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.