Cranford Life - May 2023

CRANFORDLIFE

Vying for a scholarship

‘Super Mario Stroll’ comes to Cranford

By Javon Ross Staff Writer

It’s a Mario world and we just live in it.

“The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” theatrically released in the United States on Wednesday, April 5, has been a massive success, already grossing at least $377 million worldwide against a $100 million budget, and Cranford Downtown Management Corp. decided to get in on the action, too, specifically with a “Super Mario Stroll” event.

— See Page 2 Children are celebrated

— See Page 8 Student opens protein bar

Caren Demyen, the Cranford DMC director, explained to LocalSource what prompted her to create such an event, which took place on Friday, April 7, and Saturday, April 8, from noon to 4 p.m. “Super Mario Stroll” ticket holders receive a tote bag that can be filled with Super Mario goodies from 14 participating Downtown Cranford businesses, as well as a pass to see the movie at the Cranford Theater. There were also other Super Mario-themed events on those two days,

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— See Page 12

Photos by Javon Ross

Families wait to take photographs with Mario, Luigi and Peach at the ‘Super Mario Stroll,’ which took place on Friday, April 7, and Saturday, April 8, in Cranford’s Downtown.

Above left, families look at the Bowser stand outside of Max and Luna's at the ‘Super Mario Stroll.’

Above right, children pose with Yoshi at the ‘Super Mario Stroll.’

Six UCUC students are in the mix for scholarship

Union College of Union County has announced that six of its students are semifinalists for the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship — the most in Union’s history. The semifinalists are Eman Abdelrahman, of New Providence; Ozichi Chinedu, of Freehold; Joceline Gissel Guerra Osorio, of Elizabeth; Junaid Ilyas, of Roselle Park; Yeicob Martinez, of Rahway; and Carine Medellus, of Roselle. Union’s six semifinalists all have at least a 3.65 grade-point average, are members of Phi Theta Kappa, the International Honor Society for two-year colleges, and have been very involved in various clubs and activities during their time at Union College of Union County.

For students to be considered for the JKCF Scholarship, they must have at least a 3.5 GPA, and demonstrate financial need. When a student is selected as a JKCF Transfer Scholar, they receive financial support of as much as $55,000 for two to three years to complete their bachelor’s degree, college planning support, ongoing advising and the opportunity to connect with fellow JKCF scholars.

Eman Abdelrahman is an adult student with a 3.87 GPA and is studying architecture at Union College of Union County. She is a member of UCUC’s Architecture Honors Society. Abdelrahman plans to continue her academic career as an architecture student at a four-year university. After completing her degree, she plans to

pursue a career in sustainable housing design. By focusing on sustainable housing, she hopes to contribute to a more environmentally conscious future and positively impact society.

Ozichi Chinedu has a 4.0 GPA and is studying computer information systems and technology. She is the vice president of Scholarship Hallmark for PTK, vice president of Union College of Union County’s Model United Nations and an Academic Learning Center tutor. Chinedu was also selected as a 2023 Coca-Cola Academic Team Silver Scholar and will receive a scholarship. Selection as a CocaCola Silver Scholar was based on scores the student earned in the All-USA Academic Team competition, for which more than 2,400 applications were received this year. This program is sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and is administered by PTK Honor Society. Chinedu plans on continuing her studies at a four-year institution with a goal of obtaining her master’s degree and becoming a project manager or systems analyst.

Joceline Guerra Osorio graduated from Union College of Union County this past winter with an associate degree in business and a 3.94 GPA. While at UCUC, she was a member of PTK, the National Society of Leadership and Success and a tutor in the ALC. At Union College of Union County’s Winter Commencement, she received the AbdallahSee CRANFORD, Page 11

Photo Courtesy of Margaret M. Ortuso

From top left are Eman Abdelrahman, Ozichi Chinedu, Joceline Guerra Osorio, Junaid Ilyas, Yeicob Martinez and Carine Medellus, semifinalists for the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship — the most in Union College of Union County’s history.

New assistant principal is selected for Cranford High School

The Cranford Board of Education has announced Thomas Manzo as the new assistant principal of Cranford High School. Manzo was selected after an extensive search process which included multiple interviews with the selection committee; reviews of work samples; and a very thorough reference check. Manzo graduated early from Rowan University and earned his bachelor’s degree in history and education with magna cum laude honors and earned a master’s degree in educational leadership at Montclair State University with summa cum laude honors.

After graduating, he found part time positions at West

Essex and Glen Rock High School, which led him to his long-term positions at Lodi High School, where he’s been for the last nine years. There, he began his career as a history teacher and served in numerous roles, including the I&RS/504 case manager, student council advisor and the head spring and winter track and field coach.

In 2018, Manzo became the Lodi High School department supervisor of social studies and Spanish and, subsequently, also supervised the business department. Through collaborative efforts, he strived to offer additional opportunities for the educational community,

including offering more Advanced Placement courses, coordinating with the County College to offer dual enrollment courses and updating the school curriculum to promote diversity, equity and inclusion.

Manzo lives in East Hanover with his wife, Katherine, and their 15-month-old daughter, Claire. They’re also expecting their second daughter this summer. Manzo said he is very excited and honored to join the Cranford team and looks forward to partnering with faculty, students, parents/guardians, and community members to determine how he can best serve the community.

UCUC president affiliates with Excelencia in Education’s network

Excelencia in Education, the nation’s premier authority in efforts accelerating Latino student success in higher education, announced that Union College of Union County President Margaret M. McMenamin has chosen to be part of the Presidents for Latino Student Success network.

This important national network is composed of college and university presidents and chancellors who commit to making their institutions learning environments where Latino students thrive. The institutions in Excelencia’s network are transforming higher education.

Of the thousands of colleges and universities across the country, the more than 150 leaders of the 175 institutions in the network enroll one-in-four of all Latino students in higher education. More importantly, these institutions account for one-in-three of all Latino graduates. In fact, a subset of the Excelencia network —

30 institutions that have been certified with the Seal of Excelencia — represents 13% of all Latino enrollment and graduates 14% of all Latinos in the U.S. For the

fall 2022 semester, 45% of Union’s students and more than 55% of first-time full-time students identified as Hispanic, the largest percentage in the College’s history. Union is identified as a federally designated Hispanic Serving Institution, based on the college’s Hispanic student enrollment.

Excelencia professionals, the leadership network, and their campus teams, actively collaborate to put evidence-based practices and strategic analysis of student data to use supporting and advancing the talents, skills, and contributions of Latino students and the institutions.

Sarita Brown, co-founder and president of Excelencia, said, “Higher education leaders with skills and vision are fundamental to our country’s strong recovery. Those prepared to engage and intentionally serve Latino students, while serving all their students, will lead the way.”

“Excelencia is honored to work with the trendsetting presidents and chancellors who have accepted this challenge. The leaders in the network have made a common cause with Excelencia to accelerate Latino student success in higher education.”

“Dr. McMenamin’s leadership has worked in the best interest of students since she arrived at Union almost 13 years ago,” said Union College of Union County’s Board of Trustees Chairperson Victor M. Richel. “Her focus from the beginning has been on student success, specifically with initiatives such as Inspire the Future, which provides support to Hispanic students and aims to increase graduation rates of Union’s Hispanic population. With her new affiliation with Excelencia, she will have the opportunity to bring her innovative ideas to a national level.”

— Photo by Margaret M. Ortuso

Margaret M. McMenamin

Medellus named to All-USA Academic Team

Union College of Union County student Carine Medellus, of Roselle, is one of only 20 college students nationwide named to the prestigious All-USA Academic Team and will receive a $5,000 scholarship. More than 2,400 students were nominated for this award.

Medellus is studying biology at Union and has a 4.0 grade-point average. She is the committee leader of Scholarship in Phi Theta Kappa, the vice president of the Research Club, an American Honors Program student and a peer tutor in the College’s Academic Learning Center.

Medellus is currently working on an undergraduate research project with her dedicated professors.

Team members were selected for their outstanding intellectual achievement, leadership, community, and campus engagement. The All-USA Academic Team is sponsored by Cengage, with additional support provided by PTK and the American Association of Community Colleges.

The All-USA program is widely recognized as the most prestigious academic honor for students attending associate degree-granting institutions. Each college may nominate two students for showing intellectual rigor and demonstrating academic achievement, leadership and civic growth. The program also recognizes students who extend their community college education to better themselves, their schools and their surrounding communities.

“We are deeply inspired by the achievements of this year’s All-USA Academic Team. With so much focus and pressure on which post-secondary institution a student attends, these students show that the real keys to success are hard work and determination,” said Edwin Robles, senior vice president and general manager, US Higher Education and Canada, Cengage.

“Community colleges play an important role in providing affordable education that helps students transition successfully to the workforce or a four-year institution. Despite facing significant enrollment headwinds since the pandemic, community colleges have been the most innovative in taking steps to make learning more flexible, affordable and accessible. We are proud to support these institutions and their students in their continued success.”

Additionally, Medellus was named a 2023 New Century Transfer Pathway Scholar and will receive a $2,250 scholarship. Selection was based on the score earned in the All-USA Academic Team competition. Medellus received the highest score in New Jersey. The program is sponsored by The Coca-Cola Foundation, the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, Phi Theta Kappa, and AACC.

“The Union community is very proud of Carine’s achievements and the recognitions she has earned during her time at Union. Her strong work ethic and passion for success are going to help her accomplish great things,” stated Union’s president, Margaret M. McMenamin “We applaud the PTK faculty advisors and staff for their successful mentorship of Ms. Medellus. She has achieved what very few students have ever achieved.”

As for her plans after graduating from Union, Medellus has been selected as an undergraduate researcher at the University of Buffalo for this upcoming summer. She plans to transfer to a four-year university and study biochemistry, and her career goal is to earn a doctorate and work as a researcher. Medellus was recognized during the AACC convention at PTK’s Presidents Breakfast on Monday, April 3, in Denver, Colo.

Photo Courtesy of Margaret M. Ortuso Carine Medellus

Membership campaign has commenced

The 2023 membership campaign for Hanson Park Conservancy has commenced. Hanson Park Conservancy is a non-profit organization begun in 2004 by a group of Cranford Citizens to support efforts to upgrade and maintain Hanson Park and to provide guidance and support to the preservation of the Cranford Canoe Club building, the last remaining Canoe Club.

The conservancy continues to provide ongoing maintenance of the park. It has successfully partnered with schools, local community groups and others to provide financial and volunteer support for the park. Through the Jan Lilien Education Fund, made possible by donations in memory of the late Jan LiIien of Cranford, it will provide educational programs on sustainability and environmental awareness. The conservancy hosts the annual Rubber Duck Race each year and is a co-sponsor of the annual Pumpkin Carve Out with Jersey Central Art Studio and the Cranford Jaycees.

A 2023 membership form can be found on the conservancy’s website at hansonparkconservancy.com.

IN MEMORIAM

• FRANTZ – William D., of Bordentown, formerly of Scranton, Pa., Harrisburg, Pa., and Cranford; April 13. Accountant. Husband, father, grandfather, 95.

• KIDNEY-BREMNER – Catherine, of Cranford; April 13. Wife, mother, sister, 68.

• KISNER – Sherman Clark “Sarge,” of Neptune, formerly of Cranford, Indiana and Wyoming; March 28. Contractor. Husband, father, grandfather, cousin, 73.

• MANSFIELD – Patricia M., of Cranford, formerly of Bordentown and Scotch Plains; April 11. Private accountant, widow, mother, sister, grandmother, 85.

• RAKOWIECKI – John A., of West Windsor, formerly of Cranford; April 6. Brother, 54.

• ROBINSON – Clara L., of Cranford, formerly of Elizabeth; April 3. Was 98.

In Memoriam is a monthly feature compiled by the news staff from various sources. We also provide the opportunity for families and funeral directors to publish a more extensive, special notice about their loved one called an obituary. These notices are published on our website immediately and then in the next edition of this newspaper. To place a paid obituary send an email to obits@thelocalsource.com or fax to 908-688-0401. Family and friends’ submissions must include sender’s name, address, phone and the name of the funeral home. Call 908-686-7850 for assistance.

three children from Calvary Nursery School and Child Care are in one of the Cranford Fire Department’s fire trucks that was at the Black Party and Ice Cream Social; and right, children stand together at the Black Party and Ice Cream Social, including one wearing a ‘Happy Birthday’ paper hat.

‘Week of the Young Child’ is celebrated in Cranford

By David Jablonski Managing Editor

Holly Street came alive on Tuesday, April 4, when it was closed off for Calvary Nursery School and Child Care’s annual Block Party and Ice Cream Social, in celebration of the national “Week of the Young Child.” CNSCC welcomed the staff, children and families of Cranford’s own Helen K. Baldwin Nursery School and St. Michael School’s Early Childhood Program to the event.

The annual Block Party and Ice Cream Social is part of the national celebrations that took place last week across the country, organized by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Cranford’s early childhood community united for a special hands-on event featuring a petting zoo, Bubble Show, a “Celebration of Literacy” obstacle course run by Lauren Antolino, the head of Children’s Services at the Cranford Public Library, and the Cranford Township Police and Fire departments, with their vehicles for the children to explore.

“They call it a Block Party and Ice Cream Social,” said Claire Fiebiger, treasurer of the Calvary Nursery School board for the past 14 years, in an interview with LocalSource on Wednesday, April 5. “They had the ice cream guy there and the kids got to walk into the command vehicle for the police station. They got to climb on the fire truck. They had a bubble machine, too.”

Young children and their families depend upon high-quality education and care, both of which bring lasting benefits to the community. The “Week of the Young Child” is a time to recognize the importance of early learning and early literacy, and to celebrate the teachers and policies that bring early childhood education to young children.

“This is either the 16th or 17th year

we’ve done this,” said Fiebiger. “We skipped at least 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

This year’s event got right back into the swing of things.

“They closed down Holly Street by Calvary and set up their cars and stuff,” Fiebiger said. “They closed down that block. There was a petting zoo, which had chicks, goats, a lamb and bunnies.”

“Experts tell us that 90% of all brain development occurs by the age of 5. The experiences our young children encounter during this time shape their future learning and development,” said Stacy Nick, director of CNSCC, in a press release.

“This fun event is a great way to recognize the importance of early learning for all young children and to bring Cranford together to recognize those who dedicate their lives to working with them.”

Fiebiger said more than 125 people attended the annual Block Party and Ice Cream Social, an impressive number for an event that only ran from 10 to 11 a.m. She said even Cranford’s mayor, Brian

Andrews, was there to enjoy the festivities.

“We know how important early education is for our children and their future success. Cranford is blessed to have

engaged and active parents, a number of high-quality early education providers, and a diverse offering of activities and

See ANNUAL, Page 9

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Above, left, school children enjoy themselves while taking part in the Bubble Show at the Black Party & Ice Cream Social; second from left, some children from St. Michael School’s Early Childhood Program stand near the ice cream truck that was there for the Ice Cream Social on Holly Street by Calvary Nursery School and Child Care; third from left,

Photos Courtesy of Calvary Nursery School

Above left, children stand with teachers and representatives from the Cranford Police Department in front of CPD’s command center, a huge police van, at the Black Party and Ice Cream Social in celebration of the ‘Week of the Young Child’ on Tuesday, April 4. Above right, a teen holds a rabbit while one of the children from Helen K. Baldwin Nursery School pets the animal. The petting zoo offered chicks, goats, a lamb and rabbits.

Annual Block Party and Ice Cream Social a big success

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programs to engage young minds,” said Andrews in a press release. “We are grateful for this special week where we can highlight the vital educators who provide essential services for Cranford’s youngest members. I’m proud to join our community in celebrating our children and saluting the dedicated staff who care and educate for them.”

Fiebiger, who’s also a member of Calvary Lutheran Church, said while he was at the event, “The mayor gave

us a proclamation,” honoring them for their efforts.

But Nick, who’s been the director of Calvary Nursing School and Child Care for more than 20 years, said recognition wasn’t the reason they sponsor the event year after year.

“We do this to celebrate the early childhood community in Cranford and unite us in a fun-filled event supported by parents, staff and the Cranford Police Department and Fire Department,” she said.

“The weather was beautiful,” said Fieberger, who

added, “I want to thank the Cranford Police Department and the Cranford Fire Department for their participation.”

She also praised Cranford’s Police and Fire departments for spending time with the children and making the Block Party and Ice Cream Social a success.

“It’s for the children to get involved with the policeman and fireman and know who they are and get familiar with them – to not be afraid and have some sort of a rapport,” she said.

Photos Courtesy of Calvary Nursery School

Above, left, two children stand on the rear part of a fire truck brought to the Black Party and Ice Cream Social by the Cranford Fire Department; second from left, more children enjoy the bubbles that are part of the Bubble Show at the event; third from left, one of the children from Helen

K. Baldwin Nursery School holds a chick from the petting zoo; and right, children from St. Michael School’s Early Childhood Program and their guardians walk along Holly Street toward the ice cream truck to take part in the Ice Cream Social.

Union College student selected as Kaplan Leadership Scholar

Union College of Union County has announced that student Junaid Ilyas, of Roselle Park, has been selected as a Kaplan Leadership Scholar. Ilyas is one of only 11 students selected nationwide as a Kaplan Leadership Scholar.

The Kaplan Leadership Scholar Program, which is a part of the Kaplan Educational Foundation, targets students at two-year schools who demonstrate financial need, leadership potential and educational acumen.

While pursuing his degree in engineering at Union, Ilyas also serves as a tutor to his fellow students in the Academic Learning Center and is an American Honors student. Regarding Ilyas’ future, he plans to further his education by pursuing a bachelor’s and master’s degree in mechanical engineering, with a career goal of being a vehicle engineer. Specifically, he plans to be a part of the innovation side of vehicle design, creating ideas that he believes “other gear-heads would go crazy over.”

“Junaid is a dedicated student and is a great example of hard work resulting in tremendous opportunity,” said Union College President Margaret M. McMenamin.

“The financial support provided by the Kaplan Educational Foundation is transformative, and we are proud of Junaid for

Union College of Union County welcomes new dean of students

Union College of Union County welcomed Charnette Hockaday as the new dean of students. Hockaday has worked in the field of higher education and student affairs for 18 years. Before joining Union, Hockaday served as associate dean of students at New Jersey Institute of Technology.

Hockaday earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from Fairleigh Dickinson University and a juris doctorate from Rutgers Law School. She began her career in student affairs at Stony Brook University and NJIT, working in residence life at both universities.

direct oversight of the assistant dean of students, Disability Support Services and Veteran Affairs, College Life and Athletics, and Social Work Services. Also included is overseeing the advocacy and support of students of concern and serving as chair of the CARE Team, a multidisciplinary team that works to assist students in need of personal and/or academic resources. Hockaday will serve as the college’s Title IX deputy coordinator, assisting with compliance as it relates to higher education and federal regulations and laws directly impacting students.

being one of only 11 students across the country to be selected for this honor.”

Ilyas is the fourth student from Union selected as a Kaplan Leadership Scholar. Marlon Artega, Union Class of ’22, shared his experience being selected as a scholar.

In her most recent role, Hockaday returned to NJIT as the associate dean of students where she was responsible for the adjudication of academic integrity and student conduct violations, in addition to providing general support to students as a member of the dean of students team. During her time as associate dean at NJIT, Hockaday oversaw student affairs departments such as Counseling Services and Residence Life.

At Union, Hockaday will provide

“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Hockaday to the Union community,” said Union’s president, Margaret M. McMenamin. “Her expertise in student affairs and program development are critical for student support at the College.”

Hockaday has participated as a member in various professional organizations, including the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, Association for College Professional Administrators and Association for Student Conduct Administration.

Photo Courtesy of Margaret Ortuso

Junaid Ilyas

Earning a juris doctorate from Rutgers, Hockaday has worked at Stony Brook and NJIT

Cranford college sees six students vie for scholarship

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Thomas Memorial Award, which is awarded to a student from the graduating class who has at least a 3.25 GPA, has participated in college life through service in college activities and/or sports, and has completed community service. Guerra currently attends Kean University, where she studies management and business analytics. Her career goals are to obtain a master’s degree in business analytics and earn a doctorate in data analysis and use those skills working for a business or an organization.

Junaid Ilyas has a 3.89 GPA and is studying engineering. He is a Kaplan Scholar, member of the American Honors Program, and a tutor in Union’s ALC. Ilyas is also the senator for Union College of Union County’s Engineering Society and part of Project Achievement, UCUC’s student success initiative for

Black male students. Regarding Ilyas’ future, he plans to further his education by pursuing a bachelor’s and master’s degree in mechanical engineering, with a career goal of being a vehicle engineer, specifically, being part of the innovation side of vehicle design, creating ideas that he believes “other gear-heads would go crazy over.”

Yeicob Martinez has a 3.65 GPA and is studying business. He currently serves as president of Union College of Union County’s Iota Xi chapter of PTK and is a member of the American Honors Program. When he isn’t hitting the books, Martinez is spiking balls as co-captain of the men’s volleyball team at UCUC. Martinez plans to continue his education at a four-year institution and then a master’s, studying business administration and finance. As for career goals, Martinez wants to enter a private equity or be an

employee at AMD, a company he has always admired.

Carine Medellus has a 4.0 and is studying biology. Medellus is the committee leader of Scholarship in PTK, vice president of the Research Club, an American Honors Program student and an ALC tutor. Medellus was also selected as one of only 20 students nationwide to be a member of the 2023 All-USA Academic Team which is sponsored by Cengage with additional support provided by the American Association of Community Colleges and PTK. Medellus plans to transfer to a four-year university and study biochemistry, and her career goal is to focus on scientific research.

“What an accomplishment for these six scholars to be selected as semifinalists for the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. Their hard work, the focus on their academic studies,

as well as their involvement at Union has paid off with this great recognition,” said Union President Margaret M. McMenamin. “We are grateful to our previous JKCF transfer scholarship recipients, McDaniel Jeantus (UCUC ’16) and Mark Farag (UCUC ’22) for coming back to help our next scholars. This is a transformative opportunity for students to receive funding and support for their education, and we wish each of our six semifinalists the best of luck.”

Recipients of the JKCF Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship are expected to be announced in April. Union College of Union County is a public, comprehensive community college that provides quality, affordable, accessible educational programs to the greater Union County region. It is the first of New Jersey’s 18 two-year colleges, serving both career-minded and transfer-oriented students since 1933.

Union College business student opens protein bar in Cranford

Kamily Flores, of Elizabeth, has opened Craft Protein Bar, a place to get meal replacement shakes, protein coffee, tea and more in downtown Cranford. When she’s not at Craft and running her business, Flores attends Union College of Union County, studying business marketing. Inspired by her parents’ own success in running a health and wellness business, Flores plans to put her business degree at Union to good use as she aspires to expand Craft in the future.

At only 19 years old, Flores decided to open her business with encouragement from her parents, who immigrated to the United States when they were 19, making Flores a first-generation American and college student.

The concept for Craft came from her own experience. Flores and her parents wanted to be healthier, so they created their own drinks and replacement shakes,

ANTI

experimenting with different combinations and flavors. As they continued making the shakes, the family lost a combined 60 pounds and gained significantly more energy.

Fast forward to December 2022, when Flores decided to take her family’s original recipes and bring them to the public by opening Craft. Some of the most popular drinks from the menu include the Cookie Monster, Fruity Pebbles and the Jolly Rancher. Each drink has at least 30 grams of protein and is less than 300 calories.

Arguably, many people who want to open a business never do so due to fear of failure. “You never know until you take the risk,” Flores said. “I have nothing to lose. There’s a health problem in the United States and everyone is on the go. At Craft, you can quickly grab something delicious, and you know you’re getting something healthy.”

When she’s not at Craft, Flores is studying business marketing at Union. Flores said she appreciates the flexibility and scheduling that Union offers, as she needs to have time in her day to run her business in between completing her business homework assignments.

“Kamily is an inspiration, not only to our students but to our college community. It takes a lot of courage to open a business and we know that she is learning skills for continued success during her

time at Union,” stated Union’s president, Margaret M. McMenamin.

When she finishes at Union, Flores plans to continue her education and expand her business. She said she is grateful for the opportunity to open her own business and hopes to motivate future business owners. Flores is one of many students studying business marketing at Union. Flores is a role-model in her family, community and college.

Photo Courtesy of Margaret Ortuso

Kamily Flores

Camp Invention’s fun program coming to Orange Avenue School

Camp Invention, a nationally recognized, nonprofit summer enrichment program, is coming to Orange Avenue School the week of June 26 through June 30.

A program of the National Inventors Hall of Fame, in partnership with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, Camp Invention challenges children in kindergarten through sixth grade to tap into their natural curiosity and use their creativity to solve problems. Through hands-on activities, Camp Invention promotes STEM — science, technology, engineering and mathematics

— learning; builds confidence, leadership, perseverance and resourcefulness; and encourages entrepreneurship, all in a fun and engaging environment.

Each year, the program features a new curriculum inspired by some of our nation’s most world-changing inventors

— the National Inventors Hall of Fame Inductees. This year's Wonder program encourages children to be confident in their ideas and explore their innovativeness though hands-on activities including:

• Catching Air: Taking a confidencebuilding ride through physics, engineer-

ing and art, children design and build their own skate park;

• Invention Celebration: Campers take on the role of event planners as they throw a party celebrating creativity and innovation;

• MimicBot: Children show their unique style when they transform a robot that mimics sounds into a one-of-a-kind animatronic stuffie; and

• Pop-Up Venture: Big ideas come to life as campers design their own mini popup business.

“Both of my kids loved Camp Invention! They loved having the opportunity

to create, innovate and iterate what they had learned,” said the parent of 2022 Camp Invention campers. “They were intensely proud to tell of their work each day and to showcase their projects at the end of the week.”

All local Camp Invention programs are facilitated and taught by qualified educators who reside and teach in the community. Camp Invention serves 118,000 students every year and partners with more than 2,200 schools and districts across the nation. For more information or to register, visit invent.org/camp.

Spring cleaning and recycling tips for Union County residents

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites all residents to bring their spring cleaning recyclables to countywide drop-off events. These countywide events provide a free, convenient way to clear out personal documents for secure shredding and recycling, unwanted metal items for resource recovery and household chemicals, smoke detectors and many other potentially dangerous products for safe disposal.

“We encourage everyone in Union County to participate in our countywide recycling events and in their municipal programs, too. There are many opportunities to pitch in and help increase the recycling rate in our community, especially during spring cleaning season when the waste can pile up,” said Union County Commissioner Chairperson Sergio Granados.

Residents can participate in additional recycling programs for plastic film, electronics, block-type Styrofoam, fluorescent light bulbs and used motor oil. These pro-

grams are available at municipal drop-off sites with support from the Commissioner Board.

Union County’s Bureau of Recycling and Planning also advises using the “3 R’s” during spring cleaning this year, to avoid creating unnecessary and burdensome waste next year.

1. Reduce: Avoid purchasing new items that are similar to the ones that have been sitting unused in your garage or other storage area.

2. Re-use: Items in good condition can be cleaned up and sold at a garage sale or donated to charity. In some areas, local freecycling programs and online “buy-nothing” clubs are available for residents to give away unwanted items within their community

3. Recycle: Check with your local recycling coordinator or download the free Recycle Coach app to stay up-todate on all recycling opportunities in Union County, including local curbside pickup schedules as well as

drop-off programs. Recycle Coach also provides a handy “What Goes Where?” feature that makes it easy to sort items for recycling.

Union County residents who have a yard or community garden can also help divert useful resources from the waste stream — and save money — by recycling their kitchen scraps into compost.

Compost is a natural soil enhancer that helps reduce the need for artificial fertilizers. Visit ucnj.org/recycling to learn more about composting.

Experts from the Union County Bureau of Recycling and Planning are available to present recycling information to schools, community groups and other organizations. To schedule a program contact Heather Miara, heather.miara@ucnj.org.

For more information and updates on all Union County recycling programs and locations, visit the Bureau of Recycling and Planning website at ucnj.org/recycle.

‘Super Mario Stroll’ is another event created by Cranford’s DMC

(Continued from Page 1)

including Mario’s Cotton Candy Stand, Bowser’s Temporary Tattoo Station, Luigi’s Mustache Station and Yoshi’s Pink Lemonade Stand.

“The Cranford theater let us know that the Mario movie was coming out and we always try to do events that are associated with our local theater,” Demyen said. “We thought of doing something fun to celebrate Mario and get kids out to enjoy the film at the theater.”

Events such as this only work with the involvement of local businesses, which is part of the rationale behind the creation of the Cranford DMC in the first place. Its existence has even prompted business owners to relocate to Cranford.

“We decided to move our business to Cranford in 2011. We found out that there was great downtown management that helps businesses grow,” Ligia DeJesus, owner of Cake Artist Cafe, told LocalSource. “We always try to participate in events like this. There have been a lot of cute kids coming by today looking for treats and many happy parents.”

“I opened my business here in 2013 and Downtown Cranford Management has always been great to work with,” Kim Capece, owner of Augusta Mae Boutique, told LocalSource. “Events like this help to promote the local businesses and the owners to both residents and people who come in from out of town.”

“I love any time that kids get to come out and share in common intellectual property like Mario that everyone loves, it is really fun,” Peter Mandle, owner of Rogue Comics, told LocalSource. “We sell Mario figures and merchandise in this store, so it all works. Unfortunately, Mario does not have a comic book series. That could potentially change after the success of the film.”

Much of the praise from local business owners was directed not just at the Cranford DMC, but at Demyen herself. As Cranford’s DMC director, Demyen is responsible for producing events throughout the town. Each event has a different theme, which serves each business separately.

“Every month, Caren puts together events to help promote walkability and foot traffic toward local businesses, and local owners have the option to participate or not take part,” Capece said. “I love taking part in events like this right before the holidays. Who does not love to hear kids laughing or having fun?”

Increased foot traffic and getting families out to local business was a consistent theme that came up among business owners in Cranford.

“Downtown Cranford asks every business owner in town if they want to participate in their events and we always participate,” Corinne Ardente, owner of Anthem style & gift, as well as Max & Luna, told LocalSource. “I have been in business in Cranford for almost eight years and these events are always good. It increases foot traffic and gets families to come into the stores and see what we have. Also, a lot of people come from surrounding towns.

“Last week there was a ‘Spring Hop’ for Easter and, in the fall, there was a ‘Cranford Stroll’ and different fall and Halloween events. Around Christmas time, there are different shopping events and strolls around town. I love to see the kids enjoying the events that the town puts on,” Ardente said.

Kristen Mider, the chairperson of

Downtown Management, praised Demyen for the initiatives she’s created and how the money raised serves the community.

“All of the events that take place downtown come out of the DMC office that Caren directs,” Mider told LocalSource. “Some of our more popular events include the Scarecrow Stroll and the Superhero Stroll. Those events raise money for project graduation. We also collect canned soups to give to local shelters. Our events are often tied to bringing the community together and raising funds for people who need it the most.”

Demyen and Mider have been working together on these events for three years,

helping each other to promote and support businesses and other initiatives in Cranford.

“Caren has been the director for nearly three years. I have been on the board for five years and chair(person) of the board for three years,” Mider said. “I was invited to join the board and feel that what the DMC does in regard to events, maintenance and supporting small businesses is so important. It is a great board, made up of people who want to see our downtown area thrive.”

The Mario Stroll is one more example of Cranford’s DMC working to better the township for its residents.

Photos by Javon Ross

Above left, children receive temporary tattoos at the ‘Super Mario Stroll,’ which took place on Friday, April 7, and Saturday, April 8, in Cranford’s Downtown; above right, children get their faces painted; and below; Cranford Downtown Management Corp. Director Caren Demyen serves cotton candy to children at the ‘Super Mario Stroll.’

Peregrine falcons start a new family in Union County

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents and bird watchers from throughout the world to tune into the free Union County Falcon Cam livestream at ucnj.org/falcon. The Falcon Cam provides an up-close look at two peregrine falcons, who are nesting on the roof of the Union County Courthouse in Elizabeth.

The falcons are keeping watch over four newly laid eggs. The eggs will hatch toward the end of April.

“The Falcon Cam provides a window into the world of a fierce, fascinating bird that has been restored to our area through the efforts of preservationists. We are very proud to participate in the restoration effort and help foster an appreciation for environmental protection and conservation. In Union County we work toward significant contributions to preserve and protect endangered wildlife,” said Union County Commissioner Chairperson Sergio Granados.

The population of peregrine falcons in the U.S. was decimated in the 20th century by pollutants, including the pesticide DDT. They were put on the federal endangered species list in 1973. Following improvements in many parts of the country, the falcons were removed from the federal list in 1999; however, they remain an endangered species in New Jersey.

Union County participated in the restoration effort in 2006, when county personnel affixed a nesting box to the Courthouse Tower roof, with the guidance of state wildlife experts.

Every year since then, a pair of peregrine falcons has laid eggs in the nesting box. Cameras were also added in 2016 to provide the 24/7 Falcon Cam livestream of the interior and exterior of the nest.

The Commissioner Board has also partnered with the Conserve Wildlife Foundation in education and public outreach programs related to the Falcon Cam.

For more news and updates from the Falcon Cam, visit Conserve Wildlife Foundation at conservewildlifenj.org/education/uc-falconcam.

Photo Courtesy of Tina Casey

Two peregrine falcons are watching over four new eggs in their nest, located on the rooftop of the historic Union County Courthouse Tower at 2 Broad St., Elizabeth. The eggs were laid in March and are expected to hatch toward the end of April.