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🌱 Patch AM: Bennett Launches Bid For West Orange Town Council: 2026 Election

Be sure to catch Unemployed? Obtain a Free Training Grant for Top Certifications on the West Orange Patch calendar

Friday May 22nd Patch AM

Hello West Orange! Stay connected with the latest updates from around town. Let's dive in! ☀️

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In today's newsletter:

  • Longtime resident launches 2026 bid to reshape West Orange council priorities
  • Will West Orange get more say over what’s in mosquito spray?
  • When will Trader Joe’s finally open its doors in West Orange?

Also on today's calendar: Unemployed? Obtain a Free Training Grant for Top Certifications and 9 more events.

Today's riddle: Why did the weatherman's cheeks turn pink? 🤔 (Answer below!)


Weather forecast:

  • Friday: Considerable cloudiness, with a high of 66 and low of 52 degrees.
  • Saturday: Cooler with rain, temps: high: 53, low: 49.
  • Sunday: Rain; breezy in the morning, with a high of 58 and low of 55 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Bennett Launches Bid For West Orange Town Council: 2026 Election (patch.com) — West Orange residents are getting an early look at attorney and social worker Micaela Bennett, who has launched a 2026 run for township council after more than two decades in town. She’s centering her campaign on transparency, fiscal responsibility, redevelopment of the Edison Complex, and protecting quality of life for West Orange families, seniors, and taxpayers. Bennett highlights concerns over rising costs, accountability in local government, and long-term planning for services, safety, and sustainability.    

2. NJ Bill Would Regulate Mosquito Spraying, Require Public Disclosure Of Chemicals (patch.com) — West Orange residents could soon get more advance notice and detail about mosquito spraying chemicals if a new statewide bill moves forward, echoing concerns raised by a local councilwoman. The measure would require counties and commercial sprayers to disclose dates and specific pesticides at least five days ahead. Essex County already uses several products locally and offers tips to reduce mosquitoes at home.    

3. Is Trader Joe's coming to your neighborhood? 25 new stores announced (cleveland.com) — A new Trader Joe’s is officially planned for West Orange, giving local shoppers another nearby option for groceries and specialty items. The chain announced at least 25 new U.S. locations, including West Orange, though exact opening dates and hiring details have not yet been released.    

4. 2026 NJ boys lacrosse state tournament brackets (northjersey.com) — West Orange boys lacrosse has drawn a tough road matchup as the 15-seed visiting 2-seed Westfield in the 2026 NJSIAA state tournament. The full statewide brackets are set to become official at noon on May 22, outlining every public and non-public playoff pairing across New Jersey.    


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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Kimco Facility Services, LLC posted a job opening for Janitorial Crew Member in West Orange. Apply here.
  • Dunkin' posted a job opening for Shift Leader in West Orange. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near West Orange here.

Ok West Orange! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: He saw the climate change! (Thank you Gary M. for sending it in!)Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!


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