Cranford Life - September 2023

CRANFORDLIFE

Police win Valor Award

Cranford TV 35’s studio manager retires after being there since 1986

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent

Ed Davenport’s last day at Cranford’s TV 35 was Monday, July 31. “Aug. 1, I’m done,” he said. “It’s the first time in my life I never had a plan.”

— See Page 3 Golfer vies

at nationals

Davenport began volunteering for Cranford’s local cable access channel in 1986. The station that now reaches more than 350,000 viewers in Cranford and nine neighboring towns on Comcast was just a public education and governmental access show back then.

“It was pretty rough in the beginning,” Davenport said. “It was a very small operation. We’ve come a long way.”

Davenport, who had been living in Cranford since 1978, decided to volunteer for the station because he felt it was a way that he could pay something back to the town for giving him a great place to live. While Davenport was in service, he traveled all over the world. He said, “I lived in Taiwan. I lived in Japan. All over the place. I never had a hometown before.”

But it was joining the Army that prepared Davenport for his career at TV 35. “In 1963, I went into the Army and took some tests to see what I was good at,” he said. “I found out I had high scores in electronics. I was guaranteed that I’d be in electronics if I went in the service. Little did I know it would lead me to Vietnam.”

— See Page 14

Team tries to keep winning

— See Page 18

After his time in service, Davenport attended Rutgers at night — beginning in Newark, then transferring to New Brunswick — and got a degree in management and marketing. He graduated from Rutgers in 1973 and was hired by Hoffmann-La Roche in Nutley two months later. He ended up as manager of corporate communications.

While working at Hoffmann-La Roche during the day, Davenport worked evenings at TV 35 three or four nights a week. Then, in 1993, he started his own company doing repair work on video equipment for schools. When TV 35 began paying him per diem, he dropped his company. He worked at both Hoffmann-La Roche and TV 35 until 2010, when he left Hoffman-LaRoche.

“On a Friday, I left (Hoffmann-La) Roche, and on a Sunday started working here,” he said.

For those who would like to work as a studio manager, Davenport advises, “You have to love it. You have to love taking pictures and making things from nothing. You’re always showing your heart. When you edit things, if you make a mistake, you redo. You don’t let mistakes go. You have to be able to put the time in. It’s not a 9 to 5 job. I come at 8:30 in the morning and sometimes don’t leave until midnight.”

Because Davenport stayed at the station for so long, he feels

he gets a lot of attention, but wants it known that he loved working at TV 35 and “it was always a team.” And what he loved most was working with “the kids.”

While there is no set strategy, Davenport said, “I’m sure something will pop up. I’ll drop by and take a look at things.” In the meantime, he enjoys hanging out in the backyard with his wife and 2-year-old puppy.

For more information on TV 35, visit: https://www.cranfordnj.org/tv-35.

Photo Courtesy of Ed Davenport Ed Davenport retired as Cranford TV 35’s studio manager on Monday, July 31, after working there since 1986.

Residents being sought to train as advocates for victims of sexual violence

The Union County Board of County Commissioners announced it is seeking residents who want to apply to volunteer with the Union County Rape Crisis Center. Volunteers at the Rape Crisis Center provide guidance and support for victims of sexual violence.

“We are seeking compassionate individuals in Union County who are willing to volunteer their time and support survivors of sexual violence through the Union County Rape Crisis Center,” said Commissioner Chairperson Sergio Granados.

“Our dedicated volunteers provide crucial guidance and empathy to those in need, offering vital support during a difficult time, where the victim might not have anywhere else to turn.

“Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of survivors and foster a community that stands against sexual violence.”

The fall training dates will take place from Tuesday, Sept. 12, to Thursday, Nov. 2, subject to change, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Bilingual volunteers are also welcomed and encouraged to register.

While no previous experience in counseling is required, all those interested must:

• be a Union County resident;

• be at least 18 years of age;

• have a personal mode of transportation, i.e. a car;

• have a valid driver’s license;

• undergo a personal interview; and

• participate in a 40 or more hour, state-mandated training program.

Once trained, Rape Crisis Center volunteers answer calls to the Rape Crisis Center hotline as certified confidential sexual violence advocates.

They also provide medical or legal guidance in person by accompanying victims at hospitals, police departments, courtrooms, and other locations related to the aftermath of sexual violence.

Training sessions are at the Rape Crisis Center offices, located in the Colleen Fraser Building at the Union County complex, 300 North Ave. E., Westfield.

The Rape Crisis Center is a program of the Union County Department of Human Services, Division of Individual and Family Support Services and has been serving Union County residents since 1984.

All volunteers are trained, mentored, and supported by professional Union County staff.

If interested and for more information about the volunteer experience, contact the Union County Rape Crisis Center at 908-233-7273 or via email at rcc@ucnj.org.

NJSACOP announces Cranford police as winner of annual Valor Award

The New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police has announced that three Cranford police officers have won the 2023 Valor Award, which recognizes New Jersey police officers each year who demonstrate exceptional heroism in protecting and serving the public.

The award this year included 11 nominees, as police chiefs from across the state submitted police reports that highlighted superb policing. The winners are a trio of Cranford police officers: Officer Michael Gamba, Officer Nicholas Cook, and Sgt. Steven D’Ambola, who responded to a domestic violence call last spring at a senior housing residence.

A Union Township man had threatened a woman at the senior housing complex near Meeker Avenue and Heinrich Street. He had pointed a firearm and said he would kill her, himself and anyone who interceded.

By the time police arrived, the suspect had fled the scene and police were concerned the armed man might harm someone. Gamba, D’Ambola, and Cook began looking for him in the suburban neighborhood.

They encountered the suspect on a nearby Cranford street. As they approached, the suspect reached into his waistband. Gamba saw the grip of his handgun and grabbed it.

Police said the suspect was carrying a “ghost gun” — a firearm made from parts purchased online or 3D printed and assembled at home, rendering them untraceable.

As Gamba wrestled with the suspect, he kept the gun pointed away from his colleagues and bystanders. D’Ambola and Cook jumped to his immediate aid, tackling the suspect.

The suspect was charged with weapons possession, making terroristic threats, and aggravated assault with a firearm, but took a plea deal for weapons possession and is now serving a five-year sentence, court records show.

From left are Police Officer Michael Gamba, Police Officer Nicholas Cook, and Sgt. Steven D’Ambola, the trio of Cranford police officers who responded to a domestic violence call last spring at a senior housing residence. For their actions, the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police announced this month that these three officers won the 2023 Valor Award, which recognizes New Jersey police officers each year who demonstrate exceptional heroism in protecting and serving the public.

Photo Courtesy of Jonathan Jaffe

Children’s Room of Cranford Library is

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent

Parents and their children love the Cranford Public Library. It’s a delightful place, but the Children’s Room is a bit crowded, especially when parents come with strollers. Aside from space being tight, shelving is very high and the little ones can’t reach those books and have the hands-on experience they desire.

The last time the library was renovated was in 2002, including the Children’s Room and an adult area on the second floor. The library has been applying for grants since 2015 to expand.

Kathryn Cannarozzi, the library director since May 1 of this year, said they finally have the funding to expand the Children’s Room. She thanked Mayor Brian Andrews, Sen. Nicholas Scutari and Union County Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, who all worked together to get $2 million in funding from the state.

Cannarozzi said that nothing physical will happen until 2024, but the planning is starting now and they are talking to architects. She’s excited because the Children’s Library has so much to offer and, currently, they have to limit events and limit the number of program attendees.

“We’d like to lift those restrictions,” she said. “We’d love to have it (the Children’s Library) open to everyone. Children visiting from out of town, I’d hate to say ‘no’ to anyone.”

When the library is renovated, Cannarozzi said they will expand on what they have and that the possibilities are endless.

Current children’s events include reading to a dog; children’s crafts; music events, including cultural music; summer reading challenges; and learning to use a computer.

While Cannarozzi is not the children’s librarian, she believes story time is the biggest thing. She said, “Our story times are wonderful. There are puppets. They’ll go out to the park in good weather. Parents will come with blankets and sit on the grass. The kids love it. Parents love it. You

watch the toddlers running around, making friends. It’s the most beautiful thing in the world. There are tons of things for toddlers to do.”

But parents always ask for more. “They say, ‘Can’t you do this? Can’t you have more computers?’” said Cannarozzi. “We don’t have room. We’re so cramped.”

With renovations, it can all happen. “We have a cute learning center computer,” said Cannarozzi. “It has a touch screen and a color keyboard. We’d like more room for items like that.”

As of now, Cannarozzi isn’t sure how long the renovations would take. Nor is

in 2024

she sure where the Children’s Room patrons will go when the renovations are happening. Or where they will move the children’s items. “We will decide,” she said. “We have time and will be prepared. I’d ask the mayor if there’s available space we’d be able to use; empty storefronts, temporary trailers or a school space in the summer. There’s a lot of possibilities. We’ll all be surprised when we find a place we can end up in.”

For more information regarding the Children’s Room at the Cranford Public Library, visit www.cranfordlibrary.org/ childrens.php.

Photos Courtesy of Kathryn Cannarozzi

UC of UC hosts inaugural Business Pitch Competition

Union College of Union County hosted its first Business Pitch Competition at the college’s Cranford campus. More than 20 Union students submitted a business proposal for the competition, with 11 accepted to enter the main competition and pitch to the five judges.

All Union students were welcomed to participate in the Pitch Competition. To qualify, students were required to attend workshops across an eight-week period. Students who attended at least 75% of the workshops received a stipend and a laptop.

After students submitted proposals, a panel of faculty and academic specialists at Union reviewed the submissions and decided who would move on in the Pitch Competition. Eleven students were selected and pitched to the panel of five judges who work in the business industry. The judges included: Denise Fernandes, director of Women Economic Forum for New Jersey 2023 and a member of White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity Excellence and Economic Opportunity for Hispanics; Andrew Hurdle, senior product portfolio manager at Ansell Healthcare; Muhammad Khan, principal examiner with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority; F. Jim Della Sala, senior vice president for Investors Bank and Union County College Foundation Board member; and Rory Wilson, executive relationship manager at Discover. Judging criteria included the pitch’s economic potential, clear description and explanation of the business idea, the potential to attract investors, and more.

Nicholas Mont came out on top, winning first-place and a $6,000 prize to advance his business concept. Mont’s winning pitch addressed the issue of food waste. His proposal was to dehydrate

unused food to feed those in need with highly nutritious food. The slogan for his concept was, “dehydrated food is healthy, delicious and a sustainable solution to end world hunger.” Union’s Bloomberg Business Club President Anais Santacruz earned a second-place finish and received $4,000 for her idea of FleaCycle, which focused on recycled fashion. Tyler Farrar earned a third-place finish and received $2,000 for his pitch to empower and financially educate youth worldwide with his concept of “money on the way.” Fund-

ing for this opportunity was provided by the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief Fund grant: Opportunity Meets Innovation Challenge, which cultivates innovation, research and talent.

“We are proud of these creative students who took the time to develop their business ideas. We are also grateful to receive an OMIC grant to further our student’s entrepreneurial dreams. Giving our students the opportunity to develop their businesses and receive feedback from real working professionals is something they

can take with them as they continue to pursue their goals,” stated Union’s president, Margaret M. McMenamin.

The Pitch Competition was spearheaded by Donovan Smalls, Union’s director of the Business Center. The Business Center, which features Bloomberg Terminals, benefits students majoring in business, business management, business marketing, accounting, supply chain management, blockchain, esports, sport management and hotel, restaurant and tourism management.

Cranford receives state grant for new rain garden at recreation facility

On Tuesday, June 13, New Jersey Commissioner for Environmental Protection Shawn LaTourette announced Cranford would receive funding to install a new rain garden at the recently opened 375 Centennial Ave. recreation facility. The award is part of the state's Stormwater Assistant Grant Program, which supports concerted investments in water infrastructure projects that will reduce flooding threats, create jobs, protect public health and enhance the health of the state’s waterways across the state.

“This innovative Stormwater Assistance Grant Program is funding projects in all corners of the state that will mitigate flooding and improve the ecological health of our waterways,” LaTourette said. “We are proud to provide our communities with the resources to make them safer, healthier and more resilient."

"As a flood prone community, Cranford is advancing an ‘All of the Above’ flood mitigation strategy,” said Cranford Mayor Brian Andrews. “We greatly appreciate support from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, on large projects like the Army Corps of Engineers work on Rahway River regional solutions, to smaller but meaningful projects like this

rain garden. Thank you to the Cranford Environmental Commission for leading on this important initiative."

“I'm excited to see this project move forward and along with planned tree plantings in the area,” said Cranford Township Commissioner Terrance Curran. “This will not only beautify Centennial Avenue but also help mitigate flooding. Thank you to the Environmental Commission, Jaycees and state DEP for their support.”

“The Cranford Environmental Commission is grateful to receive this grant from the state as we continue to explore innovative solutions to address flooding and water quality within Cranford,” said CEC Chairperson Jason Stevens. “We also thank the many dedicated volunteers on the CEC who conceived this project and for the support and funding we received for this project from local organizations, including the Cranford Jaycees, the Green and Clean team, and the Cranford Library. We hope this project will inspire residents to consider rain gardens on their property as a means of crowd-sourcing flood control through small, low cost projects.”

Stormwater management has been adopted as the

primary goal of the CEC for 2022 and 2023 in the wake of Hurricane Ida. The project will address stormwater, flood control and water quality in Cranford, while serving as a model for Cranford residents and the residents of adjacent and nearby towns that travel to this site for sports events. The site is of specific interest as the property adjoins a brook that flows directly into the Rahway river, which is approximately 1,200 feet away. Thus, all the stormwater from this property ends up in the Rahway River.

The Recreation Center is a large building, with a nearly 22,000 square-foot roof. The installation of a 600 square-foot 8-inch deep rain garden at one of the four downspouts at the front of the complex will treat and detain approximately 2,000 gallons of stormwater per inch of rainfall. In addition, this project will provide an opportunity for community and student education through involvement in the planning and installation.

In addition to $4,741 from New Jersey State Grant funding, this project is financially supported by the CEC and the Cranford Jaycees, both contributing $500.

Photo Courtesy of Margaret M. Ortuso

New supervisor of fine and performing arts chosen by Cranford BOE

The Cranford Board of Education has announced Anthony Good is the new supervisor of fine and performing arts. Good was selected after an extensive search process, which included multiple interviews with the selection committee; reviews of work samples; and a very thorough reference check.

Good has spent the last 12 years as a band director at the elementary, middle and high school levels. He has 18 years experience as a professional musician and has been the director of the New York

Giants Drumline with BD Entertainment for the last eight NFL seasons. Good said he looks forward to drawing from these rich career experiences and connections to bring only the best to Cranford students, staff, and the greater Cranford community.

Good earned his master’s degree in educational leadership at William Paterson University in Wayne. He earned his bachelor’s degree in music education at Lebanon Valley College in Annville, Pa., and was a quarterfinalist for the Grammy

Music Educator Award in 2014.

Good said he is thrilled to be named the new fine and performing arts supervisor for the Cranford Public School Dis-

trict, adding he is eager to collaborate with staff, students, parents, and community members to continue the cultivation of artistic literacy in the district.

CHS Class of 1983 to host reunion

Cranford High School Class of 1983 will host its 40th class reunion on Saturday Sept. 30, at 6:30 p.m., at the Elks Lodge, 951 Lincoln Ave E, Cranford 07016. There will be a band, open bar and appetizers only.

For more information, contact the 40th reunion committee at cranfordclassof1983@gmail.com.

Cranford Public School District names new director of Human Resources

The Cranford Board of Education has announced that Michael Callahan is the new director of Human Resources. His official start date is July 24.

Callahan was selected after an extensive search process, which included multiple interviews with the selection committee and a thorough reference check.

Callahan, who began his career with the Somerville Public Schools in 2003 as a teacher and team leader, currently oversees a staff of more than 1,000 as director of Human Resources for the Hillsborough Township Public Schools. Prior to that tenure, he served the Hillsborough Township Public Schools as a district supervi-

Membership campaign has commenced for Hanson Park Conservancy in 2023

The 2023 membership campaign for Hanson Park Conservancy has commenced. Hanson Park Conservancy is a non-profit organization begun in 2004 by a group of Cranford Citizens to support efforts to upgrade and maintain Hanson Park and to provide guidance and support to the preservation of the Cranford Canoe Club building, the last remaining Canoe Club.

The conservancy continues to provide ongoing maintenance of the park. It has successfully partnered with schools, local community groups and others to provide financial and volunteer support for the park. Through the Jan Lilien Education Fund, made possible by donations in memory of the late Jan LiIien of Cran-

ford, it will provide educational programs on sustainability and environmental awareness.

The conservancy hosts the annual Rubber Duck Race each year and is a co-sponsor of the annual Pumpkin Carve Out with Jersey Central Art Studio and the Cranford Jaycees.

sor. Callahan said, “Thank you for your warm welcome. As a proud, lifelong New Jersey resident, I am elated to serve the wonderful community of Cranford.”

Callahan has a bachelor’s degree from

the University of Rochester - Eastman School of Music and a master’s degree in educational administration from Caldwell University. Additionally, he is pursuing doctoral studies at Saint Elizabeth University.

IN MEMORIAM

• BERNER – John T., of Pompton Plains, formerly of Cranford and North Arlington; Aug. 15. WWII Army vet, accountant, great-grandfather, 99.

• BOWMAN – Marjorie P., of Summerville, S.C., formerly of Cranford; July 24. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 90.

• EGENTON-BILLIAS – Gisela, of Cranford, formerly of Germany, Ireland, New York City and Plainfield; July 26. Widow, mother, grandmother, 83.

• LEIFER – Dr. Jonas R., of Cranford; July 6. Husband, father, brother, grandfather, 88.

• STERN – Esther R., of Monroe Township, formerly of Maplewood, Cranford; July 22. Salesperson, Sealfons children’s store. Wife, mother, grandmother, 87.

• VENTURA – Joan Delores, of Jackson, formerly of Cranford, Mountainside; July 30. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 90.

• WILLIAMS-SHUKER – Kimberly L., of O’hara Township, Pa., formerly of Cranford; July 23. Senior analyst. Wife, mother, sister, aunt, 52.

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.

A 2023 membership form can be found on the conservancy’s website at hansonparkconservancy.com.

Union County Child Seat Inspection Program is available for residents

The Union County Board of County Commissioners would like to remind its residents of our ongoing Child Seat Inspection Program.

“The Child Seat Inspection Program stands as one of Union County’s most invaluable resources, demonstrating our commitment to safeguarding our children,” said Commissioner Chairperson Sergio Granados. “Through meticulous inspections, expert guidance and essential safety tips, this program ensures that every child car seat meets the highest standards of safety. This program both protects our young ones and offers parents the peace of mind they truly deserve.”

The Union County Board of County Commissioners encourages residents to check their child car seats for proper installation by visiting the County’s Child Safety Seat Inspection Program Center, located at the Garwood Rescue Squad at 401 2nd Ave. in Garwood. The program will run every Wednesday and Thursday, from 7:30 to 11 a.m., and no appointment is necessary.

Commissioner Vice-Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded recently visited the inspection location where she had one of her children's car seats installed.

“As parents, it is our paramount duty to keep our children safe, especially during every car ride,” Palmieri-Mouded said. “That is why I am proud to be a part of Union County’s ongoing Child Seat Inspection Program. Each time I install, change or upgrade one of my children’s car seats, I personally visit the inspection location to have it properly installed and checked for safety measures. I urge all residents to take advantage of this essential program.”

According to the New Jersey Child Passenger Safety Law:

• any child younger the age of 8 years

old and a height of 57 inches shall be secured as follows in the rear seat of a motor vehicle;

• a child younger than the age of 2 years and 30 pounds shall be secured in a rear-facing seat equipped with a fivepoint harness;

• a child younger than the age of 4 years and 40 pounds shall be secured as described until they reach the upper limits of the rear-facing seat, then in a forwardfacing child restraint equipped with a fivepoint harness;

• a child younger than the age of 8 and a height of 57 inches shall be secured as described until they reach the upper limits of the rear-facing or forward-facing seat, then in a belt positioning booster seat;

• a child older than 8 years of age or 57 inches in height must be properly secured by a seat belt; and

• it is recommended that children younger than the age of 13 ride in the backseat.

All car seats and boosters have expiration dates. There should be a manufacturer's label on the back or bottom of the seat that gives the manufacture date and/or specific expiration date.

First launched in 1999, the Child Safety Seat Inspection Program is a service of the Union County Board of County Commissioners, Union County Police Department, New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety and the Garwood First Aid Squad.

For more information about the Safety Seat Inspection Program and other services visit online at ucnj.org/childseats<https://ucnj.org/pub lic-safety/division-of-police/child-safetyseat-inspection-program/> or contact Christine Marcantonio, Traffic Safety Program coordinator, by email at cmarcantonio@ucnj.org<mailto:cmarcantonio@ucn j.org> or by phone at 908-789-6830.

Photos Courtesy of Kelly Martins

91 YEARS

Headed by Master Plumbers, William Schinestuhl and Tom Swick, Chapman Brothers continues a long tradition of plumbing, heating and cooling service in the Union, Essex and Middlesex county area. Originally founded in 1932, Chapman Brothers is one of the longest running plumbing and heating companies in New Jersey. With a highly trained staff representing more than 150 years of experience, Chapman Brothers has over 5,000 customers in the area that can attest to the technical abilities and customer service skill of its trained technicians and staff. We listen to our customers and supply a solution to meet their needs with 100% Satisfaction!

56 YEARS

Providing quality meat for 56 years

56 YEARS

Perrotti’s Quality Meats, at 23 S Union Ave. in Cranford, has been in its current location for 56 years

David Perrotti Sr. and Mario Perrotti, brothers from Italy, opened the business in October 1967. Nick and Dave Perrotti took over in 2015.

Perotti’s traces its roots to 1957, when David 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 and Mario opened Perrotti’s Quality Meats, with the hope of turning their newly found craft into a business of their own More than 50 years later, their business still operates on the corner of S Union Avenue and Cherry Street in Cranford

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 The sons of David Perrotti, Dave Jr and Nick Perrotti, have earned the responsibility of taking over the family business, with an eye toward keeping the old-world butcher shop a part of the community for the next 50 years

Always an active member of the community, Perrotti’s Quality Meats sponsors numerous charitable endeavors, including the Jaycees/St. Michael’s Church, St. Michael’s Feast, the Cranford Fire and Police departments, football at all schools, the Rescue Squad, Special Olympics, the Firecracker 4-Miler and T-ball. Through the years, Perrotti’s Quality Meats has changed by becoming not just a full-service butcher but also by offering a wide variety of prepared foods The original service as a full-service butcher has been maintained, in addition to employee recipes and traditional food

Customers continually praise the business for providing great service, delicious food and having an informative staff

Perrotti’s has been helping local families and businesses celebrate milestones for decades. If you need a caterer for a large party or event, view Perrotti’s catering menu and give them a call or send them an email to start planning your next party or event.

Perrotti’s Quality Meats is open Monday through Friday, from 9 a m. to 6 p m , and Saturday, from 9 a m. to 5 p m , and can be reached by calling 908-272-4980 or visiting its website at perrotti

scranford com

Owners Nick and Dave Perrotti

Pedro, Dave, Tony, Nick, Jim

Photo by Rick Gerritty

Photo by Rick Gerritty

Fall sports are set to begin

By JR Parachini Sports Editor

Girls tennis began last week with tennis balls just beginning to be hit back and forth.

This week the remainder of the fall sports in New Jersey began practice on Monday, Aug. 21 as we creep nearer and nearer to the beginning of the 2023-2024 school season. The other sports that began practicing on Monday included boys and girls soccer, field hockey, crosscountry, gymnastics and girls volleyball.

2022 fall UCT champions

• Boys soccer: Westfield High School

• Girls soccer: Westfield High School

• Field hockey: Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child

• Boys cross-country: Union Catholic High School

• Girls cross-country: Union Catholic High School

• Gymnastics: Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School

• Girls tennis: Kent Place School

• Girls volleyball: Westfield High School

The top field hockey teams in Union County last year were Union County Tournament champion Oak Knoll, Kent Place, Westfield and Arthur L. Johnson High School.

Competing in the newly-formed EssexUnion Conference, Oak Knoll finished second in the Red Division at 17-6 and Kent Place third at 15-8. West Essex finished first at 20-3-1. Livingston High School was first in the Blue Division at 107 and Montclair Kimberley Academy first in the White Division at 14-8.

Union Catholic won both the boys and girls UCT cross-country team championships.

Scotch Plains-Fanwood won the UCT gymnastics meet and, as a result, will host the UCT this year on Oct. 19. Westfield was second and Cranford High School third.

Kent Place captured another UCT girls tennis crown, which was its fourth straight outright. The Lady Dragons have either won the UCT outright or shared the title every year since 2016.

Westfield won the Union County Conference’s Watchung Division title at 15-4, then won the North 2, Group 4 championship before falling in the Group 4 final to Marlboro. Kent Place placed second at 14-3.

Oak Knoll was first in the Mountain Division at 12-6 and Jonathan Dayton High School was first in the Valley Division at 11-2.

Westfield was the girls volleyball UCT champion and finished 24-1, also winning the UCC’s Watchung Division. Rahway High School was first in the Mountain Division at 17-6 and Jonathan Dayton first in the Valley Division at 19-6.

The regular season in all of these sports

The regular season in all of these sports commences the first week in September following Labor Day.

commences the first week in September following Labor Day.

From unioncountyconference.com

Union County Interscholastic Athletic Conference

Fall 2023 tournament dates

UCT boys soccer

• Play by Thursday, Oct. 5: first round at higher seed

• Saturday, Oct. 7: second round at higher seed

• Wednesday, Oct. 11: quarterfinals at higher seed

• Saturday, Oct. 14: semifinals at Arthur L. Johnson

• Saturday, Oct. 21: final at Arthur L. Johnson

UCT girls soccer

• Play by Tuesday, Oct. 3: play-in at higher seed

• Play by Thursday, Oct. 5: first round at higher seed

• Saturday, Oct. 7: second round at higher seed

• Tuesday, Oct. 10: quarterfinals at higher seed

• Friday, Oct. 13: semifinals at Arthur L. Johnson

• Saturday, Oct. 21: final at Arthur L. Johnson

UCT girls tennis

• Wednesday, Sept. 27 at Donald Van Blake Tennis Facility in Plainfield

• Thursday, Sept. 28 at Donald Van Blake Tennis Facility in Plainfield

• Friday, Oct. 2: Rain date

UCT field hockey

• Thursday, Oct. 18 and Friday, Oct. 19: preliminary and first round

• Saturday, Oct. 21: quarterfinals at higher seed

• Wednesday, Oct. 25: semifinals at Arthur L. Johnson

• Saturday, Oct. 28: final at Arthur L. Johnson

UCT cross country

• Thursday, Oct. 19: Warinanco Park, Roselle

UCT gymnastics

• Thursday, Oct. 19: Scotch Plains-Fanwood

UCT girls volleyball

• Tuesday, Oct. 12: first round

• Thursday, Oct. 14: second round

• Saturday, Oct. 16: quarterfinals

• Wednesday, Oct. 18: semifinals at Arthur L. Johnson

• Friday, Oct. 20: final at Kean University

9 Rms, open floor plan, Family Rm and dining Room, Electric fireplace,

1st floor 5th Bedroom, and full bath Center isle kitchen, red oak hardwood flooring, 2nd floor master suite with 2 walk-in closets, full tiled bath w/soaking tub & Stall shower

3 additi

UCUC golfer competes at nationals and achieves All-American status

Union College of Union County golfer

Patrick Murray finished 18th in the nation, earning All-American honors, at the National Junior Athletic Association Division III National Golf Championship. The golf tournament was held in June in Chautauqua, N.Y.

As Murray swung through the competition, he earned an impressive score of 309 during the combined four-day tournament. Murray’s finish was the second best ever for Union at a national tournament.

Murray’s academic performance was on par with his scoring; he earned a 4.0 grade-point average in the spring 2023

semester and was recognized as an AllAmerican honor student at the conclusion of nationals. Murray is a well-rounded student, serving as a peer tutor in Union’s Academic Learning Center and as copresident of the Student Athlete Advisory Council.

“We are proud of Patrick’s performance at this year’s national championship. We look forward to seeing him compete for Union again as he received a return bid to nationals next year. This is a fantastic achievement for Patrick, under the leadership of our golf coach, professor Marc Postiglione,” said Union President Margaret M. McMenamin.

Advertising Manager: Joseph Farina

Photo Courtesy of Margaret Ortuso

Union College of Union County golfer Patrick Murray strikes a smile with head golf coach and associate professor in business Marc Postiglione.

Cranford football looks to continue its winning ways

By JR Parachini Sports Editor

When you’re talking about one of the most consistent football programs, not only in Union County, but in the entire state of New Jersey for more than a decade, you’re talking about the Cranford Cougars.

Cranford High School has produced 13 consecutive winning seasons, 2010 to 2022, and has qualified for the state playoffs the last 11 seasons in which they have been contested — 2011 to 2019 and 2021 and 2022.

Along the way, Cranford has captured the first three state championships the Cougars have won in the playoff era, winning North 2, Group 3 crowns in 2011, 2015 and 2021.

Although last year’s squad did not win another state title, the Cougars still secured a solid 7-3 record that saw them reach the North 2, Group 3 semifinals after a 31-7 first round home win against Warren Hills Regional High School.

Cranford went 6-2 in its eight-game regular season slate a year ago to earn the No. 2 seed as the defending champions in North 2, Group 3.

The Cougars finished second in the Big Central Conference’s United Gold Division with a 3-1 record. St. Thomas Aquinas High School of Edison won the league title with a 4-0 record that included a 27-24 triumph at Cranford.

In the upcoming season, Cranford will play the same eight teams it did last year and in the same order. The United Gold Division stays the same, with the five teams being Cranford, Rahway, Scotch Plains-Fanwood, St. Thomas Aquinas, and Summit.

After coming back late and then winning in overtime at home against North Hunterdon Regional High School two years ago, Cranford was defeated at home by North Hunterdon 34-7 in last year’s season-opener. A much improved North Hunterdon squad went 11-2 last year and captured the North 2, Group 4 sectional state championship with a 49-35 home win against Randolph High School in the final. North Hunterdon then fell to North 1, Group 4 champ Northern Highlands High School 22-21 in overtime in the Group 4 semifinals played at Franklin.

Cranford then won at Summit High School 42-33 and at Woodbridge High School 35-28 to get to 2-1. Back home against 3-1 St. Thomas Aquinas, Cranford was edged by the Edison parochial school to see its record even at 2-2.

Seeking to play better defensively, Cranford began what would be a five-game winning streak with three straight shutouts. The Cougars won at Rahway High School 35-0, home against Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School 28-0, and then at Linden High School 31-0. The final regular season win was a 34-14 decision at home against North Brunswick Township high School.

Summit and Linden, which both did not qualify for the playoffs, went on to win Regional Invitational Tournament titles.

Including the Warren Hills home playoff victory, Cranford entered its next game having given up only 21 points, just three touchdowns, in its previous five games.

Cranford played well defensively at home against West Essex High School in the North 2, Group 3 semifinals, giving up only two scores. However, the Cougars could only reach the end zone once in what came to be a season-ending 14-7 defeat.

Even though Cranford did not get back to the North 2, Group 3 final, which would have been at eventual champion West Morris, the Cougars did improve defensively in the course of the season and gave up only 35 points in their final six games.

Cranford will host Summit, Woodbridge, Rahway and Linden this year and will play at North Hunterdon, St.

Thomas Aquinas, Scotch Plains, and North Brunswick. Cranford Cougars 2023

• Friday, Sept. 1, at North Hunterdon, 7 p.m.

• Friday, Sept. 8, Summit, 7 p.m.

• Thursday, Sept. 14, Woodbridge, 7 p.m.

• Friday, Sept. 22, at St. Thomas Aquinas, 7 p.m.

• Friday, Sept. 29, Rahway, 7 p.m.

• Friday, Oct. 6, at Scotch Plains-Fanwood, 7 p.m.

• Friday, Oct. 13, Linden, 7 p.m.

• Friday, Oct. 20, at North Brunswick, 7 p.m. Big Central Conference’s United Gold Division

Cranford, Rahway, Scotch Plains St. Thomas Aquinas, Summit

Photo by JR Parachini Cranford head coach Erik Rosenmeier, pictured on the sideline of one of his team’s games, has been at the helm of the Cougars since 2005 and is in his 19th season. He has guided the Cranford Cougars to the state playoffs every year since 2011 and to 13 straight winning seasons, beginning in 2010.

College president named Woman of the Year by Irish Business Association

Union College of Union County has announced that Margaret M. McMenamin, president of the college, has been named 2023 Woman of the Year by the Irish Business Association of New Jersey, part of the Greater Westfield Area Chamber Commerce. The award was presented to McMenamin on Thursday, June 29, at the IBA’s 13th annual Awards Dinner.

McMenamin was appointed as president of the college in July 2010 and is its first female president. With her leadership, the college has seen drastic improvements to student success outcomes, particularly the graduation rates. In 2020, McMenamin was named the National Marie Y. Martin CEO of the Year by the Association of Com-

munity College Trustees. In 2022, the Aspen Institute for College Excellence named Union as one of only 25 semifinalists nationwide for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. As it relates to her Irish heritage, McMenamin served as grand marshal of the Union County St. Patrick’s Day Parade in 2015.

“We are delighted about this welldeserved recognition of President McMenamin. She is very proud of her Irish heritage, so I know this award is special to her. We are thankful to the IBA for honoring this great leader and proud IrishAmerican as their Woman of the Year,” said Union Board of Trustees Chairperson Victor M. Richel.

Margaret M. McMenamin, president of Union College of Union County, has been named 2023 Woman of the Year by the Irish Business Association of New Jersey, part of the Greater Westfield Area Chamber Commerce.

Cranford Cougars step in to keep the football program rolling

By JR Parachini Sports Editor

Players step in here and keep the program rolling. Many of them also excel in other sports, which the coaching staff feels is huge.

They’re ready to compete, which is what a team needs if it is going to succeed in terms of producing wins ahead of losses.

In between a season-opening home loss to a pretty good North Hunterdon Regional High School team and a season-ending second-round playoff loss, also at home and to a quality opponent in West Essex High School, Cranford High School went 7-1 last year, the only setback in that stretch coming to parochial school St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Edison.

No, Cranford did not follow the 2021 season with another state championship, but the Cougars still finished 7-3 in 2022 and were a contender.

Cranford has produced a winning season every year since 2010. The Cougars have qualified for the state playoffs every year since 2011. No other program in Union County can say that.

“It’s a new feeling and a new team, but we’re ready to go,” senior halfback-linebacker Ryan Carracino said. “We work hard and demand the best from ourselves. We know the tradition. We’re always out to give our best effort.”

Head coach Erik Rosenmeier is in his 19th season at the helm of the Cougars. With Scott Miller no longer coaching at David Brearley High School, Rosenmeier is now the longest tenured head coach in Union County, one year ahead of Jim DeSarno, who began at Westfield High School in 2006.

“I can’t believe how fast the time has gone,” said Rosenmeier, who took over as head coach in 2005.

Rosenmeier still recalls his first game as if it were yesterday.

“We beat Hillside 33-22 at Hillside,” Rosenmeier recalled.

“I’ve come to love Cranford High School and the feeling from the community,” he added. “The kids in town

play for our team in town. I’m here for as long as they will have me.”

When talking about an area of dominance, Rosen-

See COUGARS, Page 19

Photo by JR Parachini

The 2023 Cranford Cougars are sparked by the efforts of seniors, from left, Ryan Carracino, No. 38; Andrew Wozniak, No. 7; Sean Riley, No. 14; and Ben Fossella, No. 78. Head coach Erik Rosenmeier is in his 19th season at the helm of the Cougars.

Cougars say they’re ready to compete

(Continued from Page 18)

meier does not immediately pontificate about offense, defense or special teams.

“Our biggest strength is that most of our guys play one way,” he said. “It allows us to wear teams out, overcome injuries and it makes practice very competitive with offensive starters going up against defensive starters.”

Representing the Cougars

• Andrew Wozniak, No. 7, senior, HB-LB

• Ryan Carracino, No. 38, senior, HB-LB

• Sean Riley, No. 14, senior, WR

• Ben Fossella, No. 78, senior, OL

Taking over at quarterback is junior Tyler Veltre after Liam Godwin played the position last season as a senior for one year.

“Last year, we were not really young; we just had some seniors without a lot of experience,” Rosenmeier said. “This year, we have five to six juniors that are talented. They will have to step up and play at a high level.”

In November, Cranford came within a touchdown of getting back to the North 2, Group 3 state championship game.

“I really wasn’t all that disappointed with the loss to West Essex, because I felt we got better every week of the season, following our opening loss to North Hunterdon,” Rosenmeier said. “We just fell short against West Essex.”

Rosenmeier said he is high on his defense, which is continued to be

schooled by longtime coordinator Joe Hubert. “I’ve been impressed right from the start,” Rosenmeier said.

For the third year in a row, Cranford will open against North Hunterdon, the

first game of the season scheduled for Friday, Sept. 1, at North Hunterdon. Cranford came back by two touchdowns late to tie the game and then beat the Lions 43-37 in single overtime on a Colin

Murray rushing touchdown up the middle in the 2021 opener. North Hunterdon returned to Cranford’s Memorial Field in September of last year and beat the Cougars 34-7.

“We took it upon ourselves last year to see what we were capable of doing after the North Hunterdon game,” Carracino said.

North Hunterdon went on to capture the North 2, Group 4 sectional state championship last year and then fell in the first Group 4 semifinals. The Lions went 11-2 and won their third state championship in the playoff era.

“They were good and we knew that,” Rosenmeier said. “We expect to be in another battle with them right from the start.”

2023 Cranford Cougars

• Friday, Sept. 1, at 7 p.m., at North Hunterdon Regional High School

• Friday, Sept. 8, at 7 p.m., Summit High School

• Thursday, Sept. 14, at 7 p.m., Woodbridge High School

• Friday, Sept. 22, at 7 p.m., at St. Thomas Aquinas High School

• Friday, Sept. 29, at 7 p.m., Rahway High School

• Friday, Oct. 6, at 7 p.m., at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School

• Friday, Oct. 13, at 7 p.m., Linden High School

• Friday, Oct. 20, at 7 p.m., at North Brunswick Township High School

Photo by JR Parachini Cranford High School’s football team sits down at the beginning of the Big Central Conference Media Day events.