Cranford|News|
Former Jaycees Director, Organic Chemist, Ralph J. Leary, Diest at 84
Leary was the former director of the Analytical Research Department at Exxon Research and Engineering in Linden.

Nicole Bitette is the editor for the Westfield and Cranford Patch sites. Nicole began at Patch in August 2012. Prior to covering Westfield and Cranford, Nicole was the Assistant Editor for Union County, focusing mostly on Scotch Plains-Fanwood and briefly Summit. She also spent several months covering Woodbridge Township. Nicole graduated from Seton Hall University, Cum Laude, with a B.A. in Journalism.
Before starting at Patch, she tried out the New York magazine world, by working as an Editorial Assistant for the national shelter magazine, Traditional Home Magazine, due to her interest in design and home decorating. However, Nicole came back to her love for local news at the number one place for it, here at Patch!
In the past few years she has worked for The Setonian, the official campus newspaper of Seton Hall and WSOU, the award winning radio station at Seton Hall.
She has also written for an online local news publication, The Alternative Press, in Maplewood and South Orange.
Right now she is trying to get to know who's who in Westfield and she looks forward to meeting you. Please do not hesitate to email or call her with any possible stories or concerns.
Email her at: nicole.bitette@patch.com
Leary was the former director of the Analytical Research Department at Exxon Research and Engineering in Linden.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will also visit Westfield on Thanksgiving weekend for photos.
A meeting was held on Monday evening to discuss designating the house as a local historic landmark.
Summit bested Gov. Livingston Saturday, while the Cougars advance after defeating Palisades Park on Friday night.
The Cougars advance after defeating Palisades Park on Friday night.
Alex Levy constructed and installed a backboard at the Hillside Avenue School tennis courts as part of his Eagle Scout service project.
The Cranford Jaycees continued their annual tradition of decorating Eastman Plaza on Saturday.
Voting ends on Dec. 18.
The business is looking to start construction soon.
A second helicopter also landed Friday in Tamaques Park for an incident in Clark.
Commander Paul received the Bronze Star Medal among numerous other awards.
A look at this week's events in Westfield.
A look at what's happening in Cranford this week.
A look at who's hiring in Westfield.
A look at who's hiring in Cranford.
The event was a huge success, according to coordinators.
Search continues for slain mother's remains, Memorial Field bathroom construction also make headlines.
Westfield event planner featured in New York Times, junior varsity volleyball team wins county title also make headlines.
Ideas that have grown in the Garden State will be discussed on Nov. 24.
The fundraiser will feature vendors and live entertainment.