Cranford Life - December 2022

Teen is tackling cancer with NFL coach

Nicholas Swandrak, 18, of Cranford, teamed up with retired NFL coach Tom Coughlin to raise money for local families facing pediatric cancer on Friday, Oct. 21, at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City. In a speech to a crowd of nearly 500 professional athletes, celebrities and supporters at the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund’s annual Champions for Children Gala, Swandrak shared his own journey of being diagnosed with and treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia and his subsequent relapse earlier this year. The Jay Fund, the nonprofit founded by the two-time Super Bowl–winning coach of the New York Giants, marked its 17th year of providing financial, emotional and practical support for families tackling pediatric cancer in the New York/New Jersey metropolitan area.

Swandrak knows all too well the challenges families face when a child is diagnosed with cancer, and he is passionate about raising awareness and funds to support them. He has spent much of the last four years enduring grueling cancer treatments and being isolated from his friends due to his immunocompromised condition. His family has faced expensive medical bills coupled with rising inflation and record-high food costs.

Annual family event returns to Hanson Park

By David Jablonski Managing Editor

Don’t let those spooky-looking heads lit in the darkness scare you; it’s that time of year once again for the Great Pumpkin Carve Out at Hanson Park in Cranford.

“It was awesome,” said Deb Leber, president of Jersey Central Art Studios, which runs the Great Pumpkin Carve Out, in an interview with Union County LocalSource on Monday, Oct. 24. “We had 3,328 people attend, a record! We had a person counting how many attended. It was really busy. We had great weather.”

To put that into perspective, Leber said they had almost 2,000 people come out last year, and that was a really good number.

The 2022 Great Pumpkin Carve Out returned to Hanson Park at 38 Springfield Ave. in Cranford on Saturday, Oct. 22, and it took

little time to realize why so many people were excited about this free event. Quite simply, it’s those carved pumpkins, of all shapes and sizes and spooky designs. Leber could barely contain herself.

“We display them at night,” she said. “We collect them from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the crowds come in around 6 p.m. A movie will be playing at the same time.”

This year, perhaps in anticipation of the crowds, the famous pumpkin stroll started a little earlier, kicking off at 5:30 p.m. and still running until 9 p.m. The earlier start time also accommodated those who preferred an earlier viewing of the displays.

How did the Great Pumpkin Carve Out tradition get started?

“I had the idea back in 2013,” said Leber. “I had just finished an art event that lasted a week, the plein air event, that had

Photo Courtesy of Mary Carnovale

Nicholas Swandrak, 18, of Cranford, right, teamed up with retired NFL coach Tom Coughlin to raise money for local families facing pediatric cancer on Friday, Oct. 21, at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City. Swandrak has spent much of the last four years enduring grueling cancer treatments and being isolated from his friends due to his immunocompromised condition.

Cranford Historical Society hosts events in December

The Cranford Historical Society is hosting several events in the upcoming months.

• On Saturday, Dec. 3, it is celebrating its 95th anniversary with a cocktail party at the Crane-Phillips House Museum. The museum was named an American treasure by the White House Millennium Council and the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 1999. Built in the style of Andrew Jackson Downing, an American architect, it offers a glimpse of what life was like for a modest family in the Victorian era of opulence. Guests will enjoy a candlelight walk through of the museum; wine, hors d’oeuvres, coffee, tea and

cake will be served. A fee is charged. Reserve by Monday, Nov. 28.

• On Saturday, Dec. 10, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., at the Hanson House, 38 Springfield Ave., the society will hold its annual holiday boutique fundraiser, featuring society merchandise, holiday decor and gifts, and other items.

• Tours of the Crane-Phillips House Museum, 124 N. Union Ave. in Cranford, resume on Dec. 11, and then every second and fourth Sunday of the month after that, excluding Christmas Day. The museum will be open those Sundays from 2 to 4 p.m.

• On Saturday, Dec. 17, from 2 to 4 p.m., there will be a children’s holiday train program at the Crane-Phillips House Museum. This program is free and open to the public. Reserve a spot by Tuesday, Dec. 13.

• On Sunday, Dec. 18, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., there will be a holiday music program at the Hanson House featuring the Cranford High School Madrigals choral group. This program is also free and open to the public. RSVP by Tuesday, Dec. 13.

For more information and to RSVP, call the historical society at 908-276-0082, email cranfordhistoricalsociety@verizon.net or visit cranfordhistoricalsociety.com.

Union College president selected for HACU governing board

Margaret M. McMenamin, president of Union College, has been selected to serve on the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities governing board for a two-year term. McMenamin joins more than 15 other higher education leaders from throughout the country to serve on the HACU governing board. Union College is one of only five HACUmember Hispanic-serving community colleges in New Jersey. This fall, 45 percent of Union’s enrolled students and more than 55 percent of its first-time, full-time students identify as Hispanic, the largest in the college’s history.

Based on the college’s Hispanic student enrollment, Union is a federally designated Hispanic-serving institution.

HACU was founded in 1986 and represents more than 500 colleges and universities in the United States, Latin America and Europe. According to its website, HACU is the only national association representing existing and emerging Hispanic-serving institutions.

As long as she has been Union’s presi-

dent, McMenamin has fully committed to the college’s mission of “Transforming Our Community … One Student at a Time.” During her time at Union, she has focused on student success campaigns, one of which is “Inspire the Future,” which provides Union County College Foundation scholarships to support Hispanic students

who are on track to graduate. Union has also made connections with outside organizations to create learning and career pathways to further support its Hispanic population. The “Progresando” initiative at Union is supported by a Bank of America grant that aims to increase retention, course completion rates and licensure pass rates for the Hispanic students in targeted health care programs.

“We are proud to have Dr. McMenamin represent Union on HACU’s governing board,” said Union board Chairperson Victor M. Richel. “As a state with over 1 million Hispanic residents, we recognize the tremendous value that HACU brings to advance college access and quality for our students.”

‘As a state with over 1 million Hispanic residents, we recognize the tremendous value that HACU brings to advance college access and quality for our students.’

— Victor M. Richel

Photos Courtesy of U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Nathan Sands, from Cranford, has been selected for a below-the-zone promotion. Eight airmen had their packets sent to the selection board, but only two were selected for promotion to senior airman. Sands had a deployment to Romania in support of a NATO mission, in response to Russia attacking Ukraine. He also just finished anti-drone training. His promotion is effective Friday, Dec. 23.

Union College of Union County has entered into an education partnership with Amazon and its Amazon Career Choice Program. Beginning this fall semester, Amazon will provide its workers tuition to attend Union College and learn new skills for career success. Amazon employees can enroll in all Union courses and degrees for this partnership. The company now employs approximately 58,000 people in the state, making it the largest private-sector employer in New Jersey.

Amazon’s Career Choice program is an education benefit that empowers employees to learn new skills for career success, at Amazon or elsewhere. The program provides a variety of opportunities, including college tuition, industry certifications designed to lead to indemand jobs and foundational skills, such as English-language proficiency, high school diplomas and GEDs.

“We’re excited to be partnering with Union College to give our tens of thousands of New Jersey employees access to pursue the education path that fits their passions,” said Colin Newman, director of economic development for Amazon. “Whether employees are looking to finish their degree at Union College or build on their foundational skills, we’re prepared to meet our employees wherever they are on their educational journey.”

“We’re committed to empowering our employees by providing them access to the education and training they need to grow their careers, whether that’s with us or elsewhere,” said Tammy Thieman, Global Program lead of Amazon’s Career Choice program. “We have intentionally created a partner network of third-party educators committed to providing excellent education, job placement resources and continuous improvements to the experience. Today, over 90,000 Amazon employees around the world have already participated in Career Choice, and we’ve seen firsthand how it can transform their lives.”

Amazon’s Career Choice program has a rigorous selection process for thirdparty educators. Union is one of more than 140 colleges and universities strategically selected for the educational partnership.

“Union is grateful for the opportunity to partner with Amazon and provide their employees with a first-rate education at a premiere community college which is focused on social justice,” said Union President Margaret M. McMenamin. “This partnership can greatly impact lives and communities by providing Amazon employees the opportunity to work part-time or full-time and receive a degree at the same time. We are also making a positive difference for our state and economy.” McMenamin

said Amazon was presented with the 2022 Fiat Lux Award at the college’s 30th annual gala. Amazon donated $50,000 to support Union students with scholarships, to help ensure that their economic status is not a roadblock to their academic success.

State Senate President Nicholas P. Scutari, Union County manager Ed Oatman and the Union County commissioners were instrumental in forging the partnership between Union College and Amazon. According to Scutari, “I’m

happy to have helped facilitate this important partnership between Union College and Amazon. With Amazon being the largest private-sector employer in the state, the opportunity for a college education, funded by Amazon, is one that I hope many Amazon employees in Union County will pursue. They will receive a high-quality education from Union that will open doors to more career and professional opportunities.” Scutari is a lifelong Linden resident who attended Union College.

Teen works with coach to support pediatric cancer patients, families

(Continued from Page 1)

Swandrak and his family have been supported by the Jay Fund throughout his treatment.

“The Jay Fund covered our mortgage payments when our bills became overwhelming and has given me experiences that I will never, ever forget,” Swandrak told the crowd of current and former New York Giants, business leaders and Jay Fund families and supporters.

Swandrak’s emotional words captivated the audience, and his speech was one of the highlights of a night that raised

$1.25 million for the Jay Fund and the families it serves.

“Nick is a remarkable young man and a current Jay Fund scholarship recipient,” said Mary Jane Pulzello, managing director of the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund in NY/NJ. “He received a standing ovation from the audience, as many were deeply moved by this young man’s courage and tenacity in fighting cancer for more than four years.”

Swandrak thanked his medical team, which continues to help him through this fight, as well as his friends and

family, who have lifted him up from day one. He saved his most heartfelt appreciation for his parents, stating that their love and support have been everything to him.

“As of today, I’ve had 126 chemo shots, 28 spinal taps and over 200 days sleeping on scratchy hospital sheets,” Swandrak told the crowd. “Fighting cancer is tough. You’re in bed and sick a lot of the time. There are days that are a real struggle. But I’m looking forward to ringing that bell for the second time this December and being back in remission.”

Photos Courtesy of Mary Carnovale

Nicholas Swandrak, 18, of Cranford, above left, hasn’t let his battle with cancer slow him down. He was at the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund’s annual Champions for Children Gala on Friday, Oct. 21, to raise money for local families facing pediatric cancer and share his own journey of being diag-

nosed with and treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia and his subsequent relapse earlier this year. Above right, Coughlin; Mary Jane Pulzello, managing director of the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund in NY/NJ; and Swandrak stand together at the gala.

Evening of Excellence highlights the works of MHANJ

By Yael Katzwer Editor

Throughout the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of the Mental Health Association in New Jersey’s programming became crystal clear. Across the state, when individuals and families are struggling with the many challenges that come with mental illness and poor mental health, MHANJ is there to provide the education, support and compassion that make all the difference.

It was therefore no surprise that so many people came out Wednesday, Nov. 9, to celebrate the MHANJ at its 22nd annual Evening of Excellence at the Park Savoy Estate in Florham Park. The fundraiser event, featured spectacular food, an exciting raffle and silent auction, and fellowship, also served as an opportunity for the MHANJ to celebrate its many supporters and partners.

“This all started with Carolyn Beauchamp well over 30 years ago,” event Chairperson Rosemary Scoppetuolo said at the event, speaking of MHANJ’s president and CEO. “We spent a year putting this event together and we weren’t sure if people were going to show up, but you all showed up in a big way and it’s fabulous.”

A key feature of the evening was a videoed interview with television star Mayim Bialik.

We have a special treat tonight. We have a video of an interview with a national celebrity, Mayim Bialik,” MHANJ board of trustees Chairperson Harold B. Garwin said at the event, praising Bialik’s openness regarding her mental health journey. “She is being interviewed by one of our native sons, Steve Adubato.”

According to Bialik in the video, while there is certainly stigma associated with mental illness, she has always found it important to bring mental health issues into the light.

“I was always open about it, even though I was raised in a home with mental illness and addiction, and they were things we didn’t talk about,” Bialik said, adding that her “loving family” suffered from mental illness, substance abuse, and generational trauma resulting from her grandparents surviving pogroms and the Holocaust. “I grew up in an unpredictable home. … There was a lot of hiding, a lot of secrets.”

Despite this upbringing, Bialik feels it is important to address mental health issues — a step that can be especially difficult if those struggling don’t even realize that their struggles relate to mental illness. Bialik shared that

she did not know she had obsessive compulsive disorder until a doctor told her.

“I just had the things I did to make myself feel safe,” Bialik said.

Nowadays, in addition to co-hosting “Jeopardy!” and continuing to act in sitcoms, Bialik also hosts a podcast, titled “Mayim Bialik’s Breakdown,” which she described as “an exploration” of mental health issues. In the podcast, Bialik, who has a doctorate in neuroscience, breaks down the complexities surrounding mental health to lead to a better understanding for all of her listeners.

Perhaps the most important message to communicate is that mental illness is not a failure of character.

“People who are bipolar, who have mental health issues, are not bad people; they are struggling,” Bialik stressed.

This is part of the work that MHANJ and its partners do every day.

The first honoree of the evening was James McCreath, retired vice president for psychiatry, behavioral health and long-term care at Trinitas Regional Medical Center in Elizabeth. A licensed clinical social worker with a doctorate, McCreath helped make Trinitas one of the largest hospital-based mental health centers in New Jersey, offering the full continuum of care for adults, children, adolescents and families alike. In addition to a 98-bed inpatient facility, Trinitas has a special unit for mentally ill and developmentally disabled individuals.

“Jim has been an outstanding leader in the behavioral health field,” Garwin said. “He has been a strong advocate for his clients; he has been a strong advocate for the mental health field.”

“It has been a wonderful 46 years and every day I couldn’t wait to get to work. Of course there were some days I couldn’t wait to get home,” McCreath joked, adding that receiving this award is “on top of a fulfilling career and from such a distinguished organization as MHANJ.”

The MHANJ also honored McCreath’s organization, the behavioral health and psychiatry department at Trinitas Regional Medical Center. The award was received by Aziel Valdez, director of nursing, behavioral health and psychiatry.

“It has an outstanding faculty,” Garwin said. “It does a great job locally and it has statewide programs.”

Jacob C. Farbman, executive director of the Center for Student Success of the New Jersey Council of County

Colleges, took home an award as well, for his work in supporting the mental health of county college students during the height of the pandemic.

“He has spent his career as a dedicated community college advocate,” Garwin said. “The college age is one of the most sensitive ages for mental health and treatment,” he continued, adding that this was especially true during the height of the pandemic.

“Thank you for helping us support the 300,000 students who rely on community colleges as a pathway to economic independence,” Farbman said.

MHANJ also celebrated the New Jersey Council of County Colleges, with NJCCC President Aaron Fichtner accepting the award.

“We thank you all for this important partnership,” Fichtner said.

The final award went to the MinuteClinic, which is located inside select CVS Pharmacy stores. MinuteClinic offers expanded services where clinicians can screen, diagnose and treat customers and provide follow-up care for chronic conditions, including mental health issues, as well as provide services for minor injuries and illnesses, immunizations, and annual exams.

“This initiative is in response to the growing need for affordable mental health support,” Garwin said of MinuteClinic.

The award was collected by Angela Patterson, chief nurse practitioner officer of CVS MinuteClinic.

Event host Lynette Sheard applauded each honoree, adding, “I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been to the MinuteClinic.”

Throughout the evening, Sheard relied on the symbolism of the lotus flower, which grows out of mud into something beautiful and aromatic.

“As I talk about the lotus growing, we are also growing and learning,” said Sheard, a singer and actor who is the director of MHANJ’s New Jersey Mental Health Players, an interactive community education program, and winner of the 2021 national Richard Van Horn Innovation in Programming Award from Mental Health America. Sheard has worked at the Mental Health Association for more than 18 years as a staff development trainer, senior employment specialist and a community education coordinator.

Mental Health Players is just one of many programs offered through MHANJ. To learn more about all of MHANJ’s various programs, visit mhanj.org.

Above left, Lynette Sheard performs with a band at the event. Above center, from left, are Jacob C. Farbman, executive director of the Center for Student Success of the New Jersey Council of County Colleges; Angela Patterson, representing CVS MinuteClinic; Carolyn Beauchamp, president and CEO of the Mental Health Association in New Jersey; Harold B. Garwin, MHANJ board chairperson; James McCreath, retired vice president for psychiatry, behavioral health and long-term care at Trinitas Regional Medical Center; Aziel Valdez,

director of nursing, behavioral health and psychiatry at Trinitas Regional Medical Center; and Aaron Fichtner, president of the New Jersey Council of County Colleges. Above right, from left, are Farbman; Anthony Iacono, president of County College of Morris; Mary M. Zimmermann, executive committee chairperson of New Jersey Council of County Colleges and chairperson of Union County College’s board of governors; David Stout, president of Brookdale Community College; and Fichtner.

Photos by Yael Katzwer

Union County’s pumpkin recycling program returns

Union County residents can put their jack-o’-lanterns to good use after Halloween by participating in Union County’s pumpkin recycling program, which returns this November after being a smash hit last year. The program is coordinated by Union County and municipal partners. The pumpkins will be sent to an organic waste recycling facility and transformed into green energy.

“The pumpkin recycling program is an easy, convenient way for Union County residents to support the renewable energy industry in our community,” said County Commissioner Chairperson Rebecca Williams. “The program also raises awareness about new opportunities to recycle

food waste, instead of disposing it in landfills or incinerators.”

Three locations will be available for residents to drop off their pumpkins. Residents from any municipality in Union County can use any of these locations.

Residents can drop off their pumpkins Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., except on holidays. The last day to drop off pumpkins will be Monday, Nov. 28.

The drop-off locations are:

• Berkeley Heights Department of Public Works, 101 Berkeley Ave. in Berkeley Heights.

• Elizabeth Recycling Center, 523 Trenton Ave. in Elizabeth.

• Westfield Conservation Center, 1300

Lamberts Mill Road in Westfield.

Only pumpkins will be accepted at these locations. Other food waste is not accepted. Candles and decorations must be removed.

The pumpkin recycling program will send pumpkins to a processing facility in Elizabeth operated by WM. The company’s proprietary recycling system converts food waste into organic slurry, which is used to increase the output of biogas and other renewable products at municipal wastewater treatment plants.

Food waste is a global problem that contributes to excess greenhouse gas emissions while burdening local governments with waste disposal costs. In the

United States alone, more than 52 million tons of food is disposed of each year, according to some estimates.

Traditionally, food waste is sent to landfills or burned in waste-to-energy facilities. New organic recycling systems provide a more sustainable way to manage food waste.

Union County residents can also help reduce food waste by using leftovers, donating unused shelf stable items to food banks before their use-by date and starting a compost pile.

For more information about Union County recycling programs, visit the Bureau of Recycling and Planning website at ucnj.org/recycle or call 908-654-9889.

Union County working to improve mobility on county corridors

The Union County Board of County Commissioners has announced that Union County, in collaboration with local senators, mayors and other stakeholders, is exploring all available funding opportunities to best address the impact of congestion on county roads from end to end.

“Improving the quality of life in our neighborhoods is our top priority, and having everyone on board will make all corners of Union County safer for our residents and more attractive and viable for investment and opportunity,” said Commissioner Chairperson Rebecca Williams.

The Route 28 corridor, specifically, crosses into Plainfield from Middlesex County and travels through several municipalities in Union County, ending in Elizabeth. Union County, with the help of several local dignitaries, will be working to address the current and projected

future congestion, mobility and safety issues.

“Working together allows us to take a proactive approach in managing and improving our most heavily trafficked corridor,” said Senate President Nicholas Scutari. “The Route 28 corridor is a critical network of roads which run through multiple towns across the center of the county. I look forward to working with the county of Union in a multimodal approach to evaluate and mitigate the impacts of congestion.”

“Union County is thriving with the amount of housing and new businesses that are being constructed across our municipalities. However, we are aware that, with these projects, there comes challenges with creating a safe, sustainable transportation corridor,” said Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Union County representative and

executive committee board member of the New Jersey Transportation Planning Authority.

“I would like to thank the county of Union for their willingness to hear our concerns and identify solutions to our traffic concerns,” said Cranford Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty.

“New commerce and redevelopment is great for our towns. However, we know with added infrastructure, expansion and growth there will be concerns for traffic and the safety of our residents,” said Roselle Park Mayor Joseph Signorello III. “And looking into additional funding to improve our roadways is a great step in ensuring our residents and visitors driving through Union County can continue to experience a safe and efficient travel system.”

Cranford crafters return to kick off the holiday season

Photos by David VanDeventer

The Artisan Craft Fair returned to the First Presbyterian Church in downtown Cranford on Saturday, Nov. 12. The longrunning event featured almost two dozen talented artists, crafters and vendors selling something for nearly everyone while the delicious yet affordably priced homemade bake sale goodies helped make the upcoming holidays even sweeter.

EVENING OF EXCELLENCE — Above left, event Chairperson Rosemary Scoppetuolo speaks to event attendees. Above center, MHANJ board of trustees Chairperson Harold B. Garwin speaks about the organization.

Above right, from left, are MHANJ President and CEO Carolyn Beauchamp, honoree James McCreath, and Garwin. Below, attendees enjoy themselves at the MHANJ’s Evening of Excellence on Nov. 9.

Photos by Yael Katzwer

Holiday craft fair kicks off shopping season

Looking for that one-of-a-kind gift for that special someone? Tired of paying shipping fees? A holiday craft fair sponsored by Cesar-Kai Karate Academy, Cranford’s Best Kids and The Max Challenge of Cranford will be on Saturday, Nov. 26, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 777 Walnut Ave., Cranford. The fair will bring together local artisans and businesses to celebrate Small Business Saturday. Shoppers will find a variety of wares, including can-

dles, custom crafts, Irish gifts and collectibles, dog treats, fragrances, wraps and snacks, flag designs, personalized gifts, home decor, photo cards, hot cocoa and more. Local businesses participating are Scout & Cellar Wine, Collins Sweet Delicacies, A Little Bit of Everything, Seven 10 Pure, Giulio Flag Designs and Strawberry Basil Bakery, among many others; there will also be local consultants from Pampered Chef and Savvi.

“Artisans and small businesses are vital to our community, and our craft fair is an excellent opportunity for them to showcase their goods and talents,” said Marissa De Witt Woolley, manager of The Max Challenge of Cranford and the event’s organizer.

Families are welcome. The Grinch and Santa will be on hand for picture taking for that perfect holiday card. For more information, call 908-402-4606.

Union College to host Smithsonian Museum exhibition

Union College of Union County is hosting the exhibition “Museums on Main Street: Voices and Votes, Democracy in America.” The exhibition is open to the public at Union’s Cranford Campus through Saturday, Nov. 19. The exhibit examines the nearly 250-year-old American experiment of a government of, by and for the people, and how each generation continues to question how “to form a more perfect union.”

Joseph Margiotta, academic specialist in history at Union College, is the project director for the exhibit. Margiotta has also contributed pieces from his personal collection to the exhibit.

His goal is to provide evidence that there was democracy in pre-Columbian Native American society during the 16th century.

While the exhibit is at Union, Margiotta is hosting events in conjunction

with Hispanic Heritage Month, Indigenous Peoples Day, Halloween, Election Day and more.

“Union College is proud to be one of only six colleges chosen to host ‘Voices and Votes’ and to provide more insight to our students and members of the community about democracy in America,” said Union College President Margaret M. McMenamin. “We look forward to welcoming exhibit attendees to our campus

to see remarkable pieces of history, dating back several hundred years.”

“Voices and Votes” has been made possible at Union College by the New Jersey Council for the Humanities and is a collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution and the Federation of State Humanities Councils.

For additional information, go to ucc.edu/voicesandvotes or contact Margiotta at Mmargiotta@ucc.edu.

Quinnipiac University’s School of Communications inducted its second hall of fame class on Saturday, Sept. 17.

The honorees were Rich Barry, Class of 1989, former vice president at Nickelodeon/Viacom; Ray Hernandez, Class of 2004, director of communications at Otis Elevator Co.; Meredith Klein, Class of 2005, head of consumer and product communications at Pinterest; and Bruce Taylor, Class of 1981, former director of photography at ESPN.

Barry, of Cranford, executive creative director for Speed Social Marketing, began his career working for Howard Stern in New York City. He moved to Nickelodeon/Viacom as a production coordinator. During his tenure there, he oversaw the promotional campaigns for ’90s television classics such as “Clarissa Explains It All,” “Nickelodeon Guts,” “Rugrats,” “Hey Arnold!” and “Legends of the Hidden Temple.”

He also created a live interactive Halloween show called “Nick or Treat!” While at Nickelodeon, he helped create the live production team, which produced more than 1,300 episodes of live television. He was an executive producer and later a creative director for the Kids’ Choice Awards, overseeing the live pre-show from 2000 to 2009 and the entire international production from 2010 to 2018.

As Nick’s “chief slime officer,” Barry owned the original recipe for green slime and, at one time, held the Guinness World Record for the “Most People Simultaneously Slimed” – 762. In 2018, he struck out on his own, starting Speed Social Marketing, which combined his passion for motorsports with his knowledge of promotion and social media platforms.

“These four inductees are more than worthy of induction and serve as models for our current students,” said Chris Roush, dean of the School of Communications. “They have all taken what they learned at Quinnipiac and thrived in the communications world as industry leaders.”

— Photo Courtesy of John Petit Rich Barry

Holiday Gif t Guide 2022 Holiday Gif t Guide 2022 Gift Guide 2022

Affordable holiday gift ideas with a personalized touch

Are you struggling to find thoughtful gifts for everyone as you make your holiday shopping list? Well, it’s time to get personal! By giving a personalized gift, the recipient will feel special knowing it was created and picked just for them. Here are a few customized gift ideas that they’re sure to love that won’t break the bank.

1. Make their holidays magical with video greetings. Perfect for spreading holiday cheer, SmashUps from American Greetings are highly personalized, smileinducing, shareable videos. There are options for everyone, like a message from Santa that calls the recipient out by name and location, or a customized winter greeting delivered by a talking penguin. SmashUps can check the box for holiday greetings, or you can include a digital gift card to fulfill your gift-giving needs.

With a subscription, you’ll unlock access to all of American Greetings’ digital offerings, meaning you can send unlimited SmashUps year-round. Subscriptions are $6.99 per month or $29.99 per year.

2. Photo finish. Photos are a simple and affordable way to personalize gifts. Start by choosing your favorite pic with

the recipient and then determine how you’d like to deliver it. Whether it’s in a unique frame, or printed on a personal item, such as a mug, blanket, keychain, phone cover or even an ornament for their tree, the recipient will know how much they mean to you each time they view it.

3. Initial thoughts. While not everyone wants to be in pictures, adding personalization to a gift item by using your recipient’s name, initials or monogram, can be a great alternative. And with a wealth of online sites, from boutique stores such as Marley Lilly to major retailers such as

Amazon offering this service, you’ll have endless options — at various price points — to meet your shopping needs.

4. Eat, drink and be merry. They often say the way to the heart is through the stomach. So, whether it’s a foodie friend or a family member who has it all, making their favorite meal, treat, drink or dessert can be the ultimate thoughtful gift. Plus, it can provide you quality time together as you deliver the delicious treats to their home or host them at yours — that is, if they’ll share!

5. Write a message by hand. In an age where everything is digital, seeing a loved one’s handwriting — whether it’s scribbled by a child or printed by a grandparent — can be a special memento and unique way to customize a gift. Gift ideas could be handwritten messages and affirmations; a recipe book of your family favorites; or your handwriting could be inscribed onto a gift item such as a keychain, picture frame or necklace.

Just remember, it’s the thought that counts. And luckily many personalized gifts don’t have to be costly to be remembered. — StatePoint

Holiday Gif t Guide 2022 Holiday Gif t Guide 2022 Gift Guide 2022

What will our holiday shopping look like this year?

If it feels like the holiday season is getting longer and more reliant on technology every year, you’re not imagining it.

According to the Sensormatic Solutions 2022 U.S. Holiday Consumer Sentiment Survey, 52 percent of respondents already started or plan to start their holiday shopping before November, and pre–Labor Day holiday shopping more than doubled during 2021. That said, the top busiest shopping days in the United States are all expected between Black Friday and the day after Christmas.

Whether shoppers are making a list and checking it twice as early in the season as possible or waiting until the last minute, they are also likely to be thinking about all the ways to shop, including integrating digital options with a traditional brick-and-mortar experience, both of which offer key consumer benefits.

“The past couple years have fundamentally changed the way we celebrate the holidays, starting with how we shop,” said Kim Melvin, global leader of marketing at Sensormatic Solutions. “This year, shoppers are using the very same tools they once turned to for health and safety reasons to make the experience more convenient and affordable.”

Sixty-four percent of respondents cited convenience as their top reason for using buy-online-pickup-in-store, aka BOPIS, or curbside pickup this holiday season, while 37 percent are leveraging these options to access onlineexclusive deals. Shoppers are also blurring the lines

between the digital and physical shopping experiences, using their phones while in stores to read product reviews, access coupons, check on product availability and conduct other research — 27 percent use their phones to supplement their shopping experience every time they shop in-store and an additional 31 percent do so most of the time they shop in-store.

“While the majority of shoppers feel very comfortable making their holiday purchases in-store this year, factors

like price, product availability and convenience are at the top of everyone’s minds,” said Melvin. “A combination of traditional brick-and-mortar visits and alternative shopping methods, such as BOPIS and curbside pickup, are helping consumers take these factors into consideration as they complete their holiday wish lists.”

As part of its mission to solve complex retail challenges, Sensormatic Solutions is providing its top strategies to improve your holiday shopping experience:

• If staying within your seasonal budget is a priority for you or you harbor supply chain concerns, consider leveraging shopping holidays such as Black Friday. Doing so can help ensure product availability, and thanks to holiday promotions, help you secure reasonable pricing on needed items.

• One of the most frustrating aspects of holiday shopping is not finding what you need on store shelves. Using alternative shopping methods such as BOPIS and curbside pickup can offer greater convenience and help ensure that when you visit a store, you won’t leave empty-handed.

For more holiday shopping tips and insights, visit sensormatic.com.

Though this holiday season may resemble the last few years in many ways, shoppers’ motivations for going digital have changed. Having a game plan can help you score great deals and find what you need.

— StatePoint

Photo Courtesy of DavidPrado/stock.adobe

Great Pumpkin Carve Out returns for eighth year

about 30 artists. And I had some downtime and I was thinking of what to do next, and someone had told me there are pumpkin events here and they would just line them up. And I thought it would be nice if they were displayed. I’m a painter. It would be nice if they were displayed as their creation, like a sculpture.”

It might have ended there, except that she knew people, particularly those who took care of Hanson Park, who would be intrigued by her idea, so she decided to suggest it to them. The rest is history.

“We got our board together, and they thought it was a great idea,” said Leber. “We did our first event in 2013, and we had about 45 pumpkins. Each year, it grew and grew, and last year we had 145 pumpkins. The people would come in from all over, but primarily around here.

“This is the eighth Great Pumpkin Carve Out, which has drawn hundreds of visitors throughout the area. This is a Jersey Central Art Studios event, with tremendous support from the Cranford Jaycees. We see art as a vital component to our lives and one that will also enrich our community.”

Of course, it wouldn’t be as much fun without some prizes to go along with the stroll. Cash awards were given this year for the funniest, scariest and most original carved pumpkin, grouped by ages: 4-8, 916, and 17 and older. This year featured a family category, so families could submit a group effort.”

Not surprisingly, an effort such as this takes some time to prepare.

“I start working on this in August, to start pulling things together,” said Leber. “We work with the Cranford Jaycees. We have five board members, and we do other events in Cranford, but we don’t have the manpower that the Jaycees do. They pick up stuff from us to put in the park. They set up the stands in the park. They do really great stuff.

“We have a photographer that takes a picture of every pumpkin that’s submitted, and we put it online. It is a long day —

I’m there from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 at night. And the next day, we have to put everything away.”

But why Hanson Park? It’s the atmosphere, which is sometimes something straight out of a horror movie.

“It’s really a spectacular park and it suits this event,” said Leber. “It’s a spooky walk through the trees. We do landscape lighting through the park at night. We had to cancel two years, one because of the weather and one because of COVID. But we’re always looking forward to it.”

Additionally, a big-screen outdoor showing of a surprise favorite movie starts at dark every year, and people are invited to bring blankets. The movie, stroll and contest are all free. Hot cider and cookies are available for purchase.

“This year, we played ‘The Wizard of Oz.’ When I was a little kid, this time each year, it would play on our TV set,” said Leber. “So I just thought it would be cool, and everyone agreed. We didn’t announce it until the day of the event. It just adds to the excitement.”

Involvement by the township has proved essential as well.

“The police have been terrific,” Leber said. “Chief Ryan Greco had been great, the Township Committee and especially Hanson Park Conservancy. Everybody really comes together.

“This is a really unique event,” continued Leber. “I remember Westfield got in touch with us once and they wanted to know what we did and I wouldn’t tell them. It’s fabulous. Some people look forward to it every year. A woman once told me her son had gotten a prize and said he will remember it for years and years to come.”

Creating memories such as this mean a lot to Leber, but she says everything begins and ends with the people who make it happen.

“The most important people are the people who create their artworks. Some of these people work so hard. They work on this for a long time,” Leber said. “There

Photos by David VanDeventer

The eighth annual Great Pumpkin Carve Out returned to Hanson Park in Cranford, to the delight of more than 3,000 people in attendance on Saturday, Oct. 22.

More than 3,000 people were delighted by the return of the eighth annual Great Pumpkin Carve Out on Saturday, Oct. 22.

Colorful creations abound at Great Pumpkin Carve Out

was one woman who took this gourd and made it into the head of a serpent in a garbage can with a big tongue. The people put in so much time and effort.”

When it came time to award the prizes this year, Leber admitted it was tough.

“We give out prizes, and this year was incredibly difficult. All the big stuff was in one category, and it’s really hard to choose,” she said. “I wanted to give everyone an honorable mention because everything was so good. I’m a painter, so I know what it’s like to go to shows. People want recognition, certainly.”

Leber had nothing but praise for every-

one who came out to the Great Pumpkin Carve Out: the artists, the spectators and especially the volunteers.

“All the volunteers were just tremendous,” she continued. “We had 30 volunteers who worked throughout the day and prepared, from August to the day after the event. A lot of these people volunteer with other organizations, too, and they make time for your organization.

“The two most important people are the people who submit their work and the people who make it work. We simply don’t want to just give thanks, we want to say how important your contributions are. Your contributions make this happen.”

IN MEMORIAM

• CILIOTTA – Lawrence J., of Bevidere, formerly of Cranford; Oct. 19. U.S. Army Vietnam War veteran. Retired from Exxon. Husband, father, grandfather, 86.

• DOOLEY – Margaret K., of Cranford; Nov. 6. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 95.

• DOOLEY – Sarah Louise, of Cranford; Nov. 13. Elementary school teacher. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, 88.

• MATOSIAN – Michael Moses, of Cranford; Oct. 8. Retired textiles foreman. Blackbelt in karate, a master at Uechi Ryu. Father, brother, grandfather, 93.

• SHERRIER – Thomas Edward Sr., formerly of Cranford; Sept. 22. Air Force vet, mechanic, Husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, 75.

• WEISS – Elizabeth, of Tunkhannock, Pa., formerly of Cranford; Sept. 25. Deacon, widow, mother, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, 102.

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.

FRESH

022 RENOVATION!

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see contact Tony D’Agostino 848 219 8489

Photos by David VanDeventer

Cranford student participates in Native American Heritage Month

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, students in Michelle Kovach’s theology classes at Mount Saint Mary Academy in Watchung participated in a prayer service inspired by St. Kateri Tekakwitha, the first canonized Native American saint.

“St. Kateri is also known as Lily of the Mohawks, since she was a symbol of purity and is part of the Mohawk people,” said Kovach. “According to legend, St. Kateri would create small chapels in the forest by fashioning wooden crosses to use in prayer.”

For their prayer, students went outside and found sticks to use in creating their own wooden crosses in the same manner as St. Kateri. They then took these crosses up to the chapel in the school’s St. Joseph Building for a prayer for the intercession of St. Kateri. Kovach encouraged them to leave their crosses in the chapel as a sign of thanksgiving to God for the beauty of nature, keep them as a reminder of St. Kateri’s example of holiness, or leave them around campus for their fellow Mounties to find.

Pictured with their wooden crosses are, from left, front row, Jessica Curran, of Cranford; Annie Zwally, of Westfield; and Zoe Tseng, of Watchung; and, back row, Mary Cate King, of Basking Ridge, and Ryan Oden, of Florham Park.

Photo Courtesy of Michelle H Daino