Family Fun Etiquette Day visits Union
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
In celebration of her new book, “SHINE Etiquette Workbook,” Nichole Fields recently hosted a book release party at Boss Loft in Union.
The interactive workbook is designed to equip children with timeless etiquette skills that build confidence and improve interpersonal and networking skills that will help them excel in all environments.
More than 40 people attended and participated in family fun that included interactive etiquette activities and demonstrations that teach basic etiquette skills. “I wanted to bring the workbook to life,” said Fields. “It was an outstanding event.”
There were four activity tables including a dining etiquette activity. Other activities included teaching children how to properly introduce themselves to adults. “Children had fun,” said Fields. “Adults did the activities, too.”
Fields’ core etiquette skills developed when she was just 9 years old and entered the world of pageants. “I had these skills of speaking to people. It was always very comfortable to me,” she said.
Having a bachelor’s degree in biological science, a master’s degree in public administration and a certification in International and Corporate Ethics and Compliance, Fields recognized the importance of etiquette in the corporate world. She began her business, I & I Etiquette and Professional Services, to provide engaging etiquette training that was relatable by creating an inclusive experience for audiences of all sizes and ages.
“SHINE Etiquette Workbook” is her first etiquette workbook. “My mission is to get out there and build etiquette skills,” said Fields. “It’s not rules; it’s about engaging people. Imagine the world if we build kinder etiquette and relationships. It changes the world.”
In today’s world, Fields thinks etiquette is something that’s missing. She feels etiquette is a social skill and, while technology is a great tool, if our faces and eyes are always on a phone, we lose social skills. “I think that there are so many opportunities to improve in our lives,” she said. “A text message is designed to be short, concise. Our communication should be returned right away. If you limit a relationship to text messages,
Fields, founder of I & I Etiquette and Profes-
Services, holds up her new book, ‘SHINE Etiquette Workbook.’ The interactive workbook is designed to equip children with timeless etiquette skills that build confidence and improve interpersonal and networking skills that will help them excel in all environments.
you’re not building a relationship.”
One of the challenges young people face in etiquette is that there are very few models. “There are few that they see executing these skills,” said Fields.
“They don’t have a blueprint to model the action.”
But sometimes lack of etiquette comes from lack of confidence. Fields said, “I worked with a young lady and her mom. She was very shy. Beautiful, bright, but very shy. She wasn’t confident. My goal is to build confidence. I do that through building their etiquette skills. She didn’t know how to go up to a friend. She started to invite children to activities. That was huge for me. She learned how to do continental dining at 8 years old. She could be confident in small talk, public speaking. She went from night to day. It was about building her confidence.”
It’s not just young people who need assurance. Fields spoke about college students who get very nervous. They graduate and then realize they have no networking skills. Fields teaches them not to stand against the wall, as if they are at a high school dance. After working with Fields, they became confident.
“It makes such a difference,” she said. To learn more about Nichole Fields and I & I Etiquette, visit: https:// iieaps.com/.
Photos Courtesy of Anthony of Legndzonly Photography Above, Nichole Fields teaches dining etiquette at a book release party at Boss Loft in Union. Below,
sional
Pilot program launched to fund career-defining student internships
Kean University’s new Professional Development Internship Fund pilot program will provide substantial financial support to help students secure and complete valuable internship experiences.
The groundbreaking initiative offers qualified students $2,500 stipends for unpaid internships, along with $250 supplemental grants to cover professional expenses such as transportation and business attire.
Following Board of Trustees approval on Saturday, Dec. 7, the program will launch in 2025 with an initial $200,000 investment.
“Internships are a vital bridge between academic learning and professional success,” said Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet. “This program underscores our commitment to equity by ensuring all students, regardless of their financial circumstances, have access to these foundational experiences. Removing barriers to internships helps our students prepare for a competitive job market and strengthens our inclusive community.”
To qualify for the program, students must have completed at least 60 credits, maintain a minimum gradepoint average of 2.8 and meet internship hour and duration requirements.
The comprehensive program extends beyond financial assistance, incorporating essential career development training through workshops on resume crafting, interview skills and internship success strategies. Participants will also collaborate with Kean alumni on promotional initiatives to help secure long-term donor support for the program.
“This initiative exemplifies Kean University’s forward-thinking approach to career preparation,” said Felice Vazquez, senior vice president for planning and special counsel to the president. “Many Kean students work at least one job during their time in college, so
taking an unpaid internship is very challenging. By launching this pilot program, we are empowering students to gain the real-world experiences they need to thrive in their chosen fields.”
The university will conduct rigorous evaluation of the program's impact on key metrics including student retention, career outcomes and post-graduation employment. This data will guide future program
refinements and potential expansion.
“Every element of this program is designed with the student experience in mind,” said John C. Raue, assistant vice president for strategic initiatives. “We are committed to evaluating how this pilot adds value to students’ academic and professional journeys, while continuously refining its approach to maximize impact.”
Photo Courtesy of Kean University
New Professional Development Internship Fund pilot program removes financial barriers and opens doors to essential real-world experiences for Kean University students.
A friendly debate regarding the actual location of the long-defunct ‘Union Speedway’ along Springfield Road, pictured above circa the 1930s, led to a chance yet serendipitous discovery of this 1941 map of the town-
Photos by David VanDeventer/UTHS
ship of Union. The document will now be on display with hundreds of other fascinating Union-themed relics inside the Union Township Historical Society’s Caldwell Parsonage Museum on Caldwell Avenue.
Rare map of Union donated to local historical society
By David VanDeventer Correspondent
UNION — The story begins with a recent and not-so-heated argument between two former Union High School classmates discussing the exact location of a fabled but long-forgotten local landmark known as the Union Speedway.
One insisted that, almost a century ago, the legendary racetrack was situated along Springfield Road on the southwestern corner of Union. The other was quite certain that the bygone speedway was just off of Springfield Avenue near Millburn. The question was simple: Was it actually on Springfield Avenue or Springfield Road?
Enter Mike Martin, another UHS schoolmate and mutual friend of the debating duo, who overheard the discussion. He was all too happy to reveal that he had physical proof providing the definitive answer they were both in search of... He was in possession of a very weathered 84-year-old map.
Back in 2000, Martin and his wife, Amy, purchased a lovely home on Yorktown Road in the Putnam Manor section of Union.
As Martin recalled, “The previous owner of our home was also the original owner; a contractor who had built many of the old Putnam Manor homes back in the 1940s. It was quaint and inviting, but the entire interior was like a time capsule back to that decade.”
On moving in, the Martins discovered a yellowing 22” x 26” township map that was hanging on the wall in a furnished attic space and decided to keep it out of sheer curiosity and for safekeeping.
The map was drafted back in 1941 by Grassmann & Kreh, a firm of civil engineers and surveyors based in Union and nearby Elizabeth and approved by Henry Kreh Jr., Union’s longtime official
Former Union resident Mike Martin has graciously gifted this rare 1941 map to the township’s historical society for future preservation.
township engineer at the time.
For a global perspective of just what was going in our nation that year, the third presidential term of Franklin D. Roosevelt would begin in late-January, ‘Citizen Kane’ and ‘The Maltese Falcon’ were premiering in movie theaters across the country, the unstoppable New York Yankees crushed the Brooklyn Dodgers in World Series action and America would be pulled into World War II after Japan’s
December sneak attacks on Pearl Harbor.
Locally, beloved Union Mayor F. Edward Biertuempfel was still in the infancy of his stunning 34 years of devoted service to the township that would ultimately end with his death in 1973. It’s an era that many older, lifelong Union residents still recall fondly as the township’s golden age.
The map captures a town at the crossroads that would soon transition from its
idyllic but hard-working farming past into a more developed commercial and residential blend. Greater observation of the map reveals various structures and areas that would soon disappear forever and give way to the unyielding juggernaut of mid-20th century progress.
One of the most obvious signs of change was the fresh inclusion of the then new east-to-west thoroughfare Route 29, better known to modern-day motorists as the bustling Route 22.
On solving the mystery of his bickering buddies – the speedway was, in fact, located at the intersection of Springfield Road and Milltown Road – the Martins decided it was finally time to part ways with their crumbling paper treasure.
“The map has been sitting on a shelf in our basement for decades and should be enjoyed by others now,” Martin said. A quick phone call was made and the map is on its way over to the township’s historical society next week.
Union Township Historical Society Vice President David Arminio was thrilled to hear of the map’s existence and is grateful for the Martin family’s generosity.
“I am going to have this unique piece of Union’s history professionally framed immediately so it can make its public debut at our upcoming celebration being held at BCB Bank,” said Arminio.
The Union branch of the BCB Bank, located in the heart of Union Center, will be partnering with the historical society to host a ‘Wine & Cheese Meet & Greet’ photo gallery-style exhibit on Wednesday, March 19, commencing at 5:30 p.m. It’s an ideal way to join with many like-minded history buffs and to reminisce about the past, present and future of the township.
For additional information, to become a member or to donate an historical Union-themed artifact of your own, go to unionnjhistory.com.
‘A Celebration of Black Music’ is featured at library
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
“A Celebration of Black Music” was recently presented by Ed Alstrom at Vauxhall Branch Library. Alstrom is an American musician best known for being the stadium organist for the New York Yankees.
The Montville resident has performed with Chuck Berry, Leonard Bernstein, Bette Midler, Herbie Hancock and Steely Dan. He is in a trio called Acid Cabaret, which formed in 1997. He won a Back Stage Bistro Award for Singer/Songwriter/Instrumentalist in 2003 for his work with them. He’s also worked in radio.
Alstrom described himself as an obsessive fan of Black music, “growing up with Motown and soul music, funk and R&B, and wanting to know more.”
The Vauxhall Branch Library decided on an eclectic selection of programs to celebrate Black History Month. Gabriel Ramos, Vauxhall Branch manager, said, “We reached out to Ed. He not only is the weekend organist at Yankee Stadium, but he’s also an expert in music. I thought he’d be a perfect fit for honoring the contributions of African Americans in music.”
Alstrom gave an hour-long presentation, diving into African American artists and the overall impact they had on gospel, the blues, jazz, R&B, soul, funk, hip-hop and reggae. During the presentation, audience members were treated to snippets of songs from various artists, as well as a history lesson.
Joseph Bologne was a Black classical musician who lived from 1745 to 1799. He was the illegitimate son of an African slave and a French plantation owner.
Louis Vasner’s “Thompson’s Old Gray Mule,” was the first recording of country music in 1891.
Alstrom said that country music became overly white and Ray Charles reinvented country music in 1962.
“The blues were invented by slaves who spoke of their problems,” said Alstrom.
Robert Johnson was one of the “Giants of the Blues.” In the 1920s, he was a mediocre musician who allegedly went to a local crossroads and made a deal with Satan and became the greatest blues musician. “The story persists,” said Alstrom. “Nobody debunked it.”
Alstrom spoke of the “Golden Age of Gospel,” which was from the late 1930s to the early 1960s. Thomas A. Dorsey started out as a blues musician and had a revelation. He swore off blues and wrote 3,000 gospel songs. “Early gospel was just preachers doing their thing,” said Alstrom.
Sister Rosetta Tharpe released both gospel music and big hit secular music. “Elvis Presley idolized her,” said Alstrom.
Sam Cook was the lead singer for a gospel group called Soul Stirrers in the 1930s. In 1956, he crossed over to the pop world with his hit, “You Send Me.”
Alstrom said, “He got booed at gospel conventions, viewed as a traitor.”
Spirit of Memphis Quartet shined during the Golden Age of Quartets. They were six guys who sang without instruments.
Jazz, which was heavily influenced by ragtime and blues ,was all about improvising, Alstrom explained. “No one is telling them what to place.”
Louis Armstrong was the first famous great jazz musician. “Nobody could lead a band like he could,” said Alstrom. “He had hit records every decade, from the 1920s to the 1960s, when he died. ‘Hello Dolly’ knocked The Beatles out of the No. 1 slot in 1964.”
Duke Ellington composed more than 1,500 original songs and instrumental pieces.
Charlie Parker invented “bebop” and Miles Davies was the founder of “cool jazz.”
Glenn Miller was a white musician famous for his song “In the Mood,” which he played with his all-white band. In 1937, Benny Goodman integrated music. His famous quartet was made up of two Black musicians and two white musicians.
John Coltrane turned “My Favorite Things” from “The Sound of Music” into a 13-minute musical extravaganza. “It’s simply magnificent,” said Alstrom.
The library audience made up a full house – every seat was filled. To learn more about Alstrom, visit: https://www.edalstrom.com/
For upcoming programs at the Vauxhall Branch Library and the Main Library, visit: https://uplnj.org/.
Musician Ed Alstrom, inset, presents ‘A Celebration of Black Music’ at Vauxhall Branch Library recently. Alstrom is an American musician best known for being the stadium organist for the New York Yankees. Below, John Lee Hooker’s single ‘Boom Boom’ was just one of the many songs featured during the presentation.
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Union native appointed vice principal of BCTS
Bergen County Technical Schools has announced the appointment of Christopher Capodice Sr. as vice principal, effective Monday, Dec. 16. The appointment was approved by the Board of Education on Tuesday, Dec. 10. With 25 years of experience in education and leadership, Capodice is renowned for his commitment to fostering innovation, inclusivity and student success.
A native of Union, Capodice graduated from Union High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from William Paterson University. He later completed a master’s degree in educational leadership from Walden University and is currently pursuing a second master’s degree in special education at William Paterson University. His extensive credentials include New Jersey certifications as a superintendent, principal, supervisor and cooperative education coordinator.
Since 2016, Capodice has served as supervisor of instruction at Bergen County Technical High School in Paramus, where he oversaw a variety of academic and vocational programs. During his tenure, he launched a work-based learning program with a 100% job placement rate in trade areas, established a Summer CTE Enrichment Program for more than 200 students and expanded technical certification opportunities to enhance career readiness.
His efforts have significantly supported Bergen Tech’s 11 technical trade programs, which prepare students for competitive salaries, benefits and continued education.
Capodice has shown exceptional dedication to supporting students with Individualized Education Plans, who represent 50% of Bergen Tech’s population. Through his leadership, the school has
embraced an inclusive approach, ensuring the needs of all students are central to its decision-making processes. His contributions to education have earned him national accolades, including the Commitment to Career and Technical Education Award from the Association of Career and Technical Education in 2016 and the Good Scout Award from the Boy Scouts of America in 2020. Capodice is also an active member of professional organizations, such as the New Jersey Education Association and the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association. He has served as president of the Union Township Education Association, which recognized him for his exceptional service in 2016, and as a delegate assembly member for the NJEA and the National Education Association.
Superintendent Howard Lerner
praised Capodice’s appointment, saying, “I am very excited to promote Chris Capodice to the position of vice principal for the Bergen County Technical Schools. His enthusiasm, leadership and commitment to the success of our students have been nothing short of remarkable. I am confident that he will continue to make a significant impact on the educational community in his new role.”
Expressing his gratitude, Capodice said, “As vice principal, I am committed to advancing Bergen County Technical Schools’ mission of providing innovative, inclusive and rigorous education. I am truly grateful and blessed for this opportunity and look forward to collaborating with faculty, students and the broader community to create a supportive and thriving learning environment.”
Christopher Capodice Sr.
Kean adds women’s and men’s wrestling to its roster of NCAA Sports
Kean University is expanding its athletic offerings by adding men’s and women’s wrestling to the university’s diverse roster of NCAA sports beginning in fall 2025.
With the addition of the two wrestling programs – a new women's team and the reestablished men’s team – the university will field a total of 22 NCAA athletic teams, plus varsity eSports.
“It is a special time for Kean Athletics, as we make history by adding women’s wrestling to our department, creating another opportunity for young women to follow their passion on the collegiate level,” said Kelly Williams, director of Athletics and Recreation. “At the same time, we’re reestablishing our men’s wrestling program. This marks the continued expansion of sports offerings, reinforcing the university's commitment to diverse athletic opportunities for student-athletes.”
Kean discontinued a previous men’s wrestling program nearly 30 years ago. University officials decided to add wrestling for the 2025-2026 season because of growing interest both on campus and statewide. Women’s wrestling has been on the rise at the college level and is also an Olympic and high school sport. NCAA members approved making it a championship sport at a convention earlier this month.
Coach Chris DiSanto, a Kean alumnus
who has worked as men’s head wrestling coach at Bergen Community College since 2013, will lead the newest Kean Cougar teams.
“I am excited to hire coach DiSanto to lead both wrestling programs. He brings tremendous college coaching experience and a tireless work ethic that will lead our wrestling programs to success in competition and the classroom,” Williams said.
DiSanto graduated from Kean in 2005 with a bachelor’s degree in sociology. He also has a master’s degree in online learning and educational technology. He said he is “thrilled and honored” to return to his alma mater as head wrestling coach.
“I have years of experience at the college level and I will bring the same passion and unwavering support to this team,” said DiSanto, who came to Kean as a transfer student from Bergen Community College.
“I remember my first year at Kean. They did not have a wrestling team then, but there was a room with wrestling mats on the floor. A bunch of my fraternity brothers and I would wrestle around for hours to practice our skills,” he recalled.
“Having a wrestling program return to campus is exactly what Kean has been missing. I can’t wait to bring excitement, passion and creativity to the wrestling mats at Kean University.”
Photo Courtesy of Kean University
Coach Chris DiSanto, a Kean University alumnus, will lead the Cougars’ newest programs, women’s and men’s wrestling, this fall.
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
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
Joe Covino was living a great life. He was living in Union, happily married. He and his wife, Lucy, loved to eat and loved to travel. He also worked for NJ Organ and Tissue Transplant Network, which he found super ironic. “My whole life has been in clinical research,” he said. “I wound up needing a liver transplant.”
Covino explained that people must think he had been an alcoholic. But he had a rare autoimmune disease called primary sclerosing cholangitis that attacks the bile ducts and ultimately leads to liver failure.
When he was first diagnosed in 2015, he became yellow, which is called jaundice. “I was itching. You are itching all over your body. You lose weight. You can’t sleep. You can’t eat.”
Originally, he was told he had a reaction to a drug he was taking to control cholesterol. “That was a misdiagnosis,” he said.
It was Dr. Scott Digiacomo at Digiacomo Medical Associates, in Union, which got Covino in the right direction, suggesting he may have PSC. “It was him that encouraged me to go on the liver transplant list,” Covino said.
He then tried a new drug for the itching, and it worked. But he still had a poor quality of life. “I’d get really tired. Bad fevers and chills. I didn’t have a high enough score to get listed for a liver transplant.
Last year, Covino celebrated his 60th birthday in Paris with his twin sister. He became confused and started drooling. “My brain wasn’t getting enough salt because of my liver,” he said. “You need a liver to live a healthy life. I really fell apart.”
He had to take an emergency flight home.
“I’m Roman Catholic and I believe in miracles,” Covino said.
Within a month, a woman in Pennsylvania died and donated all her organs. “I got her liver,” he said. “It was just amazing. I am so grateful to people who donate. This woman saved my life.”
The 10-hour surgery at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City in November gave Covino a life. “People don’t get a second chance at life like I did,” he said. “It’s amazing. I got to celebrate Christmas with my twin sister. That could have been the Christmas I never had. My dad is 94. I’m getting to spend time with my dad when he really needs me.”
Being chronically ill for so long, it became Covino’s “norm.” He said, “Now that I have a new liver, I forgot what it was like to feel healthy. To truly live you have to be healthy.”
Covino and his wife, Lucy, a nurse at Hackensack University Medical Center, are looking forward to traveling again and making new memories. Covino also hopes to connect with his donor’s family one day, to express his heartfelt gratitude directly. For now, he’s focused on sharing his story to raise awareness and encourage others to register as organ and tissue donors.
To learn more about organ donation, get involved and join the National Donate Life Registry, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
UNIONLEADER
Photo Courtesy
Winter Wonderland comes to Bierteumpfel Park
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
Union residents were literally walking in a winter wonderland earlier this season.
The annual Winter Wonderland Weekend and Holiday Village took place at Bierteumpfel Park. The wonderland featured an “ice” skating rink, strolling characters and carolers, more than 60 holiday vendors, inflatables, a trackless train, Santa’s Workshop, a gingerbread house and cookie demo, live entertainment, food trucks, Santa, a marionette show, photo booths, a live nativity and much more.
Musical act Pop Goes the Holidays got the crowd in the mood for Christmas. They were the first performers on the main stage, singing songs such as “Last Christmas” and “Run Run Rudolph,” as well as pop songs. Other acts throughout the weekend included performances by Union High School Dance Team, Union Theater, Gil Lorenzo’s Orchestra, Eric Mintel Jazz Quartet, Danielle Illario and Band, M.A.D.E. Stars, Light Cube and Fire Dancer, as well as local school choirs.
There was also the tree lighting and a Reindeer Dance Party.
Inside the Gingerbread House was a puppeteer, along with Mrs. Santa Claus giving a cookie decorating demonstration. Volunteer Valeria Condo was helping Mrs. Claus. She said, “I love volunteering and giving back to the community. There’s great music. Everyone’s having a good time. Everybody comes together. Student volunteers make the holiday more special.”
Puppets that looked like gifts were called Gifts of Laughter. They told funny jokes about winter and Christmas, such as:
“What falls in the winter but doesn’t get hurt?”
“Snow!”
Sophia, 17, was also a volunteer. She said, “It’s about helping others without wanting something.” She added that her favorite part of the Winter Wonderland was the S’mores.
Jay, 15, was one of the vendors. He was selling crocheted goods and calls his business Crochet by Jay. He said he learned how to crochet when he was 13, during lock down.
Andy Lewis and Emma Qi of Naturah were selling homemade toys and watercolor kits. “Perfect for the holiday,” said Qi.
The Union Township Historical Society had a vendor table. President Barbara LaMort said, “We get to see so many people from Union and visitors enjoying the Winter Wonderland.”
Author and publisher Michelle Nelson of House of Walker was selling her books and greeting cards. She thought the Win-
Above left, a puppeteer performs a puppet show inside the Gingerbread House at the annual Winter Wonderland Weekend and Holiday Village at Bierteumpfel Park. Above center, Crochet by Jay was one of the many vendors present. Jay, 15, said he learned how to crochet when he was 13, during lockdown. Above right, at the Union Township Historical Society’s vendor table are, from left, Frank Lawrence, trustee; Barbara LaMort, president; and Dennis LaMort, treasurer. Below left, Michelle Nelson of House of Walker Publishing sells books and greeting cards at the event this past weekend. Below right, a snow globe is featured at the event.
ter Wonderland was beautiful. She said, “I can’t believe the set up! I met so many different people.”
Rose Jean, of Union, was there with her 9-year-old daughter, Gabriella. She
said, “I’m having fun. I’m really happy to be here.”
Gabriella said she was loving the music and the bouncy houses. Miranda Hood, of Union, and her 9year-old daughter, Madelyn, were roasting S’mores. “We moved from Texas,” she said. “We’re loving New Jersey. We love the community. Winter’s great. It’s so hot in Houston.”
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Study to examine literacy and learning loss among elementary students
Kean University signed an agreement last week with New Jersey officials to facilitate a study of literacy and learning loss among elementary students as lawmakers work to improve educational outcomes for children statewide.
Gov. Phil Murphy last week signed into law two pieces of legislation to bolster literary education across the state.
In this initiative, Kean, the state’s urban research university, will provide a learning and literacy loss consultant to the New Jersey Department of Education to analyze data, coordinate policy and implement best practices to improve students’ literacy outcomes.
“Nothing is more important to a young student’s educational outcome than their literacy skills, and Kean University is committed to supporting all young people on their path to success,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet. “We look forward to working with the NJDOE on this critical research and policy initiative.”
Murphy described literary education as “the foundation upon which all future learning is built.”
“Recent years have brought forth many challenges for our schools and our children,” Murphy said in a news release.
“Understanding that strong reading skills have the potential to open countless doors for young learners, we must work together to support accelerated literacy learning in communities across the state.”
Kean’s objective will be to help create a
permanent NJDOE workstream to enhance NJDOE's capacity to improve elementary literacy and mitigate learning loss across New Jersey schools.
Kean’s College of Education is a leading producer of teachers in New Jersey and its faculty frequently conduct research on pedagogy and curriculum.
Sancha Gray, acting dean of Kean’s College of Education and senior vice president for entrepreneurial education initiatives, said K-12 schools have faced challenges in recent years due to learning loss.
“As the state’s urban research university, Kean prioritizes its role in supporting this kind of critical research and policy work,” Gray said. “We want to help New Jersey educators provide the best possible education to students, especially those who come from marginalized communities and face additional barriers to success.”
According to the memo of understanding signed by Repollet and NJDOE Acting Commissioner Kevin Dehmer, the consultant will identify and compile state-collected data relevant to literacy and make policy recommendations.
Kean’s consultant will also engage with school districts and stakeholders to understand local needs and develop strategies for implementing best practices in the state’s schools.
“Student literacy, especially for our youngest learners, is both fundamental to all student learning and a core element to bridging achievement and opportunity
gaps,” Dehmer said in the release. “These new initiatives, when coupled with our other programs to foster literacy, such as high-impact tutoring for students and existing professional development for teachers, can help students build those foundational skills that are so crucial to learning. These combined efforts will have lasting benefits for generations of students.”
The state’s initiative relies on evidencebased strategies, data-driven decisions, a coordination of resources, and research to create effective literacy strategies and promote learning equity.
“This is a forward-looking package of educational enhancement bills that will help rectify pandemic-related learning
loss, close the achievement gap and improve literacy rates for our students,” Senate President Nick Scutari said in the release. “The literacy instruction and intervention programs will be especially important for students who have experienced academic disparities. They will help advance educational equity in New Jersey’s schools.”
It is a package of bills that serves every community in New Jersey, said Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin.
“When every child in our state has greater opportunity to succeed, we all benefit,” Coughlin said in the release. “These laws will ensure more strategic use of resources for our best-in-the-nation public schools.”
GIRL SCOUT WEEK GIRL SCOUT WEEK
March 9-15, 2025
Girl Scout Week, the week of Girl Scouts’ birthday on March 12, is a great time to celebrate with faith communities to share about Girl Scouts and its benefits, thank faith partners for their support and give girls the opportunity to be recognized in their places of worship.
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Blue Foundry Charitable Foundation funds playwriting residency
Premiere Stages, the professional theater company in residence at Kean University, returned to the Elizabeth School District this fall with a playwriting residency at Terence C. Reilly School No. 7, graciously funded by the Blue Foundry Charitable Foundation.
Through the course of six weeks, seventh-grade students at Terence C. Reilly School No. 7 learned the basics of playwriting and worked collaboratively to write original short plays for the stage. Premiere Stages teaching artist Peter Fenton centered the residency around the current curriculum, Greek mythology, as a launching pad to explore playwriting and timeless connections from ancient literature and contemporary experiences.
“Premiere Stages is thrilled to return to Terence C Reilly Gifted and Talented School No. 7 to support the students in their exploration of Greek mythology. Through the arts, we are eager to see how these talented students make connections between the ancient and modern world to share timeless lessons,” said Premiere Stages Play Festival and Education Manager Nick Gandiello.
The residency culminated in a school wide assembly on Friday, Dec. 20, of the student-written monologues and scenes, performed by professional actors Sarah Cuneo, Jessica DeLuca, Adrian Espinal and Christopher Grant.
Premiere Stages’ education programs,
under the umbrella of the Premiere Play Factory, have introduced theater to thousands of children across New Jersey, particularly those children in underserved
and underfunded school districts. Through playwriting residencies, Play Factory Performance Series of professional theater for young audiences and Camp Premiere for middle and high school students, Premiere Stages introduce students to theater with an eye toward increasing literacy, supporting English language learners, modeling the collaborative process and encouraging self-expression. Premiere Stages works closely with the Kean University Foundation to secure funding for Play Factory initiatives and was instrumental in securing funds from Blue Foundry Charitable Foundation.
“Blue Foundry Charitable Foundation is dedicated to making an impact within local communities by supporting nonprofit organizations and Premiere Stages at Kean University is a perfect example of our mission in action,” said Jim Nesci, CEO of Blue Foundry Bancorp.
“Together, we are able to create meaningful opportunities for students by empowering them with the tools and support needed to succeed. The Premiere Stages program reflects the Foundation's core values by ensuring that education remains a cornerstone for positive, lasting change.”
Photo Courtesy of Nicole Mehl
From left are the students in Bill Culp’s class who participated in the residency; Peter Fenton, residency teaching artist; Nick Gandiello, Education and Play Festival manager of Premiere Stages; Peggy Letsche, chairperson of the Blue Foundry Charitable Foundation Grant Committee; and Culp, a teacher at Terence C. Reilly School No. 7.
Company adds senior business development manager to Union office
Arrow Security has announced the addition of John Hynes as the company’s senior business development manager for its New Jersey regional office in Union.
Hynes is responsible for growing the business and forming strategic partnerships in the security industry within the New Jersey metropolitan area. Hynes brings to the position 30 years of military, law enforcement and security guarding that, along with his business development skills and ability to drive growth and establish relationships, will serve him well in this role and will further deepen the quality of service that Arrow Security can provide to clients in the region.
In this new role, Hynes will expand Arrow’s presence in educational buildings, commercial and corporate real estate as well as financial institutions in the Jersey City and Hoboken areas, the healthcare industry around Hackensack, transportation and logistics in ports and airports at and around Newark, and the hospitality and tourism industry in Atlantic City.
Prior to Arrow Security, Hynes served as vice president of Northeast
Operations and Business Development with Brosnan Risk Consultants. In this capacity, he oversaw day-to-day operations to ensure efficiency and drive constant improvement, developed and implemented strategic initiatives to cap-
ture new business opportunities and increase revenue, and mentored and empowered team members to excel in sales techniques and customer relationship management.
He also served as New York Metro District manager and account manager, New York City.
For more than 20 years, Hynes was a New York City Police Department police officer and sergeant. In addition to supervising a team of police officers and ensuring the safety and security of the greater New York City area, Hynes implemented strategic initiatives to improve community relations and reduce crime rates, always going above and beyond the call of duty.
Hynes served as a corporal in the U.S. Marine Corp Reserve, where he supervised Marines in building and maintaining secure military networks, and received numerous accolades, including the National Defense and Good Conduct Medals. He was honorably discharged in 2000.
In addition to being involved with the NYPD Honor Legion, Hynes is affiliated with the New York State Shields, a fraternal organization comprised of active
UNION AREA MARKETPLACE
and retired law enforcement officers whose mission is to honor the memories of officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, and recognize active officers who have performed heroic acts of bravery and outstanding work to foster positive relations among the various law enforcement agencies that serve and protect our communities.
Hynes is a member of the National Law Enforcement Associates, a nonprofit organization formed to conduct training and provide other educational opportunities while facilitating cooperation among its members in the law enforcement and private security communities.
Hynes is also a member of the ASIS Northern New Jersey Chapter, serving security professionals in the region, and locally, is a member of the Elks Club.
“John has a 30-year proven track record of driving results in the rapidly evolving security industry,” said AJ Caro, CEO of Arrow Security.
“John is the perfect choice to spearhead new business opportunities, build strong relationships and drive growth in the security industry. We are excited to have him join Arrow.”
Photo Courtesy of Jason Zove John Hynes
University joins prestigious research portal, fostering
Kean University has joined the ResearchwithNJ community portal, raising visibility of the growing research activities and facilities at New Jersey’s urban research university.
The ResearchwithNJ portal was developed by the New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology to spark collaboration between New Jersey’s research institutions and the wider community of businesses and entrepreneurs.
Created with Elsevier, a scientific publishing company based in Amsterdam, the site features New Jersey’s eight leading research institutions in a centralized space that allows businesses and entrepreneurs to access information about research and researchers. It also fosters collaboration among faculty members.
“Joining the ResearchwithNJ portal is an exciting step for Kean as a research university,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet. “Inclusion in this platform enhances the visibility of our university, our faculty and their academic and research activities. This is another way of showing the world the incredible work being done at Kean and our University’s unlimited potential.”
The initial Kean cohort includes 183 faculty conducting research in STEM and social science fields, and pulls together repository data resources such as publications, grants and information about collaborations around the world.
Kean University Associate Provost for Science and Technology Keith Bostian, who is also CEO of the Kean-based Institute for Life Science Entrepreneurship, said the website will expand the reach of Kean’s research.
“Kean University faculty are eager to expand their research capacity and projects, and the opportunity to promote their academic work and intellectual property will support this effort,” Bostian said. “This has the potential to attract collaborations and partnerships that might not have been possible otherwise, while also extending the reach and impact of their research into new and previously inaccessible networks.”
Kean researchers will be able to expand their work's reach and impact by connecting with business partners and academic colleagues through ResearchwithNJ, a portal developed by the New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology.
Each Kean researcher included on the platform can access and personalize their own profile.
Further instructions for faculty regarding engagement with the portal will be posted in the coming days and weeks.
The research topics on the ResearchwithNJ site are aligned along the 17 U.N. Sustainable Goals, including good health and well-being; affordable and clean energy; and climate action.
Bostian said there are plans to expand Kean’s list of researchers beyond the initial 183 faculty members. Kean administrators are currently testing the website and will evaluate the results, he said.
Kean’s site is managed by Bostian and Associate Dean for Research Derrick Swinton, of The Dorothy and George Hen-
nings College of Science, Mathematics and Technology. The portal also benefits Kean student researchers.
“Students gain valuable experience by collaborating with their faculty mentors on research projects,” Swinton said. “Publishing their work on the research portal will give them a credible reference to highlight in their applications to graduate and professional schools. It will also provide a resource to see how their research is connected to the larger research enterprise and enable them to decide which research areas to pursue as they navigate their future careers.”
The portal also furthers the goals of the recently established Kean Office of Science and Technology and Office of Technology Commercialization. The objectives
of the offices include supporting the University’s research and development efforts and fostering collaboration with businesses and entrepreneurs.
Kean is working toward designation as an R2 research university by the Carnegie Commission.
Judith Sheft, executive director of the CSIT, said the organization’s ties to both the startup community and the state’s academic institutions make management of the portal a natural fit.
“We anticipate this expansion of ResearchwithNJ, combined with our ongoing efforts to expand outreach to emerging companies and academic professionals, will help strengthen connections between New Jersey’s research universities and the industry,” she said.
Photo Courtesy of Kean University
Certificate in Workforce Readiness launched
Kean University is furthering its role as a regional anchor institution with the launch of the Certificate in Workforce Readiness, a pilot program designed to equip families of students in the university’s pre-college initiatives with skills and resources for career advancement and economic empowerment.
The CWR program, part of Kean’s innovative Generation 2 Generation Family University, offers parents and caregivers free classes in resume writing, interviewing strategies and other skills that will enable them to succeed in the job market. The first class began in November.
“The Certificate in Workforce Readiness program empowers parents and caregivers to develop essential career skills, all while their children thrive in Kean’s pre-college programs,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet. “At Kean University, we are bridging generations to create lasting opportunities that strengthen families and uplift communities, building a legacy of success together.”
The G2G Family University began in early 2024 in a partnership between Kean’s John S. Watson Institute for Urban Policy and Research and the University’s Division of Entrepreneurial Education Initiatives. The program received $1 million in federal funding for its first two years.
The CWR program works in tandem with Kean programs that are teaching college readiness skills to students from underserved backgrounds. The pre-college programs include the Kean Scholar Academy, Project Adelante, High School Partnerships, Upward Bound and various summer programs.
“Investing in the Certificate in Workforce Readiness program for parents as part of Kean’s two-generation strategy is a game-changer,” said Joseph Youngblood II, senior vice president for transformational learning and external affairs at Kean. “It creates a ripple effect of positive change within families. This holistic approach to family development breaks cycles of poverty, fosters social mobility and strengthens the entire community.”
The CWR program, when fully operational, will offer a nine-credit-hour certificate focused on career preparation, interpersonal communication and the fundamentals of computers.
Kean Senior Vice President of Entrepreneurial Education Initiatives Sancha Gray said participants will have the opportunity to build a solid foundation for success through the CWR program.
