Union Leader - May 2025

UNIONLEADER UNIONNEWSDAILY.COM

Motown in Vauxhall

— See Page 2

He won’t back down

— See Page 8

You, me and a cup of tea

— See Page 12

VOL. 10 NO. 02

MAY 2025

Lamenting the eventual loss of a landmark Public is left feeling ‘shocked, saddened, upset’ over news of demolition

By David VanDeventer Historical Correspondent What seemed at first to many county residents to just be an elaborate but unpleasant April Fools Day joke has turned out to be harsh reality. News of the as-yet-unscheduled demolition of Union’s “World’s Tallest Water Sphere” has kicked open a floodgate of wide-ranging emotions to those who feel that the longstanding township landmark deserves a kinder fate than destruction.

During a late-March Union Board of Adjustment presentation, plans were announced for the impending removal of the 212-foot-tall structure that has towered over Kawameeh Swamp since 1964.

An attorney for CX Towers telecommunications company said they were recently informed by the water sphere’s owner, New Jersey American Water, that it would be decommissioned and taken down at a later date. CX Towers will remove equipment from the fading blue monolith and install a new monopole that will support antennas for T-Mobile, AT&T and Verizon. It is projected that no loss or disruption of service for those providers’ customers will be experienced during the transition.

It is important to note that the water sphere has always been privately owned and NJAW has had tentative plans to dismantle the dormant and obsolete monolith since 2019. It is equally important to acknowledge that the current township leaders and policymakers are under no obligation or have any responsibility for “rescuing” the aging landmark.

Having said that, thousands of current and former Union township and county residents feel quite differently, having a strong personal attachment to the silent sentinel that has kept aroundthe-clock watch over Union for generations. Situated on 23 acres of mostly marshlands that somehow simultaneously borders the Garden State Parkway, Route 22 and Morris Avenue, the water sphere has greeted millions of motorists from around the world for more than 61 years and is a striking visual focal point for weary travelers who are just trying to get home.

Its close proximity to these three bustling roadways all but assures that the method of removal will be a slow, systematic dismantling as opposed to a

Photo by David VanDeventer

After more than six decades of welcoming home locals and greeting millions of Garden State Parkway motorists, Union’s ‘World’s Tallest Water Sphere’ may eventually become just another iconic landmark relegated to the dustbins of New Jersey lore and fond memories. controlled yet explosive demolition.

The initial consensus of public reaction to the breaking news was one of sadness, with hundreds taking to social media platforms and Union-themed sites to vent their disappointment, frustration and, in many cases, outright anger regarding the potential loss of yet another proud part of Union’s past. For the sake of continuity within this feature, the terms ‘water sphere’ and ‘tower’ will be interchangeable. Now here’s a random cross-section of what many current and former county residents have had to say about the impending demolition: Iris Alexis Alvarez: Finally something that I would protest about... Save the tower!

Mike Camb: This is absolutely

ridiculous! That water sphere is iconic and should be considered an historical landmark. I hope enough people in our town get together and convince our town to try and save this tower from being removed from Union’s history.

Steve Siracusa: My uncle worked on making the water sphere. He was a welder and I will never forget uncle Jim telling us how he welded this.

Frank Verducci: I hope they can at least preserve the top part; maybe move it to a local park for viewing.

Hugo Mills: The younger generation does not seem to have any sentimental view of things that others cherish!

Joan Agosta Constanza: No! No! No!!

Sheila Biank: This makes me so sad.

Debby Coben Knobelman: It probably is structurally unsound and far too expensive to fix at this point.

Darin Venable: Is there anything that we can all sign to stop this from happening?

Michael Muscavage: We climbed up inside of it many years ago!

Denise Romeo: Save the tower!

Jason LePee: What a bummer! It always made me feel very proud to be from Union.

Patricia Murphy Bregen: This is too sad. It’s the end of an icon and feels like the end of an era!

Mariks Hall: Nothing ever stays the same. I would not like to go back to my childhood hometown to find that everything has changed and feeling like all my memories are all gone.

Harlee Hantman Powanda: Isn’t there any way to stop the demolition?

Maybe start a petition?

Mike Paserchia: I grew up in Union back in the 1970s and 1980s. We used to party under that tower and fish off the catwalks for turtles back there. Those were such great times, but this is the last of old Union.

Eileen Matthews Allison: Save the Tower!

Midge Tosun Polloni: The water sphere was how we knew, when we were little, that we were almost home. This is sad!

Greg Roser: I am all for preserving history, but the water sphere is not exactly a thing of beauty, folks.

Sharon Barker: Is there any way it See UNION, Page 9

2 — May 2025 — Union Leader

Rhonda Denet presents Ladies of Motown at Vauxhall Branch

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent Rhonda Denet brought the musical magic of Motown to Vauxhall Branch Library recently. She also told a history lesson about the Motown label, focusing on the ladies who made it all happen.

She told the audience these ladies were “the ones who put the Motown label on the map.”

Denet’s angelic voice and dynamic charisma kept the audience entertained for a full hour as she sang hit after hit.

Opening the show, she performed “Please Mr. Postman,” by The Marvelettes, who were active on the Motown label from 1960 to 1970.

Next was “My Guy,” a 1964 hit single

by Mary Wells, written and produced by Smokey Robinson, of The Miracles. It became a No. 1 single.

“Dancing in the Street,” originally performed by Martha and the Vandellas, was a huge hit in the summer of ’64. “Some thought it was a call to march in the streets,” said Denet, explaining that a lot was going on at the time.

She performed “Every Little Bit Hurts,” a 1964 hit single by soul singer Brenda Holloway. And then on to The Supremes, who had 13 No. 1 hits, with 12 of them being about heartache.

Denet said, “I like to bring joy wherever I go. These are happy heartbreak songs.

I can do that.” The Supremes were on the

Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

Above left, Rhonda Denet belts out ‘Please Mr. Postman,’ by The Marvelettes, during her performance of Motown classics at Vauxhall Branch Library recently. Above center, Denet brings the magic of Motown. Above right, Vauxhall Branch Library Manager Gabriel Ramos poses with Denet, during one of her recent visits to the library.

Motown label from 1961 to 1977, and they got started as The Primettes.

“They enjoyed singing together, but didn’t have a hit,” said Denet.

Motown’s main songwriting and production team, Holland-Dozier-Holland gave them their hit, “Where Did Our Love Go,” which reached No. 1 in the US charts. The same team wrote “You Can’t Hurry Love,” which Denet performed.

Also written by Holland-Dozier-Holland was “Take Me in Your Arms,” recorded first by Kim Weston in 1965, which

Denet performed. It was later recorded by the Isley Brothers in 1968, Blood, Sweat & Tears in 1971, Jermaine Jackson in 1972 and the Doobie Brothers in 1975.

Next was the 1967 hit single recorded

by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” The song was written by Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpon.

“It was magic,” said Denet.

Gladys Knight & the Pips were a group of cousins active on the Motown label from 1966 to 1973.

They had several No. 1s and Denet

chose to sing, “Neither One of Us (Wants to Be the First to Say Goodbye),” originally released in December 1972.

The show concluded with Denet delivering a powerful performance of “Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand),” by Diana Ross, which peaked at No. 7 on Billboard’s R&B Singles Chart in 1970.

Denet is based in Newark and makes a full-time living doing what she loves as a jazz/soul vocalist, songwriter and bandleader.

To learn more about Denet, visit: https://rhondadenetmusic.com/.

Union Leader — May 2025 — 3

Union takes part in American Revolution 250th Anniversary kickoff Awareness Walk

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent More than 100 locals came out to celebrate at Nomahegan Park in Cranford.

Union County Board of Commissioners presented the American Revolution 250th Anniversary Union County Kickoff Awareness Walk on Saturday, April 19. The day’s events featured elected officials, American Revolutionary War soldier re-enactors, local history sites, music, games and family fun.

There were also display panels, which explained how the American Revolution was connected to Union County; and how the American Revolution affected Black lives.

An Awareness Walk was also hosted to officially launch the commemoration.

The event recognized the anniversary of the Battle of Lexington and Concord, known as the “Shot Heard ’Round the World,” which marked the start of the American Revolution.

Also, as part of this multiyear celebration, Union County unveiled its official 250th Anniversary Logo, which will be featured throughout the county on banners, promotional materials and digital platforms. Additionally, a countywide event calendar has been created, allowing municipalities and authorized organizations to submit their commemorative programs for approval and inclusion.

Longtime Union County Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Union County Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded and Union County Commissioner Rebecca L. Williams were in attendance.

Mark Hurwitz, of the Third NJ Regiment, said, “History happened here in Union County: The Battle of Short Hills, the Battle of Connecticut Farms and the Battle of Springfield.”

The American Revolution is very significant to Pastor Chris Iosso of Connecticut Farms Presbyterian Church in Union. He said, “Because of the politics of our time, it’s important now – democracy and accountability.”

The Union County Kickoff was only the beginning. Many organizations in Union County are anticipating the 250th anniversary.

Jeff Pistol, co-chairperson of the 250 Revolution NJ Committee, said they are planning a 250th anniversary celebration of the founding of the United States.

“We plan to have a parade on or about July 4, 2026.”

Shirley Maxwell, of Oswald J. Nitsche House in Kenilworth, which is part of the National Register of Historic Places, said they will be celebrating the 250th

Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

Above left, John Prescott, History Programs coordinator, stands beside a banner discussing the role of Blacks in the American Revolution, on display at the American Revolution 250th Anniversary Union County Kickoff Awareness Walk at Nomahegan Park in Cranford on Saturday, April 19. Above center, Cathy Thek, curator of Osborn Cannonball House, an historical landmark in Scotch Plains, was there to take part in the event. Above right, Mark Hurwitz, Third NJ Regimen, looks as if he is ready to fight once again the Battle of Short Hills, the Battle of Connecticut Farms and the Battle of Springfield, all of which happened in Union County. Below left, Arlene Soong, hearth cook at Miller-Corey House Museum, Westfield, built in 1740 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972, shares some history with those in attendance at the event. Below center, Linda Jurczak, president of the Springfield Historical Society, is ready to educate attendees about the key role Springfield played in the American Revolution. Below right, Jeff Pistol, co-chairperson of the 250 Revolution NJ Committee, said they are planning a 250th anniversary celebration of the founding of the United States. ‘We plan to have a parade on or about July 4, 2026.’

anniversary of Union County, too.

Rachel Goldberg, executive director of Liberty Hall Museum in Union, said, “We’re gearing up for 250, like everyone else.”

To submit an event taking place in Union County that relates to the United States Semiquincentennial, commemorating and leading up to the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of

Independence on July 4, 2026, visit https://ucnj.org/250-events/. Events may pertain to history before, during or after 1776.

For more photos, see Page 4

4 — May 2025 — Union Leader

Union County celebrates its 250th anniversary

Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

Above left, from left are Jonny Rosser, treasurer of the Vauxhall Historical Society; Dennis and Barbara LaMore, both of the Union Township Historical Society; and Frank Loria, of the Third New Jersey Regimen, at the American Revolution 250th Anniversary Union County Kickoff Awareness Walk

on Saturday, April 19, at Nomahegan Park in Cranford. Above right, Eleni Glykis, Elizabeth Public Library director; and Aimee Fernandez-Puente, head of Local History and Special Collections, sit together at the American Revolution 250th Anniversary Union County Kickoff Awareness Walk.

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6 — May 2025 — Union Leader

U.S. Army major returns ‘home’ to Kean U. Wellness Center Nurse-practitioner Kristine Sparks returned to the Kean Wellness Center on Monday, March 3, after spending seven months in a vastly different setting as medical director of the Deployment Readiness Center at Fort Cavazos, Texas.

Major Sparks, a U.S. Army reservist, was deployed to oversee nearly 200 military and other personnel at the Center at Fort Cavasos, formerly known as Fort Hood, the nation’s third-largest military base. Each year, thousands of service members receive medical screening there before serving military duty.

“I’m grateful to be back and to continue making an impact here at Kean,” Sparks said recently in her Kean office, where a “Welcome Home” banner put up by coworkers decorated the wall behind her desk.

“Transitioning from wearing the Army combat uniform daily to scrubs feels like swapping one kind of uniform for another, but I embrace it because it reflects my different roles in service and health care,” she said. “As a primary care manager in the military, it was my responsibility to ensure the health and well-being of everyone on base. Now in my role at Kean, I carry forward that same commitment by focusing on keeping everyone healthy and safe on campus.”

An American-born daughter of immigrants from the Philippines, Sparks entered the military in 2000, after earning her bachelor’s degree in nursing. She said she wanted to honor her parents and give them “a deep sense of belonging and pride as Americans.”

She spent 11 years in the U.S. Air Force, including a deployment to Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar shortly after 9/11. As one of few women and one of only two nurses on base, she worked 48-hour shifts providing critical care in a medical tent.

“That was scary,” she said. “It was an extraordinary experience that required adaptability, resilience and teamwork.”

While serving in the Air Force, Sparks met her husband, Nicholas, and earned her master’s degree in nursing. She took a nine-year break from military service, during which they had three children, and she earned her doctorate in nursing practice.

In 2020, feeling called to serve again, Sparks joined the Army Reserves. Last year, she got an email calling her up to Fort Cavasos.

“My responsibilities there encompassed both medical oversight and administrative leadership. I supervised a diverse team, including military personnel, contractors and 33 providers, ensuring they were equipped to deliver high-quality care,” she said. “It was a very hard job.”

One sacrifice was leaving behind her husband and three children who remained at home during her deployment. Facetime calls and a few short visits replaced the daily routines of life in East Hanover.

“It took me out of my comfort zone.

But I’m very proud of myself that I did it,” she said. “It’s good for my children to see

Photo Courtesy of Kean University

Kean Wellness Center nurse practitioner Kristine Sparks has returned to her role on Kean University’s campus after completing a deployment to a Texas military base as a U.S. Army reservist. mommy has a life outside the house.”

The Wellness Center greeted Sparks’ return with a festive brunch, militarythemed decorations and warm welcomes.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kristine back,” said Wellness Center Executive Director Genique Stanislaus. “With a unique blend of professionalism and compassion, Kristine approaches every situation with grace and a sense of humor. Her commitment to serving others – whether in the clinic or in a field hospital – reflects the values of compassion, service and selflessness, and inspires and motivates those around her. She is a true role model.”

At Kean, Sparks treats students’ coughs and colds, provides gynecological services and physical exams, conducts bloodwork, often for students entering clinical fieldwork positions, and offers preventive care and health education.

Kean sophomore Isabella Blanco, a forensic psychology major from Florida living in Rahway, said she was excited to make an appointment with Sparks again.

“Her bubbly personality really makes it comfortable to be there,” Blanco said.

Asked to compare her two roles, Sparks said the settings may be different, but many skills are the same.

“The skills and values I’ve developed through my military service – resilience, adaptability and teamwork – play a vital role in how I approach patient care,” she said. “Both roles require strong leadership, attention to detail and a deep com-

mitment to service, but my work at Kean is especially fulfilling because I can make a direct and immediate impact on my patients' well-being, empowering them to thrive academically and personally. I like both settings, but I love Kean.”

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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 — May 2025 — 7

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8 — May 2025 — Union Leader

Jersey rocker with Union roots a real ‘heartbreaker’ Rich Kubicz and ‘Damn The Torpedoes’ keep the spirit of Tom Petty alive and well

By David VanDeventer Entertainment Correspondent He knows it’s only rock ’n roll, but he loves it. For former Union resident and Union High School Class of 1985 alumnus Rich Kubicz, music isn’t just an enjoyable outlet for expression; it’s become his way of life.

Now residing in bucolic Sussex County with his wife, Adrienne, Kubicz stays busy writing and recording his own songs while fronting his increasingly popular Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers tribute band, Damn The Torpedoes. Union Leader recently caught up with the retro-rocker to discuss his past, present and future.

UL: We’ve been friends since we were little kids and soccer teammates, but I can’t recall where your lifelong passion for music came from. Family influences?

KUBICZ: Yes. My mother played the piano and my grandfather was a German choral singer. I grew up in the 1970s and, like many of us did back then, immersed myself in the music of The Who, The Beatles, The Kinks, Rolling Stones, CSNY, The Byrds, etc. I can still recall the moment that I first heard a Tom Petty song blaring from my old AM radio and knowing instantly that I had to get a guitar! My dad bought me one when I was 10 and I started taking lessons immediately after that.

UL: You released an album of original material back in 2006 named after a park in Union County called “Echo Lake.”

What was that creative process like?

KUBICZ: “Echo Lake” was my very first attempt to channel my acoustic songs into a fully-produced album. These are 10 very personal songs influenced in some part by my life experiences. The title track is one example and “For Lindsay” was written for my then-fiancé’s – still my wife of 30 years, Adrienne – 6year-old daughter that I could then perform at our wedding.

UL: So what has it been like playing to such large audiences since 2007 as Damn The Torpedoes – named after The Heartbreakers iconic 1979 third studio album – while spreading the musical gospel of your childhood hero, Tom Petty? It must get a bit surreal at times, right?

KUBICZ: Big crowds are always great to play for and I think the largest one was at SteelStacks in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Somebody estimated the crowd size that day surpassed 5,000 people. Not too shabby for a tribute band! As a local boy growing up in New Jersey, we’re proud to have played at The Stone Pony in Asbury Park several times. After all these years, DTT just keeps getting bigger and better venues and is being admired and enjoyed by more and more Tom Petty fans.

UL: What is it about Petty – who passed away at the age of 67 in October

At right, Rick Kubicz onstage at the April 12 Salem Roadhouse Cafe fundraiser and, above center, flanked by his Damn the Torpedoes bandmates. DTT is proudly keeping the musical legacy of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers alive and well for an eager new generation of fans.

2017 – that still appeals to you after all these decades?

KUBICZ: His music is absolutely brilliant to me. Not just the melodies and lyrics; it’s also how every single band member of The Heartbreakers added to the overall sound. My favorite part of being in a Tom Petty tribute band is knowing that we have so many incredible songs and albums that we can choose from on any given night. Every DTT show has its own unique vibe.

UL: So I heard that you and Adrienne went full “Green Acres” mode a while back and left Union behind to become farmers? Sounds like the perfect segue to your April 12 show supporting Groundwork Elizabeth, which is a non-profit, environmentally-based community outreach organization based one town over from Union.

KUBICZ: Adrienne grew up in the sticks and I always dreamed of homesteading. She is a master gardener and actually works for Groundwork Elizabeth.

We decided to sell our house in Union

back in 2023 to pursue our next adventure after becoming empty nesters. We found a beautiful one acre property in Hardyston Township NJ and it’s pretty much what we’ve always dreamed. During our first year, we installed 12 vegetable beds, a large compost and a sustainable irrigation system. Our next step

Photo Courtesy of Tyler Kubicz over the coming year is to install a chicken coop and a corn field. We love being surrounded by nature.

UL: So what can the crowd expect to hear at your Salem Roadhouse gig on April 12?

KUBICZ: Just to be clear, this is not a DTT gig. I don’t get to play my originals out live as often as I would like and intimate venues like The Roadhouse allow me to do that. I’ll deliver a few songs from my “Echo Lake” album along with a few new ones that haven’t been recorded yet. But it gets better: I found a load of talented singer/songwriter pals that I was able to coax into joining me at this show; great musicians and singers like Mike Zuko, Melinda Davis, Erica Cohn and Robert Hill. Our plan is to fill in the cracks with their originals and some cool, rare covers tossed in, too. My sister, Denise Pereira, will be the featured artist displaying her work that night and Tom Van Cott will be doing his awesome “Slam Poetry” throughout the evening. I can personally guarantee that everybody who shows up will have a great evening. So come on out, rock a little and help us help the fine folks over at Groundwork Elizabeth!

The Salem Roadhouse Cafe is located in the lower hall of Townley Presbyterian Church at 829 Salem Road in Union.

Proceeds from the show, after expenses were deducted, were donated to Groundwork Elizabeth.

Union Leader — May 2025 — 9

Photo by David VanDeventer

Union losing its ‘World’s Tallest Water Sphere’ soon?

(Continued from Page 1) can be declared a state landmark?

Marc Apter: Tearing it down is one thing, but “replacing it” with a large middle finger monopole is just plain insulting!

Gayle Levee Hall: Save the big Union blueball! We need to make and sell T-shirts!

Darin Venable: We gotta go back to the future and save the tower, Doc! Helena Roberts Shaver: It’s a part of local history... Leave it alone.

Vivienne Cesaro: Save the tower!

Stephen Oleksy: My uncle helped build that thing and he was a proud Union carpenter.

Karen Dougan Camb: This is awful!

Union just isn’t the same anymore and it’s a real shame.

At press time, realistic projections by all parties involved point to the water sphere’sremoval process taking several years to actually be implemented and then carried out. To the more sentimental and optimistic among the populace, this large time lag provides any true hope of “saving” the tower with a nice, long headstart to mobilize a viable game plan.

Is there even a probable chance that some sort of grass roots coalition uniting state, county and township power brokers, local historical societies, curious media outlets and fundraising efforts can produce a solution that benefits all parties? Crazier things have happened in the Garden State and much stranger things have been saved for posterity, so any future attempts should not be so readily derided or dismissed.

Ultimately, all the hand-wringing, wishful thinking and warm recollections in the world will have little or no effect on creating real change. Matters such as these always seem to come down to two powerful societal forces working in unison: Lots of money and positive action.

Until then, and in the meantime, look to the skies and simply appreciate “The World’s Tallest Water Sphere” while we still can.

10 — May 2025 — Union Leader

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Burnet Middle School sixth-graders Alejandro Diaz and Anthony Bosa, wearing tricorn hats they made themselves at the Caldwell Parsonage, enjoy a game of nine-pins.

Burnet Middle School sixth-graders enjoy a visit to The Parsonage To commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, the Union Township Historical Society, with the assistance of the Army Air Forces Historical Association, created a special exhibit at the Caldwell Parsonage.

The Parsonage, dating from the 1780s, is located at 909 Caldwell Ave., Union, and is maintained by the non-profit Union Township Historical Society.

For more information and to schedule a tour, call 908-591-4377.

Pictured admiring a U. S. Navy pilot's flight suit, photos and posters from the era at a recent open house are Alejandro Diaz and Anthony Bosa, sixth-graders at Burnet Middle School.

IN MEMORIAM • SAMIEC – Adam W., of Union, formerly of Poland; March 15. Engineer for Hillside, Irvington DPW. Korean War veteran. Husband, father, grandfather, 94.

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.

Union Leader — May 2025 — 11

Kean University establishes partnership with New York Yankees Kean University is stepping up to the plate as a proud partner of the New York Yankees.

The partnership includes educational benefits for Kean students, including a project-based university course for students that is centered on problem-solving real world business and marketing topics presented by the Yankees. The Yankees will work with Kean’s Office of Career Services to identify internship and professional opportunities for which Kean students can apply. Kean will also have a presence at Yankee Stadium with both permanent signage and LED signage during Yankees games throughout the season.

This collaboration builds on the university’s existing professional sports partnerships with the New York Jets, New Jersey Devils and New York Red Bulls, which create academic and career opportunities for students by integrating professional sports into the educational experience.

“Partnering with the New York Yankees is an incredible opportunity for Kean students,” said Lamont O. Repollet, president of Kean University. “By pairing Kean’s tradition of academic excellence with the Yankees’ legacy of success, this collaboration will provide our students with a first-class opportunity to explore the sports industry, engage in research and build valuable career pathways within the industry.”

The New York Yankees-themed class, developed with the team, will provide students with advanced insights into the business operations of professional sports. Personnel from the Yankees will actively partic-

Photo Courtesy of Kean University

Kean University is stepping up to the plate as a proud partner of the New York Yankees, building on the university’s existing professional sports partnerships, which create academic and career opportunities for students. ipate in the class, enriching the learning experience with their expertise.

“We are extremely excited about our relationship with Kean University – especially in having the opportunity to work closely with its students,” said Aryn Sobo, vice president, Human Resources, Employment and Labor Law.

“Getting a foot in the door in the sports world can be extremely challenging for students and recent graduates entering the workforce. Being able to interact, engage and collaborate with our front office employees will greatly benefit Kean students as they create and navigate their path in the industry.”

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12 — May 2025 — Union Leader

Fourth annual ‘You, Me and a Cup of Tea’ fundraiser to be hosted The fourth annual ”You, Me and a Cup of Tea” fundraiser is being hosted this year, moving to the elegant Titan Union Event Center Rooftop, 2003 Morris Ave., on Sunday, May 4, from 1 to 4:30 p.m. The event benefits Josephine’s Place, a local organization providing critical support services for women in Union County.

“This event embodies the spirit of community that makes the township of Union special,” said James Bowser, mayor. “By coming together to support Josephine’s Place, we’re not just enjoying an afternoon of tea and music; we’re helping provide vital resources that empower women to build brighter futures for themselves and their families.”

Guests will experience an elegant afternoon featuring a traditional tea service with freshly prepared finger sandwiches, warm scones, delicate pastries and a selection of premium teas, all accompanied by live jazz performances. Attendees are encouraged to embrace the bold and dressy dress code, with hats and fascinators highly encouraged. A prize will be awarded for the best hats.

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased through Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ 1284073360989?aff=oddtdtcreator. With limited seating available, early registration is encouraged. Those unable to attend are invited to support the cause through donations via the same Eventbrite link.

All proceeds will benefit Josephine’s Place, an Elizabeth-based organization that has provided a safe, welcoming space for women to develop life skills and realize Photo Courtesy of Township of Union their potential since 2005. Their comprehensive proThe Township of Union is thrilled for the return of ‘You, Me and a Cup of Tea’ on Sunday, May 4, at grams include ESL classes, job training, counseling servthe Titan Union Event Center Rooftop. ices, and support groups designed to foster confidence the programs serving women in the community, visit updates, visit uniontownship.com or visit @TWPUnionand independence.

For more information about Josephine’s Place and www.josephinesplace.org. For more details and event NJ on social media.

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Union Leader — May 2025 — 13

UNION NEWS Leaders to address critical issues ahead of 2025 gubernatorial election The New Jersey Black Issues Convention, in collaboration with the Interfaith Action Movement, Kean University Faithbased Institute of Public Policy, the General Baptist Convention of New Jersey and the New Jersey Convention of Progressive Baptists, has announced the Faith and Community Leaders State of the State Policy Summit. This pivotal event will take place on Saturday, May 3, at Kean University’s Skylands Campus in Union.

The summit serves as a platform for faith and community leaders to engage in meaningful discussions on five critical policy areas identified during NJBIC’s 2025 Annual Retreat: • homeownership and financial literacy/empowerment; • investment in black communities; • black maternal health and infant mortality; • education reform; and • criminal justice reform.

These discussions are particularly timely, as New Jersey approaches its gubernatorial election on Nov. 4, with primary elections scheduled for June 10.

The summit aims to provide a platform for community leaders to voice their priorities and influence the policy agendas

of gubernatorial candidates.

Confirmed speakers include: • Dennis Zeveloff, chief policy advisor, Office of the Governor; • Justin Drews, chairperson, NJ Clemency Advisory Board; • Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumter, chairperson, New Jersey Black Legislative Caucus • Kia King, chief of staff, NJ Department of Community Affairs; and • Cara Wallace, senior economic justice advisor to the Rev. Al Sharpton and CEO, Optimized Diversity Solutions.

Board of Adjustment to meet Union’s Zoning Board of Adjustment will meet on Wednesdays, May 7, 14, 21 and 28, from 7:30 to 9 p.m., in the Municipal Building, 1976 Morris Ave., Union.

Committee to meet Union’s Township Committee will meet on Tuesdays, May 13 and 27, to have a conference from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., followed by a regular meeting from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., in the Municipal Building, 1976 Morris Ave., Union.

Board of Health to meet Union’s Board of Health will meet on Wednesday, May 14, from 6 to 7 p.m., in the Municipal Building, 1976 Morris Ave., Union.

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14 — May 2025 — Union Leader

May is flowering into great programs at Vauxhall Branch Library Everyone is recommended to sign up for the Vauxhall Branch of the Union Public Library at uplnj.org/newsletter/ to keep up with new programs, services and updates about the library. Registration is required for all events.

The Main Interim Library on Stuyvesant will be closed while the entire library is moved to the new building. All information and updates can be found at https://uplnj.org/move/.

Library Living Room Conversations, on Monday, April 5, at 6 p.m. – Join at the Vauxhall Branch Library to have a conversation on any topic that arises. This is a great opportunity to meet new people and strengthen the community.

Wednesday Night Trivia: Television!, on Wednesday, May 7, at 6 p.m. – Are you a fan of “The Office” or “Breaking Bad”? Do you watch reruns of “Martin” or “In Living Color”? Come join for a fun day of trivia and prizes.

African Americans in Vietnam: A Film Viewing and Discussion of The Bloods of ’Nam, on Saturday, May 10, at 1 p.m. – A high percentage of men on the frontlines in Vietnam were young, poor, undereducated, and black. By most accounts, they had the highest casualties.

But these young men say they were fighting two wars-against the enemy and against discrimination. Join a review and discussion on the short documentary “The Bloods of ’Nam.” Sports Photography Through the Decades, on Monday, May 12, at 6 p.m. – Chuck Solomon is one of the premier sports photographers in the country. Meet the photographer himself as he shows images and shares stories from his nearly 40-year career as a sports photographer, 30 of those years with Sports Illustrated.

Besides seeing some amazing photographs and hearing compelling stories about how these images were captured, you will pick up valuable tips on how you

can improve your own photographic skills. So whether you are a sports fan, photo enthusiast or just want to take better photos at a children’s soccer game or dance recital, you won’t want to miss this exciting evening.

Animal Crossing Open Hours, virtual on Switch, on Friday, May 23, from 3 to 5 p.m. – Come explore UPL Island. Check out the inclusive virtual library building that serves children, teens and adults. Discover the Mario-themed maze, shake fruit/money trees, shop at Build Your Balance @ Vauxhall, Nooks & Abels, help craft DIYs and leave on Wednesday, May 14, at 10:30 a.m. – a message on the bulletin board. As a It’s more important than ever to avoid the thank you for visiting, there will be freerisks of falling as we age. Through gentle bies. In order to visit the island, you must strength exercises and stepping strategies, add the library as a friend before entering learn to keep your body balanced in dif- the island. The UPL Nintendo friend code ferent situations. Give this popular class a is SW-4027-1837-6212. try today at Vauxhall.

All ages welcome. No registration is necessary. If you have any questions, conUnwind and Paint, on Wednesday, tact jcarvajal@uplnj.org.

May 14, at 6 p.m. – Join for an evening at Love You Madly: A 125th Celethe library as Newark resident Lelia Stevenson leads attendees for a fun and bration of Duke Ellington’s Life and Song, on Saturday, May 24, at 1 relaxing evening of painting. p.m. – This concert will celebrate the Off the Shelf Book Club, on Thurs- musical genius of Duke Ellington, one day, May 15, at 6 p.m. – This month, the of America’s most revered composers, club will be reading “The Tiger’s Wife,” by pianists, and band leaders. The proTéa Obreht. Download it on Libby or gram will feature Ellington's songs, compositions and collaborations, Hoopla today with your library card. including “A Train,” “In A Sentimental DJ Cool V: The Life of the Juice Mood,” ‘Lush Life” and “Chelsea Crew DJ, on Saturday, May 17, at 1 p.m. Bridge,” as well as a short medley of – Join as Elizabeth native and Juice Crew songs from the “Sacred Concert.”

DJ, DJ Cool V, discusses his life on being Pianist David Janeway will accompany a DJ and reads excerpts from his new jazz vocalist Shirley Crabbe. book.

Hilton Readers Book Discussion Group, on Wednesday, May 27, at 6 p.m.

Vauxhall Negro League Baseball – The book selection for May is “The Wife Club, on Monday, May 19, at 6 p.m. – Are Between Us,” by Greer Hendricks. you a baseball fan and love history? Perhaps you are a fan of Satchel Paige or the Dave Revels: Stories and Songs Kansas City Monarchs? Come join where from the Road, on Saturday, May 31, at our goal is to preserve the history of Negro 1 p.m. – Join Dave Revels, former memLeague Baseball. Meetings will consist of ber of the Charlie Thomas Drifters and presentations, discussions, film viewings, lead singer of the Persuasions, as he book talks and much more. brings the sounds of Motown to life.

Adult Crochet for Beginners, on Wednesday, May 21, at 6 p.m. – Join as Lisa Roberts teaches attendees the basics of learning how to crochet. Attendees can bring their own crochet hooks and yarn, but supplies will be provided.

Watch him perform iconic hits as he discusses the history of Motown.

Meditation, virtual on Zoom, on Mondays at 6:30 p.m. – Join Bindu Bhatt for a virtual evening meditation session.

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Weekly Chair Yoga, on Tuesdays at 9:15 a.m. – Take a deep breath with friends and stretch. A popular class for beginners or professionals now as a weekly series. Presented by the Gateway Family YMCA. Space is limited to 15 patrons; register in advance.

Walk-in Wednesdays: One-onOne Library Technology Assistance, on Wednesdays, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Get help with library resources, including downloading e-books from Libby and Hoopla, using the library catalog and resources, using mobile print and using the photocopier and scanner. Registration is not required.

No meditation this month.

For more information about our adult programs and resources, call Adult Services at 908-851-5450, ext. 3, Vauxhall Branch at 908-851-5451 or check out the website at uplnj.org or visit us at the Vauxhall Branch at 123 Hilton Ave.

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Union Leader — May 2025 — 15

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16 — May 2025 — Union Leader

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