Farmhouse Store.”

As visitors stroll the more than 3,000 square feet of The Farmhouse Store, they’re completely mesmerized by all of the merchandise lurking in every corner, hutch, basket, and wall. Every handcrafted farmhouse table is loaded with textiles, jewelry, wood, metal work, and blown glass. Stop and admire the magnificent reclaimed barnwood farmhouse tables highlighted with amazing throws from New Hampshire. There’s also handmade pottery that’s both useful and beautiful, among other offerings, such as Frazer Fir candles, which have been a hit over the holiday season.

In addition to all of the beautiful objects for your home, you’ll love the affordable jewelry. I dazzled a friend with a funky, forest green beaded ring, which she absolutely loves.

So, if you find yourself strolling around picturesque Westfield, do stop in. One word of warning, though—it’s almost impossible to leave without treating yourself to something!

The Farmhouse Store
221 East Broad St.
Westfield
908.654.0444
thefarmhousestore.com

You have seen it in Men's Fitness, Self, on the Biggest Loser and in the hands of athletes and celebrities alike, now come experience it for yourself only at Westfield Fitnes Studio! Westfield Fitness is the only area fitness center with the TRX Suspension Training Zone Group Training.

For the second straight year, the Downtown Westfield Corporation has sponsored the Miracle on Elm Street shopping spree contest with great results. The event, which asked contestants to complete entry forms at their favorite downtown businesses or at the www.WestfieldToday.com website, offered weekly gift card prizes of $150, $100 and $50. The gift cards can be used at any downtown store or restaurant at the choice of the winner. There was also a bonus drawing for a $20 parking card each week.

 

Winners were drawn at random on December 5, 12, 19, and 26 - with the final drawing taking place on January 2. Contestants had to be 18 or over to enter, and completed entry forms were placed in either of two special mailboxes. These mailboxes were located at the corner of Elm Street and E. Broad Street and on the corner of South Avenue and Summit Avenue.  

 

There were 646 entry forms submitted in the first three weeks alone. Applicants originated from states as far away as Massachusetts and Virginia, which demonstrates that Westfield truly lives up to its name of 'Welcome Home to Westfield' during the holiday season.  

 

The first week's drawing, held on December 5, featured $150 winner Dolores Keegel of Edison, NJ, who requested gift cards from Trader Joe's and the Children's Place. The $100 winner was Annemarie Yoos of Piscataway, NJ who selected a Lord & Taylor gift card, while $50 winner Jessica Styler of Mountainside, NJ elected for a Victoria's Secret gift card. Sandi Tortorella of Scotch Plains won the bonus drawing, and received a $20 parking card. The second week's winners included Westfield residents Robert Kerwin, Helene Pacifico, and Asima Jansveld who won a $100 gift card to Ferraro's, a $50 gift card to Sweet Waters Steak House, and a $20 parking card, respectively. The $150 winner, Michael Pellino of Roselle Park, received his gift card from Lord & Taylor. The drawing held on December 19 went to $150 winner Kate Gromyko of Cranford, $100 winner Gloria Wimberly of Newark, $50 winner Patti Gibbons of Westfield and bonus drawing winner Karen Brody of Vauxhall. Gift cards were purchased from Lord & Taylor, Coldwater Creek and Eileen Fisher.  The December 26 drawing was won by all Westfield residents Pat Gibbons ($150 in gift cards to Talbot's and Xocolatz) Glen DuMont ($100 in gift certificates to Theresa's, Mojave Grille and Isabella's) Peter Warren ($50 gift card to Trader Joe's), and Gary Siegel ($20 parking card). The final drawing, held on January 2, included Westfield winners Amy Herber ($150), The Fromm Family ($100), and Jennaea Gearhart ($20 parking card). Julie Jacobs of Scotch Plains received $50. They have not yet chosen from which businesses they will receive gift cards.

According to Sherry Cronin, Executive Director of the Downtown Westfield Corporation, "We are pleased with the level of participation, not only with the community but also the merchants and restaurants which have embraced this promotion and encouraged their customers to enter the contest. Also, the range of demographics proves that Westfield continues to be a preferred shopping and dining destination".   The DWC is the management entity of the Special Improvement District and one of only 26 Main Street communities in New Jersey.

Robert Treat Delicatessen is now taking orders for football playoff gatherings, Super Bowl, and all your upcoming events. They are also taking orders for their homemade chicken pot pies, made fresh every Thursday, pick up after 11am. Order early to avoid disappointment. 113 Quimby St., 908.232-0925. www.roberttreatdeli.com
 
Cold Stone Creamery suggests you order desserts now for your Football Super Bowl Party. Take $2 Off a 6 pack of their 'super' tasting ice cream Cupcakes.163 E. Broad St. 908.518.0044. www.coldstonecreamery.com
 
16 Prospect Wine Bar & Bistro is proud to announce that Jazz great Carrie Jackson has joined them on Thursday evenings. Ms. Jackson is accompanied by her Jazz All-stars. Stop by to experience a Jazz legend. 16 Prospect St., 908.232.7320. www.16prospect.com

 

CoolVines
To kick off the new decade, CoolVines is offering 10% off all wine purchases to the employees of fellow Westfield merchants and businesses.  Come in and sign up now! 23 Elm Street, 908.232.5050 www.coolvines.com

 

 

You may have shopped for everyone on your list last month, but now is the time to visit your favorite stores for bargains for yourself! Check out these amazing deals going on now at our downtown retailers and stock up on your own wardrobe items.

 

Randal's Shoes UGGS for women and children are still available, including boots and slippers. 82 Elm St., 908.232.3680.

 

Williams-Sonoma Winter Sale up to 75% off throughout the store. Quantities are limited. 127 Central Ave. 908.301.0075. www.williams-sonoma.com  

 

Lucky Brand Jeans Twice Yearly Sale. Enjoy 50% off select items thru 1/10/10. 253 E. Broad St., 908.518.1794.
www.luckybrand.com  

 

Ann Taylor Semi Annual Sale 30-70% off. 167 E. Broad St. 908.301.9701. www.anntaylor.com  

 

GAP and GAP Kids Up to 70% off select styles. GAP 207 E. Broad St., 908.654.8260; GAP Kids 234 E. Broad St. 908.233.2723. www.gap.com  

 

Janie and Jack Season finale sale up to 60% off select items. 200 E. Broad St. 908.232.3721. www.janieandjack.com  

 

Nirvana Up to 50% off. 218 E. Broad St. 908.232.5774. www.shopnirvana.com  

 

White House/Black Market Winter Sale up to 60% off original prices. 206 E. Broad St. 908.233.1008. www.whitehouseblackmarket.com  

 

Esprit Up to 70% off select styles. 151 E. Broad St. 908.233.7878.
www.esprit.com  

 

Chico's Up to 65% off select styles. 76 Elm St. 908.301.1737. www.chicos.com  

 

The Children's Place Up to 50% off select items. 177 E. Broad St., 908.789.7542.  www.childrensplace.com 
 

 

Victoria's Secret The Semi-Annual sale - save up to 50% off select items. 233 E. Broad St. 908.518.0859. www.victoriassecret.com  

 

Sadie 50% off almost everything in the store. 107 Prospect St., 908.654.3800.  

 

Sole 20 to 70% off regular price on select boots, 50% off select men's shoe, and 30% off all handbags now through January 31.  201 E. Broad St., 908.654.7800. www.italiansole.com    

 

Mademoiselle 50-80% off a limited selection of suits, dresses and gowns. 107 E. Broad St. 908.233.0763. www.mademoisellenj.com    

 

Aerosoles Take an extra 25% off All Boots 1/7-1/18. 161 E. Broad St. 908.232.2963. www.aerosoles.com  

 

 

Douglas Cosmetics
SUPERSIZE your purchase and SAVE with Clinique! Clinique Super Size Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel or Lotion (6.7oz) ONLY $35. Clinique Jumbo Liquid Facial Soap (13.3oz) ONLY $26. While supplies last.127 Central Ave., 908.928.1122. www.douglascosmetics.com. 
 
The Eardly T. Petersen Co.
The original, portable Infrared Space Heater Sun Cloud - for over 30 years. Save up to 30% on your Heating Bills! 224 Elmer St., 908.232.5723. http://www.etpetersen.com 

Kiehl's Since 1851 is converting to a L'Oreal Designer Fragrance and Cosmetics Store at the end of January. They will offer 20-30% off retail prices for L'Oreal products. L'Oreal is the parent company of Kiehl's and the store will sometimes carry Kiehl's discontinued products. 132 E. Broad St., 908.389.1719.  www.kiehls.com  

 

The Westfield Running Company is planning to move from their current location at 17 Elm St. to the old Blue Tulip space at 123 Quimby Street on March 1.  908.654.9900. www.therunningcompany.net  

 

Westfield Sleep Center recently moved from South Ave. to 125 Elm St., the former location of Smith & Hawken. In addition to Sealy, Stearns & Foster and Tempur-Pedic lines of mattresses, they now have an expanded children's furniture line, exquisite handcrafted beds with custom finish options, plus linens, comforters and pillows. Stop in for great savings during their grand opening sale and enjoy friendly service by non-commissioned sales people. 908.232.8060. www.mymattresscowboy.com

Shogun Wok A new Japanese, Chinese and Thai restaurant has recently opened at 515 South Ave. W. (next to Allstate at the circle, in the former location of Hon Bang Sushi). $1 delivery charge on phone or online orders. Call 908.232.1188 or order online www.shogunwok.com.    

 

Shampooch Professional dog grooming & pet supplies, now open at 205 South Ave. W. (across from CVS, next to Serenity Nails & Spa). New clients receive 20% off thier first haircut or bath.    

 

D&G Gift Gallery is now open at 200 Central Ave. at the corner of Central North Aves. They offer quality European Decor and accessories for home and office. 908.301.0110.  

 

Subway will be opening at the corner of Quimby and Central Ave. This is the second location of Subway in Westfield with the same owner as the South Ave. store. Construction is currently underway.    

 

Turning Point Restaurant, serving breakfast, brunch and lunch will be opening at 137 Central Ave., the former location of Bombay. Construction should begin soon.  www.theturningpoint.biz. 

Enjoy their “Small Plates” Menu

Serving a menu of tasty, shareable plates on Friday and Saturday nights, alongside their Supper menu, come over after work, meet up with your friends, or make it an informal date. BYO and spend the evening grazing through one (or many) of more than a dozen appetizers. 

 

Seafood Cakewalk - Mini-Crab Cakes and Mini-Shrimp Cakes served with a Red Pepper Remoulade.

 

Pulled Pork BBQ Sliders on miniature potato rolls with extra BBQ Sauce for dipping.

 

Caprese – Crostini topped with fresh Mozzarella and Oven Roasted Tomatoes.

 

Champignon – Crostini spread with Herbed Goat Cheese and topped with Sautéed Mushrooms, Baby Arugula, and accented with Truffle Oil.

 

Castillian – Crostini topped with Manchego Cheese, Spicy Chorizo, and a Sweet Red Pepper Chutney.

 

Burmese Shrimp -- Jumbo Shrimp marinated in a Burmese Curry and grilled. Served with a Yogurt and Cucumber sauce for dipping.

 

Vegetarian Quartet, featuring our housemade pickled

 

Saffron Red Onion slices, Black Pepper Sesame Cucumbers, Sweetened Rice Wine Radishes, Smoked Paprika Carrots.

Trio of Hummus, served with housemade crackers or crostini, and featuring: Spicy Chili Garlic Hummus, Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, Lemony Cucumber Hummus.

 

Ratatouille served in Wonton Crisps.

 

Starting on January 15th – Friday and Saturday evenings only.  

 

 

Son't miss great Valentine’s Day gifts from Williams-Sonoma including heart shaped cinnamon gummy candies ($9.95), heart shaped mixing bowls ($29.95) and Valentine’s message cookie cutters, which comes with a full alphabet to enable you to bake a customized message (19.95).

www.williams-sonoma.com

Nutley NJ’s own Famous “Stuffed Cupcakes”, featured recently on the Today Show, WPIX, WABC, Bride Magazine and more….

 

Maureen Jaret is the creator of the famous cupcakes and it all started when she decided to mix things up a bit and fill the cupcakes. “My husband and I developed a recipe for a peanut butter filling.  The following Sunday, I prepared 200 chocolate cupcakes, filled with the mixture…it was an instant hit.”  Jaret said customers sang their praises and she was inundated with inquires as to what other flavors of filling she had,” Jaret took the hint from her customers and began baking cupcakes filled with everything from hazelnut chocolate cream to margarita custard.  Today, the Jarets have over 130 different varieties of stuffed cupcakes on their roster and now in addition to Nutley NJ, Westfield is now known as the “home of the stuffed cupcakes.” According to Lisa Bertone, owner of the Westfield Rockn’ Joe, to date, sales of Stuffed Cupcakes have been terrific! A true compliment to the number of unique products that we already offer to our customers.”

 

Rockn' Joe

Forget everything you think you knew about coffee… now experience the unchallenged excellence of our exclusive “Brew Rail” system… where we offer various selections of Unique Gourmet Beans (from small independent Micro Farms, not corporately owned) from around the world… ground and brewed to order!!!

 

Current Bean Varietals include:

     *Ethiopian Harrar: nice dark chocolate undertones

     *Lake Tawar Sumatra: savory with smooth earthy notes

     *Alta Mogiana Brazil: hints of cinnamon and dates

     *Ethiopian Yirgacheffe Organic Aricha: honeysuckle and berry aromatics

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 6^th at 7:00pm. Then, come in and try one for yourself… and experience what a true ultimate Belgian Waffle is all about!!!

Friday, February 12, 2010

Scent-ual Seduction: Couples Night at Bath Junkie  

You already have your perfect match, now you'll have your perfect scent. Come Friday night February 12th, 7-9pm. Your ticket allows you to 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, and enjoly desserts from Bovella's Pastry Shoppe. The cost is $15 per couple, $10 per person. 221 North Avenue East, Westfield NJ 908.264.8633. Call to RSVP for your spot!

 

Saturday February 13, 2010

Feast Catering Presents a Valentine's Dinner & Wine Evening  

Join Feast Catering on Saturday Februaury 13, 2010 for an intimate Valentine's dinner and wine evening. Your 5-course dinner and 5-course wine paring begins with Champagne at 7:30pm. Cost: $115 per person plus gratuity, book and pay in full by Feb.1st and pay $99.99 per person plus gratuity. Book early as seating is limited. 908.654.0045.

 

 

 

Sunday February 14, 2010

CoolVines Offers Valentine's Day "Bistro" Dinner 

CoolVines of Westfield NJ has teamed up with the italian pantry bistro of Cranford NJ to offer an elegant Valentine's Day dinner, Sunday, February 14th at 5pm. Start with an amuse bouche of italian pantry tuna tartar, followed by Saffron infused popparadelle with sweet pepper braised osso bucco and red wine reduction, pared with Barbera Zerbetta 2007. Continue with a young mesclun salad with wildflower honey vinaigrette pared with Marco Cecchini 2007. Roasted organic chicken with Pomegranate risotto is pared with Ripasso Villa Monteleone 2004, and for dessert red velvet cupcakes with Godiva frosting pared with Muscat Mont Tauch, France. Price is $65, tax and tip included. For reservations, call CoolVines 908.232.5050.

 

 

Valentine's Tea Party Hosted by Creative Kids and Tea Time and Tiaras  

Join February 14th for a Valentine's Tea Party Hosted by Creative Kids and Tea Time and Tiaras. Cuddle with your cupids and ask them to "Be Mine" with an afternoon of cookies and tea (really your choice of Pink Lemonade or Apple Juice). Dress Up in our collection of Boas, Necklaces, Tiaras and Pirate Costumes. Get Creative with an Arts and Craft Project. Enjoy an Interactive Storytime. Each child will receive a Chocolate Teacup Lollipop from Sweet n Fancy. The cost is $25 (per one adult and one child), $15/ each additional child or adult. Registration is required. Space is limited! Session 1: 2:30-3:30 Ages 2 1/2 to 5 years old. Session 2: 4-5pm Grades K-4th. Creative Kids is located at 1008 South Avenue West, Westfield, NJ 07090. For more information, contact (973) 289-4934 or register at: http://teatimeandtiaras.com/events.htm

 

Valentine's Dinner at Limani Seafood Grill
A special Valentine's dinner is being offered Friday, Saturday and Sunday, February 12, 13 & 14. Their Valentine's weekend menu is all la carte and will feature specials with fresh fish and unique preparations. Call for details and reservations. 235 North Ave. W., 908.233.0052.  

 

Valentine's Menu at Chez Catherine
For Valentine's Week they will have an elegant tasting menu price fixed at $65 with optional wine pairing. Visit the web site to view the menu offering. This menu will be the only menu available on Sunday, February 14th, available from 4pm to 9pm. They also have a Mid-Week dinner menu (3 courses priced at $35) available Tuesday through Thursday from 5:30pm to 9pm. 431 North Ave. W., 908.654.4011. www.chezcatherine.com   

Intimate Valentine's Dinner at Feast Catering Join Feast Catering on Saturday February 13 for an intimate 5 course Valentine's dinner. Cost is $115 per person plus gratuity. Book early as seating is limited.  27 Elm St., 908.654.0045. 
www.feastcateringwestfield.com

Valentine's Brunch at Ana Beall's
Valentine's Weekend isn't JUST for lovers...  Bring your best friends, your family, or your sweetheart, and enjoy their special Valentine's weekend brunch, with a la carte pricing ranging from $6.99 to $13.95. You can also make plans for their special 5-course prix fixe Dinner ($45) on Friday and Saturday evenings, or 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. 415 Westfield Ave. www.anabeallstearoom.com  

 

Valentine's Dinner at Jeffrey's Cupid is looking for you and your special loved one at Jeffrey's of Westfield, featuring a special Valentine's menu Friday, February 12 to Sunday, February 14. Call today to make your reservation.  114 Central Ave. 908.232.4517.
www.jeffreysofwestfield.com  

 

Red Velvet Cakes from Bovella's Bovella's Pastry Shoppe offers Red Velvet heart cakes, cupcakes and cheesecakes, great for Valentine's Day or any day!  101 E. Broad St., 908.232.4149. www.bovellas.com    

 

Valentine's Cake from Cold Stone Creamery Cold Stone Creamery has created a fantastic tasting Valentine's Day Cake:  it is a Chocolate, Strawberry Cake topped with Strawberries.  $3 OFF any size you purchase with a copy of this promotion. 163 E. Broad St. 908.518.0044. www.coldstonecreamery.com

 by Millicent K. Brody

 

You’ll Find it All at Bittersweet Design  

 

Westfield NJ, February 4th, 2010 -- Edie Isoldi is living her dream. As the owner of Bittersweet Design, a great “secret shop” on Lenox Avenue, she is having the time of her life. Visitors entering the bustling shop get a rush of excitement. Floors, corners, shelves and cubbies are filed with trendy jewelry, hand bags, wallets, lovely pins, pill boxes, business card holders, picture frames, bracelets, stunning scarves, belts, beautiful gifts for the home, and a thousand and one other fabulous things you not only want, you actually believe you have to have. 

 

Think trendy Pearls! You’ll find reams of bracelets, necklaces rings, and earrings in colors of black, pink, soft white, and even gold.   “We’re carrying a line of linen and leather bags that arrive in colorful print colors,” said the owner. We also carry carry a plethora of handbags in every style and color to fit every price point.”    

 

Literally born to shop, Edie made the decision to own a shop filed with fashion-forward merchandise. After scouting the area, her son Frank D., a realtor with Caldwell Banker, found her the perfect location. “I signed the lease, and hit the road shopping,” she continued. “New merchandise comes in every day. At Bittersweet Design, we like to think we have the perfect gift to suit any and all occasions.”  

 

From fabulous shawls, and wallets, to teeny reading glasses, to designer belts to suit ever area of our wardrobe, to candles, and decorative rings, it’s all there. Fans of sunflowers are able to purchase decorative pillows in cranberry red blazing with gorgeous yellow blooms. You’ll also like the array of Mariposa silver plates carved in sunflower designs. They’re the perfect answer to decorative serving pieces for sandwiches and sweet treats. Purchase Mariposa chickadee salt and pepper shakers for your own use, or treat friends or family with a special gift they’ll treasure.  

 

Visit the New Born section. Jam packed with darling gifts for the baby, choose shawls, blankets, tooth fairy boxes, cups and bowls, and cuddly stuffed animal.  Don’t forget Grandma. She’ll love a fabulous leather photo envelope for her purse. They come in joyous colors of pink, jeweled green, lavender, and black. They are also generously priced. Just half of what you’d pay in a more expensive shop. Need an evening bag? You’ll find it difficult to make a choice. An entire section is literally filled with the perfect purse to match your glamorous outfit.

 

Location: Bittersweet Design, 212 Lenox Avenue, Westfield Phone: (908) 389-0330 Hours: Open: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.  Description: Located just around the corner from the Westfield Post Office, Bittersweet Design is chock full of everything you must have at a price you can easily afford. . FYI: Major credit cards accepted. Glorious gift wrapping

The February Issue of Westfield Today, Downtown Westfield's email newsletter is now available. Click here to read the latest issue.

 

Sign up for future issues.

 

By Millicent K. Brody for www.thealternativepress.com

2/10/2010

 

It’s time for the Official 2010 Celebration of Restaurant Week, $20$10. For one week, that is Sunday, February 21 through all day Saturday, February 27th, you will be able to dine in Downtown Westfield for the mere price of $20 for a two course dinner, and $10 for a two course lunch. (Beverages, dessert, tax and gratuities are not included. Check www.WestfieldToday.com for a complete listing of all participating restaurants and some exclusions.)

 

"We all need a special reason to celebrate the New Year, 2010," said Sherry Cronin Executive Director of Downtown Westfield Corporation (DWC). "Some of our favorite best and trendiest restaurants are doing all they can to welcome us for an affordable lunch or dinner. During Restaurant Week, you may enjoy a selection of great meals all around Downtown Westfield for either $10 for lunch or $20 for dinner."

 

In addition, the DWC is offering a random drawing for a $20 Gift Certificate for each participating restaurant, as well as a bonus $10 Westfield Parking Card. Imagine, two drawings per restaurant, and YOU may be one of the lucky winners!

 

Drawings will take place at the end of Restaurant Week. ALL diners who complete a Restaurant Week form are eligible to win. You must provide your email address to be eligible for the bonus drawing for the Parking Card. Just fill out your entry form during or after your meal at any participating restaurant. 

 

Executive Chef and an Owner of Ferraro’s, Giuseppe di Pietro has been working diligently on his menu.  "Many of our favorite dishes will be featured to honor the occasion," he said. "You’ll be able to order your favorite Chicken Giuseppi and Ana’s famous sausage lasagna all-week-long. Imagine 7 whole days and nights of your favorite dishes at a very special price. Should you wish to dine on the more formal side, be sure to call for reservations: 908.232.1105."

 

"Visitors are always welcome to come and be part of the family tradition on our casual side," he adds. "Please remember, drinks, dessert, coffee, tax and tip are extra."

 

"We’re looking forward to Restaurant Week," said George Vastardis, proprietor of Limani Seafood Grill, 235 North Avenue W. "We believe Restaurant Week allows us the opportunity to showcase the great food and service we have to offer. During this special week, people who don’t ordinarily get out to lunch or dinner have the option to experience our restaurant. At Limani, we’re offering the "Best-of-Our Best". Please remember to call for reservations, and we’ll be happy to serve you." (908.233.0052)

 

"All of the participants are really excited about celebrating Westfield’s Second Annual Restaurant Week," said Jamie Lemberg, Online Marketing Manager for Downtown Westfield Corporation. "They are looking forward to all of the excitement generated by the occasion."

 

Sonny Acquaviva of Acquaviva delle fonti, 115 Elm Street, (908.301.0700), has very special offerings for Restaurant $20$10: "We change our list of specials daily, so people can look forward to new and exciting dishes all week. We’re really happy to celebrate Restaurant Week, $20$10," he said.

 

Adding to the pleasure of the event, CoolVines will be offering wine pairings for each BYO Restaurant. In addition, they will be offering a 10% discount to anyone who mentions Westfield Restaurant Week.

 

For the complete story, visit http://www.thealternativepress.com/article.asp?news=9899&Celebrate-Downtown-Westfield-Restaurant-Week-$20$10

 

Photo: Sonny Acquaiva awaits friends for $20$10 Restaurant Week. Photo courtesy of Millicent K. Brody

 

As published in NJ Monthly Magazine, Posted February 17, 2010 by Jessica Remo.

 

It’s no secret to savvy Union County shoppers: The preppy, Main Street-vibe of downtown Westfield is the perfect alternative to the hassle and drear of the mall. And because it’s a bona fide dining town, refueling is easy—and requires no food court.

 

Shop till you drop: Besides mall-standard chains (Gap, Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, to name a few) and a big-name department store (Lord & Taylor), this downtown is full of cute independent boutiques. Fashionable ladies will want to peruse the goods at spots like Menina (27 East Broad St., 908-654-0358) and accessories boutique Rhain (129 East Broad St., 908-518-0700). To really splurge, complete the ensemble with a pair of imported-Italian stilettos from upscale shoe store Sole (201 East Broad St., 908-654-7800, italiansole.com). Equally stylish men will appreciate the custom-tailored shirts and suits at John Robert (31 East Broad St., 908-232-9511). And for hip baby and kid gear (think teeny Led Zeppelin tees), check out Pumpkins & Petunias (258 East Broad St., 908-654-1600, pumpkinsandpetunias.com), which is way more rock ’n’ roll than its name suggests.

Great for gifts: The Farmhouse Store (221 East Broad St., 908-654-0444, thefarmhousestore.com) is fun even if you don’t buy a thing. The expansive shop is made for browsing and packed to the gills with handmade furniture, pottery, textiles, art, jewelry, and, naturally, those oh-so-farmhouse-y barn stars. In business since 1934, The Town Book Store (270 East Broad St., 908-233-3535, townbookstore.com) is the last independent bookstore in the county, and also hosts author meet-and-greets several times a month.

Take a hike: When you’ve had enough shopping, stroll through picturesque Mindowaskin Park (East Broad St. and Park Dr.), just steps from the main strip. You’ll probably spot prom-goers or brides and grooms taking photos beneath the bandstand, along the bridge or in front of the pond. Kids will love its playground, and everyone loves the summer concert series.

Bring your own: Westfield dining is mostly BYO, and Cool Vines (23 Elm St., 908-232-5050, coolvines.com) is your friendly neighborhood sommelier—literally: The first shelves you’ll see are the shop’s “Restaurant Row” picks, bottles they suggest to pair with the cuisine at different local restaurants. Even better, staffers are friendly and unintimidating (whether your wine knowledge tends to novice or oenophile), they host free weekly tastings, and bottles are organized by taste instead of region, for easier browsing. No wonder the place won our award for Best of NJ 2009.


Stay for dinner: The Brick Oven (BYOB, 117 Quimby St., 908-317-9500) serves up Italian trattoria fare with yummy thin-crust pizza (fresh out of the wood-burning oven, of course), pasta, and lots of daily specials, all at an reasonable price. 16 Prospect (16 Prospect St., 908-232-7320, 16prospect.com) offers small plates perfect for sampling and sharing (there are full-size entrees, too) and live music most nights. For fancy, authentic French, try the perennially award-winning Chez Catherine (431 North Ave. West, 908-654-4011, chezcatherine.com). Seafood-centric Limani (BYOB, 235 North Ave., 908-233-0052), the Greek word for port, is a local favorite for its raw bar and fresh fish.

Don’t forget dessert: One square block in this downtown is a chocoholic’s dream and a dieter’s nightmare. The proof is in the giant cupcakes at Crumbs Bake Shop (130 East Broad St., 908-232-5527, crumbs.com), the homemade truffles at Brummer’s Chocolates (125 East Broad St., 908-232-1904), the yummy Italian cookies at Bovella’s Pastry Shoppe (101 East Broad St., 908-232-4149), and the best gelato this side of Italy (try the dulce de leche) at The Chocolate Bar (112 Quimby St., 908-389-9000).

 

Photo by: James Kirkikis

 

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:  http://www.westfieldtoday.com/system/organization/138/attachments/2010_DWC_Newsletter_original.pdf?1266869092

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)

Check out our new Stimulus Wall of Art in the gallery! We will offer different pieces of art each week at drastically reduced prices. Stop in weekly so you son't miss out on some great deals. After one week on the stimulus wall, the art  will return to it's regular price.

The Downtown Westfield Corporation (DWC) has just concluded its first ever winter Restaurant Week with excellent results. The event was held from February 21 to March 4 and included two-course dinners for $20 and two-course lunches for $10. Over 20 restaurants in the downtown area participated in the event, and Cool Vines offered 10% off their wine during the week.

 

Though the event was originally scheduled to end February 27, the event was extended an extra five days due to inclement weather. The blizzard did not deter guests from enjoying the event, however, as many local residents and far away visitors were able to sample some of Westfield’s finest cuisine.  Participating restaurants included:  16 Prospect Wine Bar & Bistro, Acquaviva delle fonti, The Brick Oven, Boulevard Bistro, Cheeburger Cheeburger, Clyne & Murphy, Cosimo’s, Ferarro’s, Gabi’s Sushi & Noodles, Isabella’s American Bistro, Jeffrey’s of Westfield, Limani Seafood Grill, Mojave Grill, The Office Beer Bar and Grill, Robert Treat Deli, Rockn’ Joe Coffeehouse + Bistro, Shogun Wok, Splash of Thai, Theresa’s, Tinga Taqueria, and Windmill.

 

Almost 500 guests from all of the participating restaurants completed entry forms for a random drawing sponsored by the Downtown Westfield Corporation for a $20 gift certificate and a bonus drawing for a $10 parking card. The drawings were recently held and the following winners were announced:  $20 restaurant gift certificates: Jane Ambrosia, John Corbin, Marie Elaine Degnan, Johnny Gil, Judy Johnston, Helen Leong, Scott Loucks, Liz Morgan, Jennifer Novy, Nicole Radumski, Don Seeley, Mary Shea, Bailey Verdone, Donna Walsh and Alec Wasserman. $10 parking card contest: Hank Bartolf, David Buckman, Jill Carnucci, Bret Coffey, Sheri Goldszeft, Paul Hymanson, Ken Kandigian, Peter Lagatta, Patty McGuire, Danielle Mirzwa, Barbara Mitchell, Ankita Patel, Debra Schranck, Nicholas Smith and Eileen Spitler.

 

According to Saul Drittel, DWC Promotions Chairman, “The contest component of Restaurant Week was very interesting.  While almost half of the entrants were from Westfield, we drew visitors from all over Union County and almost 20% came from areas outside of Union County including shore towns.  Winners of the contest were particularly thrilled when they learned they would be welcomed back with a gift certificate to the participating restaurant and/or a refillable parking card.  We look forward to building this momentum at the next Restaurant Week planned for the week of September 19.”

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.

America in Bloom competition planning has begun to prepare for the judges' visit in July. Named "Westfield in Bloom", community organizations, volunteers, DPW staff and committees will continue to beautify our community with plantings and hanging baskets, landscaping, tidiness, etc. Volunteers and interested organizations should contact co-chairs Sherry Cronin at the DWC s.cronin@westfieldtoday.com or David Williams of Williams Nursery at dave@williamsnursery.com.  

Wednesday March 24, 2010 -- Eric Asimov of the NY Times, writes in today's column..."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: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/24/dining/24pour.html

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 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 

The Westfield Running Company, located at 17 Elm St., has moved to a larger space at 123 Quimby St., the former home of Blue Tulip. The Running Company joins the growing list of local downtown retailers moving to larger quarters and expanding their businesses in Westfield, even during these tough economic times. They are following the footsteps of Xocolatz, Sole, The Farmhouse Store, Westfield Sleep Center, and Cosimo's upcoming expansion. Visit the new store! 123 Quimby St., 908.654.9900. www.therunningcompany.net

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 9th annual Downtown Westfield 5K & Pizza Extravaganza will be held on July 21, 2010 with a start time of 7:00 pm.  This year for the first time, the race will be pre-registration only by July 17. All on-line registrations close at midnight on July 17, and all mailed entries must be postmarked by July 15. T-shirts and d-tag pick up can be picked up as early as 5:00 pm on race day. 
 
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.

 

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!   

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.

 

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

 

 

 

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 Westfield Historical Society held its 41^st 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.

 

 

The “Sweet Sounds Downtown” Jazz Festival, sponsored by the Downtown Westfield Corporation (DWC), kicks off their 14^th annual season in downtown Westfield, NJ.  The performances will take place on sidewalks and street corners, for nine consecutive weeks, every Tuesday, starting on July 6^th and going through August 31 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.  Rain dates will be the following Wednesday evenings at the same time. Bands will be located on Central Avenue next to Banana Republic, the lawn in front of the North Avenue Train Station, the corner of East Broad and Prospect Streets, and Elm Street in front of the Baptist Church. 

 

“Sweet Sounds Downtown is extremely popular for all ages. From contemporary or traditional jazz to blues to big band, there are live performances to please everyone.” said Sherry Cronin, DWC Executive Director.  “The event is great for businesses downtown on Tuesday night.”  According to Beth Brenner, Assistant Executive Director, “We have a mix of great bands which played in past festivals as well as new bands this year.  Sweet Sounds has become so popular that we have to turn away many talented groups.”

 

The Sweet Sounds Downtown Jazz Festival schedule of performers is as follows:

 

Tuesday, July 6:

-          The Full Count Big Band - Central Ave

-          Karl Latham Group - E. Broad St. & North Ave.

-          Karen Rodriguez Latin Jazz Ensemble - Elm Street

-          Filthy Rich and the Poor Boys - North Ave.

 

Tuesday, July 13: 

-          David Aaron Quintet - Central Ave.

-          Michael Packer Blues Band - E. Broad St. & North Ave.

-          Carrie Jackson - Elm Street

-          Mike Kaplan Nonet - North Ave.

Tuesday, July 20:

-          Taino - Central Ave.

-          B.D. Lenz - E. Broad St. & North Ave.

-          Patty Cronheim Ensemble - Elm St.

-          Chris Colaneri Quintet - North Ave.

 

Tuesday, July 27:

-          Marlene VerPlanck - Central Ave.

-          Glenn Alexander Trio - E. Broad St. & North Ave.

-          Gordon James - Elm St.

-          Richard Reiter Swing Band - North Ave.

 

Tuesday, August 3:

-          Jazz Lobsters - Central Ave.

-          Justin Derman Jazz Trio - E. Broad St. & North Ave.

-          La Balteuband - Elm St.

-          Scarlett Lee Moore - North Ave.

 

Tuesday, August 10: 

-          Dr. Dubious and the Agnostics - Central Ave.

-          Too Blue Lou and the Groove - E. Broad St. & North Ave.

-          Lauren Shub Trio - Elm St.

-          Radam Schwartz - North Ave.

 

Tuesday, August 17: 

-          Nicole Hart - Central Ave.

-          Eric Mintel Quartet - E. Broad St. & Central Ave.

-          Bradford Hayes - Elm St.

-          Roxy Perry - North Ave.

 

Tuesday, August 24:

-          Jimmy Jazz - Central Ave.

-          Jerry Topinka - E. Broad St. & North Ave.

-          Les Jumelles Jazz - Elm St.

-          Sandy Mack Band - North Ave.

 

Tuesday, August 31:

-          Pam Purvis and the Blues Skies Band - Central Ave.

-          Pat Cuttitta Quintet - E. Broad St. & North Ave.

-          Dave Leonhardt Trio - Elm St.

-          Grupo Yuri - North Ave.

 

 

While enjoying the musical performances of “Sweet Sounds Downtown”, enjoy dining at one of Westfield’s fine restaurants or shop and stroll through downtown.  For more information about Westfield and other downtown events taking place, call the DWC at (908) 789-9444 for free a Destination Westfield brochure including a shopping, dining and service directory as well as an events calendar or visit their web site at www.WestfieldToday.com for further details. 

 

 

Photo caption:  The Full Count Big Band will be performing at the opening night of the14^th Annual Sweet Sounds Downtown Jazz Festival on July 6.  Four different band performances take place each Tuesday evening from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm (Raindate Wednesdays) from July 6 through August 31. For a full schedule, visit www.WestfieldToday.com.  Photo credit: Cheri Rogowsky.

 

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. 

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

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.

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.

August Staff Picks

 

Labor Day

 

Her Fearful Symmetry

 

The Tennis Partner

 

The Beach Trip

 

The Quickening

 

How We Decide

 

The Devlin Diary

 

Half the Sky

 

In Cold Blood

 

For more information about each book, visit http://www.townbookstore.com/bookpicks.sql

Troupe of Friends presents its annual free Shakespeare in the Park production. This year - our show is a rollicking romp through time - the jubilant farce known as the Merry Wives of Windsor - set in the Westfield of 1961!

Come join us for three free peformances in Mindowaskin Park on Labor Day weekend.

Show times: Friday and Saturday, September 3 and 4 at 7:30pm, Sunday September 5th matinee at 2pm

Bring a blanket our lawn chair and enjoy this hilarious comedy which tells the story of the beloved knight Falsttaff and his attempts at wooing two Westfield Wives simultaneously!

 

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.

Call now to reserve your spot (908) 233-1381 for any of their upcoming events.

 

Alex Giant Paper Flower Play Day , Thursday, August 5, 2010 at 5:00pm

 

Silly Bandz Trading Event. Monday, August 9, 2010 at 2:30pm 

 

Calico Critters Play Day. Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at 5:00pm

 

Fancy Nancy Play Day, Thursday, August 12, 2010 at 6:00pm

 

Come to Lord & Taylor for a kids 'back to school' fashion show at 3pm on August 21, 2010. Local Westfield kids in grades 1-6 will be modeling. Don't miss it! 609 North Ave. W., 908.233.6600. 

 

 

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. 

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.

 

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 25^th at 8.00pm

The Presbyterian Church in Westfield, NJ

Tickets $25-$70

 

www.westfieldsymphony.org

(August 31, 2010) – On Wednesday, September 15 at 7:00 p.m., storytellers and writers will converge at the Westfield Memorial Library for another MothUP, a new type of storytelling event. The theme for the evening is “Fall Memories,” such as the first day of school or a disastrous hayride.

The phenomenal popularity of New York City's, “The Moth,” has inspired this program. The Moth is an event in which people get up and tell five-minute, true stories based on a particular theme. All the stories are told in front of an audience, without notes, scripts or cheat sheets and should be a true, first-person account.

The names of ten individuals from the audience who have prepared stories are picked randomly from a hat. Each storyteller has five minutes to share his or her story. A team of judges, chosen from the audience, gives a score.

To get a better idea of how this evening works, participants should go to themoth.org for inspiration.

The Moth, a not-for-profit storytelling organization, was founded in New York in 1997 by poet and novelist George Dawes Green, who wanted to recreate in New York the feeling of sultry summer evenings on his native St. Simon's Island, Georgia, where he and a small circle of friends would gather to spin spellbinding tales on his friend Wanda's porch.

After moving to New York, George missed the sense of connection he had felt sharing stories with his friends back home, and he decided to invite a few friends over to his New York apartment to tell and hear stories. Thus the first 'Moth' evening took place in his living room.

 

The program is open to Westfield Memorial Library and MURAL card holders.

Register by visiting www.wmlnj.org and clicking on Online Calendar, or call 908.789.4090 X 4140.

 

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.”

 

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 and dungeons beneath the Paris Opera.Saturday October 30th, 8.00pm at the The Presbyterian Church in Westfield, NJ. Tickets are $25-$70.

 

MONSTER MUSIC will feature the movie of Lon Chaney in The Phantom of the Opera set to Mozart – Symphony No.40 in G minor.

 

Don't miss the Halloween costume contest with cash prizes. 

 

Westfield Symphony Orchestra

westfieldsymphony.org

908.232.9400