UNIONLEADER
to Jazz and Roots Music Festival
Music lovers from across the region gathered at Kean University’s East Campus on Saturday, Sept. 21, for the annual Jazz and Roots Music Festival, a free, outdoor celebration that united the community for a day of lively music, food and festivities.
Under a bright sun over The Lawn at Enlow Hall in Hillside, festival-goers enjoyed jazz, blues and reggae at the event, which Kean has hosted since 2021 in its role as an anchor institution and cultural hub in northern New Jersey.
“Today is an example of Kean University anchoring down, making sure the community understands we appreciate them,” said Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet. “We are rooted in the community. We do this free concert every year so we can come together at a great cultural event, and everyone can see our beautiful campus and get to know Kean better.”
The festival featured a stellar lineup of musical talent. Headlining the event was the Grammy-nominated reggae band Third World. Performers included jazz musicians Stefon Harris and Blackout; Harlem-born guitar phenom Solomon Hicks; and DJ Prince Hakim, whose energetic beats kept the audience dancing throughout the day.
“The festival is growing in prominence,” said festival producer and renowned bassist Mike Griot, who has helped guide the event since its inception.
“Who knows how big this can get? All of the acts are great, and our headliner, Third World, is one of the most iconic groups in reggae. I am so happy to bring this remarkable event to our audience.”
In addition to the music, attendees enjoyed picnicking on the lawn and exploring food trucks and vendors. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as
See JAZZ, Page 8
Photos Courtesy of Kean University
Above, iconic reggae band Third World performs at Kean University’s Jazz and Roots Music Festival, a free outdoor concert of jazz, blues and reggae, on The Lawn at Enlow Hall, on Kean’s East Campus. Below, jazz artists Stefon Harris and Blackout on stage at the Jazz and Roots Music Festival on Saturday, Sept. 21.
VOLARÉ Institute selects Kean as it fetes Hispanic Heritage Month
Kean University’s national profile as a Hispanic-Serving Institution continues to rise, marked by its recent selection for the VOLARÉ Institute, a new research initiative designed to advance participation in STEM fields at HSIs.
This honor places Kean among only 21 institutions nationwide chosen by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities for this prestigious opportunity, further underscoring the university’s commitment to empowering Hispanic students and fostering academic excellence.
“Kean’s selection for the VOLARÉ Institute highlights our growing role as a leader in the Hispanic higher education community,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet. “As New Jersey’s urban research university, we are proud to be at the forefront of supporting significant research for the communities we serve, driving student success and building a future where Hispanic students thrive in STEM fields and beyond.”
The VOLARÉ Institute’s goal is to cultivate a new generation of researchers at HSIs, especially in STEM disciplines. Kean’s participation aligns with the University’s broader mission of advancing equity and inclusion for underserved communities.
The initiative also comes as Kean celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with record enrollment and powerful student support programs.
Kean University welcomed an increase
Kean was one of 21 universities nationwide selected for the prestigious research-focused Institute, reflecting the university’s rising national profile as a Hispanic-Serving Institution.
of more than 500 Hispanic students this fall, bringing the total Hispanic student enrollment to 5,178 – about 37% of the total student body.
This reflects a 10% increase in Hispanic enrollment for the 2024-2025 academic year, with Hispanic women now representing nearly one in every four students at Kean.
Kean Vice President of Administration Carlos Rodriguez said data show 66% of Hispanic college-bound students nationwide choose HSIs due to the unique cultural, academic and social connections these institutions offer. An HSI is defined
by the federal government as an accredited, degree-granting, public or private nonprofit institution of higher education with 25% or higher total undergraduate Hispanic or Latino full-time equivalent student enrollment.
“At Kean, we have built the infrastructure to support Hispanic student success, from the SUPERA Spanish Speaking Program to culturally significant events like ¡Celebrando Graduación Juntos!,” Rodriguez said. “We are a strong and growing HSI, and our participation in programs like the VOLARÉ Institute positions us to continue lead-
ing in Hispanic education.”
Kean’s commitment to Hispanic students extends beyond the classroom. The university’s Center for Raising Excellence and Cultural Empowerment, a new Hispanic leadership institute set to launch this year, will focus on developing Hispanic leaders through innovative education and mentorship.
Kean also joined the National Latino Student Success Network in April as part of Excelencia in Education’s mission to bolster Latino student success.
Rodriguez and others from Kean are also engaging with national policymakers to advocate for Hispanic communities during this week’s Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute conference in Washington, D.C.
Viviana Zambrano, director of Kean’s Office of Student Retention and Educational Innovation, is part of the delegation. As an immigrant and first-generation graduate, Zambrano says she sees her role at Kean as more than a job – it’s a mission to support and inspire the next generation of Hispanic leaders.
“Representation matters deeply,” Zambrano said. “It gives our students role models who understand their cultural, academic and personal challenges. Attending the CHCI conference allows me to better understand how national policies affect Hispanic students and how we can leverage that knowledge to improve student outcomes at Kean.”
Photo Courtesy of Kean University
Riding For Warriors wraps up 10-day motorcycle journey
The 10th annual Riding For Warriors wrapped its 10-day motorcycle journey raising $51,000 for Hope For The Warriors. For the 10th year, the ride was led by Air Force veteran and Hillsboroughbased Michael Nehlsen and joining this year was U.S. Marine veteran Maj. Gen. Jim Kessler and his wife, Debbie. The event was sponsored by Union-based Hillmann Consulting.
Hope For The Warriors is a national nonprofit dedicated to restoring a foundation of stability, strength and community for post-9/11 veterans, service members and military families.
This year’s 1,600 mile European journey began in Geneva, Switzerland, and traveled through France with multiple stops, including Macon, Bourges, Le Mans, the D-Day Normandy Beach areas, Mont Saint-Michel, La Rochelle, Lourdes, Montpellier, Lyon and winding up back in Geneva, all aiming to raise awareness and funds for post-9/11 veterans and their families for the Hope For The Warriors’ Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarship program.
Since 2006, Hope For The Warriors has awarded Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarships twice a year. The program recognizes and rewards post-9/11 spouses and caregivers for their strength, fidelity and resolve despite adversity as they assume critical roles in the financial wellbeing of their families.
Proceeds from the ride are benefiting
The Riding For Warriors Scholarship Fund, sponsored by Hillmann Consulting LLC, and Michael Nehlsen, funding three military spouse and caregiver scholarships for multiple semesters. The goal of the scholarship fund is to award recipients for multiple semesters, allowing them to achieve their educational
goals without interruption.
The continuous scholarships military spouse and caregiver recipients include Laura Hentig, based in Colorado, who is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in health science; Florida-based Leslie Blankenship, who is pursuing her associate’s degree in nursing; along with Alaska-
based Brenda Higgs, who is studying for her bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Additional funds will also be donated to the overall Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarship Program fund and allocated to those pursuing Restoring Self Scholarships – bachelor’s degrees – and New Beginnings Scholarships – certificates and associate’s degrees.
“This program is vitally important to me for numerous reasons, but the primary reason is that we must never overlook the military family,” said Nehlsen. “This program offers military spouses and caregivers the opportunity to pursue their educational and career aspirations, which are often put on hold while they care for an injured military family member.”
In 10 years, Nehlsen has traveled more than 38,600 miles on his motorcycle, raising more than $520,700 for Hope For The Warriors’ programs.
“The Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarship program is very dear to us and it was one of the first established programs at HOPE over 18 years ago,” said Robin Kelleher, founder and CEO of Hope For The Warriors.
“We’re in awe of Michael’s support to HOPE through the years with his annual ride ranging across the United States and now through Europe with Maj. Gen. Kessler. The funds he raises are truly impactful but so is the awareness he’s bringing to HOPE and the military families that we serve.”
Photo Courtesy of Erin McCloskey
From left are U.S. Air Force veteran Michael Nehlsen and U.S. Marine veteran Maj. Gen. Jim Kessler on Normandy Beach in France.
‘Diversion’ is a medical thrill that is sure to captivate
By Daniel Jackovino Staff Writer
Premiere Stages, the professional theater company in residence at Kean University, is now presenting, “Diversion,” the final play of its season. This is the story of four ICU nurses, three women and one man, in a hospital’s intensive care unit; their supervisor and a data specialist. Drugs have gone missing or been diverted and the work of the data specialist will be used to underpin an investigation. So “Diversion” is something of a detective story.
But to leave it at that is to short-change an effective play about caring workplace relationships among medical professionals who have problems of their own, in dire situations where a real danger is their own “moral injury” – making decisions that may determine who will live or die.
At the outset, when the unit is informed that drugs are missing and the nurses are prime suspects, there is protestation: The last time drugs disappeared, a doctor was the culprit. So, we have a culture of medics walking a line between being Florence Nightingales or patients themselves. “Medice, cura te ipsum” is in the dialogue – “physician, heal thyself.” When dealing with pain, drugs can tempt anyone.
There is one stage set, a brightly lit staff room on the corridor of a ward. It is very effective because, right off, it tells you
are clear-cut. There is Amy, played by DeAnna Lenhart, the no-nonsense, longest-tenured nurse with high concern for the unit. Michelle Liu Coughlin plays Jo, the data specialist. A failed pediatric oncology nurse, she’s a little scary, but only because of her job. Her entrance on New Year’s Eve is memorable.
Lucas Iverson plays Mike, the only male cast, and he is perfect; a great comedic sense. Playwright Scott Organ, in a talkback, said he had planned on an allfemale cast, but decided to have one male. Good decision.
Edie Salas Miller plays Mandy, the sleepy, novice nurse who reveals hidden wisdom by play’s end. Dani Nelson plays softhearted Emilia, considered the best nurse in the unit; the most self-sacrificing. Jeaniene Green is Bess, the unit supervisor. When she makes her first entrance to confront the nurses about the drug issue, even before her first line, she is absolutely three-dimensional. You know this woman.
hospital pressure is unremitting and, also, in this case, personnel are under the microscope. Another thing about a hospital set and a delight to discover is that, because of their responsibilities, the play-
wright can have characters enter and exit realistically at any time. The show is 90 minutes, with no intermission or attention lapses.
The cast is exquisite and the characters
The play was directed by John Wooten, who must use a tuning fork, because the show is pitch-perfect and the details in an action are always essential. But certainly the actors deserve credit here, too. Wooten is also the producing artistic director for Premiere Stages. Lighting was by Zack Gage; scenic design was by Bethanie Wampol Watson.
“Diversion” ran until Sunday, Sept. 22.
Photo Courtesy of Mike Peters
From left are Dani Nelson, Michelle Liu Coughlin and DeAnna Lenhart in the Premiere Stages 2024 production of ‘Diversion,’ which is the final play of the season for the professional theater company.
Township Committee meets
The Union Township Committee will meet on Tuesdays, Oct. 8 and 22, to have a conference at 6:30 p.m., followed by a regular meeting at 7:30 p.m., in the Municipal Building, 1976 Morris Ave., Union.
Board of Adjustment meets
The Union Zoning Board of Adjustment meets on Wednesdays, Oct. 9, 16, 23 and 30, at 7:30 p.m., in the Municipal Building, 1976 Morris Ave., Union.
Board of Health to meet
The Union Board of Health will meet on Wednesday, Oct. 9, at 6 p.m., in the Municipal Building, 1976 Morris Ave., Union.
Planning Board to meet
The Union Planning Board will meet
on Thursday, Oct. 24, with a conference at 6:30 p.m. in the Conference Room, followed by a hearing at 7 p.m. in the Main Meeting Room, both in the Municipal Building, 1976 Morris Ave., Union.
Trunk or Treat to be hosted
On Sunday, Oct. 27, from 1 to 4 p.m., the annual “Trunk or Treat” event will be taking place in the parking lot of Union Police Department headquarters, 981 Caldwell Ave., Union.
For any additional information, contact the Community Policing/Bike Unit at 908-851-5252 or email communitypolicing@uniontownship.com.
Mark Cuban Foundation, Elizabethtown Gas bring AI Bootcamp to Union teens
The Mark Cuban Foundation, in partnership with Elizabethtown Gas, is offer-
ing the only artificial intelligence camp of its kind, free of charge, to high school students in Union.
With a custom and highly relevant curriculum focused on teaching students about the latest developments in the world of AI and Generative AI, the camp will provide the tools to make these technologies work for them while educating, inspiring and fueling the next generation of AI professionals.
This year’s bootcamp, taking place at the Elizabethtown Gas Union office, on
Nov. 2, 9 and 16, is hosted and staffed by Elizabethtown Gas. Elizabethtown Gas is a subsidiary of SJI and delivers safe, reliable, affordable natural gas to more than 300,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in parts of Union, Middlesex, Sussex, Warren, Hunterdon, Morris and Mercer counties.
Elizabethtown Gas is one of 25+ companies to host camps across the United States.
Applications for the boot camp are now open at: markcubanai.org.
UNIONLEADER
Publisher: David Worrall
Jazz and Roots Music Festival draws thousands of visitors
(Continued from Page 1)
families, Kean students and community members celebrated a shared love of music.
Tracy Burwell, a Kean sophomore computer science major from Union, attended for the first time.
“This is a beautiful event. I'm wowed by it,” she said. “The music is great, and the vibe is very chill and relaxing but very energetic as well. All the tables and unique clothing for sale are amazing, too.”
Ron Summers, of Union, attended the event for the second time. This year, he and his family came equipped with a tent and food as they settled in for a day of music.
“There aren’t many fall events like this where you can hang out from the afternoon into the evening, hear really good jazz music, and be around a bunch of people who just want to have a good time. So that's why we're back,” he said.
Marlene Richardson, of Hillside, and about a dozen friends made sure to scope out the best location at the event. They claimed their front row center spot more than two hours before the concert began.
“Everything is wonderful,” she said. “It's a nice outing, and it’s free! It’s definitely a good time.”
The festival’s performers each brought unique flair. Reggae legends Third World delivered a powerful set that had the audience swaying to their signature island rhythms and Hicks, a rising star in the blues world, captivated listeners with his soulful guitar work.
“Anytime you’re around nature, you just feel more grounded and close to a higher power. It was a beautiful day,” Hicks said. “I had a sense of peace, with the sun shining and the crowd enjoying the music. It was over too fast.”
Steve Cochran, Kean Stage manager, said the Jazz and Roots Music Festival shows the power of live music.
“This festival is all about bringing people together
through live music. Every year, we see how much the audience enjoys the energy and talent these artists bring to the stage,” he said. “It’s great to watch the community come out, relax and really connect with the per-
formances. We look forward to making each year even more memorable.”
The event’s sponsors included Prudential, Vermella Union, PSEG, First Bank, Union County and WBGO.
Photo Courtesy of Kean University
Blues artist Solomon Hicks signs autographs for fans at Kean University’s Jazz and Roots Music Festival, a free outdoor concert featuring jazz, blues and reggae, on Saturday, Sept. 21.
AT THE LIBRARY
Events are offered at Union Public Library
The Union Public Library is hosting several events throughout the year. To stay fully informed of library activities, sign up for the UPL newsletter at uplnj.org/subscribe-to-our-newsletter/.
The UPL main library is at 1060 Stuyvesant Ave., 908-851-5450, and the Vauxhall branch is at 123 Hilton Ave., 908-851-5451. For more information about the following programs, call the library or visit the website at uplnj.org.
Children’s events are available year-round at Union Public Library
Union Public Library will hold the following upcoming virtual youth programs. Program details are subject to change; contact the library to confirm. To register for programs, visit uplnj.org. For programs broadcast on Facebook Live, non–Facebook users should email childrensdepartment@uplnj.org for access.
• Virtual Biographical Storytime, Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Learn about important figures from the past and present at this event for all ages, which is broadcast on Facebook Live and subsequently available on Instagram. No registration required.
• Virtual Storytime, Wednesdays and Fridays at 10:30 a.m. Spend this time listening to a story and singing songs and rhymes. These events for all ages are broadcast on Facebook Live and will subsequently be available on Instagram. No registration is required.
• Take-home craft kits, weekly. The library offers different take-home projects each week. Pick up a project kit at the library and follow along with the library’s �instructional video to create a craft from home. Instructional videos available to view on Facebook and Instagram. Call 908-851-5450, ext. 4, to schedule a pickup appointment. Project kits are available while supplies last.
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• Virtual Volunteering for Teens offers virtual volunteering opportunities for teens. Send an email to teens@uplnj.org for more information.
Who to call for help
• If the lights go out: Electricity is distributed in Union by PSE&G. If power goes out in your home, the utility company can be reached at 800-439-7734.
• If you want to report a pothole: For local roads, call the town at 908-6861922. For county roads, call 908-7893660. For state roads, call 609-588-6211.
• If you need to report a wildlife problem: Call the Union Animal Control Program at 908-851-5230.
• If you need to report a gas leak: Gas is distributed in Union by Elizabethtown Gas. To report a gas leak, call 800492-4009.
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Kean achieves record enrollment in fall 2024
Kean University has achieved record-breaking enrollment with more than 18,000 students from 36 states and 88 countries registered this fall, underscoring its growing position as New Jersey’s urban research university.
Kean USA campuses are experiencing a boom, with the largest transfer student population and one of the largest first-time freshman classes in the past five years. This surge reflects Kean’s rising reputation as a top choice for students seeking a transformative educational experience.
“Kean University’s continued growth in both size and prestige reflects our unwavering commitment to serving as a premier urban research university,” said President Lamont O. Repollet. “We are dedicated to creating a dynamic environment where students from all backgrounds are empowered to excel, drive innovation and make meaningful contributions to the global community.”
Kean, a Minority Serving Institution, continues to see an increase in male student enrollment, with a notable 25% rise in Black male students since 2021. The university is also serving its greatest-ever number of Hispanic female students, further solidifying Kean's commitment to inclusivity and equity as a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution.
Kean University’s global and online platforms have significantly contributed to the overall growth. Enrollment at Wenzhou-Kean University in China is expected to climb by 15% to more than 5,000 students. Kean Online is poised for a record enrollment of more than 2,050 students, reflecting the growing demand for flexi-
More than 18,000 students from 36 states and 88 countries are registered at Kean University this fall, a record enrollment that reflects the university’s rising reputation as a top choice for students and its growing position as New Jersey’s urban research university. Pictured is an unidentified building on Kean’s campus.
ble, high-quality education.
High-demand programs such as computer science, architecture and accounting are experiencing record enrollments, reflecting the university’s strong focus on providing relevant, career-oriented education.
In the Department of Health and Human Perform-
ance alone, enrollment has surged from about 250 students in 2020 to nearly 900 today.
Michael Salvatore, senior vice president for administration, said the university has developed a number of programs to improve retention and support students along their educational journey.
The freshman class that started in 2020 just achieved the best four-year graduation rate at Kean in the past decade, exceeding all other cohorts.
“At Kean, we draw students from a range of backgrounds who are eager to achieve their academic and career goals,” Salvatore said. “We support first-generation students and those who come from underprivileged backgrounds with a series of very intentional initiatives all designed to support their success from day one through graduation.”
Joseph Youngblood, senior vice president for external affairs, emphasized the importance of reaching nontraditional students. The university recently developed the Kean Global Education and Resource Campus to serve students older than 25 who have some college credits but no degree.
“Kean Online’s growth highlights our commitment to serving non-traditional students,” Youngblood said. “The Kean Global Education and Resource Campus helps returning students complete their degrees, closing equity gaps and boosting social mobility and employment prospects for those without a bachelor’s degree. This not only transforms individuals and families, but also strengthens communities and society as a whole.”
Photo Courtesy of Kean University
Innovative wedding trends to use for your ceremony
Technology plays a ubiquitous role in our lives and weddings are no exception.
This fall, expect weddings to incorporate technology in creative and new ways to make for memorable and unique experiences.
Going virtual
Livestreaming ceremonies allow guests to tune in from anywhere in the world, ensuring that no one misses out on the joyous occasion. Virtual reality (VR) wedding experiences can help guests witness vows and join the dance floor fun from anywhere in the world.
But the VR experience goes beyond just a Zoom check-in. It can provide an immersive experience for those at the wedding site. Wedding Cinematographers explains, “With VR, you can design your dream wedding in fantastical landscapes or impossible settings. Fancy exchanging vows on a serene beach at sunset, atop a mountain or even in a recreated scene from your favorite move or book.”
Interactive options
Couples are opting for interactive guest book experiences that allow guests to leave personalized messages, photos and videos online. These digital keepsakes can be accessed anytime, serving as a cherished memento of the wedding day.
There is also a rise of interactive wedding websites, where couples can effortlessly share important details, accept RSVPs and give updates to guests, creating a seamless and engaging experience for all.
From coordinating schedules to managing guest lists, personalized wedding apps streamline the planning process. With AI-driven features, these apps can even generate personalized vows based on the couple’s love story and preferences.
Revolutionizing imagery
Capture aerial shots of the fall foliage and wedding venue with drone photography. These perspectives provide a unique visual narrative of the wedding day, immortalizing precious moments from a bird’s-eye view. Also making appearances at weddings are holographic displays, where couples showcase images in 3D form, adding a touch of futuristic flair to the celebration.
More technology
Transform the dance floor into a spectacle with LED dance floors filled with colors and patterns. Couples can groove under the glow of neon lights, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere that enhances the celebration.
Smart wedding bands offer a modern twist on traditional wedding rings, with features such as fitness tracking, message notifications and even payment capabilities, ensuring that the bond between the couple remains connected in the digital age.
From custom cake toppers to personalized wedding favors, 3-D printing allows couples to bring their visions to life in new ways. These customizable creations add a touch of whimsy and individuality to the wedding decor, setting the stage for an unforgettable celebration. Digital invitations offer an eco-friendly and convenient alternative to traditional paper invites, allowing couples to easily track RSVPs and manage guest communications online.
No technology
Amid all this tech, some are going in the opposite direction. Phone-free weddings are becoming increasingly popular as couples seek to create intimate and distraction-free environments.
By requesting that guests refrain from using their phones during the ceremony and reception, couples hope to foster deeper connections and ensure that everyone is fully present in the moment. Phone-free weddings also allow professional photographers to capture the day’s moments without interference.
— Green Shoot Media
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Your event should be a feast for the eyes and palette
This fall, expect to see wedding cakes that are more colorful than ever.
Departing from traditional white confections, couples are opting for bold and eye-catching cakes that serve as stunning focal points of their celebrations.
From rich jewel tones to whimsical pastels inspired by the season’s palette, these colorful creations are redefining the art of wedding cake design and adding a touch of personality to every sweet moment of the day.
Kelsey Connely, owner of Downey Street Events, says 2024 wedding cakes
are bigger and better than ever, becoming true conversation pieces at weddings.
“Wedding cakes have been making a comeback after taking a backseat in the last few years to dessert displays and other unique types of dessert offerings. However, with many recent celebrity weddings showcasing gorgeous, multi-tiered wedding cakes … statement cakes that are still classically beautiful are definitely going to be a trend in 2024.”
Flowers
Dulcerella Cakes said vibrant-colored flowers on wedding cakes are becoming
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more and more popular in 2024, especially when framed by buttercream. The Knot concurs saying fresh flowers are going to make plenty of appearances to provide organic and abstract looks.
“Instead of meticulously placed clusters of blooms or elaborate flowers cascading down fondant tiers, the concept of this wedding cake trend is to use florals in a way that feels like they sprouted directly out of the cake,” wrote Samantha Iacia, editor at The Knot.
She does warn that you need to consult with your wedding cake baker and florist to choose food-safe flowers.
Celebrating the season
Fall’s kaleidoscope of colors are inspiring couples to infuse their wedding cakes with color. Deep burgundies, rustic oranges and golden yellows evoke the warmth and richness of autumn, while shades of emerald green and sapphire blue pay homage to the lush foliage that surrounds them.
For couples seeking a more whimsical and playful aesthetic, pastel hues and creative patterns are stealing the spotlight. Soft blush pinks, mint greens and lavender purples add a touch of romance and whimsy to wedding cakes, while playful patterns such as watercolor washes, marble swirls and geometric designs create visual interest and intrigue.
The colorful wedding cake trend opens up opportunity for personalization and self-expression. Couples are collaborating with talented cake designers to bring unique visions to life, sometimes by incorporating meaningful motifs, monograms or even hand-painted scenes that reflect their love story.
Each cake becomes a work of art that tells a story, allowing couples to share a
piece of themselves with their loved ones in the sweetest way possible.
Decadent flavors and textures
Beyond their striking appearance, colorful wedding cakes are delighting taste buds with decadent flavors and textures that complement the season. From spiced pumpkin and caramel apple to decadent chocolate and red velvet, couples are embracing rich and indulgent flavors that warm the soul and satisfy cravings.
Meanwhile, textured buttercream finishes, edible gold leaf accents and cascading sugar flowers add depth and dimension to each slice, creating a sensory experience that is as delightful to behold as it is to taste.
Non-traditional ideas for your wedding
Microtrends are emerging as a delightful way to infuse celebrations with personalized touches and unexpected delights.
In the realm of microweddings, where intimacy reigns supreme, couples are exploring non-traditional forms of entertainment to add an extra layer of fun and flair to their special day.
Caricature artists
Forget traditional photo booths — caricature artists are stealing the spotlight with their ability to capture the essence of guests in a playful and humorous way.
Tattoo artists
For couples with a penchant for body art, hiring a tattoo artist to provide live tattooing at their wedding adds a unique and deeply personal touch to the celebra-
tion. Whether it’s matching tattoos to commemorate their union or temporary designs such as henna that reflect their love story, guests can participate in the festivities in a truly meaningful way.
Interactive guest books
Guest books are taking on new life, with couples opting for interactive alternatives that encourage creativity and engagement. Couples can treasure these personalized keepsakes for years to come, revisiting the heartfelt messages and well wishes shared by their nearest and dearest.
Timing
At small shindigs, a wedding planner said she has seen more couples leaving behind the traditional Saturday evening weddings for more unique timing options.
— Green Shoot Media
Varsity tutors to provide resources for all students
The township of Union Public Schools on Wednesday, Aug. 21, announced a partnership with Varsity Tutors for Schools, a Nerdy company and the leading platform for live online tutoring, to provide all district students with access to the Varsity Tutors for Schools platform at no cost to the schools, students or families.
The partnership extends from now until June 30, 2030, ensuring students, educators and parents have a rich set of academic resources for school years to come.
The comprehensive platform integrates interactive study tools, collaborative workspaces, and dynamic tutoring resources, including:
• 24/7 on-demand chat tutoring;
• on-demand essay review;
• live enrichment and remediation classes;
• SAT and ACT test prep classes;
• celebrity-led StarCourse classes;
• self study resources;
• college and career readiness resources;
• adaptive assessments and personalized learning plans; and
• recorded enrichment classes.
“The township of Union Public Schools is excited to partner with the Varsity Tutors for Schools Platform starting in the new school year,” said Isabella Scocozza, director of instruction and funded pro-
grams at township of Union Public Schools.
“This is an invaluable resource for all of our students in grades kindergarten through twelfth who may need academic support and assistance.
“We are encouraging our students to take advantage of this on demand tutoring resource whether they wish to improve their knowledge of their academic coursework or would like to learn about a particular enrichment class or topic.”
More than 500 school districts across the country utilize the Varsity Tutors for Schools platform to supplement classroom learning and to effectively close learning gaps.
When students need help with homework or are struggling to solve a problem, they can immediately chat with a tutor, 24/7, to get the help they need. Students can take practice tests and follow personal lesson plans for guided self-study.
They can also sign up for expert-led live classes and learn subjects such as geometry, middle school math, elementary school reading and more, alongside their peers.
“Varsity Tutors for Schools delivers a rich set of learning options to deploy for all students,” said Anthony Salcito, chief institutional officer at Varsity Tutors for Schools.
“Our comprehensive platform access is now available to all K-12 schools at no
cost, allowing them to budget for targeted intervention with best-in-class highdosage tutoring options, including flexible implementation models that can put administrative staff, teachers, or parents at the center of the high-dosage tutoring relationship, depending on the needs of the district.”
Township of Union families can access the Varsity Tutors for School platform by visiting the Schools’ website: https://www.twpunionschools.org/. The platform is available immediately through June 2030.
IN MEMORIAM
• BASHFORD – John “Jack” Louis, of Union; Aug. 12. Worked for M & M Garage and Colonial Pontiac, toured with Van Iderstein Racing Team. Brother, 73.
• BOND – Bruce, of Scotch Plains, formerly of Union; Sept. 4. Army Vietnam War veteran. Business owner. Husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle.
• COHEN – Michael Louis, of West Caldwell, formerly of Union; Sept. 8. Finance executive, professor, racehorse owner. Husband, father, grandfather, 76.
• DURSO – Rosalie, of Monroe Township, formerly of Newark and Union; Sept. 4. Bank teller, widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, 92.
• KACZOR – Bernadette, of Union; Aug. 22. Worked for KCS Energy, ScheringPlough Pharmaceuticals and Merck. Sister, aunt, grandaunt, 70
• ROWE – Alice, of Union, formerly of South Orange; Aug. 31. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, 87.
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.
Governor honors three local organizations with letter
Gov. Phil Murphy has signed a special recognition letter honoring the House of Hearts Network, Lesniak Institute for American Leadership and Latino Action Network Foundation for their dedication to empowering youth across the state of New Jersey through the Breaking Barriers Conference.
The letter emphasizes the importance and impact of youth initiatives and commends the organizations for their commitment to uplifting high school and college students in civic engagement, education, and health and wellness.
The special recognition letter highlights the 2024 Breaking Barriers Conference initiative, spearheaded by The House of Hearts Network, with the support of The Lesniak Institute for American Leadership and The Latino Action
Network Foundation. This initiative focuses on providing opportunities for young leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue, gain valuable skills and promote positive change in their communities.
“We are honored to receive this special recognition from Gov. Murphy, which underscores the importance of our efforts in supporting and empowering the next generation of American leaders,” said Felipe Peralta, executive director of The Lesniak Institute.
The House of Hearts Network, Lesniak Institute for American Leadership and Latino Action Network express their gratitude to Murphy for acknowledging their continued efforts in supporting the next generation of leaders and share their excitement for the upcoming Breaking Barriers Conference in 2025.
Union Municipal Band hosting concert on Oct. 7
The Union Municipal Band, with the direction of Howard Toplansky will present a Fall Concert on Monday evening, Oct. 7, at 7 p.m., at Hannah Caldwell School auditorium, 1120 Commerce Ave., Union. Admission is free and the public is cordially invited to attend.
Some of the selections will include: “Our Glorious Flag,” “Melancholy Waltz,” “Toccata for Band,” “Tally Ho Overture,” “Air and Finale” from “Water Music” and many other fine musical selections.
The band would like to invite musicians, including high school students from Union and the surrounding communities, to join the group. If you are interested, call the Recreation Department at 908-686-4200.
Sponsored by the Township of Union Recreation Department, Patricia GuerraFrazier, commissioner of Recreation, and Manuel Figueiredo, mayor.
