The First Presbyterian Church of Cranford recently hosted a Mardi Gras-themed “Fat Sunday Bingo Brunch.” More than 100 church members of all ages gathered for delicious food and Bingo games.
“Everyone can play Bingo,” said elder Laura Simone. “And with Shrove Tuesday coming up, we decided to pair the two things together and serve a wonderful pancake brunch, too.”
“Fat Sunday Bingo Brunch” is a nod to Fat Tuesday, also known as Shrove Tuesday. This is the day before Ash Wednesday, when tradition calls on people to use up rich foods, such as eggs, milk, butter and sugar, to prepare for a period of simpler eating – and/or fasting– during the 40 days of Lent. “That’s why you see a lot of pancake breakfasts this time of year,” said Simone.
The Rev. Jin Bae, senior pastor, said, “We are a family of faith connected through shared beliefs. But with so many new families and members joining, we don’t all know each other as well as we could. Events like this are a perfect way to encourage community and connection.”
The church’s gym was gloriously decorated in colors of purple, gold and green. Jazz music was played, while church members mingled. The church’s youth group served warm pancakes, hash browns, scrambled eggs and bacon. The food was catered by IHOP in Union.
After the breakfast, the Bingo games began. “We saw our youngest members really shine,” said Simone.
The first two winners, elementary students Elisabeth and Abigail, selected prizes from an array of full-sized candy bars, with Kit Kats proving the most popular.
The First Presbyterian Church of Cranford is a member church of the Presbyte-
Presbyterian Church
Above, Youth Group members, along with elder Karen Cassidy, get ready to serve brunch at The First Presbyterian Church of Cranford’s recent Mardi Gras-themed ‘Fat Tuesday Bingo Brunch.’ Below, the Rev. Jin Bae, senior pastor, and Taylor Piane stand together with their prizes. Bingo callers Karen and Ben are in the background.
rian Church. Each Presbyterian church has its own elected leaders called elders and deacons who work together with the pastoral staff to provide opportunities to establish and deepen your faith and put it into action.
The First Presbyterian Church of Cranford believes that a relationship with God, provided through Jesus, can change your life and, by extension, can help you to change the lives of others around you.
The First Presbyterian Church of Cranford is located at 11 Springfield Ave. For more information, visit: https://firstprescranford.org/.
Photos Courtesy of First
of Cranford
Cranford student earns national recognition in Nengajo Design Contest
For more than 15 years, students in Cranford’s Japanese classes have participated in a creative project to design Nengajo, traditional New Year’s greeting cards exchanged in Japan to wish for a prosperous and auspicious year. This year, Hillside Avenue School sixth-grader Elina Pan placed third nationally out of 597 participants in the American Association of Teachers of Japanese Nengajo Design Contest.
Elina’s outstanding “Year of the Snake” design earned her an award in the Computer-Generated category, marking a historic achievement as the first time anyone from Cranford has won an award in this prestigious competition. Her work, along with other student entries, is proudly displayed on the bulletin board in the middle school wing.
“This competition supports students’ use of and passion for the Japanese language and culture,” said Japanese teacher Catherine Fisco. “Rather than just learning about it, they are fully immersed in the significance and experience of Nengajo.”
“This contest is just one of many cultural activities that are incorporated throughout the year to help students connect with Japanese language and traditions,” Fisco continued. “Hands-on experiences make learning more immersive and help reinforce language skills in a natural way. It’s rewarding to see students develop not just language skills, but also a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture through these activities.”
For more than 15 years, students in Cranford’s Japanese classes have participated in a creative project to design Nengajo, traditional New Year’s greeting cards exchanged in Japan to wish for a prosperous and auspicious year. This year, Hillside Avenue School sixth-grader Elina Pan placed third nationally out of 597 participants in the American Association of Teachers of Japanese Nengajo Design Contest.
Photo Courtesy of Rose Pezzuti
Cranford hosts its inaugural St. Patrick’s Day Parade
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
Cranford’s inaugural St. Patrick’s Day Parade started at the Cranford Community Center on Sunday, March 16. It continued down Walnut Avenue through Downtown Cranford, ending at the gazebo on the corner of Springfield and North Union avenues.
The parade lineup included: VFW Honor Guard, Union County Pipes and Drums, Shea Jennings Dance School, Ancient Order of Hibernians, Knights of Columbus, St. Michael’s Youth Group, Daughters of Ireland, Union County Celtic Festival, Cranford PAL Cheerleading, CHS Band, Cranford Wrestling Cougars, Cranford Jaycees, Girls Scouts, Boy Scouts, Diamondettes Baton Group, Cranford Newcomer’s Club, Cranford Women’s Club, Cranford Historical Society, Cranford Library, Friends of Cranford Library, Cranford Elks Lodge No. 2006, Cranford Revolution 250 Committee, VFW Post No. 335, 2024 Memorial Day Grand Marshal Jay Flanagan, Cranford Fire Department, Cranford First Aid Squad and Cranford Police Department.
Marching with the parade trustees and founders was Mary O’Connor, Irish Woman of the Year; and Dave Farell, Irish Man of the Year.
Kathy Phelps, who has been a resident of Cranford for nine years, said, “This is a great town, and they put on a lot of great events. I’m excited to see the first parade.”
Erin Hall was with her children, William, 6, and Madelyn, 3. She said, “The first parade was great. We all had a blast. I’m very proud to be a resident.”
Laura Kruglinkski was with her children Teddy, 5, and Esme, 8. She said, “It was fantastic!” She’s been a resident of Cranford for eight years.
Dale Buchheister is a former Cranford resident who came upstate to see the parade. He said, “I like it. There were a lot of old-time cars.”
While the Union St. Patrick’s Day Parade was on Saturday, March 15, Cranford had their parade on Sunday, March 16 – the busiest day for New Jersey parades. Other New Jersey towns having parades on that day included Bergenfield, Clinton, Jersey City, Somerville, South Amboy and West Orange.
Photo by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Saint Michael's Youth Ministry Program marches through the township for Cranford’s first St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, March 16. See more photos, Page 12.
Spring break is almost here and the Recreation and Parks Department has a lineup of programs to keep children occupied during the week of April 14.
“Our Cranford Recreation and Parks Department camp offerings are just some of the many great things about living in Cranford. My own children have participated in many of these camps, with fun times had and memories made,” said Deputy Mayor Paul A. Gallo.
Spring break programs include:
• Stem Camp: Lego Robotics and Coding – Spring Fun Camp – This fun and interactive camp will introduce children to coding, robotics, and engineering using the LEGO Education Robotics Construction Sets. Throughout the week, campers will combine hands-on STEM activities and team challenges to learn coding, problem-solving and critical thinking skills. They will work in pairs on building models using sensors and motors that will allow them to code their prototypes to simulate amusement park rides. Young engineers will learn and gain confidence as they build and test their designs, reinforcing these concepts.
• Slimergency – Dip into the world of sensory slime! Each day will offer handson creation of different types of slime, how to make it, fix it and preserve it. There will be a different theme, texture, color and scent each day.
• Fire’s 1 Day Basketball Clinic – These basketball clinics will stress the funda-
during the week of April 14.
mentals of basketball, including ball handling, dribbling drills, lectures, games and contests. Clinic director Bob Firestone is the former head basketball coach at St. Mary’s High School in Elizabeth. Firestone has had the privilege of coaching in the first Girl’s McDonald’s Basketball Classic at Madison Square Garden. Coach Fire was inducted into the Elizabeth Hall of Fame and the Linden Hall of Fame.
Mad Science Eureka: The Inventors’ Camp – Children overcome a series of challenges using basic materials, simple machines, tips from famous inventors, and most importantly, their minds. With a bit of ingenuity, they create catapults and forts, construct working light sticks, and
assemble a set of circuits with batteries and light bulbs.
RoboThink, Welcome to the Enchanting World of RoboThink Land! – As the newest rollercoaster engineer, your child will embark on a thrilling adventure to create the most incredible amusement park ever! Using motors, axles, gears, and more, they’ll bring their imagination to life by designing and constructing a wide variety of thrilling theme park rides. From the majestic Ferris Wheel to the heartpounding rollercoaster, get ready for a whirlwind of excitement and fun! No prior experience necessary – just come prepared to let your creativity run wild!
Kiddie’s Kaleidoscope, School’s Out –
Spring Mini Camp – Children will have a blast learning through hands-on activities featuring experiments, curated books and art while exploring lessons involving: science, engineering, robotics, math, reading, geography and art.
More information, such as ages and times, are found in the Spring Brochure available on the Recreation and Parks Department website at www.cranfordrecreation.org.
Registration can be done online through Community Pass, register.communitypass.net/Cranford or in person at the Community Center, 220 Walnut Ave. Email recreation@cranfordnj.org or call 908-709-7283 with questions.
Photos Courtesy of Cranford Recreation and Parks Department
Cranford Recreation and Parks Department has spring break covered with fun and educational programs for children
CFEE raises $30K at eighth annual Trivia Night
The eighth annual Trivia Night, which was on Wednesday, Feb. 22, at the Kenilworth VFW and organized by the Cranford Fund for Educational Excellence, raised $30,000 to benefit Cranford public school students, thanks to the support of sponsors as well as parents and community members who took part in the lively event.
More than 250 people attended Trivia Night, with 27 teams competing and E34 Events providing the musical backdrop for the high-spirited contest. It was an evening of laughter, elation, high-fives, hugs and, toward the end of the evening, dancing in the aisles.
All proceeds from the event will be awarded as grants for the 2025-2026 school year to Cranford teachers who are seeking new ways to engage and educate their students. CFEE grants have funded everything from robotics and 3D printers to math learning kits, website access, STEM education tools and more.
“When I think of Cranford, this is what I think about – people coming together for the common good to help support each other,” said Cranford Superintendent Scott Rubin, addressing the crowd at the event. “Give yourselves a nice round of applause for helping to support (CFEE’s efforts),” he added.
CFEE board member Karen Bennett served as the evening’s emcee and pre-
Team ‘Trivial Prosciutto’ took first place and will be featured on a billboard in downtown Cranford this spring, plus get its own limited edition ice cream flavor at Cranford Vanilla Bean Creamery – Antonio ‘Soppressata’ Pugliese, Fran ‘Finocchiona’ Pugliese, Jeff ‘Guanciale’ Samson, Kirsten ‘Cappacuolo’ Samson, Meghan ‘Gabagool’ Masiulis, Keith ‘Cured Meat’ Masiulis, Meryl ‘Focaccia’ Futey, Ricky ‘Ribeye’ Schwerdt, Kim ‘Corned Bee’ O’Malley and Ameet ‘Mortadella’ Doshi.
sented eight rounds of challenging questions devised by a board committee led by trivia masters Barry Horbal and Robert
Lukenda. Bernie Wagenblast, resident Cranford celebrity, who hosts Cranford Radio and was formerly the voice of Shad-
Monday-Thursday 12:00PM–08:30PM
12:00PM–09:00PM
12:00PM–08:30PM
ow Traffic for WABC and 1010 WINS, kicked off the night presenting the “Americana” category. Teams were also asked to take the “written exam,” which had them guessing the correct name of Cranford parks based on photos. The category to “finish the ’90s lyrics” rounded out the night and had everyone in the crowd singing “Genie in a Bottle” and “Kiss From A Rose.” This year’s event welcomed new teams including the “CFEE All Stars,” composed of Cranford teachers and past grant winners, and returning teams the Red Hot Trivia Peppers, Saucy Hooligans and The Sherlock Holmies.
An A+ for sponsors
CFEE is a Cranford-based nonprofit foundation that supports excellence and innovation in the Cranford public schools by generating resources through community involvement, and Trivia Night is the organization’s signature annual event. Funds were raised from team entry fees, 50/50 raffle and sponsorships. CFEE proudly featured 41 businesses and families who supported the event with sponsorships ranging from $150 to $5,000 going to the top sponsors:
“Principal” Sponsor: MWT Builders
“Facilities Director” Sponsors: Beyond Dance, Lincoln Investment Planning and the Cranford Jaycees
“Academic Dean” Sponsors: Keating
See EIGHTH, Page 7
Photos Courtesy of Jenn McComb
Library Children’s Room has expansion groundbreaking ceremony
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
The Cranford Public Library has begun construction on a major expansion of its Children’s Room.
A groundbreaking ceremony was on Monday, March 3, in front of the library to celebrate this significant milestone. A small crowd gathered in the cold to hear brief remarks from Senate President Nicholas Scutari, Mayor Dr. Terrence Curran, library trustee board President Susan Burke, library Director Kathryn Cannarozzi and Township Commissioner Brian Andrews, liaison and mayor’s designee to the library board. Assemblywoman Linda S. Carter was also in attendance.
“This is the formal groundbreaking multi-million-dollar project,” said Andrews. “The children’s room needed more space for programming. Senate President Nicholas Scutari and Assemblywoman Linda Carter recognized the importance of making it a reality. We formally broke ground on the project.”
Burke said, “How excited and appreciative we all are. We’ve been talking about – and dreaming about – this for 10 years. We can’t wait to share with the Cranford community the new space.”
Curran said, “We’re really excited. Just in time for spring.”
Above left, Township Commissioner Brian Andrews, liaison and mayor’s designee to the library board, addresses those in attendance at the groundbreaking ceremony for the renovation and expansion of the Children’s Room at the Cranford Public Library on Monday, March 3. Above center, Library Trustee Board President Susan Burke tells those in attendance at the groundbreaking ceremony at the Cranford Public Library how excited and appreciative she is for being able to add all this new space to the Children’s Room. Above right, Mayor Dr. Terrence Curran says how excited he is for this construction to begin at the library, just in time for spring.
Scutari, a key advocate for securing funding for the project, said, “I had a great interest in taking Cranford on. It’s such a lovely town. It’s been my honor and pleasure to be helpful.”
Cannarozzi said, “I came to this library in May 2023. Within 30 days, I was told they have funding for the children’s library, which is now temporarily located in the community center, open whenever the library’s open.”
In a ceremonial groundbreaking, the speakers took shovels and tossed dirt while the crowd cheered.
On Tuesday, March 4, there was a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially recognize their first program in the temporary location of the library’s Children’s Department at the Cranford Community Center.
Construction was scheduled to begin on Wednesday, March 5.
Grove Contracting LLC has been selected as the construction manager for the project. This recommendation was officially approved by the Township Committee at their meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 3. The formal approval allowed the Cranford Public Library to move forward with the construction phase of the project.
This exciting project will double the size of the current space, creating a bright,
modern and inviting area for the library’s youngest patrons. The expanded room will feature large, sun-filled windows and a spacious layout designed to foster learning, creativity and a love of reading.
The new children’s room will also be getting its own brand-new heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system on the expanded roof. This will keep the temperature comfortable for staff and visitors, enabling them to enjoy the new space in comfort.
This renovation will create a more welcoming and stimulating environment for children of all ages. The Children’s Room, which has the largest use/square foot of any space in the library, hasn’t been updated since 2002.
To learn more about the new Children’s Room, visit: https://www.cranfordlibrary.org/library-expansion.
Publisher: David Worrall
Managing Editor: David Jablonski
Advertising Manager: Joseph Farina
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Eighth annual Trivia Night is
(Continued from Page 5)
Physical Therapy, Lukenda Dental, ProCare Rehabilitation, Cranford Women’s Club, NJ Family Medical, Schuster Family Orthodontics and A&W Chiropractic
Winning teams ace the test
Congratulations to team “Trivial Prosciutto,” which took home first place and will be featured on a billboard in downtown Cranford this spring, plus get its own limited edition ice cream flavor at Cranford Vanilla Bean Creamery – Antonio “Soppressata ” Pugliese, Fran “Finocchiona” Pugliese, Jeff “Guanciale” Samson, Kirsten “Cappacuolo” Samson, Meghan “Gabagool” Masiulis, Keith “Cured Meat” Masiulis, Meryl “Focaccia” Futey, Ricky “Ribeye” Schwerdt, Kim “Corned Beef” O’Malley and Ameet “Mortadella” Doshi.
The team, “CranGPT,” took home the second-place prize – Christine DelRe, Matt DelRe, Christine Bove, Justin Bove, Beth Rees, Shaun Rees, Jen Lenza, Chris Lenza, Claire Cooper and Ryan Cooper.
The trivia scores were close, making it anyone's trophy for the taking, but a tiebreaker showdown at the end helped determine the third-place title, which was claimed by the “Harvard Road Scholars” –Jason McComb, Krista Swanson, Scott Swanson, Chrissy Lukenda, Dave Towne, Ali Holstein, Pete Shayer, Leah Shayer and Alicia Bitondo. All winners walked away with bragging rights and a coveted
Above left, Team ‘CranGPT’ took home the second-place prize – Christine DelRe, Matt DelRe, Christine
Justin Bove, Beth Rees, Shaun Rees, Jen Lenza, Chris Lenza, Claire Cooper and Ryan Cooper. Above right, the third-place title was claimed by the ‘Harvard Road Scholars’ – Jason McComb, Krista Swanson, Scott Swanson, Chrissy Lukenda, Dave Towne, Ali Holstein, Pete Shayer, Leah Shayer and Alicia Bitondo.
lawn sign to display proudly.
There was no contest when it came to the Spirit Award winners, who showed up to take home the glory: Class Clowns, “Pajama Day” – John Brereton, Mary Brereton, Ben Cohen, Kristin Cohen, Christian Decker, Liz Decker, Patrick Kelly, Viktoriya Kelley, Dave Waring and Jillian Waring; Most Team Spirited, “Cranford
Smartini Sisters” – Asavari Alvarez, Nicole Cippoletti, Sarah Clark, Dinah Dunn, Christine Esposito, Sue Leahy, Jenn Messina, Helen Niblock, Chrissie Shivers and Lori Talbot; and Best Dressed, “Rockin’ Quizards” – Jaclyn Horbal, Jen Shah, Marisa Wilhelm, Matt DeLorenzo, Sheryl DeLorenzo, Kevin Kelly, Nicole Kelly, John Forsman and Cathy Mannarino.
Since 2016, CFEE has awarded more than $350,000 in grants in categories such as differentiated or personalized education, technology integration and 21st-century skills, innovation zones/makerspaces and classroom design. For more information or to contribute to CFEE’s efforts, visit cranfordfund.org.
Photos Courtesy of Jenn McComb
Bove,
Inaugural St. Paddy’s parade knows how to shamrock ‘n roll
Everything was emerald on the balmy afternoon of Sunday, March 16, as Cranford celebrated its first-ever St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The downtown shopping district was awash in a sea of green as Grand Marshal Barry O’Donovan, Irish Woman of the Year Mary O’Connor and Irish Man of the Year Dave Farrell led the way. Union County Pipes and Drums, Sea-Jennings Dance School and the Ancient Order of the Hibernians were followed by the CHS Marching Band, wrestling team, cheerleaders, Cranford Woman’s Club, Cranford Jaycees, Nrecomers Club of Cranford, Cranford Elks and Cranford Historical Society, as well as local Scout troops. The parade ended strongly with the Cranford Police and Fire departments, and First Aid Squad bringing the noise and lights. Let’s hope this community-unifying event becomes an annual tradition!
Photos by David VanDeventer
Chapman finishes second, Daly fifth for Cranford wrestling in states
By JR Parachini
Sports Editor
Jordan Chapman came close again, but fell one win short of his ultimate high school goal.
In the NJSIAA Tournament 175-pound final in Atlantic City on Saturday, March 8, second-seeded Chapman of Cranford High School was defeated by top-seeded and defending champion Ryan Burton of St. Joseph Regional High School, Montvale, by the major decision score of 20-6.
For Burton, it was his second state title. He will continue wrestling at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.
Last year, Chapman lost to Delbarton School’s Alessio Perentin, 12-7, in the 165pound final. Perentin, a senior, won 165 again for his third state title. Perentin, who won at 157 two years ago as a sophomore, will continue wrestling at Cornell University.
Chapman looks forward to excelling collegiately at Rutgers University. Although he didn’t win a state championship, Chapman will go down as, perhaps, Cranford’s greatest wrestler.
Chapman won his first three New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association Tournament matches by pin and his fourth by technical fall. He finished 41-5 this year and 160-16 lifetime.
Chapman reached four Union County Tournament finals, winning his last three years. He won district titles all four years
‘Jordan ended his career setting a lot of records in the Cranford wrestling program. His 160 wins are the most and his 108 pins are as well.’
and reached four region finals, winning his last three years.
In the NJSIAA Tournament, Chapman qualified all four years, finishing third at 157 as a sophomore in 2023, second at 165 as a junior in 2024 and second at 175 as a senior in 2025.
Chapman went 35-5 as a freshman, 424 as a sophomore, 42-2 as a junior and 415 as a senior. Chapman finished third in the Beast of the East at the University of Delaware at 165 pounds a year ago and eighth at 175 this year.
His resume is embellished by the way he became a leader in the wrestling room.
“Jordan was a special kind of wrestler who brought a lot of positive attention to the program,” Cranford head coach Pat Gorman said. “He was so much fun to have coached for these four years and I wish him all the best moving on to Rutgers.”
Chapman will also go down as one of the best, if not the best, wrestlers in Union County history not to win a state championship.
“Jordan ended his career setting a lot
— Coach Pat
Gorman
of records in the Cranford wrestling program. His 160 wins are the most and his 108 pins are as well.
“He was a three-time state place-winner. Jordan was just a beast.”
Michael Daly also placed eighth in the Beast of the East this year at 113, bouncing back to place after losing his first match.
As the 12th seed at 113 in the NJSIAA Tournament, Daly joined Chapman as the only two Union County wrestlers to reach the semifinals. Although Daly lost to eventual state champion Cameron Sontz, of Delbarton, in the semifinals, Daly wrestled back to place fifth, beating fellow Union County wrestler Zachary Belverio, of Arthur L. Johnson High School, in the match to see which wrestlers would finish fifth and sixth in the state at 113.
“Mike Daly had another great season and his best one yet,” Gorman said. “He does all of the right things to continue to get better and climb higher.”
Daly was a UCT and District 10 champion and placed second in Region 3. In last year’s NJSIAA Tournament, Daly reached the quarterfinals at 106.
Next year, Daly and teammate Luke Scholz, who will both be seniors, will have the opportunity to become Cranford’s second and third four-time UCT champions.
“Earning a fifth place in the states is another milestone in Mike’s career, but it won’t be his best finish,’ Gorman said. “I see him continuing to grow and stay hungry. I’m glad he’s around for another year.”
Christian Barber, of Westfield, in 2011, his senior year at 152, remains Union County’s last state champion.
Pat Hogan, as a senior in 2006 at 171, remains Cranford’s last state champion.
Union County wrestlers who earned medals for placing at the March 6-8 NJSIAA Tournament in Atlantic City Wrestlers finishing in the Top 8 in their weight classes received medals.
• Second: Jordan Chapman, Cranford, senior, 175
• Fifth: Michael Daly, Cranford, junior, 113
• Sixth: Zachary Belverio, Arthur L. Johnson, senior, 113
Gioia was the only one of these wrestlers not to reach the quarterfinals. Gioia won three straight wrestle-back matches to qualify for the bout for seventh place.
Cranford YMCA marks first anniversary with week of celebration
The Cranford YMCA recently marked a significant milestone – its first anniversary. Members and the community came together for a week of celebrations filled with giveaways, special events, free classes and more, all in honor of the facility’s first year of strengthening the community of Cranford and its surrounding towns.
The Cranford YMCA opened its doors on Feb. 15, 2024, in a partnership between the Westfield Area YMCA and the township of Cranford.
In the past year, the facility has become a vibrant hub for health and wellness, welcoming individuals and families of all ages to participate in fitness programs, swim lessons, water exercise and special events. “The Cranford YMCA has been a great addition to the Cranford community and has brought a lot of joy to both our members and staff,” said Kimberly Koza-Baird, senior director of Aquatics and Cranford YMCA.
Anniversary week activities included demo swim classes, free stroke evaluations and fitness clinics. Members received special first-anniversary Tshirts as a token of appreciation for their support throughout the year. A cake-cutting ceremony attended by staff, board members, representatives from the township of Cranford, and members of the Cranford Chamber of Commerce
served as a moment to reflect on the Y's impact over the past year and to look forward to continuing its growth and community connection in the years to come.
As the Cranford YMCA transitions
into its second year, it remains committed to empowering individuals of all ages, promoting wellness, and building a stronger community.
The Y is the nation’s leading nonprof-
it committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Financial assistance is available for YMCA programs and memberships for those who
Photo Courtesy of Kristy Cerini
From left are Steve Robertazzi, Gina Tipton, Nick Dovidio, Mike Flynn, Lavona Patterson, Greg Hatzisavvas, Susan Morton, Terrence Curry, Kathleen Miller Prunty, Olivia London, Kimberly Koza-Baird, Kristy Cerini and Amanda Aguirre, attending the anniversary of Cranford YMCA recently.
Monday: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm
Tuesday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Wednesday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
St. Patrick’s Day Parade showcases luck of the Irish
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Above left, Members of Shea Jennings School of Irish Dance hold hands as the walk in Cranford’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Above center, the Cranford Newcomers Club holds up its banner as the members enjoy a walk through the streets of Downtown Cranford. Above right, motorcycles roar through township streets as they take part in Cranford’s inaugural St. Patrick’s Day Parade. At left, William, 6, and Madelyn, 3, are all decked out in the appropriate color of green as they enjoy the parade from alongside one of the township streets. At right, Teddy, 5, and Esme, 8, look very excited as the St. Patrick’s Day Parade passes by where they are standing. Below left, 2024 Memorial Day Grand Marshal Jay Flanagan rides in Cranford’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade looking resplendent in the back of a truck. Below left, Dale Buchheister and Zilpha, 5, sit back and relax while enjoying a perfect day for Cranford’s first St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Township Committee to have workshop on April 7
Cranford’s Township Committee will have a workshop on Monday, April 7, at 7 p.m., in Room 108 of the Cranford Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Ave., Cranford.
Cranford to have official meeting on April 8
Cranford’s Township Committee will have an official meeting on Tuesday, April 8, at 7 and 7:30 p.m., in Room 107/ Council Chambers of the Cranford Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Ave., Cranford.
Committee to have a workshop/official meeting
Cranford’s Township Committee will have a workshop on Tuesday, April 22, at 7 p.m., followed by an official meeting at 8
p.m. in the Cranford Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Ave., Cranford.
Spring Recreation programs keep us sharp
Recreation programs offered at the Community Center and Recreation Center provide opportunities to keep your mind and body active. Whether it’s a volley on the court, sketching on paper, engaging with peers in social clubs or building robots in STEM classes, the Recreation and Parks Department has it covered in its spring programming.
Registration for Spring Recreation Programs is now open. Early registration is encouraged, as spots are limited. Participants can browse program offerings at www.cranfordrecreation.org or in person at the Cranford Community Center, 220 Walnut Ave. For more information, email recreation@cranfordnj.org or call 908-709-7283.
Cranford BOE awards bids for classroom additions
Cranford Public Schools has announced that the district has awarded all bids in regard to the kindergarten classroom additions. With construction set to begin this spring, the district is on track to complete the work in time for the 2026-27 school year. For the most up-todate information about the upcoming vote, bidding and construction, visit www.cranfordschools.org/vote.
IN MEMORIAM
• ROWE – Joseph A. III, of Essex, Conn., formerly of Cranford; March 15, 2024. Business owner. Husband, brother, uncle, 67.
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.
of
more than a dozen varieties of great pizza.
Cranford girls basketball enjoys success in states
By JR Parachini Sports Editor
When the Cranford High School girls basketball team lost at home to Roselle Catholic High School, 52-42, in Union County Conference–Watchung Division play on Tuesday, Jan. 21, the Cougars fell to 4-9.
Time was slipping away on Cranford, trying to figure out its 2024-2025 season.
Somehow, the Cougars did. They went from being five games less than .500 nearing the end of January to actually having a lead in the North 2, Group 3 sectional state championship game on Friday, March 7. Not only were they winning the game entering the second quarter, but they were doing so in the gym of the team that won the section last year, beating Cranford at home in the semifinals on the way.
After stunning second-seeded Somerville High School, 52-46, on the road in the North 2, Group 3 semifinals – Somerville had nine more wins than Cranford – the Cougars had the unenviable task of going to Chatham High School for the third time in a year.
In last year’s North 2, Group 3 semifinal at Chatham, the host Cougars topped the visiting Cougars, 53-35.
On Saturday, Dec. 28, of this season in the Cougar Classic at Chatham, it was host Chatham once again defeating visiting Cranford, this time by the even more convincing score of 66-31.
Chatham won 28 games last year, en route to winning the section and then reaching the Group 3 final. The Cougars had 29 wins under their belt when they hosted Cranford again last week.
A much more inspired and confident Cranford team gave Chatham a real battle this time before ultimately falling, 41-33. Cranford led 13-5 after the first quarter and, although the visiting Cougars were shut out 10-0 in the second quarter, they still trailed by just two at intermission. Chatham’s lead was
Photo by JR Parachini
Cranford High School basketball player Bella Curanovic, at left, was a standout player for head coach Allison Skrec for four years. Curanovic scored 459 points this year to finish with 1,275.
only five points entering the fourth quarter.
Defense, playing well on defense, usually wins championships. Cranford’s solid play on defense almost led it to another big road upset victory.
Chatham improved to 30-2 and remained undefeated against public school competition.
Cranford, bouncing back in incredible fashion, producing a winning season of 15-12. After the 4-9 record on Tuesday, Jan. 21, the Cougars went on to win 11 of their final 14 contests.
Standout senior Bella Curanovic was special, as usual, against Chatham, pouring in a game-high 21 points. Curanovic also contributed three rebounds, one block and one steal.
Curanovic, one of the greatest players to ever compete at Cranford, finished with a career-high 459 points this year to conclude at 1,275.
Here’s an account of Cranford’s final win of the season, its 52-46 triumph at Somerville on Tuesday, March 4: Just seconds into the second quarter, Somerville extended its lead to a high of eight.
Cranford came back.
With less than four minutes to play in the third quarter, junior sharpshooter Kaylee Lauber drained a second consecutive three-point basket to put the host Pioneers back up by four.
Cranford came back again.
After that, no more comebacks were necessary.
Why?
Because after Lauber’s second of those two three-pointers, her last of four total, the visiting Cougars were not to be stopped.
Cranford followed with a third quarter-ending 12-0 run to take back the lead back for good at 40-32, heading into the final eight minutes. Nothing on this night was going to deter a Cranford Cougar squad that was not frazzled at all in a visiting gym against a loud crowd and against a team that had won nine more games.
Then Cranford’s best player, Curanovic, hit two, big, consecutive jumpers from the top of the key with a little more than three minutes to play to put the Cougars up by seven, after Somerville cut the deficit to three with four straight free throws.
Curanovic followed by grabbing what seemed like every rebound the rest of the way.
As great as Curanovic was, a stellar effort that included game-highs of 21 points and 16 rebounds, Cranford’s performance was anything but a one-person show. Brooke Bentrewicz poured in 15 points including three big three-pointers. Ella Grady produced two huge
threes in the third quarter, one from the top of the key and one from the right side. Lily Costello scored five points and grabbed four boards. Courtney Toy hauled in five rebounds.
It was a team effort, led by their best player, that propelled sixth-seeded Cranford to a stunning 52-46 triumph at second-seeded Somerville in the Tuesday, March 4, North 2, Group 3 girls basketball semifinal contested in Somerset County.
Somerville had a seven-game winning streak snapped and saw its season end at 23-6. Cranford won its fourth straight to improve to 15-11 and advanced to the North 2, Group 3 final for the first time since winning it in 2013.
It appeared early on for Cranford against Somerville that the home team may be on its way. The Pioneers quickly began the game with two buckets for a 40 lead and then ended the first quarter on a 5-0 run to go up 14-8. After Somerville took its biggest lead of eight at 16-8, Cranford managed to somehow keep the game a bit closer on the scoreboard.
Curanovic, who scored Cranford’s first basket after grabbing three offensive rebounds, scored again off an offensive board, was fouled and then made the free throw to pull the Cougars to within one at 21-20. Bentrewicz scored inside and then Costello on a layup to put Cranford ahead 24-21, courtesy of a second quarter-ending 7-0 run, at intermission.
“This was a game of runs,” Skrec said. “It’s something we talked about. We’ve been in these types of games before.”
The game’s biggest run, Cranford’s 12-0 surge to close the third quarter, went like this: Grady drained a three from the top of the key to pull Cranford to within one again at 32-31. Grady then followed with a three-pointer from the right side to elevate the Cougars to the
See COUGARS, Page 15
Cougars defeat Somerville 52-46 in final game
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lead for good at 34-32 with 1:45 remaining before the fourth quarter.
Curanovic followed with two free throws before the Cougars took advantage of a Somerville turnover and saw Bentrewicz score on a fastbreak. Grady then made two big free throws and suddenly Cranford was ahead by eight at 40-32 as the fourth quarter commenced.
“We found open players and we took care of the ball,” Skrec said.
Cranford even survived a full-court press Somerville went to in the fourth quarter and the Cougars were also able to take chunks of time off the clock at the start of the third and fourth quarters by passing the ball around until someone was open for a clear shot.
After Lauber scored her team’s final two points on two free throws with 11.5 seconds left to make the score 51-46, Curanovic was fouled, made one of two free throws and then came up with a block and a rebound right before the final buzzer.
“Bella had so many big rebounds for us in that fourth quarter,” Skrec said. “Everyone did their jobs. All of our play-
ers made contributions. Our girls kept their composure.”
Playing teams such as New Provi-
dence, Westfield, Roselle Catholic and Elizabeth in the Watchung Division of the Union County Conference proved
season
worthy for the Cougars, despite finishing less than .500 in the division.
“Bend, but don’t break,” Skrec said. ‘We were prepared for moments like tonight.”
The key to Cranford bouncing back from being five games less than .500 as January was nearing its conclusion?
“We just had a stronger second half of the season,” Skrec said. “It was just playing games and reps and players still learning their roles. We jelled and started playing together as a team.”
“We had to step up and keep locking in,” Curanovic said. “We feel that we played such great teams and that prepared us.”
Somerville ended the first quarter on a 5-0 run.
Cranford ended the second quarter on a 7-0 run.
Cranford ended the third quarter on a 12-0 run to take the lead for good.
North 2, Group 3 Girls Basketball Semifinal at Somerville 6-Cranford (15-11) 08 16 16 12 – 52 2-Somerville (23-6) 14 07 11 14 – 46
Photo by JR Parachini
Cranford High School basketball head coach Allison Skrec, kneeling middle, discusses strategy with her team during a timeout.
