Westfield Area Podcast

Acting as an advisor for a local community service club, Westfield High School math teacher Zorana Culjak is paying it forward to the country that gave her sanctuary by instilling a lifelong commitment to good works in those around her. Also this month, the town marked the 20th annual running of the popular Downtown Westfield 5K & Pizza Extravaganza. The beloved event, which profiles Westfield businesses and attracts hundreds of runners and spectators, has been on pause for the last two years as a result of the pandemic. Plus, a look back at a strong, local advocate for seniors who is addressing the needs of older adults in our community through affordable programs and services at the Westfield Community Center.

Thanks to the passion and dedication of Velvet Rogers, a strong advocate for senior citizens, the Westfield Community Center is addressing the needs of older adults in our community through affordable programs and services. Also this month, the Rotary Club of Westfield presented $113,000 in college scholarships to 14 Westfield students who met several rigorous requirements including academic promise and a strong commitment to community service. Plus, a look back at the Westfield High School Student Assistance Counselor who aims to raise awareness about mental health issues affecting student’s lives and the school community by removing any stigma associated with mental illness and wellbeing.

To mark Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re shining a bright spotlight on Westfield High School’s new Student Assistance Counselor, Christine Trottere, who is prioritizing the wellbeing of students and local families not just during the month of May, but all year long. Also this month, after two years of virtual racing, the annual Greta’s Run returns to the streets of Westfield. Plus, a look at a local flag football program that has influenced thousands of Westfield residents by instilling in them good sportsmanship, fair play and service to the less fortunate.

Under the direction of Police Athletic League President John Dugan, what started as a flag football program for under 70 young Westfield athletes more than 20 years ago, has evolved into a program that has influenced thousands of Westfield residents by instilling in them good sportsmanship, fair play and service to the less fortunate. Also this month, positive developments are in the works for Downtown Westfield highlighting an optimistic trend for local businesses and patrons. Plus, a local mom’s quick actions has helped provide much-needed aid and hope for those caught in the ongoing Ukrainian conflict.

Efforts to support those impacted by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine are spearheaded by a local Westfield, NJ, resident with close ties to the war-torn country. Donations of clothing, medical supplies and other essential items poured in thanks to her quick actions, offering much-needed aid and hope for those caught in the Ukrainian crisis. Also this month, how about those Westfield High School Blue Devils? Starting with the soccer team, the girls athletes have been racking up an impressive trove of trophies across multiple sports. Plus, we check in with Frank D. Isoldi of The Isoldi Collection and Coldwell Banker Realty, to get his perspective on the Westfield Area’s strong community spirit and positive outlook as we all look to move past the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic.