CRANFORDLIFE
UNIONNEWSDAILY.COM
Softball team wins
— See Page 3
Girl Scouts are honored
— See Page 12
Cougars win playoff game
— See Page 14
DECEMBER 2021
VOL. 06 NO. 04
CEII promotes uniting community By EmilyAnn Jackman Staff Writer The Cranford Equity and Inclusivity Initiative, comprising the Cranford Township Committee, the Cranford Police Department, the Cranford Board of Education, the local branch of the NAACP, the Cranford Clergy Council and additional citizens, recently sought feedback from the community regarding its mission, values, vision and goal statements. As the majority of community members who responded supported the mission, values, vision and goal statements, the CEII has set up action planning meetings for the final step in the building of the CEII strategic plan, which is to create specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bounded, or S.M.A.R.T., objectives for each goal. At CEII’s meeting, which took place on Monday, Nov. 1, and was aired on Thursday, Nov. 4, on Cranford’s TV35, CEII member Sherri Williams, along with fellow members Cranford Superintendent Scott Rubin, Cranford Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty, Cranford Police Chief Ryan Greco, business owner Arthur Hearns, NAACP representative Chris Chapman and the Rev. Alfred Brown, provided an update and discussed their progress to date. “We, with the usage of social media, broadcast ‘The Talk’ — the sharing of vulnerable, personable experiences — afforded a glimpse into the implicit bias felt by some Afro-Americans/black members within the community,” Williams said during the meeting. She said the positive and negative feedback was an indication of where Cranford was, with regard to accepting others. She also thanked everyone who completed the survey and participated in the Zoom sessions during this COVID-19 lockdown period. Rubin said that the strategic plan provides the structure for interested participants from the community to work
Above, from left, are Cranford Superintendent of Schools Scott Rubin and Cranford resident Sherri Williams, two members of the Cranford Equity and Inclusivity Initiative who met on Monday, Nov. 1, for a program that aired on Thursday, Nov. 4. At this meeting, the CEII members discussed feedback from the community regarding its mission, values, vision and goal statements. together in planning for the future. Through various collaborative activities, the group assesses where it is now, where it would like to be and how to bridge the two. More specifically, he said, the strategic planning allows CEII to create a mission, identify community values and beliefs, determine how to bring those values to life, and then define a vision. “How we accomplish this vision once we have these foundational elements is by goal setting,” Rubin said. “Over the past year or so, we have worked in partnership with community members to create these draft products — mission, vision, values and goals — and the individuals here have served as the Strategic Planning Steering Committee, which helps with the logistics and helps to move the initiative forward. “We then worked with the Strategic Planning Core Team — all of those indi-
viduals who volunteered to assist in proposing the aforementioned components of the strategic plan,” he continued. “These results have been shared with the community, and we sent them out around June, along with a survey for feedback, and the results indicated that the majority of the community support the draft statement. The Action Planning Committee is the final stage of the creation of the strategic plan, where interested participants will then help us create S.M.A.R.T. objectives. Then, we as a community can work together to achieve them.” The group’s mission statement — to create a community that nurtures diversity, empathy, respect and equitable opportunities for all — is outlined in its values statements, vision statements and goal statements. See GROUP, Page 10
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CPD participates in ‘No-Shave November’ events Members of the Cranford Police Department, ranging from the rank of captain to communications officer, will be participating in Cranford PBA Local 52’s “No-Shave November.” From Monday, Nov. 1, through Tuesday, Nov. 30, officers and civilian employees will be putting down their razors, in an effort to raise money for those in the fight against cancer. “No-Shave November” is a national, monthlong nonprofit fundraising event during which participants forgo their normal shaving and grooming routine in an attempt to promote cancer awareness. Typically, participants donate the money they would have spent on shaving and grooming products, which ultimately benefits such organizations as the American Cancer Society, Prevent Cancer Foundation, Fight Colorectal Cancer and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. To date, “No-Shave November,” which started in 2009, has raised millions of dollars for these organizations. This year, the Cranford Police Department and Cranford PBA selected the Valerie Fund Children’s Center at Morristown Memorial Hospital as its beneficiary. Specifically, the Valerie Center staff expressed that they needed more gift cards, which they give to pediatric patients at the conclusion of their chemotherapy treatment or spinal taps.
Photo Courtesy of Cranford Police Department
Members of the Cranford Police Department are eager to participate in ‘No-Shave November’ once again to raise money for those fighting cancer. Pictured are police department members participating in last year’s event. Detective Lt. John Swandrak’s son, Nicholas, was a patient at Morristown Memorial Hospital’s Valerie Center, which led to the Cranford PBA spearheading this fundraising effort. Individuals may donate to this year’s cause by dropping off $15 to $20 gift cards — preferably to Amazon, Target,
Chick-fil-A, Chipotle or Starbucks — at the Cranford Police Department or by visiting the Cranford PBA’s website and sponsoring a participating officer in any amount. Donors making a monetary donation should visit cranfordpba52.org and put the sponsored officer’s name in the notes section during checkout.
Since 2014, members of the Cranford Police Department, nicknamed The Fuzz, have raised between $5,000 and $10,000 annually for “No-Shave November.” For more information, visit cranfordpba52.org or ask a participating member of the Cranford Police Department.
Cranford Life — December 2021 — 3
Photos Courtesy of Jay Harris
Above left, at the presentation of the trophies are, from left, back row, coach Chris Calas and assistant coaches Jay Decker, Jay Harris and Michelle Calas; middle row, Avery Dugan, Emilia Valenza, Lexi Jakubowski, Julia Agnone,
Isabel Jakubowski, Delaney Harris and Ryleigh McGuire; and, bottom row, Charlotte Lubinger, Gabby Zaccone, Brooklynn Calas, Julia Brandao, Rita Ferrara and Cassidy Decker. Above right, the girls hold their trophies high.
Softball team wins District 2 Parkway League Championship The Cranford Calas 8U Softball Team won the District 2 Parkway League Championship on Saturday, Oct. 23, at Pony Tail Park in South Plainfield. The team finished the season with an 11-1 record; the championship game saw them avenge their only loss of the season against a talented Clark squad, 4-2. Cranford won on the strength of consistent hitting and strong defense that the team delivered when they
needed it most. “We set a high standard for the girls going back to summer ball, and they just kept working and getting better as a team,” said coach Chris Calas, who led the group for the second consecutive season. “We preach listening and having fun, and the girls did just that all the way through. I’m super proud of how this team battled, picked themselves up when they needed to and gave it everything an 8-year-old could.”
Tears flowed from the faces of both teams as they lined the first- and third-base lines for the trophy presentation. While it was understandable from their opponents, the Cranford girls assured coaches that theirs were tears of joy. A lot of heart epitomizes this great group of young women who reaped the reward for an outstanding season.
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4 — December 2021 — Cranford Life
UCC dedicates Weidenburner Hall in honor of largest donation On Tuesday, Oct. 19, Union County College unveiled a plaque to dedicate Weidenburner Hall. Formerly known as the Humanities Building, the building was renamed in honor of the nearly $2.7 million donation by the estate of Union County College alumnus Bruce Weidenburner. This generous donation from Weidenburner is the single largest individual gift made to the Union County College Foundation in its history. Prior to his death, Weidenburner established an endowed scholarship with the Union County College Foundation in his parents’ name. As a lifelong resident of Linden, Weidenburner developed his family’s scholarship to help Linden High School graduates receive a college degree. Present for the unveiling were state Sen. Nicholas P. Scutari, state Assemblyman James J. Kennedy, Union County Commissioners Lourdes Leon and Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded; and Union County College board of trustees Chairperson Victor M. Richel. “I am proud to be here today to recognize the generosity of a fellow resident of Linden. What a legacy to leave behind. This gift from the Weidenburner family will have a lasting impact on our community for generations to come. I look forward to helping Linden students expand their education by offering scholarships. It is imperative that this generosity helps our students. My office will always be there as a resource for all families seeking these scholarships,” said Scutari, who represents New Jersey’s 22nd legislative district, which includes Linden. Weidenburner, son of former U.S. Attorney and New Jersey Superior Court Judge Chester Weidenburner and his wife, Emily, established this planned gift. Both of Weidenburner’s parents were members of the inaugural graduating class of the college. In recognition of the donation, which was made earlier in the year, the col-
Photo Courtesy of Nicole Torella
State Sen. Nicholas P. Scutari and Union County College board of trustees Chairperson Victor M. Richel stand together following the unveiling of the new Weidenburner Hall, formerly the Humanities Building, on Tuesday, Oct. 19. lege’s board of trustees and board of governors approved naming the building Weidenburner Hall at its joint meeting on Tuesday, May 25. “As Mr. Weidenburner graciously chose to honor Union with this transformative gift, we are reciprocating that honor by naming a building in recognition of this generosity. For years to come, not only will students who directly benefit financially from this gift walk our halls,
but they will see this family’s name on the building. We are appreciative of the magnitude of this gift and are proud to honor the Weidenburner family,” said UCC President Margaret M. McMenamin. For more information about how you can donate to the Union County College Foundation, contact the foundation’s executive director, Doug Rouse, at 908-709-7113 or douglas.rouse@ucc.edu.
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TEA FOR TWO … AND THEN SOME — The Cranford College Women’s Club members hold their teapots high after a successful tea party fundraiser. The club raises money for scholarships for Cranford residents. From left are Women’s Club President Karen Morales, cochairperson of the Tea Committee; Janet Collins, advertising chairperson; Elaine Romano; and Sandra Held, co-chairperson of the Tea Committee. Thanks were given to all who attended and to all local business donors.
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Holiday Gift Guide 2021 Protect children by steering clear of knockoff toys In the scramble to get your hands on the toys your children want this holiday season, experts warn that you should prioritize safety by sticking to age-appropriate toys and by avoiding counterfeit alternatives at all costs. “Illicit sellers of counterfeit toys may dupe parents into thinking they’re buying the real thing, or entice them with lower prices or the promise of getting the ‘hot toy’ of the holiday season,” said Joan Lawrence, The Toy Association’s “Toy Safety Mom” and senior vice president of standards and regulatory affairs. “What’s scary is that these illegitimate sellers are actually peddling fake and unsafe products that oftentimes don’t comply with product safety laws. That’s why we always urge parents to shop from reputable brands and sellers whose toys have been tested for compliance with over 100 different safety standards and tests required by law.” With the shipping crisis predicted to have widespread impacts on the availability of this holiday season’s most popular toys, counterfeits are likely to be even more enticing. And new research conducted by OnePoll on behalf of The Toy Association suggests that consumers are not always as vigilant as they should be, with 65 percent of parents saying they would purchase knockoff or counterfeit toys if they couldn’t get their hands on the original item and 63 percent indicating they would buy counterfeits if they were cheaper. Indeed 1 in 10 parents are not even aware that counterfeit toys can be dangerous for children to play with.
Photo Courtesy of Nattakorn Maneerat / iStock via Getty Images Plus
As you go about looking to snag a hot toy this holiday season, steer clear of counterfeit toys that are not safe or appropriate for your child by following these tips from PlaySafe.org: 1. Shop only from reputable brands and sellers. Their toys have been tested for compliance with more than 100 different safety standards and tests required by law. 2. Make sure the brand you’re purchasing from has a professional-looking website. Can’t find a website? That may be a red flag that you are dealing with an illicit seller.
3. If a product’s reviews are negative, or if there aren’t many, it’s a clue the product could be a fake. 4. Poorly photoshopped pictures, typos or spelling mistakes in the online description or packaging are other clues that the product could be illegitimate, and therefore unsafe. 5. Can’t find a toy on your child’s wish list? Wait for a trusted retailer to restock the product. Buying fake or cheaper alternatives is just not worth the risk. In addition to avoiding knockoff toys, helping ensure your child’s safety during the gift-giving season also means shopping for toys only appropriate for their age. According to The Toy Association survey, 76 percent of parents read age recommendations on toy packaging before purchasing. However, 40 percent admitted they view age labels on toys as suggestions instead of a warning, and 68 percent would give their child a toy recommended for older children. Be sure to follow age recommendations on toy packaging, which are not mere suggestions but firm recommendations made by safety experts and based on childhood developmental stages. For more safe shopping tips, visit www.PlaySafe.org, a premier toy safety resource site. “With your vigilance, you can keep the merriest time of year happy, healthy and joyful by ensuring your child doesn’t unwrap a potential safety hazard,” said Lawrence. — StatePoint
Cranford Life — December 2021 — 7
Holiday Gift Guide 2021 Unique holiday gift ideas for everyone on your list One of the best ways to ensure you give thoughtful, meaningful holiday gifts is by consulting gift guides that offer unique ideas for everyone on your list. Whether you’re shopping for a fashionista or an athlete, get inspired to make the holiday season brighter for your loved ones with the following ideas: • For book worms: Give the book worms in your life a gift that keeps on giving with a three-month, six-month or 12month subscription to Book of the Month. Membership can be tailored, as users can pick from five popular selections every month, select one or more books at a time, or even defer their choice until the following month. • For music makers: Regardless of their skill level, musicians deserve a powerful, portable and versatile keyboard. Designed for music lovers who enjoy playing anytime, anywhere, the Casiotone CT-S1 has a sleek design 9-pound design, features strap pins and can be powered with six AA batteries, making it a great choice for those in bands and other performers. Aside from its portability, its stereo grand piano sound, 61 full-size keys with touch
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Holiday Gift Guide 2021 Ease the pain of holiday shipping with these tips Holiday plans may look different again this year. Some families will choose to host small gatherings, while others may celebrate from the comfort of home instead of traveling. If you won’t be spending the holidays with loved ones — and if this season is anything like 2020 — you’ll likely be shipping gifts. Here’s how to ensure a timely, damagefree arrival. Be aware of shipping deadlines Each year, the United States Postal Service and other major shipping companies release deadlines to help people plan timely delivery of packages during their busiest season of the year. Whether you’ll manually ship gifts or order them online, prioritizing these deadlines is key. Give yourself ample time. Aim to have packages shipped about 10 to 12 days before the holiday. The USPS recommends no later than Dec. 15, 2021, for ground shipping. Invest in a quality box While it may be tempting to use any old box you have hanging out in the garage, worn-down boxes are much more likely to crumple in-transit. Additionally, if the package is too big for its contents, you risk things rolling or shaking; if it’s too small, you risk tearing and breaking. With this in mind, consider investing in new, quality boxes, like Duck Brand Kraft Box. They are cost-effective, made from recycled, durable materials, and are available in a variety of sizes, all of which meet postal regulations, so you can pick the best fit that protects from damage, while keeping shipping costs down.
Pick proper packing tape If you’re going to invest in shipping supplies, don’t forget to include a strong, easy-to-use packing tape. Lower-quality options may lead to splitting or tearing, which is a recipe for disaster when shipping holiday presents — or even for storing decor until next year. Duck Max Strength Packing Tape offers premium quality and tough adhesion to keep boxes and packages secure during shipping. Stronger and more durable than ordinary tapes, this packing tape is designed to seal even the heaviest boxes safely and securely to help prevent items inside from being damaged during delivery.
Add an extra layer of protection Handle fragile packages with extra care by including the all-important layer of bubble cushioning. Bubble Wrap–brand cushioning easily conforms around treasured objects and helps prevent shifts and damage during shipping. The product’s air lock technology maintains consistent, light-as-air cushioning while filling empty voids in boxes, so items stay put. For best protection, make sure the bubbles are facing your gift to cushion impact. Personalize the package If you prefer a greener option, Flourish Brand Kraft Paper is protective, versatile and sustainable. Made from 100-percent recycled material, the shipping paper can be easily added to standard curbside recycling bins. Plus, it makes it easy to wrap up and ship out large boxes, and can be used to fill packaging voids, so items stay in place. Or, as a fun indoor activity throughout winter, kids may enjoy using Kraft Paper to create customized, DIY wrapping paper. Other special touches to your long-distance holiday delivery could be including a thoughtful note or adding a drop of essential oil to the ribbon. The holidays can be stressful. When you plan ahead and have the proper supplies on-hand, you’ll be able to quickly cross “ship holiday gifts” off your to-do list and enjoy the magic of the season. — StatePoint
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Above, from left, are business owner Arthur Hearns, NAACP representative Chris Chapman, Cranford Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty and the Rev. Alfred Brown, four members of the Cranford Equity and Inclusivity Initiative who met on Monday, Nov. 1, for a program that aired on
Thursday, Nov. 4. The group’s mission statement — to create a community that nurtures diversity, empathy, respect and equitable opportunities for all — is outlined in its values statements, vision statements and goal statements.
Group continues to seek input from entire community (Continued from Page 1) According to the results of the feedback: • 75.4 percent of those who responded agreed that the draft CEII mission statement was clearly stated, specific and easy to understand. • 67.6 percent agreed that the draft mission statement was well aligned to the core values of the community. • 64.2 percent agreed that the draft mission statement is timely and relevant to the needs of all community members. • 62.9 percent agreed that the draft mission statement is realistic and feasible to achieve. • 52.7 percent disagreed that the draft mission statement requires revision. • 74 percent agreed that the initiative’s vision indicators are clearly stated, specific and easy to understand. • 61.8 percent agreed that the vision indicators are timely and relevant to the needs of all community members. • 70 percent agreed that the vision indicators are well aligned to the draft core values and mission. • 74.3 percent agreed that the initiative goals are clearly slated, specific and well-defined. • 58.8 percent agreed that the goals are timely and relevant to the needs of all community members. • 66.6 percent agreed that the goals are well aligned to the draft mission and vision. Hearns discussed the foundational elements, which include a set of norms — starting and ending on time, speaking your truth, voicing and responding to concerns only, actively listening and participating, being courteous and respectful to community members, emphasizing a nojudgement zone and for everyone to assume good intentions. While Chapman discussed the mission statement of the CEII, Greco detailed the
group’s values statements and ways to make Cranford a more accepting and inclusive community as part of the strategic planning process. “Residents and visitors alike need to feel safe and secure in Cranford. Equity increases opportunity. People benefit from differences that will ultimately bring us together,” Greco said during the recording. “There should be increased mindfulness and empathy for cultural differences. Implicit bias exists in Cranford. This fact must be recognized. Each of us has opinions, perspectives and differences that should be respected, understood and considered. Communication is key to include all members of the community. The need to recruit diverse candidates in municipal government and public schools is key to fostering equity and inclusion. Respect begins in the home and will eventually spread to the community. … We, the police, should do more than just enforce laws. We must ensure protection and service to all in Cranford.” Miller Prunty discussed the group’s vision statements, which acknowledge and value diversity; recognize that Cranford is a community where all people feel safe and welcomed; and establish opportunities for all members to communicate, collaborate and learn from one another. She said participating in community programs and training activities that proactively encourage inclusivity and acceptance helps reduce acts of violence, bias and intolerance in the local and extended community, leading to a reduction in the number of unsubstantiated calls for service to the police department, which appear to be motivated solely on race/ethnicity or appearance. “Regularly held collaborative and educational community events promote respect for other religions, languages and cultures,” said Miller Prunty. “Communication methods in order to reach all segments of the commu-
nity have improved. The staffing of all publicly funded positions should represent diversity. Business ownership and employees are more diverse. Public perception indicates that the police do more than just enforce the law; they fairly and respectfully protect and serve individuals as well as the entire community. There are opportunities to resolve police calls for service that result in referrals to community programs rather than placement into the criminal justice system. Regarding the group's goal statements, which includes improving communication methods in order to reach all segments of the community, Miller Prunty urged the creation of programs and activities that encourage inclusivity, acceptance and interaction, and reduce acts of bias and intolerance in the local and extended community. Brown spoke about the group moving forward with those goals, mentioning their upcoming sessions for this month and next month.
“The CEII is in the process of engaging our community in an exciting journey of reflection and growth. It has been my distinct honor and privilege to participate in this initiative,” he said. “The CEII has worked tirelessly over the past few years with members of the community to identify and develop the statements on missions, values, vision and goals, which were just presented. It has been an awarding and inspiring experience to be a part of this initiative. To experience the openness and energy of those involved, you now have an opportunity to share in this process of introspection and growth as we move forward.” A series of action planning sessions have been scheduled, for Nov. 15, Nov. 29, Nov. 30, Dec. 8 and Dec. 9. These sessions are open to everyone who wishes to participate. Residents are encouraged to register for any of the goal setting meetings they would like to attend through https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TJZ7 383 or by email at cranfordequityandinclusivity@gmail.com.
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Cranford Life — December 2021 — 11
Photo Courtesy of Cranford
GRANTS AWARDED — Cranford Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty is joined by Deputy Mayor Brian Andrews, Commissioner Jason Gareis, township administrator Jamie Cryan and recreation director Steve Robertazzi to announce grant awards presented by Union County Commissioners Bette Jane Kowalski and Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. Cranford received funding for improvements at various playgrounds, recreation sites and buildings, and for the care of trees. Cranford received $60,000 for the playground at Johnson Park, the Hillside Avenue Tennis Courts and Adams Park; $2,500 for Hanson House; and a $2,500 Greening Union County grant for trees.
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12 — December 2021 — Cranford Life
Photos Courtesy of Kerry Rokicki
Above left, Cranford Girl Scouts honor those who earned the Bronze Award, the highest honor a Girl Scout Junior can achieve. Above right,
members of Girl Scout Troop 40744 drop off Birthdays in Box projects to Isaiah House.
Girl Scouts of Cranford honors Bronze Award recipients The Girl Scouts of Cranford Service Unit 48 honored four troops for earning the Bronze Award, the highest honor a Junior Girl Scout can achieve. The awards were earned while the troops were in fourth and fifth grade, but the recognition ceremony was delayed to accommodate COVID-19 safety protocols. “The Bronze Award allows Girl Scout Juniors to team up and make a difference in their communities. Through collaboration, they learn new skills, explore passions and see how small actions can make a big difference,” said Elayna Torsone, manager of Service Unit 48. “After a delay due to COVID, we were so happy to be able to recognize their achievements in person.” Troop 40098 created an Ambassador Program at Saint Michael School in Cranford. Designed to help new students feel welcome and comfortable, the program included a buddy component, as well as FaceTime meetings when students were
not able to meet in person due to safety concerns. Troop 40688 focused on boosting the pollinator population in Cranford. The troop members researched plants and pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, raised funds through bake sales and planted 20 pollinator-friendly plants in the community garden at Walnut Avenue Elementary School in Cranford. Troop 40744 created birthday-themed boxes for children in need. The boxes included everything required for a special celebration and were distributed through a partnership with Isaiah House, a nonprofit organization that works to prevent homelessness, hunger and unemployment in the Oranges and Newark. Troop 40772 collaborated on a project to reduce single-use plastics and educated the public on how to recycle items such as plastic films and wrappers. Working with Trex Recycling, they established eight locations in Cranford to collect plastic
films, such as dry-cleaning bags, shrinkwrap and other thin, plastic packaging. During the campaign, it collected a whopping 2,896 pounds of these lightweight materials. The Bronze Award recipients, who were recognized for their achievements at a special ceremony at the Cranford United Methodist Church, are Abigail Behnke, Callie Blanton, Sophie Botsakos, Madeleine Brennan, Sarah Burnett, Annabelle Burns, Addison Deal, Kerrington Esteves, Mia Ferrara, Peyton Geis, Riley Greco, Clare Harrington, Margaret Harris, Alexis Jankowski, Melody Jennings, Riley McKeon, Emily O’Neill, Sara Phillips, Sadie Pizzella, Elliza Scardino, Leila Schuster, Ella Seeto, Clare Shuler, Addison Stroh, Caroline Tierney, Kaylee Werthmann, Megan Wukovitz and Adelaide Yurcisin. The troop leaders were also honored: Heather Burnett and Jeanine Stroh of Troop 40098; Erin Esteves and Stephanie
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Patterson of Troop 40688; Jen Geis, Kristin Ferrara and Denise Alvarez of Troop 40744; and Andrea Yurcisin and Tracee Blanton of Troop 40772. The Girl Scouts of Cranford boasts more than 1,139 Girl Scout members in 71 troops and Juliettes, making it one of the largest nonprofit organizations in town. The Cranford Service Unit is a part of the Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey Council, which is part of the Girl Scouts of the USA. To find out more information on the Girls Scouts of Cranford, visit www.cranfordgirlscouts.com. See more photos, facing page.
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Cranford Life — December 2021 — 13
Photos Courtesy of Kerry Rokicki
Above left, members of Girl Scout Troop 40688 select plants known to attract pollinators, critical members of the ecosystem. Above right, Girl Scout Troop 40772 members make a presentation at the Cranford Con-
servation Center to establish a plastic film recycling program. Below, Girl Scout Troop 40098 is recognized for its service project, which establishes a friendship program at Saint Michael School in Cranford.
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IN MEMORIAM • BOBER – Alexander Jr., of Cranford; Nov. 13. Vietnam War Army veteran. Worked for Amerada Hess for 35 years. Husband, father, brother, grandfather, 77. • BRANNA – August A., of Cranford; Oct. 31. Insurance professional, founder of The Branna Agency in Mountainside. Army vet. Husband, father, grandfather, 87. • DUSCH-CHAVERN – Mary Rose, of Cranford; formerly of Chicago, Cleveland and San Francisco; Oct. 29. Union County Youth Services Bureau director. Mother, sister, grandmother, 95. • FREDA – Gerald R., of Cranford; Oct. 26. Vice president of F&R Industrial Supply in Kenilworth. Member of Kenilworth Manufacturer’s Association. Businessman, brother, uncle, 77. • LEONARD – Mildred Marie, of Cranford; Oct. 16. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, 94. • MICHAEL – Jane E., of Clark, formerly of Cranford; Nov. 4. Retired home economics teacher at Cranford and Westfield high schools. Wife, mother, sister, grandmother, 83. • MOORE – Deborah Ann, of Colorado Springs, Colo., formerly of Cranford; Nov. 6. Wife, mother, sister, 72. • REYNOLDS – Sandra, of Cranford; Oct. 21. Mother, sister, 81. • SULLIVAN – Kay, of Mountainside, formerly of Cranford and Linden; Oct. 21. Worked at Topper Toys. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 94.
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.
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14 — December 2021 — Cranford Life
Photos Courtesy of JR Parachini
Above left, Cranford’s outstanding offensive line comprises, from left, Kyle Fay, No. 67; Matt Fries, No. 58; Ryan Heesters, No. 62; Kevin Shriner, No. 77; and Geoffrey Gretta, No. 57. Above right, Cranford head coach Erik Rosenmeier reminds his Cougars that they still need to win one more game to capture a state championship.
Above left, Cranford players celebrate being 10-0 for the third time in program history. The last time was in 2015. Above right, Cranford senior quarterback Shane Van Dam, pictured adjusting his helmet, rushed for one touchdown and passed for two more in his team’s 42-7 home playoff win against Pascack Valley.
Cranford dominates Pascack Valley in 42-7 playoff win By JR Parachini Sports Editor Although Cranford won its first playoff game by 30 points, head coach Erik Rosenmeier challenged his defensive line to perform better against the run. So when it came time for Pascack Valley runners to try to penetrate Cranford’s first line of defense, they found no room at all to move forward. In other words, the visiting Panthers were stuffed time and time again. Cranford’s defense stepped its game up and set the tone for a long evening of football for its Bergen County counterpart. Of its first eight rushing attempts, Pascack Valley went for minus yardage on six of them and zero on the other two. The Panthers had minus 12 yards of total offense after their first three possessions and did not enter positive yardage until the next time they had the ball. Cranford limited Pascack Valley to just 3 yards rushing on 18 carries in the first half and only 66 total yards by intermission. It was complete dominance, as Pascack Valley running backs were halted for negative or very little yardage on most carries. “We watched game films with a critical eye,” Rosenmeier said. “We had to improve on technique and effort. In the playoffs, you don’t have time to have a bad game.” Offensively, Cranford could not be
stopped. The Cougars scored touchdowns on six of their eight first-half possessions, with senior quarterback Shane Van Dam scoring the first one and passing for two others to senior receivers Jack Conley and Will Gallagher. Standout senior running back Colin Murray broke two long touchdown runs, and senior running back Lucca Limeira scored on a 1-yard run after breaking a long run of 52 yards himself. Murray now has 29 touchdowns on the season. Cranford rushed for 261 yards on 19 carries in the first half, while Van Dam completed four of nine passes for 81 yards, including his two touchdown passes. “We knew what Pascack Valley was capable of, so it was important for us to be ready to go right away,” Cranford senior offensive lineman Matt Fries said. “Blocking means a lot to us, the offensive linemen, and we concentrated on opening the holes.” It all added up to a convincing 42-7 win for the Cougars over fourth-seeded Pascack Valley in the North 2, Group 3, semifinal at Memorial Field on Friday, Nov. 12. In the first half alone, Murray carried the ball nine times for 210 yards and his two scores. Limeira had 59 yards rushing on six carries and his score. Top-seeded Cranford (10-0) will host second-seeded Sparta (8-3) for the North 2, Group 3, state championship game on
NORTH 2, GROUP 3, SEMIFINAL AT MEMORIAL FIELD Pascack Valley (7-4) 0 0 7 0–7 Cranford (10-0) 21 21 0 0 – 42 FIRST QUARTER: CRANFORD — Shane Van Dam 2 run, Liam Godwin kick (C 7-0) 10 plays, 55 yards, 2:53 used CRANFORD — Jack Conley 38 pass from Shane Van Dam, Liam Godwin kick (C 14-0) 2 plays, 48 yards, :37 used CRANFORD — Colin Murray 67 run, Liam Godwin kick (C 21-0) 1 play, 67 yards, :09 used
Friday, Nov. 19. Sparta won at home over third-seeded River Dell 42-0 in the other semifinal on Friday, Nov. 12. Cranford has scored 98 points in its first two playoff victories, including last week’s 56-26 home triumph against eighth-seeded Demarest. The Cougars will be playing in their fourth state championship game since 2011. Cranford won the North 2, Group 3, finals in 2011 and 2015 and lost in 2014. Cranford is 10-0 for the third time in program history. The last time was in 2015, en route to a 12-0 final record that included the program’s second state championship, when the Cougars won North 2, Group 3, for the second time in five seasons. Pascack Valley saw a fine season conclude at 7-4. On the first play of the game following Cranford’s opening squib kick, Cranford senior defensive back Angelo Fiorenza brought down Pascack Valley senior quarterback Ethan Silcher from behind for a solo tackle, netting a 5-yard loss. Cranford senior linebacker Jake Lies brought down Panther senior running back Nick Messina for a 2-yard loss the second time Pascack Valley had possession. On the very next play, senior linebacker Chris Blevins sacked Silcher for a 9-yard loss. Fiorenza and Blevins combined to
bring down Silcher for a 3-yard loss when Pascack Valley had a third-and-3 at its own 45 late in the first quarter. An interception by Godwin set up Cranford’s fourth touchdown, which was a 19-yard pass Van Dam threw to Gallagher. On first-and-10 from the Pascack Valley 19, Van Dam dropped back and let go of what turned out to be a perfect throw to Gallagher over his shoulders, as Gallagher reeled it in ahead of single coverage and right before he was to step in the left corner of the end zone. Cranford junior defensive back Ryan Lynskey came up with an interception on the final play of the first half that was deep in Cougar territory, preventing the Panthers from scoring right before halftime. Senior defensive back Bryce Medard had Cranford’s third and final interception inside the game’s final minute. Cranford did not turn the ball over at all. The Cougars also recovered a fumble in the first half, with senior Dan Abrahamsen falling on the ball after a Cranford kickoff bounced off a Pascack Valley player. With Cranford ahead 42-0 starting the third quarter, the mercy rule running clock ran the entire second half. Pascack Valley got on the scoreboard in the third quarter, when wide receiver Nick Savariego raced down the left sideline for a 40-yard touchdown run.
SECOND QUARTER: CRANFORD — Will Gallagher 19 pass from Shane Van Dam, Liam Godwin kick (C 28-0) 3 plays, 58 yards, 1:05 used Cranford capitalized on a turnover, an interception by Liam Godwin. CRANFORD — Colin Murray 64 run, Liam Godwin kick (C 35-0) 1 play, 64 yards, :12 used CRANFORD — Lucca Limeira 1 run, Liam Godwin kick (C 42-0) 2 plays, 53 yards, :35 used THIRD QUARTER: PASCACK VALLEY — Nick Savariego 40 run, Joaquin Grijalva kick (C 42-7)
Cranford Life — December 2021 — 15
Cranford receives 2021 children’s recreation grant award The Union County Board of County Commissioners announced that grants have been awarded to 20 municipalities for improvements to recreation resources for children, through the Kids Recreation Trust Fund. In addition, 19 municipalities were awarded matching grants for planting new trees through the Greening Union County program. Cranford received $60,000 for indoor tennis court renovation, Johnson Park beautification and the Adams Avenue Field concession stand from the 2021
round of the Kids Recreation Trust Fund. Cranford also received $2,500 through the 2021 round of the Greening Union County grant program. Both grant programs are funded through the Union County Open Space, Recreation and Historic Preservation Trust Fund. “Since 2000, the Open Space Trust Fund has helped maintain, improve and expand our public recreation and open space resources,” said Commissioner Chairperson Alexander Mirabella. “The pandemic has awakened a new spirit to
reconnect with the outdoors, making these grant programs all the more important throughout the Union County community.” “These two grant programs enhance the quality of life in our urban and suburban communities by providing assistance to local recreation programs for children and by helping municipalities create beneficial treescapes,” said Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, who is the chairperson of the commissioner board’s Open Space, Recreation and Historic Preservation Trust Fund.
The Open Space, Recreation and Historic Preservation Trust Fund was established by popular referendum in 2000. It has given the commissioner board the ability to preserve more than 315 acres of land throughout Union County. In addition to acquisition of land, creation of parkland and updating of recreational facilities throughout the county, the grant programs of the trust fund provide an avenue for municipalities to focus on their hometown recreational priorities, increase tree plantings and stabilize and restore historic sites.
UCC one of 150 U.S. community colleges eligible for 2023 Aspen Prize The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program on Tuesday, Nov. 2, named Union County College as one of 150 institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. Union County College was chosen for this honor among more than 1,000 community colleges nationwide based on having high and improving levels of student success, as well as on its equitable outcomes for black and Hispanic students and those from lower-income backgrounds. The 150 eligible colleges have been invited to submit data and narratives as the next steps in an intensive data and practice review process, culminating in the announcement of the prize winner in spring 2023. Union County College was first recognized as an Aspen Prize Top 150 U.S. Community College in 2019. “At Union County College, every day we live our mission of transforming our community, one student at a time. We are honored that the Aspen Institute is recog-
nizing Union once again as an elite community college based on the incredible efforts of our faculty and staff, and the support of the college’s boards and Union County Board of County Commissioners. Students are No. 1 at Union and we are committed to equity and diversity at our campuses. The invitation by the Aspen Institute to apply once again for this prestigious award is an acknowledgement of our commitment to student success,” said UCC President Margaret M. McMenamin. The Aspen Prize spotlights exemplary community colleges to elevate the sector, drive attention to colleges doing the best work, and discover and share highly effective student success and equity strategies. Since 2010, Aspen has chosen to focus intensively on community college because they are — as first lady Jill Biden said at the 2021 Aspen Prize ceremony — “a powerful engine of prosperity.” Student outcomes vary enormously among community
colleges and improving those outcomes is essential to securing our nation’s economic future, strengthening communities and ensuring that diverse populations experience economic mobility and prosperity. With these goals in mind, the Aspen Prize honors colleges with outstanding achievement in five critical areas: teaching and learning, certificate and degree completion, transfer and bachelor’s attainment, workforce success, and equity for students of color and students from low-income backgrounds. “In an era of persistent inequity and workforce talent gaps, our nation’s best community colleges are stepping up to deliver more degrees to increasingly diverse students so they are prepared for the good jobs waiting to be filled,” said Josh Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. For a full list of the 150 eligible institutions and to read more about the selection process, visit www.highered.aspeninstitute.org/aspen-prize.
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16 — December 2021 — Cranford Life
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Christmas Shoppe and Soup Festival comes to Cranford The Cranford United Methodist Church will host its ninth annual Christmas Holiday Shoppe and Soup Fest on Saturday, Dec. 11, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This is a family-friendly event where children and adults alike can do their holiday shopping. Dozens of vendors will offer merchandise, crafts and gifts. Homemade soups will be available as part of the event, and soups packaged in quarts and pints will be available for takeout while supplies last. Baked goods will be available for purchase, too. Children’s book author Laura Sassi will read from her new book, “Little Ewe.” The Shanyse Strickland Quartet will perform as well. The event will take place in the church’s education building at 201 Lincoln Ave. Admission and parking are free. For more information, call Marti Noble at 908-276-0936 or send an email to office@cranfordumc.com.
Patrons choose from a wide variety of items at last year’s Cranford United Methodist Church Christmas Holiday Shoppe and Soup Fest.
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