Town-Wide Block Party has it all
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
You can’t beat a big neighborhood party. And the Union Town-Wide Block Party in Rabkin Park had it all on Tuesday, Aug. 13. Hosted by the Union Township Education Association, there was a DJ, bouncy houses, games, face painting, balloon making and plenty of cuisine from local businesses. Residents aged 5 and older received $10 food vouchers.
There was also a health fair, which featured the Optical Academy, Zumba, kickboxing and yoga. Food from community restaurants included Café Z, Cioffi’s Restaurant–Bar–Pizzeria, Cozy Corner Deli and Caterers, Johnny Napkins, Mama’s Southern Style BBQ 2 and Qsina 8.
“I’m loving everything!” said Muriel Demello, who was there with her 5year-old son, Logan, who just won in a game race.
Olamma, 17, and Adaugo, 15, are cousins who were really enjoying themselves. “I like the bouncy house. It was fun,” said Olamma.
“I came for the face painting,” said Adaugo, who favored the food from Mama’s BBQ.
“It’s good!” added Olamma.
Gary Verdesoto, of Union, was there with his daughter, Kathryn, 11. “Everyone’s coming together,” he said. “It’s always a good time.”
Kathryn said she liked the games and that they were challenging.
Kim Halle, of Atlantic Health System, said she liked that the event was free for the community. “The organizers are wonderful people,” she said. “It’s nice to see something just for kids.”
Anamika Sandhu, of Union, was there with her 3-year-old, Sasha. “It’s a fun thing for kids,” she said. “The county does so much for children.”
Valencia Henry, of Union, said, “The weather is perfect.”
Christina Birstler, school counselor and UTEA head representative at Union High School, was leading a kickboxing class. She began with jumping jacks to the song “Eye of the Tiger,” as many women joined in. “I love the sense of community and everybody coming together,” said the Staten Island fitness trainer.
Officer Jessica Santiago, from Union
Above left, Logan, 5, is ready to DJ himself as he holds a mic at the Union Town-Wide Block Party in Rabkin Park on Tuesday, Aug. 13. Above right, cousins Olamma, 17, and Adaugo, 15, enjoy the bouncy house and face painting at the Block Party. Below left, Kathryn, 11, of Union, plays ‘Operation’ at the Union Town-Wide Block Party. Below right, Sasha, 3, has fun playing with other children at the event.
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Kean president addresses Democratic National Convention Black Caucus
Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet delivered a powerful address on Wednesday, Aug. 21, at the Democratic National Convention Black Caucus in Chicago, emphasizing the importance of bold leadership and the pivotal role that the 2024 election will play for communities of color across the United States.
Sharing the stage with Democratic National Committee Chairperson Jaime Harrison and acclaimed musician John Legend, Repollet underscored the critical need for young people, particularly college students, to engage in the electoral process.
During his speech, Repollet highlighted Kean University’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity and justice, noting the institution’s status as both a Minority Serving Institution and Hispanic-Serving Institution.
“At Kean University, we see education as the new frontier of social justice,” Repollet said. “It’s a recognition that education is not just about earning a degree; it’s about closing equity gaps and ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background.”
Earlier in the week, Repollet was also a featured speaker at a national event hosted by the American Federation of Teachers, where he spoke about the importance of collaboration with labor unions. He reflected on the critical partnership between Kean University and the Kean Federation of Teachers, which
ties of color, including threats to voting rights and women’s rights, attacks on diversity and inclusion programs, and the ongoing struggle for social and environmental justice.
“We are at a pivotal moment in our nation’s history – a moment that demands bold, courageous leadership from all of us,” Repollet said. “It is up to us to motivate and empower the next generation of leaders to rise to these challenges.”
Reflecting on speaking alongside social justice leaders such as Harrison and Legend, Repollet said after the caucus that he was humbled by the opportunity.
has been instrumental in advancing equity on campus.
“When we start with respect, we often end in success. That’s the lesson I’ve learned time and again through our work with the Kean Federation of Teachers, and it’s a lesson that resonates deeply with the work of the AFT,” Repollet said at the AFT event.
Steve Fastook, chairperson of the Kean University Board of Trustees, emphasized the importance of such
exposure for the university.
“Kean University’s presence on the national stage, particularly at events of this magnitude, is a testament to our commitment to being a leader in higher education,” Fastook said. “This exposure is invaluable as we continue to showcase the work we’re doing to advance equity and grow as a research institution.”
In his address to the DNC Black Caucus, Repollet called attention to the significant challenges facing communi-
“It was truly inspiring to stand with such pivotal national leaders of color,” he said. “I am deeply honored to share Kean University’s story on this national stage, and I hope that our commitment to diversity, equity and justice resonates with those who are working at the grassroots level and through the ranks of government to make a difference in our country.”
Repollet also used his platform to encourage young people to exercise their right to vote, stressing that their voices are crucial in shaping the future of the nation.
“At Kean University, our students understand the power of their vote. I always tell our students: I don’t care who they vote for, but I do care that they vote.”
Photo Courtesy of Kean University
Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet emphasized bold leadership and the importance of students’ votes in his address to the Democratic National Convention Black Caucus in Chicago.
Loyalty Lodge No. 33 hosts car wash to benefit Scouts
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
Aneil Chetram, president of the Loyalty Lodge 33, offered the Loyalty Lodge parking lot for a car wash on Saturday, July 20. The event benefited Union’s Cub Scout Pack 68 and BSA Troop 168G. Dozens of young people from the troops worked together to raise funds.
“We’re more than happy to help,” Chetram said. “They got the perfect day for it. The kids are absolutely loving it.”
The Loyalty Lodge is located at 1912 Morris Ave. This freemasonry organization is 206 years old. “Masonry is big into charity,” said Chetram.
Lea Sheridan, committee chairperson of BSA Troop 168-G, and Kate Rahal, committee chairperson of Union’s Cub Scout Pack 68, worked together to make the fundraiser happen. “I’d say it’s successful,” said Sheridan. “People coming out to support.”
BSA Troop 168-G is an all-female troop. “Our girls are from ages 11 to 18,” said Sheridan. “For our troop, we just got a trailer. We want to get a wrap on the trailer and new cooking equipment.”
Katrina, 16, is one of the founders of Troop 168, which started in 2019. “We’re trying to raise money (by) washing cars,” she said. “We got a lot of business. I’ve been out since 8 a.m. It’s good so far.”
Jackson, an 8-year-old Cub Scout, said, “We’re going to do fun stuff with the money we raise.”
Rafael, 9, said, “It’s fun. It’s a fundraiser. This event is raising money for future events.”
Miguel Balseca’s son, Caleb, has been in the Cub Scouts for three years. “He loves it,” Balseca said.
Meridith Steckler has a son in Cub Scouts. She said, “It’s fun. It’s good. It looks successful. The kids are having a great time.”
Neil Sheridan was one of the supporters who got his car washed. “They did an excellent job,” he said.
Arlene Sheridan also got a car wash and said, “They did a great job.”
During the event, car songs were heard from a playlist, including “Low Rider” and “Cars.”
The Loyalty Lodge plans on doing other fundraisers in the future. Currently, it has active members from many places, including Long Island and Manhattan. “Once you become a member, you’re a member for life,” said Chetram.
To qualify for membership, a petitioner must be male and at least 18 years of age.
To learn more about Loyalty Lodge 33, visit: https://www.loyaltylodge33nj. com/.
Above left, children have fun washing a car at the car wash that was hosted to benefit Union’s Cub Scout Pack 68 and BSA Troop 168-G on Saturday, July 20. Above right, Katrina, 16, one of the founders of BSA Troop 168G, holds up a soapy wash mitt that she put to good use at the car wash. Below left, Aneil Chetram, president of Loyalty Lodge 33, holds a wash mitt as he looks over a car he’s about to start washing. Loyalty Lodge 33 hosted the car wash that benefited Boy and Girl Scouts of Union at its parking lot. Below right, a group of Boy and Girl Scouts wash a car at the car wash they ran at the Loyalty Lodge 33 parking lot.
At left, Arlene Sheridan drives off in her shiny car. She said the Scouts running the car wash ‘did a great job.’ At right, Lea Sheridan, committee chairperson of BSA Troop 168-G, stands beside a sign announcing ‘Thank you!’ to everyone who takes their car to get washed at the car wash the Scouts hosted on Saturday, July 20.
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Book recounts how firecracker damaged boy’s hand
‘A Boy Named Reid’ is a safety lesson for children about the dangers of fireworks
By David Jablonski
Managing Editor
Reid Anderson never knew when he woke up on June 9, 1964, that this would be the last day he would ever have 10 fingers.
Back in 1964, Reid was the same as any other child who lived in Union, innocent and curious. He would go to his friend’s house and play, listen to music and daydream. Everything was fine until Reid’s friend showed him two egg cartons full of homemade firecrackers.
He and his friend went down to the river with a book of matches to light them, but they all blew out. Neil still had one firecracker in his hand and one in his pocket, when they both went off without being lit.
The one in Neil’s pocket gave him a big welt, but the one in his hand did far worse damage.
Now, 60 years later, Anderson recently self-published a book, “A Boy Named Reid,” which tells the story of his experience with the firecrackers.
“In the book, I sanitized it so much that I just said the firecracker popped in my hand and it started to bleed and it hurt badly,” said Anderson in a recent visit to the office of Worrall Community Newspapers Inc., the publishers of LocalSource. “In reality, it was horrifying and gruesome. It actually blew my hand apart. The two middle fingers were actually hanging down by pieces of skin as I ran back to the house where my mom was in the backyard.
“There was no 9-1-1 back then, so what she had to do was call the operator and she couldn’t even get the words out. She didn’t really know what happened. She just saw the kind of condition I was in afterward.”
“A Boy Named Reid” tells the tale of Reid’s experience with fireworks and the aftermath, at a level easy enough for children to understand without being shocked or scared. The first part of the book talks about Reid’s life as a normal 8-year-old, at least until the firecracker goes off. It then describes his time in the hospital, his return to school, his limitations and how he over-
‘A Boy Named Reid’ is an educational tale about the dangers of fireworks, told in a manner designed for children. It contains a great deal of background from Anderson’s own case, including stories that ran in the Union Leader and letters sent to him from classmates when he was recovering in the hospital.
comes them. The artwork was done by Anderson himself, via computer images.
The middle of the book has photographs of Reid as a youth. He includes three dozen photos of actual letters from classmates, transcribed beneath each one. The following section is news coverage of the incident by the Union Leader, published by Worrall
Community Newspapers Inc., detailing the injury, recovery, a fund drive and a warning of the dangers of fireworks. A photo is also there of Reid and Phil Rizzuto, famed Yankee sportscaster, sitting on the front steps of Neil’s house. Finally, there are discussion topics and comprehensive summary so that teachers can use this book as a guide to
classes of the dangers of fireworks and the consequences of handling them.
The last page talks about Anderson, a music composer /performer whose music can be found on iTunes, Amazon MP3, GooglePlay, YouTube, Rumble, and on CD and DVD. Anderson has earned a degree in mechanical technology and spent 10 years in drafting and CAD before going back to school to support a 30-year career in information technology and computers. He also became an NJ state-licensed contractor and now an author.
Although he grew up in Union and his family still lives there, Anderson now lives in Denville.
He also made a folksy compact disc to serve as the soundtrack of the Audiobook, “A Boy Named Reid.”
“It’s real folksy and kind of country music-style. And it’s kid-friendly. It’s a collection of eight of my songs that I thought might work with this and it did. It worked real well with the story. Everything worked. Everything just came together. St. Barnabas, the children’s hospital, now RWJ Barnabas, they’re the ones who took me in. I sent them a dozen books as a donation.”
“June 9 was the anniversary date of the accident.”
“This is all available through Amazon and Barnes & Noble.”
Photos Courtesy of Reid Anderson
Reid Anderson
Monday: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm
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Education Partnership with 2024 HBCU NY Classic announced
Kean University, the state’s urban research university, will serve as the New Jersey Education Partner for the 2024 HBCU NY Classic and host a series of events on its Union campus in advance of the annual football tradition in September.
The HBCU NY Classic each year celebrates the cultures, contributions and competitive spirits of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. This year, Howard University takes on rival Morehouse College on Saturday, Sept. 14, at 3 p.m., at MetLife Stadium.
“Kean University is thrilled to join forces with the 2024 HBCU New York Classic, an event that celebrates the power of higher education and diversity,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet. “As a proud, minority-serving institution, Kean is dedicated to fostering an inclusive learning environment that mirrors the values upheld by the nation’s HBCUs. This partnership presents a unique opportunity to further our mission, strengthen community ties and inspire students from all backgrounds to pursue their educational dreams.”
Kean will host an exciting slate of public pre-game events, including a college fair, debate and step show. As New Jersey’s urban research university, Kean is an anchor institution, providing educational,
research and cultural opportunities as well as resources to communities in the region and state.
The New Jersey Urban Mayors Association and Urban League of Union County are collaborating with Kean and the HBCU NY Classic to offer their constituents discount tickets to the game and share information about the pre-game events at Kean.
“The HBCU New York Classic and the upcoming events at Kean University are enriching opportunities to celebrate community and the transformative power of a college education,” said Adrian O. Mapp, mayor of Plainfield and NJUMA president and chairperson. “We encourage everyone to take advantage of these informative and enjoyable events, and to join us for an exciting football matchup.”
Crystal A. Orr, president and CEO of the Urban League of Union County, said education is a key pillar of the organization, in addition to preserving Black history and traditions.
“I’m excited about the upcoming HBCU events that Kean University is bringing to our community,” Orr said. “From educational workshops and the college fair to the exciting step show and football classic, these events provide students with a unique opportunity to expe-
See 2024, Page 17
13th annual Mayor’s Day 5K Run/Walk will support baby Leighton
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
Baby Leighton was to arrive in April of this year; however, she was born prematurely at the end of February. Her prognosis was not good. The doctors have given her just days to live. Nevertheless, she is still here – and a true fighter.
For the past 13 years, the Greater Union Township Chamber of Commerce has hosted the annual Mayor’s Day 5K Run/Walk to support a cause. This special little baby has been in the hospital her entire six months.
They are trying to get her strong enough so she could come home, although she will still need around-theclock care, with regular intensive home health services.
“We always want to make our 5K, besides a great community gathering, give something back to people who need that,” said Chamber Executive Director/CEO James Masterson.
Runners and walkers of all levels are invited to join the Union Township Chamber of Commerce at the 13th annual Mayor’s Day 5K Run/Walk on Sunday, Sept. 29.
Rain or shine, the race will start and end at Union High School on Cooke Drive, following a course certified by USA Track and Field. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., with the actual race commencing at 9 a.m. Prizes will be awarded for various age categories. Tshirts and gift bags will be distributed
Portions of this year’s proceeds will go to help the medical expenses of 6-month-old baby Leighton, above left, who was born two months prematurely and has been in the hospital since her birth. Above center and right, Leighton is pictured with her mother.
to the first 300 registrants. For the eighth year in a row, Shake a Paw has been a major sponsor. “They are a longtime member of the chamber,” said Masterson. “They love being a part of the community. They like being able to support different events in the township. This just appealed to them, in their hearts.”
The Mayor’s Day 5K Run/Walk started back in 2011, when it had only three sponsors. Last year, there were 74 sponsors. At this point, there are already 50. “We’re on our way,” said Masterson. “People sign up as we speak. We are certainly looking for more.”
Continuing, he added, “I thank all our supporters, the folks who run and walk, the companies that do sponsorships, the agencies that provide support, the police department, the Board of Education, and the township of Union. It’s a great synergy and we expect this year to be as successful – or more successful – than in the past.”
To register, go online to www.runsignup.com and enter Mayor’s Day 5K. Information is available by contacting the chamber directly at 908-688-2777, visiting www.unionchamber.com or emailing the chamber at executivedirector@unionchamber.com.
UNIONLEADER
Publisher: David Worrall
Managing Editor: David Jablonski
Advertising Manager: Joseph Farina
Photo Courtesy of Union Township Chamber of Commerce
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eth The two brothers began working at a local, old-time pork store, where they learned the art of butchering and the meat market industry. Little did they know that they would become lifelong business partners. In the fall of 1967, David and Mario opened Perrotti’s Quality Meats, with the hope of turning their newly found craft into a business of their own More than 50 years later, their business still operates on the corner of S Union Avenue and Cherry Street in Cranford
At Perrotti’s today, they pride themselves in being a family-owned and operated business that treats its loyal customers like part of the family The sons of David Perrotti, Dave Jr and Nick Perrotti, have earned the responsibility of taking over the family business, with an eye toward keeping the old-world butcher shop a part of the community for the next 50 years
Always an active member of the community, Perrotti’s Quality Meats sponsors numerous charitable endeavors, including the Jaycees/St. Michael’s Church, St. Michael’s Feast, the Cranford Fire and Police departments, football at all schools, the Rescue Squad, Special Olympics, the Firecracker 4-Miler and T-ball. Through the years, Perrotti’s Quality Meats has changed by becoming not just a full-service butcher but also by offering a wide variety of prepared foods The original service as a full-service butcher has been maintained, in addition to employee recipes and traditional food
Customers continually praise the business for providing great service, delicious food and having an informative staff
Perrotti’s has been helping local families and businesses celebrate milestones for decades. If you need a caterer for a large party or event, view Perrotti’s catering menu and give them a call or send them an email to start planning your next party or event.
Perrotti’s Quality Meats is open Monday through Friday, from 9 a m. to 6 p m , and Saturday, from 9 a m. to 5 p m , and can be reached by calling 908-272-4980 or visiting its website at perrottiscranford com
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Owners Nick and Dave Perrotti
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Union artist awarded Artist Empowerment Award 2024
The CUE Art Foundation and Evercore, a prominent international financial services firm, have announced Union County artist Ángel Souto as the recipient of the prestigious “Evercore Artist Empowerment Award 2024.” This distinguished honor includes a solo exhibition in the heart of Manhattan and a generous cash prize.
Souto’s exhibition, titled “Morriña: Echoes of Galicia,” is currently being hosted at Evercore’s headquarters in New York City. His work delves into the rich cultural heritage of Galicia, an extraordinary region situated in northwest Spain, with a unique blend of Hispanic and Celtic heritage. Through this exhibition, the artist offers a fresh, contemporary take on traditional Galicia, reinterpreted with innovative visions and a modern approach.
“My current work focuses on an ethnographic exploration of Galicia’s rich culture. I use this context to recover forgotten narratives about rural life, emigration, music and folk traditions,” said Souto. “Through my paintings, I aim to give voice to these marginalized stories and highlight the natural beauty of Galicia.”
Receiving this year’s award has been “a true privilege, especially seeing how my interpretation of the Galician soul resonates in a vibrant city like New York,” Souto said. Besides being recognized as a winner, he emphasizes the importance of the multicultural cross-roads that is New York and sharing these stories with a global audience. “I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to showcase another example of our culture in the heart of New York,” he said.
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Souto is a Spanish painter who emigrated to the United States in his teens and now resides in Union Township. His self-taught practice spans various forms, styles and media, from traditional to digital. Formerly a senior illustration and design director at a branding firm, Souto has applied his talent and eye for detail in his artistic practice, designing and illustrating for Fortune 500 companies and beloved brands across the United States. After 25 years in the industry, he decided to fully dedicate himself to fine arts, developing a distinctive style that fuses his broad skills and interests, inspired by his love for nature and his Hispanic cultural heritage.
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The CUE Art Foundation, together with Evercore, annually awards the Artist Empowerment Award to a single artist to recognize and support their work at a critical juncture in their career. For more information, visit the official announcement page at https://cueartfoundation. org/angel-souto-evercore-empowermentaward-2024.
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(Continued from Page 1)
Police Department, said, “It’s a great event. Kids come out and see everyone before going back to school. The weather is nice and cool.”
Taylor, 14, of Union, loved the games. Austin, 13, of Union, was into the food options. “I want to try soul food,” he said.
Other participants from the communi-
Joanne Carroll, of Union, said, “It’s a great back to school event, getting the community to come together.” Her 6year-old daughter, Aris, loved the face painting and the bouncy house.
ty included the Union Fire Department, Union Public Library, Girl Scouts, SEPAC – Union, Union Recreation Department, Greater Union Township Chamber of Commerce, YMCA, Union Township County Schools Committee and Union Township Education Association.
UNION AREA MARKETPLACE
UTEA hosted the Town-Wide Block Party in partnership with the township of Union, the Union Township Transportation Association, the Union Fire Department, the Union Police Department, the Union Recreation Department and Optical Academy.
Above left, Christina Birstler, school counselor and UTEA head representative at Union High School, leads a kickboxing class, beginning with jumping jacks. Above, second from left, Aris, 6, holds a balloon animal she just
created. Above, third from left, Taylor, 14, and Austin, 13, give a thumbs up, after trying the games and soul food. Above right, Valencia Henry and Mark Dolson of Dragonfly Productions show off a balloon creation.
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
2024 HBCU NY Classic Education Partnership is announced
(Continued from Page 6)
rience the vibrant spirit and culture of HBCUs.
“Since we do not have any HBCUs in New Jersey, it is crucial for our kids to be exposed to these institutions and see both the academic and social aspects of college.”
The HBCU NY Classic brings people
together “in a vibrant and electric atmosphere at MetLife Stadium, with tailgating, live entertainment and special guest appearances adding to the excitement,” according to a news release from event organizers.
“The HBCU football classic is more than just a game; it is a celebration of culture, heritage and academic excel-
IN MEMORIAM
• BURR – Edward, of Union, formerly of Bloomfield; July 5. Veteran, Air National Guard, radar operator. Retired, First Fidelity Bank. Widower, father, 95.
• CIURCZAK – Fred M., of Freehold, formerly of Elizabeth, Linden, Newark and Union; July 4. Teacher, fisherman. Husband, brother, uncle, granduncle, 77.
• HEITHMAR – David F., of Lakewood, formerly of Union, Livingston; June 21. Teacher of biology and physics. Husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle.
• KOZLOWSKY LINFANTE – Dolores E., of Union; July 4. Retired bank manager. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 95.
• KRUEGER – Robert C., of Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., formerly of Union, Randolph; July 26. Army vet. Executive V.P. Widower, father, grandfather, 93.
• PETESCIA – Anthony J., of Union; Aug. 13. U.S. Army veteran. Sealand Shipping supervisor and consultant. Widower, father, uncle, granduncle, 95.
• THUM – Frederick Lorenz Jr., of Mount Arlington, formerly of Union, Westfield; Aug. 15. Army veteran, graphic artist, husband, father, grandfather, 91.
• WALLEN – Eleanor Kaye, of Vauxhall, formerly of Maplewood; July 29. School librarian, tutor. Wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, 88.
In Memoriam is a monthly feature compiled by the news staff from various sources. We also provide the opportunity for families and funeral directors to publish a more extensive, special notice about their loved one called an obituary. These notices are published on our website immediately and then in the next edition of this newspaper. To place a paid obituary send an email to obits@thelocalsource.com or fax to 908-688-0401. Family and friends’ submissions must include sender’s name, address, phone and the name of the funeral home. Call 908-686-7850 for assistance.
lence,” said Sancha Gray, senior vice president of entrepreneurial education initiatives and acting dean of the College of Education at Kean. “We look forward to welcoming participants and spectators to this historic event.”
David Jefferson Jr., acting director of the Kean University Center for Africana Studies, is a graduate of Morehouse College. He said he is looking forward to sharing the HBCU experience with Kean students.
“This event will allow Kean to showcase who we are at a premiere sports event and will be a beacon of community, unity and pride for all who attend,” Jefferson said.
The event showcases “the diversity and excellence found in higher education and athletics,” said Albert Williams, president and CEO of Sports Eleven05 LLC, producers of the classic.
Through the partnership, community
members from across the state will have access to the following special events on Kean’s campus leading up to the football game at MetLife Stadium:
• 2024 HBCU NY Classic – Education Day; Wednesday, Sept. 11, from 10 a.m to 2 p.m., at Kean University’s Harwood Arena. High school sophomores, juniors and seniors as well as community college students will have the opportunity to visit the Kean campus and navigate various college/university and educational booths at their own pace.
All registered chaperones and students will receive a voucher good for two (2) complimentary tickets to the HBCU New York Classic football game.
• 2024 HBCU NY Classic – The Great Debate; Friday, Sept. 13, at 4:30 p.m., at Kean University’s NAAB Auditorium.
• 2024 HBCU NY Classic – Greek Step Show; Friday, Sept. 13, at 7:30 p.m., at Kean University’s Harwood Arena.
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Union Farmers seek a royal season behind returning quarterback King
By JR Parachini Sports Editor
The Farmers have senior Omalley King at quarterback for a third year and experienced linemen in front of him to make sure the Union offense clicks even better in 2024.
King (6-4, 195) completed 8-of-12 passes for 244 yards and three touchdowns to lead the Farmers to a 35-30 win at Ridgewood High School in last year’s North 1, Group 5 playoffs. The win enabled Union High School to snap a four-game losing streak and advance to the sectional semifinals where it was defeated at eventual champion Passaic County Technical Institute for a 5-6 finish.
“He’s gone through some growing pains, but he has a lot of talent,” interim head coach Jason Scott said of King.
King has thrown for more than 2,000 yards his first two varsity seasons, with 17 touchdown passes and nine interceptions. His completion rate is right around 50 percent.
Returning offensive linemen include senior tackles Kervin Desir (6-5, 150) and Babadara Olowe (6-2, 260) and center Bacmicho Exuma (6-4, 240). They are also starters on defense, with Olowe and Exuma on the line and Desir as a back.
“We have a pretty strong senior class, including three returning offensive linemen,” Scott said.
Scott will have Union running a multiple formation and spread stuff on offense while he will keep the defense at its 4-3 scheme.
Returning at fullback is senior Dallas Tullis (5-9, 219).
One King target to move the chains is senior Dakari
Dugger (5-8, 185), who also excelled on defense in the secondary a year ago. Dugger was in on 80 tackles, including 51 solo and 29 assisted. Dugger had two quarterback sacks among his five tackles for losses.
Other wide receivers include junior Jaydon Forbes (5-10, 135) and sophomore Elijah Greene (6-0, 155).
Playing quarterback in Union’s home scrimmage vs. Wayne Hills, Passaic and Montclair high schools was junior Matthew Nigro (5-11, 155).
“He got some good work in,” Scott said. “I was also happy with the way we ran the ball, including junior Zaire Nash.
“I like how we adjusted defensively and I like how we handled ourselves. It was a good day of work.”
One of Union’s top players back on defense is senior outside linebacker Bryan Accinot, who will also see some time on offense at fullback. Last year, Accinot had 93 total tackles, 60 solo and 33 assists, including 10 for losses.
“Bryan works hard and is a big leader on our team,” Scott said. “Any coach would love to have a player like him on their team. He does what he has to do, works very hard and it shows on the field.”
When Lou Grasso Jr. stepped down as head coach to be the athletic director at his native Colonia High School, effective Monday, July 1, Scott was named as the interim head coach, promoted from within.
Scott joined Grasso’s staff in 2018, after being an assistant coach at his college alma mater Montclair State for seven years.
“I’m really excited about this opportunity and the direction the team is going,” Scott said. “It’s both exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time.”
“Right now, the focus is our first game,” Scott said.
Union opens Friday, Aug. 30, at Seton Hall Preparatory School in the first meeting ever between the Union County and Essex County polished programs.
“I like where we are as a team,” Scott said. “We’re excited to go to Seton Hall Prep. It will be a great test to see where we are as a team.
“It will be a tough game for us. We’re hoping to get rid of game one mistakes before we get to game one. I think the kids are excited for it.”
Union opens with three straight road games, which doesn’t happen often, before facing Westfield High School on Friday, Sept. 20, in its home-opener.
“Starting with three straight on the road is not ideally what you like, but you have to play on the road eventually,” Scott said.
Captains this year include seniors Zion Lake, Tullis, Dugger, Desir, Exuma and Olowe.
Union Farmers 2024
• Friday, Aug. 30, at Seton Hall Prep, 1 p.m.
• Friday, Sept. 6, at Hillsborough, 7 p.m.
• Saturday, Sept. 14, at St. Joseph’s, Metuchen, 1 p.m.
• Friday, Sept. 20, Westfield, 7 p.m.
• Friday, Sept. 27, Hunterdon Central, 7 p.m.
• Friday, Oct. 4, at Ridge, 7 p.m.
• Friday, Oct. 11, at South Brunswick, 6:30 p.m.
• Friday, Oct. 18, Phillipsburg, 7 p.m.
• Friday, Oct. 25, Elizabeth, 7 p.m.
Interim head coach: Jason Scott
BCC division: American Gold
Section: North, Group 5
Union is guided by interim head coach Jason Scott at left and led by, from left, Kervin Desir, No. 54; Bacmicho Exuma, No. 53; Dakari Dugger, No. 10; Babadara Olowe, No. 53; and Dallas Tullis, No. 8.
Photo by JR Parachini
