With a lei around her neck and a smile on her face, Rosalie Saltzman was having a great time. She said, “I enjoyed the kids doing the hula, the limbo, the music was very nice… Nice weather. My husband and I and friends had dinner by the pool.”
Friends of Cranford Pools recently hosted a luau, which included a hula hoop contest, a tropical tattoo station, games and a DJ. There were also crafts. Games included “Pin a Coconut on the Palm Tree.”
DJ Fish played a variety of popular music, including songs such as “Margaritaville,” by Jimmy Buffett, and “Red, Red Wine,” by Neil Diamond.
Connie Aschenbach, of Cranford, said, “It’s bringing the community together. It’s very positive. My daughter and her friends are having a great time. It’s very inclusive, diverse families here, with other special needs parents. Kids are having a great time.”
Jim Murphy said, “It’s nice to see the activity. We didn’t come for the event, but it was pleasantly welcomed.”
His sister, Sheila Murphy, said, “It’s very festive.”
Christine Chesney was with her 4-yearold son, Troy. She enjoyed the music, the activities, the arts and crafts, and the friends. She said, “The DJ is fun. I’ve been coming (to Orange Avenue Pool) since I was a kid.”
Troy added that they were there the day before for “Float Night.”
Allison Friedman and her husband, Joe, who have lived in Cranford for five years, were there with their children, Claire, 3, and Libby, 6. Allison said, “They did limbo games, got tattoos…”
Joe said, “There’s a lot of fun events. People are really nice and look out for each other. That’s the warmth of the community.”
Ashley Rumzie, of Rahway, grew up in Cranford. She was with her 2-year-old
See FUN-FILLED, Page 6
Above left, Christine Chesney and her son Troy, 4, enjoyed the music, the activities, the arts and crafts, and the friends. Above right, Allison Friedman squats next to her daughter, Claire, 3. Below left, Joe Friedman and his daughter Libby, 6, play limbo. Joe said, ‘There’s a lot of fun events. People are really nice and look out for each other. That’s the warmth of the community.’ Below right, Angel Hollis and her daughter, Ariel, 3, have a good time at the luau. Hollis said, ‘I love that the kids can enjoy themselves. They can swim, dance … continuous fun!’
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Genesee Stills Band serves up old school rock n’ roll
They know it’s only rock n’ roll but, boy, did they like it. The Genesee Stills Band plugged in on August 21 and unleashed almost two hours of classic rock tunes upon a delighted, jam-packed crowd of all ages. The Summer Sounds concert series continues to feature acts that represent various musical genres every Thursday evening at the Eastman Clock Plaza, starting promptly at 6 p.m. and concludes by 8 p.m. Bring a few comfortable beach chairs and a cooler, or enjoy one of the many fine eateries in the area. Go to downtowncranford.org for a schedule of upcoming shows.
Photos by David VanDeventer
Christmas comes early at the Centennial Avenue Pool
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
Cranford residents were dreaming of a wet Christmas – and they got it!
Centennial Avenue Pool recently had a Christmas in July celebration and opened its gates to non-members. Gabby Goncalves, a volunteer at Centennial Avenue Pool, said they had the event to raise awareness of the value of pools.
There were photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus, games such as “Pin the Nose on the Reindeer” and “Reindeer Horn Ring Toss,” seashell ornament crafts and snow cones.
Over the speakers, popular Christmas tunes played, such as “Joy to the World” and “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.”
Loretta Smith, who was dressed as Mrs. Claus, has been a resident of Cranford for more than 50 years.
“Happy Christmas in July,” said Santa, as he walked through the gates, wearing shorts, red Crocs, short-sleeves and sunglasses.
Walter Ribitzki, of Woodbridge, was there with his 3-year-old daughter Katerina. “I’m here enjoying the weather and the positive attitude,” he said.
Scott Danyus, of Cranford, was there with his children, Kailani, 5, and Kayden, 2. He said, “I love Christmas. It’s my favorite holiday. It brings me back to childhood.”
Allison Welch has lived in Cranford for 10 years. She was with her children, Patrick, 6, and Katie, 4. She said, “I love that they’re bringing so many families to the pool.”
Ben, 8, who was there with his family, said, “We were able to see Santa!” Christmas in July was hosted by Friends of Cranford Pools. Also, in an effort to increase membership, Friends of Cranford Pools hosts games every Wednesday at 4:30 p.m., at both Centennial Avenue Pool and the Orange Avenue Pool, according to Goncalves.
She added that, at a recent Town Hall meeting, the community spoke about how much the pool means to them. “We are trying to find individuals to volunteer to improve membership,” said Goncalves.
Both the Orange Avenue Pool and Centennial Avenue Pool have an array of amenities, including float nights, pickleball, volleyball, basketball, diving boards, baby pools, a splash pad, playgrounds, lap swimming and more. Each pool complex has locker rooms with showers, bathrooms and changing areas; table games such as ping pong and foosball; a playground; picnic areas with shade; a snack stand; and chairs and lounges, which are on a first-come, first-served basis.
To learn more about Cranford Township Recreation, visit: https://www.cranfordrecreation.org/.
Above left, volunteer Gabby Goncalves and her daughter, Evora, 3, and Loretta Smith, who played ‘Mrs. Santa Claus,’ stand together for the Christmas in July celebration at Centennial Avenue Pool. Above center, Dominick, 5, stands beside as giant inflatable snowman at the pool. Above right, Santa arrives, wearing shorts, red Crocs, short-sleeves and sunglasses, alongside Mrs. Claus. Below left, Katerina, 3, sits with Santa in his summer outfit. Below right, Nik, 9; Max, 6; Jace, 6; Ben, 8; Noah, 8; and Ameila, 9, are having a blast at Christmas in July. Bottom left, Becky Delguericio; Michael, 9; Meisha Williams-Bertels; Theodore, 9; and Thomas Bertels, are all smiles. Btoom right, a blow-up Santa welcomes people to the celebration at Centennial Avenue Pool.
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Zombie crabs, turtles and snakes, oh my!
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
Children who recently visited the Cranford Public Library met – and touched –several incredible animals.
Samantha Slevens, lead animal educator and owner of Zoophoria, offered the library patrons an opportunity to learn about several animals. Slevens has a degree in zoology from Delaware Valley University. She referred to herself as “Miss Sam.”
Cheeseburger is a cane toad. “When she sits and waits for food, she’s very patient,” said Slevens. Cheeseburger has no teeth and her color helps her blend in. She eats bugs. “Anything that fits inside her mouth,” said Slevens.
Zoomba is a zombie crab who likes to eat dead animals, creating a clean environment for other animals. “Some people eat them,” said Slevens.
Zombie crabs have eight legs and their claws are extremely strong. They can pick up food and put it into their mouth.
Bento the box turtle is a year old and grows into the size of a grapefruit. They hatch out of an egg and only travel a mile from where they were born. They can live up to 60 years of age. Slevens advises if you see one you can pick them up and move them in the same direction they were going. Or you can use a stick to assist them to move along. They eat meat and vegetables.
Zen is a 20-year-old leopard gecko. “If she gets scared, her tail will fall off,” said Slevens. “Her tail will grow back. She likes to eat bugs. They are common pets and live 30 years.”
The grand finale of the show was Noodles, a six-year-old red-tailed boa constrictor. “They live in the Amazon rain forest,” said Slevens. They eat rats, squirrels, and birds. They strike and grab animals and have no interest in eating humans.
After Slevens talked about each animal, she let the children pet them.
When the program was finished, she allowed children to pose with Noodles
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Above left, Samantha Slevens, lead animal educator and owner of Zoophoria, who referred to herself as Miss Sam, shows Cheeseburger, a cane toad, to the audience at a recent visit to the Cranford Public Library. Above center, Georgie, 8, meets Zoomba the zombie crab at a recent at the library. Above right, Bento the box turtle is a year old and grows into the size of a grapefruit. Below, Miss Sam shows off Noodles the red-tailed boa constrictor at her recent visit to the Cranford Public Library.
over their shoulders for photo ops.
Library patron and parent Lee Weitzen, of Cranford, enjoyed the program and said, “She lets you pet all the animals. A wide variety of animals. Really cool.”
Justin Barbaro, of Cranford, said, “It’s a community event, open to the public to introduce kids to wildlife.”
Ron Litz, of Cranford, said, “I loved how interactive the presenter was with kids and making animals exciting.”
His son, Everett, 7, said he liked the gecko and the turtle.
To learn more about Zoophoria, visit: https://www.zoophorianj.com/.
To learn more about The Cranford Public Library, visit: https://www.cranfordlibrary.org/.
Above left, Rosalie Saltzman looks festive as she attends a luau recently at the Orange Avenue Pool. She said, ‘I enjoyed the kids doing the hula, the limbo, the music was very nice… Nice weather. My husband and I and friends had dinner by the pool.’ Above, second from left, DJ Fish gets everyone moving at the luau with songs such as ‘Margaritaville,’ by Jimmy Buf-
fett, and ‘Red, Red Wine,’ by Neil Diamond. Above, third from left, Connie Aschenbach, of Cranford, said, ‘It’s bringing the community together. It’s very positive. My daughter and her friends are having a great time. It’s very inclusive, diverse families here, with other special needs parents. Kids are having a great time.’ Above right, Sheila Murphy and her brother, Jim, enjoy some sun at the luau. Jim Murphy said, ‘It’s nice to see the activity. We didn’t come for the event, but it was pleasantly welcomed.’
daughter, Annabelle. She said, “We’re having a great time hanging out with family and enjoying the pool.”
Angeli Hollis was there with her children. She said, “I love that the kids can
enjoy themselves. They can swim, dance … continuous fun!”
To learn more about the Orange and Centennial Outdoor Pools, visit: https://cranfordrecreation.org/1193/Ora nge-Centennial-Outdoor-Pools.
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Cranford to have 9/11 Memorial Service on Sept. 11
The township of Cranford will have its annual 9/11 Memorial Service on Wednesday, Sept. 11, at 6:30 p.m., at the Cranford 9/11 Memorial Park, located at the corner of North Union and Springfield avenues.
The solemn event, organized by the Cranford 9/11 Committee in partnership with the Cranford Clergy Council, will bring together local officials, first responders, veterans and residents to honor the memory of those lost on Sept. 11, 2001 –including six Cranford residents who perished in the attacks.
Participating groups will include the Cranford Veterans of Foreign Wars, Cranford Police Department, Cranford Fire Department, Cranford First Aid Squad, Cranford Township officials and members of the Cranford Clergy. The ceremony will
feature musical selections by the Cranford High School Madrigal Choir and the Union County Police and Fire Pipe and Drum Corp, adding a reflective and powerful musical tribute.
A candle-lighting ceremony will honor the lives of Cranford residents Dean P. Eberling, Christopher M. Grady, Robert H. Lynch Jr., Gregory Milanowycz, Thomas M. Regan and Leonard J. Snyder Jr., whose names are permanently etched into the fabric of the Cranford community and memorial site.
In the event of inclement weather, the service will be indoors at the First Presbyterian Church of Cranford, located directly across the street from the park.
Cranford residents are encouraged to attend the service to reflect, remember and stand together in unity and resilience.
Historical Society to host annual ‘Fall Festival’
The Cranford Historical Society will host a “Fall Festival” on Sunday, Sept. 28, from noon to 4 p.m., at the Crane-Phillips House Museum, 124 N. Union Ave..
The event has become a tradition in town and will consist of crafters and vendors selling their merchandise plus crafts and activities for children and guided tours of the museum, inside and out, according to a press release from the society. Vendors and local individuals or organizations who would like to sell their merchandise and join the festival that day should contact the society. The cost to participate as a vendor is $20 per spot and vendors are responsible for bringing their own table and chairs.
Anyone interested in purchasing a spot should call 908-276-0082, or email cranfordhistoricalsociety@verizon.net, providing a name, contact information and what type of merchandise is for sale. Once approved, mail a $20 check to the Cranford Historical Society, 38 Springfield Ave., Cranford 07016.
March of Time March of Time 2025 2025
March of Time March of Time 2025 2025
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ISTORY: Perrotti’s roots trace back to 1957, when David Sr. and Mario Perrotti immigrated to the United States from Vallata, Italy at the ages of 10 and 12, alongside their parents and seven siblings, where they settled in Elizabeth. The two brothers began working at a local, old-time pork store, where they learned the art of butchering and the meat market industry. Little did they know that they would become lifelong business partners. In the fall of 1967, David Sr. and Mario opened Perrotti’s Quality Meats, with the hope of turning their newly found craft into a business of their own. More than 55 years later, their business still operates at the original location, on the corner of S. Union Ave and Cherry Street in Cranford.
TODAY: At Perrotti’s today, they pride themselves in being a family-owned and operated business that treats its loyal customers like part of the family. David Sr’s, two sons, Dave Jr and Nick Perrotti have earned the responsibility of running the family business with an eye toward keeping the old-world butcher shop a part of the community for generations to come.
Always an active member of the community and surrounding towns, Perrotti’s Quality Meats sponsors numerous charitable endeavors, local sports and school activities and has been helping local families and businesses celebrate milestones with fa mily, friends, and colleagues for decades.
EXPANDED OFFERING: Through the years Perrotti’s Quality Meats has evolved to accommodate various needs of the community and surrounding towns by becoming a one-stop-shop. While the original service as a full-service butcher has bee n maintained, Perrotti’s has expanded its offering to a wide variety of homemade prepared foods, soups, salads, pizzas, homemade sauces, fresh bread daily, Imported Italian specialties, a full-service delicatessen, produce, dairy and much more.
Catering - Family Style Trays Pick up in
Owners Nick and Dave Perrotti
Jim, Dave, Nick, Tony, Marisa
Photo by Rick Gerritty
Photo by Rick Gerritty
Theodore Roosevelt Park rocks with free yoga classes
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
Alluem Yoga’s yearly summer event, “Rocks the Streets,” had a last-minute locational change.
Each summer, the Cranford yoga studio gives back to the community offering free classes at their “Rocks the Streets” event. Usually taking place at Post Office Plaza, gears had to be switched this year due to a water main break on North Avenue West.
“Rocks the Streets” happened at Theodore Roosevelt Park, with nearly 300 people in attendance. Rock music by Aerosmith and Twisted Sister was blaring from speakers, as yoga enthusiasts of all ages – from children to seniors –warmed up on their mats.
Local businesses, such as Morning Roast, Fresh Press Juice and Savor Snacks, were sampling their products.
Savor Snacks featured Dark Chocolate Dubai bars, cinnamon almonds and dried fruit.
“It’s an event we’ve done for years,” said manager Rebecca Wall. “It’s one of our favorites we do every summer. It’s a way to give back to our community. Any-
one who does yoga can see the direct impact on their mental health. Our community is really focused on bringing yoga off the mat and taking more time for presence and connection with other people and yourself. That’s one of the reasons yoga is so beneficial.”
Alluem Yoga, owned by Gina Pachkowski, has been open for 16 years. This yearly event is very meaningful to Pachkowski. She said, “It’s a time to get together to be in the community – in love. There’s so much happening in the world.” She got choked up as she spoke. And that’s exactly what the yoga community loves about Pachkowski – her heart and spirit. She’s created a special dynamic, a safe place that’s welcoming for everyone.
Tara Goldin, of Westfield, is a teacher at Alluem. She’s been a teacher for 15 years and offers pre-natal yoga and vinyasa flow. She said, “Community yoga is such an individual practice. The mat is the place to quiet down. It creates this great energy. It’s such a welcoming space at Alluem.”
Hetty Cheng took lessons at Alluem
Above left, Alluem Yoga owner Gina Pachkowski and manager Rebecca Wall stand together at Theodore Roosevelt Park, where nearly 300 people took part in some of the free yoga classes offered in the
yearly summer event, ‘Rock the Streets.’ Above right, Alluem Yoga teacher Tara Goldin gives peace signs while teaching free yoga
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Cranford turns out for free yoga classes in
(Continued from Page 13)
before she moved to California. When she returns to New Jersey, she also returns to Alluem. Cheng began practicing right before the pandemic. “It grounds me,” she said.
Lady Diaz, of Rahway, was there with a bunch of friends who take classes at Alluem with her. “We love each other,” she said. “We found each other. I call yoga my temple. I found myself. It’s a place where we love each other. I never see anybody turn their shoulder. We hug each other. It’s a sweet, beautiful place. Gina and all the teachers make it special.”
Don Linden, of Cranford, said, “It (yoga) gets me out of my head for an hour or so, once or twice a week. It’s so friendly and accommodating.”
His wife, Joanne, said, “I love the studio. I love all my teachers. I do the same class every week. I feel I’ve gotten a lot out of yoga. How I react to things. How I stay present.”
Michele Santo, co-owner of Savor Snacks, said, “It’s a nice event. Just to be outside, take a deep breath.”
Above left, Hetty Cheng moved to California and comes back to visit Alluem Yoga whenever she visits the Garden State, particularly ‘Rock the Streets.’ Above center, Don and Joanne Linden, of Cranford, take part in Alluem Yoga’s yearly summer event, ‘Rocks the Streets.’ Joanne said, ‘I love the studio. I love all my teachers. I do the same class every week. I feel I’ve gotten a lot out of yoga. How I react to things. How I stay present.’ Above right,
Michele Santo, co-owner of Savor Snacks, stands at her table at the recent ‘Rocks the Streets’ event. ‘It’s a nice event,’ she said. ‘Just to be outside, take a deep breath.’
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Downtown Cranford events are offered
Senior Citizen Film Series: Though Cranford Theater is currently closed for renovations. Downtown Cranford and Cranford Theater owner Doreen Sayegh wanted to find a way to continue the Senior Citizen Film Series. It was announced that Union County senior citizens, 55 and older, will have the opportunity to see a movie at the Cranford Community Center located at 220 Walnut Ave. The schedule of the Senior Citizen Film Series is as follows: Sept. 23: “The Notebook,” and Sept. 30: “On the Waterfront.”
You can reserve your free ticket on the Eventbrite page: https://www.eventbrite. com/o/downtown-cranford-51374933663!
All of the movie screenings start at noon and a guest speaker from the film industry will present after the movie. This program is made possible by funds from the county of Union, New Jersey Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. 18th Annual Scarecrow Stroll: Registration for the biggest event of the fall, the 18th Annual Scarecrow Stroll, is now open.
IN MEMORIAM
• BOBROWSKI – Dorette, of Cranford; Aug. 6. Musical company representative, Sunday School teacher for preschool class. Mother, grandmother, 78.
• HURLEY – Edward, of Cranford and Naples, Fla.; June 17. Retired from NJ Bell after 26 years, business owner. Husband, father, grandfather, 87.
• THOMAS – Constance “Connie,” of Cranford; July 3. Music educator, Kean adjunct instructor. Daughter, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, 66.
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.
Battalion Chief Leo Schaeffer has retired from the Cranford Fire Department. Schaeffer, whose last official day was June 30, began serving as a call firefighter in 1994. He was hired as a career firefighter in 2000. He was appointed as a fire inspector in 2005, promoted to lieutenant in 2014 and battalion chief in 2015.
Schaeffer had a positive impact on the fire department and everyone who worked next to him or as part of his command during his 25 years of dedicated service to the Cranford Fire Department.
“This is a happy occasion for B/C Schaeffer. He prioritized the safety and well-being of all who worked under his command. He served as a mentor to many and was dedicated to the township and fire department. B/C Schaeffer was at his best when people were at their worst, said Chief Dan Czeh.
“When someone suffered an emergency,
B/C Schaeffer would always set an example of what it meant to be a public servant. If there was a house fire, he would welcome those affected to the firehouse for a meal. He would consistently check in with the residents to ensure they were getting the support they needed to get their lives back in order.
“B/C Schaeffer would foster a long-term relationship with the people who were impacted by tragedy and prioritize their needs. He is very empathetic and truly understands the definition of public service.
We are proud to have served with B/C Schaeffer. We will truly miss him. We wish B/C Schaeffer the best of health, happiness and success in retirement and congratulate him on an outstanding 25-year career.”
“Cranford is so fortunate to have employees like Leo who are dedicated to the community they serve,” said Public Safety Commissioner Kathleen Miller Prunty.
Photo Courtesy of Township of Cranford
Battalion Chief Leo Schaeffer has retired, effective Tuesday, July 1, from the Cranford Fire Department.
2025 2025
HIGH SCHOOL HIGH SCHOOL
Cougars will have to work with inexperienced team
By JR Parachini Sports Editor
The last time Cranford High School had so few players returning, head coach Erik Rosenmeier had not coached a game yet.
That was 2005, his first year at the helm of the Cougars.
It worked out in the end for Cranford that year. Although they did not make the playoffs for the fourth straight season, they were still good enough to produce a winning season of 6-4 with a new regime.
“We have just one returning starter back on defense and only four on offense,” Rosenmeier said. “We were just talking about that and it’s the least amount since my first year here.”
Despite the fact that this is the most inexperienced Cranford team in two decades, the same standards are now expected.
“We’re counting on two scrimmages and the fact that we have enough guys to fight for spots,” Rosenmeier said.
Cranford’s first scrimmage was scheduled at Edison High School on Tuesday, Aug. 19. The gamescrimmage was set to be home against Westfield High School on Friday, Aug. 22.
Rosenmeier has guided Cranford to 17 winning seasons and 13 playoff seasons in his first 20 seasons in charge. The Cougars have made the playoffs 13 out of 19 times, including the last 13 times in a row, and have posted winning seasons 14 of the last 15 years.
Somewhere along the way, players graduated and newcomers took the field. The Cougars keep on winning and keep on winning enough to make the playoffs.
“The expectations don’t change,” Rosenmeier said.
See CRANFORD, Page 18
Photo by JR Parachini
Cranford High School football captains, from left and all seniors, are Joey Acinapura, Quinn Smith, Austin Hooey and Ryder Connors.
Cranford
(Continued from Page 17)
“It’s almost always seniors and juniors starting here for the first time. Last year, Gabe Worrell starting as a sophomore was a rarity.”
Worrell, now a junior tailback and
one of the four returning starters on offense, led the Cougars in rushing last year with 800 yards.
The other three returning starters on offense include senior guard Austin Hooey, senior tackle Andre Pereira and
coached a game yet.
senior slot wide receiver Ryder Connors, who caught 17 passes for 200 yards a year ago.
Senior middle linebacker Joey Acinapura is the lone returning starter on defense. Acinapura was Cranford’s sec-
at home
ond-leading tackler last year with 65 total.
“Joey is one of the best players in the area,” Rosenmeier said. “He also saw time as a sophomore.
Above left, Cranford High School football head coach Erik Rosenmeier talks to his Cougars after a pre-season practice. The last time Cranford High School had so few players returning, head coach Erik Rosenmeier had not
Above right, the Cranford High School football team’s offense on the move. Cranford will now open
against Carteret High School on Friday, Sept. 12, because Carteret’s field is unplayable.
Photos by JR Parachini
See COUGARS, Page 19
Cougars to open at home against Carteret High School
(Continued from Page 18)
“He’s physical, has good leverage, is fast and is a great tackler.”
Cranford went 7-3 last year and returned to the North 2, Group 3 playoffs, beating Summit High School, 2722, at home in the first round and then falling at top-seeded eventual champion Northern Valley Regional High School at Old Tappan, 22-14, in the semifinals.
After a season-opening loss at home to Somerville High School, Cranford won six of its final seven regular season games, the only loss at Summit, which Cranford then beat at home in the playoffs.
The beginning of a five-game winning streak was a big 17-13 win at Rahway High School. Also finishing 7-3 and also making the playoffs, Rahway qualified in North 1, Group 4 and also, in the same manner as Cranford, fell 22-14 in its playoff loss, a first-rounder at second-seeded Ridge High School.
Cranford will now open at home against Carteret High School on Friday, Sept. 12, because Carteret’s field is unplayable. The Cougars were to open with three straight road games and then play four consecutive home contests. The home-opener was originally South Plainfield High School on Friday, Sept. 19.
Now, Cranford has a nine-game regular season schedule that goes two in a row on the road, then five straight at
home and then the final two away.
The captains this year, all seniors, include Acinapura, Quinn Smith, Connors and Hooey.
Cranford opens Week Zero this year with a tough game at Bernards High School on Friday, Aug. 29. The Mountaineers are coming off an 11-1 season, where their only loss was at home to Malcolm X. Shabazz High School, 2814, in the North 1, Group 2 final.
Two years ago, Bernards, still guided by longtime, successful head coach Jon Simoneau, captured its first-ever sectional state championship by winning North 2, Group 2 with a perfect 12-0 record. The Mountaineers then lost at North 1, Group 2 champ Westwood Regional High School, 17-0, in a Group 2 semifinal, finishing 12-1.
Cranford Cougars 2025
Friday, Aug. 29, at Bernards, 7 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 5, at Somerville, 6:30 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 12, Carteret, 7 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 19, South Plainfield, 7 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 26, Summit, 7 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 3, Rahway, 7 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 10, Scotch Plains–Fanwood, 7 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 17, at Colonia, 6 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 25, at Hillside, 1 p.m.
Photos by JR Parachini
Above, the Cranford High School offense lines up in front of the Cranford coaches, who are observing them in action. Below, Cranford High School will seek to make the playoffs this year for the 14th straight time.
