UNIONLEADER
‘Purlie’ wins four awards
See Page 2
Church hosts fall market
Vietnam Veterans Panel gives insight into serving during war
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
In honor of Veterans Day, the Union Public Library’s Vauxhall Branch hosted a Vietnam Veterans Panel on Saturday, Nov. 8. Four veterans – Michael Jones, Edward Batten, Fred Mulligan and Robert Johnsen – shared their stories and reflections in honor of their services.
Gabriel Ramos, Vauxhall Library Branch manager, introduced the program and the library’s new BrainFuse VetNow program, designed to help veterans access Veterans Affairs services and learn more about their benefits.
Mayor James Bowser said, “It’s an honor. Together, we can share our gratitude as stories are passed down from generations.”
Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados thanked the veterans for their service.
Sen. Joe Cryan said, “Isn’t it an honor to be in the company of local heroes? They fought at a time when they weren’t welcomed home properly. Never forget.”
Ramos began the panel by asking the veterans about basic training.
Batten said, “I loved it. I loved serving in the Air Force and camaraderie with brothers in service.”
Jones said, “Discipline was very strict. After basic training, it was a breeze.”
Mulligan thought basic training was a piece of cake because he trained hard in summer camp and was used to it. He said, “Those who had no discipline were crying, ‘I want to commit suicide.’ For me, it was like going to camp. I enjoyed it.”
A library patron asked the veterans about the draft.
Jones said, “For me, it was a responsibility. I wasn’t going to tell anybody I wasn’t going. At 17, I just finished high school. I hadn’t had a job yet. Being drafted made my decision real easy. Options available didn’t do me any good. I wasn’t leaving home, going to Canada. I wasn’t doing anything illegal.”
Johnsen said, “It was a completely different time. We wanted to serve our country. That was the patriotic thing to do.”
comprising the Vietnam Veteran’s Panel, which was hosted at the Union Public Library’s Vauxhall Branch on Saturday, Nov. 8, are, from left, Vietnam veterans Michael Jones, Edward Batten, Fred Mulligan and Robert Johnson. Upper left, Gabriel Ramos, Vauxhall Library branch manager, introduced the program and the library’s new BrainFuse VetNow program, designed to help veterans access Veterans Affairs services and learn more about their benefits. Lower left, Mayor James Bowser speaks at the Vietnam Veterans Panel. ‘It’s an honor,’ he said. ‘Together, we can share our gratitude as stories are passed down from generations.’ Below, Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados thanked the veterans for their service.
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Above,
American Theater Group’s ‘Purlie’ wins 4 Audelco Awards including ‘Best Revival of a Musical’
American Theater Group’s criticallyacclaimed production of Purlie was honored at the 53rd annual Audelco Awards Recognizing Excellence in Black Theatre with four awards including “Best Revival of a Musical.”
Produced in partnership with UCPAC’s Hamilton Stage, the March 2025 production of “Purlie” was directed by Kenny Ingram’ who was awarded “Best Director of a Musical.” The veteran director/choreographer was previously nominated for a 2023 Audelco Award for his direction of James T. Lane’s Triple Threat Off Broadway at Theatre Row.
Gary Mitchell Jr. was awarded “Outstanding Musical Director.” He regularly collaborates with renowned singers, instrumentalists, artists and ensembles throughout the world. Nicole Powell, whose Broadway credits include “Ragtime” and “Hairspray,” was named “Best Featured Actress in a Musical” for her portrayal of Missy.
Overall, the production received eight nominations in seven categories. Timothy Ware-Hill, Broadway’s “Kinky Boots,” was nominated for his portrayal of Purlie Victorious in the category of “Lead Actor in a Musical.” Tyson Jennette, Broadway’s “Book of Mormon” was nominated for
“Best Featured Actor in a Musical” as Gitlow. Virginia Woodruff, Broadway’s “Violet and Leap of Faith,” was nominated for “Best Featured Actress in a Musical” for her portrayal of Idella, while Kenny Ingram received an additional nomination for “Best Choreographer.”
“Purlie” is the 1970 musical adaptation of Ossie Davis’s comedic play “Purlie Victorious.” Featuring an unforgettable score, it tells the story of a traveling preacher who returns to his hometown in Georgia and concocts a scheme to reclaim his church while ringing the bell of freedom for plantation workers. Nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Direction and Best Choreography, the original Broadway production launched the careers of Melba Moore, Cleavon Little and Sherman Hemsley. “Purlie” was written by Ossie Davis, Philip Rose and Peter Udell, with music by Gary Geld.
“Producing ‘Purlie’ was the realization of a dream project of mine and this Audelco recognition is enormously gratifying,” noted ATG Producing Artistic Director Jim Vagias. “To be competing in such heady company with top theaters, including the Public Theater and Lincoln Center Theater, makes our success even sweeter.”
Photo Courtesy of Lianne Schoenwiesner, Spotlights Photography American Theater Group’s production of ‘Purlie’ recently won four Audelco Awards.
Church hosts its Craft and Vendor Fall Market
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
Connecticut Farms Presbyterian Church recently hosted its Craft and Vendor Fall Market. A variety of vendors came from throughout New Jersey and included food and treats – cheesecake, mini cakes, coffee; jewelry and accessories – resin, beaded, sea glass and bows; home, décor and lifestyle – gift baskets, pottery, candles, terrariums, wooden flags and plants; fashion beauty and wellness –boho chic fashion, natural nail oils, clothing and massage; and community and services.
The Rev. Christian “Chris” Iosso said he enjoys this yearly event for the sense of community. He said, “We’re making great connections. I enjoy talking with the vendors and other people who come. Once you come to these, you end up in conversation for hours.”
Mario’s Tutto Bene on Chestnut Street donated food for the event.
Michelle Bautista, of Union, has an online store called Party Penguin. For the past six years, she’s been selling handcrafted theme décor. “All themes and all celebrations,” she said. Her most popular item is customer cake toppers.
Joseph Linqui, a marketing rep for Renewal by Andersen, was promoting the energy certified window business.
Giulio Gambuto, of Woodbridge, has
Above left, Bridgette Fondo Davies, church member, stands with the Rev. Christian ‘Chris’ Iosso and Manny Salas, another church member, at Connecticut Farms Presbyterian Church’s Craft and Vendor Fall Market 2025. Iosso said, ‘We’re making great connections. I enjoy talking with the vendors and other people who come. Once you come to these, you end up in conversation for hours.’ Above center, Michelle Bautista, of Party Penguin, has been selling handcrafted theme décor for the past six years. ‘All themes and all celebrations,’ she said. Her most popular item is customer cake toppers. Above right, Joseph Linqui, a marketing rep for Renewal by Andersen, was promoting the energy certified window business.
had his business, Giulio’s Flag Designs, for the past three years.
He works from home making wooden American Flags designs. He said, “I’m
but
retired and had nothing to do.”
Pauli Verridicci, of Springfield, has a storefront in Flemington, where she’s been selling a variety of items, including
jewelry and Halloween pillows, for years. Her daughter, Sarah Martino-Verridicci, crochets items for the store while studying
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Riding For Warriors 11th annual motorcycle ride raises $53,000
The 11th annual Riding For Warriors wrapped its motorcycle journey raising $53,000 for Hope For The Warriors. For the 11th year, the ride was led by Air Force veteran and Hillsborough-based Michael Nehlsen and joining this year was Wayne Kohlbrecher. The event was sponsored by Union-based Hillmann Consulting.
Hope For The Warriors is a national nonprofit dedicated to restoring a foundation of stability, strength and community for post-9/11 veterans, service members and military families.
The ride began Friday, Aug. 1, and traveled through the original 13 colonies – New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, North and South Carolina and Georgia.
Since 2006, Hope For The Warriors has awarded Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarships twice a year. The program recognizes and rewards post-9/11 spouses and caregivers for their strength, fidelity and resolve despite adversity as they assume critical roles in the financial well-being of their families.
provide crucial support. Our goal with this annual ride is to fund scholarships to enhance their support roles, acknowledging the profound impact of their loved ones’ service on their families.”
Additional funds will also be donated to the overall Hope For The Warriors Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarship Program fund and allocated to those pursuing Restoring Self Scholarships –bachelor’s degrees – and New Beginnings Scholarships – certificates and associate’s degrees.
“Nothing slows down Michael when it comes to his passion in supporting military spouses and caregivers,” said Robin Kelleher, co-founder and CEO of Hope For The Warriors. “Each year, he looks forward to this ride to share HOPE’s mission and raise funds, on a unique and meaningful course he charts. He perseveres through many obstacles along the way, even through unpredictable summer storms, and we’re honored he continues to work side-by-side with HOPE to support military spouses and caregivers.”
Proceeds from the ride are benefiting The Riding For Warriors Scholarship Fund, sponsored by Hillmann Consulting and Michael Nehlsen, funding four military spouse and caregiver scholarships through Hope For The Warriors, for multiple semesters. The goal of the scholarship fund is to award recipients for multiple semesters, allowing them to achieve their educational goals without interruption.
“Riding For Warriors is synonymous with lifting up deserving warriors, ensuring no one is left behind, inspired by the
‘No Man Left Behind’ sculpture by artist John Phelps,” said Nehlsen. “Our post 9/11 service members, veterans and military families have made immense sacrifices deserving of repayment. Often returning with wounds from service, their spouses and caregivers bravely step up to
In 11 years, Nehlsen has traveled more than 41,000 miles on his motorcycle, raising nearly $650,000 for Hope For The Warriors’ programs.
For additional information on Riding For Warriors or to make a donation, visit https://support.hopeforthewarriors. org/event/11th-annual-riding-for-warriors/e657014.
Photo Courtesy of Erin McCloskey
From left are U.S. Airforce veteran Michael Nehlsen and Wayne Kohlbrecher at the Old State House in Hartford, Connecticut, on the 11th annual Riding For Warriors.
Monday: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm
Tuesday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Wednesday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Thursday: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sunday: Closed
Doctoral student helps student–veterans connect
For many veterans returning to college, the hardest battle isn’t in the classroom; it’s finding connection.
That’s the challenge Kean University doctoral student Christine Laskowski set out to ease. As part of her residency for her occupational therapy program, Laskowski created Battlefield to Playing Field, a pilot program designed to help student–veterans and their families transition from military to civilian life by building community.
“Whenever you serve in the military, you develop a camaraderie with people around you, and when you transition out, that becomes lost or at least difficult to find,” said Army veteran Timothy Cummings, a management student from Bayonne who participated in the program. “This program gave me an opportunity to connect more with people I’ve been around for the last few years but had only maintained a surface-level relationship with. Having the specific time set aside to focus on team building was very nice.”
— Associate professor Victor Michael Camacho
Developed in partnership with Kean’s Center for Veteran Student Success, the program uses social and leisure participation as therapeutic tools. Veterans gather for activities, including exercise, pumpkin painting, hiking and movie nights, designed to rebuild the connections many miss after leaving service.
Laskowski’s work is deeply personal. Her father, Stanley, served in the U.S. Navy, responding to ambulance calls, then became a nurse to continue helping
others. Years later, when her godfather suffered a stroke, an occupational therapist’s compassion left a lasting impression.
“I knew then I wanted to do this,” said Laskowski, a resident of Metuchen. “To be that person who helps someone get back to the way they were.”
Laskowski developed Battlefield to Playing Field using evidence-based strategies informed by a comprehensive literature review, a needs assessment and an environmental scan of Kean.
Associate professor Victor Michael Camacho, who serves as Laskowski's faculty expertise mentor and co-instructed her Doctoral Residency III course, said the program reflects the core values of the profession.
“Battlefield to Playing Field embodies the principle of occupational justice, the belief that every individual has the right to engage in meaningful and purposeful occupations that enhance health, wellbeing and social participation,” Camacho said.
At the end of the pilot, Laskowski used the Military to Civilian Questionnaire to measure outcomes. The results were promising.
“In a short amount of time, participants had already reported a higher sense of belonging and inclusion with both civilian and veteran friends, as well as their family members,” she said.
Onelvi Martinez, a Marine Corps veteran from Linden studying history educa-
Battlefield to Playing Field, created by Kean University doctoral student Christine Laskowski, uses occupational therapy principles to help student–veterans reintegrate into civilian and campus life.
tion, said the program’s impact was immediate.
“It’s been more helpful than therapy,” Martinez said. “Having fellow veterans around me has helped me express some things I’m feeling and given me a lot more camaraderie. Personally, I think this program is a huge necessity for veterans. It’s just an amazing thing to be part of.”
On track to graduate in December, Laskowski is working with Camacho, the Department of Occupational Therapy and Office of Veteran Student Services to ensure the program continues after she leaves.
“Sustaining this program ensures continued access to an inclusive, occupationcentered community that empowers student-veterans to achieve their personal and professional goals,” Camacho said.
Photo Courtesy of Christine Laskowski
December 1 thru 5
December 15 thru 19 KENILWORTH
KENILWORTH
December 8 thru 12
January 5 thru 9
KENILWORTH
orthern Italian Cuisine
Salad Salad
5 Hot 5 Hot Dishes Dishes
Salad Salad
Antipasto Antipasto
5 Hot Dishes 5 Hot Dishes
Baked Ziti ‚ Sausage & Peppers
Cavatelli & Broccoli ‚ Chicken
Eggplant Parmigiana ‚ Meatballs
Spare Ribs ‚ Pasta Primavera
Veterans Panel gives insight
(Continued from Page 1)
Another library patron wondered what was on their minds when they were ordered to Vietnam.
Jones said, “It’s a whole other world. It’s unexplainable.”
Batten said, “My own mom, she was proud of me, but she was concerned what may happen later on, that I may not return home. A number of my brothers and sisters – they did not come home. It was, and still is, an emotional experience.”
A library patron asked how their friends felt when they returned from Vietnam. Batten said he was angry. A psychiatrist told him he has post-traumatic stress disorder. While given tools to cope, you can’t cure PTSD.
“I don’t want to forget,” he said. “I was angry and sad. And I still do a lot of crying from time to time.”
When an attendee commented, “All heroes don’t wear capes,” Batten responded that he never thought of himself as being a hero.
Batten said, “I’m a survivor, continuing to learn to survive. We all are survivors. In the ditches and swamps. In the aircrafts that flew over. We were all survivors. Our families are the heroes. I will continue to encourage people to be kind and consider-
Sen. Joe Cryan said, ‘Isn’t it an honor to be in the company of local heroes? They fought at a time when they weren’t welcomed home properly. Never forget.’
ate to veterans and their family, not just on Veteran’s Day. I still have my dog tag. I was looking at it the other night.”
Ramos asked the veterans if they had any advice they could pass on.
Jones said, “Military has the greatest options going, if you’re looking for an education. Benefits are good. Pay is a lot better than it used to be.”
To learn more about Union Public Library and the Vauxhall Branch, visit: https://uplnj.org/.
IN MEMORIAM
• DEROSE – Geraldine Dorothy, of Hamilton Square, formerly of Elizabeth, Roselle Park, Hamilton and Union; Nov. 13. Widower, mother, grandmother, 96.
• JACKSON – Robert C., of Blairstown, formerly of Newark and Union; Nov. 11. U.S. Navy veteran, skilled printer. Widower, grandfather, great-grandfather, 86.
Individual Trays To Go
Individual Trays To Go
Half Tray 10-12 People
Lasagna
Bake Ziti
Penne Vodka
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Eggplant Parmigiana. $45.00
Chicken (Any Style).
Spare Ribs
Fried Calamari
Sausage & Peppers
Meatballs
Stuffed Shells
Cavatelli & Broccoli.
Seafood Salad
Veal (Any Style).
Eggplant Rollatini
Flounder Francese
Cold Cut(Antipasto).
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Tossed Green Salad. .$30.00
Full Tray
Lasagna
Bake Ziti
Penne Vodka
$80
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$75
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$80.00
Eggplant Parmigiana. $80.00
Chicken (Any Style).
Spare Ribs
Fried Calamari
Sausage & Peppers
Meatballs
Stuffed Shells
Cavatelli & Broccol
Seafood Salad
Veal (Any Sty
Eggplant Rollatini
Flounder Francese
Cold Cut (Antipasto).
Tossed Green Salad
$90.00
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• MOLLACH – Donald “Don” F., of Somerset and Barnegat, formerly of Union; Nov. 8. Army vet. Insurance broker. Husband, brother, father, grandfather, 88.
• VANDEVENTER – David Henry, formerly of Union, Newark; Nov. 5. Army veteran. Union police officer. Husband, father, grandfather, uncle, 88.
In Memoriam is a monthly feature compiled by the news staff from various sources. We also provide the opportunity for families and funeral directors to publish a more extensive, special notice about their loved one called an obituary. These notices are published on our website immediately and then in the next edition of this newspaper. To place a paid obituary send an email to obits@thelocalsource.com or fax to 908-688-0401. Family and friends’ submissions must include sender’s name, address, phone and the name of the funeral home. Call 908-686-7850 for assistance.
Joseph Farina
Photo by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Holiday Gift Guide 2025 Holiday Gift Guide 2025
How to use pineapple to elevate your holiday dishes
Does holiday cooking stress you out? If so, you’re not alone! According to PWC research, 54% of people admit to feeling uptight any time they think about prepping or cooking food for holiday celebrations. Fortunately, stress-free holiday dishes can be possible with the right ingredients.
Executive chef at Dole, James Bickmore-Hutt has ideas for how to elevate your holiday dishes in preparation for the festivities. “The holiday season is such a busy time of year. It’s also a moment when people are expecting to be ‘wowed’ at mealtime. Selecting high-quality ingredients like Dole® Tropical Gold® Canned Pineapples can reduce prep work and help you deliver crowdpleasing dishes quickly, so you can focus on enjoying the season with loved ones.”
Why are these pineapples Chef James’ best-kept secret? Dole Tropical Gold Canned Pineapples are handpicked at peak ripeness and are a naturally sweeter variety of pineapple. Offered in pre-cut chunks or slices with no sugar added, they help home chefs cut down on prep time without sacrificing freshly-packed flavor. Here are Chef James’ top tips for incorporating them into your seasonal fare:
• Add extra garnishes of pineapple to any holiday dish for a naturally sweet, tropical taste – no need to add extra sugar!
• Pineapples are very juicy, and you can pre-cook dessert filling on the stovetop to thicken the juices. Simply drain the liquid from the can, pour the fruit in a pan,
reduce remaining liquid and then combine it with a thickener of your choice before adding back in.
• Let fruit-filled desserts cool for at least two to four hours after baking to allow the filling to fully set.
• For added oomph and flavor in cocktail or mocktail batches, reserve pineapple juice from the same cans used in your food dishes, like a family-favorite pie.
This holiday season, Chef James’ guaranteed crowdpleaser, Caramelized Pineapple Baked Brie, adds a trop-
ical twist to a traditional spread. Ready in 40 minutes and with just six ingredients, this stress-free appetizer will make your festivities all the more memorable!
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 can (20 ounces) Dole Tropical Gold Pineapple Chunks in 100% Pineapple Juice, drained
• 1/4 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon honey, divided
• 1 package (13 ounces) round brie cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped roasted salted pistachios
Instructions:
Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add pineapple, rosemary and 1 tablespoon honey, stirring occasionally for 6 minutes or until the pineapple is golden brown.
Line a baking sheet or small baking dish with parchment. Cut the top rind off the brie and discard, placing the remaining portion on the parchment paper.
Spoon pineapple mixture over the brie. Bake at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and drizzle with the remaining 1 teaspoon of honey before garnishing with pistachios.
To stress less in the kitchen during this year’s holiday festivities, let pre-cut pineapple take center stage for easy preparation of elevated classics.
– StatePoint
Chef James’ Caramelized Pineapple Baked Brie
Connecticut Farms Church hosts its Craft and Vendor Fall Market
(Continued from Page 3)
for her master’s degree. Her biggest selling items are handcrafted witches and mushrooms.
Kyrie Katz, of Elmora, has an online store on Instagram called K. Style Collection LLC. She offers quality jewelry for a price point. She said, “Stainless steel, copper, brass; rings fit most sizes, something for every budget.”
Marian Balkum, of Irvington, started making baby blankets as a hobby and then one thing led to another, and she began her business, Baby Be Mine. She has a variety of colors and the blue/green combo is the bestseller.
Ashley Ann Thomas, of Essex County, has a natural nail care business, which she began four years ago. Her business is online and she also sells her product at events.
Victoria Benitez, 11, makes soap. She started a year ago and sells them at her mom’s pop-up boutique, Lilies of the Field, which also is on Instagram. Her mom, Marielena Benitz, partners with an artisan in the Dominican Republic for jewelry. She also sells Bohemian clothing. “That’s what I like,” said Benitz.
They also have handmade accessories from women in South Asia. “Their purpose is to empower women,” said Benitz.
Connecticut Farms Presbyterian Church is located at 888 Stuyvesant Ave.
For more information and to learn about other events, visit: https:www.ctfarmschurch.org.
Above left, Giulio Gambuto, of Giulio’s Flag Designs, has had his business for the past three years. He works from home making wooden American Flags designs. He said, ‘I’m retired and had nothing to do.’ Above center, Pauli Verridicci, of Springfield, has a storefront in Flemington, where she’s been selling a variety of items, including jewelry and Halloween pillows, for years. Above right, Kyrie Katz of Elmora, has an online store on Instagram called K. Style Collection LLC. She offers quality jewelry for a price point. She said, ‘Stainless steel, copper, brass; rings fit most sizes, something for every budget.’ Below left, Marian Balkum of Irvington, started making baby blankets as a hobby and then one thing led to another, and she began her business, Baby Be Mine. She has a variety of colors and the blue/green combo is the bestseller. Below center, Ashley Ann Thomas, of Essex County, has a natural nail care business, which she began four years ago. Her business is online and she also sells her product at events. Below right, Marielena Benitez, of Lilies of the Field Boutique, stands with her daughters, Valentina, 8, and Victoria, 11. Benitz partners with an artisan in the Dominican Republic for jewelry. She also sells Bohemian clothing. ‘That’s what I like,’ she said.
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Township of Union appoints new arts director
The township of Union has announced Victoria Duncker is its new arts director, a role created to lead the township’s creative vision, community engagement and the development of the newly opened Union Arts Center – a space dedicated to fostering creativity, connection and culture for all.
A seasoned performer, producer and storyteller, Duncker brings a rare blend of artistic excellence, media experience, and community vision to this newly created role. She will also oversee the transformative partnership between the township of Union and American Theater Group, which will bring professional theater and diverse arts programming to the newly constructed DMK Black Box Theater.
“This is an exciting and pivotal moment for the township of Union as we take a significant step in realizing our vision for a vibrant cultural future,” said Mayor James Bowser. “The appointment of Victoria Duncker is a testament to our commitment to making the arts accessible to every resident through the new Union Arts Center. Her passion and experience will drive Union to become a leading creative hub in New Jersey.”
A graduate of the University of Miami, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in musical theater, Duncker began her two-decade career on stage
and screen, appearing in numerous productions regionally and nationally. Her artistic range – from classical performance to contemporary storytelling – has shaped her approach to creative development and public engagement. She is also a member of Actors Equity Association and SAG-AFTRA, both professional entertainment unions. Duncker’s artistic and professional background includes decades of experience produc-
ing, directing and performing across stage and media; championing inclusivity and representation in the arts through accessible programming; building bridges among artists, civic leaders and cultural organizations; and developing impactful storytelling platforms that inform, inspire and connect.
As the creator and host of the awardnominated New Mommy at 40 Podcast, Duncker has built a national platform that explores motherhood, resilience and identity with authenticity and depth. Her ability to connect with audiences through personal storytelling has not only made her a trusted voice in media but also reflects the empathy and accessibility she brings to arts leadership.
“Art is one of the most powerful tools for belonging,” said Duncker. “The township of Union has such rich cultural roots and community spirit. I’m honored to help shape a shared creative future where every resident feels seen, inspired and connected.”
In her new role, Duncker will develop and implement a comprehensive Arts and Culture Plan designed to position Union as a leading creative hub in the region. Key initiatives will include:
Public art and placemaking: Expanding the presence of local art in public spaces, parks and downtown areas;
Community partnerships: Collaborating with schools, art organizations and civic groups to create year-round programming;
Artist development: Supporting emerging and established artists through workshops, residencies and township commissions;
Diversity and inclusion: Ensuring all Union residents – across backgrounds and generations – see themselves reflected in the arts; and
Economic vitality: Using arts programming as a driver for local business engagement.
At the heart of this vision is the newly unveiled Union Arts Center – a dynamic and inclusive space dedicated to fostering creativity, community, and culture. The center will serve as a vibrant cornerstone where residents can create, perform, learn, and connect. From gallery exhibitions and performances to youth workshops and cross-community collaborations, Duncker hopes the Union Arts Center will become a welcoming home for artistic expression and exchange.
“The Union Arts Center represents our belief that art should be for everyone,” said Duncker. “My hope is that it grows into a living, breathing reflection of Union’s creative spirit – accessible, inspiring and deeply rooted in the community.”
Victoria Duncker
