Cranford Life - June 2025

CRANFORDLIFE UNIONNEWSDAILY.COM

5K race is sponsored

JUNE 2025

VOL. 09 NO. 04

PRIDE flag raising ceremony to be hosted On Saturday, June 7, at 12:30 p.m., in front of the municipal building, the mayor and Township Committee welcome the community to come out to the front lawn as the township raises the PRIDE flag symbolizing love, tolerance and peace and recognizing the LGBTQ+ rights movement during PRIDE month.

— See Page 4

Second novel is published Photo Courtesy of Christina Miskewitz

Display your pride with a 250 RevolutionNJ magnet — See Page 8

Volleyball team wins

— See Page 9

These special magnets were created to fundraise for local events celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary. Local artist and designer Tammanie Crawford custom designed the logo and artwork for the magnet. Show your pride in Cranford and America by purchasing a magnet and displaying it on your vehicle. To purchase a magnet, contact committee co-chairperson Loretta Smith at lorettasmith@comcast.net.

The 250 RevolutionNJ Committee is composed of Cranford volunteers who are working together to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States of America with events local to Cranford. The committee is still seeking more volunteers – reach out to Loretta if you’re interested.

In 2026, New Jersey, in the same manner as much of the United States, will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America through events, programs and ceremonies. RevolutionNJ is New Jersey’s official organization charged with planning and promoting our state’s commemoration.

This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for New Jersey to highlight its unique revolutionary significance, the diverse stories of the people who lived at that time and the lasting impact of our nation’s complex history.

Photo Courtesy of Christina Miskewitz

From left, Jeff Pistol, Cranford 250 RevolutionNJ Committee chairperson; Jane Hanson, Cranford 250 RevolutionNJ Committee member; and B.J. Candeo, Cranford Historical Society office administrator, staff their table at the Union County American Revolutionary 250th Awareness WalkKickoff Event at Nomahegan Park on Saturday, April 19.

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2 — June 2025 — Cranford Life

Cranford High School teacher publishes his first novel

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent Sean W. Bagan, a French teacher at Cranford High School, just published his first book.

“On Ravens & Riddles: From the Shelves of the Noktern” is the story of a post-apocalyptic world where most of the survivors are half-human and half-animal.

A 17-year-old, very introverted, boy – Gideon Thrush – learns to navigate himself in this world. Prophecy calls for a champion and fate has chosen him. But he’s not very strong, nor brave. How can he be a champion?

Bagan sees a lot of himself in the main character and thinks a lot of people would find Gideon Thrush relatable, as well as other characters in the book. To give authenticity to the female characters, Bagan sought assistance from his mother and female friends.

He draws inspiration from a lot of different places.

His mom read to him when he was a child and he used that experience for his main character. He also grew up watching cartoons and video games. “There were anime that led me to the creation of humanoids,” said Bagan. “Students get to learn something new and see something in them.”

Never seeing himself as an author, Bagan loved reading. And he never really thought about writing, but he’s always had stories in his head. Now that he’s an author, he feels it’s a childhood dream come true, that he never really thought about.

Bagan is a French and political science individual who taught himself how to write during the pandemic via videos and online communities. He also had a friend who edited. “I had help as I went along,” he said.

“It’s a real adventure.”

He decided to self-publish because he feels fully in

control of the story. “I enjoyed the learning process,” he said. “There have been setbacks along the way, I challenged myself to do. At the end of the day, I put it together. I feel a huge sense of accomplishment doing it on my own.”

“On Ravens & Riddles: From the Shelves of the Noktern” is the first in a trilogy. Bagan is almost finished with the second book which he plans to have out by Halloween 2025, “Just to show people I’m a brand-new author and I’m serious about getting these books out.”

His advice to aspiring authors is, “I would tell them, ‘Do it.’ For so long, I had this story in my head. Just get it down one bit at a time. Write to the end. Don’t get so bogged down in word choices. Get all of your ideas out and make it better as you go.”

An avid reader, Bagan has been pushing himself. “I challenge myself to read 60 books for 2025,” he said.

Some of the more popular writers who inspire Bagan included JK Rowling and Suzanne Collins. “I love her writing and would read anything she wrote,” he said.

Originally from upstate New York, Bagan moved from the Catskill Mountains area a decade ago. He’s now living in Roselle Park. “It’s really a beautiful area,” he said. “There’s so much to do. Everything is 10 to 15 minutes away.”

When Bagan isn’t reading, writing or teaching, he likes to be physically active and “go hiking, hang out with friends, go to dinner, go to the movies.”

He also wants his readers to know the main purpose of “On Ravens & Riddles: From the Shelves of the Noktern” is to be yourself and love yourself.

To learn more about Sean W. Bagan, visit https://www.instagram.com/sean.w.bagan/.

Photo Courtesy of Sean W. Bagan

Sean W. Bagan

Cranford Life — June 2025 — 3

Mamapalooza collects self-care items for moms in shelters

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent Every mom deserves a special Mother’s Day. First Presbyterian Church of Cranford helped moms in local shelters and service programs celebrate as the community came together to create gift bags for them.

Items in the bags included nail polish, nail clippers, nail files, spa headbands, shower steamers, shower caps, bath poufs, body lotion, Chapstick, full-size toothpaste, shampoo, full-size deodorant and full-size body wash.

In total, there were 110 gift bags.

These small touches of comfort and care truly helped mothers who are facing tough circumstances.

Laura Simone, elder and public relations/outreach at First Presbyterian Church, said the idea sprouted within the youth group. On a small scale, last year, they packed a handful of spa bags and brought them to the YWCA Women’s Shelter. “We wanted to expand on the idea,” she said. “The idea germinated within the youth group. We grew into a bigger event. We collected donations for three weeks. The community was unbelievably generous. It was fantastic.”

In addition to the YWCA, gift bags were expanded to Raphael’s Life House Inc., El Centro, Family Promise, Cranford Family Care and Osceola Presbyterian Church.

Volunteers received plain white gift bags which they could decorate with stickers, markers and crayons. The next step was filling the bags with items. Finally, Mother’s Day cards were written with inspirational messages to accompany the gift bags.

Approximately 30 people in total showed up to volunteer.

“Cranford High School National Honor Society sent a bunch of high school kids,” said Simone. “They were so into it.”

There was also a bake sale and $250 was raised for the church’s youth group so

Photo Courtesy of Laura Simone

Young volunteers making gift bags for moms facing tough circumstances. First Presbyterian Church of Cranford helped moms in local shelters and service programs celebrate as the community came together to create gift bags for them. they could come up with more ideas, explained Simone.

Though there were only 30 volunteers, Simone felt it was an uplifting event, showing care and compassion.

At the end of the event, everyone stood in a circle and said a prayer for all the moms who would be receiving the gift bags. Simone believes they will have

the event again next year.

“Churches are meant to care for people and show caring,” she said. “But we want to invite other people in. The church is not a private club. Even if you’re not a church person, you can come. I don’t think anyone minded being a part of the prayer.”

Continuing, she said, “Mamapalooza was a joyful afternoon of decorating and

packaging self-care bags to remind moms in local shelters and service programs that they are seen, supported and loved.

Whether you’re great with crafts or just great at encouragement, every hand helps to show someone they matter.”

Visit First Presbyterian Church of Cranford at https://firstprescranford. org/.

BOE unanimously approves plan to fund full-day kindergarten operations On Monday, April 28, the Cranford Public Schools Board of Education unanimously approved a plan to participate in New Jersey’s new Tax Levy Incentive Aid program. Local and state funds secured through this program will be used to fund staffing, operational costs and related services for the district’s full-day kindergarten.

The board’s action means that the district will no longer need to hold a budget vote that was planned for November to secure funds for full-day kindergarten.

Instead, the district will benefit from about $63,000 in state aid, as well as $1.3 million in local funds, to ensure the district starts tuition-free, full-day kindergarten by the 2026-27 school year at its four elementary schools.

"The Tax Levy Incentive Aid program is new this year and provides a better option for Cranford residents to fund full-day, tuition-free kindergarten at a reduced cost to what was originally anticipated,” said business administrator Robert Carfagno. “The state aid factor is huge.

When looking into whether Cranford was eligible, this was the only way to bring state aid dollars back to invest in Cranford’s kindergarten program.”

Tax Levy Incentive Aid is a new form of aid offered by

entire community,” said Board President Kurt Petschow.

After voters approved the January 2024 bond refer‘The Cranford community endum, CPS secured lower rates for bonds than previvalues education and has ously projected, meaning residents will pay less in taxes the projects approved by the community. Interest shown strong support for for rates decreased from the original estimated annual tax tuition-free, full-day impact of $410 for the average assessed home – $186,000 – to $383.05. kindergarten.’

With the investment earnings applied from the bond

— Superintendent Scott Rubin

the New Jersey Department of Education, which aims to help districts that are below adequacy and local fair share, as defined by the NJDOE. This opportunity will allow CPS to raise the 2025-26 general tax levy by $1,257,295. By doing so, the district qualifies for $62,865 in state aid that would not have been available through other means.

Additionally, not going out for a vote will save the district tens of thousands of dollars in election related costs.

“The Cranford Board of Education and district administration take fiscal responsibility very seriously, aiming to make decisions that benefit students, as well as the

proceeds, the district was also able to realize additional savings.

By proceeding with the Tax Levy Incentive Aid program, residents will see continued cost savings.

“The Cranford community values education and has shown strong support for tuition-free, full-day kindergarten through the bond referendum and community meetings,” said Superintendent Scott Rubin. “The Tax Levy Incentive Aid program gives us a fiscally responsible way to fund kindergarten using local and state tax dollars. We look forward to using these funds to ensure all Cranford children benefit from the educational foundation that full-day kindergarten offers.”

4 — June 2025 — Cranford Life

Centennial Village Group to host CVG Velocity 5K Race Lace up your sneakers and get ready for the 14th annual CVG Velocity 5K Race.

The race is Sunday, June 1, starting at 9 a.m. The course begins at Lincoln School, 132 Thomas St., Cranford.

Join us for a family-friendly race with a flat scenic route through Centennial Village and Mohawk Park. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, this event promises fun for all ages.

Pre-register at www.runsignup.com – The CVG Velocity 5K – by Saturday, May 17, to secure your tech T-shirt. Remember, registration is online only, including on race day. Pre-registration price is:

adults, $30; youth, 18 and younger, $25.

Race-day registration price is: adults, $35; youth, 18 and younger, $30.

For more information, email CVGVelocity@gmail.com.

The Centennial Village Group Committee is dedicated to the revitalization and enhancement of the Centennial Avenue corridor.

The CVG Velocity 5K is a fundraiser to improve the area from an aesthetic and community perspective, further integrating the area’s role as a vital aspect of Cranford’s shopping, dining and neighborhood offerings.

SCHOOL IS OUT:

Watch for Kids!

The end of the school year means more kids are out and about, especially in neighborhoods.

Parents and caregivers play an essential role in keeping kids safe while enjoying summer activities.

Safe driving around kids • When driving, pay attention and scan the entire area around you.

• Look for kids playing near the street and slow down. Children are often unpredictable and unaware of danger around them.

• Slow down around children and other pedestrians.

• Watch for people about to step off the curb at crosswalks.

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Photos Courtesy of Christina Miskewitz

Photos of the annual CVG Velocity 5K Race were taken in 2023.

CRANFORDLIFE LOCAL, POSITIVE, COMMUNITY NEWS Visit our Website for more news and photos.

UnionNewsDaily.com PUBLISHED BY: Worrall Media 1291 Stuyvesant Avenue Union NJ 07083 908-686-7700 Editorial@TheLocalSource.com

Publisher: David Worrall Managing Editor: David Jablonski Advertising Manager: Joseph Farina

All contents ©2025 Worrall Community Newspapers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of this publication and any republication or broadcast without written permission is prohibited.

Cranford Life — June 2025 — 5

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6 — June 2025 — Cranford Life

Library hosts panel discussion for local fiction authors

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent Janelle Schiecke, Ben Chewey and Patrick O’Dowd all have a connection to Cranford. They are also fiction authors.

They recently participated in an authors’ panel discussion at the Cranford Public Library. The panel was hosted by Marissa Lieberman, head of Reference Services at the library.

Schiecke writes paranormal stories.

She has authored “Ghost Room,” “Death Cult” and “The Clatter Man.” Chewey has a passion for history and storytelling. He has authored “Bloodoath of the Patriots” and “American Tango.”

O’Dowd has had short stories published by various publications. “A Campus on Fire” is his debut novel.

Currently living in Wayne, O’Dowd was born in Cranford. “I have fond Cranford Library memories as a kid.”

Chewey, who was born in Brooklyn and raised in Cranford, agreed that the library had a positive impact on him.

Schiecke was born in Ohio and moved to Cranford 20 years ago.

“How did you get started?” Lieberman asked the panel.

“As a kid, I always wanted to be a writer. I didn’t write until well into my 20s,” said O’Dowd. “I met someone and told her I was a writer. I hadn’t written anything.”

The audience laughed and O’Dowd continued. “I wrote a book. It was a real mess,” he said.

But he advised that practicing a craft is very valuable. He sent his books to a lot of publishing agents. It was picked up

by Regal House Publishing.

Schiecke also started writing when she was in her 20s. “Ghost Room” was based on a dream she had. “You get a spark, you start writing,” she said. “You have to enjoy it.” She self-published it

Photo by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

From left are authors Ben Chewey, Janelle Schiecke and Patrick O’Dowd, holding some of the fiction novels they have written, at a recent authors’ panel at the Cranford Public Library. All three authors either have lived or still live in Cranford. because she said it’s “do-able.”

Chewey said he always liked reading and his ideas come from different places.

Lieberman asked where they got their inspiration.

“My partner most inspires me,” said O’Dowd, then adding, “Hemmingway, Emma Cline… I love a story that is thrilling and dives into human consciousness. Inspiration comes from everywhere.”

Schiecke said she was inspired by Stephen King and Anne Rice.

Chewey is inspired by Stephen King, J.R. Tolkien and Stan Lee, who is widely recognized for his contributions to Mar-

vel Comics. He’s also inspired by real life and people he meets.

Lieberman asked the authors for advice for someone who wants to write.

O’Dowd simply said his advice was to write. “It sounds obvious, but in life, a lot of things got in the way,” he said.

“I feel it’s good to push yourself out of your comfort zone,” said Schiecke.

“Write what you love. Write what you know. Put it on paper and see where it goes. Take it one step at a time.”

“If you want to get published, check what is popular at the time,” said Chewey.

After the panel discussion, the audi-

ence offered their questions. One member was curious if writing was a full-time profession for the authors.

“That would be wonderful,” said O’Dowd. “I have a job and write around my job.”

“Not quite full time yet,” said Chewey.

Schiecke writes full time and loves it.

She said, “‘Death Cult’ is selling very well. I’m very active on social media. It really is a hustle.”

The authors can all be found on most social media platforms.

To learn more about Cranford Public Library, visit: https://www.cranfordlibrary.org/.

Downtown Cranford Pride Planting will be happening On Thursday, June 5, from 7 to 8 p.m., with a rain date of June 12, Green Thumb Garden Club will once again be doing a Pride Planting downtown. If you would like to volunteer to help with the planting, email DMC@cranfordnj.org. Volunteers are responsible for bringing their own hand trowel. This planting is made possible in part by a 2025 HEART – History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands – GRANT from the Union County Board of Commissioners.

Photo Courtesy of Christina Miskewitz

Cranford Life — June 2025 — 7

CRANFORD NEWS with a rain date of June 12, Green Thumb have an official meeting on Tuesday, June Garden Club will once again be doing a 24, at 7 and 7:30 p.m., in Room Pride Planting downtown.

107/Council Chambers of the Cranford Lace up your sneakers and get ready If you would like to volunteer to help Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Ave., for the 14th Annual CVG Velocity 5K race. with the planting, email DMC@cranford- Cranford.

The race is Sunday, June 1, starting at 9 nj.org. Volunteers are responsible for a.m. The course begins at Lincoln School, bringing their own hand trowel. This Garden Tour fundraiser to 132 Thomas St., Cranford. planting is made possible in part by a Join us for a family-friendly race with a 2025 HEART – History, Education, Arts be kicked off on June 28 flat scenic route through Centennial VilThe Cranford Historical Society invites Reaching Thousands – GRANT from the lage and Mohawk Park. Whether you’re a you to a Garden Tour on Saturday, June Union County Board of Commissioners. seasoned runner or just starting out, this 28, from 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Five gardens event promises fun for all ages. in Cranford will be featured, including PRIDE Flag Raising Pre-register at www.runsignup.com – their own at the Crane-Phillips House, Ceremony hosted The CVG Velocity 5K – by Saturday, May PRIDE Yoga offered which will also serve as the Hospitality On Saturday, June 7, at 12:30 p.m., in House. Proceeds will benefit the interior 17, to secure your tech T-shirt. RememHot Yoga Revolution will be holding its ber, registration is online only, including annual PRIDE class again this year, a 60- front of the municipal building, the mayor renovation of the Hanson House, which on race day. Pre-registration price is: minute outdoor powerful vinyasa flow, and Township Committee welcome the serves as a meeting and event space for adults, $30; youth, 18 and younger, $25. taught by Cheryl. PRIDE Yoga will take community to come out to the front lawn Cranford based civic organizations.

Race-day registration price is: adults, place on Wednesday, June 4, from 6 to 7 as the township raises the PRIDE flag Tickets can be purchased for $45 per $35; youth, 18 and younger, $30. p.m. in Lot No. 1, on the corner of North symbolizing love, tolerance and peace and person, check payable to the Cranford recognizing the LGBTQ+ rights move- Historical Society. Flyers are at the CranFor more information, email CVGVe- Union and Springfield avenues. locity@gmail.com. ford Library, the Cranford Community This class is donation based, with 100 ment during PRIDE month.

The Centennial Village Group Commit- percent of proceeds going to The Trevor Center and Dreyer Farms and on the socitee is dedicated to the revitalization and Project, an organization that provides Committee to have a ety’s website and social media pages. Pick enhancement of the Centennial Avenue counseling and support to young LGBTQ up a program booklet beginning at 9:30 combined workshop, corridor. The CVG Velocity 5K is a individuals. a.m. at the Crane-Phillips House Musefundraiser to improve the area from an Those who are attending are encour- official meeting um, 124 North Union Ave, Cranford.

Cranford’s Township Committee will Parking is available in the adjacent aesthetic and community perspective, fur- aged to wear their Pride colors, pre-registher integrating the area’s role as a vital ter for the class, and bring their own yoga have a workshop on Tuesday, June 9, at 7 municipal lot. aspect of Cranford’s shopping, dining and mat. Register at https://www.hotyogarevo- p.m., followed by an official meeting at 8 Tickets are non-refundable and the p.m. in the Cranford Municipal Building, event is rain or shine. For more informaneighborhood offerings. lution.com/cranford.

8 Springfield Ave., Cranford. tion, call the society’s office at 908-276Downtown Cranford Pride 0082, email cranfordhistoricalsociety@ Touch-a-Truck is coming Touch-a-Truck will be offered on Sun- Planting happening Cranford to have meeting verizon.net or visit the website at On Thursday, June 5, from 7 to 8 p.m., day, June 1, from 10 a.m. to noon, at Cranford’s Township Committee will www.cranfordhistoricalsociety.com.

Centennial Village Group CVG Velocity 5K Race

Union College of Union County, NJ, 1033 Springfield Ave., Cranford, in Parking Lot 2. There is parking available in Lot 1.

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8 — June 2025 — Cranford Life

Cranford author self-publishes his second novel

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent Ben Chewey, of Cranford, recently selfpublished his second book, “Bloodoath of the Patriots.” The fiction novel is about a woman who just got back from Afghanistan, fighting terrorists. On her return, she discovers her older brother is unstable – she got the glory he thought he deserved.

As an alumna of Fairleigh Dickinson University, Chewey pursued a history major, an academic journey that eventually led him to Kean University. There, he earned a master’s degree in holocaust and genocide studies. He’s currently enrolled at Rutgers University, pursuing a master’s degree in library science.

Growing up, Chewey said he felt different from a lot of people at school because they were more into sports. “I was more of an introvert,” said Chewey.

While studying at Rutgers, Chewey works as a substitute teacher and also contributes to local television station TV35. “I help them interview and talk to people at local events,” he said.

Prior to “Bloodoath of the Patriots,” Chewey penned “American Tango,” which he calls “a romance inspired by ‘American Graffiti’ and Garden State.”

He said, “It’s about two people trying to find their way in life. They’re not where they want to be.”

“Bloodoath of the Patriots” is more

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dramatic. Chewey said he likes to plan out the story before he writes it.

“I know some people can improvise, but I like to have an idea,” he said. “I just write a little bit each day. I used to do a thousand words per day, if I’m not distracted. The editing part is more difficult for me.”

While studying at Fairleigh Dickinson, Chewey had a writing minor, giving him some experience. He also talked to other people who wrote. “That helps,” he said.

He’s inspired by other authors– classic writers such as Mark Twain and Frank Herbert.

Some of the stories he writes are inspired by personal events, but were changed into a story. Regarding “Bloodoath of the Patriots,” he said, “I wasn’t a soldier, but I had a family member … how they changed to be a person you didn’t recognize. It’s upsetting. Part of what inspired ‘Patriots,’ other people weren’t affected by the family divide.”

For those who aspire to write books, Chewey advises them to prepare for rejection and to plan things out. “If you can’t edit, have a good editor,” he said.

When Chewey isn’t writing, he’s preparing for his grad student papers or getting inspiration by reading books and watching movies and shows. He has a few book ideas planned.

To learn more about Ben Chewey, visit: https://www.bencheweyauthorhub.com/.

Photo Courtesy of Ben Chewey

Ben Chewey, of Cranford, recently self-published his second book, ‘Bloodoath of the Patriots.’ As an alumna of Fairleigh Dickinson University, Chewey pursued a history major, an academic journey that eventually led him to Kean University. There, he earned a master’s degree in holocaust and genocide studies. He’s currently enrolled at Rutgers University, pursuing a master’s degree in library science.

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Cranford Life — June 2025 — 9

UCNJ’S men’s volleyball team wins 2025 Region XIX Tournament The UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ’s men’s volleyball team won the NJCAA Region XIX Championship and will advance to the NJCAA National Invitational. This marks the first championship win since the program began at UCNJ in 2023.

The men’s volleyball team dominated the tournament, defeating Northampton Community College, 3-1, to claim the Region XIX title. The all-tournament MVP was Middle Blocker Javon Scott. Also recognized at the game were Sebastian Arias, Jaden Guzman and Daniel Silva, who were named to the all-tournament team.

Head coach Kevan Pidgeon-Hammock was named NJCAA Coach of the Year.

With his leadership, the team finished their season with an overall record of 22 wins and 6 losses. They also clinched the Garden State Athletic Conference Championship, going 10-0 in conference matchups. This secured the men’s invitation to compete in the 2025 NJCAA Men’s Volleyball Invitational, taking place at Finger Lakes Community College.

“On behalf of the UCNJ community, I want to congratulate the men’s volleyball team and coach Pidgeon-Hammock on their well-earned victory. In just two years since the program’s inception, our studentathletes have dedicated their time and energy to ensuring success. We wish them the best at the national tournament and look forward to many successful seasons to come” said UCNJ President Margaret M. McMenamin.

Photo Courtesy of Margaret Ortuso

The UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ’s men’s volleyball team won the NJCAA Region XIX Championship and will advance to the NJCAA National Invitational. This marks the first championship win since the program began at UCNJ in 2023.

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10 — June 2025 — Cranford Life

Crane-Philips House Museum hosts master gardener presentation

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent Crane-Philips House Museum recently hosted a gardening presentation and museum tour.

Caren White, a master gardener with Middlesex County, is a popular speaker on herbs at garden clubs, libraries and other groups around the state. She gave a presentation on starting an herb garden and answered questions.

Beginning, she explained the difference between an herb and a spice. Herbs use leaves or flowers. A spice uses any other part of the plant. With dill, both leaves and seeds are used.

“When buying, bear in mind how tall they will be when full-grown,” she said, explaining that rosemary can grow between 4 to 6 feet.

White gave tips on laying out the garden, such as making the bed as wide as you can comfortably reach to weed, prune and harvest your herbs.

Growing your own herbs is nutritionally better, White explained. She also pointed out that herbs are deer resistant, as deer do not like strongly scented plants, though they may eat echinacea. “Basil, thyme, sage, lavender; they don’t like the smell,” said White. “But if there is nothing else to eat, they will eat.”

White recommends replacing sage every three to four years. And that if you over-water lavender, it will die.

Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

Above left, master gardener Caren White makes a presentation on starting an herb garden and answers questions at a recent gardening presentation and museum tour at Crane-Philips House Museum. Above right, Scott Fazzini, Cranford Historical Society program chairperson, hosts a tour at the Crane-Philips House Museum recently.

“Think of an herb garden as a vegetable garden,” she said. “Most herbs want full sun, all-day sun. Water according to plants’ needs. Basil needs a lot of water.

Others want to be dry.”

Another handy tip White offered was keeping flavored mint plants in separate containers.

She also said, “Do not over-fertilize.

The best fertilizer is compost.”

When deciding what to plant in your herb garden, White advises thinking about what you’re going to use your herbs for. “Go through (your) favorite recipes,” she said. “Look at (the) herbs in favorite teas. Find out how big plants are going to get. Look at (the) space allocated. Is it big enough for all plants?”

White recommends growing herbs in hanging baskets for those with knee, hip or back problems.

After White’s presentation, attendees were invited on a tour of the museum.

Scott Fazzini, Cranford Historical Society program chairperson, and Maureen Wakeman, recording secretary, gave the tours, illustrating what life was like in the 1870s. Items included a school desk with an inkwell, school notebooks, Jello molds, a sleigh, an iron, a rug beater, a bathtub, a dollhouse and a children’s desk – to name a few.

Barbara Weinstock, of Cranford, said she loved the gardening program and seeing all the items from the past.

Refreshments were served, including sugar cookies, savory shortbread cookies with olives and rosemary, and cheddar and dill scones.

This event was presented by Cranford Historical Society. To learn more about Cranford Historical Society, visit: https://cranfordhistoricalsociety.org/.

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Cranford Life — June 2025 — 11

‘Woodcock Talk and Walk’ hosted at Lenape Park

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent The American woodcock is a plump, camouflaged, adorable shorebird.

The species also known as the timberdoodle, Labrador twister, night partridge, mudbat or bog sucker, has several distinct features. It has a rotund, orange-fluff belly, long bill and short legs. It’s also recognized for its preference for damp, dense woodlands.

It can be found in the eastern half of North America, including New Jersey.

Recently, experienced nature enthusiast Peter Axelrod gave a “Woodcock Talk and Walk” at Lenape Park in Cranford. He gave a PowerPoint presentation, followed by a guided outdoor experience exploring the lifestyle and behaviors of the woodcock. Twenty-one people signed up for the free event.

“They’re silent, except when they do the mating call,” said Axelrod.

He further explained that they are a shorebird, they live in the forest and are related to the sandpiper. They have a cryptic coloration, the color of leaves and large prominent eyes. And they are very plump. Their beak is 10 to 12 inches long.

“It is one strange bird,” said Axelrod. “It can be confused with Wilson’s snipe, also an average shore bird who adapted to living in the forest.”

The woodcock nest is a small shallow depression in the ground surrounded by leaves. “Males do not participate in nest building or rearing the young,” said Axelrod.

For food, woodcocks mostly eat earth worms.

“They are known to eat their weight in earth worms every day,” said Axelrod.

Downed woodcocks can be found in Newark and

New York City, where they crash into buildings. They are nocturnal, active at night. Shakespeare mentions 64 bird species in his writings, with 10 references to woodcocks.

When a male woodcock is ready to mate, their call is a distinctive, loud “Peent!” The sound is often heard in the spring at dusk or dawn.

After the presentation, Axelrod had the audience stand up and do the Woodcock dance, and the audience bopped around to “Tequila,” originally recorded in 1958 by The Champs.

The group then went outdoors to find woodcocks.

“They fly widely, spread in a group, but not a flock,” said Axelrod. “They are prey for any hawk, owl, fox, weasel or coyote.”

There were Canadian geese and deer outside, as well as robins. Axelrod told the group about the Merlin app, which is helpful for all levels of birdwatchers.

He said, “The best way to learn about birds is to go out with birders. They will take you ‘under their wing’ and teach you. Birding can be done anywhere, anytime.”

Woodcocks did come out and you could hear their mating call “Peent!”

Axelrod has studied wildlife biology and natural history interpretation. His experience includes volunteering in avian population studies, wild bird rehabilitation, habitat restoration and wildlife education.

Additionally, he has led multiple birding ventures throughout New Jersey, collaborating with organizations such as the New Jersey Audubon, Friends of Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and The Raptor Trust.

For more information about upcoming activities and programs in Union County Parks, visit: https://ucnj.org/parks-recreation/.

Photo by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

From left are Robert Berns, environmental specialist; Pete Axelrod, experienced nature enthusiast and speaker; and Dan Berniere, director of division of environmental services, ready to be out on a ‘Woodcock Talk and Walk’ at Lenape Park in Cranford.

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12 — June 2025 — Cranford Life

Cranford playgrounds offers outdoor activity for children to age 13 The Summer Playgrounds program offers children a variety of fun and interesting things to do during the summer school vacation. Summer Playgrounds is a place for children to unplug and play with other children in a safe and welcoming environment where they can choose one of several activities including arts and crafts, sports, tournaments, games and much more, or just chill out doing what makes them feel happy.

“The ability to offer flexible options for summer activities to families is one of the many prides and joys of Cranford. Our Recreation and Parks Department is proud to offer programs such as this to our residents,” said Deputy Mayor and Commissioner of Recreation and Parks Paul A. Gallo.

“What I like best about the playground program is that it’s designed to be unstructured. The kids can come and organize a game of kickball, capture the flag, wiffleball; you name it. Whatever they want to do that day. If they want to do arts and crafts, great. If not, they can go on the playground, play basketball or sit and socialize. We put it in the hands of the kids to dictate what they want to do,” said Steve Robertazzi, director of Cranford Recreation and Parks Department.

Summer Playgrounds is open to children who have completed kindergarten to age 13. The program runs Monday, June 23, through Friday, Aug. 8, on Monday

Photos Courtesy of Christina Miskewitz

through Wednesday, from 9 to 11:45 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m., and Thursday and Friday, from 9 a.m. to noon.

This year, the playground sites are Lincoln Park, Mohawk Park, Orange Avenue School and Adams Park. While, historically, Brookside Place School has been one of the locations for summer playgrounds,

due to construction happening at the school this summer, Adams Park is offered as this summer’s fourth location offering a playground, basketball courts and open fields. The Recreation and Parks Departments fully intends to bring back Summer Playgrounds at Brookside once construction is completed.

In the event of inclement weather, Playgrounds are moved indoors at the Cranford Community Center, 220 Walnut Ave. The program fee is $150 per child for 7 weeks or $75 per week. Register online at Cranford Recreation Community Pass. Learn more at www.cranfordrecreation.org or call 908709-7283.

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Cranford Life — June 2025 — 13

The Cranford Environmental Commission and the Green Thumb Garden Club proudly announce the third annual Cranford Canopy Project.

The goal is to plant at least 100 trees annually to beautify our town, reduce stormwater runoff and ensure that trees thrive in Cranford today and in the future.

One hundred and eighty trees were distributed in 2024 and the project is now kicking off for 2025.

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The purpose of this survey is to gauge interest so that we can reserve trees from the nursery.

Your answers on this survey are not a final commitment to purchasing trees.

The township will do our best to fill all the requests, while supplies last.

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IN MEMORIAM

• CASALE – Frederick J. Jr., of California, formerly of Cranford and Oregon; May 4. Retired from the sheet metal industry. Brother, uncle, granduncle, 75.

• MARTINELLI – Frank J., of Cranford, formerly of Glen Ridge; April 23. Army veteran. Widower, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, cousin, 91.

• SPITZ – Madeline, of Norwell, Mass, formerly of the Bronx, N.Y., and Cranford; May 14. Accomplished pianist. Widow, mother, sister, great-grandmother, 91.

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.

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14 — June 2025 — Cranford Life

Cranford pools welcome community to register membership

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent More than 50 families were lined up to register for a pool membership.

Recently in the Centennial Avenue Pool parking lot, a pool registration event took place with food trucks and a DJ. Food trucks included Urban Dogs, MexiBoys and Its Delicious Ice Cream. There were crafts for children and games to keep them occupied while their parents stood in line. There were also membership giveaways.

Lisa Williams, of Friends of Cranford Pools, said, “It’s really a great turn out.”

Rachida Arteaga, head of marketing, agreed. She was very excited about the attendance. She said, “We have good momentum.”

Joe Friedman was with his daughter, Claire, 3. He said, “Going to the pool is a nice way to spend the day in the summer.

It’s very family friendly.”

Camille St. Leger was with her son, Cruz, 3. She said, “It’s the perfect summer day (being at the pool) when you have kids.”

Diana Hynes-Merrill said her son, Noah, 3, loves the Splash Pad at the Orange Avenue pool. “He loves the pool, the park,” she said. “It’s a half mile from my house.”

Michael Bell was there with his three girls. “How convenient; the pool is three blocks away from where I live. I’m grateful they chose not to close the pool.” He especially likes that there are three separate pools – not combined – for various age groups.

Bell moved to Cranford in 2020. “It’s a small town,” he said. “You can walk downtown easily. We live within walking distance from the school.”

Tashana Martin lives in Roselle and does most of her social outings in Cranford. She said that when you have babies, it’s hard to get to the beach by yourself.

Her daughter, Kayla, is just 7 months old.

Martin said, “I remember coming to the See COMMUNITY, Page 15

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

Above left, Lisa Willams, of Friends of Cranford Pools, and Matt Williams stand with their children, Savannah, 10, and Bethany, 9, at the recent pool membership registration in the Centennial Avenue Pool parking lot. Above center, Saafia, 10, stands with her mother, Rachida Arteaga, head of marketing, at the recent pool membership registration in the Centennial Avenue Pool parking lot. Above right, Joe Friedman poses next to his daughter, Claire, 3, at the pool membership registration. Below left, Cruz, 3, takes part in the pool registration event, which had crafts for children and games to keep them occupied while their parents stood in line. Below center, Diana HynesMerrill; Noah, 3; and Brian Merrill, enjoy some of the yummy treats offered by food trucks at the pool registration event. Below right, Michael Bell holds his daughters; Cecelia, 3; and Georgia, 5. He said he loved having the pool just three blocks away from where they live.

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Cranford Life — June 2025 — 15

Community comes together for pool membership registration (Continued from Page 14) pool as a child, growing up in Union.”

Darcy Reardon, of Cranford, said, “I love Centennial Pool. It’s so great for the kids. It’s never too crowded. We order pizza during summer nights with the kids.

Our son learned to swim in this pool.”

Rachel Chester, of Cranford, said, “It’s safe for kids.”

Celeste Tsiolas has been coming to the Centennial Pool since she was her son’s age. “It’s multi-generational,” she said. “I learned to swim here. It’s something to do in the summer.”

Michael Tsiolas said, “It’s a great community.”

To learn more about the Cranford Township Recreation, visit: https://www.cranfordrecreation.org/.

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

Above left, Matthew Martin, 7-month old Kayla and Tashana Martin take part in the pool membership registration. Tashana Martin lives in Roselle and does most of her social outings in Cranford. Above center, Darcy Reardon; Matt, 5; Judah, 2; and Rachel Chester, all of Cranford, enjoy some of the wonderful smacks at the recent pool registration event in the Centennial Avenue Pool parking lot. Above right, Michael Tsiolas, Rowan, 2, and Celeste Tsiolas enjoy the recent pool registration event. Celeste Tsiolas said she has been coming to the Centennial Pool since she was her son’s age.

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