SPONSORS AND SUPPORTERS
The businesses and families that dedicate their time and money to the work of Downtown Cranford are a special kind of hometown hero. They understand that thriving towns don’t just happen, they’re painstakingly built by citizens who stand up and say, “How can I help”? We extend our sincere thanks to these businesses and families for giving back to the place they call home!
2026 Visionary - $5000
Brighton Air Corp provides HVAC services for residents and businesses in the area and is known for its high quality service, reliability, and professionalism. In addition, owner Daniel Ghanime always looks for ways to give back to the community and sponsors numerous community events and organizations throughout the year.
Garlic Rose Bistro, a casual bistro restaurant that offers a unique, garlic-focused menu, has been in Downtown Cranford since 2002. Owner Marc Corello is always looking for ways to support the town, whether it’s sponsoring local organizations, events, or teams. Garlic Rose Bistro is often recognized as one of the best restaurants in Union County.
Sheet Metal Workers Local 22 trains and provides skilled people who fabricate and install work in various markets in the industry from residential, light commercial, commercial, and industrial sites. Its members and contractors work on new construction projects, renovations, and maintenance job sites. Local 22 strongly believes in charitable activities and members are often engaging with the community by donating skills, volunteering at events, participating in fundraisers, and more.
A Cranford institution for over 75 years, Martin Jewelers is a trusted jewelry store whose employees take care to educate and inform. In 1992, Martin Jewelers donated the clock that stands at the center of Eastman, which is just one of the many ways that the business gives back to the town.
Neim Dani opened his office in Downtown Cranford in January 2026. He’s proud to serve individuals, families, and local businesses throughout Cranford and the surrounding communities.
Whether it’s auto, home, life, or business insurance, his goal is to be a reliable resource customers can count on now and for years to come.
2026 Trail Blazer - $2500
Hot Yoga Revolution offers classes that are designed to help students get stronger both physically and mentally. Teachers have their own style of flow and fun music that challenges students while also leaving them feeling empowered and rejuvenated.
julie murphy
Julie Murphy grew up in Cranford and has lived here with her husband Jim for 34 years. She has been a licensed NJ realtor since 1989 and Cranford has always been her focus. Julie is committed to being involved and supportive of Cranford because she loves seeing the outstanding progress that has been made since her family moved here in the early 1970’s.
Pastosa Ravioli is a family-owned, third-generation Italian specialty food company recognized as the source for New York’s finest fresh-made ravioli, pasta and Italian specialties. Join them in tasting a time-honored tradition since their grandfather Anthony G. Ajello opened the first Pastosa Ravioli store in Brooklyn’s Bensonhurst neighborhood in 1966.
sharon steele
Sharon Steele Real Estate – Coldwell Banker Realty is dedicated to helping people buy and sell homes while supporting local businesses and organizations. For over 15 years, Sharon has helped families find their dream homes in Cranford, Westfield, and beyond. She understands that selling a home is just as important as buying one, providing expert guidance to ensure a smooth and successful sale. As the founder of 365CranfordWestfieldNJ, she shines a spotlight on local businesses, events, and organizations, strengthening connections and fostering hometown pride. Her passion for real estate, deep local knowledge, and commitment to giving back make her a trusted resource for both buyers and sellers alike.
2026 Innovator - $1500
Shannon DellaFortuna Homes
Shannon is one of the most sought after realtors in Union County for buyers and sellers alike. As a Top Producing Agent and lifelong resident, Shannon is truly a neighborhood specialist. Her vast knowledge of the local market, home staging expertise and attention to detail make her a tremendous asset for home sellers. As a buyer’s agent and first time home buyer specialist, Shannon works tirelessly with her clients from mortgage pre-approval through closing providing support and guidance throughout the entire process.
sub-ology
Paolo Fontana took over as the owner of Sub-Ology in 2016 and has since grown the business into a highly successful sandwich and salad shop. In addition to offering delicious and high quality sandwiches, subs, wraps, and salads, Sub-Ology also has an entire section of its menu dedicated to gluten-free options.
2026 Creator - $750
Thanks to the leadership of owner Tammie Ramos-Crispino, Fire Me Up! Studio has grown in leaps and bounds since it first opened its doors. Fire Me Up Studio is an art studio for artists of all ages and skill levels. It’s a place for birthday parties, pottery classes, family outings, and so much more.
When Toast first opened the doors of its Montclair, NJ location in May of 2007, the mantra was simple: “Peace, Love & Pancakes.” While Toast has since expanded — opening locations in Downtown Asbury Park, Red Bank, Cranford and Manalapan — the restaurant’s foundation remains the same. Toast’s mantra isn’t just a cute catch phrase that looks good on t-shirts. Those three words are the (not-so-secret) ingredients that make every dining experience at Toast stand out.
2026 Groundbreaker - $500
Mario Haddad has owned Cranford Golden Touch Jewelers since 1984. If you’re looking to give someone a beautiful and thoughtful gift this year, look no further than Cranford Golden Touch Jewelers. Mario is knowledgeable about jewelry of all kinds, and can always be counted on to provide first rate customer service.
JBD Builders LLC is a full service general contractor, owned and operated by Joshua Brennan Diesner. They are based in Cranford, NJ, but will go anywhere their work brings us. With 15 years of construction experience, they blend commercial expertise, high quality craftsmanship, and the respect you should expect from a guest in your home.
At Jeff’s Landscape Design & Construction they specialize in creating, building, and maintaining stunning landscapes for both residential and commercial properties in The Garden State. With their knowledge, passion and experienced team, they ensure that outdoor spaces are not only beautiful but also functional and healthy for long-lasting enjoyment.
At Cranford Vanilla Bean Creamery, ice cream isn’t just a treat, it’s a tradition. Every scoop they serve is made fresh in-house using only the highest-quality ingredients, with over 32 flavors rotating regularly to keep things exciting. They love getting creative in the kitchen and dreaming up new combinations to make sure there’s always something fresh and fun to discover on each visit.