Cranford Life - June 2024

CRANFORDLIFE

Knights of Columbus hosts a successful Special Citizens Drive

On Saturday, April 13, and Sunday, April 14, the Cranford Knights of Columbus had its annual Special Citizens Drive collecting money for organizations that support individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. The Knights of Columbus Supreme Council has supported the Special Olympics since 1968 through a close relationship with Eunice Kennedy Shriver and her husband, Brother Knight Sargent Shriver. Since 1968, the Knights of Columbus has raised and donated more than $600 million to many other programs as well with the Special Olympics being the largest. The Supreme Council also covers the cost for Special Olympians from the United States and Canada to attend the Special Olympics World Games every year when it takes place throughout the world.

In New Jersey, many other councils have Special Citizens Drives every year with local canning hosting similar collections, Polar Plunges and other special events to raise funds. In Cranford, Brother Knights were out in force canning and collecting in front of local businesses where permitted, the post office, the Conversation Center and after all the Masses at St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church. This year, it set a record, collecting more than $3,700.

The raised funds will be donated to the Shining Stars Network and the Cerebral Palsy League, both of which have been supported in the past, and to the Mount Carmel Guild, which is new this year. From the total of all monies collected by New Jersey local councils, the New Jersey Knights of Columbus State Council keeps 10% of the gross from every council, which is donated exclusively to the New Jersey Special Olympics.

Brother Knights Joe Starkey and Charlie Maucione have served as chairpersons for the Special Citizens Drive for many

Pictured are, from left, Knights of Columbus Brothers Joe Patella and Chris Muller, Grand Knight Kevin Cumiskey and Brother Rich Leahey, who participated and supported the 2024 drive and many other past drives.

years and, thanks to their efforts, as well as the support from council members, the drive has always done very well and been a success. All Cranford residents and visitors to the town and St. Michael’s parishioners who support this cause each and every year are thanked.

Since the Council’s founding in 1970, the Cranford Knights of Columbus, a Catholic Men's Fraternal Organization,

has been dedicated to our four core principles: Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism. Our Council supports many worthy charities and civic causes and is committed to being a viable part of our community. For information about joining the Cranford Council, please contact our Grand Knight Kevin Cumiskey at 973390-9327 or visit our web site, www.cranfordknights.org.

Photo Courtesy of John J. Doolan

Script-in-hand presentation of a new play followed by a discussion with the author

The Theater Project presented a script-in-hand performance of “StreetCART,” by Lynn Aylward, on Saturday, May 18. The presentation, the last of the 2024 spring series, was followed by a lively discussion with the playwright, director, actors and audience.

“StreetCART” is a riff on Tennessee Williams’ play, “A Streetcar Named Desire.” It tells the story of a couple living a quintessential and happy San Francisco life – Will’s in tech, Enrique’s a chef and they live in an overpriced apartment in the Mission. Will is pioneering a new augmented reality technology, CART, with huge implications for psychotherapy. When Will’s drama queen sister, Alice, shows up on the doorstep, the temptation to test the new tech becomes … desirable.

Aylward is an emerging playwright who recently moved from San Francisco via Scotland to New Jersey. Her short plays have

The famous and their flowers

The Cranford Historical Society will host a presentation on Saturday, June 1, at 1 p.m., at the Cranford Community Center, 220 Walnut Ave., Cranford. Debra Nicholls of debrassimplegarden.com will discuss a unique group of famous men and women throughout history, from George Washington to Coco Channel to Queen Elizabeth and their relationship with flowers and gardens. Stay for tea and cookies. The program is free but space is limited. RSVP to 908-276-0082 or cran-

been produced in California, Florida and New York. Her fulllength plays have been semi-finalists in the Bay Area Playwrights Festival and the City Lights Theatre (San Jose) Festival. She taught playwriting and directed for Rising Voices, a theater group for incarcerated women in Oakland, California, and is a co-founder of Same Boat Theater, the Bay Area’s first eco-justice performance group. Her full-length play, “Three Chords and the Truth,” was in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2021.

The performance and discussion with the author, cast and director took place at the Cranford Community Center, 224 Walnut Ave.; admission was free, thanks in part to the sponsorship of the Friends of the Cranford Library and a Union County LAP Grant. The event is part of a monthly series of new play readings presented at the Center by The Theater Project in the fall, winter and spring.

NEWS CLIPS

fordhistoricalsociety@verizon.net. For more information, see the website at www.cranfordhistoricalsociety.org.

CVG Velocity 5K Race hosted

The 13th annual CVG Velocity 5K Race will be on Sunday, June 2, at 9 a.m. The race starts at Lincoln School, 132 Thomas St., Cranford. This family-friendly race has a flat, scenic route through Centennial Village and Mohawk Park.

The preregistration price is $30 for adults and $25 for children 18 years of age

and younger. Same day registration is $35 for adults and $30 for children 18 years of age and younger. Registration is online only, including race day. For more information, email CVGVelocity@gmail.com.

Township Committee to have workshop meeting

The Cranford Township Committee will have a workshop meeting on Monday, June 10, at 7 p.m., at the Cranford Township Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Ave., Cranford.

Planning Board to meet

The Cranford Planning Board will meet on Wednesday, June 5, at 7:30 p.m., at the Cranford Township Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Ave., Cranford.

Zoning Board to meet

The Cranford Zoning Board of Adjustment will meet on Mondays, June 10 and 24, at 7:30 p.m., at the Cranford Township Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Ave., Cranford.

See NEWS, Page 14

Photo Courtesy of The Theater Project Playwright Lynn Aylward, author of ‘StreetCART.’

New YMCA hosts an open house celebration

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent

Carnival games, arts and crafts, refreshments and prizes were offered at the YMCA’s Open House event recently. The Westfield Area YMCA and the township of Cranford partnered to renovate the former Cranford Pool and Fitness Center into the Cranford YMCA. It’s located at 401 Centennial Ave.

Significant improvements include new pool filtration, chemical feed, pump and UV systems, as well as renovated main locker rooms, a new multipurpose space and a state-of-the-art fitness center.

“We’re super-excited,” said Amanda Aguirre, senior director of Member Services at the Westfield Area Y.

Kim Koza-Baird, senior director of aquatics at the Y, said the new renovations cost $1.6 million. “We’re excited to be part of the Cranford community,” she said.

“It’s really nice,” added lifeguard Julia Tribiano.

“All new equipment,” said fitness coach Cararose Coppola. “A cardio section with a biker, rower, new strength training equipment, new free weights with dumb bells, a stretching area, Keiser machines — people really like them. We have a comprehensive variety of anything you might need. We always have a fitness coach on staff. One-on-one personal training. We’re always here to help.”

The upgraded fitness center has more than 50 pieces of cutting-edge cardio/strength equipment. There’s also new flooring and fresh paint throughout the facility.

Programs include childcare education, camp, youth sports and dance, health and wellness and parties and celebrations. There’s also Taekwondo, a track club, a dance academy, personal training, teen trips, water exercise classes for seniors, specialized programs and classes to meet particular needs and a Parkinson’s disease exercise program.

Membership grants access to the facilities of the Cranford YMCA. The Cranford YMCA offers individual and family memberships for all ages, from infants to seniors. Memberships can be paid annually or drafted monthly, with discounted rates for Cranford residents. Proof of membership is required to enter the building. A mobile app is also available where an ID card can be stored virtually.

Note that use of the fitness center is for members 15 years of age or older.

Financial assistance is available for those with a bona fide financial hardship that live or work in Cranford, Garwood, Mountainside or Westfield.

The Cranford YMCA also has many job opportunities, including yoga instructor, track and field instructor, basketball coach, lifeguard, fitness coach and personal trainer.

Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sunday, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

To learn more about the Cranford YMCA programs and memberships, call 908-7097260 or visit https://westfieldynj.org/programs/cranford-ymca/.

At left, the American flag flutters in front of the new Cranford YMCA on 401 Centennial Ave. The Westfield Area YMCA and the township of Cranford partnered to renovate the former Cranford Pool and Fitness Center into the Cranford YMCA. Above, standing next to the popcorn machine, Amanda Aguirre, senior director of Member Services at the Westfield Area Y, is all smiles.

Above left, fitness coach Cararose Coppola, right, stands next to a YMCA guest trying out one of the more than 50 pieces of cutting-edge cardio/strength equipment at the upgraded fitness center. Above right, this pool is one of the many features offered at the new YMCA in Cranford. At left, the new all-purpose room offers a wide variety of activities for all ages. Pictured, the tables are set for the recent Open House.

Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

UCNJ scholar-athlete wins NJCAA Region XIX Golf Championship

Union College of Union County, NJ student-golfer Patrick Murray won the National Junior College Athletic Association Region XIX Golf Championship on Tuesday, May 14, at the Ash Brook Golf Course in Scotch Plains.

Murray is a two-time Garden State Athletic Conference champion and now a two-time NJCAA Region XIX champion. In 2024, he placed first in all nine tournaments he entered.

He is a returning All-American that will be competing again at the NJCAA Division 3 National Championship from Monday, June 3, through Friday, June 7, in Chautauqua, N.Y.

He’s coached by the college’s associate professor in business, Marc Postiglione. In addition to being an excellent golfer, Murray also excels in the classroom. He has a near perfect grade-point average

and is graduating from UCNJ this spring with a degree in sport management. Murray is also involved on campus as a part of the Sport Management Advisory Committee, a member of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, he serves as a peer tutor in the Academic Learning Center and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa honor society.

This fall, Murray plans to attend Kean University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in sport management and play on their newly formed golf team.

“We wish Patrick continued academic and athletic success. We’re very proud of him and his many accomplishments while at UCNJ. We also extend our thanks and appreciation to Coach Postiglione for supporting Patrick both on the golf course and in the classroom,” said UCNJ President Margaret M. McMenamin.

SCHOOL IS OUT:

From left are Patrick Murray with head golf coach Marc Postiglione. Murray won the National Junior College Athletic Association Region XIX Golf Championship on Tuesday, May 14, at the Ash Brook Golf Course in Scotch Plains.

CRANFORDLIFE

Publisher: David Worrall

Managing Editor: David Jablonski

Advertising Manager: Joseph Farina

Editorial@TheLocalSource.com

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.

Mountain Avenue Springfield 973-376-9381

Photo Courtesy of Margaret Ortuso

Monday: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm

Tuesday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Wednesday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Thursday: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm

Friday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Saturday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Sunday: Closed

Diamondettes find a lot of twirling success

Diamondettes Baton and Dance is the next generation of Patti’s Dolls that was based in Union for decades by the infamous Miss Pat. Owner/director Nicole Marie Placca says being one of “Patti’s Dolls” made her want to have her own baton school one day. She is proud to carry the teachings and legacy of Miss Pat. Diamondettes is run out of several Union County locations, primarily Cranford and Union.

The program incorporates the once common, traditional teaching of baton twirling in combination with a unique series of instructional strategies and social emotional learning activities that reflects her experience as a public educator. “I spend just as much time creating sequences of lessons like I do in my classroom. I want students to feel the reasons for being there and for learning, while adequate means of instruction are given,” Placca said. As educators, they are taught strategies to effectively instruct students of all needs and abilities – sports should be the same. Children need to realize that their success is their success as true to themselves.

Some of our missions at the Diamondettes are to normalize and celebrate individuality in athletics, create success by what it means to each child and to show everyone that they can become an athlete no matter their background. They also

LAbove left, from left are twirling soloists Natalynn Molina, Niyah Murphy and

center is Leyla Akin. Above right are some Diamondettes performing in a recent competition.

focus on shaping the overall child both mentally and physically. Diamondettes are taught to “shine” from within first, and the importance of positive self-talk and inner dialogue is emphasized in all classes. No one can accomplish a goal if they don’t have the proper mindset or self-worth.

Success is not one-size-fits-all. A dancer who takes baton lessons would feel accomplished if they are able to do pirouettes cleanly while twirling, while another student will feel accomplished that they found the courage to even take

classes and be part of a team.

Competition program

All students are encouraged to perform, as the program is designed with the intention to learn the baton for a purpose and end result. Attending competitions opens their eyes to the true world of baton twirling and provides so many rewarding experiences that other sports don't because this is such a unique activity.

This is not a stressful, rigid competitive sport where winning is the goal. As competition season is approached, students

are reminded that the intended outcome is for them to perform a clean routine to the best of their abilities while realizing their worth, strong character and dedication for doing so. When they do win, it’s just an added bonus.

Given the novice level and newness of team groupings each year, it is truly impressive to see what the girls are able to accomplish and what they are willing to accomplish.

It’s an accomplishment to see the twirlers perform alongside fellow teams

See DIAMONDETTES, Page 9

Our knowledgeable and

repair even the most challenging problems using the latest technology to diagnose your vehicle. We pride ourselves on our communication and honesty with our

Photos Courtesy of Nicole Marie Placca

Christina Paterson. Above

DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH —Competition teams run out of Diamond Gymnastics, including, from left, back row, owner/director Nicole Marie Placca, Soleil Lopez, Jade Gelin-Pierre, Leyla Akin, Meghan Charlton, Sofia Sermeno, Niyah Murphy and Peyton Borges; and front row, Christina Paterson, Madison Borges, Jolene Chen, Everly Chen, Giuliana Concetta Schultz and Natalynn Molina. Missing are Aubrey Soss and Mikaela Dearin.

Photo Courtesy of Nicole Marie Placca

Diamondettes Baton and Dance finds success in recnet competitions, including the Freedom Cup 2024 Championshipds, the NJTA State

Chamnpionships and the USTA – United State Twirling Championships – NJ State Championships and Festival of the Future.

Diamondettes have busy and successful season

(Continued from Page 6)

that Placca grew up with and respect, as they are true, well-known staples of the twirling community.

Season highlights

Freedom Cup 2024 Championships, Boston, MA

Saturday, Feb. 17, and Sunday, Feb. 18

Giuliana Concetta Schultz, age 5,

First twirler to represent Diamondettes at this organization

NJTA State Championships, Bloomfield

Sunday, April 21

Christina Paterson – first place, Show Twirl

Natalynn Molina – first place, Beginner One Baton Solo; first place, Novice One Baton Solo

USTA – United State Twirling Association – NJ State Championships and Festival of the Future, Rahway

Sunday, May 5

Diamondettes Primary Dance Twirl Team – second place

atmosphere.

Diamondettes Juvenile Dance Twirl Team – won both of their Dance Twirl Categories

Leyla Akin – first place, One Baton Solo

Giuliana Concetta Schultz – received a “no drop” award for performing her one baton solo with all catches and second place, Basic Strut

Jade Gelin-Pierre – Received two “no drop” awards for performing both of her one baton solos with all catches

Christina Paterson – second place, One Baton Solo

Natalynn Molina – second place, Beginner One Baton Solo

Photos Courtesy of Nicole Marie Placca

Kean awards bachelor’s degrees to more than 2,800 graduates

Kean University’s undergraduate Class of 2024 celebrated an out-of-this-world graduation with family, friends and a powerful “reality check” from commencement speaker and renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson.

The festive undergraduate commencement ceremony was on Thursday, May 16, at the Prudential Center in Newark. Kean awarded more than 2,800 bachelor’s degrees this year.

Tyson set the tone of the ceremony with a message for the graduates on the importance of lifelong learning.

“You want to climb higher? Be ready to do some climbing after you get out,” he said.

The scientist known for high-profile television appearances, including “PBS Nova,” “The Big Bang Theory” and “The Simpsons,” sprinkled his speech with references ranging from Apollo astronauts to rock star Alice Cooper and ended his remarks with advice.

“I want to create a world where if aliens came to visit, they wouldn't look around and run back home and say, ‘There's no sign of intelligent life on Earth,’” Tyson said. “Rise up to this challenge. Make decisions in the interest of our health, our wealth, our security, so subsequent generations can look back on you, on us, and be proud of the decisions we have made.”

See NEIL, Page 11

Above left, Kean University hosted a festive undergraduate commencement ceremony at the Prudential Center in Newark on Thursday, May 15. Kean awarded more than 2,800 bachelor’s degrees this year.

Above right, Renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson urged Kean University’s Class of 2024 to be lifelong learners in his commencement address. At right, graduating students waved to family and friends as they processed into Kean University’s undergraduate commencement at the Prudential Center in Newark.

Photos Courtesy of Kean University

Graduation

(Continued from Page 11)

The commencement ceremony included student reflections from valedictorian Maliha Haider, who received her degree in computer science and senior class President Glynnis Tan, who earned her degree in global business.

“To my fellow graduates, congratulations!” Haider said. “Today we celebrate not only our academic achievements but also the resilience that brought us to this moment.”

Both thanked friends, family and Kean faculty and staff.

“As we bid farewell to one chapter, I am filled with a sense of pride and excitement for what lies ahead,” Tan said. “This is not the end or goodbye. This is a hello to new beginnings.”

Graduating students crossed the stage one-by-one to receive their degrees, shaking hands with their college deans. Finally, the graduates stood and degrees were conferred, to resounding applause, followed by the traditional tassel turn on their graduation caps.

Included among the new alumni was Alyson Ballard, of Brick, who overcame challenges related to cerebral palsy during her academic journey.

“It means a lot to me to graduate,” said Ballard, who earned her liberal arts degree from Kean Online. “It took a lot to get here, especially because of my disability, so I'm very, very proud right now.”

Kean University had its graduate commencement ceremony on Tuesday, May 14.

Photo Courtesy of Kean University Kean University hosted a festive undergraduate commencement ceremony at the Prudential Center in Newark on Thursday, May 16.

Will O’Keefe, track and field

“Will O’Keefe has been a tremendous athlete, competitor and leader for us in his four years at CHS. He excels at and has won multiple championships in pole vault and javelin. Will is also always the first one to step up and volunteer for a relay if a spot needs to be filled. Will has tremendous drive and his work ethic is unparalleled. We are confident that he will continue to go on to do great things in college and beyond.”

Coach John S chiano

12:00PM–08:30PM

What were your goals this season?

My goals consisted of putting all of the work that I’ve done in the past two years toward competing to the best of my ability in every single meet, and to consistently improve to be better than I was the day before.

How do you get ready for a game?

I like to listen to peaceful music before a meet. I often found that being nervous was a detriment to my performance. When I can be relaxed and loose I can perform more consistently and preserve energy.

What was your biggest accomplishment this season?

Becoming the Conference Champion in two events – pole vault, javelin – was likely my biggest accomplishment.

What’s the most important thing your coach has taught you?

My coaches somehow managed to instill a solid work ethic in a 15-year-old kid when I first joined the program. My coaches were able to show me what was possible when you work relentlessly at something that you want to accomplish.

Who are your favorite professional athletes?

My favorite pro athletes are TJ McConnell and Fletcher Cox.

What is your favorite subject in school?

Computer science.

What other hobbies do you have?

I like to skateboard. I’m the treasurer of the Film Club and I enjoy making movies. I’m an elite badminton player. I’m an avid reader, with my favorite genre being horror.

8. What are your plans after high school?

I am going to attend Rutgers University New Brunswick with a major in computer science.

• BARDWIL – Valerie P., of Cranford, formerly of Elizabeth and Scranton, Pa.; May 21. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 92.

• GOLDSTEIN – Paul, of Temecula, Calif., formerly of Hillside, Cranford; April

28. Worked for The Star-Ledger. Husband, father, brother, 71.

• MURATORE – Audrey Louise, of Cranford, formerly of South Orange; May

16. Business owner. Wife, mother, sister, grandmother, 62.

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.

NEWS CLIPS

(Continued from Page 2)

Township Committee to meet

The Cranford Township Committee will have a conference meeting on Tuesday, June 11, at 7 p.m., followed by a regular meeting at 7:30 p.m., both at the Cranford Township Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Ave., Cranford.

Cranford PD to be ‘Leveling the Playing Field’ on June 22

Did you know that 1 in 5 underserved households are not getting their children

involved in athletics because of the rising price of sporting equipment? Leveling the Playing Field is a nonprofit organization that collects and redistributes equipment to expand access and equity within youth sports and recreation programs in underresourced communities. LPF expanded to a third warehouse location in Philadelphia during fall 2021, to ensure that all children in the Greater Philadelphia area can get off the sidelines.

To learn more about LPF, visit www.levelingtheplayingfield.org or contact Detective John Rattigan.

Sophia DeMarco, softball

“As Sophia’s coach, she deserves this honor because of her hard work and dedication to this sport and this program. She has made a huge impact to this softball program due to her leadership skills, athleticism and commitment. She comes to practice and games with a smile on her face, ready to go.”

Melissa F anelli , hea d Cranfor d softball coach

What were your goals this season?

To become a better leader. A person on the team that anyone could look up to, and go to for advice.

How do you get ready for a game?

There’s nothing crazy that I do to prepare for games, just listen to music and just remind myself to have fun.

What was your biggest accomplishment this season?

Playing a new position this year that I haven’t played in a high school game yet: outfield.

What’s the most important thing your coach has taught you?

My coaches and I have an amazing, trusting relationship. The biggest thing coach has taught me is to trust myself and to have fun.

Who are your favorite professional athletes?

Bryce Harper and Jocelyn Alo.

What is your favorite subject in school?

My favorite subject in school is science.

What other hobbies do you have?

My other hobbies are playing the guitar and playing pickleball with my family.

What are your plans after high school?

Next year, I am playing softball at Seton Hall. I am majoring in education. And I can’t wait for what’s to come in the future.