Cranford Life - October 2025 by WORRALL MEDIA

Reverend shares powerful life lessons from her new book

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent

The Rev. Liz Alexander was serving as a pastor of a church in Brooklyn, N.Y., founded by men and women who had served jail time. At the same time, her daughter, Dawn, found herself locked up in solitary confinement in a California jail.

In Alexander’s new book, “Searching for Dawn: A Journey from Chaos to Recovery,” she shares powerful life lessons. It’s a collection of deeply moving letters written between mother and daughter during a season of crisis, growth and grace.

Alexander recently gave a sermon as guest speaker at First Presbyterian Church of Cranford. She’s a former interim associate pastor at the church, serving from January 2014 to 2017.

“Our story is unique, yet for so many families today,” she said, “more and more Americans with mental health concerns are in these prisons.”

Alexander explained that two in five incarcerated have a history of mental illness. She said, “The United Nations considers isolation for over 15 consecutive days is torture. My daughter was in isolation over six months.”

Quoting Hebrews 13:3, Alexander said, “Continue to remember those in prison, as though you were in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, as though you yourselves were suffering bodily.”

Continuing she said, “Instructions from Jesus; these are important practices we sometimes forget. We live in a world of suffering. There is chaos and pain. Life is difficult. When we experience a deep loss or adversity, we want to move on. When we share our struggles, we can inspire others and it brings strength.”

In reliving the trauma, it took Alexander and her daughter, Dawn, more than 10 years to write the book. At times, Dawn had to stop writing. But she was also compelled to move on. “Sharing her story would not only heal us, but others,” said Alexander. “We made people more aware of criminal justice. As difficult as it was, we could shed some light, give people a look at what it’s like in jail and the mistreatment that’s common. The book is a testimony of our faith and our love. I have witnessed the effect of incarceration that focuses on revenge instead of restoration.”

Alexander explained that treatment for mental illness is limited for a person who is incarcerated. And while help such as anger management or getting a General Education Diploma is available to some, it’s not available to everyone. “Most incarcerated aren’t prepared to face challenges when they come home,” Alexander said.

Going back to Hebrews 13:3, Alexander again reminds the congregation to remember those in prison as if you were together with them. “Identify with someone who is struggling,” she said. “Faith, family and friends, and the power of the supportive community – that’s what gets us through the tough stuff.”

Dawn often found support from women in cells right beside her. “They tried to reach out to each other,” said Alexander. “Even in isolation, people reached out to each other. They found ways to communicate with each other.”

Just showing we care by offering a prayer or a hug can make all the difference, Alexander said. “The promise that we are each God’s beloved child,” she said. “I went into prisons, told big guys, tough guys, ‘God loves you.’ Tears!”

In closing, she encouraged the congregation to keep trying and not giving up. “We make a difference,” Alexander said. “It brings us closer as one big family.”

“Searching for Dawn: A Journey from Chaos to Recovery” is available on Amazon.

To learn more about First Presbyterian Church of Cranford, visit: https://firstprescranford.org/.

Photo by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

The Rev. Liz Alexander stands in front of the pulpit where she would be speaking at First Presbyterian Church of Cranford.

Church celebrates new siding with ribbon cutting

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent

An exterior renovation of top quality western red cedar shingles brought new life to First Presbyterian Church of Cranford. The new siding was recently celebrated with a ribbon cutting. Before the official cutting, Mayor Dr. Terrance Curran spoke to the congregation inside the church due to the rainy weather.

“I am truly honored to stand before you today as we celebrate a pivotal moment in the church’s life – the completion of a transformative upgrade that seamlessly blends 175 years of history with a promising future,” said Curran.

Continuing, he said, “Cranford is a fantastic place to live because of institutions like this one. But more importantly, the people in our community. For generations, the First Presbyterian Church has embodied the spirit of compassion and service. I see a community where the majority shows compassion over conflict.”

After the Rev. Jin Bae closed in prayer, the congregation went outside –in the rain – for the ribbon cutting. About 75 people gathered, some wearing rain gear, others holding umbrellas and others just getting wet as they were so excited about the ribbon cutting, the rain didn’t bother them.

Carol Thomlinson, of Cranford, has been a member of the church for 59 years.

TimberRidge Construction LLC in Cranford was recommended to the church by Connolly and Hickey Historical Architects. Laura Simone, director of family engagement and communications at First Presbyterian Church of Cranford, said, “We couldn’t be more pleased with their work. They worked with us to incorporate some decorative features from the original 1893 exterior, which we felt was important to bring back. They installed new copper flashing around the windows and wrapped the building in a weather shield, which is under the cedar, to keep wind and rain out. The craftsmanship was top-notch.”

This was the second refurbishment since 1893. The siding was last done in the late 1960s.

“It’s marvelous,” she said, in regard to the new siding.

Eunice Amarabe, of Hillside, said, “It’s lovely. Enticing!” She has been coming to the First Presbyterian Church for a year or two.

Geoffrey Carlson, of Staten Island, New York, has been coming to the church for the past 15 years. “We love the church,” he said. “They did a wonderful job (with the new siding).”

The project took about six months, from July to October 2024 and from April to May 2025. “There was a break over the winter months when it was too cold to work,” said Simone. “Part of the process was to steam the shingles to make them flexible to bend around the columns. which wouldn’t have been feasible in the winter. The shingles are topquality western red cedar. They do not need to be treated and will weather to tones of silver and grey. They should last 40 to 50 years.”

To learn more about the First Presbyterian Church of Cranford, visit: https://firstprescranford.org/.

Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

Above left, Mayor Dr. Terrance Curran addresses the congregation in celebration of this pivotal moment at First Presbyterian Church of Cranford: specifically, completing the process of getting new siding that began last year. Above right, the Rev. Jin Bae closes with a prayer, before the congregation joins him outside for the ribbon cutting.

At left, Janissa Rosado, her 2-year-old son Ian and Detective Corey Loforte stand beside Loforte’s police motorcycle at the recent annual Ice Pops with Cops/Cool Down with the Fire Department event at Hillside Avenue School. Above left, Eleanor, 4, and Everett, 7, enjoy free ice pops at the community event. Everett’s favorite part was getting sprayed with the hose. Above right, Brayden, 4, and Nicholas, 4, wear their own police caps at the annual event.

Children cool down with Police, Fire departments

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent

Cranford’s first responders met with the community at Hillside Avenue School recently. At the annual Ice Pops with Cops/Cool Down with the Fire Department event, Cranford police officers handed out free ice pops to all children. The Cranford Fire Department helped everyone cool down with a refreshing spray from the fire hose. It was a wonderful opportunity for children to meet the hometown heroes of Cranford.

The free event also allowed children to pose with policemen in front of their motorcycles and see a firetruck up close. There were information tables and plenty of free items, such as tattoos, pens, colored pencils, coloring books, rubber bracelets, buttons and magnets.

Cranford Fire Department Battalion Chief Matt Lubin said, “It’s always a pleasure to partner with the police department. I look forward to the new school year and meeting with the youngest residents and

See CHILDREN, Page 10

Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

Cranford is one of New Jersey’s notable film locations

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent

“Happy Gilmore 2” was filmed in 31 municipalities and nine counties across the state. Adam Sandler’s production company, Happy Madison Productions, chose to film in New Jersey again. In recent weeks, the teen musical, “Don’t Say Good Luck,” has been filmed in Livingston, Ridgewood and Cranford.

That’s not the only movie that’s been filmed in Cranford. In fact, Cranford has been quite the hot spot for filming recently. Steven Soderbergh’s film, “Presence,” starring Lucy Liu, was filmed entirely in a house in Cranford. Some of the scenes for “Bros” were filmed in Downtown Cranford on Alden Street, between North Union Avenue and Miln Street. And a significant portion of “Mothers’ Instinct” was filmed in Cranford.

Jon Crowley, executive director of New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission, explained what makes Cranford so desirable to filmmakers. He said, “Cranford has a great little downtown that’s just an art director’s dream. It’s really a charming downtown. The architect. The marquee of the theater is gorgeous. It can play Anywhere, USA. Beautiful architecture is highly desirable. You can come into New Jersey and do neighborhood hosts in Cranford and

you’re just down the road from any number of big cities. There’s a wide variety of looks. Wherever you go, you got it. Mountains with snow, a beach; you got that, too. Time is money. If a group has a requirement, New Jersey has it all.”

Crowley also points out that, with New Jersey being the fourth smallest state, if a person wasn’t born and raised here, they don’t realize the variety of different looks the state has inside it.

“Open farmland and everything in between,” he said. “You’re never 30 or 40 minutes from all that.”

There’s also the fact that many of the industry’s workforce live in Cranford and they’d choose to stay at home in their own backyard. Crowley said, “To move a crew from one location to the next, that’s how Cranford plays into the larger picture that is New Jersey. We have the largest experienced workforce outside of Los Angeles and New York City. Almost 40 percent of Teamsters live in New Jersey, and they would prefer to drive down the Parkway to work.”

With all the filming that’s happening in Cranford, Crowley believes it’s good for economic development. He said, “For one thing, the crews, when they wrap for the day, they’re having dinner and spending in (the) town. You don’t want to get in a car after you filmed for 10 hours.”

Photo Courtesy of J. Marra/NJMPTVC

Pictured is the ‘Bros’ film’s Pride Parade scene on Alden Street. Cranford is increasingly becoming a popular place to shoot movies for a variety of reasons.

Cranford native stars in indie film ‘Band on the Run’

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent

Dylan Randazzo is currently in Nassau, the capital and largest city of the Bahamas. He’s working on the Disney Cruise Line as part of the entertainment performance team – dancing, singing, acting and puppetry. But his beginnings were in Cranford. He grew up in Cranford. His mom grew up in Cranford. And all his siblings were born and raised in Cranford. “I’m such a community person, a people person,” he said. “Being in a smaller neighborhood with smaller families, it feels quaint but full of opportunities at the same time. A comforting vibe.”

Growing up, he said he would watch Disney movies and sing along with them. He began taking vocal lessons at age 7. He performed in choir and community theater. Randazzo graduated from Cranford High School in 2016.

He graduated in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in musical theatre from Marymount Manhattan College in New York City. It was a very difficult time for him, career-wise, because of the COVID19 pandemic. He said, “Every performance was through a screen. It was definitely a struggle not to thrive off audience energy, like live theater. I’m glad everything is fully back at this point.”

In his new film, “Band on the Run,”

Above left, Dylan Randazzo. Above right, a screen shot of ‘Band on the Run,’ with Randazzo on the left. The film is an indie comedy, an autobiography of the writer/director, Jeff Hupp. It takes place in the 1990s.

Randazzo feels it’s the highest point of his journey. “When the film came along, it felt like a great opportunity,” he said.

The film is an indie comedy, an autobiography of the writer/director, Jeff Hupp. It takes place in the 1990s.

“A young band gets a great opportunity and ends up having a speed bump,” Randazzo said. “The drummer’s father is ill. They have to take him on the road to a music festival. He’s a cranky old man. It’s not as much about the music … more about the father/son bond. It’s a funny road trip movie.”

Randazzo plays the bassist, Cody.

Monday-Thursday 12:00PM–08:30PM Friday-Saturday 12:00PM–09:00PM Sunday 12:00PM–08:30PM

“He’s definitely the more gullible one, with a heart of gold,” he said. “He’s also comedic relief as well. I relate to the heart aspect of the character. I’m a little smarter than Cody is.”

Hupp introduced the cast to the Detroit music scene. “I know the White Stripes was a huge band at the time,” said Randazzo. “Detroit is known for its Motown scene as well. We were only there for 10 days. We got to see so much of the city. We were working with so many people who grew up during this time period and were young musicians during that time. It was great to live in

those spaces Jeff lived in when he was younger.”

When Randazzo isn’t working, he enjoys his family and friendships. He said, “I love to watch movies, theater, listen to music and try to become a more cultured person in general. Travel and see the world, take in as many new experiences as I can, get to see as many walks of life as possible.”

For options to view “Band on the Run,” visit https://bandontherunmovie.com/.

To learn more about Dylan Randazzo, visit https://www.dylanrandazzo.com/.

Photos Courtesy of TPTB Agency

CRANFORD — The Cranford Fire Department is lighting up the Firehouse pink and fundraising for breast cancer research with the sale of exclusive Tshirts during the month of October in an effort to bring awareness to breast cancer. Proceeds from the sale of the Cranford Fire Department Breast Cancer Awareness T-shirts benefit Relay for Life/American Cancer Society.

According to Breastcancer.org, breast cancer accounts for about 30% of all new cancer cases in U.S. women. Approximately 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. Men are also affected by this deadly disease and have a 1 in 833 lifetime risk.

“The Cranford Fire Department is determined to bring awareness to this deadly disease,” said Fire Chief Dan

Czeh. “We all know someone who has been affected by breast cancer. It is our goal to bring awareness and get the message out that early detection saves lives. It is our hope that all females go for an annual mammography. Early detection is critical for surviving breast cancer. Males should also be proactive and see a doctor if they detect any abnormalities. Take care of your health today, so you can be here tomorrow.”

To purchase T-shirts, visit the firehouse, located at 7 Springfield Ave. Payment methods accepted include checks made out to FMBA Local 37, cash and venmo @Cranford-Local. The special breast cancer awareness CFD T-shirts are available in sizes Adult Small, Medium, Large, XL and XXL. T-shirts are $25. Help support research to end breast cancer.

Publisher: David Worrall

Advertising Manager: Joseph Farina

Managing Editor: David Jablonski

Committee has workshop

Cranford’s Township Committee will have a workshop on Monday, Oct. 6, at 7 p.m., in Room 108 of the Cranford Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Ave., Cranford.

Zoning Board to meet

Cranford’s Zoning Board of Adjustment will have a meeting on Monday, Oct. 6, at 7:30 p.m., in Council Chambers of the Cranford Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Ave., Cranford.

Cranford to have official meeting on Oct. 7

Cranford’s Township Committee will have an official meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 7, at 7 and 7:30 p.m., in Room 107/Council Chambers of the Cranford Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Ave., Cranford.

Planning Board to meet

Cranford’s Planning Board will have a workshop on Wednesday, Oct. 8, at 7:30 p.m., in Conference Room 108, followed by a public meeting at 8 p.m., in Council Chambers of the Cranford Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Ave., Cranford.

Scarecrow Stroll is coming

The main categories are 12 and Under, Adults/Families, Schools/Organizations, Cranford Businesses and Best Overall. Character categories are Best Reuse of Materials/Most Resourceful, Most Cranford Spirit, Fright Night, Funny Bones, Most Creative, Best Craftmanship/Attention to Detail, Best Celebrity Impression, Best Pop Culture Icon (Television Show/Movie/Book Reference), Carecrow

and Kids’ Creation. Visit downtowncranford.org for registration information.

Active Shooter Training Exercises to be conducted

The Cranford Board of Education and the Cranford Police Department take great pride in maintaining a strong and collaborative partnership. Together, it remains committed to fostering a safe and welcoming environment for both the community and our schools.

As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance safety and preparedness, the Cranford Police Department will be conducting Active Shooter Training Exercises on the following dates. Be advised that training times are scheduled for when school is not in session. These exercises are designed to help officers become more familiar with school buildings and their layouts, ensuring a more effective and timely response in

the event of an emergency. Your understanding and support is appreciated as the district continues working to keep the community safe. If you are around these buildings, you can expect a large police presence and a simulated activity. This is only a training exercise, there will be no threat to the public.

Active Shooter Training Exercise dates: Tuesday, Oct. 14, from 5 to 7 p.m., Walnut Avenue School – Training exercises occur after school hours; and Thursday, Nov. 6, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Cranford High School – Schools closed for NJEA Convention.

Planning Board to meet

Cranford’s Planning Board will have a workshop on Wednesday, Oct. 15, at 7:30 p.m., in Conference Room 108, followed by a public meeting at 8 p.m., in Council Chambers of the Cranford Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Ave., Cranford.

• Military Collections

Toys • Coin & Stamp Collections Toys • Coin & Stamp Collections

Art Work - Paintings - Prints - Bronzes • Fine China

Winter wedding style is a unique blend available

Winter weddings offer a unique blend of warmth, elegance and texture that few seasons can match.

With cooler weather comes the opportunity for sumptuous fabrics, rich tones and fashion that’s as cozy as it is chic.

Whether you will celebrate indoors or outdoors, a warm, cozy outfit can be stylish and functional on the big day.

For brides: Glamour with warmth

Winter brides can make a dramatic entrance while staying comfortable.

Long-sleeve gowns, lace overlays and rich velvet or satin materials create an elegant balance of coverage and style.

Faux-fur shawls, wraps or capes add both warmth and a touch of luxurious romance, according to Brides magazine.

For grooms: Textured tailoring

Opting for winter-appropriate fabrics like tweed gives grooms a polished look with seasonal flair.

Tweed suits in deep hues — like dark brown, green, navy or gray — are both warm and sartorially savvy, says Brides.

For a contemporary spin, consider the “Mocha Mousse” trend — earthy brown-gray

tones are currently praised for their refined neutrality and are available across fashion lines.

For guests: Colors, fabrics and function

If you’ll be attending a winter wedding as a guest, you have endless stylish options that blend fashion with practicality.

Rich color palettes: Jewel tones — ruby, emerald, sapphire, burgundy — offer depth and visual impact, while dark neutrals provide a sophisticated backdrop.

Luxurious fabrics: Velvet, satin and heavier crepes look elegant and keep you cozy. Sequins or beaded embellishments add festive sparkle — perfect for evening affairs.

Coverage and layering: Long-sleeve gowns and jumpsuits offer both warmth and elegance. Pairing outfits with tailored wool coats, capes or faux-fur wraps ensures comfort without sacrificing style.

Footwear, accessories

Closed-toe heels such as velvet pumps or slingbacks blend glam with practicality— keeping toes toasty without compromising on sophistication. Statement jewelry and refined outerwear pieces elevate your winter style.

Children enjoy annual Ice Pops with Cops/Cool Down

(Continued from Page 3)

teaching them about fire safety.”

Kayla Rajcevic is a full-time emergency medical technician. She said, “It’s fun to watch the kids have a good time.”

Rachel Manette, a per-diem EMT, said, “It’s great for kids to have an opportunity to learn more about what we do.”

Janissa Rosado, of Cranford, was there with her 2-year-old son, Ian, who enjoyed an ice pop. She said she liked getting to know the police, the community feel and coming out to socialize.

Bethanie Trubman said, “The police and fire departments engage with the kids and get to know them on a different level than just the streets.”

Emily List was there with her children, Eleanor, 4, and Everett, 7. Everett’s favorite part was getting sprayed with the hose.

List said, “It’s a good opportunity for kids to see first responders in a fun setting.”

Gianna Scuderi, of Kenilworth, was babysitting her cousins, Willow, 5, and Tallulah, 1. She said, “They were able to

See ICE POPS, Page 11

left, Willow, 5, and Tallulah, 1, enjoy the annual Ice Pops with Cops/Cool Down with the Fire Department event at Hillside Avenue School. Above center, Danny, 4, and Jack, 4, wear their own police caps as they eat free ice pops and enjoy the community event. Above right, Kim Stanfel stands with Joey, 4, Aubrey, 7, and Madison, 7, who are all smiles at the event at Hillside Avenue School.

5. Wear a reflecting item on your clothing so cars can see

6. Observe the trick or treating hours.

7. Have a hauntingly good time!

Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

Above

Above left, Patti Moreno, of Cranford, holds her daughter, Emma, 7 months, at the recent community event. Moreno said she enjoyed the interaction with people, adding ‘My husband is a retired firefighter from Elizabeth.’ Above, second from left, Joe Kropa stands with Fred, 2, and Molly, 6, at the annual Ice Pops with Cops/Cool Down with the Fire Department event at Hillside Avenue School. Above, third from left, Cranford Fire Department Battalion Chief Matt Lubin smiles at the recent community

event. He said ‘It’s always a pleasure to partner with the police department. I look forward to the new school year and meeting with the youngest residents and teaching them about fire safety.’ Above right, Kayla Rajcevic and Rachel Manette of the Cranford Fire Department are a full-time emergency medical technician and a per-diem EMT, respectively. Rajcevic said, ‘It’s fun to watch the kids have a good time,’ and Manette added, ‘It’s great for kids to have an opportunity to learn more about what we do.’