Cranford Radio: Recent Episodes
Bernie Wagenblast
The final show of the 2025-2026 Cranford Dramatic Club season is a classic, "Fiddler on the Roof." The musical won three Tony Awards, including Best Musical. On this episode I speak with Emma Taylor Schwartz, the director and choreographer, Larry Brustofski, who plays Tevye and Elle Michaeli who plays his wife, Golda.
Purchase tickets
"It Shoulda Been You" had its debut in New Brunswick, New Jersey at the George Street Playhouse. It later went on to a Broadway run. The musical farce is back in the Garden State at the Cranford Dramatic Club. The show runs from February 13 through March 1.
Three members of the show chatted with Cranford Radio about the production; Zach Mazouat, the director; Rachel Love (Jenny Steinberg) and Sean Lynch-Littlejohn (Albert, the wedding planner).
Tickets are available online.
Starting January 1, Cranford High School principal Mark Cantagallo will be the superintendent of the Cranford Public Schools. On this episode of Cranford Radio, I chat with Mark to learn about his background, how the transition is going and some of his plans for the schools in the years ahead.
For many men, getting a suit or sports coat means going to a store and buying it off the rack. For some men, however, the process is more involved. That's where Rob Breslau comes in. Rob, who grew up in Cranford, serves a clientele who are willing to spend more to get clothing custom made for them.
Rob owns Prestige Custom Wear and he chats with me about how the business works, the type of clients he serves and how the industry has changed as the business world has become more casual.
Mark Manto' first took drum lessons as a child. The love of music never left. Mark's a triple threat as a musician, singer and composer. He's putting the finishing touches on a new album, The Rocky Hill, and he joins me on the podcast to talk about his Cranford connections, the wide range of musical genres he performs and dreams of someday playing in front of a stadium filled with screaming fans.
Mark's music
In the movie Jaws the shark was terrifying. In real life, the mechanical shark, known by the actors and crew as "Bruce" was a mechanical nightmare. This first show of the Cranford Dramatic Club's 2025-2026 season is a comedy that looks at how the three main actors in the film dealt with the delays and each other during the filming.
On this week's podcast I'm joined by director Mike Burdick, Patrick Blood (Richard Dreyfuss), Bill Geltzeiler (Roy Scheider) and Mike Patierno (Robert Shaw).
Skybreak, aka Jack Ramsay, is a Cranford musician who released his album, Half Blood, this month. As a relatively new artist, Jack does it all with his music; writing, recording, and promotion, to name just a few responsibilities. Shows this year have included Tokyo, Southern California, Detroit and Portland, Oregon.
On this week's podcast we chat about what led him to into music, and electronic dance music in particular. We also discuss the business side of music, from selling your creations to selling merch to fans.
The Declaration of Independence was passed by the Second Continental Congress 249 years ago today. New Jersey is filled with a number of sites connected to the American Revolution, including here in Union County.
It's not only historic locations that have a connection with the past, but there are people who can trace their ancestry to that time period. Cranford resident Chris Sands is the president of the New Jersey Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. The SAR is active with a number of events connecting New Jersey to its revolutionary past.
After a career in the US Army, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel, Chris became involved in the SAR. We talk about the organization, his involvement and his connections to the birth of the United States.
In 2024 a new organization made its debut in town. PFLAG Cranford-Union wrote that it "hopes to be a beacon of support, advocacy, and education across Union County."
As you might imagine, June, as Pride Month, has been a busy season for the organization. Katie Webber, who serves as the non-profit's president, joins me on the podcast to talk about why the chapter was created, what it's doing and its goals.
During school days you'll find Sean W. Bagan in a CHS classroom teaching French. Outside of school hours he's working on a dystopian trilogy that takes place in a new world. The title of the first book, which was published this year, is "On Ravens & Riddles: From the Shelves of the Noktern."
Sean joins me on the podcast to not only discuss the book but why he was drawn to being an author and a bit of what he has planned.
There are many reasons a person will seek out a therapist. It might be due to a major life event or a long-brewing issue a person is trying to cope with. In other cases, someone may view therapy in the same way others go to the gym. They want to maintain or improve their health.
Serenium Therapy & Wellness opened their office in Cranford at 25 Commerce Drive in January. It joins offices in Brick and Manalapan.
Joining me on the podcast are Allison Devlin, Serenium's clinical director, and Keri Roberts, the marketing director.
From its Depression Era beginnings, the school now known as Union College of Union County, NJ, has sought to provide a path for students who might not be able to afford a four-year college education. That mission continues today and the Union County College Foundation is the means to assist students who need financial assistance. Its role today is more than just traditional scholarship help. For example, it also provides food assistance to students who are hungry.
Doug Rouse is UCNJ's Vice President for Institutional Advancement. He talks about the work of the foundation and how it serves students.
Christine Del Negro is a certified EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) practitioner and a mindfulness coach. One of the techniques she uses is a process called tapping. On this episode Christine talks about what tapping is and how it can be a useful practice in releasing stress and helping users.
Christine's business is School4joy and she talks about other aspects of her work and how people can use the techniques she teaches anytime on their own.
It's difficult to think of a tragedy more difficult to deal with as a child than the death of a parent or sibling. Kids don't deal with grief in the same way as adults and don't have the same tools to help them through the process.
Imagine is an organization formed to help children deal with their suffering. The non-profit offers a number of services and turns to the community to help support its work. One way is through Greta's Run, taking place on May 18.
This week on the podcast I talk with Imagine's executive director, Lindsay Schambach, and Bob Kelly, a Cranford resident who serves on the organization's board of trustees as treasurer.
Legally Blonde: The Musical closes out the 2024/2025 season of the Cranford Dramatic Club with a run from May 2 to May 18.
Three principles involved with the show are my guests this week on the podcast. They are Edgar Hildago, the director, Jaimie Bass, the choreographer and Melissa Calicchio, who plays Elle Woods, the lead of the show.
For the fifth year, the Cranford Film Festival will take place at the Cranford Theater. The festival is just one part of Arts Day, which will also feature, weather permitting, performances at Eastman Clock Plaza. Money raised through the day's activities benefits the Cranford Schools Friends of Performing Arts.
My guests on this week's episode are Stephanie Levine Ashinoff, Anne Marie Bornstad and Kristine Gaffney.
Often when I do an interview on the podcast I feel as if I'm introducing a person to the Cranford community. In this week's episode, I don't feel that's necessary. Matt Nazzaro grew up in town and has spent his career as a Cranford police officer. In December Matt was sworn-in as the Cranford Police Department's 12th police chief.
While Matt is well known by the Cranford community I hope you'll still learn a few things about him and his plans as police chief.
John Patterson grew up in Cranford. After high school he worked for about eight years at the Cranford Public Library. More recently, he's lived in Brooklyn. On Thursday, April 17, his latest play, The Last Supper, will debut in the Gene Frankel Theater at 24 Bond Street in Manhattan.
John is my guest on this episode. We talk about the creative process, the play and his growing up years in Cranford.
Many fields have pinnacle awards. Of course there's the Tony Award on Broadway and the Pulitizer for journalism. Among community colleges, the Aspen Prize is considered by many as the top award. This year, UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ is one of ten finalists for the prize. The announcement of the winner comes April 17 in Washington, DC.
This week on the podcast I speak with Dr. Bernard Polnariev, the Vice President for Administrative Services at UCNJ. We chat not only about the Aspen Prize but about how both community colleges and their students are evolving.
In October 2024 Cranford Radio featured its first AI-hosted podcast. It was amazing and scary.
As the technology continues to evolve, there's a new experimental program by a company called Sesame. In a demo available online you can chat live with one of two voices; Maya and Miles. Both have distinct personalities. In this week's episode I have Maya as my guest.
I wanted to not only demonstrate the technology but to show what this particular AI program knows about Cranford. We talk about topics such as the Rahway River, Downtown Cranford and CHS. The interview is only lightly edited to show some of the challenges of talking to a computer in real time.
Emilio DiFabio's first line in a performance was "Chop the tree." Since that inauspicious beginning, Emilio's roles have become much more noteworthy. Most recently, he plays the role of the coroner in American Trash. While being an actor is his latest adventure, he continues working at his company, DiFabio Construction.
On this week's podcast he talks about how he became involved in acting but also about his Cranford-based firm.
When you stop to think about it we're pitching all the time. It might be something informal, such as telling a friend about a great restaurant they should try. Sometimes the stakes are higher. You want a potential customer to buy your product or service or you're hoping to convince investors to finance your business idea.
Lori Stahl Liegeois has spent a career crafting pitches. Now she and her business, The Pitch Collective, are helping others refine their abilities to create effective pitches for their own businesses. Lori is my guest on this week's Cranford Radio podcast.
It's been less than a year that Cranford Neighbors has been published. In that time, the magazine has featured a number of families in town. They come from a variety of backgrounds but they all have wonderful stories to tell.
The man behind the publication is Pete Coates. The periodical also includes day trips, recipes and more and it's made possible by area businesses which advertise in the monthly.
This week I turn the tables on Pete and showcase his story and how Cranford Neighbors came to be.
In the 1980s Karen Coburn was attending Cranford High School. Some of her friends and their families had become involved with The People of Hope, a Catholic covenant community. Many years later, after moving to Los Angeles, Karen became interested in what happened to the group and those from Cranford who became a part of it. That interest led to an eight-episode podcast series called Shadow of Hope.
Karen is my guest on this week's episode to discuss the group and her podcast.
Given the many Cranford residents who claim some Irish heritage, it might be surprising to learn that there's never been a St. Patrick's Day parade in town. That changes on March 16 when the community's first such parade will kickoff at 1 pm at the Community Center and wind it way down Walnut and North Union avenues.
Two of the people behind the march are Mayor Terrance Curran and Barry O'Donovan.
Barry is the former owner of Kilkenny House. I interviewed Barry in 2014.
A number of businesses and individuals are sponsoring the festivities. Cougar Headquarters is selling merchandise to help deck you out.
I speak with Barry and Terry on this week's Cranford Radio podcast.
July will mark the second anniversary of the start of the Rev. Marc Vicari's pastorate at St. Michael Church. The Cranford assignment is just one of a number of roles Father Marc has had during his ministry. These include campus ministry, working for the Newark Archdiocese, and teaching.
On today's episode I speak with Father Marc to learn more about his background, including his years growing up in New Jersey, his time as a student at Seton Hall University and a return to campus to study for the priesthood at the Immaculate Conception Seminary.
In the early 1980s a new, little understood disease was primarily affecting two marginalized groups of people; gay men and intravenous drug users. The deadly ailment which, at the time, had no known treatment, sparked widely varying reactions.
Angels in America looks at the AIDS crisis in New York City in the mid 1980s. Cranford Radio spoke with five people involved in the Cranford Dramatic Club production; Michael Kidney (director), Richard J. Colonna (Roy Cohn), Molly Reinhardt (Harper Pitt), Corey Chichizola (Prior Walter) and Aaron Hancock (Belize).
The play will run weekends from February 14 through March 1. Tickets are available online and at the box office on performance days.
Lori Talbot grew up in Cranford and shortly after graduating college returned to town to start a 33-year career as a teacher at Hillside Avenue School.
Since retiring she's found new opportunities to use her creative skills as a columnist and content creator. She writes a monthly column for Cranford Neighbors and also has a presence on Facebook and Instagram under Life with Lori.
She also works for New Jersey Blood Services, something that grew out of two deeply personal life experiences where her late husband and her daughter received blood transfusions as they battled health issues.
On January 30, there is a blood drive in Garwood in honor of her husband, Bob Talbot.
You know that voice. That thought you just can't shake or the one you know is there but you just can't quite hear what it's saying. Cranford resident Carly Berger Nguyen decided to listen to that voice after the birth of her children and leaving her job in the fashion industry. It led to her starting her life coaching and mindset business, Little Voice Big Matter.
Many of her clients are mothers such as herself. She helps them find that place in their lives that brings balance and fulfillment. In addition, she writes a blog which addresses many issues people confront.
On this Cranford Radio episode I chat with Carly about her business, the issues she often hears from clients, and a bit about her own journey.
For most of Richard Brown's adult life he has had a passion for repairing the world. In his case, that has largely involved addressing homelessness. In recognition of his work, the Cranford Clergy Council and the Cranford Interfaith Human Relations Committee has decided to present this year's Martin Luther King Jr. Award to Richard.
In this week's episode I chat with Richard about his efforts and how he and his late wife, Jan, have made a difference.
The award will be presented at the community's annual Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Commemoration. It takes place at Calvary Tabernacle at 69 Myrtle Street at 7 pm on Thursday, January 16.
Many people in Cranford have attended a play or musical in New York City. While you see the performers on stage there's a lot you don't see that makes the show possible. Cranford resident Christy Ney has worked extensively in theater including stints with the Tony Award-winning Side Man, the first national tour of The Lion King and 14 years in the New York City production of Wicked.
Today, she teaches, does free lance work as a stage manager (and more), and is involved with the arts community in Cranford.
Calvary Lutheran Church will host this annual event the evening of Thursday, December 19. The event is organized by the Union County Interfaith Coordinating Council. One of the leaders of the organization, Rev. Carmine Pernini, the pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Rahway, spoke with me about the event.
As sung in one of the signature songs from the musical, the next Cranford Dramatic Club production is a "tale as old as time." However familiar this story may be, there will still be some surprises as the CDC presents Disney's Beauty and the Beast in December.
Cranford Radio spoke with three of the cast members, Avamichelina Hodgens (Belle), Zach Love (Beast) and Sean Lynch-Littlejohn (Lumier) to get a sneak peak at the musical.
The Cranford Public Library's current building opened in 1962. While the main library has expanded over the years, the children's room has basically maintained the same footprint. That's going to be changing.
Starting in the new year, construction will begin on an expansion of the children's room. Joining me on this week's podcast is Kathy Cannarozzi, the director of the Cranford Public Library. We talk about how the library will change, the funding and the schedule.
Additional information on library expansion
If you're old enough to remember the late 1990s you may recall the hype and excitement about the dawning of the internet age. Some predictions came true, other promises fizzled. Today, artificial intelligence is having a similar moment.
For this week's episode I turned to Google's NotebookLM. I uploaded articles about me from The New York Times and The Washington Post, as well as a piece I wrote and presented on CBS Mornings. The results are amazing and scary. You have to listen carefully to realize these are AI-generated hosts.
Narcan, generically known as naloxone, is a medication that can reverse or reduce the effects of an opioid overdose. You do not need to be a medical professional to administer Narcan.
The Cranford Prevention & Wellness Alliance, together with the Cranford Police Department, is sponsoring a free Narcan training and distribution event at the Cranford Community Center. It will be on Tuesday, October 15 between 7 and 8:30 pm.
On this week's episode I speak with Karen Bennett from the Alliance and Captain Matt Nazzaro from the Cranford Police Department about the event and how Narcan is used.
Community Access Unlimited has provided training, housing and employment services to those with developmental disabilities since its founding in 1979. One of CAU's newest ventures is the T.eat.ch Café, where members can learn and practice various aspects of running a restaurant.
On this week's episode I speak with Sandie Lynch, CAU's associate executive director, and Joshua Moreines, a Cranford resident and graduate of the program.
In some ways the story of Rev. Dr. Deborah Brooks is the story of returning. First, there was her returning to live in Cranford after spending the first ten years of her life in town. There was also returning to St. Mark AME church, first as a member and then as the pastor.
In this week's episode hear about Rev. Brooks journey, a bit about the congregation and an upcoming Family & Friends Day to which the community is invited.
Fans of anime are likely familiar with Yu-Gi-Oh!. Two of the main characters on the series are Marik Ishtar and Yami Marik. Both were voice by Cranford resident Jonathan Todd Ross. Today, Jonathan is a prolific audiobook narrator, having narrated nearly 500 books.
On this week's Cranford Radio episode we talk about both roles, including getting an inside look at what goes into voicing an audiobook and how technology has and continues to change the business.
On Monday, August 12, the bloodmobile will be at the Community Center between 1 and 7 pm. Donors on Monday will be get a voucher for tickets to a Mets game.
This week's guest on the podcast is Genevieve Toscano, an account manager with New Jersey Blood Services, a division of the New York Blood Center. We chat about why the need for blood increases during the summer, the different types blood donations that can be made and some of the misconceptions about donating blood.
Cranford's TV-35 has been broadcasting for over three and a half decades. Don Smith is coming up on his one-year anniversary as the station's manager and he joins me on this week's podcast to talk about the changes that have happened at TV-35 during the past year.
TV-35 today is available in far more ways that it once was. A live stream makes it available to viewers around the world. Previous shows can be viewed on demand via a YouTube channel and Verizon FiOS subscribers can watch the channel in HD on channel 2147.
Savor Snack Shop hopes to be opening at 18 North Union Avenue in early August. On this episode of Cranford Radio I speak with Jason Sanchez who, along with his wife Michele Santo, is a co-owner of the business.
We talk about some of the products the store will carry, his previous retail experience and why he picked Downtown Cranford.
We like to think of childhood as a time of growing, learning and exploring. For some kids, however, they need adults outside their family to advocate for them when they are impacted by, or in danger of, abuse and neglect.
Child Focus, formerly known as CASA of Passaic and Union Counties, provides professionals and volunteers to look out for the best interests of these children as they move through the legal and child welfare systems.
On this episode I speak with Erica Fischer-Kaslander, Executive Director of Child Focus, and Phyllis Dunlop, a Child Focus volunteer and Cranford resident.
An art form which has drawn fans from around the world will be featured at the Cranford Community Center on Saturday, July 20. Tosho-con brings together not just manga and anime but cosplay, workshops, special guests and more.
Joining me this week on the podcast is Marissa Lieberman, the head of reference services for the Cranford Public Library. We talk about the event and, for those unfamiliar with what anime, cosplay and manga are, we give you a quick lesson in the terms.
Folks who have been around Cranford for awhile will remember Builders General Supply Company. The business had its start in 1931 on Centennial Avenue. The store was founded, and is still owned, by the Shaheen Family.
In this episode of Cranford Radio I speak with TJ Shaheen, the executive vice president of Builders General. We talk not only about the firm, but about his family which once owned a silk mill in town and was responsible for building over 200 homes in the community.
Click this link to watch a film of Builders General in 1941.
Liz Cavallaro and Bree Fram know something about leadership. Liz teaches military leaders as the US Naval War College and Bree is a colonel in the US Space Force. The two combined to write a newly published book, Forging Queer Leaders. In June I had the opportunity to chat with both of them during an author talk sponsored by the Cranford Public Library and the Cranford Unity Project.
Thanks to Cranford's TV 35 for recording the session.
A veteran finds herself torn between oaths she took for her country and her family. That's the premise of Bloodoath of the Patriots, a book published this year by Cranford resident Ben Chewey.
On this week's episode we talk about the book, his time in Cranford schools, both as a student and a substitute teacher, and his plans for future literary endeavors.
On this week's episode I'm revisiting an 1891 murder case in Lower Manhattan. Over 133 years later, the case still draws interest. A Cranford resident, George Damon, played a role in this unsolved crime.
On this week's episode I speak with How Brown, co-author, along with his wife Nina, of a book about the homicide, East Side Story: 1891 Murder Case of Carrie Brown.
Following the retirement of Rev. Carol Lindsay, who served the church for many years, Calvary Lutheran Church has called Rev. Kathryn Irwin to be pastor. Cranford Radio chatted with Pastor Kat about her growing up years in rural Pennsylvania, why she decided to become a pastor and about her personal journey identifying as queer.
The newest member of the Cranford Township Committee is Paul A. Gallo. In this episode of Cranford Radio we get to know a bit about Paul, including his work life, why he decided to serve on the committee and some of what he hopes to accomplish.
While the YWCA Union County has been serving the community for over a century, they had a forced new beginning in 2019 when their headquarters in Elizabeth burned to the ground. The building may have been lost, but the work continued. Today, the organization is preparing to move into a rebuilt facility.
On this week's episode, I speak with Kathryn Lynch, the interim executive director and Cranford resident Laura Johnson, who serves as the vice president of the board. We chat about the work of the organization, especially how they assist survivors of domestic abuse.
For over two decades Downtown Cranford streets have hosted Sunday street fairs. A new vendor, Marketspace Vendor Events, is behind the event taking place Sunday, May 19th. The company is owned by Cranford residents Kim and Kevin Kraemer. The event is run by the Cranford Area Chamber of Commerce.
On this week's podcast I speak with Kevin and Kim, as well as Gina Tipton, the executive director of the chamber.
A lot has changed when it comes to hair since the Cranford Barber Shop opened. Crew cuts gave way to long hair. Getting a haircut also meant getting a shave for many men and while they were waiting they might have their shoes shined.
The shop, which had its last day on April 27, cut the hair on countless Cranford kids and adults. It was one of the first barber shops in town to also cut the hair of women and girls.
On the day after the closure, I visited the store to talk with two family members, Rich Marsiglia and Mark Manto about memories they have of the shop and why they had to shut the doors.
On a happy note, it's been announced the shop will be reopening at 108 Walnut Avenue in June.
There's much about the current political state in the US that is shared with the 1960s. Both periods are seen by many as a time of division. Anti-war protests and civil rights are very much in the news. The Cranford Dramatic Club brings us back to the 1960s with the final production of their current season with a production of Hair.
Cranford Radio speaks with director/choreographer Michael Kidney, as well as cast members Griffin Gartlgruber (Claude), Tyler Vanterpool (Hud), Amanda Malone (Sheila) and Lauren McCoig (a member of the Tribe), to learn more about this production.
Most major building projects in Cranford require hearings and approval of the Cranford Planning Board. If you're not involved yourself in a project, you may not be aware of the board does.
On this week's podcast I speak with the chair of the Planning Board, Molly Kellett, to learn about what the board does and how it does its work.
A Cranford-based organization, the UCEDC, working with Downtown Cranford and the Cranford Theater is holding a four-part series designed to give Cranford business owners tools they can use to grow their business.
Mary Adelman, a business consultant with the UCEDC, will be leading one of the sessions. She's my guest this week on Cranford Radio to talk about the program and how business owners can benefit from both the sessions and the networking opportunities.
It's National Library Week and to mark the occasion my guest on this episode of the Cranford Radio podcast is Kathy Cannarozzi, the director of the Cranford Public Library. We chat about a variety of topics including her first year at the library, the plans to expand the children's section and the CPL's role as a book sanctuary.
Often, the highway infrastructure of the state is taken for granted. We hop in our cars and drive from place to place with little thought of what's necessary to let it happen. When something goes wrong, however, we quickly realize how fragile our infrastructure can be.
Chris Feinthel, Assistant Commissioner for Operations in the New Jersey Department of Transportation, grew up in Cranford never thinking he would be in charge of operations for a massive roadway system stretching from High Point to Cape Map Point. On this joint production of Cranford Radio and Transportation Radio, I talk with Chris about his job, what happens when weather throws a wrench into transportation and how NJDOT is making adjustments as climate change impacts the transportation infrastructure.
You may know Dinah Dunn through her work as a writer and reporter for TAPinto Cranford. Your grade school kids may know her through the books she's written for Scholastic Books.
On this week's podcast I talk to Dinah about what she's learned about Cranford since joining the online news site in September and how she writes to encourage young reluctant readers to pick up and read a book.
When you're a parent, especially with young children, you keep a close eye on your kids. You want to give them everything they need to thrive and you're on the lookout for any areas in which they need help.
It's a big moment when they say that first word, and from there advance to simple sentences and build their vocabulary. Some kids need help in developing their communication skills and that's where this week's guests comes in. Amanda Kukis is the owner of FUNctional Speech + Language and a Cranford resident. She works with young children, starting as young as 15-months, to overcome issues they may have with speech. We'll hear about some of the conditions she deals with and how she helps not only the children but their parents resolve these issues.
On this St. Patrick's Day weekend we talk with Cranford resident Jennifer Love. Jennifer was named the Irishwoman of the Year by the Union County Daughters of Ireland. The honor is just one facet of her story.
She is a long-time Realtor and currently manages the Westfield office of Weichert Realtors. She's also served as an advocate for Emma's Law, which would require school vehicles which transport special needs children be equipped with tracking and other equipment. Learn more in this week's Cranford Radio podcast.
A number of Cranford business have teamed with the Work Readiness Academy, part of the Union County Educational Services Commission, to prepare students for work following their schooling.
Josh Bornstein, director of the academy and a Cranford resident, joins me on the podcast this week to talk about the program. Also joining us on the episode is Dr. Lajja Patel, a dentist and owner of South Avenue Dental, and one of the business participants.
Serving as the township attorney is just one of the responsibilities of Ryan Cooper. In addition he has a law practice in town and he also serves as the chairman of the Cranford Democratic Municipal Committee.
On this week's episode we learn about his role as Cranford's lawyer and his years going to high school on Sandy Hook and how he spent the four years between high school and college.
"Peace, Love & Pancakes" is the phrase Toast City Diner uses to describe themselves. Truth is, they are much more than that. The restaurant at the corner of South and Walnut avenues has a menu that offers a variety of foods from breakfast staples such as omelettes to gourmet grilled cheese.
Co-owners Amy Russo and Adam Torine chat with me about the restaurant's beginnings, their years growing up in the business, and what attracted them to open their fourth store in Cranford.
As we come to Presidents Day Weekend, we're going to go through a bit of presidential history by looking back at those men who served as president of the United States and who visited Cranford either before, during or after their terms in office.
Vic Bary, a member of the Cranford Historical Society, tells about those visits and a bit about the lives of the presidents who came through town.
While growing up in Cranford, Bridget Gautieri may not have realized some of the things she was doing were preparing her for a journey that would lead to Germany. She was a youth leader at Calvary Lutheran Church and from sixth grade at Orange Avenue School she studied German.
After getting her undergraduate degree at Roanoke College she entered Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia with plans to become a pastor. This past summer she was ordained and shortly thereafter began a call serving at the ELCA Wittenberg Center in Germany.
On this week's episode I speak with Bridget about her years growing up in Cranford, when she realized she might become a pastor, and some of her experiences in Germany.
Early February is the when the refurbished Centennial Avenue indoor pool and fitness center is expected to open. The facility will now be operated as the Cranford YMCA.
In anticipation of the opening, Cranford Radio spoke with Greg Hatzisavvas, Vice President of Operations for the Westfield Area Y. We talk about physical changes that have been made and what programs the Y will be offering.
A great way to spend a winter evening is enjoying a production by the Cranford Dramatic Club. In February, the community theater will be presenting the play, "The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940."
Cranford Radio had an opportunity to catch up with three of the folks involved with the production, director Zach Mazouat, stage manager Dana Dispoto and Shannon Ludlum, who plays Helsa Wenzel, to learn a bit about the show.
Many of us have things like junk drawers, piles on tables and a garage so crowded with stuff that we can't park our car inside. How do you get away from the mess and get your space better organized?
Our guest on this week's episode is Cranford resident Trish Johnson. She owns This Organized Chaos and we chat about things you can do to put your living space in better order and how she can help you do it.
Each year the Cranford Clergy Council and the Interfaith Human Relations Committee recognize someone with the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award to honor his legacy. This year's recipient is Monsignor Timothy Shugrue. Father Tim served as the pastor of St. Michael Church for a dozen years before retiring from the parish last year.
In this week's episode we discuss the award and some of this memories of Dr. King while growing up.
This month voters have an opportunity to decide if they will approve a $75 million bond referendum. The bond includes funding for construction of full-day kindergarten classes in the district and facility enhancements. State aid will cover approximately 26% of the costs.
Cranford Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Scott Rubin joins the podcast this week to discuss the referendum in greater detail. Additional information can be found online in a website about the bonding question.
As the weather turns colder, the need to address homelessness becomes more urgent. Bridges, a non-profit organization based in Summit, does more than just provide clothing and food for those dealing with homelessness. They also work with those who are without permanent housing to find long-term solutions and to provide a safe place to live.
In this week's podcast I speak with Richard Uniacke, the president of Bridges, and Cranford resident Scott Waldman who is on the board of directors. We talk about how the organization has evolved and their recent expansion into Union County. We also note how listeners can help.
As a child Paul Kerbel moved around quite a bit, but for the past five+ years his home is Cranford as he serves as the spiritual leader of Temple Beth El Mekor Chayim. Rabbi Kerbel talks about his childhood, why he was drawn to becoming a rabbi and his impressions of Cranford.
We also talk about recent events in the Middle East and how that has affected him and his congregation.
Chris Battiloro was officially appointed as Westfield's police chief in December 2018. While he grew up in Westfield and has spent his entire law enforcement career in our neighboring town, Cranford is the town Chris and his family call home.
On this week's episode we chat about his life as a police officer and how technology and world events impact his profession. We also note how an infamous crime still impacts the department and its officers. Stick around to see which team Chris roots for when Cranford and Westfield meet on the playing fields.
If you're not Roman Catholic you might not be too familiar with the Knights of Columbus and the work they do. Cranford Council 6226 is associated with the Parish of St. Michael but their members come from more than just St. Michael's and Cranford. The current leader of the council is Kevin Cumiskey. He's served as Grand Knight since July 2023.
On this week's episode he tells me about the organization, the work they do and how he became involved.
As a Cranford High student, John Fedorchak stood out as a football player and wrestler. He was recruited by the Rutgers football program and, as a junior, was part of the 1976 undefeated team that was inducted into the Rutgers Athletics Hall of Fame.
John, who is also in the Cranford Sports Hall of Fame, is now retired. He chatted with Cranford Radio about his experiences as a player on one of only two Rutgers teams to go undefeated.
The Jumble Store is probably the most visible part of the Junior League of Elizabeth-Plainfield, but it is far from the only activity run by the organization. Among its other projects are scholarships, a service which provides free career-dressing services to women who are struggling financially and behind-the-scenes help for those in need.
My guest on this week's episode is Marge Szymona, a sustaining member for over 40 years and the former long-time manager of the Jumble Store. She shares more information about the group and tells how the Jumble Store got its name 90 years ago.
It's been 45 years since the members of the Cranford High School Class of '78 walked the halls of CHS. On Saturday, October 21 the class will be gathering at the Cranford Elks Lodge for a reunion.
One member of the class, Joe Attanasi, Jr. chatted with Cranford Radio about what's planned and some of his memories from the 1970s.
If I told you to I was at the purple building on North Avenue, you'd probably be able to guess where I was. For nearly a quarter century, Stefanie Lalor has been a part of Downtown Cranford with her shop, The Artist Framer.
On this week's podcast I visit Stefanie in her store to learn what inspired her to become part of the art world, both as a practitioner and an entrepreneur.
A 16th century story filled with music from the 1980s female rock band, The Go-Go's, is the first offering of the Cranford Dramatic Club's new season. The musical takes to the stage weekends starting October 13 and running through the 28th.
On this week's podcast my guests are Sean Lough (director), Jannette Fisher (Mopsa), Sean Lynch-Littlejohn (Basilius) and Hannah Elarmo (music director).
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Throughout this summer labor unions have been in the news; writers on strike, actors walking picket lines, and autoworkers shutting down production, are three of the more prominent examples.
Here in Cranford, most public school employees are represented by the Cranford Education Association. It's not just teachers, but support staff, nurses, para-professional and others who are part of the membership.
In this week's podcast I speak with CEA President Kevin Jala and Recording Secretary Colleen McDonald to learn more about the organization as well as the two teachers themselves.
When nearly everything shutdown in March 2020 at the start of COVID, some organizations stayed open. FLAG of Cranford was created with a duel purpose of providing for those front-line providers and supporting Cranford restaurants which were hard hit by the pandemic.
The organization has pivoted with a slightly new name, FLAG for Cranford, and an adjusted mission. On this week's podcast I speak with the two women who started the volunteer group, Rebecca Tantillo and Caren Demyen. They discuss the group's origins, what it's doing today and how Cranford residents and businesses can help support their work.
From Day 1 of TV35's existence the one constant presence was Ed Davenport. After 37 years at the Cranford channel, both as a volunteer and as the station's manager, Ed retired at the start of August. Before exiting, Ed chatted with me about his experiences and recounted some of the highlights and lowlights of his years working at TV35.
The New Jersey Bankers Association represents financial institutions throughout the state. The guest on this week's episode of the Cranford Radio podcast is Jenn Zorn, the executive vice president for education and business development for NJBankers. She tells us the organization's primary role is to represent its members' interests in Trenton and Washington, DC. The Cranford resident also notes the association's role in attracting new talent into the industry as well as educating current bankers and we touch on how NJBankers and its members help support Cranford non-profits.
Chelsea Selby, along with her husband Joe Randazza, is the owner of Witch Baby Soap and Magick Manor. Witch Baby came to Cranford in 2019 at 11 Eastman Street and Magick Manor opened this spring at 11 North Union Avenue.
Guest host Sofia Little, who worked at Witch Baby and Magick Manor, talks with the Cranford resident about what the stores offer and why she started the businesses.
It was January of this year when Rev. Jin Bae was installed as the senior pastor at Cranford's First Presbyterian Church. Rev. Bae's journey to Cranford had a number of interesting twists and turns starting with his birth and early childhood in South Korea, a degree in electrical engineering and his first preaching in an Assemblies of God congregation in California.
In this week's podcast, we hear more about what led him to become a minister and how an early visit prompted him to compare Cranford to a Hallmark Channel movie.
Cranford resident Dr. Daniela Shebitz has had an interest in the environment going back to seventh grade. She's a professor at Kean University as well as the chair of the Department of Environmental and Sustainability Sciences. In addition, she serves as a board member for the Hanson Park Conservancy.
On this week's podcast we talk about global environmental issues and how they impact Cranford. We also get into the town's ecology including the Rahway River and how the indigenous people who lived in what is now Cranford used the land we now live on.
Marine, cop, surgeon. Just a few of the roles that Terry Curran has performed during his career. On this week's episode of the Cranford Radio podcast we learn a bit more about Cranford's new deputy mayor.
To drive past the Cranford Elks lodge there's nothing remarkable about the building, but what happens inside and what its members do is what makes it special. On this week's Cranford Radio podcast, I speak with Kevin Carney, the Exalted Ruler of the lodge, and Mike Tona, the Chairman of Charity for the Community to learn more about the organization and to get more specifics about their various projects and charities.
While Union County is still criss-crossed by multiple active rail lines, there are several that haven't seen a train in years and have been slowly returning to nature. Three of them converge near the Cranford/Roselle Park line.
Union County Connects was created to turn these assets into recreational and active transportation pathways. On this week's Cranford Radio podcast I speak with Michael Dury, the group's president, to learn more about what they hope to do and what is already happening.
Max Galindo is the owner of Inklightened Tattoo & Piercing on Miln Street in Cranford. He's been in town only since 2020 but has been a tattoo artist since the turn of the century. On this week's Cranford Radio episode he talks about how he discovered his love of inking and some of his experiences creating art on people's bodies.
The last production put on at the Cranford Dramatic Club was the popular In the Heights. This show, which will have a much different feel, is a two-act production. The first show is Mercy Killing, described as a dark comedy. The second act is Rock, Paper, Scissors and a Simple Twisted Fate, a comedy farce.
The creator of the show, Mike Burdick, is my guest on this week's episode.
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There are few moments in life as transformative as giving birth and becoming a parent. However, the process takes a physical and emotional toll. Kendra Fitzgerald and Nicole Coons are sisters and the women behind Devoted Mamas. Their business offers trauma-informed movement and healing for all stages of motherhood.
On this week's episode we learn how the business came about and how they help new mothers and their partners move through this time in their lives.
Being in Motherhood podcast
This season of graduations is one of celebration. While great pride and excitement comes with the awarding of diplomas, there's also the financial reality of paying for tuition or student loans.
On today's Cranford Radio podcast I speak with Robert Nabel about paying for colleges or trade schooling. He's a certified financial planner with The Fortis Agency. He also has created The Parent Advisor to provide financial advice to young families.
May is Mental Health Month and on June 10 Cranford will be the site of the Mental Health Association in New Jersey's Walk for Wellness at Nomahegan Park. Mental health, of course, is about much more than a month or a walk, but these events help to highlight the importance of the issue and providing resources to address it.
On this week's Cranford Radio podcast, we talk with Robert Kley, the vice president and COO of the association and Jill Schlossberg, the director for Hudson and Union counties, about the organization and the June walk.
Washington Heights isn't very far from Cranford as far as distance is concerned. A trip over the George Washington Bridge or taking a train to New York and then an uptown subway will get you there in about an hour. Culturally, however, it's far removed.
This month, the Cranford Dramatic Club will be presenting the musical that first brought Lin-Manuel Miranda to the attention of many. Several cast members (Jose Figueroa/Kevin Rosario, Dania Agüero Davie/Camila Rosario, Gail Cevallos/Nina Rosario, and Karina Muñoz/Abuela Claudia) along with director Edgar Hidalgo, chatted with Cranford Radio about the show and how the story and characters resonate with them.
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Typically, spring and autumn see the downtown streets closed for Cranford's street fairs. This year's first event will take place on Sunday, April 30 between 11 and 5. The man behind Cranford's festival is Darryl Walker. He's the event organizer for StreetFairs.org. He chatted with Cranford Radio about what goes into putting the street fairs on, what the newest hot product is, and the enduring popularity of kettle corn and Italian sausage sandwiches.
Gina Black is serving her first term on the Cranford Township Committee. As with most folks who are elected to the committee, it comes after years of volunteer work around town. In addition, their elected responsibilities need to be balanced with their career and families.
In this week's episode we find out more about Gina's life outside of sitting on the dias in the municipal building.
There are many places you may know Don Smith from. It could be as a neighbor. Perhaps it's from his years on News 12 and TV35. More recently you might see his morning Tri-State Traffic Show or hear his voice doing traffic updates on WCBS Newsradio 880. On this week's Cranford Radio podcast, we learn how he mad the journey from volunteering at Cranford's hometown channel to being seen on TV sets across the state.
When Nutan Rubinson reads books she makes it a point to read that page where the author thanks those who helped make the work possible. She wondered if others also were curious about that glimpse into who was behind was written.
This year she debuted a new podcast, The Acknowledgements, to bring a unique take to the crowded field of book podcasts. On this week's Cranford Radio podcast, the Cranford resident discusses why she finds the acknowledgements so interesting, the types of books she most enjoys, and what she's discovered about podcasting.
You've likely seen their work as you travel around town. It might be at the gazebo in February or in front of the Cranford Public Library. I'm talking about the knit and crocheted public art that the Cranford YarnStormers install.
Teresa Murray is the founder and yarn boss for the YarnStormers and she tells us about how the group came about and how they do their work. While they get permission to decorate public spaces they want their projects to be a surprise.
YarnStormers Instagram page
With spring here outdoor activities are on the increase. On any sunny weekend day you'll find the walking path through Nomahegan Park crowded with folks getting exercise and enjoying the outdoors. Did you know that if you continued north on the pathway, you'd eventually end up at the Canadian border and if you continued south your final destination would be Key West? The East Coast Greenway connects urban areas along the Atlantic coast. Dennis Markatos-Soriano is the executive director of the East Coast Greenway Alliance and he's my guest on this week's Cranford Radio podcast.
The members of BreakTime have been performing together a little over a year but they've already released one EP with a second on the way. The four member group features Cranford resident and Cranford High School grad Peter Roefaro (Peter Matthew) on drums.
Cranford Radio sat down with the group to learn a bit more about their music, how they came together and what they hope to accomplish. We also learned from Peter how the CHS marching band played a big role in his musical life and the role of jazz in not just BreakTime but other areas, as well.
Links to BreakTime's music and more
Cori Ardente grew up in Cranford so when she wanted to open a business Downtown Cranford was a natural choice. Not only did she open ANTHEM style + gift, but in 2020 she opened a second store, Max & Luna.
In this week's episode you'll hear Cori describe her first retail experience, why she decided to take the leap into opening a second store, and who Max and Luna are.
Under Cranford's form of government, the chairperson of the township committee is selected by the township commissioners. At the January reorganization meeting, they unanimously approved Brian Andrews to serve as mayor.
As I've done with a variety of elected officials over the years, I did a "getting to know you" interview with Brian to learn about his background and what prompted him to run for elective office.
The NJTPA is the metropolitan planning organization responsible for the distribution of federal transportation funds for 13 counties in northern New Jersey, including Cranford. They also assist counties and municipalities in improving transportation infrastructure.
David Behrend serves as the executive director of the agency and Ted Ritter is the manager of external affairs. They join me this week on the podcast to talk about the work of the agency and to provide examples of how their work directly affects the movement of people and freight through Cranford.
When Melanie Cecilio, the founder and culinary director for Little Fox Kitchen, opened her business in 2018 she envisioned it as a cooking school drawing customers from Cranford and surrounding towns. Today, that side of the business continues but she also teaches virtual classes worldwide and companies come to her for team-building events.
In this episode of the Cranford Radio podcast, we learn more about Melanie and what brought her from the Philippines to Cranford and how COVID allowed her to pivot and transform her business.
Little Fox's Instagram page
Today at most public high schools you'll find a full program of girls sports. The passage of Title IX in 1972 required schools receiving federal funding to not discriminate based on sex. It took some time for Cranford Public Schools to begin offering girls sports. It started with a field hockey team and in 1973, a girls basketball team was created. That team not only was a first, but it distinguished itself by playing in the state championship game its first season.
Three seniors were the core of that team. Carol Blazejowski, Nancy French and Lisa Levine played together going back to their elementary grade days at Lincoln School. This week's Cranford Radio podcast brings the three together to talk not only about that magical season, but to go back even further to the formation of their friendship and then to catch up on what they did after graduation.
Whenever you attended high school it likely was a time of growing. Depending on how far removed you are from that experience, things have changed quite a bit with today's students. Under the direction of Nikki Savino Mulcahy, an intergenerational studies program is taking place at Cranford High School. It brings together older residents with current students to compare how things have changed over the decades, as well as what is not all that different.
Three students, Isabella Alvarez-Gomez, Neil McGovern and Ryan Lynskey, along with Mrs. Savino Mulcahy, join us on this week's podcast, recorded in the Dr. Deborah Cannon Partridge Wolfe Library and Learning Commons, to not only talk about the class but to share a bit of what their high school experience is like.
Twelfth Night is one of William Shakespeare's comedies and it comes to the CDC stage throughout the month of February. Director Susie Speidel and actor Zach Mazouat join me to talk about the show, the challenges of performing Shakespeare, and what this show has to do with New York City in the 1970s.
In July, the Cranford United Methodist Church welcomed a new pastor, Rev. Dr. HyunHui Kim. Pastor Kim is not only the first woman to serve as pastor of CUMC, but she is also the first person of color.
In this episode we learn a bit about her story from her growing up years in a suburb of Seoul to what brought her to New Jersey.
Following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020, the Cranford community created the Equity and Inclusivity Initiative to examine what needed to be done to make the town welcoming to everyone. Leaders of the project include a wide range of community members, including representatives from the township committee, public schools, clergy, police and citizens. Meetings, which were open to all members of the public, developed draft mission, value, vision and goal statements, an action plan and a strategic plan.
On January 9 a survey was released seeking feedback from all stakeholders. Cranford Radio spoke with several leaders of the initiative to learn more about their work and the purposes of the survey. Guests on the episode are Police Chief Ryan Greco, Sherry Williams, Rev. Alfred Brown of the First Baptist Church, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Scott Rubin, Dr. Christopher Chapman of the Roselle Chapter of the NAACP and Township Committee member Kathleen Miller Prunty.
In this Cranford Radio episode the tables are turned and instead of being the interviewer, Bernie becomes the interviewee. She discusses her recent announcement that she has transitioned to living as a woman and in general about being transgender. Interviewing Bernie are five members of the Cranford Unity Project; Sanjeevanee Vidwans, Patricia MacLean, Jill Wohrle, Karen Bennett, and Jo Ann Boyle.
Friday and Saturday nights (December 16 & 17) at 8, the Celebration Singers will be presenting their Hope for the Season concert at St. Michael's Church in Cranford.
As a rehearsal was underway this week, I had an opportunity to sit down with the director, Louise Chernosky, as well as two members, Cindy Higgins and Holly Gessner, to chat about this weekend's performance and about the Celebration Singers.
Santa isn't the only one delivering at this time of year. The UPS Store at 16 South Avenue West is lending a hand by not only shipping gifts and more, but by helping you pack those items so they arrive safely.
To help you prepare for whatever shipments you might be making, Cranford Radio spoke with Jackie Reese, the manager of Cranford's UPS Store and her assistant, Beatrice Beard.
Harry Dworchak has sung in many of the greatest opera houses in the world and with some of the finest singers. After living in places as diverse as Barcelona, Philadelphia and New York, he's settled in Cranford.
A 1986 New York Time review of his performance with the New York City Opera called his bass voice one of the finest to be heard in New York at the time. A year later he was given the prestigious Richard Tucker Award.
On this week's podcast we talk about what led him to become an opera singer, some of the unique challenges of performing opera and about his role as a teacher.
For nearly 20 years, a group of Cranford residents and educators have served as a resource for teachers throughout the district to provide funding for initiatives that haven't been funded through traditional budgeting.
The CFEE raises money through a variety of methods, including an annual Trivia Night, which will return in February after a two-year absence. Tara O'Connor serves as a co-president of the organization and she joined me in one of the projects funded by the CFEE.
Donate to the CFEE
Jan Lilien's life touched many. When she died in 2021, her husband Richard Brown wanted to continue her legacy through the creation of the Jan Lilien Education Fund. The fund has worked with the Hanson Park Conservancy to provide educational programs on sustainability and environmental awareness.
Richard also wanted to memorialize Jan with something permanent in Hanson Park which might give comfort to others suffering from grief. That dream became a wind sculpture which was installed this month in the park.
On this episode of Cranford Radio we hear from Richard, as well as Ellen McHenry, the president of the Hanson Park Conservancy and Rabbi Renee Edelman of Temple Sha'arey Shalom in Springfield.
Deborah Cannon Partridge Wolfe was born and raised in Cranford before becoming a nationally-recognized educator. Dr. Wolfe will be recognized with a reading garden that is being constructed in a corner of Lincoln Park where Old Peppy once stood.
TV35 and Cranford Radio spoke with Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty, Pat Pavlak and Betty Crawley about the project and Dr. Wolfe's legacy.
Since 1875, Trinity Episcopal Church has been a landmark on the corner of North and Forest avenues in Cranford. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the founding of the parish. Tom Kaercher is the junior warden of the church and its unofficial historian. He joins me to talk about the church's history and some of the interesting stories from its century and a half existence.
When you're a kid, there are few things more exciting than getting a new toy. When you're an adult, the toys get to be a bit more sophisticated and expensive. But what if you're an adult who creates new toys for kids to play with?
Robert Schott is just such a person and he joins Cranford Radio to talk about SprawlyWalls. Learn about the toy and how it came to be in this week's episode.
Gina Black and Steve Robertazzi, Director of Recreation and Parks, join us on a joint production of TV35 and Cranford Radio. We take a look back at the summer playground season and a look ahead at the fall plans. We’ll also chat about the new recreation building at 375 Centennial Avenue and how residents can get involved.
This is opening weekend for the musical, Once on This Island at the Cranford Dramatic Club. The show is based on The Little Mermaid but takes place on a Caribbean island.
We're joined on this episode by Roxie Billups (TiMoune), Karen Carratura (Asaka), Jordan Owens (Agwe), Tiffany Johnson (Erzulie), David Rivera, Jr. (Papa Ge) and the director, Howard Whitmore.
The show runs on weekends through October 22 and tickets can be purchased online.
While there have always been independent businesspeople who create unique products, it's sometimes been difficult for them to connect with potential customers. A Cranford-based company, Marketspace Vendor Events, not only helps to bridge that gap, it also finds fun venues for both to come together. Kim and Kevin Kraemer join Cranford Radio this week to talk about their business and how it came to be.
Meet some personalities from Cranford's past next month when the Haunted Cranford History Tour takes place downtown. This is a rare opportunity because all of these visitors departed this earthly realm long ago.
The woman responsible for gathering this cast of ghostly characters is Jane McLaughlin, the owner of Haunted History Productions. She's been organizing these tours for 14 years and this will be the first time the event is held in town. We talk about what visitors will see and how she brings the spirits back to life.
Robert D'Ambola worked as a cop for 28 years in Summit. He later served on the Cranford Township Committee. During much of this time he also was an instructor at the Union County Police Academy and taught recruits about ethics. In his latest book, The True Test Is When No One Sees, D'Ambola gives numerous real-life examples of ethical quandaries that law enforcement officers, and others, found themselves in. In this week's podcast we talk about his experiences in police work and how the book came to be.
A new Cranford media outlet made its debut this year. Cranford Local is a monthly magazine mailed to all Cranford homes and it features stories about Cranford businesses and families. Shawn McDonald is the editor and she spoke with Cranford Radio about the publication She also gives her perspective on the newest generation of journalists that she's teaching in her full-time job as a journalism educator at Westfield High School as well as her role as an advisor to the student publications, including Hi's Eye.
Health problems, a job loss, a death; just a few of the ways someone can suffer a financial emergency. When these events result in difficulties paying rent or a mortgage, Project Home of Cranford can help. In this week's episode we talk with Lisa Orrico, the president of Project Home and Maggie Feeney, the vice president to learn how the organization can help and how they work with Cranford Family Care to help those in need.
Art, music, movies, sales. Just a few of the many offerings and events happening year-round in Downtown Cranford. Two of the people charged with making it all happen are Caren Demyen, the Director of Downtown Cranford and Michelle Stavrou, the Social Media Coordinator. On this week's podcast I talk to them about the various events that take place and what else goes into making Downtown Cranford a two-time winner of the Best Downtown in New Jersey.
Far From Heaven, The Plot Against America, a Super Bowl TV commercial. What do they all have in common? All had scenes shot in Cranford. The town is frequently showcased in movies, TV shows and commercials. What is it about Cranford that's attractive to the creative people behind these productions? Listen as Cranford Radio talks to David W. Schoner, Jr., the Associate Director of the New Jersey Motion Picture and TV Commission.
Cranford has dozens of volunteer committees that deal with everything from sewage to golf. One such committee is the Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety Committee. Anthony Durante is the committee's chair and he chatted with Cranford Radio about the group's purpose and what they're currently working on.
The township administrator's role is similar to the chief operating officer's responsibilities in the business world. Jamie Cryan has been Cranford's Township Administrator since January 2019.
In this week's Cranford Radio podcast he talks about why he decided to work in the public sector and how his previous jobs in West New York, New Jersey led to his current position.
Jay Boxwell Jr. had no idea his enlistment in the US Navy would one day lead to being the State Commander for Department of New Jersey Veterans of Foreign Wars. Boxwell took on the role in June and will serve for a year. In this Cranford Radio podcast he talks about his military and VFW experiences.
There are thousands of books inside the Cranford Public Library on Walnut Avenue but, under a new program coming this year, those books will represent only a fraction of the materials that will be easily available to library patrons. Library Director Michael Maziekien and Head of Reference Services Marissa Lieberman tell us more about the new service as well as other activities taking place. We also discuss some of the changes COVID has brought and how the library might be helping you grow your garden.
Two young brothers are experiencing a life-changing summer. That, in a sentence, is a preview of Joseph Colicchio's latest novel, All Strings Attached. In this week's Cranford Radio podcast, Joe tells us a bit more about his book as well as a bit more about his own life.
We're surrounded by beautiful images but often we take them for granted or don't notice them. Frank Little, a Cranford photographer, sees many of the same things we pass daily but with a lot of hard work, a bit of luck, and an artist's eye, he's able to create beautiful pictures.
Frank's photos often combine the man-made with celestial spheres and his work has brought him notice far beyond Cranford's borders. In this week's Cranford Radio podcast we talk with Frank about his work, how he had his start and get a glimpse into how he creates his magnificent images.
Lucy Young, a seventh grade student at Hillside Avenue School, may not go into clothes design when she's older, but right now her Cranford Pride shirt is being seen around town as Cranford and the nation mark Pride Month. Lucy talked to Cranford Radio about what prompted her to make the design and how funds raised by its sale will benefit The Trevor Project.
Link to purchase shirt (scroll down to bottom)
Memorial Day is about much more than backyard barbecues, the first shore weekend or the unofficial start of summer. It's a day to remember those who gave their lives in service to our nation during its many conflicts.
There have been 86 Cranford men who have died during those wars and Don Sweeney started a project to tell the story of each of those individuals so that their legacy is remembered for generations to come.
In this week's Cranford Radio podcast, Don talks about the Cranford 86 Project, how it got started and some of the challenges he and his partners have faced in telling those stories.
For many of us, our interactions with the United States Postal Service go no further than mailing a letter, buying stamps and looking through our daily deliveries. There's a lot more though that has to happen for that card you send to get to where it's going.
Walidah Ali is the Cranford Postmaster and she's responsible for those first steps in sending your mail when it's dropped off in town and the final steps before it lands in your mailbox. She tells us a bit more about what happens before and after.
These days most of us are more aware of how our actions can impact the planet. One area this is especially true is when it comes to the products we buy. Even though we may dutifully toss our used plastic containers in the recycling bin, 2018 data from the Environmental Protection Agency indicates that less than nine percent of plastics are recycled.
One solution is to reuse the containers which hold some of the products we buy. Labo Refillery opened at 11 Walnut Avenue on April 22, Earth Day, and they allow you to refill containers with a variety of products, such as soaps and lotions, that you can use again and again.
Cranford Radio spoke with the co-owners of the store, Joseph Fule and Meliza Veneracion-Fule to learn more about the business.
I don't believe we have any millinery shops in Cranford, but if we did this week's guest would probably keep them busy with all the hats she wears. Lisa Carbone co-owns TimberRidge Construction with her husband Anthony. She also runs Loft Homes and is in her eighth year serving on the Cranford Board of Education, currently as vice president.
We chat about each of those roles as well as learning a bit more about her background and what she did before taking on those responsibilities.
Just as the township concluded its 150th anniversary, the Cranford Police Department started to celebrate its 125th year. From the humble beginnings of the volunteer Cranford Thief Detecting Society to today's professional force, there have been great changes.
In this episode we're joined by Bob Segear, a retired police officer who served from 1974 to 2004, and Lieutenant Matthew Nazzaro. Bob discusses how the department evolved and Matt talks about what the CPD is doing in 2022 to mark the milestone.
Link to 125th anniversary brick purchase
In 2020 a group of Cranford women came together to create the Cranford Unity Project. In the short time CUP has been in existence, they have taken on a number of projects to educate, advocate and support People of Color, LGBTQ+, religious and other marginalized groups through the community.
On this week's episode we speak with CUP members Sanjeevanee Vidwans, Karen Bennett and Patricia MacLean.
Historically, learning a trade was what most people did after their school years were finished. In more recent times, especially in towns such as Cranford, there's been more of an emphasis on attending college after high school graduation.
Danny Ghanime owns Brighton Air Corp. in Cranford and he's seen first hand not only what you can do with a trade but the tremendous need for people in the trades. In this episode of Cranford Radio he talks about some of the advantages of learning a trade and why he worked with the Cranford Jaycees to offer a scholarship to trade schools for Cranford graduates.
Reviving a previous feature of Cranford Radio in which we interview elected officials who represent Cranford, I speak with 21st District Assemblywoman Michele Matsikoudis (R). She was elected to the seat in November and most recently served as a councilwoman in New Providence.
In this week's discussion, we talk about her life, why she decided to run for public office, and some of the issues most important to her.
In a joint venture between TV 35 and Cranford Radio, Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty discusses two pressing issues facing town, the municipal pools and flooding.
In the first episode of In Focus since before the pandemic, we take the time to get in-depth on these two topics. This is expected to be the first of a number of In Focus shows where we have the opportunity to dig deeper on issues of concern to township residents.
Singers, actors, instrumentalists are all part of the performing arts in the Cranford school system. Cranford High has a well-deserved reputation for turning out exceptional artists in all three arenas. Doing so takes money, sometimes more than is available in the budget. The Cranford Schools Friends of the Performing Arts was created to step into that gap and by supporting the performing arts in other ways.
Today on Cranford Radio I speak with Chris Hoffman, a board member for the organization. She tells us a bit about the group and some of their upcoming events, including the Cranford Film Festival.
For the second straight year the Cranford Theater will serve as one of the hosts of the Garden State Film Festival. The festival is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year and features movies from filmmakers from around the world both in person and virtually. Cranford's nights in the spotlight will be Wednesday, March 23rd and Saturday, March 26th.
Joining us on Cranford Radio to talk about the film festival are Doreen Sayegh, owner of the Cranford Theater; Lauren Concar Sheehy, the GSFF executive director and Diane Raver, the founder and treasurer of the GSFF.
Two years ago, just as everything was shutting down at the start of the pandemic, the Cranford Dramatic Club was finalizing preparations for its spring musical, A Chorus Line. The show was too good to skip so here, in 2022, it's back. Six cast members, along with the director and producer, came together to talk about the show and why they all are looking forward to staging it.
Joining us for the podcast are Michael Kidney, the director and choreographer, Sean Lough (Zach), Nicole Boscarino (Cassie), Kylie Francis (Maggie), Nick Halecki (Bobby), Tyler Talmage (Al), Gail Cevallos (Judy) and the producer, Joe Leo.
Cranford resident Joe Leo has seen a lot in the quarter century he's owned an independent book store in Downtown Union. Despite the challenges, Here's The Story has more than survived. In this episode of Cranford Radio, Joe talks about what sets his bookstore apart from Amazon and Barnes & Noble. We also talk about Joe's other role as the president of the Cranford Dramatic Club and how the CDC has also had to adapt.
Catarina Guimaraes is a world-ranked adaptive athlete, the author of two novels and a motivational speaker. In this Cranford Radio episode, she talks about why she became involved in sports, some of her adventures competing on the international stage and what she hopes to do after graduation in June.
Cranford is just wrapping up its 150th anniversary. One of the ways the community marked the milestone was the publication of the book, Celebrating Cranford. Maureen Strazdon authored the book which includes a look at how the township marked each of its 25 year increment anniversaries. In today's podcast we not only talk about the book but we discuss some of her research, some of the surprises she learned, and what future Cranford historians might do when they look back to our present day.
Jen Glackin, Rebecca Tantillo and Caren Demyen have been the owners of the TAPinto Cranford since the start of 2022. In addition to their previous involvement in Cranford, each brings unique experiences to the online news franchise.
To learn a bit more about their backgrounds and what they have planned for TAPinto Cranford, the four of us gathered via Zoom to chat.
Did Jack the Ripper once live in Cranford? A real 19th century murder led some to ask that question. The case was largely forgotten by the 21st century but author Luke Jerod Kummer took a fresh look at it in a work of historical fiction he wrote for an Audible Original audiobook, Takers Mad.
In this Cranford Radio interview we talk about some of the interesting facts he uncovered and how present day Cranford folks helped him to see what the town was like in the early 1900s.
The Cranford Unity Project and the Cranford Public Library will be hosting an appearance by New Jersey author Robyn Gigl on Saturday, January 29 at 2 pm in the Cranford Community Center. Gigl will be speaking about the two books she has authored, By Way of Sorrow and Survivor's Guilt.
Registration is required to attend. Signed copies of Robyn's two books will be available for purchase courtesy of Here's The Story, owned by Joe Leo of Cranford.
Cranford will be in a new congressional district and the township is given a traffic safety award. More on those stories, along with a look at your Christmas weekend forecast and a rundown of Christmas services in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Cranford reacts to a national threat of school violence and two Cranford police officers are promoted. Hear the details in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
A national track record has been set by a Cranford teen and there's a new way to discover Cranford history. More on those stories, as well as a check of the weekend CHS sports schedule, the forecast and events happening around town in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
An original play, Frosted, is being performed by the Cranford Dramatic Club December 10 through 12. The family-friendly, interactive show is a parody loosely-based on The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen. The two writers, Mike Burdick and Sean Lough join co-directors Mary and Ken Webb to talk about the show and some of what you'll experience in this interview with Cranford Radio.
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Cranford High saw an increased police presence on Thursday and a Cranford man is sentenced for receipt of child pornography. More on those stories, along with a check of CHS sports schedule, weekend events and the weather forecast in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
A fatal house fire and an addition to Cranford police cars top this week's news. We'll also let you know about the last Cougar football game of the season, check the weekend forecast and tell you about some events taking place around town.
Football playoff excitement tops this week's news. You'll also hear how you can still apply for disaster relief, what's happening around town in the days ahead, and what's in store in the forecast.
A concession is made in the race for the Cranford Township Committee and a building owner is hit with a violation for spray-painted messages on a downtown building. More on those stories as well as an update on the CHS football team's progress in the state playoffs, a check of the weekend forecast and a look ahead at some weekend events in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
We all know that cancer is an unwelcome visitor to any family. Along with the uncertainty it brings, there are the day-to-day concerns of how to get back and forth to treatment or combatting the loneliness that can come with the disease. Hope Heals is a service offered by Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Westfield to provide help with some of those concerns. Cranford Radio spoke with Patricia Martin, director of Hope Heals, as well as Deacon Keith Gibbons, the assistant director, about what Hope Heals is all about.
A house fire and a racism incident top this week's Cranford news. We'll also let you know about some fun events taking place this weekend, take a look at the CHS weekend sports schedule and check the three day forecast.
The Cranford Police Department makes a promotion and history in the process. Also, a new restaurant opens its doors downtown and a Cranford resident is remembered. More on those stories along with a look ahead at the weekend in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
FEMA has opened a disaster recovery center in town and it's a weekend filled with activities around town. Listen to the details in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
A Cranford favorite has closed and a piece of movie history takes place in town. You'll hear details on those stories, as well as a look at CHS sports, the forecast and events for the weekend in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Cranford schools get graded and Cranford's 150th anniversary is celebrated Saturday. Details on those stories as well as a check of the weekend weather, the CHS sports schedule and more in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
The largest production since COVID shut down the CDC in early 2020 is scheduled to be performed in October. Neil Simon's "Rumors" will be the fall production on weekends between October 8th and 23rd. Cranford Radio paid a visit to the theater to speak with the director, Zach Mazouat, Victoria Navarro, who plays Cassie, and Ian Federgreen who plays Lenny.
Tickets for the show can be purchased at the box office or online.
Federal funding is now available to aid in the recovery from Ida while the township continues collecting flood debris throughout town. Check out the CHS weekend sports schedule as well as what else is happening, and give a listen to your weekend forecast in this week's episode of Cranford Radio headlines.
Cranford continues its recovery efforts from Ida as residents jump in to help their neighbors. The weekend forecast looks promising and Cranford will mark 9/11 on Saturday. More on those stories, along with a check of the CHS weekend sports schedule, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
A decade after Irene devastated Cranford, the town is flooded by Ida. Get an update on what happened, what's going on and how residents and businesses are stepping up to help in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
A reminder of health rules for the reopening of schools has been issued and Cranford residents are asked to look for an invasive insect. Hear more on those stories and check out events in the week ahead as well as the forecast which includes the possibility of tropical storm conditions in this week’s Cranford Radio headlines.
A report from the New Jersey Attorney General's office is notable for Cranford not appearing in it, and we might soon be able to return to the Cranford Theater. Hear more on those stories, find out how hot it's going to get this weekend, and see what you might do to pass the time in the week ahead in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Water problems this week and a CHS student is on stand-by to participate in the upcoming Paralympics in Tokyo. Details on those stories, along with the weekend forecast and upcoming events, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Candidates have been announced for the Board of Education, police advise residents to take steps to reduce the threat of property theft and mask advisories are back for Union County. Details on those stories, along with the weekend forecast and some upcoming events, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
A veteran Cranford police officer is headed to retirement and a group of ethnic restaurants downtown get noticed by a statewide food site. Hear more on those stories along with a check of what's happening this weekend in Cranford Radio headlines.
After missing a year due to COVID, the Hispanic Theater Festival returns to the Cranford Dramatic Club this year with a production of La Casita Feliz. The comedy, which is all in Spanish, features several Cranford performers.
Cranford Radio spoke with the the director, Joel Redmount, and Patricia MacLean, a Cranford resident who is mother of two of the play's actors, to learn a bit more about the show.
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Personnel changes are made in the Cranford Police Department and an unused rail line takes what could be the first steps to becoming a pedestrian and bike path. More on those stories as well as the hot weekend forecast and a check of what's happening in town this weekend in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
The number of Cranford High School alumni increased by 320 Tuesday and an environmental clean-up has been completed in a Cranford neighborhood. More on those stories, as well as a check of the weekend forecast and upcoming events, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Independence Day will once again be celebrated in Cranford with fireworks and the Cougar softball team goes for the state championship Friday. More on those stories in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Election results are in from the primary and relaxed masking rules are in place for Cranford schools. More on those stories along with information on two CHS teams playing in sectional finals this weekend in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
In this week's Cranford Radio headlines you’ll hear about what’s planned for Memorial Day and find out who the two newest residents of the Cranford Hotel are. You’ll also get the holiday forecast, hear who the Cougar teams will face and learn what else is going on around town.
The state says the majority of Cranford adults have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and Cranford police team with area departments to capture a suspected vehicle thief. More on those stories along with a check of the weekend weather, CHS sports and upcoming events in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
The Memorial Day parade is back but the fate of the July 4th fireworks display is still uncertain. More on that story, as well as what to expect in town this weekend, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
An oil spill, an upcoming partial closure of a Cranford park and a Cranford native heading to the NFL make up this week's headlines. Details on those stories as well as a check of the forecast, the CHS sports schedule and some upcoming events round out this week's update.
Money for road repaving, a plea to the governor to close a downtown block and a possible deer hunt bordering the southside are all making news in this week’s Cranford Radio headlines.
A new COVID death has been reported in town and two Cranford public buildings reopen to the public. More on those stories as well as a look at the weekend weather, CHS sports, and weekend events in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Parklets are back in the downtown, municipal offices and the community center reopen to the public and three development proposals for a Cranford gateway are presented. Details on those stories as well as a check of your weekend forecast, CHS sports and upcoming events in this episode of Cranford Radio headlines.
The Republicans have named their candidate for the township committee and a Cranford building is being promoted for inclusion on the state and national historic registries. More on those stories, along with a check of CHS sports, the weekend weather and upcoming events in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
There will be a primary race for the Cranford Township Committee and another death from COVID has been reported in the township. More on those stories as well as a check of the weekend forecast, CHS sports and what's happening in the week ahead.
The first candidate has been announced for this year's election to the township committee and Cranford kicks off a celebration of a special anniversary. More on those stories along with a check of the weekend weather, the CHS sports calendar and some events to occupy the days ahead in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Today marks Cranford's 150th anniversary. If Cranford Radio were around on March 14, 1871 this is how it might of sounded, including the actual forecast for the date.
Warmer temperatures bring thoughts of summer activities and both the Cranford pools and the Cranford Drive-In are in this week's news. We'll also let you know why this weekend is special in Cranford history and what you can expect with the weather.
Plans have been announced for the next school year, Cranford gets a COVID testing site and there's a new Wawa in town. Details on those stories as well as a check of the weekend weather forecast, a look at Cougar sports and some upcoming events in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
In this week’s Cranford Radio headlines you’ll hear about how Cranford ranks among municipalities around the state when it comes to property taxes and how a Cranford native has made history in neighboring Springfield. While you can’t attend in-person, we’ll also tell you about what CHS teams are up to and let you know the weather so you can plan your weekend.
The number of COVID cases in Cranford continues to drop, North Avenue redevelopment is being looked at and the Cougar baseball team is nationally ranked. Details on those stories, along with the wintry forecast and a check of what's happening this weekend, in this week's episode of Cranford Radio headlines.
The Zoning Board hears an application for an apartment complex, a health food store opens downtown and a Cranford resident makes the news nationwide. More on those stories, along with a look at a wintry forecast and Cougar sports in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Union County College gets a record-setting donation and snow disrupts life for many Cranford residents. More on those stories, along with CHS sports and the weekend forecast, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Schools, crime and awards are making the news this week in Cranford. Details on those stories along with a wintry forecast in this edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
Cranford takes additional safety steps due to the rising number of COVID cases. More on that story as well as what to expect this weekend in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
As we approach Martin Luther King Jr. Day a pair of bias incidents are being investigated by Cranford police. More on that story along with news of a new restaurant in town and a film festival that is expanding to Cranford.
The township committee and the board of education held their reorganization meetings this past week and deer hunting season returns to two Cranford parks. More on those stories and a look at the weekend forecast in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
The latest on COVID-19's impact on Cranford and some changes for recycling in the new year. You'll hear more on those stories as well as get details on a wet and windy Christmas forecast in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
There's a tentative agreement for what will happen with 750 Walnut Avenue and Cranford has its first significant snowstorm in a couple of years. Hear the details and take a look ahead at your weekend in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
A fatal pedestrian collision took place this week and COVID-19 cases continue to rise. More on those stories along with a look at the warming forecast and some weekend events in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
This week’s Cranford Radio headlines will tell you how Cranford police officers raised money to help two women fighting cancer. You’ll also get updates on the latest COVID numbers in the township and how that’s affecting the Cranford Public Library.
A national rise in COVID-19 cases is having an impact on Cranford and a CHS team has brought home a state championship. More on those stories and a look at your holiday weekend in this edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
A motorist was killed in a crash this past week and a downtown business shuts down. More on those stories, along with a look at the weekend CHS sports schedule and your weekend forecast, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
A second wave of COVID cases is impacting Cranford but, unlike the spring, CHS sports will take place this weekend. More on those stories and a look at your weekend forecast in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
While most of the attention seems to be focused on the race for the presidency, there are also local races of interest. It all wraps up at 8 pm Tuesday. Some of the new COVID-friendly steps Cranford has taken will continue for the rest of the fall. More on those stories together with a check of weekend sports, events and forecast in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Hear the latest COVID-19 numbers for Cranford and learn about a new store that's opened downtown. As always, you'll also hear the weekend forecast, CHS sports and upcoming events in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Halloween is on in Cranford but there are some new guidelines to follow. There's a new ranking of schools around the state. Hear how Cranford fared in this week's headlines. We'll also bring you some weekend events, CHS sports and the three day forecast.
Historic preservation honors are given to two Cranford properties and the return of indoor swimming is coming. More on those stories along with a look at the forecast and a couple of weekend events in this week's episode of Cranford Radio headlines.
A Cranford man faces attempted murder charges and Cranford Police will be handing out tickets of a different sort. More on those stories along with the return of CHS sports and a look at your weekend in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
Classes at CHS go all virtual and a new restaurant hopes to open in town next month. You'll hear details on those stories along with a look at the upcoming weekend in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
There's been a change in Downtown Cranford's leadership and the first COVID-19 death since July has been reported. More on those stories and a look at the weekend weather in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
It may look a bit different from years past, but Cranford Porchfest is scheduled to take place October 10 on porches all over town. Randy Geis, one of the originators of the event, talked with Cranford Radio about what will be happening.
There's been a jump in the number of COVID-19 cases in Cranford, a township educator is honored as the Union County Teacher of the Year and a new business is moving to town. Details on those stories along with a look at the weekend forecast and upcoming events in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
News from the schools tops this week's headlines and another Cranford restaurant falls to COVID-19. More on those stories along with your Labor Day Weekend forecast in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
There's additional space for outdoor dining in Downtown Cranford and drive-in movies will continue in town through at least October. More on those stories along with a look at the weekend forecast in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Cranford's future was discussed this week with possibilities for an abandoned gas station and an indoor recreation center looked at. Learn more about those stories and find out what the weather forecast is looking like in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
A strong tropical storm hits town and Cranford celebrates its state champion baseball team. More details on those stories and a look at your weekend weather in this edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
Plans have been released for the possible reopening of schools in September and Cranford begins a conversation on racism. More on those stories, a look at the weekend weather, and the first Cranford sports report since March in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
A most unusual graduation for the CHS Class of 2020 and primary election results bring no surprises. More on those stories and a look at how Tropical Storm Fay might affect your weekend plans in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
Nomahegan Park will be growing just a bit and changes continue as the result of COVID-19. More on those stories along with a look at your weather for the Fourth of July in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
There have been no new COVID-19 cases in Cranford for the past week and New Jersey's reopening continues with the return of indoor dining. More on those stories and a check of the forecast for the first full weekend of summer, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
A new way to watch movies in Cranford and the gradual reopening of the state continues. More on those stories, along with a look at your Father's Day weekend weather and events, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
The Cranford Township Committee takes unanimous action on a resolution condemning "hateful and racist rhetoric" and there's news of another opening in town. More on those stories, along with a look at the weekend weather forecast, in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
Thousands gather in town for a protest, a Cranford child dies from cancer and a chart ranks the township high on a list we'd prefer not to be on. More on those stories, along with a look at the weekend weather, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
It's been a few decades since the Union Drive-In on Route 22 last showed a film, but this summer Cranford will be getting its own temporary outdoor movie theater. More on that story and others in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
There's no parade or public service this Memorial Day, but Cranford's war dead will still be remembered on Monday. More details, along with the holiday weekend forecast, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Another Cranford reopening to report and a Cranford building makes a list of most endangered historic places in New Jersey. More on those stories, together with a warm start to the weekend, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Two new cancellations to note this week in Cranford and a chilly forecast for the first part of the weekend. That, and more, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
All of us, in some way, are impacted by the pandemic we are currently living through. What tools can we use to help us cope and how can we assist those around us? Craig Springer, PhD, a clinical psychologist and co-owner of the Good Life Center for Mental Health in Cranford, spoke with Cranford Radio about some of the issues he's seeing and provides insights in dealing with this.
The grace period for the payment of property taxes in Cranford has been extended and for the first time in awhile there's an opening to tell you about. More on those stories, along with the weekend weather and new entertainment you can view from home, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
The grim numbers of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Cranford continue to rise and property owners will get a grace period on paying their sewer bills. More on those stories, along with a weekend weather forecast and your virtual entertainment in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Schools will be closed through at least mid-May and the pandemic means a delay in enforcement of the ban of most single-use plastics in the township. More on those stories along with the weekend weather and your virtual Cranford entertainment in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
The latest Cranford update on COVID-19 and a look at some things to keep you occupied while you stay at home. We also have your Easter weekend forecast.
State Senator Tom Kean notes a new teaching resource available to New Jersey students in grades 3 through 6 while schools are closed and also notes the waiving of certain statewide testing requirements for some students.
The number of coronavirus cases continues to rise in Cranford and there'll be some new faces on the township committee come next year. More on those stories, the weekend weather, and some ways to socialize virtually in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
We'll bring you up to date with the latest COVID-19 news from Cranford. One way you can still safely leave the house is to go for a walk or bike ride (with appropriate social distancing). Unfortunately, the weekend forecast doesn't look all that promising.
Cranford's state senator, Tom Kean, provides an update on what is happening in the legislature concerning COVID-19.
Hear the latest from Cranford officials on what is happening in the township during this pandemic.
Daily life has been disrupted in unprecedented ways, but Cranford continues to function and adjust. This week's expanded headlines has the latest on how the coronavirus is affecting Cranford residents. We'll also let you know about a noticeable cool down coming this weekend.
COVID-19 is impacting daily activities for nearly everyone. This week's headlines summarizes the effect on Cranford. We'll also tell you what to expect weather-wise over the weekend with most events in town being canceled.
If you love food, the name Kara Decker may be familiar. She first came to prominence in Cranford shortly after A Toute Heure opened at the corner of Centennial Avenue and Elm Street in 2007. She was also key to the opening of 100 Steps Kitchen + Raw Bar in 2013, serving as the restaurant's first executive chef, for then owners Andrea and Jim Carbine. The current owner of 100 Steps, Jack Tagmouti, has brought Kara back and Cranford Radio spoke with her about her return.
A couple of national stories have an impact on Cranford this week. The CHS sports season transitions from winter to spring teams and there'll be opportunities to build a love of reading for Cranford's youngest residents in the coming week. More on those stories, along with a look at the weather for the shortest weekend of the year.
It was a championship week for a couple of Cougar sports teams and a winning logo design has been picked for Cranford's 150th anniversary in 2021. More on those stories, along with the weekend weather and events in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
A centennial is marked and several Cranford businesses are recognized by various sites. More on those stories along with you weekend weather, CHS sports and upcoming events in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Over the years I've featured interviews with clergy members from various Cranford houses of worship, some well over a hundred years old. New Life Church of Cranford has been around for only a few months. Learn a bit about this congregation from its interim pastor, Rob Curry.
It's a rare double holiday weekend with Cranford schools headlining this week's news. We'll also let you know what the weather is looking like and what you can do to keep busy the next three days.
No need to study for this spelling bee. It's the musical comedy, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee that will be performed at the Cranford Dramatic Club February 14 through 22. Director Nevil Schwartz, along with cast members Mallory Wu and Zach Mazouat talked this week with Cranford Radio to discuss the show.
When Tom Malinowski was born in Słupsk, Poland in 1965, being elected to the US House of Representatives was probably not something thought possible. In 2018 however, that happened and Malinowski became the first Democrat to represent Cranford in the House since the 1950s.
Cranford Radio met with the congressman to learn a bit more about his background and what he's learned since taking his seat in Congress.
A Cranford resident was in Congress for the State of the Union address and a proposal has been presented to replace a scar from a downtown fire. Details on those stories, along with a look ahead at the weekend in this week's Cranford Radio update.
The last week of January was Catholic Schools Week and to mark the occasion Cranford Radio visited St. Michael School to talk to the principal, Sandy Miragliotta, and four eighth grade students; Jeffrey Quintanilla, Isabella Peralta, Josh Hunsinger and Christopher Surrusco.
Membership fees at the Cranford Pool are expected to increase and kudos go out to students at Cranford High. More on those stories along with the weekend forecast, events and varsity sports in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Being in the middle can sometimes be a tough place. Stewart Mader’s job finds him talking to NJ Transit customers about how the agency operates and explaining what goes on behind the scenes. It also has him taking customers’ ideas and concerns to top management. Mader serves as the Chief Customer Experience Officer and Customer Advocate for the statewide organization. He talked with Bernie Wagenblast about what his job involves and what he’s learned since joining NJ Transit in April 2019.
Crime news leads this week's headlines. We'll also bring you up to date on the weekend weather, CHS sports and events on Saturday and Sunday.
Downtown Cranford has been a model other downtowns have looked to as they transform their business centers. Last year Gabe Bailer took on the task of maintaining and advancing Cranford's retail center and he talked with Cranford Radio about how he intends to do that.
For 39-years the Cranford Clergy Council and the Interfaith Human Relations Committee have recognized individuals and organizations who have worked to foster better relations among all people. On January 16 at St. Michael Church, Skip Winter was presented with the honor. Afterward he spoke with Cranford Radio.
There's a new way for residents to track crimes in the town and a Cranford resident has been recognized for his work aiding the disadvantaged. You'll hear more on those stories, as well as a look at weekend events and a wintery forecast, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
In their 2020 reorganization meeting the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders picked Fanwood's Alexander Mirabella to serve as their chairman for the coming year. Cranford Radio spoke with Mirabella to hear his priorities for the year ahead.
This week it was the Board of Education's turn to hold their reorganization meeting and the water company had to deal with a couple of water main breaks during the beginning of the week. You'll hear more on those stories, along with the spring-like forecast and a look at weekend events, in this week's Cranford Radio headline.
The Cranford Police Department is there to respond to all sorts of emergencies but who is there to help the police officers when they need assistance? One group that stands at the ready is the Cranford Honorary PBA Local 52. The group was created by retired CPD police officer Paul Cymbaluk, who serves as the organization's president. He spoke with Cranford Radio to tell us about the organization.
Assemblyman Jon Bramnick (R-21) kicks off a new feature on Cranford Radio. I plan to extend an invitation to elected officials who represent Cranford at various levels of government to provide a monthly commentary.
In this first example, Assemblyman Bramnick discusses his proposal to cap state spending increases at two percent annually.
The new year means a new township committee and 2019 ends with the passing of the woman who was said to have taught Cranford to swim. There's more on those stories, as well as a look at the weekend weather and high school sports in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
The Cranford Township Committee held its annual reorganization meeting Thursday evening. Commissioners Mary O'Connor and Kathleen Miller Prunty took the oath of office as they begin new terms on the township committee. In addition, Patrick Giblin was elected by his fellow commissioners to serve as mayor for the year ahead. Following the meeting, Mayor Giblin spoke with Cranford Radio about what he would like to accomplish in the year ahead and where things stand with several challenges the township faces.
A fire heavily damaged a Cranford home and Cranford again comes out on top in an online poll. More on those stories, along with a look at what lies ahead for the last weekend of 2019, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
NJ Transit headlines this week's news, including an interview with the head of the agency. I know Christmas is only a few days away, but our other top story is about the Fourth of July.
CHS winter sports teams are active this weekend and there are a couple of Christmas-related events in town that we'll tell you about. The weekend weather rounds out your weekly update.
Commuters on the Raritan Valley Line saw the re-introduction of off-peak service one-seat service to and from NYC on the Raritan Valley Line in November. Calls for peak and weekend one-seat service continue. Kevin Corbett, the president and CEO of NJ Transit, sat down with Cranford Radio to talk about the system in general and the Raritan Valley Line in particular.
Cranford comes out to support a recent CHS grad and daughter of a slain Jersey City Police detective and an online poll pits Cranford against other Central Jersey towns to see which has the most holiday spirit.
See how the weather might impact your weekend plans and learn what's going on around town the next three days.
Some state money is headed Cranford's way for road repairs and there are several holiday events to enjoy this weekend. More news, CHS sports and the weekend weather in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
A cellphone tower and a half-acre increase to Nomahegan Park headline this week's news. More on those stories, as well as an interesting weekend forecast and some holiday events, in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
Two stories about 750 Walnut Avenue are in the news this week. We also take a look at what's happening around town the weekend before Thanksgiving and what kind of weather to look forward to.
The township and the board of education have reached an agreement on payments for the Birchwood Avenue development and Downtown Cranford wins statewide accolades for the second year in a row.
More details on those stories and a look at weekend events and the weather you'll have to enjoy them, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
There are some things you can count on every year around Christmas time; eggnog, the tree at Rockefeller Center and the story of George Bailey, Mr. Potter and and their unique Christmas Eve in Bedford Falls, New York. That story will be performed this December by the Cranford Dramatic Club. Cranford Radio spoke with three of the stars of It's A Wonderful Life, Ben Bouffard (George Bailey), Michael Marcus (Clarence the angel) and Robert Pells (Mr. Potter) to get their views on this holiday classic.
Play dates and ticket information
Election results and a return of a direct ride to New York City top this week's Cranford Radio headlines. Get more on those stories, along with a rundown of what's happening this Veterans Day weekend, in this week's edition.
In November 1926 Cranford's brand new Branford Theatre opened with the movie, Padlocked. In November 2019, the newly renovated Cranford Theater reopened with films such as Joker, Last Christmas and The Addams Family. On Thursday night a ribbon-cutting took place. Cranford Radio spoke with Jesse Sadegh, the owner of the movie house.
After a two month closure a familiar Cranford landmark is reopening and Cranford has plans for grants from Union County. More on those stories, along with a look at CHS sports, weekend events and the weekend weather, in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
Who is Cranford up against as it looks to be named the top downtown in the state? The candidates for the township committee had an opportunity to address voters in a candidates' forum. More on those stories in this week's Cranford Radio headlines. We'll also give you a preview of what's happening this weekend with CHS sports, the weekend weather and what's going on around town.
A welcome return and a word of caution make news this week in Cranford. More on those stories along with a preview of an event-filled weekend, a look at Cougar sports and the weekend weather in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Get a full rundown of weekend events and more in the weekly email Cranford Radio Update. Just send a note to bernie@cranfordradio.com to be added to the distribution list.
Childhood cancers take both a financial and emotional toll on families. Two Cranford families in the midst of such a battle are getting some help from PROM-ise To Our Community. It's a grassroots effort that's raising funds via a party October 26.
Cranford Radio spoke with Lauren LaTorre and Randy Geis to learn more.
A bit of nostalgia and hope for a two-peat lead this week's news.
It's a weekend filled with events and sports and the weather is looking good for the three- day holiday.
A presentation on a proposed cell tower on the campus of Union County College has been postponed and a different kind of health and wellness event will take place in town on Saturday. More on those stories, along with a look at what's coming up this weekend, in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
Looks like a reprieve for the Cranford Theater and a popular downtown restaurant is reopening. More on those stories, along with Cougar sports, the weekend weather and events in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
Season 101 kicks off at the Cranford Dramatic Club on Friday, September 27 with a 1980s musical that looks at the Cold War through the perspective of a chess match. Cranford Radio spoke with Edgar Hidalgo, the director; Jack Bender, the musical director, and Jenna Ravenda, who plays Florence Vassy, to learn more about the production.
Infrastructure is in the news this week, both on a grand scale and a more modest one. Artists will be out in force around the downtown area this week and the weather should cooperate. Get more details in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
What would happen if one or both rail tunnels connecting New Jersey to Penn Station in New York were to close? The Regional Plan Association has examined that potential nightmare situation and made a presentation Monday evening. Hear more in this report from Cranford Radio.
The Township Committee takes action on 750 Walnut Avenue and the owner of the Cranford Theater property talks about the future of the movie house. More on those stories, along with the usual rundown of Cranford events, CHS sports and the weekend weather in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Cranford's newest business, a QuickChek convenience store and gas station, is set to open Tuesday, September 10 at 5 am. A ribbon-cutting took place Monday afternoon with a number of QuickChek and town officials in attendance, including Mayor Patrick Giblin, Senator Tom Kean Jr. and Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz.
QuickChek president and CEO Dean Durling was on hand and he spoke with Cranford Radio about the new store, including how a portion of the sales will benefit the Cranford Soccer Club.
One business closes and another opens. The students are back and sports action returns to Cranford High. More on those stories along with the three-day forecast and weekend events in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
No, Cranford has not changed its name to Paterson and there's a new principal coming to Livingston Avenue School. Find out more on these stories and hear how the Labor Day weekend forecast is shaping up.
A public meeting to consider a contentious proposal for a cell tower on the campus of Union County College has been postponed and Cranford cops got a dunking for a worthy cause.
A taste of fall is in the air for this weekend's weather and it should make Sunday's downtown street fair very comfortable.
More on these stories in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
A Cranford fire engine has been dedicated in memory of a former call member and three retail establishments have been approved for the new development at the corner of Chestnut Street and Walnut Avenue.
Those stories, along with the weekend weather and upcoming events, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Cranford High School has improved its ranking in the newest survey of schools around the state and Downtown Cranford's logo may have a new look.
More on those stories along with the weekend weather and events for the coming week in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
While much of the election attention is focused on the race for the White House in 2020, there's also an important non-partisan choice coming up this November on the local ballot. Six candidates have announced their plans to run for the three open seats on the Cranford Board of Education.
Another deer hunt is planned in Union County parks, including two in Cranford, but dates are still to be determined.
This Tuesday join citizens from around the US as they mark National Night Out. The Cranford Police Department will again host activities between 6 and 9.
More news, events and weather in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
The principal of Livingston Avenue School is moving to Hillside Avenue School and some drivers find out why it's not a good idea to drive into a water-covered roadway.
The weekend will be warm, but not nearly as hot as last weekend and Cranford kids have some fun activities to look forward to during the upcoming week.
Fireworks, canoe races and foot races were part of an extended holiday celebration this week in town, but in between a brisk walk may have allowed you to move more quickly than traffic on North Avenue. More on those stories, along with the weekend forecast and some upcoming events, in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
We have over 300 new alumni of Cranford High School and there's a new principal coming to Orange Avenue School. More on those stories, your weekend weather and a the start of the Independence Day celebration in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
Lockey Maisonneuve's story is far from finished, but to see how she survived during the opening chapters of her life is to see examples of resilience that few can imagine. The Cranford resident shared her story with Cranford Radio.
For those who would like to learn more, you can find her book here.
A CHS coach is recognized for his sportsmanship and a special "traffic safety" version for the Waze app is created by the Union County Traffic Officers Association. More on those stories along with the weekend weather and a couple of upcoming events round out this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
A measles warning has been issued in Cranford and a flag recognizing Pride Month flies in front of the Cranford Municipal Building. More on those stories along with weekend events and weather in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
The Cranford Planning Board has voted on the Hartz Mountain proposal for 750 Walnut Avenue and township officials explain why there's been a change in the fireworks display. More on those stories along with a great weekend weather forecast and info on how you can celebrate Cranford on Sunday.
Sometimes the toughest part of your workday can be just getting to your job. Finding a parking spot and hoping you'll find a seat on the train or bus can be a challenge. Boxcar is a company created by Cranford resident Joe Colangelo and we talked with him about his unique enterprise and how it's addressing those issues.
May wraps-up with the routing of the 69 kV power lines through town still being examined and I think it's safe to say drought is not a big concern for the Cranford area. Speaking of rain, it again is a possibility for a portion of the weekend. Catch up on the week's news, events and weather with this edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
Results are in from the survey for Reimaging Cranford Public Schools and pedestrian safety is in the spotlight. Those stories, along with the Memorial Day Weekend forecast and events, highlight this week's news.
Residents share their thoughts with planning board on 750 Walnut Avenue and PSE&G says it's considering an alternative route for the 69kV power lines. These stories, along with CHS sports, weekend events and the weather forecast in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Two controversial topics headline this week's news from Cranford. CHS spring sports continue their contests, and some fun events can be found coming up on the calendar.
Cranford's 8th annual Holocaust Day of Remembrance will take place on Monday, May 6th at Hillside Avenue School starting at 7:30 pm. Those attending will hear from Mollie Sperling. Mrs. Sperling, and her husband Henry, are two of a ever decreasing number of survivors of the Holocaust. They lived in Cranford for a number of years and are members of Temple Beth El Mekor Chayim.
Cranford Radio spent some time with Mrs. Sperling in her home to hear her amazing story.
Mollie Sperling's memories of the Holocaust
Another Dunkin' and a power outage top this week's news. It's Union County Tournament time for many of the CHS teams, and a busy weekend with so-so weather lies ahead.
Learn about a proposal from PSE&G that is raising concerns around town, and two vacant downtown storefronts will soon have new tenants. Those are this week's top stories. We also have the very wet forecast and some weekend activities you can look forward to.
The week ended on a tragic note with a fatal house fire in town, and three Cranford schools are now home to police substations. We'll also bring you up-to-date on CHS sports, the weekend weather and upcoming events in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Each weekday some 1,500 riders use NJ Transit's Cranford station. That's only a fraction of the approximately 23,000 riders on the Raritan Valley Line and more are anticipated as development continues in the four counties along the line. The RVL Mayors' Alliance was created to advocate for what they call equitable treatments for the line's users. Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr serves as co-chair of the alliance, along with Westfield Mayor Shelley Brindle. Cranford Radio spoke with Mayor Mahr to learn more about the group and their goals.
Find out who's running on the GOP and Democratic tickets for the Cranford Township Committee and also learn why Governor Murphy was in town Thursday morning. Those headlines, along with CHS sports, weather and upcoming events in this week's headlines.
When we think of history and how it's saved we often consider photographs, written records and moving pictures. What's sometimes overlooked is the audio record of the past. Andy Lanset is in charge of finding, restoring and cataloging the extensive collection of audio from two of the New York area's most iconic radio stations; WNYC and WQXR. Lanset is an audio archivist for New York Public Radio and one Saturday morning two radio veterans got together to talk about his unique profession.
Cranford was host to two meetings of regional significance the past week. Spring sports are in swing at CHS and the weather will feel quite spring-like, at least Friday and Saturday. More details in this week's Cranford Radio Headlines.
It's called one of the most important infrastructure projects in the United States. The Gateway Program has several major components including new rail tunnels under the Hudson River and the replacement of the 108-year old Portal Drawbridge over the Hackensack River. Tuesday evening the Raritan Valley Rail Coalition sponsored a presentation on the project in the Cranford Community Center. The main speaker was Jerry Zaro, the chairman of the Gateway Development Corporation. Cranford Radio spoke with Zaro after the meeting to get a status update.
Andrea and Jim Carbine opened 100 Steps Supper Club + Raw Bar in December 2013, six years after creating A Toute Heure. Two years ago the Carbines sold both Centennial Avenue restaurants and Saad "Jack" Tagmouti bought the respected eatery. Tagmouti brought on an old colleague, Joe Beninato, as the executive chef and together they've brought their own ideas to 100 Steps. The two talked with Cranford Radio about their experiences and their plans to keep the restaurant fresh and progressive.
Seventh District Congressman Tom Malinowski held a town hall at Union County College in Cranford Saturday afternoon. Audience members had an opportunity to ask the new representative questions on a variety of topics. At the conclusion, Cranford Radio spoke with the representative about the event and his first months in Congress.
Have a sudden urge to serve on the township committee? Check out this week's headlines for what you need to do in the next week if you want to be on the ballot. New Jersey teams may be out of the NCAA men's basketball tournament, but the Union County College women's basketball team is going strong in their quest for a national championship.
CHS sports, the weekend weather, and upcoming events round out this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
Jean-Albert Maisonneuve has served on the Cranford Township Committee since January 2018. Like each of the members of the committee he brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the position. Maisonneuve spoke with Cranford Radio to talk about both his background and what he hopes to accomplish during his time as an elected official.
A proposed Wawa in Cranford is a step closer and residents are invited to an update on the Gateway Program. Those are the top stories this week. Spring sports are in action this weekend for Cranford High School and we have some events to check out, as well.
State officials held meetings this week on two topics of concern to Cranford residents; affordable housing and NJ Transit service on the Raritan Valley Line. You'll hear more in this week's Cranford Radio headlines along with the warming weather and events happening around town this weekend.
You may have to think a bit to find similarities between being in-charge of slime and running a social media company, but Rich Barry is combining years of experience promoting shows such as Rugrats, Clarissa Explains It All and Hey Arnold with a love of motorsports for a new company he's created, Speed Social. Cranford Radio talked with Rich to get a better idea of what the company is about and to learn a bit more about slime.
Assemblyman Jon Bramnick (R-Union) and Assemblywoman Holly Schepisi (R-Bergen) held a town hall meeting Tuesday night at Union County College on the issue of affordable housing. The issue has been a hot topic in Cranford with developments on Birchwood and Walnut avenues. Before the meeting, Cranford Radio spoke with Assemblyman Bramnick.
In Monopoly, you have to pay a tax if you land on one of the railroad properties. In this week's headlines trains and taxes are our top stories. Snow appears in the forecast for all three days of the weekend and weekend events offer the end of Winter Restaurant Week and some Peruvian culture.
In 1932, the year the College Women's Club of Cranford was formed, tuition, books, room and board at the University of Pennsylvania was a little over $1,000 a year. Costs this year at the Ivy League school are over $65,000. Scholarships from the CWC have helped students pay for rising college costs. Cranford Radio spoke with four members of the club; President Janet Collins, Vice President Vicki Goralski, Sandy Held and Elaine Romano, to learn about the CWC. We also talked about the upcoming Scholar Tea, which is being held the afternoon of March 24 in Bates Hall at the First Presbyterian Church.
Drugs head this week's Cranford Radio headlines but it's not about arrests or overdoses. Find out more when you get your two minute update. We also have the wet weekend forecast, CHS sports and some events to keep you busy.
It was February 2017 when Trinity Episcopal Church called Rev. Andrew Kruger to serve as its priest-in-charge. Since that time Father Andy has taken on responsibilities from preaching to youth ministry. These are duties other Cranford clergy are familiar with but Father Andy's background is significantly different. He shares a bit about his own story and tells us what's happening at Trinity in this Cranford Radio interview.
Cranford was saddened to learn of the passing of 15-year old Raymond Schwartz Jr. this week. Information on services for Ray are included in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
Additionally, there's an update with the weekend weather, CHS sports and weekend events.
A house fire and neighbors helping a Cranford family with a medical emergency head this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines. We also let you know about the weekend weather and the start of tournament play for the boys' basketball team at CHS.
Did you know Cranford has an online Christian radio station broadcasting around-the-clock from studios on Raritan Road? The Gate is getting set to celebrate three years "on the air" from their studios in the International House of Prayer Eastern Gate. George Flores, a long-time NYC-area broadcaster, is the man behind the mic for The Gate and he spoke to Cranford Radio about the service.
Change at Track 5. That's what Raritan Valley Line passengers will be hearing until at least this spring as direct service to and from Manhattan remains suspended. The good news? When your train finally does pull in to the station you can enjoy some great deals at Downtown Cranford restaurants as Downtown Restaurant Week returns. More on these stories, plus the warming weather forecast, CHS sports and weekend events in this week's Cranford Radio Headlines.
There are a number of homes standing in Cranford that were built in the 1800s but it's unusual for so old a home to have been owned by only three families over all those years. The home at 203 Holly Street, at the corner of Alden Street, is such a house.
It was built by Santiago Porcella and one of his grandsons, Robert Sherman Morley, CHS Class of '49, grew up in the home. In November, relatives of Robert came back to Cranford to visit the home of their ancestors. Judy Hutchins, one of Robert's daughters, lived in the house and she, along with current owner, Terri Hunsinger, sat down in the dining room of the home to talk about about the history of the house.
Livingston Avenue School was the site of the most recent community meeting to discuss the "Reimagining Cranford Public Schools" proposal and federal workers from Cranford have resources to help them get through the partial government shutdown. More on these stories, along with CHS sports, the weekend weather and events in this week's Cranford Radio Headlines.
For the seventh consecutive year groups and individuals from throughout Cranford came together Monday to honor the memory of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a service project fair at the First Presbyterian Church. Cranford Radio was in attendance and spoke with Janice Grevious about the event.
Cranford resident Bette Jane Kowalski was elected by her fellow freeholders to serve as the chair of the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders for 2019. Cranford Radio met with Kowalski to learn about her priorities in the coming year.
Each January the Cranford Clergy Council presents the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award at a community service. The award "is presented to persons who have represented in their own lives the ideals and commitments of Dr. King." This year's recipient was Cindy Hannen. Hannen chairs the Interfaith Human Relations Committee of the Clergy Council. The award was presented at the 38th annual commemorative service sponsored by the Clergy Council, held this year at Calvary Lutheran Church. Following the service, Cranford Radio spoke with Cindy about the award and her service to the community.
It's January but a Christmas ornament made news this week in town and the Cranford Clergy Council has recognized a long-time volunteer. Wrestlers, cheerleaders, bowlers and basketball players are all in action this weekend and keep an eye on the weather for a little bit of everything before the big freeze arrives.
The impact of the opioid epidemic in Cranford was dramatically shown in statistics released by the Cranford Police Department and the new chairman of the Union County Board of Freeholders comes from Cranford. In CHS sports, the wrestling team is looking to again repeat as champions in the Union County Tournament. More on these stories and others in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
The faces are the same on the Cranford Township Committee but there's been some changes in positions. The Union County Prosecutor has announced a resolution in the case of the Orange Avenue School teacher accused of making a threat against the school. More on these stories along with the weekend weather and high school sports schedule in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
The Cranford Township Committee held their reorganization meeting January 2 and elected Patrick Giblin as the town's new mayor. Ann Dooley will again serve as deputy mayor. Cranford Radio spoke with Giblin at the conclusion of the meeting to learn his priorities in 2019.
In this final edition of Cranford Radio headlines for 2018 we look ahead to 2019 when four new police officers are expected to join the CPD ranks. Curbside Christmas tree pickups will take place again in January. CHS teams are participating in holiday tournaments this weekend and the weather is looking better once we get past Friday.
A new mayor will be leading the Cranford Township Committee in 2019 and the Cranford Police Department will be watching for impaired drivers during the holidays. More news from around town, along with the extended Christmas weekend forecast,are what you'll hear in this week's headlines.
A fatal fire and the continuation of full-day kindergarten tops Cranford's news of the past week.
Lots more holiday events to fill your calendar this weekend and a damp forecast, along with a busy schedule of Cranford High School sports round out this week's update.
This week brought another hearing on 750 Walnut Avenue and a parking lot returns to downtown. Those news stories, along with a rundown of holiday happenings, CHS sports and the weekend weather are what you'll hear in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
This week's headlines covers the continuing testimony by Hartz Mountain on their plan to build an apartment complex at 750 Walnut Avenue and a proposal to equip Cranford police officers with body cameras.
Holiday events pick up as we move into December and the weekend weather will bring some precipitation but fortunately it will be too warm for snow.
A group of rather unusual characters will be making appearances in Cranford during December. The Cat in the Hat, Thing 1 and Thing 2, as well as a cameo by the Grinch are part of the next show at the Cranford Dramatic Club. Seussical is the CDC's holiday show and Cranford Radio paid a visit to Whoville to chat with director Zachary Mazouat, Garrett Hanlon (JoJo) and Zach Love (Horton).
Hope you enjoyed a great Thanksgiving! The actual holiday is over but there's still plenty of holiday activities taking place this weekend including Track Friday and Small Business Saturday. You find details on these stories and more in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
A look out your window lets you know the top story of the week. It wasn't a lot of snow, but a missed forecast combined with bad timing meant many Cranford residents spent hours trying to get home Thursday evening. On a much more positive note, Downtown Cranford was voted the top downtown in the state in a contest sponsored by NJ.com.
In other signs of winter, the CHS hockey team returns to the ice Friday afternoon and the first couple of holiday events take place this weekend. All this and more in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
It was a big turnout for the first community meeting on the "Reimagining Cranford Public Schools" proposal Tuesday night and the town has a new interim township administrator. It's playoff season for CHS sports teams and lots of autumn activities in town this weekend but the weather may not cooperate for the first half of the weekend.
More in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Batten down the hatches! A nor'easter is headed our way and could bring heavy rain and wind Friday night and Saturday. While you're inside, watch the two candidates for the township committee debate on TV35 and don't forget to vote to make Cranford #1 in NJ.com's contest to find New Jersey's top downtown.
Get details on these and other stories in Cranford Radio's headlines for the week of October 26.
Two continuing stories are once again in the headlines this week. First, additional meetings have been announced to discuss the "Reimaging Cranford Public Schools" proposal put forth by Superintendent Dr. Scott Rubin. This week also saw a continuation of the testimony of the traffic consultant hired by Hartz Mountain for the 750 Walnut Avenue proposal.
The weather forecast for the weekend sounds ideal for autumn activities, but bundle up if you're headed to any of the outdoor CHS sports events taking place this weekend.
The Cranford Dramatic Club is certainly not resting on its laurels as it begins its record-breaking 100th season with "A Few Good Men." Only last month the club was recognized with the NJACT Community Theatre of the Year Award and efforts such as this show why the CDC was honored. Cranford Radio spoke with Matt Burns (Director/Lt. Col. Nathan Jessep), Mike Burdick (Lt. J.G. Daniel A. Kaffee), Joe Leo (Lt. J.G. Sam Weinberg) and Cheryl Sarkaria (Lt. Cmdr. Joanne Galloway) to get a preview.
Some big changes have been proposed for the Cranford Public Schools and Downtown Cranford is being recognized by a statewide planning organization. Those two stories top the week's news.
The football and field hockey teams will celebrate Senior Night this weekend during games and several squads will play in tournament action. The coolest temperatures of the season will be around Saturday but the skies should be sunny for outdoor events including Porchest and the downtown street fair.
If things had taken a different turn, Carol Bryan might have become a cosmetologist, but a job interview led to an insurance career and for the past four years she's run the Carol Bryan Agency for Farmers Insurance in Kenilworth. In our continuing series profiling members of the Cranford Area Chamber of Commerce, we talk to Carol to learn a bit about her life and her business.
It's Columbus Day weekend and that means most banks are closed Monday and there will be no mail delivery. Cranford schools will have a single session. Speaking of Cranford schools, the CHS varsity teams have a busy schedule this weekend and the weather should cooperate. Catch up on what's happening with this week's headlines.
The news is good on both the flood mitigation and crime fronts as far as Cranford is concerned. Fall sports action is in full swing for the Cranford Cougars, there are plenty of things to do around town, and it looks as if the weather is going to be ideal.
The Board of Education and the Zoning Board are in the news this week. The Orange Avenue Pool may have closed for human swimming for the season, but Sunday the dogs get to do the doggy paddle. Details on this and more in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Cranford officials and clergy members remembered the events of September 11 on Tuesday evening and the continuing testimony of representatives of Hartz Mountain Industries was heard by the Planning Board Wednesday night.
It's a busy weekend with Cranford High School varsity sports and the weather should cooperate for that as well as various events taking place in town.
Hear all this in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
School's back and that means your weekend headlines once again include the CHS varsity sports events taking place over the weekend. That's in addition to the usual news, weather and events. Topping this week's news is a change in the race for the township committee and the latest on 750 Walnut Avenue.
Expect tighter security at Cranford Public Schools starting next week and CHS makes a big leap forward in the New Jersey Monthly ranking of high schools around the state. These stories along with your Labor Day weekend forecast and events can be heard in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
The Birchwood redevelopment site is no longer owned by the township and Raritan Valley Line mayors push for improvements. These are the top Cranford stories this week. The weather forecast looks great for Sunday's downtown street fair. Get a quick update on what's happening in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Come fall you may have an opportunity to get rid of all that junk that's been accumulating in your house and the town remembers Cranford Fire Department Call Lieutenant Brian Koshney. More on these stories, the weekend weather and what's happening around town in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Traveling to and from Manhattan is about to get more difficult, but don't worry you can mediate or go out to eat in Downtown Cranford. More on those stories, plus the weekend weather in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Another chapter was written Wednesday night for the future of 750 Walnut Avenue and kids will have a chance to collect trading cards for Cranford's police officers. More on these stories, the weather for the next three days and a yoga-filled weekend in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
The Cranford Public School District is facing a lawsuit and Sunny Acres appears on the road to being designated a Cranford historic district. More on these stories, plus a look at your weekend weather and events around town in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
There's a new look for Cranford's police cars and the Planning Board has a hearing scheduled Wednesday for 750 Walnut Avenue. These stories along with the weekend forecast and events are part of this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Ahhhh... It's not much but it looks as if it will be cooler this weekend. Cranford has a new police officer and over 1,000 racers participated in Wednesday's Firecracker 4-Miler. Details are just a click away with this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
The platform rehabilitation project at the Cranford railroad station has been completed and Cranford is getting set for a big Independence Day celebration. That, along with the hot forecast, can be heard in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
It's on to post-high school life for the CHS Class of 2018. You may soon no longer need a variance for some driveway repaving projects in town and the weekend weather is a mixed bag. All this and more in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
It's going to be a sunny and warm weekend as Father's Day is celebrated. There are several events taking place that Dad might want to be involved with. On the news front, the Planning Board approved a couple of applications involving a home and an abandoned service station.
There were no surprises in the Republican or Democratic primaries for the Cranford Township committee this past Tuesday. There are further details on what will and won't be accepted for curbside recycling pickups. You get more details on these and other stories in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
Posh Paws is tucked away in corner of Cranford 673 Raritan Road but the dog grooming business is very much a part of the community. As part of our continuing series profiling members of the Cranford Area Chamber of Commerce, Cranford Radio spoke with Amanda Dinis about her business and her experiences as a dog groomer.
Cranford commemorated its war dead on Memorial Day with a parade and service. With tougher recycling rules now in effect, there's a new app to help you make sense of it all. The high school sports season winds down and it's a mixed bag, weather-wise, for the weekend.
Ryan Greco grew up in Cranford and has spent his career with the Cranford Police Department. In October, he was sworn in as the town's police chief. Cranford Radio paid the chief a visit to learn a bit more about his life and his plans for the CPD.
A new capital budget has been approved for Cranford and the town prepares to honor the fallen on Memorial Day. These and other stories highlight this week's headlines.
I have no way to know when you're reading this, but whatever time of day it is, it's a good time to enjoy some fresh-baked banana bread and I know just the right person to go to. Dawn Reynolds is the founder and owner of Bessie's Best Breads. Dawn tells me what brought her to the kitchen to bake that first loaf and what see sees for the future for her business.
Heroism comes in many forms. Two different varieties were recognized this week by the Cranford Police Department. One involved risking lives to save someone in peril and the other is fighting a life-changing disease. Those are the top Cranford stories of the past week. We also let you know about the annual Cranford Family Weekend and take a look at the weekend forecast.
Ricot and Helena Jean Baptiste have only owned Urban Burger since last September but already they made Travel Pulse's list for the best burger in every state. A new menu, music lists put together by Ricot and events such as beer nights are some of the ways the restaurant is changing.
Cranford Radio spoke with Ricot to learn more about what's new and what's coming.
Heads up. There are new recycling rules that will be in effect for the next town-wide recycling on Tuesday. You can get the details in this week's Cranford Radio headlines. You'll also hear about CHS sports and the weekend weather and events.
Hundreds of people use the Cranford Community Center weekly. As they move through the atrium they may see what appears to be a pile of rocks beneath the stairs to the second level. On closer examination, you'll find some piping and smooth stones that once were part of a water garden. Cranford's three garden clubs recently received a grant from the National Garden Clubs to restore the water garden. The grant, however, falls short of what's needed to bring back the soothing sounds of flowing water. On Sunday, June 10, the Floraphile Garden Club, the Garden Club of Cranford and the Green Thumb Garden Club of Cranford will hold a brunch at Pairings to raise money for the project. Cranford Radio spoke with Deb Murphy, Carol English and Brenda Flahault to learn more about the project and the brunch.
Additional support comes from the Cranford Recreation & Parks Department. For tickets or further information please email Sue Matlosz at cranfordwatergarden@gmail.com.
Downtown streets were filled with thousands Sunday afternoon for the spring street fair. Later in the week CHS students participated in the National Day of Silence. The track, lacrosse and baseball teams all have weekend action and cooler temps return Saturday.
An ordinance approving a new capital budget for the township and the annual river clean-up are the top stories in this week's Cranford Radio headlines. CHS teams begin Union County Tournament action and rain is a possibility all three days of the weekend.
A musical comedy will close out the 99th season of the Cranford Dramatic Club. Once Upon a Mattress will be on the CDC stage the weekends of May 4 through 19.
Zach Mazouat is the director and set designer and Jaimie Michelle Bass is the choreographer. Cranford Radio spoke to both to learn about the play and what audiences can expect.
It was a tough start to the work week when flash flooding and rail problems caused long delays. Cranford's baseball coach notched a milestone win and the weekend weather looks as if it will cooperate for a variety of special events including the annual Rahway River cleanup.
It could be argued that the Cranford Public Schools have the biggest impact on the township in many ways. Dr. Scott Rubin came to the school system as superintendent last summer, taking over for interim superintendent Dr. Marilyn Birnbaum.
Cranford Radio met with Dr. Rubin in his office at Lincoln School and used the time to learn a bit about his background and some of the goals he has, as well as the challenges he sees.
The Sunny Acres Civic Association and 120 Walnut Avenue were recognized Sunday afternoon with the 2018 Cranford Historic Preservation Awards by the Cranford Historical Society and the Cranford Historic Preservation Advisory Board in a ceremony at the Hanson House. Sunny Acres is the first association recognized in the seven years of the award. The building at 120 Walnut Avenue is home of the dental practice of Dr. Thomas Pijanowski.
Cranford Radio spoke with Maureen Strazdon, the chair of HPAB and Carole Esposito, president of the Sunny Acres Civic Association, about the award.
Cranford has a new municipal budget and spring temperatures have finally arrived. These stories, along with other news, sports and events, can be heard in this week's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
The Shining Stars Network has done annual performances at Cranford schools for the past six years. This year will be special as they move to the Union County Performing Arts Center in Rahway. Beth Wolfe is an assistant director for the group she and Ryan Fay, who will again emcee the show, talked with Cranford Radio about the upcoming show and what it means to the special needs community who are featured.
Just four months into her term as the deputy mayor and 15 months into her service on the township committee, Ann Dooley sat down with Cranford Radio for a get acquainted session. As we've done during interviews with other elected officials serving Cranford, the purpose of this interview was to learn a bit more about her background and what drove her to serve in elected office.
In Cranford news, the Cranford Planning Board made a decision on the the Birchwood Avenue redevelopment plan Wednesday night and Michael Petrucci is the Republican candidate for the township committee.
You'll also get an update on UCC and CHS sports, the weekend weather and events taking place over the weekend.
In this week's Cranford Radio headlines: The Cranford Township Committee and the Planning Board have key meetings in the beginning of April.
We have the forecast for your Passover and Easter weekend and a look at Cranford sports and events for the holiday weekend.
Young adulthood is a time of transitions. For many older teenagers it's a time of heading from high school to college, but for a smaller number of individuals it's a time to move from school to serving in the military. Martha Papson Garcia is the Director of Veterans Services for Outreach and the ROTC Liaison in the Office of Veterans Services at Fairleigh Dickinson University.
In this Cranford Radio interview she talks about her work with veterans who are attending college after their service and those students who plan to enter the military through ROTC. She also discusses about her numerous volunteer roles in Cranford.
Welcome to spring! (I think) The top Cranford story of the week was the storm that dumped more snow on the town. The good news is the extended forecast has no mention of a fifth nor'easter.
The Union County College women's basketball team is in Arkansas competing in the National Junior College Athletic Association's National Tournament. Back in New Jersey, the CHS spring sports will be in action.
Students at Cranford schools took part in events to honor the 17 victims of the school shooting in Florida last month and the first candidate for the Cranford Township Committee has announced his candidacy. These stories top Cranford news this week.
Cool weather and spring sports are on tap for this St. Patrick's Day weekend, and the CHS spring musical and a touring college choir performance will keep you busy.
This week's headlines look at the snow and the problems it caused as well as a "shelter in place" which affected two Cranford schools. Cranford baseball season kicks off Friday afternoon in a home contest and we'll get to enjoy some sunshine Saturday and Sunday.
While Patrick Giblin is at the start of his second three-year term on the Cranford Township Committee, Cranford Radio looks to learn a little more about those people who volunteer their time to serve the town in elective office beyond their public role. Continuing a series where we previously interviewed Mayor Tom Hannen and Commissioner Mary O'Connor, we sat down with Commissioner Giblin to hear about his early years and what drew him to elective office.
Dancing, singing and acting all come together in the Cranford High School spring musical, Legally Blonde. The play will be presented on March 16 and 17 at 7:30 pm and on Sunday, March 18 at 2 pm. Several members of the cast, Katrina Wischusen, Daniel Klimko, Pria McNeil, Nora Sullivan, Noah Wohlsen, Max Kopla and Haley Baranowski took time out after a rehearsal to talk to Cranford Radio about the play and their thoughts on being a part of it.
If we can make it through some rough weather Friday and early Saturday morning, it looks like a pretty good weekend. In the headlines from the past week, Gabe Bailer has assumed the role of Downtown Director from the retired Kathleen Miller Prunty. The survey for the draft downtown strategic plan is now available for your comments.
There will be extended hours for the Cranford Public Library starting in April.
The girls swimming team and the cheerleading squad will be busy this weekend and the Union County College baseball and lacrosse teams are scheduled to start their seasons.
Residents received an update on a draft of the Downtown Cranford strategic plan Thursday evening and the superintendent of schools sent a letter to parents following the mass murder at a Florida high school. These stories top Cranford Radio headlines for the week of February 23. The CHS wrestlers and the Union County College Owls are in tournaments this weekend and rain dominates the weekend forecast.
A number of township residents, business owners and downtown property owners gathered Thursday evening at the Community Center to hear a presentation on a strategic plan that's being developed for Downtown Cranford. Following the presentation, they were given the opportunity to rate the goals and objectives in the draft plan. The presentation was given by Anthony Durante, the chairman of the District Management Corporation and the head of the Strategic Planning Committee. He spoke with Cranford Radio about the plan and what lies ahead.
The third production of the Cranford Dramatic Club's season is now playing at the Winans Avenue playhouse. Crimes of the Heart is being performed the weekends of February 16 and 22. Cranford Radio spoke with director Maurice Moran and Cranford resident Maeve Brady, who plays Lenny.
This weekend's update brings you news from the Downtown Management Corporation and the Cranford Police Department. It's tournament time for Cranford High School sports and it looks like winter weather will make a messy return to the area Saturday night.
Get all the news, sports, weather and weekend events in this Presidents' Day Weekend edition of Cranford Radio Headlines.
Buffalo wings are seemingly available in almost every restaurant these days. A native of the Buffalo area recently opened a restaurant in Downtown Cranford that lets area residents not only see how the originals taste but also offers some other favorites from Western New York. Michael Maggio is the owner of Little Buffalo and we sat down in the restaurant after the lunch rush to talk about it and what led him to open an eatery.
You might not see the Cesar-Kai Academy or The MAX Challenge as you drive past 777 Walnut Avenue, but tucked in the rear of the building are two Cranford businesses that will help anyone from three to 93 get and stay in shape. Mario Cesario has made his passion for fitness a business that's continuing to grow with a new center in Watchung and, coming soon, an after-school program in Cranford. Hear when Mario has to say in this Cranford Radio interview.
An attempted child-luring incident and a Cranford connection to the Winter Olympics top this week's Cranford Headlines. The CHS boys basketball team begins their run in the Union County Tournament while other teams keep busy this weekend with contests home and away. You'll find some warmer temperatures this weekend but the price is rain Saturday and Sunday. As always, there are events around town to keep you busy.
Craft stores have supplies for a variety of projects. Most can be done at home. But for something a bit more imaginative and elaborate you need tools you likely won't find in your basement. Kick Glass Art Studio at 536 South Avenue East is coming up on their first anniversary in Cranford and they not only will teach you how to work with many different types of glass, but they supply the materials, tools and kilns that make beautiful projects possible. Sheila Hughes and Donna Slevin are the co-owners of Kick Glass and in this Cranford Area Chamber of Commerce member profile they told Cranford Radio about what beginners and more experienced glass workers can do. They also discussed some of the other aspects of the business such as their gallery, restoration work and commissions.
Geri Livelli's, 'The Cameo,' was published last year. It's a story that spans portions of the 19th and 20th centuries and can be described as a work of historical fiction. While this is Geri's first book she certainly is not unknown to Cranford and its residents. She was one of the founding members of the Hanson Park Conservancy and is a long-time member of Cranford's Green Thumb Garden Club.
Geri sat down with Cranford Radio to talk about the book and some of her volunteer efforts in town. She'll have a book signing at Periwinkle's on Saturday, February 10 between 1 and 4 pm.
The Cranford Public Schools are in the news this week as they begin a strategic planning initiative looking ahead to 2023. Also, a Cranford woman is among those being honored with a Women of Excellence Award from the Union County Commission on the Status of Women. In CHS varsity sports, both the bowling and track teams are involved in state sectionals. Other teams are also active over the weekend.
The weather takes a turn toward more wintery conditions over the next few days but we have some indoor activities to keep you warm.
If you've had kids in Cranford schools or you attended them yourself, you know Cranford's teams are called the Cougars. A big part of school pride is wearing the school colors of blue and gold and letting folks know you're a Cranford Cougar. For nearly seven years Cougar Headquarters has been providing not just hometown clothing, but all sorts of local items as well as custom products. Donna and Scott Marino own Cougar Headquarters and RaeAnn Weaver is the store manager. In the latest Cranford Area Chamber of Commerce member profile, Cranford Radio spoke with Donna and RaeAnn and learned there's more to Cougar Headquarters than just the Centennial Avenue storefront.
The Cranford Township Committee has made changes to the North Avenue Redevelopment Study concerning the properties that are a part of the study and the use of eminent domain.
The Trinitas School of Nursing held their graduation ceremony in Cranford on Sunday and the Knights of Columbus have made a donation to the Cranford Municipal Alliance.
Lots of sports action taking place at both CHS and Union County College and the weekend's looking warmer.
You'll hear details on these stories and weekend events in this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
On Sunday, February 4, many Cranford residents will be sitting in front of their TVs watching the New England Patriots take on the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LII. Of course, what would the game be without some food?
For a number of years, Cranford resident Rich Pierce, his family and some friends have cooked up over 100 trays of chicken wings that are enjoyed during the game. While the wings are delicious that's not what makes them special. A portion of the money raised goes to help a local family. It's a story though, that goes back 16 years. Cranford Radio spoke with Rich to learn more about the project and its origins.
On Sundays you'll likely find Charlie Cacici at Calvary Tabernacle on Myrtle Street in Cranford. He's an evangelical minister for the church. At other times, though, he's often at work at GEC Communities. There, the work he and his partner Joe Battiato do focuses on saving a portion of the rainforest in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Joe and Charlie joined Cranford Radio for a discussion about their business and how a small company in Union County is having an impact in Africa.
The past week was marked by remembrances of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Two highlights were Cranford's sixth annual Day of Service which took place at the First Presbyterian Church on Monday and Thursday's interfaith service at Trinity Episcopal Church. At that gathering, Kevin Mahoney was recognized with the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Award for his work with the homeless.
It was a notable week for the CHS wrestlers, who won their fourth consecutive Union County Tournament last weekend. A number of CHS teams will be competing this weekend.
The weekend weather forecast looks promising.
Cranford clergy members, township officials and members of the community gathered Thursday evening at Trinity Episcopal Church for the annual Cranford Community Interfaith Service. A highlight of the event was the presentation of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Award to Kevin Mahoney of St. Michael Church. Kevin was recognized by the Cranford Clergy Council for his volunteer work with the Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless, St. Joseph Social Service Center and Family Promise.
Following the service, Cranford Radio spoke with Mr. Mahoney about his work.
It's one thing to read history in a book. It's a whole other thing to have lived it. Rabbi Sidney Shanken served as the rabbi of Temple Beth-El in Cranford from 1957 until 1980 and he took part in two of the biggest historic events of the 20th century; World War II and the civil rights movement. Shanken flew 54 combat missions over Europe as part of the US Army Air Corps. After being wounded he returned to the States.
This was not the only time, though, that he served his country. In the early 1960s, as legal segregation and discrimination were being fought, he again felt called. He traveled to the South and became a Freedom Rider and marched with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Alabama.
Cranford Radio had the honor of speaking with Rabbi Shanken as he recounted some of his experiences.
Dozens of volunteers turned out to assemble personal care kits and other items for the homeless on Martin Luther King Day at the First Presbyterian Church. Two of the organizers of the event, Janice Grevious and Cindy Hannen, spoke with Cranford Radio about the event what else will be happening this week.
A draft report on potential redevelopment of a section of North Avenue East in Downtown Cranford is the top story on Cranford Radio headlines this week. You'll also hear about the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders.
It's a busy weekend for Cranford sports and the forecast shows early spring-like temperatures on Friday followed by a quick return of winter weather.
Among the events this weekend, you can pick up a used book at a great price at the Cranford Library. On Monday, make Martin Luther King Day a day to give back.
The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders have elected Elizabeth resident Sergio Granados to serve as their chairman for 2018. At Sunday's reorganization meeting, Granados outlined his initiatives for the coming year. On Thursday, he spoke with Cranford Radio to discuss them further.
One new member joins the Cranford Township Committee and Cranford digs out and tries to stay warm following a storm. I doubt anyone will feel any warmth listening to the weekend forecast, but you can keep you mind off the weather by taking in a CHS or Union County College sporting event.
The annual township reorganization meeting took place Tuesday evening at the municipal building. Jean-Albert Maisonneuve was sworn into office for his first term on the township committee. Patrick Giblin took the oath of office to begin his second term. Additionally, a number of appointments were made to various township boards and committees. The township committee elected Ann Dooley as Deputy Mayor and Tom Hannen, Jr. as Mayor. At the conclusion of the meeting, Cranford Radio spoke with Hannen about the year ahead.
Taxes and deer hunting make the headlines in this week's edition of Cranford Radio Headlines. You'll hear the cold, and a bit snowy forecast, get up-to-date on Cranford High School sports and learn how you can end 2017 by making the donation of life.
A promotion and appointments at the Cranford Police Department, farewell to an outgoing township commissioner and the installation of new rabbis at Temple Beth El Mekor Chayim top Cranford news this week.
You’ll also hear about the possibility of a white Christmas and a rundown of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day worship services in town.
Community members gathered Thursday evening at the First Presbyterian Church for the second annual Homeless Persons' Vigil. The event remembers homeless people throughout Union County who died during the past year. The event is organized by a number of non-profit and inter-faith groups, including Cranford's Monarch Housing Associates.
Prior to the service Cranford Radio spoke with four people involved with the event, Rev. Caroline Unzaga, Associate Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church; Amy Jones, Manager of Volunteer Engagement for Family Promise; Linda Flores-Tober, Executive Director of the Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless and Nicole Allen, who once was homeless.
Cranford Police were involved in a pursuit this week, meanwhile the holiday decorations on John Street received some statewide notice. Santa will be busy on Saturday and Cranford's menorah lighting will take place Sunday evening. This, Cranford sports and the weekend weather are all part of this week's Cranford Radio headlines.
Another delay for Planning Board consideration of the rezoning of 750 Walnut Avenue, Cranford police officers raise thousands for cancer awareness and snow is in the forecast. This and more in this weekend's Cranford Radio headlines.
It's easy to miss the William Miller Sperry Observatory as you drive around town. After all, it's deep within the campus of Union County College. Every Friday night, a group interested in the skies above Cranford gather there to look at the Moon, planets and stars. Amateur Astronomers, Inc. makes their telescopes available to the public as one part of their multifaceted outreach. President Mary Ducca, Vice President Aaron Zuckerman and member Jim Nordhausen talked to Cranford Radio about AAI and how they promote an interest in the science of astronomy.
This weekend's headlines include the Cranford Township Committee taking action on the Birchwood Avenue site, an endowed scholarship from the Cranford FMBA to Union County College, your weekend weather forecast and some holiday events taking place around town.
If your yearly fix of A Christmas Carol is Mr. Magoo playing Ebenezer Scrooge, you should check out a much different style this December at the Cranford Dramatic Club. They'll be presenting a musical version of the play with all of the familiar characters as well as a few different ones. Cranford Radio was joined by a number of cast members to talk about the performance. They included Zach Love (Scrooge), Geovanna Ayala (Tiny Tim), Skyler Lipkind (Jonathan/ensemble), Mary Ellen Maguire (drunk/ensemble), Angela Pelletier (dancer), Shannon Andrus (dancer) and Susan Roberts (drunk/ensemble).
It's that time of the year when we start thinking about New Year's resolutions. Often those plans include getting ourselves fit. Ashley Legg, the owner of Legg Day Fitness, is someone to talk with to make the plans more than just a hope. She spoke with Cranford Radio about how she goes about helping someone take those first steps. She also discussed her new hometown of Cranford and how she's using her skills as a television reporter on TV35.
While not unprecedented, having a husband and wife jointly share a pulpit in a Conservative Jewish congregation is unusual. Temple Beth El Mekor Chayim is now being led by Rabbis Neil Tow and Rachel Schwartz. The two took on their duties in Cranford at the end of July. They sat down with Cranford Radio at the Temple to discuss their new roles and their early impressions of Cranford.
It's time for a long holiday weekend and there's plenty taking place in town to keep you busy over the next four days. Catch up on all the latest news and events in this early edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
On December 3rd, for the 28th year, the Cranford Woman's Club will host their Home for the Holidays House Tour. The tour is one of the year's highlights for the organization but it's only part of what they're about. In a conversation at the Rustic Mill Diner with Cranford Radio, co-presidents Marla Sattler and Louise Provence talk about the club and some of their other activities.
You've probably seen the signs around town, 21 Means 21. They're part of an effort by a group of volunteers and organizations called the Cranford Municipal Alliance. It's their goal to fight alcohol use by minors through educational efforts for children, teens and their parents.
Bill Ilaria serves as the chairman of the alliance and he spoke with Cranford Radio to talk about the organization's work.
The Cranford Township Committee introduced an ordinance for the Birchwood Avenue site, Cranford High will have their fall musical this weekend and the community Thanksgiving service takes place Monday evening. This and more in this week’s edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
Cranford Fish Stand is less than a month old but already making an impression on residents in town and from around the area. John and Jill Sabochick, along with Kevin Pipchick are the owners. Cranford Radio went to the store to learn more about the business and talk with John about what they offer and their plans for the future.
Arthur Hearns grew up in Cranford and that's also where he was introduced to the world of martial arts. Today, he runs Hands of Life Martial Arts in Garwood. His school is about more than teaching self-defense. With a focus on children, it's also about building character.
In this Cranford Area Chamber of Commerce member profile, Arthur talks about his business, the philosophy behind it, and how he came to create the school.
Two sets of election results were announced this week, the Cranford High School football team heads to the playoffs and a cold forecast highlight this weekend's edition of Cranford Radio headlines.
Kristina Kozak, her husband and sons, have done quite a bit of traveling. Kozak has taken the experiences, especially those of her children, to write a book, The Travels of Adventurous Alexander and Relentless Russell. The first book, in what's hoped to be a series, takes place in the Dominican Republic.
Kozak sat down with Cranford Radio at the Rustic Mill Diner to talk about the book and her experiences as an author and illustrator.
While the Raritan Valley Rail Coalition partially achieved one of its main objectives in March 2014 with the start of a one-seat ride to and from New York City on NJ Transit trains during middays, the Coalition continues to push for improvements. On Monday morning, the group held a membership meeting at Westfield Town Hall. Somerset County Freeholder Peter Palmer, who is the chairman of the rail group, gave an update on what needs to be done now.
Halloween is fast approaching and as you get ready for a day of trick or treating, please keep these traffic safety tips in mind from the Cranford Police Department.
This is a concept recording of what a Cranford Radio newscast might sound like. In two and a half minutes you hear a summary of news stories (supplied from TAPinto Cranford), Cranford High School sports, weather and upcoming events. It's an idea I hope might become a daily posting. Please give a listen and let me know what you think.
Those who watch Cake Boss know Buddy Valastro and his crew come up with some pretty outrageous creations. One of those special cakes will be a highlight of the seventh annual Rubber Ducky Race. The race, which supports the Hanson Park Conservancy, will be held October 22 at Sperry Park in Cranford. Cynthia Dawley is the president of the conservancy and Linda Livelli is in-charge of this year's race. Cranford Radio spoke with them to learn more about Hanson Park and the race.
The Cranford Dramatic Club opens its 99th season this month with "The Wild Party." It takes you back to 1929 in New York City; a time of Prohibition and vaudeville. Cranford Radio stopped by the theater as the actors, crew and director prepared for opening night on October 13. We spoke with Sean Lough, the director and performers Colleen Renee (Queenie), Shane Long (Burrs) and Elizabeth Allen (Nadine) to hear about the production.
While many people enjoy the Christmas holiday, not everyone enjoys getting their house or business decorated. Christmas Decor of New Jersey comes to the rescue by working with home and business owners to design and install their holiday decorations. In this Cranford Area Chamber of Commerce member profile, Cranford Radio talks with Rich Johns, the owner of the business, to discover what it's like to live Christmas year-round.
Fourteen short plays and monologues make up the Cranford Dramatic Club's 2017 Short Play Festival. The performances will be held September 7th, 8th and 9th. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Northern New Jersey Chapter of GLSEN.
Three of those involved in the festival spoke with Cranford Radio about the plays; co-producer Edgar Hidalgo, David Christopher, who is both a director and a performer, and Renee Celeste, an actor in two of the plays.
It's a first for the Cranford Dramatic Club. The CDC will be hosting the Hispanic Theatre Festival July 28-29 and August 4-5. Two one-act plays will be presented, Ana y las Langostas and Bony y Kim.
Cranford Radio paid a visit during a rehearsal to speak with Joel Redmount, founder of the festival, Alicia Dolinsky, the playwright of Ana y las Langostas and Valarie Beckford of Cranford who is playing the grandmother and also served as a translator for the interview.
Keep listening after the end of the interview to hear a taste of Bony y Kim performed by Milagros and Mareri Cortes who are the narrators in the show.
When the Cranford Historical Society was formed in 1927, Cranford had only been in existence 56 years as a township. A group of forward-thinking individuals, though, saw much more history in the community's future and today what they started is still going strong. Cranford Radio met with four members of the organization, Gail Alterman, Vic Bary, Christine Glazer and Patricia Pavlak to learn a bit about the history of an organization that's all about history.
Summer will be here soon and parents and kids are already planning what they'll be doing during those lazy, crazy days. One option is being part of a play. On Stage Theater Camp gives kids the chance to learn what goes into putting on a production. Mike and Patty Altmann, both veteran teachers, are the owners, and in this Cranford Area Chamber of Commerce member profile they tell us a bit about what they offer.
There's no shortage of musical talent coming out of Cranford High School. That's not only true of graduates but of current students, as well. Madison Panno is a junior at CHS and this weekend she released her first album, Music Speaks. Cranford Radio sat down with Madison just a couple of days before the album came out to talk about the album and about being a musician.
What do you do if your job keeps you out of the house for eight hours of the day, or more, and you have a dog that needs some exercise and a potty break while you're gone? If you live in the Cranford area, We Leash the Hounds is here to help. The business is owned by Morgan Jenkins and Ryan Yorke. In this Cranford Area Chamber of Commerce member profile we sat down at the Downtown Family Restaurant to talk about the business and their love of dogs.
If you had to pick two musical sounds that are more different, you'd have a hard time topping metal and opera. Cranford High School grad, Geddy Warner, is doing just that. In this Cranford Radio interview the NYU Steinhardt School junior talks about his upcoming opera performance in France and his local metal band, No Kings Among Wolves.
In less than 12 hours Cranford will be going from spring-like weather to a big winter storm. The National Weather Service is predicting six to ten inches of snow for the Cranford area. The Cranford Office of Emergency Management has put together these tips in advance of the storm.
If you've searched for information about the Township of Cranford then you've likely visited Cranford.com, the township's official website. The site has the usual information you'd expect, such as meeting agendas and contact information for municipal officials, but it also gives businesses in town an opportunity to promote their services. In this Cranford Area Chamber of Commerce member profile, Cranford Radio spoke with the site's owners, Bill and Gina Tipton, to learn more about this unique community resource.
Cranford Radio concludes it series introducing the four Union County constitutional officers by interviewing Sheriff Joe Cryan. You see sheriff's officers in the county courthouse when you serve jury duty, but in this interview you'll learn about their other responsibilities.
Come in from the cold and enjoy a British comedy by Noel Coward at the Cranford Dramatic Club. The show will be presented in mid-February. Bill Seesselberg is the director of the play and he talked with Cranford Radio about it.
A blog post on NJ Urban Thinker by new Cranford resident Gabe Bailer gained quite a bit of attention when it was published in December. Bailer, who lived all of his life in New York City and Hudson County before coming to Cranford last year, wrote about what attracted him to the town and how communities, such as Cranford, are not suburbs in the traditional sense but should be in a new category he called a midburb. Cranford Radio spoke with Bailer about his article and what he likes about Cranford.
With two busy rail lines, NJ Transit and Conrail, passing through Cranford, safety is an issue of concern to parents, law enforcement and others. Operation Lifesaver New Jersey provides education to any group requesting it. Tom Jedic serves on the executive board of the organization and also is a special agent for the Norfolk Southern Police. He talked with Cranford Radio's Bernie Wagenblast about the issue and what's being done.
Catherine Felegi was honored this evening by the Cranford Clergy Council and the Interfaith Human Relations Committee with the annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Award for Human and Civil Right. Catherine was recognized for her work organizing the Operation Warm Heart chapter at the First Presbyterian Church. Operation Warm Heart serves the homeless by providing a warm place to sleep as well as providing meals and other services.
Freeholder Bruce Bergen was elected by his fellow freeholders as their chairman for 2017 at the freeholders' reorganization meeting on January 8. At the same meeting Cranford resident Bette Jane Kowalski was sworn in to her new term as a freeholder. After his election, Cranford Radio spoke with Chairman Bergen to discuss the year ahead for the freeholders.
Tom Hannen was selected as Cranford's mayor at the annual township committee reorganization meeting Tuesday night. Hannen is joined on the committee by Patrick Giblin, who will serve as deputy mayor, as well as commissioners Andis Kalnins, Mary O'Connor and newly-elected commissioner Ann Dooley.
Mayor Hannen spoke with Cranford Radio's Bernie Wagenblast about his priorities for the coming year.
Why does it seem home disasters always seem to occur late at night, on weekends or holidays? While there's never a convenient time for a fire or water emergency, PuroClean Restoration Services of Cranford is there to help get your home back to normal. The business is owned by Chris and Robin Hoy and they spoke with Cranford Radio's Bernie Wagenblast about their company.
Perhaps one of Cranford's most notable landmarks is found at the intersection of Springfield and N. Union avenues. The First Presbyterian Church has occupied that plot of land since 1869, with the current building on the site since the mid-1890s. Rev. Chris Kile is the current pastor and he talks with Cranford Radio about the church, its people and its ministries.
Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest transactions you'll ever make. There are seemingly endless questions; how much to offer, how best to position the house for sale, what's the neighborhood like? Realtors, such as Barbara Zeckman of Coldwell Banker Westfield East, can help answer those questions and walk you through the process. In this Cranford Area Chamber of Commerce member profile we talk to Barbara about the Cranford real estate market and another project she's involved in, Cranford Entrepreneurs.
The Cranford Area Chamber of Commerce recognized a number of individuals, organizations and businesses Wednesday night with its "Pride in Cranford" Awards. Cranford Radio attended the event spoke with Barbara Bilger, the co-chair of the program and Todd Sweeney, one of the award recipients.
Three non-profit organizations are coming together on Saturday, October 15 to sponsor the Walk for Wellness and Recovery at Nomahegan Park. Cranford's Monarch Housing Associates, along with the Mental Health Association in New Jersey and National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence-New Jersey, will be sponsoring the walk and other events. Cranford Radio spoke with Richard Brown, the CEO of Monarch Housing and Laverne Williams of MHANJ to learn about the event and both organizations.
Not too many years ago things got quiet in downtown Cranford at night. That's certainly not the case these days. A big part of the change is due to the many restaurants that have opened in town. One of the newest is The Thirsty Turtle at the corner of South and S. Union avenues. We talked with Duane Hand, the manager of the restaurant, to learn a bit about it as well as to find out how he got involved in the business, in the latest Cranford Chamber of Commerce member profile.
One sign of fall is the start of a new theater season at the Cranford Dramatic Club. The first play on tap for the 2016-2017 season is Stephen Sondheim's musical, Assassins. Cranford Radio stopped by the Winans Avenue theatre to speak with the show's director, Alan Van Antwerp, as well as cast members Richard Colonna (The Proprietor), Zach Love (Leon Czolgosz) and Matt Burns (Samuel Byck).
You see them in their blue uniforms outside stores and on street corners at Christmastime. But what else do you know about The Salvation Army and their services? Major Ivan Rock is the New Jersey Divisional Commander for the organization and he spoke with Cranford Radio to tell us more about what they do.
For four decades Prevention Links has been working to help Cranford and other Union County residents find the resources to prevent issues related to drugs, alcohol and tobacco. As part of their educational efforts and to raise funds, the organization will be holding a Family Funday and Red Ribbon Drug Prevention Walk on Saturday, October 22 in Nomahegan Park. Cranford Radio spoke with Pam Capaci, the CEO of Prevention Links, as well as Kelley Ryan, the Director of Community Prevention and Liz Costantino, the Social Media and Development Coordinator at the organization's Roselle headquarters.
For the third consecutive year Schmitt's Quest for the Cure returns to Cranford. The event raises money to find a cure for diabetes. Gloriarose and Andrew Schmitt are the two founders of Schmitt's Quest for the Cure and they spoke with Cranford Radio to talk about the event and their personal experience with diabetes.
Despite all our wonderful technology, it seems everyone is busier today than ever. That's what makes what the volunteers at the Cranford First Aid Squad do, even more remarkable. Saving lives, helping the sick and injured is something the squad does 365 days a year. Cranford Radio spoke with three members of the organization, President Kruti Brahmbhatt, Treasurer Daniel Gomez and 2nd Lt. Kailyn Grant, to learn more about what the squad does and how Cranford citizens and business can help.
Thursday through Saturday Cranford plays host to the Zerbini Family Circus. There are two performances each day at 5:15 and 7:30 pm at Hillside Avenue School. The circus has been sponsored by the Cranford Chamber of Commerce for a number of years. Margaret Valencia is part of the circus and she spoke with Cranford Radio.
The Fourth of July usually means a full day of activities in Cranford and things kick off with the Cranford Jaycees Firecracker 4 Miler and Fun Run. Taking over the duties as race director for the Jaycees this year is Kevin Cumiskey. Cranford Radio spoke with Kevin about the race.
Former President Bill Clinton stopped in Cranford to campaign for his wife, Hillary Clinton, in advance of Tuesday's New Jersey primary. Derek Roseman serves as the communications director of Hillary for New Jersey and Cranford Radio spoke with him about the campaign.
The St. Michael School Drama Club will be presenting The Music Man at the school on May 25 and 26. Fourth through eighth grade students are in the play with other children working behind the scenes. Lorraine DeMan is the director of the play and she spoke with Cranford Radio's Bernie Wagenblast about the production.
The 2016 Tony Awards are in the news but it’s a 2006 multiple Tony Award winner that will be getting all the attention at the Cranford Dramatic Club this month. The Drowsy Chaperone will be presented May 6 through 15 at the theatre at 78 Winans Avenue in Cranford.
As they do their final rehearsals Cranford Radio spoke with the directors, Ken and Mary Webb, as well as three of the performers, E. Dale Smith-Gallo, Judi Laganga and Gene Lough. We began with Ken Webb giving an overview of the play.
Back in 1904, when Gustav and Henry Dreyer purchased their Cranford farmland, there were still quite a few farms around Union County. Today, Dreyer Farms is the last remaining farm in the county and a popular spot for not just vegetables, but a variety of foods, plants and more. One of the most popular programs at the farm is the CSA. Cranford Radio spoke with Dawn Salerno, who runs the CSA program and is involved with many aspects of the business.
Relay for Life Cranford is a fun way to raise money for a very worth cause, the American Cancer Society. This year's relay will take place on May 20 and 21 behind Orange Avenue School. Linda Miklencic is organizing the Cranford event, working with Daniel Stermer of the ACS and both spoke with Cranford Radio.
Usually albums are created after a play is written. In the case of American Idiot, the album preceded the play. Green Day's album was their seventh and tells a story through its songs. The album won a Grammy Award in 2005 and inspired a Broadway musical. The Cranford Dramatic Club is taking on the unusual production which is nearly 100% music.
As the cast and crew prepare for the musical's debut on February 12, Cranford Radio had the opportunity to speak with three of the leads, Ali Gleason (Whatsername), Bill Geltzeiler (Johnny) and Ben Simons (Will), as well as the director/choreographer Megan Ferentinos.
Each season the Cranford Dramatic Club puts on a children's show and this year's production is Rapunazrella White. Cranford Radio had the opportunity to speak with four of the participants, director Anita Esteve, Marlo Avidon (Snow White), Adena Weisholtz (Queen Rhoda) and Joel Redmont (Herschel, the Dwarf). We started off asking Anita to tell us a bit about the play.
An open house was held Monday evening in the Cranford Community Center, to get public input on the Union County Transportation Master Plan. Maps outlining transportation corridors throughout the county were displayed and citizens were invited to offer suggestions on how transportation could be improved. William Reyes, the Deputy County Manager and the Director of Economic Development for the county talked to Cranford Radio about the event.
One of the oldest community theaters in the state is back for a new season. First up, "Born Yesterday." More in this story on Cranford Radio.
Two Cranford High graduates, Andrew and Gloriarose Schmitt, are sponsoring a fundraiser in October. Cranford Radio spoke with Andrew Schmitt to learn a bit more about the event and why it's so important to him.
In recent years the new housing stock in Cranford has transitioned from mostly single-family homes to multi-unit buildings. The latest to open is Woodmont Station at Cranford. Steve Santola is the Executive Vice President and General Counsel for Woodmont Properties, which owns the complex. Cranford Radio spoke with him and asked him to give us some background on the project.
Danila and Nuria Kartashov have opened the Arthur Murray Dance Center in Downtown Cranford at 200 South Avenue, East. The studio is located on the second floor of Riverfront at Cranford Station, just above Pastosa. Cranford Radio paid a visit and spoke with Danila to learn a bit more about the center and about he and his wife.
Every year Nomahegan Park plays host to Cranstock, an unofficial reunion of sorts for people who once attended Cranford High School. Cranford Radio spoke with two of the organizers, Bob O'Donnell and Chris Turner, and I asked Bob what Cranstock is.
Dan Czeh has only served as the Cranford Fire Department chief since the end of April. In an effort to introduce Cranford to the new head of its fire department, Cranford Radio spoke with the chief in his office in fire headquarters.
On June 5 Calvary Tabernacle in Cranford will host 'A Night of Hope' with Mike Palombi as the keynote speaker. The free event will offer outreach to to those suffering from any type of life-controlling substances and/or circumstances.
Mike's story is more than just the usual ups and downs of life and includes time spent in prison. He'll share his story and more but Cranford Radio had an opportunity to get a preview and we started off by talking about Mike's early years growing up in New Brunswick.
The CDC's season is coming to an close with the musical "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying." Cranford Radio talked with both the director, Jeffrey Fiorello and the two leads, Emily Greenberg and Shane Long, to learn a bit more about the production.
From Beijing, China to La Paz, Bolivia, Rotary has clubs throughout the world. While they've been in Cranford for over nine decades, some people aren't aware of the club and the good works with which they're involved. Cranford Radio spoke with two members, Rich Feder and Joe Carney, to learn more about the organization.
You won't hear too many positive comments about the snow and cold we've experienced this winter, but one bright spot are the snow sculptures that are created in front of 512 Springfield Avenue.
The Cranford Chamber of Commerce has some changes planned for the year ahead. The president of the chamber, Kurt Petschow, Jr., and the interim executive director, Dottie Baniewicz told Cranford Radio's Bernie Wagenblast some of what's new.
While Cranford's elected officials set policy and direction for the municipality, the township administrator is charged with carrying that out. Since November 2013 Terence Wall has served in that position. Cranford Radio spoke with Wall to learn a little more about the man and his role in the township government.
The annual township committee reorganization meeting was held January 1. A number of appointments were made and among the most significant were the unanimous selection of Andis Kalnins to serve a second consecutive term as mayor and Lisa Adubato to continue as deputy mayor. After the meeting ended, I spoke with Mayor Kalnins about the year just past and the year ahead.
TAP into Cranford made its debut this fall and the neighborhood news site is already busy covering the town and presenting information in a new way. Jennifer LoBianco talked to Cranford Radio about the service.
The holidays are a great time to see a play with the family and the Cranford Dramatic Club has just the ticket with their performance of Aladdin the first week of December.
For over 150 years Cranford United Methodist Church has been a part of the town. Many pastors have served the congregation over that time and the latest is Rev. Cameron Overbey.
Union County is just the second county in the US to offer an app that provides voter information. Union County Votes was introduced at Union County College's Cranford campus by County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi.
The Mayor's Wellness, Fitness and Fun Festival was the inaugural event for the Mayor's Wellness Campaign, held on Sunday at the Centennial Avenue Pool Complex and Memorial Field. Two of the leaders of the event, Jackie Carr and Mary O'Connor, told Cranford Radio a little more about what was happening.
Volunteers are spending their Saturday in front of the Cranford Municipal Building installing a rain garden. Nelson Dittmar, Jr., the chairman of the Cranford Environmental Commission, and Don Jones, an associate member, took some time out from their work to tell Cranford Radio a bit about the project.
It's become a Cranford fall tradition. The Feast of St. Michael is taking place at the school on the corner of Alden & Miln Streets. The festivities run through Sunday and Pete Coates is serving as the co-chair and he tells Cranford Radio what to look forward to.
The demon barber won't be found on Fleet Street this fall, but instead will be cutting hair, and other things, on Winans Avenue. Alan Van Antwerp is the director of the CDC production and he talked with Cranford Radio about the show.
The Union County Arts Center in Rahway opened as the Rahway Theatre in 1928. There on opening night was a Wurlitzer theatre organ. The organ has stayed with the theatre through the years and on Tuesday, September 23, the grand unveiling of the restored instrument took place. Listen to a little of the music from the organ as it accompanies a 1928 Felix the Cat cartoon, Woos Whoopee. The organist is Bernie Anderson, Jr.
For the eighth year in a row, the Centennial Village Music Fest was held at Lincoln School. As in past years a mix of musical genres were performed. The first act was Cranford's own, Splittree.
It's been four decades since over 500 seniors from the Cranford High School Class of 1974 received their diplomas on a hot June evening. For the first time in twenty years classmates will have a chance to reunite. The reunion will be held at The Gran Centurions in Clark the evening of November 29. Kathy Clark has been leading the effort to pull everything together and she talked about what will be happening.
The Cranford Dramatic Club will open its season with two benefit performances of The Normal Heart. The play is being directed by Alan Van Antwerp and Jeff Fiorello. Cranford Radio talked with the two co-directors about the play.
Don't be surprised if a few years from now you hear someone from Cranford announcing the next Triple Crown winner. John Piassek just graduated from Cranford High this year but he's already had the opportunity to guest call a race at Monmouth Park.
You don't find too many teenagers who have an interest in horse racing, to say nothing of having an interest in calling horse races. I asked John how that interest developed.
Joseph Kopser, the CEO and co-founder of RideScout, will be the keynote speaker at IBTTA's Summit on AET, Managed Lanes and Interoperability July 20-22 in San Diego. In the inaugural IBTTA Radio interview he introduces us to RideScout and how it relates to toll facilities.
Growing up in the 1960s and '70s you probably spent quite a bit of time listening to the radio. This was when FM radio started to become competitive with AM stations. This is a re-creation of what it might have sounded like if you scanned the FM dial in the New York City area starting at 88.3 and working your way up to 107.5.
A Toute Heure is celebrating its seventh anniversary this month. The restaurant is located at 232 Centennial Avenue in the Centennial Village shopping area. Opened for a much shorter time, just since December, is its sister restaurant 100 Steps Supper Club + Raw Bar across the street at 215 Centennial Avenue. Andrea Carbine owns both along with her husband, Jim, and she talked with Cranford Radio about the restaurants.
Temple Beth-El Mekor Chayim has been serving the Jewish community in and around Cranford since 1917. The synagogue is located at 338 Walnut Avenue and is led by Rabbi Ben Goldstein. Rabbi Goldstein is the latest guest on Cranford Radio’s series of interviews that are introducing you to members of the clergy in town and their houses of worship.
Time. We all have 24 hours a day to do what needs to be done. How is it that some people seem to be able to accomplish so much more in less time? Jane Hoffman, the owner of Jane of All Trades, helps small business owners make the most of those hours by increasing their efficiency and improving their time management. She shared some tips in an interview with Bernie Wagenblast.
One of the two newest members of the Cranford Township Committee, Robert D'Ambola took office on January 1 and is serving this year as the Commissioner of Public Works/Engineering. Continuing our series of "Meet Your Elected Officials," we spoke on Tuesday.
In addition to featuring interviews with the women and men who currently represent Cranford in elective office, Cranford Radio will also introduce you to candidates looking to represent our town in various positions. Our first such interview is with Janice Kovach, the Democratic candidate for New Jersey's 7th Congressional District, which includes Cranford. Kovach currently serves as the mayor of the Town of Clinton in Hunterdon County.
Hillside Avenue School will be the site of a very special program the evening of Wednesday, May 14. Shining Stars will raise money for The Arc of Union County. The co-directors of the program are Sally Curci and Beth Wolfe. They took time out during a rehearsal to talk about the variety show.
Rev. Tom Rice has served as the pastor of Cranford Alliance Church for the past three years. In the fourth part of our series introducing the members of Cranford's clergy, today we learn a bit about Pastor Tom's background and what's happening at Cranford Alliance.
No matter what your age, there are plenty of activities and recreational opportunities in Cranford. The Community Center, the two pool complexes and parks are just part of what's available. Steve Robertazzi is the Director of the Recreation & Parks Department and the Swim Pool Utility and he provided some insight into what Cranford residents can take advantage of.
The Connected Corridor seeks to to connect our transportation system not only physically, but virtually. Two individuals playing prominent roles in bringing together The Connected Corridor, Solomon Caviness of the NJTPA and Stephen Dilts of CH2M Hill, discussed the project with Bernie Wagenblast.
Next up in our series of "Meet Your Elected Officials" is Union County Surrogate James La Corte. The County Surrogate may be one of the lesser known elected offices, but the responsibilities of the office go back to colonial times.
A mystery that’s never really solved is one way to describe the upcoming drama being presented by the Cranford Dramatic Club. Here’s more in this report from the CDC playhouse on Winans Avenue.
Get your running shoes on. The fourth annual Centennial Village Velocity 5k Race will be held on June 1. Tom Ruby is the man in charge and he talked to Cranford Radio about the race.
In Union County there are three constitutional officers directly elected by the citizens, the Sheriff, the Surrogate and the County Clerk. Joanne Rajoppi has been the Union County Clerk since 1995. In Cranford Radio's continuing series of introductory interviews with elected officials, we met in her Elizabeth office.
Each year law enforcement officers from around the nation bike to Washington, DC in the Police Unity Tour. Lt. Guy Patterson and officers Derek Farbanec and Joseph Stulpin will represent the Cranford Police Department in this year's ride. Lt. Patterson spoke with Cranford Radio about the tour.
Financing is the lifeblood of most businesses. Borrowing money to start or grow a business can be difficult. Patrick McMullan started ALCS Capital in February to help businesses find affordable sources of money. We spoke in his offices at 4 Centennial Avenue in Cranford.
It's time for another in our series of profiles of the elected officials who represent Cranford. Today it's Deputy Mayor, and Commissioner of Finance, Lisa Adubato.
It doesn't have the ratings of CBS, the shows of HBO, or the non-stop coverage of CNN and Fox News, but Cranford's TV 35 has unique offerings geared to Cranford residents that those networks can't offer. Ed Davenport is the manager for TV 35 and has been part of the station from the start, including the station's most devastating day when Hurricane Irene flooded the studios.
Union County College has proposed building a soccer/lacrosse field and track on its Cranford campus. The plan has raised objections from neighbors to the college. In a two-part interview we hear from a representative of the college and a member of Cranford's Environmental Commission. In this part, Dr. Stephen Nacco, Vice President Administrative Service and Executive Assistant to the President, presents the college's views.
Union County College has proposed building a soccer/lacrosse field and track on its Cranford campus. The plan has raised objections from neighbors to the college. In a two-part interview we hear from a representative of the college and a member of Cranford's Environmental Commission. In this part, Steve Jandoli presents views against the proposal.
Bruce Bergen has started his second year as a freeholder. Continuing our "Meet Your Elected Officials" series we sat down with the freeholder in his Cranford law offices and asked him about his background.
No, I'm not talking the season just passed, but a man by the name of Winter who is on a quest to visit every company-owned Starbucks in the world. The most recent store added to his list was the new Starbucks in Downtown Cranford. We chatted by phone to talk about his mission and his impression of the Cranford store.
One sure sign of spring is the annual Cranford Jaycees Easter Egg Hunt. This year's event will be held on Saturday, April 12 in the field behind Orange Avenue School. All that egg hunting is sure to build-up an appetite, but don't worry, the Jaycees have you covered with their Pancake Breakfast the following day at the Cranford VFW Hall. Best of all, two great Cranford organizations benefit; Cranford Family Care and the Cranford First Aid Squad. Let's learn more from Trevor Deal and Peter Turnamian.
Hitting the five decade mark is an accomplishment in any business and Northeast Planning Corporation, located at 1150 Raritan Road is one of the fortunate ones to mark that milestone. Steven Ferrara is the CEO and son of the founder. He sat down with Cranford Radio to talk about the firm.
Maxine Feinberg, DDS is the President-Elect of the American Dental Association. She'll assume the presidency in October. Dr. Feinberg's periodontics practice is located at 300 North Avenue East and she talked to Cranford Radio about her new responsibilities as well as how she became a dentist.
On Monday, the US Army Corps of Engineers provided an update on their Rahway River Basin Flood Risk Management Feasibility Study. The presentation provided preliminary benefit-cost benefit numbers of ten alternatives. Chris Gardner, a spokesman for the New York District of the Army Corps, spoke by phone with Cranford Radio to talk about what was presented and next steps.
One result of longer lives is the increased possibility that our loved ones will need help with the daily activities of living. Cranford's HR Home Care provides services designed to allow allow people to stay in their homes and to remain independent. GladysMarie Harris is the administrator for HR Home Care and she told us more about their services and her background.
Cranford is represented in the New Jersey Senate by Tom Kean, Jr. As part of our "Meet Your Elected Officials" series, Cranford Radio spoke with the senator at his Westfield legislative office.
As we continue our series of profiles of Cranford clergy, we visit with Rev. Alfred E. Brown, Jr., pastor of the First Baptist Church at 100 High Street. Both the church and Reverend Brown have a long history in Cranford, as he shares with us in this interview.
One thing almost everyone agrees on is that flooding of the Rahway River is a major problem. The US Army Corps of Engineers will be presenting the results of their economic study of flood mitigation measures on Monday, March 31. One of the alternatives being considered is a dam in the South Mountain Reservation that would contain water along the West Branch of the Rahway River. Save Our Reservation opposes the dam and I spoke with a leader of the group, Fred Profeta, to learn more.
It's been a little over a month since Bento Express opened its doors at 41 North Ave. East. Richard Lo is the owner and shortly before the official ribbon-cutting he talked about his new restaurant.
They had their start on Mulberry Street in Newark in the 1920's. Today, the former Newark Nut Company is Nuts.com and located in Cranford. Don Smith spoke with Sandy Braverman, a son of the founder, to learn more about this unique Cranford business.
One of the goals of Cranford Radio is to introduce you to and let you hear directly from the elected officials who serve Cranford. Rep. Leonard Lance serves the 7th Congressional District, which includes Cranford. Cranford Radio had the opportunity to speak with the congressman in his Westfield district office Tuesday.
One of the newer businesses in downtown Cranford is Furever Friends, a dog grooming service at 25 North Avenue West. The shop is owned by Walter Acuna and his wife, Jennifer Acuna-Alfaro. Jennifer was in the midst of grooming a dog when we chatted about the business.
Starting and running a small business is a challenge, fortunately there are places businesspeople can turn to for information, financing and more. The UCEDC is a Cranford-based non-profit economic development corporation that's been helping small businesses since 1977. Cranford Radio spoke with Ellen McHenry and Erich Peter of the UCEDC to learn more about the organization and what it offers.
Cranford parents looking for after-school programs for their children have a new option. The Westfield Area Y is now providing two new services at the Garwood Family Center Y at 500 East Street with busing from the Walnut Avenue, Livingston Avenue, Hillside Avenue and Brookside Place schools. Shannon McGillis is the director of the Garwood facility and she told Cranford Radio about the new services.
The days of a simple benefits package are long gone and the biggest change in recent memory is the start of the Affordable Care Act. Cranford resident Jo Ann Boyle has been answering questions from small employers about what the act means to them and their employees and she sat down with Cranford Radio at the Rustic Mill Diner to talk about some of the issues they're facing.
In the second part of our series profiling the clergy from Cranford’s house of worship we visit with Clem Salerno, the senior pastor of Calvary Tabernacle located at 69 Myrtle Street.
It was an historic moment for Cranford and towns all along NJ Transit's Raritan Valley Line on Monday as direct on-seat service began to New York City.
A stroll around town gives you an idea of the wealth of beautiful homes and architecture we have in Cranford. To help maintain all we have and to develop a deeper appreciation for that history, the Cranford Historic Preservation Advisory Board was created. Two of the members are Maureen Strazdon and Vic Bary and they provided some background on the board and reviewed some of the highlights of the past year.
Dr. Gayle Carrick is coming up on her sixth anniversary as superintendent of the Cranford Public Schools. Much has happened during those years including adoption of Common Core Standards. Dr. Carrick sat down this morning in her Lincoln School office to talk to Cranford Radio and tell us a little about her background and some of the highlights and challenges faced by Cranford's public schools.
Joe Litterio grew up in Cranford and played for the Cougars before graduating in 1989. Just a few days ago, Litterio was named the new head coach for the Scarlet Knights baseball team, only the third coach since 1961. Cranford Radio traveled to the Rutgers Athletic Center in Piscataway to talk with Coach Litterio about his Cranford years and what lies ahead for Rutgers this season.
The new year saw the installation of new leadership for the Cranford Chamber of Commerce. Kurt Petschow, Jr. is the organization's president. The Chamber is involved with a number of activities in town, including three street fairs, the annual visit of the Zerbini Family Circus and numerous networking events. Cranford Radio sat down with Kurt at Southside Roast to talk about what's planned in the year ahead and to learn a little more his background.
Cranford is represented in the New Jersey State Assembly by two legislators, Jon Bramnick and Nancy Muñoz. Assemblywoman Muñoz has represented the district since May 2009, assuming the seat held by her late husband, Dr. Eric Muñoz. Cranford Radio had an opportunity to sit down with the Assemblywoman in her Summit district office and asked her to tell our listeners a little about herself.
It seems almost everyone in Cranford is familiar with The Kilkenny House but do you know the backstory; how it's owner, Barry O'Donovan came to the US and eventually to Cranford? Barry fills us in and tells us more in a behind-the-scenes look at Cranford's unique Irish pub and restaurant.
It's long been a dream for Cranford rail passengers to have a one-seat ride to New York City and that wish becomes reality on Monday, March 3 when NJ Transit begins weekday off-peak direct service on the Raritan Valley Line. Peter Palmer is a Somerset County Freeholder and Chairman of the Raritan Valley Rail Coalition. During a meeting in Westfield Tuesday morning he outlined what will happen and the steps that are hoped to follow.
Donna Del Guercio has owned Belladonna's Yarn Room for a little over a year now. The homey shop at 106 N. Union Avenue provides personalized service and expertise you won't find at the highway craft stores. Donna began our conversation by telling me a little about her background.
If you're a parent with a student in the Cranford Public Schools, you're probably familiar with those automated calls announcing closings and delayed openings. What if we used the system for mundane tasks, or even to help a student study? Here's how it might sound.
Project Graduation gives graduating seniors at Cranford High School a safe place to celebrate after they receive their diplomas. One of the fundraisers to support this event will be held Friday, February 7. Julie Castillo, a parent of a CHS senior, is one of the organizers and she spoke with Cranford Radio about the party.
January is a month of resolutions, and no resolution is probably made more often than promising to get in-shape. To help you keep that promise The MAX Challenge opened on this month. Cranford Radio spoke with the franchise owner, Mike Wells about the business.
One of Cranford's musical gems is Brennan Sweet. Brennan has been the Associate Concertmaster for the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra since 1994. Listen as we hear a sample of his music and learn about his life as a musician.
One of Cranford's newest businesses is Experts of H.O.M.E. Mitch Harris is the owner and he sat down with Cranford Radio to talk about the business. We also spent some time going through a couple of common home maintenance items.
While it's won eight Tony awards, many theatergoers might not be familiar with Spring Awakening. It's the latest offering from the Cranford Dramatic Club and will debut on Valentine's Day, February 14. The director, Jeffrey Fiorello and music director, Jack Bender talk with Cranford Radio about the play.
Cranford, and other towns along the Rahway River, are awaiting word from the US Army Corps of Engineers on their preferred alternative for mitigating flooding. Former Cranford Mayor, Dan Aschenbach, who serves as coordinator for the mayors group, and Leo Coakley, a water resources engineer with Hatch Mott MacDonald, talked about the council and mitigation steps being considered.
Father Tim has served as the pastor of St. Michael Church for the past three years. In this profile he tells us a little about himself and what's happening in his parish.
In the third, and final, part of my interview with WCBS Newsradio 880 helicopter traffic reporter Tom Kaminski, we talk about some of his most memorable moments in the air, including the morning of September 11, 2001. Tom also discusses what it's like flying over Cranford and offers a few tips for driving in this area.
In the second part of a three-part series, Tom Kaminski talks about a typical day flying over the NYC area and how helicopter traffic reporting has changed over the years.
A cross-section of Cranford came together to remember the work of The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
No matter where you work, you probably don’t enjoy the view Cranford resident Tom Kaminski has from his “desk.” Tom is the veteran helicopter traffic reporter for WCBS Newsradio 880 and he gets to see Cranford, and the entire tri-state region, from a vantage point few can appreciate. Cranford Radio had a chance to sit down with Tom at the studios of WMSC at Montclair State University to talk about his career as a traffic reporter.
Look in your mailbox for Cranford's newest media, Cranford Monthly. The newspaper, published by Renna Media, published its premier issue this month and Joe Renna talked to Cranford Radio about the publication.
Janice Grevious will be honored with the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. Award at a community service on January 15 at St. Michael's Church. Janice was the organizer of the first Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. She talks about this year's Day of Service and about being recognized by the Cranford Clergy Council.
With so much happening in and around Cranford it can be tough to stay on top of all that's going on. As thousands have discovered, 365 Things To Do in Cranford & Westfield, is a great resource that can keep you informed.
A look at what’s free and happening in Cranford during the upcoming week. Check the links below for additional details.Music by Dan-O at DanoSongs.com.
The new chairman of the Union County Freeholders, Christopher Hudak, talks about some the board's priorities in 2014.
Cranford's Joe and Tina Renna have published "The Peterstown Book." Joe Renna talks about the book and growing up the Peterstown section of Elizabeth.
The Cranford Township Committee held their organizational meeting on January 1. Andis Kalnins was elected chairman of the committee and will serve as mayor. He discusses the year ahead with Cranford Radio.