Union Leader - July 2026

UNIONLEADER

UNIONNEWSDAILY.COM

Juneteenth celebrated

— See Page 3

Market opens up

— See Page 4

Band ‘won’t back down’

— See Page 5

VOL. 12 NO. 09

JULY 2026

Petting zoo comes to Vauxhall Library

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent Children recently enjoyed an afternoon with furry, feathered and scaly friends at Vauxhall Branch Library.

Farm Chicks Traveling Petting Zoo is an educational and recreational petting zoo that provides a fun, safe experience.

Almost 100 patrons were at the library.

Owner Diana Warcholik and her assistant, Nancy White, offered the opportunity for children to see farm animals up close and to pet them.

“Pet gently,” Warcholik said. “They are friendly animals. They don’t bite.”

Pumpkin and Lasagna are two 8-yearold guinea pigs. They are siblings. Guinea pigs live between eight and 10 years.

“They are very friendly,” said Warcholik. “They are vegetarians. They eat a lot of plants, grass, clover… Lettuce is their favorite. They like cucumbers. Tomatoes.

They love carrots. They like every fruit.

They love apples and blueberries.”

Salt and Pepper are two miniature bantam chickens. They have very fluffy feathers and feathers on their legs, which means they are “booted.”

They are omnivores. They eat bugs, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, chicken, eggs and plants. “They are very good eaters,” said Warcholik.

Bantam chickens can lay one egg per day.

Warcholik explained that the male chickens are called roosters and they are the farm’s alarm clock, waking other chickens, farm animals and farmers, starting at 4 a.m. “Their job is also a bodyguard,” said Warcholik. “They watch out for danger, protecting hens.”

Oatmeal and Raisin are twin Dutch rabbits, just three months old. They always have a color on their head and ears matching the color on their back, with a band of white color in the middle, unlike rabbits in the wild, which have camouflage colors such as brown and gray – never white. Rabbits have great eyesight See FARM, Page 2

Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

Above left, Nancy White holds an 8-year-old guinea pig named Lasagna.

Above right, Victoria, 5, takes a closer look at a miniature bantam chicken, Pepper. Below, Diana Warcholik holds Pepper.

528 N. Michigan Ave Kenilworth 908-688-8333 HOURS: Monday - Saturday: 7:30am - 5pm • Sunday - Closed

2 — July 2026 — Union Leader

Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

Above left, Nancy White and Diana Warcholik from Farm Chicks Traveling Petting Zoo hold twin Dutch rabbits, Oatmeal and Raisin. Above, second from left, Ellen Charles, director of Precious Kids Daycare Center, poses

with a Dutch rabbit, Oatmeal. Above, third from left, Warcholik holds a male baby duck, Toast. Above right, Warcholik holds ‘Martha,’ a 24-yearold red spotted tortoise.

Farm Chicks Traveling Petting Zoo comes to Vauxhall Library (Continued from Page 1) and move very quickly.

“Very friendly, easy to hold,” said Warcholik. “Low energy.”

Toast and Maple Syrup are baby white duck siblings.

They have bills, they do not have a sharp beak as a chicken does. Chickens peck at their food.

Ducks will scoop it up. They eat little fish, tadpoles and frogs.

Warcholik said, “A duck would eat as many worms as they can catch. It’s their favorite thing.”

Ducks have three toes and webbed feet, enabling them to swim. “They paddle in water all day long,” said Warcholik. “They love to be in water.”

Martha is a red spotted tortoise from South America; a warmer climate.

“Not an easy pet to have,” said Warcholik. “During the summer, she can be outside. On evenings down to the

50s, in the house. Perfect weather is 80s and humid.”

Martha is 24 years old and can live to be 80.

Her shell is hard but sensitive. “If you find a turtle in a park, don’t bang on it,” said Warcholik.

To learn more about Farm Chicks Traveling Petting Zoo, visit: https://www.farmchicks123.com/.

Visit Vauxhall Branch Library at: https://uplnj.org/hours-and-locations/vauxhallbranch/.

Lyè´ µÒʼnL®yµÌ

ÌÒ¡´yÒ ʼn´ºµÒ ®èʼnÅyè´ µÒÌĜʼnOyÒ ÌʼnŲʼnÅyè´ µÒÌʼn yÌ ʼnºµʼn È ¡ÒʼnyÅÅȺáy®Ĝ

;y µº®¡y'º´ O ´º ®¡µ Ĝ º´

ďČČIJčĉċIJččČČ

Union Leader — July 2026 — 3

Juneteenth Festival is celebrated at Bierteumpfel Park

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent It was an afternoon of community celebration.

Union Township had its sixth annual Juneteenth Festival at Bierteumpfel Park on June Saturday, 20. There were more than 50 Black owned businesses, including food vendors, fashion and apparel vendors, art vendors, books, health and wellness care, accessories and plenty to do for children. There was also live entertainment and deejays.

The event was hosted by Kernard Reid.

Sen. Joe Cryan gave a powerful speech. After wishing everyone a “Happy Freedom Day,” he spoke about cuts from the current U.S. administration. He said, “Let’s get real, folks. If they had their way, there wouldn’t be a Juneteenth. You have a voice. Vote! Vote! Vote! Use that voice to be heard.”

Assemblywoman Annette Quijano spoke about working with Cryan to push the legislation, urging the federal government to designate Juneteenth as a federal holiday during the Barack Obama administration.

She said, “We want to make sure the person in the White House today doesn’t take it away. Today is not only about remembering history, it’s about making history. Vote for people who believe in the same things you do. Make sure your voice is heard.”

Tinida Clark and Linda Brown sang “Lift Every Voice.”

Clark is the owner of House of Playokee in Union, a restaurant that has a variety of food and live entertainment.

Giving homage to New Jersey, their dishes are named after famous entertainers from the state, such as Franki Vali Empanadas and Whitney Houston Wings, to name a few.

“We want everyone to feel at home,” said Clark.

Men of Soul performed the high energy sounds of soul, Motown, R&B, funk and classic hits. People danced and sang along to the timeless music of The O’Jays, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations and Michael Jackson, to name a few.

Amobichuk M. Moseseche is a 14year-old author who was selling his three books about overcoming middle-school challenges and life situations for older students.

Damara Lowery has a small business called Breakfast Beaute. She works out of the home and puts food boards together for presentation and has workshops catering to putting boards together. She began her business a few months ago.

Brenda Williams, of Maplewood, writes books that help young girls build confidence. She was inspired by her granddaughters. Currently, she is work-

Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

Above left, Amobichuk M. Moseseche, 14, is the author of three books. Above center, Damara Lowery of Breakfast Beaute holds one of her food board creations. Above right, Brenda Williams, of Maplewood, writes children's books about building confidence. Below left, Denyce Riley creates healthy satin hair bonnets. Below right, Flora Ekpe-Idang creates Corage dolls, multicultural dolls that encourage girls to be unstoppable. Bottom right, Linda Brown and Tinida Clark sing ‘Lift Every Voice.’

ing on another book for boys, called “Brave and Brilliant Boys.”

Denyce Riley, of Orange, was selling satin bonnets. She started her business during the pandemic six years ago. “The satin keeps hair healthy,” she said. “Prevents split ends. Keeps your head warm.

It’s good for your hair.”

Riley has an Instagram page and sells her product at vendor events.

Flora Ekpe-Idang’s business is Corage Dolls. She sells her dolls at pop ups and has products in retail spaces. Her multicultural dolls encourage girls to be unstoppable. She also had affirmation cards for children – and adults. The West Orange resident also has a book about entrepreneurship for children called “Don’t Give Up Aaliyah!”

To learn more about Union Township visit: https://www.uniontownship.com/.

4 — July 2026 — Union Leader

The Market at Union’s 2026 season has begun

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent Previously known as the Union Farmers Market, The Market at Union has rebranded and relocated. They can now be found in the front parking lot of Town Hall/Union Public Library, 1980 Morris Ave. Hours are Thursdays, from 5 to 8 p.m. There’s local produce, handmade goods, artisan items and food trucks.

Union Sourdough crafts naturally fermented small-batch baked goods using simple, high-quality ingredients.

Their artisanal selection includes fresh loaves, sourdough bagels, pizza dough and unique specialty breads.

Owner Mark Pereira said, “Our cinnamon rolls are to die for!”

Chris Wagner, of Wagner Family Farm in Asbury – not to be confused with Asbury Park – was selling garlic shoots, lettuces, dill, honey, jelly and beef sticks. “Everything is fresh and organic,” Wagner said.

Amaras Caribbean BBQ specializes in exceptional authentic Jamaican cuisine and savory grilled favorites. Their signature menu features rich, traditional dishes such as rasta pasta, jerk chicken and tender oxtail. A photo of their oxtail recently went viral on Instagram with more than 337,000 views, according to owner Camille Cox. Amara’s Caribbean BBQ has been in business for five years and was named after Cox’s daughter, Amaras. They can be found at farmers markets and festivals. They also do catering.

Rachie’s Bakery offers an array of premium, handmade baked goods. They specialize in gourmet stuffed cookies, along with a delicious variety of homemade pastries and sweets. The treats are Asian and American flavored. Owner Rachel Arcilla said she’s been in business for a year and a half, selling at popups around New Jersey. She said her most popular treat is Hello Panda on a chocolate chip cookie. “A good mix of familiar and unfamiliar,” she said. “Aesthetically pleasing.”

Peta Pop Cake Pops are refreshing gourmet ice pop creations. They are a new business that is based in Union and operates online, run by Jennifer Rosario.

She said the treats are customizable.

Each week she comes up with a new flavor for the farmers’ market. “Lemon is making its debut,” she said.

Her inspiration for the treats came from having three boys and trying to find creative ways for healthier options.

She likes to know what’s in the food they eat. Petal Pops have no preservatives and are made with flour, eggs and butter. Rosario manages the sugar level with a lower reduced amount of sugar in the treats.

Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

Above left, Mark Pereira, owner of Union Sourdough, said his cinnamon rolls are ‘to die for.’ Above center, Chris Wagner, of Wagner Family Farm, shows off vibrant organic spinach. Above right, Camille Cox, owner of Amara’s Caribbean BBQ, poses with her daughter, Amara, who the business was named after. Below left, Rachel Arcilla, of Rachie’s Bakery, offers Asian and American flavored treats. Below center, Jennifer Rosario, owner of Petal Pop Cake Pops, offers treats with a lower, reduced amount of sugar that can be customized. Below right, pictured is Luisa Tobon, a cashier and helper at Gustosa Food & Desserts, which specializes in Venezuelan food.

Gustosa Food & Desserts specializes in authentic Venezuelan street food and traditional desserts. Luisa Tobon, cashier and helper, said their Arepa La Santa was voted No. 1 in Jersey Eats.

The dish is a corn sandwich with cheese, a sirloin cut and homemade cilantro

sauce. Another favorite is their Cachapa, which is a semi sweet pancake.

Other vendors this year include Urban Dogs, MozzArepas, Ashea Natural Products, Chlorophyll & Chill, Cousins Main Lobster, Grey’s Area Grille, Jammed Up Baker, Lil Snow

Bites, LoveFoodMore, Musherz Bone Broth, Mystic Moon Sticker, Pine Acres Lemonade, Plantraw, Roots to Press, Sip Haus, Twelve Truck and Vittle Paws.

To learn more about The Market at Union, visit: https://www.uniontwpfarmersmarket.com/.

Union Leader — July 2026 — 5

Portuguese Churrasqueira & Restaurant

Free Delivery

Catering Available

TAKE OUT or DELIVERY

Soup Barbeque

($15 Min.)

Appetizers ½ Order

Salads Whole

BBQ Chicken...............................$14.00...........$20.00 BBQ Pork Ribs............................$15.00….. . . . . . .$22.00 ½ Combo Chicken & Pork Ribs..........................$17.00 Whole Combo Chicken & Pork Ribs....................$22.00 Beef Combo (1/2 Chicken & 1/2 Beef Ribs). . . . . . .$27.00

Fish

Dessert

Meats

Coffee ½ Order

Whole

Pork Bits w/Clams............................................... $21.00 Pork Bits w/Shrimp....................... $16.00.......... $21.00 Portuguese Style Steak & Egg. . . . . . . ....................... $30.00 Steak w/Mushrooms............................................ $30.00 Large Sirloin Steak............................................... $30.00 Chicken in Garlic Sauce................. $16.00.......... $21.00 Beef Short Ribs.............................. $19.00.......... $32.00 Grilled Pork Cutlets....................... $16.00.......... $21.00

Sandwiches

Shrimp in Garlic Sauce.................. $16.00.......... $21.00 Grilled Cod Fish...................................................$27.00 Boiled Cod Fish....................................................$27.00 Grilled Salmon............................... $18.00..........$27.00 Fish Fillet...................................... $16.00..........$22.00

Chicken Sandwich & Fries.................................... $12.00 Steak Sandwich & Fries........................................ $12.00 Pork Sandwich & Fries..........................................$12.00 Fish Filet Sandwich & Fries.................................. $12.00 Chicken Fingers & Fries....................................... $13.00

All served with any 2 choices of : Rice, French Fries, Vegetables or Beans

1275 Stuyvesant Avenue, Union

1363 Burnet Avenue, Union

908-688-8897

908-687-0313

www.burnetbbq.com

6 — July 2026 — Union Leader

Photos Courtesy of Tyler Kubicz

Above left, Richard Kubicz – looking and sounding the same as Tom Petty – was one of the deciding factors in starting a Tom Petty tribute band. Above right, meet Damn the Torpedoes: Lee Boice, lead guitar;

Johnny Pisano, bass/backing vocals; Kubicz, lead vocals/rhythm guitar; Gary Castellucci, keyboards/guitar/harmonica; and Ross Kantor, drums/percussion/backing vocals.

Union musician’s Tom Petty tribute band ‘Won’t Back Down’

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent In 2006, Richard Kubicz decided to put a band together with an old high school friend. “I was never a fan of tribute bands, but I realized they brought something more to the table than a regular cover band,” he said.

Regarding Tom Petty, Kubicz said, “I think I could sound like him. I look a little bit like him. Those are elements that are important.”

Damn the Torpedoes started performing at small places, such as bars, then just started getting bigger and bigger. By 2010, they were playing BB King’s Blues Club in Memphis, Tenn. They’ve even played to 5,000 people at SteelStacks Cultural Center in Bethlehem, Pa. Other popular places include Darryl’s House Restaurant & Live Music Club in Pawling, N.Y., and The City Winery in New York City. The band is booked well into 2027.

“We’re playing the same rooms national touring acts are playing,” Kubicz said.

Kubicz first discovered music, as a little boy. Living in Union, there was a piano in the house. “My mother told me she wanted me to learn to play,” he said.

He took lessons locally in Union. He didn’t like it. But, at 10, he started getting into the guitar. “Dad got me a guitar at 11,”

he said. “I started taking lessons. My mother wasn’t happy. She was from a classical Eastern European family. She said, ‘You’ll never make a living.’ She thought classical was more refined.”

Nevertheless, his parents encouraged him to play, sing and write music. “I started writing music when I was 14,” said Kubicz. “One of my biggest bands I loved was Queen. I was a big fan when ‘We are the Champions’ came out.”

Kubicz liked all the classic rock groups, including Tom Petty.

“Tom Petty was like a singer/songwriter,” he said. “I admired him and his band and the music he put out at the time.

And still putting out in older years.”

Prior to Damn the Torpedoes, Kubicz said he didn’t have much of a career, “besides being a singer/songwriter coffee house kinda guy.” His musical challenges used to be trying to fill a room. Now, with Damn the Torpedoes, they are selling out.

What’s special about Damn the Torpedoes is that they took some of Tom Petty’s songs and made them their own. Kubicz said, “We have audience participation songs like ‘Free Falling,’ ‘Don’t Come Around Here No More’ is the same kind of thing. We’re more than just musical. One of the big things that makes us stand out, we’re really good at engaging the audi-

ence. We have a really decent following, 14,000 followers on Facebook.”

In addition to Damn the Torpedoes, Kubicz is in an original band called Wanted in April. In 2022 he moved from Union to Sussex County. He said, “I love being on the farm here. We have an acre. We’re always making improvements. Gardening is my other thing. I’m going to start taking up golf again. I have a bike.”

The musician is still connected to

Union, having family there and in nearby towns. And he says he’s still connected to his high school friends.

Other band members in Damn the Torpedoes are: Lee Boice, lead guitar; Johnny Pisano, bass/backing vocals; Gary Castellucci, keyboards/guitar/harmonica; and Ross Kantor, drums/percussion/backing vocals.

To learn more about Damn the Torpedoes, visit: https://www.pettytunes.com/.

UNIONLEADER LOCAL, POSITIVE, COMMUNITY NEWS Visit our Website for more news and photos.

UnionNewsDaily.com PUBLISHED BY: Worrall Media 1291 Stuyvesant Avenue Union NJ 07083 908-686-7700 Editorial@TheLocalSource.com

Publisher: David Worrall Managing Editor: David Jablonski Advertising Manager: Joseph Farina

All contents ©2025 Worrall Community Newspapers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of this publication and any republication or broadcast without written permission is prohibited.

Union Leader — July 2026 — 7

Photos Courtesy of Greater Union Township Chamber of Commerce

Above left are the honorees of the Greater Union Township Chamber of Commerce. Above right, behind every great board is a great team, and this one is no exception. To the incoming board officers and directors, top row, from left, Charles Morton/Shake A Paw, Fred Butler/Butler Printing, Gorete Ferreira/Insurance Associate Plus, Julie D’Aloia/ConnectOne Bank and Laura Bretzger/Citizen member; and bottom row, from left, Joseph Stam-

pone/Major Printing, David Arminio/Friends of the Union Library, James Masterson/Chamber CEO, Claudia Schiavone/Northfield Bank and Donna Steinmetz/BCB Bank, your dedication to this chamber does not go unnoticed. What you give behind the scenes is immeasurable, and the board is grateful. Thank you for leading with excellence, and for reminding everyone why this organization has lasted 70 years and will last 70 more.

70th annual gala recap: Celebration, connectivity, prosperity What a night. On Thursday, April 30, the Greater Union Township Chamber of Commerce gathered at Galloping Hill Caterers to celebrate something truly special, 70 years of businesses, relationships and community built right here in Union County. Themed “The Platinum Anniversary: Honoring our Legacy, Inspiring our Future,” the evening was filled with laughter, recognition and the kind of energy that only comes from a room full of people who genuinely believe in each other. From cocktail hour to the final award presentation, members showed up and showed out, ready to celebrate the legacy we've built together.

Seven decades strong, and the best is still ahead.

Every year, a few names rise to the top, not because they sought the spotlight, but because of the impact they made. This year's honorees represent the heart of what the chamber stands for: businesses that serve their communities with consistency, character and care. To Union County Savings Bank/Jerry Jerez, Rocio Escalante and all, Commissioner Michele Delisfort, Midpoint Roofing/Kevin Estrada and Al Resex Sanchez, TAPintoKenilworth/ Telina Cuppari, Penstock Coffee Roasters/Paul Farmiga, Blue Ribbon Bakery/Jaeder and Jose, and and Hook and Reel Restaurant, congratulations. You don't just run a business this year. You show up for your neighbors, invest in your communities and make this region better

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1928

because you’re in it. GUTCOC is proud to call you members and even prouder to call you honorees. This night was yours and you earned every second of it.

Behind every great board is a great team, and this one is no exception. To the incoming board officers and directors, top row, from left, Charles Morton/Shake A Paw, Fred Butler/Butler Printing, Gorete Ferreira/Insurance Associate Plus, Julie D’Aloia/ConnectOne Bank and Laura Bretzger/Citizen member; and bottom row, from left, Joseph Stampone/Major Printing, David Arminio/Friends of the Union Library, James Masterson/Chamber CEO, Claudia Schiavone/Northfield Bank and Donna Steinmetz/BCB Bank, your dedication to this chamber does not

go unnoticed. What you give behind the scenes is immeasurable, and the board is grateful. Thank you for leading with excellence, and for reminding everyone why this organization has lasted 70 years and will last 70 more.

A celebration this meaningful deserves a team that treats it that way and the staff at Galloping Hill Caterers delivered exactly that. From the moment guests walked through the doors to the last table cleared at the end of the night, every detail was handled with professionalism, warmth and care. Members felt it, honorees noticed it and the chamber is deeply grateful for the role you played in making its platinum anniversary everything it was hoped it would be.

RISTORANTE ITALIANO

Serving Genuine Italian Cuisine since 1963

Carpet • Tile • Window Treatments Wood • Ceramic • Sheet Vinyl

Hannon Floors has consistently delivered on the promise of offering excellent workmanship, competitive pricing, and floor covering expertise to customers since opening our doors in 1928.

NEWLY RENOVATED SHOWROOM FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE & TO SERVE YOU BETTER www.hannonfloors.com HOURS: Monday thru Friday 9:00-4:00

1119 Springfield Road, Union 908-686-6333

While the new restaurant is being built in Union Center on Stuyvesant Ave., we will be operating out of

470 CHESTNUT STREET, UNION (formerly Proud Papa’s).

NEW ADDRESS

470 Chestnut Street, Union Formerly Proud Papa’s

908-964-3300 www.cioffisfood.com

8 — July 2026 — Union Leader

Union native reflects on his musical career

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent Experimental guitarist Ian Smit has had an exciting, extensive recording career – both as a solo artist and with his band, Monkeyworks.

He’s been with Monkeyworks for the past 30 years. The current lineup performed at notable places such as The Knitting Factory, NJPAC and The World Beat Jazz Series at The Guggenheim Museum. They also played at the CMJ Music Festival in the 1990s. Most recently, Monkeyworks has been engaged in creating completely improvised interactive soundtracks for dance, spoken word and painters painting, along with several silent films for the Studio B productions of “Frankenstein” and “Edgar Allan Poe” in a theater setting. Monkeyworks has also created live spontaneous soundtracks to various silent films in many venues around the Tri-state area.

It was at Central Six School in Union where Smit played his first musical instrument, the clarinet. But it was a family trip to Brigantine that sparked Smit’s interest in music. He remembered staying at a place that had a hi fi stereo system. “I looked through the records and they had The Carpenters, Woody Shaw… I always gravitated towards things that were melodic.”

Listening to music in Brigantine got Smit into the Great American Songbook standards, but his parents wouldn’t let him play guitar until he was 18. He was inspired by a buddy who worked at a deli. He said, “I would ride my bike to get a Hostess Suzi Q and a soda. My buddy, Pete, had his guitar at the store. Because of him, I got into the actual playing.”

Smit was intrigued by “The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour” television show. “He was a monster guitar player,” he said. “Him and Roy Clark.”

He’d also listen to AM radio and later transitioned to FM. “That changed everything,” he said. “A lot of the rock stuff from that era wasn’t as melodic, like the early Beatles or R&B, The Temptations. Slowly, I caught up.”

Smit really dove into guitar playing and then got into much more sensitive jazz. He said, “A lot of my favorite stuff, David Torn played on.”

Torn, an American guitarist, composer and producer, played electric/national steel guitar/effects on Smit’s digital album “Que?” which is available on Bandcamp. Torn is known for combining electronic and acoustic instruments and for his use of looping. He has contributed to recordings by artists as diverse as David Bowie, Madonna, Tori Amos, Mark Isham, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Steve Jansen, Richard Barbieri, Mick Karn and David Sylvian. His music has been featured in a wide variety of films, including, “Velvet Goldmine,” “The Big Lebowski” and “Three Kings,” to name a few.

Smit has known Torn for decades, as have his bandmates in Monkeyworks. Maintaining those creative working relationships all these years are what Smit considers to be the greatest achievement. When asked about the highlight of his musical career, Smit said, “No real highlight at all. The highlight is, I’m still playing. Just made a record last week.”

Monkeyworks will be playing at Smalls Jazz Club in New York City later this year.

To learn more about Monkeyworks, visit: https://monkeyworks.squarespace.com/.

Photo Courtesy of Jp Fitzgerald

Ian Smit

UNION AREA MARKETPLACE AUTOMOTIVE

HEALTH

Your Experienced Service Provider REALTOR

Kathleen Gwaldis

Realtor Associate

415 Chestnut St., Union 908-964-7155

For All Your Real Estate Needs.

Full-Time Realtor for 40 Years Union Specialist

Call for a FREE Market Analysis Today!

908-400-8409 Weichert President’s Club 505 Millburn Ave., Short Hills, NJ 07078 973-467-7391

Union Leader — July 2026 — 9

A ‘Weird NJ’ afternoon is hosted at Vauxhall Library

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent Weird NJ is a travel guide and magazine to places you won’t find on any tourist attraction pamphlets. Places that are weird, odd or unique are celebrated in the magazine.

Mark Moran, who co-publishes the magazine with Mark Sceurman, recently paid a visit to Vauxhall Branch Library.

Vauxhall Branch Library manager Gabriel Ramos said he discovered the magazine while shopping at the now defunct record store Vintage Vinyl.

Weird NJ publishes twice a year and is currently on issue No. 64. It started as a self-published newsletter in 1989. “There was no such thing as social media,” said Moran. “(Cell) phones weren’t invented yet. In 1993, people didn’t have computers. Weird NJ was born with a typewriter and putting a staple through the pages.”

Stories were passed along by word of mouth.

For example, the Devil’s Tree in Bernards Township. The tree is believed to be cursed. “If you touch it, a tragedy will fall upon you,” said Moran. “It’s alleged if you try to chop the tree down, you’d die on the spot.”

Moran continued to explain that, back in the day, people would go to places in the middle of the night. “They’d go on an adventure,” he said. “We have ancient mysteries right here in New Jersey.”

He spoke about the Jersey Devil. He described it as “a beast said to be born human in the Pine Barrens.” It was alleged to be the 13th child of a mother.

She cursed the baby and it started to grow a tail and hooves. “It looked like a flying deer with bat wings,” he said. “People believed it.”

Merchants and Drovers Tavern in Rahway was rumored to be haunted, Moran told attendees. “The place has a real reputation. People who spent the night can tell some chilling stories.”

Moran spoke about the block of granite at the gravesite of Ray Tse in Linden. The stone is a full-sized Mercedes. Tse had an

older brother who promised to buy him one when he got his license. Tse died before his 17th birthday, however, and this is the way his brother honored his promise. “Detail is incredible,” said Moran.

Tse is buried in a mausoleum in front of the carving.

Bruce P. Berman has an unusual grave monument in Rahway. He was an artist and special effects animator. Before his death, he designed his own headstone, which features 3D scans of his own face and hands. The headstone also featured his website.

Local heroes are people who are a little different in a strange, fascinating way, explained Moran. Those known in Union County include Charles Addams of Westfield, the famous cartoonist who created The Addams Family; and John List, also of Westfield, who killed his wife and kids and then left them in the house. List was featured on “America’s Most Wanted” in 1990, which led to his arrest. He went to

prison and died there.

During the Satanic Panic in the 1970s, Gregg Sanders killed his parents with a hatchet then went up the tower in Watchung Reservation and threw himself off. “He didn’t leave much of a note, except to say, ‘I’m sorry,’” said Moran.

Moran shared some examples of “roadside finds.” He said, “Odd, roadside things seem completely out of place in the modern age.”

He talked about places such as Jungle Habitat and the Terry Lou Zoo in Scotch Plains. He said, “You don’t see little family-run zoos anymore.”

When Bowcraft Amusement Park on Route 22 in Scotch Plains was abandoned, Moran said he felt ‘a sadness,’ a real sense of loss. The abandoned area has been redeveloped.

In conclusion, Moran said, “You can see dozens of these things in one day. It’s like a wonderland.”

Visit Weird NJ at: https://weirdnj.com/.

HOME SERVICE DIRECTORY ROOFING

FOR ROOFING Repairs Vinyl Siding • Windows Estimates 908-486-0866 Same Day 973-906-8404

Photo by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

Photos Courtesy of Vauxhall Library

Above left, Vauxhall Branch Library manager Gabriel Ramos and Mark Moran of Weird NJ stand together. Above center, some of the many issues of Weird NJ are on display at Vauxhall Branch Library. Above right, Moran shows attendees a copy of an early Weird NJ magazine, when it was a self-published newsletter.

TREE EXPERT

BOYLE

Photo by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

The grave monument of Bruce Berman, who designed his own headstone.

Advertise for as little as $25 For more information, call

908-686-7700 x104

ADVERTISING

TREE SURGERY CO.

SUMMER DEALS

908-964-9358

908-686-7700 x104

E S T. 1 9 2 2 Tree & Stump Removal Pruning Tree Surgery in All Its Branches Union

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS Call Classified

ADVERTISE HERE! CALL CLASSIFIED 908-686-7700 x104

10 — July 2026 — Union Leader

Historic Bike Tour and Brunch for America’s 250th Anniversary is announced The township of Union and the 250th Committee invite community members to celebrate Independence Day and America’s 250th Anniversary with the annual Historic Bike Tour and Brunch on Saturday, July 4.

“We are thrilled to bring our community together for this special 250th Anniversary event,” said Mayor Patricia Guerra-Frazier. “The Historic Bike Tour is a fantastic opportunity for residents of all fitness levels to stay active, connect with neighbors and enjoy a wonderful morning together.

“Capping off the ride with a great breakfast at Connecticut Farms Church makes it the perfect way to start our

Independence Day celebrations.”

This year’s milestone event includes a 12-mile guided bike ride starting at Connecticut Farms Presbyterian Church, 888 Stuyvesant Ave. Participants will pass five of Union’s most iconic historical sites, combining fitness, local history and holiday festivities. The route is suitable for cyclists of all fitness levels, who can ride at their own pace with a police escort.

Following the ride, participants will be treated to a catered brunch featuring “The Connecticut Farm” as the signature sandwich, which layers classic Taylor ham, egg and cheese on an everything bagel, accompanied by a crispy potato

Happy 4ththof July

pancake and a house-made Jersey tomato ketchup.

The menu also includes a fresh kale Caesar salad on the side and concludes with individual strawberry shortcake cups for dessert.

For riders looking for a lighter or faster option, a quick-grab selection of breakfast items will also be available.

This milestone celebration is designed to accommodate cyclists of all fitness levels, offering residents a unique opportunity to stay active, connect with neighbors and honor the deep

revolutionary heritage of the local community.

Tickets are $10 per person and cover the complete historical tour, as well as full access to the post-ride brunch offerings. Space is limited and the first 100 participants to pre-register will also receive a complimentary cooling towel and water bottle at check-in.

Online registration is officially open and residents can secure their spots at uniontownship.com.

For additional updates, follow @twpunionnj on social media.

IN MEMORIAM • BELLOSO – Olivia, of Union; June 9. Union High School Class of 2026 member. Female commander of JROTC. Daughter, sister, 18.

• DRAGONE – Vincent, of Union; May 18. Husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, granduncle, 66.

• FAUGHNAN – Garard P., of Union; June 10. Husband, father, grandfather, 70.

• MAHON – Joseph F., of Clark, formerly of Union; June 3. Vietnam War tank commander. Business manager. Husband, father, brother, grandfather, 81.

• MCMAHON – Michael D., of Union, formerly of South Orange; June 16. Army veteran. Seton Hall director. Father, brother, grandfather, uncle, 84.

250th ANNIVERSARY 1776 - 2026

INDEPENDENCE • FREEDOM • DEMOCRACY

This message is sponsored by these community minded businesses and organizations Weichert Realtors KATHLEEN GWALDIS 908-400-8409 Union County Specialist 505 Millburn Avenue Short Hills 973-467-7391

THE HOLISTIC BUFFET Your Health, YOUR way!

Quality Supplements $5 off coupon at: www.HolisticBuffet.com GINNY 973-703-7318

PINKAVA’S MOTOR CO. Auto Repair since 1910 Service is our Hallmark.

4 Caldwell Place Springfield 973-376-0181

VITO MAZZA HAIR AND SCALP WELLNESS Hair Loss solutions since 1967 Family Owned and Operated 10 Green Street Woodbridge 732-636-0119

MOUNTAINSIDE DELI DoorDash Available 895 Mountainside Avenue Mountainside 908-233-3092 All Major Credit Cards www.mountainsidedeli.com

CHARMING PET GROOMING LLC Dogs love it there 206 Morris Avenue Springfield 973-405-9509 pet.ltheme.com/explore/charming

MATHNASIUM OF UNION We make math fun K-12 326 Chestnut Street Union 908-325-9069 mathnasium.com/union

FIT-RITE UNIFORM COMPANY, INC. 657 Chestnut Street Union 908-964-5800 www.FitRiteUniform.com

• MICHAEL – Joseph John, of Union, formerly of Irvington; June 5. Business owner. Husband, father, brother, uncle, 58.

• PONDISCIO – Ralph L. Jr., of Boynton Beach, Fla., formerly of Union; June 1. Worked at General Motors. Husband, father, brother, grandfather, 85.

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.

New!

Signature Stackburgers MEAT THE DQ® SIGNATURE STACKBURGERS® There’s no room for the ordinary here.

Make way for DQ® cheeseburgers that achieve maximum flavor capacity: the Signature Stackburgers®.

DQ Grill & Chill Restaurant 2625 Morris Avenue, Union

908-624-9222

Union Leader — July 2026 — 11

$18,257 Quality of Life Grant received from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation for pool lift The Gateway Family YMCA has announced that it has been awarded $18,257 as part of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation National Paralysis Resource Center 2025 Direct Effect 1st Cycle Quality of life grants. Sixty-one grants totaling $1,240,870 were awarded. The Quality of Life Grants Program supports nonprofit organizations that empower individuals living with paralysis. Since the Quality of Life Grants Program’s inception, more than 4,000 grants totaling $48 million have been awarded. Funding for this program was made possible through a cooperative agreement with the Administration for Community Living.

The Reeve Foundation’s National Paralysis Resource Center offers several grants under the Quality of Life program, awarding grants in various categories with different amounts.

“These grants represent more than funding—they represent freedom, possibility, and dignity for individuals living with paralysis,” said Dan McNeal, director of the Quality of Life Grants Program at the Reeve Foundation.

“At the heart of our mission is a commitment to improving everyday life for our community. We are proud to support organizations across the country that are

Photos Courtesy of Colleen Clayton

removing barriers and building programs rooted in equity, accessibility and compassion.”

This grant allowed The Gateway Family YMCA to purchase and install a new Aqua Creek Revolution XL Deep Draft Pool Lift at The Gateway Family YMCA – Five Points Branch, 201 Tucker Ave., Union, expanding accessibility for indi-

viduals and families utilizing the YMCA pool for programs, exercise, or swimming.

The pool lift was part of a larger swimming pool renovation project that included installation of a new pool deck, painting and facility aesthetic enhancements, reopening in January 2026.

“Access to aquatics programming is essential for individuals in our communi-

ty. There are many therapeutic benefits of water therapy and this addition allows us to ensure that everyone has access,” said Colleen Clayton, chief development and strategy officer, The Gateway Family YMCA. For more information about The Gateway Family YMCA or YMCA programs, visit www.tgfymca.org.

COMMUNITY FIRST LOANS

WELCOME TO KPOT

7KH UDWHV TXRWHG DUH IRU SXUFKDVH WUDQVDFWLRQV RI RZQHU RFFXSLHG IDPLO\ SURSHUWLHV ORFDWHG LQ (VVH[ 8QLRQ +XGVRQ %HUJHQ 6RPHUVHW DQG 0LGGOHVH[ &RXQWLHV 7KLV SURJUDP LV QRW DYDLODEOH IRU SURSHUWLHV FXUUHQWO\ ¿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ÀRRG VHUYLFHV EDQN DWWRUQH\ UHYLHZ VHWWOHPHQW FORVLQJ IHHV RULJLQDWLRQ IHHV FRPPLWPHQW IHHV DQG SRLQWV LI DSSOLFDEOH <U $50 3D\PHQW ([DPSOH SD\PHQWV RI WKHQ SD\PHQWV RI EDVHG RQ D IXOO\ LQGH[HG UDWH RI 0RQWKO\ SD\PHQWV GR QRW LQFOXGH DSSOLFDEOH SURSHUW\ WD[HV IHHV LQVXUDQFH SUHPLXPV RU RWKHU UHODWHG FRVWV <RXU DFWXDO SD\PHQW REOLJDWLRQ ZLOO EH JUHDWHU &XUUHQW ,QGH[ LV WKH <U 7UHDVXU\ <HDU )L[HG 3D\PHQW ([DPSOH SHU ERUURZHG RQ D \HDU ¿[HG UDWH PRUWJDJH DW DQ LQWHUHVW UDWH RI ZLOO UHVXOW LQ SD\PHQWV RI 0RQWKO\ SD\PHQWV GR QRW LQFOXGH DSSOLFDEOH SURSHUW\ WD[HV IHHV LQVXUDQFH SUHPLXPV RU RWKHU UHODWHG FRVWV <RXU DFWXDO SD\PHQW REOLJDWLRQ ZLOO EH JUHDWHU 5DWHV DQG $35 DUH HႇHFWLYH DV RI WKH SXEOLFDWLRQ GDWH RI WKLV DG DQG DUH VXEMHFW WR FKDQJH ZLWKRXW QRWLFH 6H +DEOD (VSDxRO )DODPRV 3RUWXJXrV &DOO XV DW H[W 10/6 (48$/ 23325781,7< /(1'(5

www.lusitaniabank.com/mortgages

WE NEVER SELL OUR LOANS! We never sell our loans!

KPOT is a unique, hands-on all-you-can-eat dining experience that merges traditional Asian hot pot with Korean BBQ flavors – but modernized with a full bar and a nightlife-like atmosphere.

TODAY’S LOAN RATES

UNION PLAZA SHOPPING CENTER 2401 Route 22 East, Union (908) 998-9860 thekpot.com

12 — July 2026 — Union Leader

POSTAL CUSTOMER

PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #1046 W. CALDWELL, NJ

LIKE US & FOLLOW US facebook.com/UCLocalsource twitter.com/UCLocalsource

SOIL

We accommodate the trade as well as the do-it-yourselfers! We are always ready to assist.

Prices per yard

Black Top Soil........................................ $35 Jersey Brown........................................ $40

MULCH Black Dyed............................................. $33 Brown Dyed........................................... $33 Red Dyed................................................. $35 Hardwood.............................................. $24 Playground.............................................$35

FREE Same Day Delivery 5 yards or more in Union County only.

QUARRY BASE MATERIALS HARDSCAPE

TOOLS

LAWN & GARDEN

• Cement • Concrete Block • Belgium Block • Curbing • Bluestone Treads • Diamond Blades • Limestone Treads

• Mason Tools • Landscape Tools

• Grass Seed • Fertilizers • Peat Moss • Hay • Polymeric Sand • Paver Sealer • Paver Cleaner

DRAINAGE • Catch Basins • All Sizes of PVC Pipe & DWV Fittings

Mason Sand............................................ $60 3/4 Clean Stone..................................... $60 Stone Dust.............................................. $40 QP............................................................ $50

DECORATIVE STONE 3/8 Red Stone........................................ $80 3/4 Red Stone........................................ $80 3/4 Goose Egg...................................... $105 1 1/2 - 3 Goose Egg.............................. $125 3/4 Arctic White..................................$135 3/8 Riverbed / Pea Gravel................... $73 1 Riverbed.............................................. $95 1 1/2 - 3 Riverbed................................ $110 Prices subject to change without notice.