Are you ready for some … homecoming? We urge you to plan to attend the Oct. 3 festivities that kick off homecoming week at Westfield High School. The “Rock’n into the Future” Parade will begin at 5:30 p.m. at the football field and will end at the east side of the high school. Shamrock Boulevard will be closed at 3:30 p.m. to allow for the parade to pass unimpeded. Take in the club and organization floats, class derby cars, sports teams, cheerleaders, the WHS marching band, dancers, The Rock Boys, hot cars and the 2013 homecoming court.
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It was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Westfield resident Rick Gray, who died at home at age 54 on Sept. 4. His wife of 31 years, Catherine; his sons, Brian and Colin; and his daughter, Allison, survive him. One of us knew Rick as the ultimate family man, one who also seemingly was a part of all things Westfield and a veteran pharmacist. He was a Cub and Webelo scout leader; he coached soccer and baseball; and he always volunteered wherever possible. He was proud to tell you he was from Westfield and was quick to lend a hand to anyone in need. The nearly two-hour wait at the calling for him last week was testament to what he meant to so many. In his memory, donations may be made to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America, 386 Park Ave. South, 17th floor, New York, N.Y. 10016-8804.
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Word has arrived that during the summer a charity soccer tournament, that included Westfield and teams from seven other schools, raised $8,800 for St.Vincent Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital. On Sept. 7, a check was presented to hospital representatives. It’s selfless, pay-forward efforts such as this that make a difference in our community.