A panel of Westfield elders share insights and experiences that span almost a century in our town. Glean perspectives and understanding.  Panelists include Mary Withers, Wallace Brown, Gladys Edwards and Joyce Pretlow. Library Director Allen McGinley will moderate the discussion.

About the panelists:
Mary Withers, a longtime resident of Westfield, was one of the founders of the Westfield Neighborhood Council (WNC) in 1967 and is presently on its Board of Directors.  She is also a member of the Westfield Historical Society.  She is the former owner of Blackberry’s Catering in Plainfield and established in Westfield as a caterer specializing in Southern foods.

Wallace Brown, a Korean War veteran, was born in Westfield in 1931. He was the first African American Special Agent in the Criminal Investigation Division in New Jersey and served on the Secret Service Presidential Detail.  He has been a longtime member of the Centennial Elks Lodge and has served as president and trustee of the Westfield Community Center.

Gladys Edwards celebrated her 100^th birthday in August 2023 and has lived in Westfield for over 60 years. She served on the Board of Directors of the Westfield Community Center, was the Secretary of the Negro History Club, volunteered at the McKinley School Library, was a cub scout den mother, and has been a member of the MLK Association of Westfield for many decades.

Joyce Pretlow is a lifelong Westfield resident. She has served with the Westfield Community Center for over 40 years as its former President of the Board of Directors and current trustee. She is a member of the Westfield Historical Society, including the Westfield 300 African American History subcommittee, and a longtime member of Bethel Baptist Church.