Cranford Life - July 2021 by WORRALL MEDIA

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Trustee is honored

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Enjoy Taste of Cranford

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K of C gives scholarships

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JULY 2021

VOL. 05 NO. 10

Cranford graduates the Class of 2021 By EmilyAnn Jackman Staff Writer CRANFORD — On Tuesday, June 22, the 320 graduates of Cranford High School’s Class of 2021 were cheered on by a crowd of family and friends at the high school’s Memorial Field. Praising the graduates’ accomplishments despite the COVID-19 pandemic, CHS Principal Mark Cantagallo said he wished them nothing but success, adding he wanted the graduating class to set goals, and that one should be kindness. “They’ve exceeded expectations in every way, certainly during this challenging year, but throughout their entire 13 years in Cranford Public Schools. This is a great community,” said Cantagallo on Tuesday, June 22. “We couldn’t do it without Dr. Rubin, our superintendent, our Board of Education and all of our safety partners. “It’s been an amazing year,” he continued. “Kudos to our teachers and our nurse, another group of individuals who’ve exceeded expectations. Just the partnership we’ve had is really the reason why we’re here today. It’s a culminating event, and I’m excited to celebrate their success. I want the graduating class to set goals. One of those goals is to be kind to people every day, and you’re going to be able to change the world and make a difference.” Leading the graduating class into the future was valedictorian Robert Kelly. “I’m very proud of being the valedictorian,” Kelly said on Tuesday, June 22. “I’ve been working for this for the past four years, so it’s very nice to have achieved it now. I’m very excited to graduate. It’s a little bittersweet, because I’ve lived in Cranford my whole life, and I’m excited to start a new chapter. After graduating, I’m planning to study political science at Yale. “Good luck to the graduates, and don’t let other people dictate what you do; do what you want to do,” he added. Salutatorian Samuel Sullivan felt simi-

Class President Olivia Merriman said she felt honored to lead the class. “It’s been an honor to be working with all my friends and trying to help everyone. It’s been a really great year, despite everything,” Merriman said on Tuesday, June 22. “I’m really excited to graduate. I’m so excited for the future. The past is over now, and it's time to move on. It’s hard, but we’re all excited. “My advice for the graduates would be just to work hard and live every day as if it’s your last. I’m going to Clemson University, and I’m going to be majoring in business administration.” “I’ve been in office for four years. We’re an all-female core graduating together, so it’s actually really special,” class Vice President Savannah Riera said on Tuesday, June 22. “Especially during COVID-19, we’ve lost a lot of our fundraisers, so we all had to rally together to get the job done, but I love it. I love being the communicator between my peers and the class.” In addition to being excited about graduating, Riera, who moved here in her freshman year, said that her parents were born and raised here and that it was Photo by Steve Ellmore meaningful to her to have a diploma from this school as well. Class of 2021 President Olivia “Next year, I’m going into the military, Merriman addresses her peers. so this is a stepping-stone to that, and I’m really excited,” she continued. “After larly about the transition. “I feel good. It’s a little bittersweet, but graduating, I’m going to the U.S. Coast I’m going to college really far away, and Guard Academy, starting July 12, and I’ll I’m kind of excited to start a new chapter,” be there for five years, and then I’ll graduSullivan said on Tuesday, June 22. “I ate as an officer in the Coast Guard. “Really take time to reflect on the peonever thought that I would get to be the salutatorian. I was very shocked on the ple that have been there for you, especialday that I got it, so it definitely feels really ly your families and your teachers,” added Riera. “Just take time to be together and good.… “After high school, I’m going to UCLA never forget the moments and the experifor political science,” he continued. ences you went through, and let’s all be “Remember to slow down. I feel like a lot successful in our own ways in the future. I of people go really fast, especially if thought about that the last day, walking they’re academically ambitious, but none through the high school.” of that really matters at the end of the day. “I’m really excited,” said Sophia MonSo just appreciate what is happening right tague, the secretary of her class, on Tuesnow.” See MEMORIAL, Page 2

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Photos by Steve Ellmore

Above left, Samuel Sullivan delivers the salutatory address. Above middle, Robert Kelly delivers the valedictory address. Above right are, from left, Alexandra Litterio, Giulliana Lebron, Nicholas

Librera, Brian Macchi and Robert Linder III at Cranford High School’s graduation ceremony at the school’s Memorial Field on Tuesday, June 22.

Memorial Stadium lights shine on CHS graduates (Continued from Page 1) day, June 22. “I’ve lived in Cranford my whole life, so this has been a long time coming. It’s weird that it's finally here, but I’m happy. I’m going to Xavier University and I’m majoring in nursing, and, hopefully, I’ll become a trauma nurse one day.” “It’s all a little sad, just because I’ve lived here since I was 3 years old. It’s bit-

tersweet,” said class treasurer Jamie Springer on Tuesday, June 22. “It feels good to be the treasurer of the class. I began sophomore year, and I’m really glad I did it and got involved in as much as I could, because, looking back, I definitely would have regretted it if I didn’t do a lot and get involved. I’m going to Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, and

I’m majoring in marketing.” When Superintendent of Schools Scott Rubin spoke at the graduation, he beamed with pride. “We’re celebrating the Class of 2021,” Rubin said on Tuesday, June 22. “We’re incredibly proud of all of our graduates. We’re always proud of our graduates, but, this year in particular, in light of COVID-

19, seeing the perseverance and the resilience of our students, they have a lot to be proud of and a lot to celebrate. We’re just happy to be there with them. “I know that they’re going to be incredibly successful, and I know that we are in great hands. Our future is in great hands,” he added. See graduation list, Page 13

Cranford Life — July 2021 — 3

Open Every Day from 11am to Midnight Photos Courtesy of Ellen McHenry

Mary Venditti, a founding trustee of the Hanson Park Conservancy who died in November, was honored by the trustees on Tuesday, May 18, with of an ‘October Glory’ red maple tree in a prominent spot in the park. Her husband, Mike Venditti, joined the trustees and expressed his gratitude that his wife was honored this way.

Founding trustee is honored by Hanson Park Conservancy The trustees of the Hanson Park Conservancy gathered in Hanson Park in Cranford on Tuesday, May 18, to honor Mary Venditti, a founding trustee, who died in November. HPC purchased an “October Glory” red maple tree and planted it in a prominent spot in the park. As a founding trustee, Venditti was an integral part of HPC. She served as the first corresponding secretary, Membership Committee chairperson, and Nominating and Bylaws Committee chairperson. In addition to HPC, Venditti served on the Cranford Board of Education for 18 years, most of them as president. Venditti was involved in various PTA and other community organizations. The trustees were joined by her husband, Mike Venditti, a staunch advocate for trees in Cranford, who served for many years on the Tree Advisory Board. He expressed his gratitude that HPC has honored his wife this way.

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Taste of Cranford has an appetite for success By EmilyAnn Jackman Staff Writer CRANFORD — At the second-ever Taste of Cranford on Tuesday, June 1, residents enjoyed live music at Eastman Plaza, courtesy of Garlic Rose Bistro, and thrilled to the “pay as you go, with sample-sized pricing” event, as 24 restaurants delighted the palates of many, thanks to the efforts of Downtown Cranford and Cranford Community Connection. “Downtown Cranford … is a township department whose objective is to promote, brand, beautify, maintain, attract and grow business in the ultimate objective of creating a thriving downtown community,” Downtown Cranford Director Caren Demyen said on Friday, June 4. “The Cranford Community Connection … is a collaborative group of Cranford residents working together to create townwide events and initiatives that foster a thriving Cranford community. Some of our marquee events are Pooch Plunge, Photos Courtesy of Michelle Stavrou Tuff Paddle and Porchfest.” Demyen said that residents taking part Above left, along with his staff, Bill Zavolas, the owner of Ambeli Greek Tavin the Taste of Cranford sampled small erna, located at 29 N. Union Ave. in Cranford, serves up keftedakia at Taste portions of food offered by participating of Cranford on Tuesday, June 1. Above right, Downtown Cranford Director restaurants. This let them try new foods Caren Demyen, Project Home board of directors President Lisa Orrico and and learn about Cranford’s small food Cranford Community Connection member Chrissa Stulpin represent the businesses, in the hopes that those busithree organizations that worked together on the Taste of Cranford. nesses would draw repeat customers, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic had participants purchase a bracelet for a nonprofit organization whose fundrais$5, which was donated to Project Home of ing dollars go solely to Cranford Family draws to a close. “To help our restaurants prepare, we Cranford,” Demyen said. “Project Home is Care. Since 1988, volunteers have

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fundraised to assist Cranford families who are in danger of losing their Cranford residences due to crisis situations. “There were two times to sign up: 5 to 7 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m.,” she continued. “This was to help make sure restaurants did not get too crowded. And we had live music from the Michael Craig Band at Eastman Plaza, courtesy of Garlic Rose Bistro.” Though the number of attendees wasn’t recorded at the first Taste of Cranford, which took place Sept. 16 of last year and featured 15 restaurants, Demyen said she’s sure it brought extra business for local restaurants. This time around, 400 participant bracelets were sold to residents and other guests. “Seventy-five percent was Cranford residents,” Demyen said. “I think the event brought a lot of foot traffic on a Tuesday evening to the downtown. I feel that it was a success. It's always great when different organizations can work together to support our business community, as well as help a local charity. “It was a beautiful day, and it was great to see so many people enjoying the downtown. I’m grateful to all of the businesses which participated and everyone who came out to support,” she added. Bill Zavolas, who owns Cranford’s Ambeli Greek Taverna along with his brother, Christos, said every time they See TASTE, Page 6

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Taste of Cranford draws hungry crowds from near and far (Continued from Page 4) participate in an event such as the Taste of Cranford, they see a significant increase in foot traffic. “For this event, we had an increase of 10 percent to 15 percent, but we feel what’s even more important is getting a chance to connect with the people walking around and being noticed by many that did not know about us,” said Zavolas on Sunday, June 6. “We served our traditional ‘keftedakia.’ These are bite-sized meatballs seasoned with Greek aromatic herbs, served over tzatziki and drizzled with EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) and lemon.” Zavolas said that, as a restaurant, they had been very fortunate throughout this difficult time. He said they had received tremendous support from their customers. Events such as the Taste of Cranford definitely help by bringing new faces into town to discover their restaurant. “We enjoy participating in all the events that the (Downtown Management Corp.) put together,” Zavolas said. “The Taste of Cranford allows guests to try a sample size of our food, and many of them return to experience more flavors from our menu. The success of these events is not only seen on the day of the event, but it has a ripple effect for future visits.” Ricot Jean Baptiste, the owner of Urban Burger, said there was about a 10 percent increase in sales at his restaurant

Photos Courtesy of Michelle Stavrou

Above left, a family sits in front of Urban Burger, located at 13 Eastman St. in Cranford, and enjoys the restaurant’s pulled pork sliders and fries as part of Taste of Cranford on Tuesday, June 1. Above right, two young women enjoy treats from Delice Macarons, which is at 19 Eastman St. in Cranford. on the day of the event. “But most importantly, the foot traffic and buzz of the area was great to see,” said

Jean Baptiste on Sunday, June 6. “We served pork sliders and fries for this particular event. We love to expand our menu

to introduce different flavors to our customers.” “We have been very fortunate to sustain the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,” he continued. “It’s because of the support of our customers, guests and community. The overall support and effort from the DMC to bring foot traffic through our town has been a tremendous advantage versus other surrounding towns. The event was a huge success, as it gives our downtown area the opportunity to gain new customers, while displaying the great variety of restaurants and businesses that we have in our community.” Cranford resident Marc Corello, the founder and owner of Garlic Bistro, said that his restaurant had a great flow of customers during the four-hour event. “We served a 4-ounce sliced filet mignon with a garlic sour cream horseradish sauce over arugula,” said Corello on Monday, June 7. “I feel, coming off the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Taste of Cranford event was a tremendous positive for this community. Just to see so many people out and about, trying different foods, listening to music and just laughing, it was a good time. “The Taste of Cranford is just one of many events that Cranford does,” he continued. “It shows how this small town embraces businesses and the community, and, in return, how this community embraces the great town of Cranford.”

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Cranford man is one of seven to take oath as advocate for children The most recent class of community members — seven volunteers representing six municipalities — have completed 30 hours of training to become advocates for CASA of Union County, a nonprofit organization advocating for the best interests of children in foster care. Sworn in as judiciary volunteers by Superior Court Judge James Hely via Zoom with newly named Judge Stacey Boretz looking on were Phil Newcomb, of Cranford; Jason Fermin, of Linden; Juliann Ford, of Roselle Park; Jayme Lipkin and Neetu Salhotra, of Short Hills; Amanda O’Dowd, of Summit; and Dawn Saunders, of Warren. Next, the new advocates will be matched to a foster youth or sibling set and, once legally assigned to their case by court order, can make arrangements to meet their assigned youth and begin their casework. This class ranges in age from 34 to 63 and includes both parents and nonparents, and those employed as well as retired. Experience includes teaching, law enforcement and homemaking. “It’s such a wonderful moment when these dedicated individuals, who have made the decision to become Court Appointed Special Advocates, face the judge as they did today, as the culmination of weeks of intensive training,” CASA of Union County Executive Director Mariel S. Hufnagel said. “Being a CASA volunteer is a tremendous commitment and, as these individuals raised their hand

and took their oaths, the pride and joy was palpable.” “I have volunteered my entire life and found my CASA work most rewarding because, although my CASA youth has aged out of the system, our friendship will be forever,” CASA board member Terry Gould, who serves as the advocate liaison, said. “It brings me great pleasure to see

him beat the odds. He is a survivor. These new advocates are ready to hit the ground running and I am beyond excited for them and the adventure ahead!” Since 2005, CASA of Union County has served more than 900 local foster youth and trained more than 600 advocates. With court-ordered access to the youth, foster parents, doctors, caseworkers, ther-

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IN MEMORIAM • CLAY – Donald A., of Cranford; June 1. Retired after working in management for Eastern Airlines, Continental Airlines, United Airlines. Widower, father, 78. • LOVALLO – Diane Josephine, of Little Egg Harbor and Naples, Fla. formerly of Cranford; May 31. Retail executive. Wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, 78. • MACKENZIE – Marilyn M., of Cranford; May 24. English as a Second Language translator and teacher. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, 87. • MCARTHUR – Robert William “Bob,” of Cranford, formerly of Scotland and Massachusetts; May 17. Husband, father, grandfather, step-grandfather, 93. • ONDISH – Dolores E., of Cranford, formerly of Plymouth, Pa., and Kenilworth; June 15. Seamstress at Logo Knits, Clark. Widow, mother, aunt, 89. • PATICCHIO – Susan, of Cranford, formerly of Brooklyn; June 7. Office clerk and office assistant. Widow, mother, grandmother, aunt, 101.

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.

STUDENT UPDATE SNHU dean’s list Cranford’s Ashley Cifrodello was named to the dean’s list at Southern New Hampshire University, located in Manchester, N.H., for the winter 2021 term. Full-time students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.5 to 3.699 are named to the dean’s list.

Scranton, Pa., in May. The following Cranford students graduated as members of the undergraduate Class of 2021: Aaron J. Cancio earned a Bachelor of Science in health administration and Daniel R. Vargas earned a Bachelor of Science in psychology.

Degree for Lampert

William Davis Lampert, of Cranford, earned a bachelor’s degree in political sciEmily E. Harvan, of Cranford, earned a ence from McDaniel College, located in Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Westminster, Md., on May 22. the University of Scranton, located in See STUDENT, Page 11

Degrees from Scranton

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

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STUDENT UPDATE (Continued from Page 10)

Wohlsen on dean’s list

Dean’s list at ESU Cranford’s Olivia Ruppel and Heaven Tines were named to the dean’s list at East Stroudsburg University, located in East Stroudsburg, Pa., for the spring 2021 semester. Students eligible for the dean’s list are those who have attained a quality-point average of 3.5 or better and are enrolled full-time.

Noah Wohlsen, of Cranford, was named to the dean’s list at Baldwin Wallace University, located in Berea, Ohio, for the spring 2021 semester. Wohlsen, a graduate of Cranford High School, is majoring in music theater. Any full-time student who achieves a grade-point average of at least 3.6 for 12 or more graded hours is placed on the dean’s list.

SPP graduates seniors

Degree from Charleston

Saint Peter’s Preparatory School, located in Jersey City, celebrated its 143rd commencement on May 19. Of the 226 graduates, these Cranford residents were recognized: Andre Carcamo, who will attend Pennsylvania State University; Patrick O’Shea, who will attend Saint Peter’s University; John Scheurer, who won a Scholar Athlete Award, graduated cum laude and will attend Siena College; and Michael Scheurer, who will attend Siena College.

The College of Charleston, in South Carolina, recently awarded undergraduate and graduate degrees during spring 2021 commencement ceremonies. Isabel Gray, of Cranford, earned a Bachelor of Arts in communication.

Degree from Centenary Centenary University, in Hackettstown, awarded degrees to 430 graduates at its 146th commencement. Cranford’s Tessa Ferentinos earned a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice.

Success for Demarino Anthony Joseph Demarino, of Cranford, was named to the dean’s list at Kutztown University, located in Kutztown, Pa., for the spring 2021 semester. To be eligible for the dean’s list, an undergraduate student must be registered for at least 12 credits and have a minimum grade-point average of 3.6.

High honors for Walton Cranford’s Roy James Walton earned a Bachelor of Arts in anthropology and Slavic studies from Connecticut College, located in New London, Conn., on May 23. Walton was also named to the dean’s list with high honors for the spring 2021

semester. To earn high honors, a student must earn a grade-point average of at least 3.84.

Lampert excels William Lampert, of Cranford, was named to the dean’s list with highest honors at McDaniel College, located in Westminster, Md., for the spring 2021 semester. Highest honors are earned for a semester grade-point average of 3.9 or higher.

Locals earn degrees, honors Cranford residents Sarah Roberts and Karina Vizzoni earned a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science respectively from the College of William & Mary, located in Williamsburg, Va., as members of the Class of 2021. Additionally, Roberts and Vizzoni were named to the dean’s list for the spring 2021 semester. In order to achieve dean’s list status, a full-time degree seeking undergraduate student must take at least 12 credit hours and earn a quality-point average of at least 3.6 during the semester.

DeBole excels at UVM Cranford’s Emma DeBole was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont, located in Burlington, Vt., for the spring 2021 semester. To be named to the dean’s list, stu-

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Onisko on president’s list Paulina Onisko, of Cranford, was named to the president’s list at James Madison University, located in Harrisonburg, Va., for the spring 2021 semester. Onisko is majoring in biotechnology. Students who earn president’s list honors must carry at least 12 graded credit hours and earn a grade-point average of 3.9 or better.

Dickinson graduates Cranford’s Mikayla Herz, a graduate of Cranford High School, earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Dickinson College, located in Carlisle, Pa., in May.

JMU graduates Olivia Klimko, of Cranford, graduated with distinction with a degree in management from James Madison University, located in Harrisonburg, Va., during the May 2021 commencement exercises. Additionally, Jillian DeVoti, also of Cranford, graduated with a degree in marketing.

Honors at CCU Austin Williams, a management major from Cranford, was named to the presiSee STUDENT, Page 12

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STUDENT UPDATE (Continued from Page 11) dent’s list at Coastal Carolina University, located in Conway, S.C., for the spring 2021 semester. Students who made the president’s list achieved a perfect grade-point average of 4.0 for the semester.

Garbarini makes dean’s list Dana Garbarini, of Cranford, was named to the dean’s list at Dean College, located in Franklin, Mass., for the spring 2021 semester.

Degrees from Quinnipiac The following Cranford students received degrees from Quinnipiac University, located in Hamden, Conn., during commencement ceremonies held in May: Dana Acocella received a Bachelor of Science in nursing; Jessica Brown received a Bachelor of Science in nursing; Katelyn Normann received a Bachelor of Science in health science; and Anthony Patella received a Bachelor of Science in accounting.

LIFE CYCLE

Technology, located in Atlanta, Ga., for the spring 2021 semester. This designation is awarded to undergraduate students who have earned an academic average of 3.0 or better for the semester.

Misericordia honors Mary Johnstone, of Cranford, was named to the dean’s list at Misericordia University, located in Dallas, Pa., for the spring 2021 semester. Students at Misericordia University qualify for the dean’s list with a gradepoint average of 3.55 or better.

Taking names at URI

The following Cranford students were recently named to the dean’s list at the University of Rhode Island, located in Kingston, R.I., for the spring 2021 semester: Paige Brogan, Alexa Cafiso, Chloe Carracino, Caitlin Chiodo, Peter Coates, Lily Collyer, Colleen Gosselin, Lily Gudoski, Juliana Marcotrigiano and Jennifer Newport. To be included on the dean’s list, fullAcclaim at Moravian Cranford’s Victoria Dalli, Lauren Gros- time students must have completed 12 or smith and Rose Michetti were named to more credits for letter grades and achieve the dean’s honor list at Moravian College, a quality-point average of at least 3.3. located in Bethlehem, Pa., for the spring 2021 semester. Accomplishments in Boston Students who carry three or more Northeastern University, located in course units during the term and attain a Boston, Mass., recently named the followterm grade-point average of 3.5 or better ing Cranford students to the dean’s list for are placed on the dean’s honor list. the spring 2021 semester: Julia Lachenauer and Matthew Baldowski. To achieve the dean’s list distinction, Dean’s list at RWU Parker Schwartz, of Cranford, was students must carry a full program of at named to the dean’s list at Roger Williams least four courses, have a quality-point University, located in Bristol, R.I., for the average of 3.5 or greater out of a possible 4.0 and carry no single grade lower than a spring 2021 semester. Full-time students who complete 12 or C- during the course of their college more credits per semester and earn a career. grade-point average of 3.4 or better are placed on the dean’s list that semester. 4.0 for Devenny The University of Alabama, located in Tuscaloosa, Ala., named Henry Devenny, Great grades from Brown Kylie Brown, of Cranford, was named of Cranford, to the president’s list for the to the dean’s list at the Georgia Institute of spring 2021 semester.

Photo Courtesy of Barbara Niro

EVERLASTING LOVE — Leonard and Barbara Niro, of Cranford, are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Alexa Morgan Niro, to Sean Edward Hector, son of Edward and Betty Hector, of West Orange. The bride-to-be is a graduate of Georgian Court University and is employed by the Franklin Township Board of Education as an elementary school teacher. The groom-to-be is a graduate of Kean University and a fourth-generation firefighter employed by the West Orange Fire Department. A May 2022 wedding is planned in Manchester, Vt.

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Cranford Life — July 2021 — 13

Cranford High School graduates the Class of 2021 The Cranford High School Class of 2021 received their diplomas on June 22 at Memorial Field: Hannah Marie Adcock Joseph Giovanni Agnone Abbigail Joan Ahern Angelina Marie Albanese Myles Scott Almonte Randy Amoa Lindsay Elizabeth Anderson Karena Rebekka Andreassen Michael Anthony Anzalone Nathaniel C. Atwan Daniel Joshua Balkan Andrew Scott Baur Amanda Marie Beckley Clint Jason Belliot Joel Pablo Beltran Casey Ann Benderoth Patrick John Benderoth Brianna Grace Benes Shannon Margaret Berry Delaney Paige Bertrand Daniella Anne Beshar Hailee Theresa Bissell Emily Taylor Bornstad Sophia Marie Boxwell Katharine Victoria Bracke Sean Daniel Bradford

Photos by Steve Ellmore

Above left are, from left, Michael Skalski, Nolan Spurr, Robert Salvatore, Aidan Riley and Matthew St. George at Cranford High School’s graduation on Tuesday, June 22. Above right are, from left, Sophia Tolomeo, Ariana Sorkin and Gabriela Tabback. Isabella Rose Brandi Harrison Whitney Brown Kimberly Bryam Christina Cecelia Budsock Andrew C. Buontempo Erin Rose Burke Hunter Roes Burke Zachary Joseph Burkle Rileigh Lynn Burns Caroline Marie Bush Caroline Elizabeth Caccavale

Nathan Joseph Caldwell Layla Campbell Kimberly Marie Capozzoli Erin Riley Caputo Paige Antoinette Carbone Joseph Robert Carrea Matthew Carrico Zachary Gray Carter Jack Louis Cartnick Gabrielle Faith Castellano Aidan Joseph Ceravolo

Jacob Charles Cermak Jacob Jeffrey Chapman Annabelle Leia Chen Matthew William Coates Valery Cobo-Castro Joseph Paul Colello Jr. Matthew Alexander Coleman Kaitlyn Anne Collins Diego Andres Colon John Christopher Connolly Sydney Jean Connors Kylie Zoe Contreras Mary Josephine James Conway Isabella Josefina Costello Sinead Ellen Cumiskey Liam Cunningham Alexa Brooke Curren Diar Dautaga Sean Patrick Degroat Ryan Bruce Delong Daniel Joseph Demarco Dennis James Demarino Alexander John Demartino Aaron Aivaras Derasmo Carina Desimone Jack Christopher Desimone Luke Mcmahon Digiovanni Kathryn Anne Dolan Ryan Timothy Dooley See CLASS, Page 14

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Class of 2021 says farewell to Cranford High School (Continued from Page 13) Griffin Michael Dowd Shea Elizabeth Dreyer Rachael Lynn Durant Daniel William Durniak River Sherif Elbayar Ari Yitzchak Eskinazi Erin Canning Esposito Isabella Estrella Dominic Gerard Fallone Iker D. Farez Colin Alexander Farley Patrick Thomas Feeney Raquel Gelbaum Ferreira Kurt Paul Fiebiger Leah Nicole Filimonczuk Liam Ryan Fitzpatrick Amari Christopher Folk Ryan Galligan Margaret Mary Garcia Morrigan Margaret Gardiner Giulia Elizabeth Gebert Harrison James Gilmartin James Patrick Gluck Andrew Ryan Goldfeder Alyssa Gomez Kelly Isabella Gonzalez Lena Amelie Graven Daniel Paul Graziano Josephine Lorraine Gunther Dane Nicholas Hagstrom Amber Marissa Haley Tyler James Hamblin Maeve Anne Hanlon Sarah Lucille Harvan Chloe Elizabeth Hasbrouck

Photo by Steve Ellmore

Gretchen Lenehan, left, and Daphne Morrissey prepare to graduate from Cranford High School on Tuesday, June 22. Devin William Haughey Mackenna Grace Heesters Morgan Ruth Heim Luke Matthew Hofmann Nina Julia Hollanek Maya Eva Hollanek Lindsay Anne Hooey Christian William Hulse Joshua Paschal Hunt Luke Samid Infante Daniel G. Iosso Lasairfhiona H. Iosso Sarah Grace Iredell Troy William Isaksen Jr.

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Ahmed Ashraf Ismaeil Carly Rose Itzel Natalie Elizabeth Itzel Marcus James Johnson Jaden C. Johnson-feggans Gavin Richard Jones Alexa Katherine Joy Max Kapetanakis Erin Ives Keady Carolyn Ann Kealey Ashley Jordan Keene Tyler Grant Keirstead Robert Joseph Kelly Siobhan Genevieve Kelly Kevin Francis Keogh Jasonah King-James Daniel Joseph Klimko Noah G. Kopla Cerlie Joy Koundakjian Sheila Omri Krispin Natalia Annemarie Kruk Adam George Kutzer James Anthony Lacorazza Nicholas Wyman De Lai Lage Cassandra Gabrielle Lamastra Chloe Elizabeth Lasalle Pauline Ledorze Jack R. Leahy Giulliana Faith Lebron Nicholas James Librera Robert William Linder III Alexandra Frances Litterio Christopher James Locastro Christopher Hopkins Logiudice Michael Colin Logue Abigail Grace Lore Julia Peyton Love Kayla Rose Lugo Garrett Thomas Lynch Kristina Lucia Lynch Brian Cummings Macchi Michael Daniel Magana Matthew James Maggio Tushar Maini Lara Maryse Maisonneuve Brienna Flordeliza Malamug Christopher H. Mancheno Ava Rose Manfra Erin Anne Bernadette Manning Michael Joseph Mannix Genevieve Marie Marchesi Matthew David Marino Peter Louis Marino Amilia Rose Markase Quinn Daniel Maroney Elijah Paul Marsh Hannah Elizabeth Marsh Sarah Elizabeth Martin Christopher Joseph Martino Noureldin Mohamed Loutfi Mashal Madison Marguerite Massa Cameron Daly Matheson Savannah Rose Matlosz Alexa Jayee Mazura Elizabeth Mary McCaffery Shane David McGowan Aidan Patrick McMullan Robert James McNamara Jr. Olivia Kate Merriman Danielle Marie Messina Erin Miklencic Syra Rose Molino

Sophia Rose Montague Maximo Montero Franchesca D’Sirre Morales Gabriella Rose Moreno Philip Joseph Morin IV Lara Marie Mormelo Santiago Munoz Charbel George Namroud Aaron Elvis Nataline Amanda Marie Newport Daniel Ryan Nicholas John Brian Niemsyk Anthony James Noce Patrick Aidan Noce Joshua Taylor Nudelman Robert Stephen O’Brien Timothy Michael O’Donovan Molly Ann Shields O’Shea Ryan Matthew Oliveira Leonardo Vicente Pacheco Jordan Marie Panno Sophia Rose Pardal Ethan Lee Parish Luc Andrew Perreault Arjun Alexander-Paul Petgrave Kara Rose Piatkowski Kayleigh Nicholas Pierce Nicole Michele Pietrucha Dominic M. Pinto Meghan Grace Pitts Evan James Poland Allen Stephen Potts II Daniel James Quinones Kathleen Ann Quinones Samuel Francis Quinutolo Sophie Noelle Quisenberry Nina Ruth Randazzo Joseph Matthew Ravelo Brendan Michael Reilly Abigail Marina Reynoso Savannah Marie Riera Aidan Michael Riley Anthony Paul Risko Yasir Omar Curtis Rivera Nicolas Octavio Rodriguez Peter Matthew Roefaro Samantha Vitale Romito Lee Joshua Rosenthal Ryan Scott Rosenthal Kristof Domovsky Roth Sean Robert Ruple John Daniel Russo Robert Vincent Salvatore Jr. Joseph Matthew Santoro Christian Francesco Savastano Dominic Anthony Savinelli Kathryn Angela Scheremeta Olivia Rose Schindler Chelsie Nicole Schweikardt Lucas Benjamin Simpson Michael Edward Skalski Daniel Kenneth Skelton Jacqueline Elizabeth Smith Jewel Summer Sobocinski Christopher Glenn Sorge Ariana Rachel Sorkin Shannon Rose Specht Jamie Nadine Springer Nolan Howard Spurr Matthew Richard St. George Joseph Andrew Stanley See CRANFORD, Page 15

Cranford Life — July 2021 — 15

Cranford HS graduates honored for accomplishments (Continued from Page 14) Anthony Joseph Stevens Robert Ambrose Stevens Matthew James Stickles Carly Frances Stopielo Samuel Mark Sullivan Lauren Michelle Swandrak Aimee Lynn Swisher Emma Caroline Szark Kaylee Margaret Szekeres Flora Inez Szenasi Gabriela Elaine Tabback Leo Christopher Tallon

Elena Antonia Tantillo Kelly Grace Taylor Sebastian K. Teasdale Jabarie Basheer Thomas-Nagil Deirdre Noreen Tighe Maya Katharine Tobolewski Elisabeth Marie Toddings Aaron A. Tolomeo Sophia S. Tolomeo Julianna Rose Tona Mason Dorann Towery Andrew Colin Towne Thomas John Treboschi

Kai Louis Trombley Patrick Jeremiah Tuohy Caitlin Elizabeth Turner Lindsey Grace Twaskas Amanda Karen Vath Jessica Alexandra Vega Tyler Jonathan Vernick Michael Joseph Vetter Jeremiah Tai’von Vincent Gianni Xavier Vivas Alex Valentin Volquez Alyssa Gail Waiser Shane Mitchell Waleski

Liam Patrick Walsh Catherine Renee Walter Amber Lynette Walters Christian Russell Wilde Derek Alexander Williams Kirsten Britt Williams Grace Majewicz Wilson Kate Delaney Wilson Jake Patrick Winn Mairéad Grace Young Mateusz Tadeusz Zaremba Nicholas Christopher Zingaro Iven Zuo

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Cranford Knights of Columbus presents 20 scholarships On Wednesday, June 9, at St. Michael’s Church, the Cranford Knights of Columbus presented scholarships to 20 high school students. William Kennedy received the Monsignor Louis Fimiani Memorial Award, John Scheurer received the Christine Bagniewski Memorial Award and Robert McNamara received the Irene Shackell Memorial Award. The other scholarship winners are Sinead Comiskey, Rachel Durant, Deidre Tighe, Devin Haughey, Michael Scheurer, Genevieve Marchesi, Erin Miklencic, Isabella Zissler, Margaret Garcia, Patrick O’Shea, Casey Benederoth, Lindsay Geschickter, Jack Cartnick, Amanda Beckley, Kayleigh Pierce, Danielle Messina and Molly O’Shea. This year, the council distributed more than $13,000 in scholarship monies. Pictured are the recipients with Monsignor Tim Shugrue of St. Michael’s Church, and the Scholarship Committee, with the exception of Kayleigh Pierce. The council thanked the Scholarship Committee and Chairperson Ed Bagniewski for a job well done, as there were a record number of applicants this year. Founded in 1970, the Cranford Knights of Columbus is a Catholic Men's Fraternal Organization dedicated to four core principles: charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism. The Cranford Council supports many worthy charities and civic causes locally, statewide and nationally. For information about joining the Cranford Council, contact Grand Knight Jerry Conheeney at 908-416-3464 or visit www.cranfordknights.org.

Photo Courtesy of John J. Doolan

The Cranford Knights of Columbus presented scholarships to 20 high school students on Wednesday, June 9, at St. Michael’s Church. This year, the council distributed more than $13,000 in scholarship monies. Pictured are the recipients with Monsignor Tim Shugrue of St. Michael’s Church and the Scholarship Committee, with the exception of Kayleigh Pierce.

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