Cranford Life - April 2024

CRANFORDLIFE

Chapman is 2nd in state

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Egg huntin’ in the pool

‘Fire & Ice’ in Cranford

Cranford student helps save a man’s life

Joseph Giaccio of Cranford, Nicholas Garguilo of Smithtown, N.Y., and Shannen Moore of Long Beach, N.Y., all graduate students in the Nurse Anesthesia Program at Hofstra University, recognized the need to test their life-saving skills during a break in between classes.

While driving to a coffee shop in Hempstead, N.Y., the students turned down a residential street and noticed a cute dog. They then realized a man was lying on the sidewalk next to it and he did not appear to be moving.

“Our instincts kicked in and, thankfully, we had experience in training and in medicine, and we were able to help,” Garguilo said.

Garguilo and Moore quickly assessed the elderly man and found him conscious but somewhat confused and bleeding from a fall.

“I don’t think you really have to be an expert in medicine, but having basic first aid skills, you can perform life-saving measures,” Garguilo continued.

“Other than CPR, if he had needed that, or applying pressure, we’re limited in what we can do, but we were able to be there and make the experience a little bit less traumatic,” Moore said.

The man was able to tell the students where he lived, which was not far from the scene. Giaccio then went to the man’s home to get his wife, after first calling 9-1-1.

“She was clearly upset that her husband was hurt, but we were able to give her comfort,” Moore said.

The three stayed with the couple until the ambulance arrived and they were safely inside.

“The training we have had through the Hofstra program and at Northwell really prepared us for this situation,” Giaccio said.

“We were each able to remain calm, communicate and assume a necessary role based on the situation as we assessed the environment,” Garguilo added.

"Nick, Joe and Shannen demonstrate

the true embodiment of the spirit of the nurse anesthesia profession as supported by the Hofstra Northwell School of Nursing,” said Sabrina Petrillo, interim director of the Nurse Anesthesia Program and assistant professor of nursing. “Their work ethic, kindness and passion for care has made a positive impression, not only

on the faculty and their classmates, but on the Hofstra community around them. I am so proud to say they are a reflection of the impact CRNAs have on their patients and deserve to be acknowledged for their contributions.”

One coffee run led these three students to be in the right place at the right time.

Photo Courtesy of Hofstra University

From left are Hofstra University students Joseph Giaccio of Cranford, Nicholas Garguilo of Smithtown, N.Y., and Shannen Moore of Long Beach, N.Y., who recently used their life-saving skills to help save a man’s life.

Cruz honored as NJYS TOPSoccer Volunteer of the Year

New Jersey Youth Soccer continues its celebration of the 2024 NJYS Awards presented by RWJBarnabas Health, officially recognizing Diane Cruz of Cranford Soccer Club as the NJYS TOPSoccer Volunteer of the Year.

TOPSoccer — The Outreach Program for Soccer — is a recreational sports program for children with intellectual, emotional and physical disabilities. Developed by US Youth Soccer, TOPSoccer provides an opportunity for those with diverse abilities to play the game in a structured environment that is safe, fun, supportive and inclusive.

“I am truly honored to be recognized as the NJYS TOPSoccer Volunteer of the Year,” Cruz said. “I want to thank NJYS, RWJBarnabas Health, Cranford Soccer Club and the Cranford community for all their support of this program. My goal when bringing TOPSoccer to our community was to create more inclusivity through soccer, but we have achieved so much more. This award is a celebration of the collective efforts of our community in fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of ability, experiences the joy of participation and belonging.”

Cruz has been an integral member of the Cranford Soccer Club Board for more than 10 years. She led efforts to bring TOPSoccer to Cranford and has run a very successful program. She was heavily involved in the program’s logistical imple-

coaches grouped by interest level and ability, as well as refereeing games herself, have all contributed to the success of the program. In her years as director of TOPSoccer at Cranford Soccer Club, Cruz has been to nearly all monthly board meetings to ensure that TOPSoccer was represented and had a “seat at the table.”

Soccer is a passion throughout the Cruz family and Diane has two children who play for Cranford Soccer Club, including one son who is both a player and certified referee. As a teacher for Cranford Public Schools, Cruz has always put the needs of others before her own and she is an established mentor of young children in the Cranford community.

mentation into the Cranford Soccer Club framework and she also obtained grants for the program, doing all of this work as a non-compensated volunteer. Since its launch, the focus of the program has been on the athlete experience, encouraging the development of social skills and teamwork while modeling perseverance and instilling confidence in the participants.

Her mission when starting TOPSoccer at Cranford Soccer Club was to provide a soccer experience for children with disabilities that was similar to what every athlete receives from the club. This included new equipment, paid professional trainers and full uniform kits with their names on them. Her thoughtful selection of athlete “Buddies” and

In addition to a plaque to commemorate her achievement, Cruz was treated to a congratulatory video tribute from Skip Gilbert, CEO of US Youth Soccer, that was played on video screens for the awards dinner audience to enjoy. She also received a custom ball from SIGND displaying a QR code that provided access to her personalized video.

NJ Youth Soccer recently had its 2024 NJYS annual awards dinner presented by RWJBarnabas Health, where many players, coaches and guests of the soccer community were on hand at the Pines Manor in Edison. With more than 1,000 attendees, the event saw a capacity crowd for the annual celebration.

Photo Courtesy of Cos Lymperopoulos

Diane Cruz, center, is pictured with Lou Mignone and Jonathan Yee of NJ Youth Soccer at the 2024 NJYS Awards presented by RWJBarnabas Health.

Chapman finishes second in the state at 165 pounds

By JR Parachini Sports Editor

Although he was down 8-2 just moments into the third and final period Jordan Chapman was still in position to make his best move of the season.

Chapman had a good, strong hold of Delbarton School junior Alessio Perentin and then the strength to take him down rather quickly. However, before Chapman could continue to try to pin Perentin to the mat, whistles blew as the refs saw Perentin’s neck twist awkwardly when he landed.

Chapman scored two points for the takedown to get to within 8-4, but that was as close as the Cranford High School standout would get. Perentin rebounded to take down Chapman with a little more than a minute to go for an 11-4 advantage, en route to what would be a decisive 12-7 decision.

“You’re talking about two very accomplished wrestlers going at it,” Cranford head coach Pat Gorman said. “They are elite athletes.”

For the second straight season, Perentin, one of seven grapplers from state champion Delbarton to reach the state finals, was a New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association Tournament champion.

The top two-ranked wrestlers in their weight class clashed for the first and only time this season in the 165pound championship match on Saturday, March 2, at the season-ending NJSIAA Tournament at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City. Perentin, ranked No. 1 and the top seed, won the bout against No. 2-ranked and second-seeded Chapman by winning the first period 7-1. Perentin’s first takedown came just 30 seconds in, although Chapman answered immediately by turning Perentin over.

“Someone was going to try to build a lead and it turned out to be that Alessio did,” Gorman said. “In the

School

Perentin in the NJSIAA Tournament 165-pound final on Saturday, March 2, at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City. Chapman lost 12-7 to finish second in the state. Chapman went 42-3 this year and will take a 119-11 lifetime record into his senior season next year.

first period, we gave up too many points. It cancelled out our top wrestling.”

While Chapman showed his strength, Perentin proved to be the better wrestler that day. Two of the top junior wrestlers in the state may be on a collision course to bat-

tle again next year as seniors and even beyond that.

“This is a learning curve for us,” Gorman said. “Alessio is, obviously, a very good wrestler.”

Perentin, who will continue wrestling in college in the Ivy League at Cornell University, finished his junior season at 39-2. Perentin won his first state championship last year at 157 pounds, while Chapman lost in the semifinals and then wrestled back to place third at 157 pounds. Both also reached the NJSIAA Tournament as freshmen two years ago, Perentin finishing as a finalist.

Chapman, who is a Rutgers University commit, produced an outstanding junior season himself, finishing 42-2. His lifetime record is now 119-11, including 35-5 as a freshman and 42-4 as a sophomore. Chapman’s only other loss this year came at December’s annual Beast of the East Tournament at the University of Delaware, where Chapman reached the semifinals and his only loss was to a Pennsylvania state champion.

“Jordan now has one year left,” Gorman said. “This will put a little chip on his shoulder. All the stuff we do in our room doesn’t go wasted.”

For the second straight season, Chapman was a Union County Tournament, District and Region 4 champion. He has won two UCT titles, three district crowns and two region championships.

Chapman has one more year to become Cranford’s fifth state champion and first since Pat Hogan won at 171 pounds in 2006.

In the preliminary and pre-quarter final rounds on Thursday, Feb. 29, Chapman won by fall in 33 and 57 seconds. Then, on Friday, March 1, in the quarterfinals and semifinals, Chapman won by major decision and then by technical fall.

Three Union County wrestlers reached the NJSIAA

Photo Courtesy of Cranford head coach Pat Gorman Cranford High School standout junior wrestler Jordan Chapman, bottom, gave it his all against Delbarton

junior Alessio

See CHAPMAN, Page 14

Diamondettes are ready to shine at recent competition

By David Jablonski Managing Editor

It’s still February, but the batons are already twirling for Diamondettes Baton & Dance LLC, in preparation for the upcoming season.

Roselle Park resident Giuliana Concetta Schultz, 5, represented the Diamondettes in Boston during President’s Day Weekend at the Freedom Cup Championships at Brandeis University in Waltham, Mass., about 11 miles from downtown Boston. Giuliana began twirling at age 3, when she entered her first competition season in the category of Basic Strut.

At the Freedom Cup competition, she competed in Novice One Baton Solo, Basic Strut and Show Twirl to the song “Frozen” to which she performed components of one baton, two batons at once and streamer. Giuliana was the youngest solo competitor at this contest.

“This was the first competition,” said Nicole Marie Placca, owner and director of Diamondettes Baton & Dance LLC, in an interview with LocalSource on Friday, Feb. 23. “Giuliana was the only one to represent our studio. It was the entire Presidents Day weekend, Saturday and Sunday, at Brandeis University in Boston.”

“I wish more girls went but only she could go.”

Placca said it was an absolute honor to attend competitions of this stature, as some of the most talented, well-known athletes travel from all states to participate. She said it was certainly a big deal to be there, not only in presence, but to experience the sport of baton twirling at its truest level.

Diamondettes Baton & Dance LLC is the first baton twirling program to come to Union since the decade-run Patti’s Dolls. The program is offered in a variety of Union County locations and the competition teams are run out of Cranford and Union.

“I’ve been twirling since I was 10,” said Placca. “I officially became a business last year, but I’ve been giving private lessons for three years. I’ve been doing this for at least 20 years.”

“I teach Spanish at Union High School,” she added.

“There used to be a studio in Union, Patti’s Dolls, and she was a teacher in Roselle Park and she must have had 50, 60 kids, even more, and she ran the studio for decades,” said Placca, explaining how she got into baton twirling. “She was the reason there was so much baton twirling. It kept the program going here at the high school. When she retired, I worked on continuing to build her teaching and her legacy. I keep in touch with her often. I always remember to thank her for all the gifts she’s given me. The impact she had is certainly seen now.”

Placca said she knows the value of this sport and takes pride in designing a program with delivery of instruction that greatly differs from the common youth sports. She said she uses her experience as a teacher to design classes that caters to the needs of the individual — not only

having a consistent full competition program,” Placca said. “Diamond Gymnastics of Cranford, they were the first place, going a couple of years back, that allowed me to start this program. They were the main catalyst. And recently, Sunburst Gymnastics of Union has given me a consistent time slot.”

Right now, she explained, she’s the primary force running the company.

“It’s really me,” Placca said. “I have different locations where I run mini-sessions, but the competition part of the program is run out of Union and Cranford.

“I went from one competition team to three, on top of girls who take individual lessons. I have almost 30 students right now who take general classes but 19 are in competition. Kids who want to can take four-week sessions.”

“I have a total of three teams and seven soloists,” she continued. “I have 19 competition students. They’re from Newark, Short Hills, Union, Cranford, Roselle Park, Hillside; mainly from Union County, but I do have a handful from South River.”

Placca stressed that baton twirling is unlike common youth sports because of the social/emotional instruction and creation involved in making up the programs her girls perform.

“It’s definitely a different kind of sport,” she said. “You have to make the most of what you’re given because time goes so fast.”

Placca said everyone who gets involved in baton twirling gives their all, even the parents.

“I have really amazing parents, this year particularly, who ensure that their kids come to every practice, and that makes a big difference when you’re trying to perfect a routine and choreograph it,” she said. “It’s that personal connection that makes a difference in how they learn.”

In the meantime, Placca said she is going to keep giving her all to the sport she loves so much.

physically, but socially and emotionally.

Right now, she’s looking forward to upcoming competitions.

“Our season starts in April and we’ll be attending all the ones we did last year, including the one in Wildwood, local New Jersey events and those in the USTA, the United States Twirling Association,” Placca said.

“We’ll also attend local state championships and all East Regional Championships. They’ll be in a combination of Rahway, Bloomfield and Wildwood for the regionals.”

“We stay mostly in Union County,” she added. “Wildwood is our furthest one.”

The program is based on the ideology that every child can be an athlete and experience success as reflective of their own needs and abilities. More importantly than learning the sport itself is to instill the mindset that everyone has the ability to shine bright, like a “Diamond-ette” in anything they want to achieve. The program also focuses on normalizing mis-

takes and accepting them as a natural, important part of the learning process.

“The facilities have been wonderful for

“I’m really proud of it and I hope it continues. It’s such a special sport. It really gives these kids so much.”

Photo Courtesy of Nicole Marie Placca

Diamondettes Baton & Dance LLC owner and director Nicole Marie Placca stands beside Giuliana Concetta Schultz at the recent Freedom Cup Championships at Brandeis University in Waltham, Mass.

Monday: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm

Tuesday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Wednesday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Thursday: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm

Friday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Saturday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Sunday: Closed

Daly wins the 106-pound finals at the Region 4 Tournament

By JR Parachini Sports Editor

The keys to success, according to Cranford High School sophomore Michael Daly: “working on offense a lot, keep working hard and conditioning.”

All three were in play Friday, Feb. 23, and Saturday, Feb. 24, and assisted Daly in coming out on top in all three of his matches at Region 4 at Union High School.

After placing sixth in Region 4 last year and seeing his season end in Union’s gym, this time, he got his picture taken holding the 106-pound poster card that showed the bracket he captured for the first time.

In the championship match at 106 pounds, the thirdseeded Daly found a way to get past fifth-seeded Ridge High School sophomore Tanner Connelly, 3-1, in overtime.

Daly wrestled Connelly just once prior. Last summer, at Roselle Park High School, he also defeated Connelly in overtime.

This is how he described the Region 4 final on Saturday, Feb. 24, at Union: “It was a gritty, hard match. I knew what to expect.”

Daly became the second Cranford wrestler in two years to win the Union County Tournament, District 16 Tournament — at Watchung Hills Regional High School this year — and Region 4 Tournament championships in the same season.

The top four wrestlers in each weight class in the eight regions advanced to the NJSIAA Tournament.

Finals

• 106 pounds: Michael Daly, Cranford, dec. Tanner Connelly, Ridge, 3-1 (OT).

• 113 pounds: Anthony DiAndrea, Watchung Hills, maj. dec. Zachary Belverio, Arthur L. Johnson, 12-1.

• 120 pounds: Anthony Rossi, Hunterdon Central, tech. fall Max Rotter, Westfield, 1:38.

pin Matthew Di Eduardo, Bridgewater-Raritan, 2:51.

• 157 pounds: Logan Wiecoreck, Voorhees, dec. Cody Pritzlaff, Watchung Hills, 3-1.

• 165 pounds: Jordan Chapman, Cranford, pin John Quinonez, Paramus Catholic, 2:42.

• 175 pounds: Thomas Brunetti, Hunterdon Central, dec. Edward Terreri, Paramus Catholic, 5-4.

• 190 pounds: Daniel Rella, Paramus Catholic, pin Fabian Acuna, Somerville, 3:43.

• 215 pounds: Xavier Williams, Paramus Catholic, pin Nathan Faxon, Governor Livingston, :31.

• HWT: Josue Cordoba, Plainfield, dec. Christopher Oliver, Ridge, 7-5.

Third place

• 106 pounds: Julian Arango, St. Joseph, Metuchen, tech. fall Reid Buzby, North Hunterdon, 1:43.

• 113 pounds: Aidan Yarussi, North Hunterdon, pin Derek Sutphen, Immaculata, 3:15.

• 120 pounds: Matteo Littman, Pingry, dec. Brady Hnasko, Bridgewater-Raritan, 2-0.

• 126 pounds: Gabriel Hargrove, Union, dec. Shane Wysocki, North Hunterdon, 3-1.

• 132 pounds: Luke Scholz, Cranford, dec. Nate Keller, Immaculata, 3-1.

• 138 pounds: Braeden Valley, New Providence, pin Jordan Bash, Watchung Hills, 3:06.

• 144 pounds: William Cella, Hunterdon Central, pin

Abe Zaretsky, Paramus Catholic, 4:31.

• 126 pounds: Zachary Beadling, St. Joseph, Metuchen, dec. Mason Tettambel, Immaculata, 3-0.

• 132 pounds: Nicholas Pallitto, Paramus Catholic dec. Gavin Duran, Ridge, 8-5.

• 138 pounds: Dylan Ross, Paramus Catholic dec. Morgan Schwarz, St. Joseph, Metuchen, 2-1 (2OT).

• 144 pounds: Nick Villani, Bernards, dec. Joseph Ortega, Arthur L. Johnson, 3-1.

• 150 pounds: Rhett Washleski, Hunterdon Central,

• 150 pounds: Ryan Closterman, Somerville, dec.

Joseph Dasti, Governor Livingston, 7-3.

• 157 pounds: Tyler Whitford, St. Joseph, Metuchen. dec. Jake Kreisberg, Governor Livingston, 5-1.

• 165 pounds: Cristian Gioia, Governor Livingston, maj. dec. Brian Wilson, North Hunterdon, 9-0.

• 175 pounds: Michael Feliciano, Colonia, maj. dec. Evan Kinney, North Hunterdon, 9-1.

Photo by JR Parachini Michael Daly of Cranford High School holds up his poster card, following his win by a 3-1 decision in overtime in the 106-pound finals against Tanner Connelly of Ridge High School.

Brookside Place School welcomes new principal in July

The Cranford Board of Education has announced that Kristen D’Anna is the new principal of Brookside Place School, effective Monday, July 1. D’Anna, who currently serves as the principal of Bloomingdale Avenue School, will be succeeding Michael Klimko, who is retiring effective Monday, July 1, after serving as BPS principal for the past 16 years, following 17 years of service as a teacher and an assistant principal in a prior district.

Klimko’s passion and commitment in service to the school community is appreciated and its staff wishes him much

deserved happiness as he starts this new and exciting chapter in his life.

D’Anna has served in her current role as principal of Bloomingdale since August 2022. Prior to this appointment, D’Anna began her career as an elementary school teacher in the Freehold Township School District in 2004, where she taught first, second and third grades.

D’Anna transitioned into administration as the supervisor of curriculum and instruction, PK-8, in East Hanover Township Schools. During this time, she supported the enhancement of teaching and

learning practices throughout the district, while also serving as the program coordinator for all federal grants and Title I programs before becoming the principal of the K-2 school.

D’Anna earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Delaware and a master’s degree in educational administration from Georgian Court University.

D’Anna has greatly enjoyed her time as the principal of Bloomingdale Avenue School and is so appreciative of the relationships she has made with the faculty,

students and parents/guardians. She said she will miss the Bloomingdale Avenue School Community but will assist in providing a smooth transition in leadership and continued success for students and staff.

D’Anna said she is honored to be joining the Brookside Place School Community and she looks forward to partnering with the dedicated staff, parents/guardians, students and the community to see how she can best serve the school and ensure a successful year for all.

New Jersey Board of Public Utilities welcomes new commissioner

Michael Bange is the newest commissioner of the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, replacing MaryAnna Holden. Bange was nominated to the NJBPU by Gov. Phil Murphy and unanimously confirmed by the New Jersey State Senate in December 2023.

“I am excited to welcome Michael to the board and look forward to working with him,” said NJBPU President Christine Guhl-Sadovy.

“Commissioner Bange brings a wealth of experience and knowledge in utilities, especially water, which will contribute greatly to our work on behalf of New Jersey ratepayers.

“I look forward to his contributions as we continue to advance the board’s priorities including clean energy, expanding broadband access to all residents and ensuring safe and reliable utility service.”

Bange said he looks forward to applying his water util-

ity experience to all utility services for the state, particularly in energy.

“Clean renewable energy is very important to me,” Bange said. “After serving in the utility industry for 35 years, I want to be a part of a team that promotes clean, renewable energy for New Jersey residents. In addition, I plan to help the board in continuing to provide safe and reliable utility services at a fair rate for the residents of this great state.”

Bange is a seasoned utility professional with more than 35 years of experience in the water utility industry. Prior to his nomination, his responsibility included overseeing the delivery of critical water services for New Jersey American Water. Bange’s career began in construction, installing and repairing water infrastructure, where he gained valuable experience in the field as a utility laborer. Rising through the ranks by hard work and ded-

ication, he became senior manager of Operations for New Jersey American Water. He was responsible for providing safe and reliable drinking water for more than 650,000 customers in 24 towns in three counties.

Throughout his career, Bange has been known for his customer-oriented mindset. He understands the importance of providing high-quality utility services to the people of New Jersey and is committed to ensuring customers receive the best possible service.

His dedication to customer service has earned him a reputation as one of the most reliable and trustworthy experts in the water utility industry. Bange is a lifelong resident of New Jersey and resides in Cranford Township with his family.

New Jersey’s newest NJBPU commissioner joins President Christine Guhl-Sadovy and commissioners Dr. Zenon Christodoulou and Marian Abdou.

Easter Egg Hunt in the pool at the new Cranford YMCA

Children can visit the Easter Bunny and swim for Easter eggs in the pool on Saturday, March 30, at the new Cranford YMCA, 401 Centennial Ave., Cranford. The event is open to the community and geared toward families with children ages 2-7.

Participants choose a 30-minute session between 2 and 3:30 p.m. to splash around and collect as many Easter eggs in the pool as they can. Whoever collects the most eggs in each session will win a prize. A parent or guardian has to accompany their child in the pool if they are younger than the age of 6 or unable to swim independently.

Everyone has to register online or in person at the Westfield Area YMCA Main Facility or Cranford YMCA. Proceeds will benefit the Y’s Annual Support Campaign, which ensures that no one who lives or works in Cranford, Garwood, Mountainside or Westfield and is experiencing a bona fide financial hardship is denied the opportunity to participate at the Y.

A young swimmer hunts for Easter eggs at last year’s Easter Egg Hunt in the pool.

We have entrees, salads, soups, appetizers, side dishes, calzones, strombolis, hot and cold sub sandwiches, wraps, platters, party trays, paninis, pasta, gluten-free dishes. And, of course, more than a dozen varieties of great pizza.

Photo Courtesy of Kristy Cerini

EVENTS

College Women’s Club of Cranford has year planned

The club supports Cranford youth and the amazing community through college scholarships, donations to project graduation and free programs open to all in our community and surrounding areas.

Check out the line-up of programs and lectures for the year. All programs will be at the Jardine Academy, 75 Rod Smith Place, Cranford.

• Tuesday, May 14, at 7 p.m.: “The Beatles – From Liverpool to Abbey Road” program, with speaker Vinnie Bruno, Beatles scholar and ’60s rock historian. This lecture will follow in the footsteps of The Beatles as they embark on their historic journey starting from their early days as a cover band in Liverpool and Hamburg into the excitement of Beatlemania. Coming full circle, the highlights of each indi-

vidual’s post-Beatles work will be explored.

Antique appraisals event

The Cranford Historical Society will host an Antique Appraisals event on Saturday, April 6, from 2 to 4 p.m., at the Cranford Community Center, 220 Walnut Ave., Cranford. Visitors are invited to bring their treasured antique items to be appraised for a fee of $5 per item, cash or check, which will be collected at the sign-in desk.

Attendees will receive a history overview of the item along with the fair market value of each item within the antique marketplace. The appraisals are not legally binding.

For more information contact the Historical Society at 908-276-0082 or cranfordhistoricalsociety@verizon.net. Visit the website at www.cranfordhistoricalsociety.com.

“For four years, Ben has been both an amazing athlete and a team leader for us. His work ethic has been unparalleled and the results have shown in the form of conference, county and state sectional championships, and school records. Ben not only leads by example, but also helps by offering guidance and tips to the other athletes as well. Ben is the ideal athlete that any coach could hope for.”

— Coach John Schiano

Ben Fosella, shot put

What were your goals this season?

In addition to simply wanting to improve my PR’s from last season, I also wanted to capture my third Union County Championship, my fourth State Sectional Championship, and qualify for Meet of Champions and New Balance Nationals. I was lucky enough to succeed in all of those goals!

How do you get ready for a game?

I always make sure to get a good rest the night before a meet, which is hard sometimes considering the fact that we sometimes leave for meets as early as 6:45 a.m. Leading up to the meet, I tend to listen to relaxing music, which calms my nerves and gets me into the right mindset. However, once I begin warming up to throw, I then change the music to be more aggressive, so that I can get my adrenaline going and get energized to throw.

What was your biggest accomplishment this season?

Winning the Group 2 Central Sectional Championship, as it was a very competitive section that included some great throwers who went on to qualify for the Meet of Champions. It was also my third indoor sectional title in a row, making the accomplishment that much better!

What’s the most important thing your coach has taught you?

The importance of dedication. He is constantly reminding the entire team that, in order to succeed in track and field, it requires you to be constantly giving your best effort and for you to be fully committed to improving your craft. This is so important,because I have found that it does not only apply to track and field, but also in many other aspects of my life.

Who are your favorite professional athletes?

Jason Kelce. Being an Eagles fan and offensive lineman myself, it was easy to start liking him. But as I saw more interviews and podcasts with him, I began to respect his character as a man who, while he treats his opponents with the utmost respect and kindness, is still willing to do what it takes to win. These are qualities that I hope I can develop within myself, making him my favorite athlete.

What is your favorite subject in school?

I enjoy a lot of subjects, including history and psychology but my favorite subject is graphic design, as I have always liked the visual arts.

What other hobbies do you have?

Playing guitar, drawing, photography and weightlifting. These are all ways I relax in my downtime.

What are your plans after high school?

My plans are to attend college and continue my education and possibly continue throwing, if the right opportunity comes.

Photos by David VanDeventer

The fourth annual ‘Fire & Ice’ street festival was wisely bumped from a very soggy Saturday to sunny Sunday, March 3, with magnificent results. Organized by the Downtown Cranford team and sponsored by Brighton Air Corporation, the fun-filled afternoon showcased fire breathers, ice carvers, ‘King of The Wing’ contest, face painting, balloon creations, hot cocoa and a flaming s’mores station. After an intensely delicious vote, Urban Burger proudly took home the highly coveted 2024 bragging rights for best chicken wings!

Cranford’s 150th anniversary quilt dedication hosted

A handmade quilt was dedicated on Thursday, March 14, commemorating Cranford’s 150th anniversary. Cranford was established March 14, 1871. Local organizations each contributed a handmade fabric square that was then assembled and quilted by Ellen Hess, a local resident and professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology.

“This is a gift to the town from these organizations,” said Jeffrey Pistol, member of the 150th Anniversary Committee.

The 150th anniversary quilt is the second in a pair of quilts commemorating Cranford, each hung on the rear wall of the Township Committee chambers in the Municipal Building. The first quilt was crafted to commemorate the 125th anniversary of Cranford.

“To know they’ll be here for years to come, it is a very exciting thing to look at. It’s a great thing we all take our history seriously in the town. It will give residents something to remember us by,” said Township Commissioner liaison to the 150th Anniversary Committee Paul Gallo.

“This tells the government what all these groups are doing, from the church, to the police and fire departments, and the seniors, there is a lot happening on this quilt. This is Cranford… These are the people who made this town what it is,” said Loretta Smith, 150th Anniversary Committee member.

You can watch the full video presentation on Cranford TV-35.

Photos Courtesy of Christina Miskewitz

Above left, Township Administrator Lavona Patterson stands with 150th Anniversary Committee members Jeffrey Pistol, Loretta Smith and Ellen Hess, and Township Commissioners Kathleen Miller Prunty and Paul Gallo in front of the anniversary quilt. Above right is a closeup of the anniversary quilt.

Cranford named as part of Film Ready Communities

The New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission, part of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, announced on Wednesday, March 13, that Cranford was named among 14 other municipalities and four counties in New Jersey as Film Ready Communities. Cranford has served as host to many productions over the years, working together with the NJMPTVC for almost 20 years, and this solidifies the community as a top choice for filmmakers.

“Location scouts always point to the diversity of housing styles and downtown buildings that fit any era,” said Kathleen Miller Prunty, township commissioner and liaison to the Downtown Management Corporation board.

The Victorian homes of Holly Street were chosen to film “Mothers’ Instinct,” set in the 1960s, starring A-list actors Anne Hathaway and Jessica Chastain. Other notable films include: “Maybe I Do,” starring Dianne Keaton and Emma Roberts; “Daughter of the Bride,” starring Marcia Gay Harden and Aidan Quinn; “Far from Heaven,” starring Dennis Quaid and Julianne Moore; “Guess Who,” starring Bernie Mac and Ashton Kutcher; “Jersey Girls” and HBO’s “Plot Against America.”

“Film production companies are looking for cooperation but also predictability when selecting a location. The Cranford Police Department and DMC have always worked to make the process easy while ensuring that Cranford's interests are protected. There are companies that specifically request Cranford because they like working here,” Miller Prunty added.

Cranford was also selected as the locale for television shows, including “Pete & Pete” and “Ed,” and commercials for the Super Bowl, Dunkin’ Donuts and State Farm Insurance.

There’s no room for the ordinary here.

“It’s always fun to see the crowds of residents watching the productions and hoping to see their favorite stars. We always appreciate when casts and crews patronize our local businesses. I’ve met people who returned to Cranford to visit our restaurants and stores after productions ended. It’s great to have a reputation as a welcoming town for business and entertainment,” Miller Prunty said.

Photos Courtesy of Christina Miskewitz

Above left, Janice Kovach, Jessica Chastain, Anne Hathaway and Township Commissioner Kathleen Miller Prunty stand together in Cranford, which has been named as one of 14 Film Ready Communities. Above right, Marcia Gay Harden and Venue 104 Owner Franco Vitella pose together for a photo. Harden starred in ‘Daughter of the Bride,’ which was filmed in Cranford.

Maren Pitts, ice hockey

“Maren is an all-around player, leading our team in scoring as well as being our top defenseman. Even more impressive than that, however, is the fact that she is a great team player. She is always looking to pass the puck to get her teammates involved, thereby making them better players.”

— Coach Rich Hurley

What were your goals this season?

Find a connection with all my teammates and make it a memorable first season of high school hockey.

How do you get ready for a game? I make sure to stretch and listen to my favorite songs in the locker room.

What was your biggest accomplishment this season?

Making first team all-state.

What’s the most important thing your coach has taught you? Be able to push past my limits and learn to be comfortable being uncomfortable.

Who are your favorite professional athletes?

Henrik Lundqvist and Cale Makar.

What is your favorite subject in school? Math.

What other hobbies do you have?

Playing other sports and reading.

What are your plans after high school?

Get into a good college to later become a veterinarian.

Chapman is stellar at states

(Continued from Page 3)

Tournament quarterfinals on Friday, March 1, including Chapman. The other two were junior standouts from Governor Livingston High School, Cristian Gioia at 165 pounds and Nathan Faxon at 215 pounds. Both were defeated.

Gioia wrestled back to earn a medal as the eighth-place finisher at 165 pounds. He went 3-3 in his six NJSIAA Tournament bouts to finish the year at 39-7.

Faxon went 2-2 to come in at 40-3. His last bout came in the Wrestleback Fourth Round.

Chapman and Gioia were the only two of the 16 Union County wrestlers who advanced to the NJSIAA Tournament out of Region 4 at Union to medal. Wrestlers who finish in the top eight in their weight class at the NJSIAA Tournament earn medals.

Arthur L. Johnson High School senior Joey Ortega also did quite well in Atlantic City, going 3-2 in five bouts at 144 pounds. He finished a fine senior season at 43-5.

On Thursday, Feb. 29, Ortega won in the preliminary round and then lost in the pre-quarterfinals. He then went 2-1 in wrestleback matches, falling Friday, March 1, in the fourth round of the wrestlebacks by decision.

Cranford’s other two NJSIAA Tournament qualifiers, sophomores Michael Daly at 106 pounds and Luke Scholz at 132 pounds, each lost their last matches by one-point decisions in wrestleback competition.

Daly, a first-time Region 4 at Union champion, finished 35-9 after going 2-2 in Atlantic City. Scholz also went 2-2 and came in at 22-6.

“Next year, both should be on the podium here,” Gorman said. “Jordan, Michael and Luke have elevated the program and are a big influence on the little kids wrestling in town.”

Union County wrestlers that reached the NJSIAA Tournament Quarterfinals

• 165 pounds: Cristian Gioia, Gov. Livingston, junior

• 165 pounds: Jordan Chapman, Cranford, junior

• 215 pounds: Nathan Faxon, Gov. Livingston, junior

Cristian Gioia, Governor Livingston, junior, at 165 pounds

Thursday, Feb. 29

Preliminary Round

8-Cristian Gioia, Governor Livingston, pin 25-Michael Fahmie, Whippany Park, 2:34.

Pre-Quarterfinal Round

8-Cristian Gioia, Governor Livingston, pin 9-Lorenzo Caamano, Caldwell, 5:35.

Friday, March 1

Quarterfinal Round

1-Alessio Perentin, Delbarton, pin 8Cristian Gioia, Governor Livingston, 3:34.

Wrestleback Fourth Round

8-Cristian Gioia, Governor Livingston, dec. 6-Cole Stangle, St. John Vianney, 7-5.

Wrestleback Quarterfinal

5-Hayden Hochstrasser, Southern dec. 8-Cristian Gioia, Governor Livingston, 7-4.

Saturday, March 2

Seventh Place

7-Ben Garcia, Don Bosco Prep, dec. 8Cristian Gioia, Governor Livingston, 10-6. Gioia goes 3-3 in Atlantic City to place eighth at 165 pounds and close out a fine junior campaign at 39-7.

Jordan Chapman, Cranford, junior, at 165 pounds

Thursday, Feb. 29

Preliminary Round

2-Jordan Chapman, Cranford, pin 31Donte Nocito, Gateway, :33.

Pre-Quarterfinal Round

2-Jordan Chapman, Cranford, pin 15Gavin Gomes, Morris Knolls, :57.

Friday, March 1

Quarterfinal Round

2-Jordan Chapman, Cranford, maj. dec. 7-Ben Garcia, Don Bosco Prep, 11-3.

Semifinal Round

2-Jordan Chapman, Cranford, tech. fall 11-Tanner Hodgins, Howell, 4:40, 17-2.

Saturday, March 2

Final Round

1-Alessio Perentin, Delbarton, dec. 2Jordan Chapman, Cranford, 12-7. Chapman goes 42-2 and is now 119-11 going into his senior season.

Chapman went 35-5 as a freshman and made the states, 42-4 as a sophomore and was third in the state at 157 pounds and 42-2 as a junior and was second in the state at 165 pounds. Perentin won his second state championship after winning at 157 pounds last year. Perentin No. 1 and Chapman No. 2 were the top-two ranked wrestlers in the state at 165 pounds. Perentin finished 39-2 this year. This was Chapman’s first loss to a wrestler from New Jersey since last year’s NJSIAA Tournament.

Nathan Faxon, Governor Livingston, junior at 215 pounds

Thursday, Feb. 29

Preliminary Round

4-Nathan Faxon, Governor Livingston, pin 29-Ed Vincent, St. Augustine, :41.

Pre-Quarterfinal Round

4-Nathan Faxon, Governor Livingston, dec. 13-Tom Borgia, West Morris, 8-5. Friday, March 1

Quarterfinal Round

12-Ethan Mendel, Northern Highlands, pin 4-Nathan Faxon, Governor Livingston, 3:35.

Wrestleback Fourth Round

10-Cole Hughes, Emerson Boro, dec. 4-Nathon Faxon, Governor Livingston, 12-9.

Faxon goes 2-2 in Atlantic City to close a fine junior campaign at 40-3.

Union County softball hits the bases running this month

By JR Parachini Sports

Another Union County softball season is upon us, with the first scheduled scrimmages taking place this week, starting Thursday, March 21.

Cranford High School, sparked by two of the best seniors in the state in Sophia DeMarco and Maddy DeLong, has its first four scrimmages set to be played at its Adams Avenue Field.

Cranford’s final scheduled scrimmage is at James Caldwell High School on Saturday, March 30, at 11 a.m.

Cranford went 26-5 last year and, in addition to winning the UCT for the third year in a row, for the second time in program history, the Cougars also captured the North 2, Group 3 sectional state championship for the second time in three years.

Cranford lost a 12-11 decision at home to Morris Knolls High School in the Group 3 semifinals to fall two victories shy of capturing the program’s first overall group state title.

Cranford’s season-opener is set for Monday, April 1, at noon, at David Brearley High School in Kenilworth. The Cougars will open at home on Wednesday, April 3, at 10 a.m., vs. Elizabeth High School–Frank J.

Cranford went 26-5 last year and, in addition to winning the UCT for the third year in a row, for the second time in program history, the Cougars also captured the North 2, Group 3 sectional state championship for the second time in three years.

Cicarell Academy. Cranford edged Governor Livingston 2-1 in last year’s UCT championship game at Kean University.

Cranford players that were sophomores last year included Morgan Bond, Ava Orr, Adriennne Lettini, Hannah Semple and Alexa Stulpin. Players that were freshmen were Brook Bentrewicz, Grace Ingraham, Mady Garofalo, Ciara Conley and Lilliana Pardo.

Cranford has never won the UCT four times in a row. If the Cougars are to do so this year, it will be with a different pitcher, since Avery Toddings was part of a senior class that included eight players a year ago. The other Cranford seniors lost to graduation included Karina Kilbashian, Katie Bendert, Madi Jones, Giulia Olear, Taryn Palm-Morrison, Emma Grace-

Pachkowski and Sabrina Prata.

Oak Knoll, Union Catholic High School and New Providence High School went 16-8, 15-8 and 14-8 as the top teams in the Mountain Division. The teams with the best records out of the Sky Division were Kent Place School at 10-12 and Linden High School at 9-13.

The cutoff date for teams to qualify for their state tournaments is Saturday, May 18. The states are scheduled to commence four days later on Wednesday, May 22.

Cranford has now captured eight UCT titles overall after winning the last three. Here’s a closer look:

Cranford Cougar UCT Softball Championships

• 2023: Cranford 2, Governor Livingston 1 – at Kean University

WP: Avery Toddings. Head coach: Melissa Moreno.

• 2022: Cranford 9, Elizabeth 0 – at Kean University

WP: Avery Toddings. Head coach: Melissa Moreno.

• 2021: Cranford 5, Governor Livingston 1 – at Linden High School

WP: Morrigan Gardiner. Head coach: Christine Pemoulie.

• 2010: Cranford 4, Governor Livingston 3 – at Kean University

WP: Kelly Hardman. Head coach: Bob Bruno.

• 2008: Cranford 2, Union 0 – at Linden High School

WP: Kelly Hardman. Head coach: Bob Bruno.

• 2007: Cranford 13, Linden 0 – at Linden High School

WP: Kelly Hardman. Head coach: Bob Bruno.

• 2006: Cranford 1, Governor Livingston 0 – at Linden High School

WP: Elena Morge. Head coach: Shannon Norton.

• 2002: Cranford 3, Union 0 – at Linden High School

WP: Christine Pemoulie. Head coach: Terry Biunno.