Union Leader - October 2022

UNIONLEADER

Kean U’s largest class put on at Premiere

Zieser named the new athletic director

By JR Parachini Sports Editor

Ron Zieser is Union High School all over and has been for 30 years now.

Zieser was a Farmer student-athlete, Class of 1997, and has taught history at UHS for 18 years.

Now, he’s been named just the third UHS athletic director since the first head football coach he played for as a sophomore back in the fall of 1994. That person was Lou Rettino.

Bill Parsons succeeded Rettino, and then, a decade ago, Linda Ionta stepped into the role when Parsons retired. Ionta just retired from the position at the end of the 2021-2022 school year.

“Linda was a legend,” Zieser said. “It’s an honor to follow her. It’s also a little scary, but an honor.”

Zieser played football and baseball at Union and coached football, basketball and baseball as well. As the head coach of the junior varsity boys basketball team, he guided the Farmers to back-to-back Union County Tournament championships in 2016 and 2017.

“We got to the championship game three times, and to play at Kean and win there on that court was a great thrill,” Zieser said.

Zieser was Union’s center and a defensive tackle as a senior on the 1996 team that reached Giants Stadium for the North 2, Group 4 state championship game. Although Union lost to Montclair High School, getting there was impressive, as the fourth-seeded Farmers knocked off

Ron Zieser, 43, is the new Union High School athletic director. He graduated from Union in 1997 and has coached and taught at Union for the past 18 years.

top-seeded and 8-0 Elizabeth High School at Elizabeth’s Williams Field, 34-26, in the semifinals.

Zieser was then Union’s first baseman on the 1997 baseball team that

defeated defending champion Bloomfield High School in the North 2, Group 4 sectional state championship game. Union was then defeated by North 1, Group 4 champ Hackensack High School in the Group 4 semifinals.

Zieser was on the staff of head coach Lou Grasso Jr. in 2019, when the varsity football team won its first state championship in 26 years, capturing North 2, Group 5 for the first time.

“That was special,” Zieser said. “As a player, I got there but we didn’t win, so to win that night on our field was great.”

Zieser, who graduated from Kean University in 2002 with a bachelor’s degree in history, said he has a clear vision of what he wants to achieve first in his new role.

“We want to recruit our town,” Zieser, 43, said. “There are a lot of good athletes here and we want to keep them here.”

Zieser gave an example: 2022 graduate Davison Igbinosun, who is now playing college football at Mississippi State. Not only was Igbinosun one of the highestrated players in all of New Jersey last year, but he also had a 3.9 grade-point average.

“We have very little grade issues with our athletes,” Zieser said. “We want to continue to keep our kids involved and competing at the highest-possible level.

“We have kids who reach the Ivy League, vocational schools and the military. One of the positives of Union High School is that we have something for everyone here.

“Our goal is to have a sport for everyone.”

Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County receives a $12,000 grant from the Summit Foundation

Recently, Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County was awarded a $12,000 grant for an afterschool, trauma-informed program to assist adolescents with emotional wellness. A traumainformed approach takes constant attention, care, awareness and sensitivity.

We have all been confronted with a global pandemic, but having to attend school virtually for a prolonged period of time undoubtedly took an emotional and mental toll on our young people. The Boys & Girls Clubs, with the help of the Summit Foundation, is able to recognize that and other trauma, foster healing and resilience, and reduce retraumatization through interactions.

Kabriya Oates, director of programs, engages with the youth-club members on a daily basis.

“If a child exhibits noticeable changes in their behavior that

would result in self-harm, staff are equipped with the training to recognize such behavior and assist members in developing social-emotional skills, which are necessary for academic success, character development, and commitment to a healthy lifestyle,” she said.

The club also engages School Counselors on Wheels, an organization that, according to its website, “offers programs for youth to be equipped with skills to feel good about themselves through promoting confidence, self-love, self-awareness, relationship building skills (and) responsible decision making, so that each individual will be more connected to themselves and their communities.” The social worker from School Counselors on Wheels offers interactive presentations at the club about depression, suicide, family issues, abuse and problem solving, and meets one-on-one with the participants.

Photo by JR Parachini

Kean University enrolls largest freshman class ever for fall 2022

Kean University’s freshman enrollment this fall is projected to be the highest in the university’s history, with more than 2,000 students currently registered for classes, university officials announced last week.

The strong enrollment for full-time freshmen comes amid a drop at many other institutions across the nation following the pandemic. The average GPA of incoming freshmen is higher than 3.1.

“Kean University is nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report for our expansive innovation and the social mobility of our graduates. These incoming students see the positive impact and high value that a Kean degree will have on their lives,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet. “We are New Jersey’s urban research university, with nationally recognized faculty and facilities that are second to none. Today’s students are taking advantage of all that Kean has to offer, and together we will climb to even greater heights.”

A federally designated Hispanic-serving institution, Kean also reported record growth in its Supera Spanish Speaking Program. Incoming student enrollment for Supera increased 250 percent from 2021, reflecting a nationwide trend that shows growth in Hispanic student enrollment.

There were 1,815 students in Kean’s previous-record freshman class, in 2018. On Sept. 1, 2021, amid the challenges of

the COVID-19 pandemic, Kean had more than 1,500 new freshmen enrolled.

“Students in New Jersey and beyond have always known that at Kean University, you get an affordable, quality education,” said Michael Salvatore, senior vice president for administration. “What these numbers show is more and more students see that Kean is heading from great to elite, and they want to be part of that trajectory.”

In the past few years, the university has also invested in hiring new full-time faculty and upgrading its laboratories, classrooms and library as it pursues an R2 Carnegie research designation.

Earlier this year, Kean was designated as a professional/doctoral university by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education, reflecting the university’s increased number of doctoral programs offered and degrees awarded, and

Kean’s strong commitment to research.

The university was also designated as New Jersey’s urban research university by Gov. Phil Murphy and state lawmakers in late 2021.

Overall, there will be close to 4,000 new students at Kean USA, including Kean Online, this fall. Kean Online, well ranked for online education by Newsweek, is also seeing record enrollment.

“Kean University takes care of students through academic and financial aid support services that help them realize their dream of earning a college degree,” said Marsha McCarthy, vice president for enrollment services. “A college education is a big investment for students and their families. Kean seeks to maximize students’ return on that investment by providing an exceptional college experience that is affordable, accessible and takes students to where they want to be.”

The Kean Tuition Promise program also boosted the enrollment of lowincome students for fall 2022. The program covers as much as full tuition and fees in the first two years of study for select students who apply as freshmen and meet eligibility requirements. Eligible students could get a free four-year college education by coupling the Kean Tuition Promise with New Jersey’s Garden State Guarantee, which offers financial aid in the third and fourth years of study at New Jersey public universities.

Photo Courtesy of Kean University

Kean University’s freshman enrollment this fall is projected to be the highest in the university’s history, with more than 2,000 students currently registered for classes.

Subtle tensions work their way through ‘Scab’

By Daniel Jackovino Staff Writer

The second play of Premiere Stages’ 2022 season, “Scab,” opened at Kean University on Thursday, Sept. 8. Written by Gino DiIorio and directed by Glen Ridge resident John J. Wooten, producing artistic director of Premiere Stages, “Scab” is a play of subtle tensions apart from the strife connecting its two characters: Gilda, performed by Monica Wyche, and Eduardo, performed by John Anthony Torres.

There are reasons for the subtlety and effectiveness of the 90-minute play, which is performed without intermission.

The biggest reason is that Wyche and Torres make it evident that their characters are listening closely to each other. When actors can convey this, they will keep an audience’s attention. And clearly their characters should be listening hard to each other. The paper cup company where Gilda has labored for 25 years is shutting down and moving to Mexico. A single mother with a daughter, she is about to become unemployed. It is a bitter but high-paying pill she has had to swallow, crossing a picket line to instruct Eduardo on how to do her job as shop foreman, once the company relocates. If management deems that she has taught him well, she will receive $10,000. Eduardo, a sober young man, has a wife and two daughters in Mexico and, of course, wants to make good. While listening to Gilda, he continually scribbles notes but remains on guard for her tricks testing him.

Another note of tension is when Edouardo’s hand is injured and bandaged as a result of his being attacked by striking union workers, whose chants can be heard when the play opens. His injury is especially disquieting, since Gilda has already recalled the time a machine chewed off a co-worker’s hand. So when Edourado’s hand occasionally disappears down the throat of a choking machine to dislodge

something, cross your fingers. And Gilda, a former union representative, has been threatened, too. The word “Scab” has been spray-painted across her car. These hints of tension build into a surreal and monstrous scene near the play’s conclusion. Kudos to Wooten for this.

The scenic design, by Bethanie Wampol Watson, is also effective in con-

veying tension. The machines are just four rectangular boxes, on an otherwise barren stage, which intermittently come to life with warning lights and alarms, as though demanding to be heard. A realistic lunch room, set above and aside the work area, reinforces the inhumanity of the factory.

Another subtlety is the way DiIorio elevates the language. Gilda manages to find

imaginative curse words under every rock. Eduardo, who initially speaks a halting English, by play’s end speaks with a fluidity and refinement that, because we know much more about him, is altogether natural. He occasionally reminds Gilda that he does not speak Mexican, as she says, but Spanish. In no manner does DiIorio let the actions of his characters depart from logic.

Photo Courtesy of Mike Peters

From left are John Anthony Torres and Monica Wyche, performing a scene in the Premiere Stages production of ‘Scab’ at Kean University.

Students can join 4-H clubs to explore arts, technology and more

Union County 4-H clubs are gearing up for a new season for students in grades 1-12. Students and their families are invited to attend a 4-H club open house on Friday, Sept. 23, to meet this year’s 4-H club leaders and learn more about the topics for the 2022-2023 school year. The event includes food, activities and more.

“The 4-H program encourages students to become experts in their favorite subjects and share their knowledge with the community. It’s a unique hands-on learning and leadership opportunity,” said County Commissioner Chairperson Rebecca L. Williams. “The board of commissioners is very proud to support the 4-H program in Union County.”

Students and parents who are interested in attending the open house should register by contacting Union County 4-H agent James Nichnadowicz by email at jnichnadowicz@ucnj.org.

The open house will be at Union County’s Trailside Nature and Science Center, 452 New Providence Road, Mountainside, on Friday, Sept. 23, from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Students can sign up for a maximum of two clubs per year. A fee is charged.

Club members meet with an adult leader each month during the school year to plan activities and programs.

For the 2022-2023 school year, the full list of clubs is as follows:

• Archery, grade four and older.

• Cooking, grade four and older.

• Engineering, grades four and five.

• Gardening, grade four and older.

• LEGO Robotics with LEGO Robotics MindStorms kits, grades five and six.

• Crafts, grade four and older.

• Outdoors club, grades five through nine.

• 4-H service club, grades eight through 12.

• Sewing, grade six and older.

• 4-H club for exploring different skills and hobbies, grades one through three.

Union County 4-H is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture 4-H program. The largest youth development

program in the country, 4-H began as a way to encourage young people in rural communities to learn about innovative new farming practices. The focus on innovation and leadership continues, through age-appropriate topics and activities.

In Union County, 4-H is run by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County as part of the Rutgers New Jersey Agriculture Experiment Station. It is supported in part by the Union County Board of County Commissioners, with offices at the Union County Complex at 300 North Ave. E. in Westfield.

Additional information about 4-H in New Jersey is available at nj4h.rutgers.edu.

HOURS

Monday: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm

Tuesday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Wednesday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Thursday: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm

Friday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Saturday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Sunday: Closed

Kean University's rise in prominence as a Hispanic-serving institution was showcased as the university’s president, Lamont O. Repollet, met with education leaders in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, Sept. 21, at the same time that the state’s top-ranking Latina politician, Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz, spoke at a town hall with Hispanic leaders and alumni in Kean’s Miron Student Center.

The events took place during Hispanic Heritage Month. About one-third of Kean’s students are Hispanic.

“It was empowering to be at the White House today discussing higher education issues with a member of the Domestic Policy Council, Dr. Lena Rodriguez of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, and my colleagues at HSIs,” Repollet said. “We are tremendously proud of our role as an HSI and are grateful for the opportunity to shine a light on all that we do to support firstgeneration students.”

Earlier in the day, Repollet also joined Nasser H. Paydar, assistant secretary for postsecondary education with the U.S. Department of Education, and other college leaders, including Rutgers University–Newark Chancellor Nancy Cantor, in a roundtable discussion in Washington, D.C., hosted by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities.

Kean alumnus Jason Pleitez, Class of ’22, now a graduate assistant in the president’s office at Kean, was a stu-

dent speaker on the panel.

“My story and lineage are similar to

many students who attend Hispanic-serving institutions like Kean,” Pleitez said. “As a first-generation Latino student, I received access to many campus resources. I am grateful to have participated in this meeting with President Repollet to emphasize the importance of student support programs.”

At Kean, Sancha Gray, senior vice president for entrepreneurial education initiatives, welcomed a crowd for a Hispanic Heritage Town Hall program titled “Honoring Our Roots and Building Tomorrow’s Success.”

Ruiz, who is the highest-ranking Latina in the history of the New Jersey Legislature, delivered a keynote speech.

“Kean University, ¿Cómo están?” Ruiz began, greeting the crowd in Spanish. The Newark native talked about her rise in politics, recalling many times when she was the only Latina in the room.

“You never know when that tap is going to come on the shoulder,” said Ruiz, who was first elected to the Senate in 2007. “Sometimes you’re going to be alone, and sometimes you’re going to be

Photo Courtesy of

Whether in D.C. or at home, Kean University shows its role

the only woman of color in the room. We have to do things twice as hard, get louder, do it stronger and repeat it. I feel like I’m the defender of the one that doesn’t have a voice.”

Kean graduate Sara Pena, Class of ’96, the director of external affairs at PSE&G and a former president of Latinas United for Political Empowerment, also offered encouragement to students.“The best advice I can give is, believe in yourself,” Pena said. “This institution showed me I can make it.”

Diana Vasquez, director of the National Internship Program and strategic initiatives at HACU, spoke about her association’s internship program, which helps Hispanic students obtain paying internships at federal agencies. She also said Kean is making itself known at HACU.

“The name of the school rings bells,” she said.

Kean alumnus and Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados, Classes of 2010 and recipient of a master’s in public administration in 2016, said it is important to have events such as the town hall.

“The goal of events like this is to usher a sense of pride for Hispanic students,” he said. “Today, more Latinos are achieving the American dream.”

The final speaker on the program was Kean Class of 2021 graduate Felipe Peralta, now a graduate student and a graduate assistant in the Office of Government Affairs and Community Partnerships.

He said that when he began at Kean, he went straight home after classes. Then he said he decided to make the most of his time at Kean, joining the Leadership Program and a fraternity, and developing swagger on campus.

“For all my Hispanic brothers and sisters, there are resources available for us. You just have to find them,” he said. “All my hard work and stress were worth it when I saw my parents at graduation.”

Photo Courtesy of Kean University

New Jersey Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz speaks at Kean University’s Miron Student Center during a Hispanic Heritage Town Hall.

Kean University’s Supera SpanishSpeaking Program has been named a national finalist for 2022 Examples of Excelencia by Excelencia in Education, an organization based in Washington, D.C., that is dedicated to accelerating Latino student success in higher education.

The Kean program, which allows students to advance in their university careers while acquiring knowledge of English through English as a second language, is one of only 20 programs in the country recognized by the group Excelencia in Education for its work serving Latino students.

A total of 93 programs — representing 17 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico — were submitted for consideration for the honor. On Thursday, Sept. 29, four of the 20 finalists will be announced as the 2022 Examples of Excelencia. Kean was recognized at the baccalaureate level.

“Kean University is extremely proud of our commitment to Latino and first-generation students,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet. “Supera is an important way that we support English-language learners on their path toward earning a college degree. We are honored and thrilled to be recognized as a national finalist for Excelencia.”

There are approximately 455 Kean students enrolled in the program this fall, said Rosa Paulino, acting director of Supera. The program provides structured study for students designed to integrate them into

university life and classes in Spanish for students in their first years at Kean.

The program is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, said Barbara Harmon-Francis, vice-president for Kean’s Division of Student Success and Retention. Graduates include teachers, nurses, dentists and newscasters.

“For 50 years, we have been leading the way for other institutions to follow a model program that empowers Englishlanguage learners,” Harmon-Francis said. “When recruiting in most high schools, you will always find English-language learners who stop to ask for information

with a friend who speaks English. When they learn about Supera, their whole attitude brightens. They know that they not only have an opportunity to earn a college degree; they can do it while mastering the English language.”

Kean deputy chief of staff Katherine Gallagher called Supera “a unique academic pathway for students.”

created in 2005, is a national authority on efforts to accelerate Latino student success in higher education. Organization cofounder and Chief Executive Officer Deborah Santiago said the work is “answering the national call to identify and invest in evidence-based practices that improve college completion."

“These 20 programs are evidencebased exemplars led by practitioners working directly with students and community that go beyond enrollment to intentionally serve students on their journey to degree completion,” Santiago said. Courtesy

Kean University’s Supera Spanish-Speaking Program has been named a national finalist for 2022 Examples of Excelencia, one of only 20 programs recognized nationally by Excelencia in Education, an organization based in Washington, D.C.

“We will leverage this national recognition to continue growing the program and expanding access to higher education for Spanish-speaking students,” Gallagher said. Excelencia in Education, which was

Dance your way through history at dance festival

The Liberty Hall Museum continues its partnership with Buggé Ballet for the Liberty Hall Dance Festival. For the fifth year, guests of all ages got to spend an afternoon outside walking through the beautiful museum grounds, enjoying 10 site-specific professional dance performances inspired by moments in history. Liberty Hall Dance Festival was Saturday, Sept. 24, from 1 to 4 p.m.

“We are thrilled to continue Liberty Hall Dance Festival with Liberty Hall Museum for the fifth year and are excited to bring a wonderful lineup of professional artists to perform in Union County!” said Buggé Ballet artistic director Nicole Buggé, who organized the dance festival.

Ten dance companies and choreographers participated in the festival. Performances took place at five different picturesque outdoor locations across the property of Liberty Hall.

“Placing the work about post-Afghanistan war military in a space so involved in the Revolutionary War brings a sense of connected generations and spirit of resilience.” said Megan Chu from Inimois Dance.

“The Liberty Hall Dance Festival is a wonderful way to showcase different forms of dance against the backdrop of the beautiful grounds of the museum. This is our fifth year partnering with Buggé Ballet and we feel so fortunate for this partnership and for the opportunity to support the arts. The festival is a great way to bring the community to the museum grounds and enjoy an afternoon of dance,” said Rachael Goldberg, executive director of Liberty Hall Museum.

Loretta Fois will perform “With Only the Clothes on Our Backs.” Fois’ piece explores anti-immigration rhetoric and policies in the United States throughout history. A political satire, the solo is full of rhythmic recitation of historical quotes, presented with complementing contemporary movements, making for an atmosphere that

plays between comic and shockingly relevant.

Additional dance companies and choreographers performing were Ariel Rivka Dance, Carolyn Dorfman Dance, General Mischief Dance Theatre, Julia Mayo,

Kathak Dance Collective, Roxey Ballet Company, SarAiki Movement Collective by Sara Pizzi and Aika Takeshima, and Sydney B. Wiggins.

Photo Courtesy of Liberty Hall Museum

UCC charter school for early college program

Union County College has announced its partnership with Queen City Academy Charter High School in Plainfield for an early college program. Students participating in the Queen City Academy partnership have the opportunity to receive their associate degree from Union County College at the same time as they earn a high school diploma from Queen City Academy. Participating Queen City Academy stu-

dents will have the option to pursue an associate degree in either engineering or computer information systems. There are currently 30 students enrolled in the program. The partnership started at the beginning of the 2021-22 school year; the first students enrolled in the early college program may graduate from college as early as 2025.

“Through our partnership with Union

(County) College, our high school students have the opportunity to begin laying the tracks for postsecondary education in advance, and we are thrilled that QCACS’ inaugural class has set the tone of excellence for this partnership moving forward,” said Danielle West-Augustin, chief executive officer of Queen City Academy Charter School. “This program undoubtedly levels the playing field for black and brown students. With early exposure to a postsecondary and STEM-focused curriculum, we hope to put our scholars on a trajectory to address inequities in education and garner success.”

Students in the program will take all classes for their first two years at Queen

City Academy. For their junior and senior years, they will also attend classes at Union County College. The partnership provides young people interested in STEM the opportunity to pursue these degrees at a younger age.

“We are excited to partner with Queen City Charter to offer students in our community this valuable opportunity,” said Union President Margaret M. McMenamin. “They will experience college courses on our campuses, and, more importantly, they may be eligible to graduate high school with an associate’s degree.”

For more information about UCC, visit www.ucc.edu.

Porchfest is set for Oct. 8 throughout Cranford

In neighborhoods throughout Cranford, the sound of live music will soon float through the air, bringing music lovers together for the annual Porchfest event on Saturday, Oct. 8, with a rain date of Saturday, Oct. 15.

The event takes place on porches from 1:30 to 5:15 p.m., with a finale at Eastman Plaza at 5:45 p.m.

Porchfest is a family-friendly neighborhood music festival that started six years ago as a way for the Cranford community to connect over music. It is sponsored by the Cranford Community Connection.

Forty bands will perform on 10 porches throughout Cranford.

Each year, the event gets a bit bigger. Bands often come back year after year, bringing their fans with them.

The porches are located in all areas of town, so that all Cranford residents have a chance to catch live music in their neighborhood.

For more information, visit Porchfest’s website at cranfordporchfest. wixsite.com/porchfest.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners has announced that Union County and the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority are funding a study aimed at preparing for an increase in electric vehicle ownership in Union County in the next 10 years. The growth in EV ownership is anticipated to lead to an increased demand for convenient EV charging sites throughout New Jersey.

“Our goal is to ensure that recharging an EV is just as easy and convenient as filling up with gasoline. By planning for more charging locations, we will be in a better position to support residents and make EVs a more viable choice as they become more affordable and popular,” said Union County Commissioner Chairperson Rebecca L. Williams.

In addition to meeting overall demand for convenient EV charging sites, the study aims to place the county in position to have the needed infrastructure with respect to traditionally underserved communities. The study will attempt to address the challenge of sufficient charging equipment locations for residents renting in multifamily residences and larger developments.

The Union County study will prioritize public outreach and input. On Friday, Sept. 23, the project page will be launched on the county’s website, ucnj.org/evstudy. The project page will include a survey and mapping tool to gather information from the public on where they believe new charging sites should be located.

All members of the public will be invited to participate in the survey, including

individual residents as well as those representing businesses, schools, civic organizations and local governments. When completed, the study will show where EV charging infrastructure should be located in the next 10 years by considering areas of highest demand and need. New Jersey has set a goal for December 2025 to have 330,000 registered passenger EVs and at least 400 public fast chargers throughout the state. The chargers are to be distributed to no fewer than 200 locations.

There are currently three different EV charging options, depending on the driver’s needs. Drivers who charge their EVs at home can use a Level 1 charger. These take several hours to fully recharge a battery, but they are relatively inexpensive and can be run on an ordinary household outlet.

Union starts vehicles charging study Courtesy of Kelly Martins

The faster Level 2 chargers are more appropriate for public use. Level 2 chargers require a heavy-duty outlet, of the type used by refrigerators and other large appliances.

The fastest charger currently available is the Level 3, also called direct-current fast charging. This is a purpose-built power source, which cannot be supported by the electrical system of a home.

This Union County study will focus on Level 2 and Level 3 DCFC chargers, which would be publicly accessible. The county is receiving assistance on the study from a consulting team headed by French & Parrello Associates, with FHI Studio and AECOM.

For more information, contact project manager Liza Betz at ebetz@ ucnj.org.

As the state marks Hurricane Preparedness Month, held each year in September, and the peak of hurricane season, New Jersey State Police Superintendent and state Director of Emergency Management Col. Patrick J. Callahan and New Jersey Commissioner of Environmental Protection Shawn M. LaTourette remind the public about the vital importance of being prepared as the risks from these powerful storms increase as a result of climate change.

“As we approach the 10-year anniversary of Superstorm Sandy and peak hurricane season begins, it is important to remember that preparedness is everyone’s responsibility, including those with special needs,” Callahan said. “Please make time with your family and significant others to assess your current preparedness plans, whether you need to shelter in place or evacuate. You can start by building an emergency kit, packing a family go

bag and creating a crisis communication plan. The time to prepare is now.”

“We are so fortunate to live in a coastal state with many miles of beautiful beaches and rivers to enjoy,” LaTourette said.

“But we must not for a second believe that rebuilding beaches and building seawalls and levees will protect us from every eventuality that climate change can throw our way. Weather events are becoming more extreme and unpredictable. Every one of us must become smarter about the growing risks of climate change and take necessary actions to better protect ourselves and each other.”

To be better prepared for imminent weather emergencies, the state OEM recommends the following: Sign up for emergency alerts at nj.gov/njoem; register as needed on the New Jersey’s Special Needs Registry for Disasters; make an emergency kit, including at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food and water, a two-week supply of prescription medica-

tions if available, baby supplies, pet supplies, any additional items for special medical needs such as an extra pair of eyeglasses and batteries for hearing aids, important phone numbers, and car cellphone chargers; using advice from nj.gov/plan-prepare/your-kit-plan.shtml, make a family go bag in case of an evacuation order; and make an emergency plan.

To become better prepared for increasing climate change risks, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection recommends that residents purchase flood insurance; understand their flood risk; consider a buyout if a home is experiencing repeated and severe flood damage; and get “DEP weather ready” as outlined at tinyurl.com/4777243t.

Resilience planning and disaster preparedness is most effective when the entire community is involved. Resilient NJ is the DEP’s flagship resilience planning program and has regular funding opportunities for regions and municipalities to receive technical resilience planning assistance to benefit the whole community.

“For homeowners, the first steps toward resilience include learning about Resilient NJ, contacting local officials to learn more about their municipality’s climate resilience planning efforts, and taking the time to see what resources may be available to them,” New Jersey chief climate resilience officer Nicholas Angarone said. “The true keys to resilience are preparedness and education.”

Photo Courtesy of NJOEM

IN MEMORIAM

• CATENA – Frank Joseph, of Union; June 29. Husband, father, grandfather, 91.

• CRUDER – Robert John, of Roselle Park, formerly of Union; Sept. 15. Worked for Shoprite of Elizabeth for almost 30 years. Husband, brother, uncle, 65.

• DEMAREST – Barbara Gaffney, of Baton Rouge, La., formerly of Cranford; June 18. Nursing supervisor and educator, wife, mother, 77.

• FARACI – Walter Luis, of Brick, formerly of Elizabeth and Union; Aug. 29. Regional service manager of PerkinElmer. Widower, brother, uncle, 60.

• GUY – John R. Sr., of Union; Sept. 1. Was 79.

• HUDACK – Mary, of Cranford, formerly of Ireland; Sept. 5. Crossing guard, volunteer. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, 91.

• HUNT – Rosemary Patricia, of Avon, formerly of Union; Sept. 13. Administrative assistant. Wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, 87.

• MCKEVITT – Bonnie Lynn, of Westfield, formerly of Jersey City, Cedar Grove and Cranford; Sept. 6. Teacher, sister, aunt, 79.

• MEISE – Kevin Sr., of Cranford, formerly of Clark; Aug. 3. Journeyman plumber for 39 years. Husband, father, brother, grandfather, 62.

• MISUKONIS – Antonette, of Union; Sept. 18. Mother, grandmother, 79.

• SAGENDORF – Raymond, of Union, formerly of Irvington; Sept. 18. Retired line supervisor for Nabisco in Fairlawn. Brother, 60.

• SATCHER – Frankie, of Union, formerly of Newark; Sept. 9. Employed by Morris County. Guitarist. Husband, father, brother, grandfather, 78.

• WARD – Veronica I., of Cranford, formerly of New York City; Aug. 27. Devout Catholic. Widow, aunt, 94.

• WASHBURN – William F., of Hyde Park, N.Y., formerly of Winchester, Ma., and Cranford; Sept. 7. Electrical engineer. Brother, uncle, granduncle, 79.

Documentary on 9/11 Commission premieres at Kean U

The Human Rights Institute at Kean University commemorated the 21st anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks with the world premiere of the documentary “Are We Safer Today?” The film documents the bipartisan efforts of the 9/11 Commission to uncover the truth behind the attacks and offer recommendations to make the United States safer.

“This event not only serves to mark this historic milestone and commemorate the work of a commission that put the good of the country above partisanship,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet. “It also further strengthens the university’s commitment to educating our students and the greater community about the importance of civic engagement.”

Almost 150 people — Kean employees, students and members of the public — attended the free screening at Kean’s North Avenue Academic Building on Sun-

day, Sept. 11, where they also heard directly from former Gov. Thomas H. Kean, who served as chairperson of the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States, better known as the 9/11 Commission.

“I'm proud of the fact that we came together as five Republicans and five Democrats and did something together for the country,” Kean said. “We've got to hope that we serve as a beacon and people can look at what we did on this film and try to do it again.”

In the documentary, Kean said the commission was set up to fail due to a lack of time and funding, but the 10 commissioners discarded partisan politics and united around the goal of producing a fair and thorough report. Throughout their investigation, they had the full support of 9/11 families, who brought public pressure on Congress to create the commis-

sion and support its investigation.

After the film screening, Kean sat down for a conversation about the commission’s work with Sancha K. Gray, Kean University senior vice president for entrepreneurial education initiatives.

“The documentary so clearly outlines many things that we can go back and reflect on. You have underscored key tenets of what high-quality leadership should look like. We are so thankful that you were there and represented us so well,” Gray said to Kean during the event.

“Are We Safer Today?” was produced by Naptown Media in Indianapolis and was sponsored in part by Kean University.

“Many college students around the country and around the world weren’t born when 9/11 happened,” said Felice Vazquez, Kean senior vice president for planning. “It's a piece of history for them to hear about and learn about. So

bringing this film to Kean University makes it that much more valuable for our students.”

The documentary’s executive producer, Bob Massie, said preserving the experiences of the 9/11 Commission was important for history.

“I wanted their story being told in their own voices, and so we got them together. We wanted to do this for people 100 years from now,” he said.

Dozens of students were in attendance. Chevon Williams, a Kean senior from Bayonne studying political science, said she learned a lot.

“I think it was a great opportunity for Kean University students to meet Gov. Kean and see the work he did on the commission for the country,” she said. “We always talk about the beauty of when politics was still bipartisan, so getting to look at that was just so amazing.”

Above left, Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Senior Vice President Sancha K. Gray, former Gov. Thomas H. Kean and Union County Commissioner Alexander Mirabella stand together at the world

premiere of ‘Are We Safer Today?’ Above right, the former governor speaks with Kean University students after the screening of the documentary.

Photos Courtesy of Kean University

New booster shots available for residents

The Union County Board of County Commissioners announces that Union County residents age 12 years and older can now obtain the new bivalent COVID19 booster shots authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration at any vaccination clinic run by Union County.

The new bivalent boosters are made by Moderna and Pfizer. They both target the omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5, in addition to targeting the original COVID-19 strain.

“Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, this commissioner board has worked to ensure that Union County residents have access to new resources that save lives and prevent long-term health impacts. We encourage every resident to obtain a new bivalent booster shot as soon as they are eligible,” said Union County Commissioner Chairperson Rebecca L. Williams.

To be eligible for the new bivalent booster, residents must be 12 years of age or older, and must have completed their primary vaccination series, consisting of two doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, or one dose of the

Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Those who have received the new Novavax vaccine are not eligible for any booster at this time.

Children ages 5 to 11 will continue to receive the monovalent booster shots.

The vaccination clinics run by Union County welcome walk-ins for booster shots, but appointments are recommended. Residents ages 12 and up who previously scheduled a monovalent booster shot at a Union County vaccination clinic will need to make a new appointment to receive a bivalent booster.

To make an appointment online, visit the Union County COVID-19 portal at ucnj.org/covid19/ or call 908-613-7829 for assistance.

Union County residents age 12 and older can make an appointment to receive the new bivalent booster shot two months after they have completed their primary series, or two months after their last booster shot.

As a reminder, the monovalent booster shots are no longer authorized for persons 12 years of age and older. Only chil-

dren ages 5 to 11 will continue to receive the monovalent booster shots. At this time, booster shots are not authorized for children and infants younger than the age of 5.

Vaccination is the best defense against the worst impacts of the COVID19 virus. Union County residents who are not vaccinated yet are urged to begin their primary series as soon as possible and then follow up with the new bivalent booster shot — or a monovalent booster shot for ages 5-11— as soon as they are eligible.

The primary series is authorized for all adults, children and infants beginning at 6 months.

Union County’s vaccine clinics currently offer all authorized vaccines and boosters as follows.

Warinanco Sports Center, 1 Park Drive, Warinanco Park, Roselle:

• On Tuesdays, the Warinanco clinic is open only for ages 6 months to 5 years to receive the Pfizer, 6 months to 4 years, or Moderna, 6 months to 5 years, vaccine. The hours of operation on Tuesdays are 8:30 a.m. to 12:30

p.m. and 3 to 7 p.m.

• On Thursdays, the Warinanco clinic provides all vaccines and booster formulations for all age groups. The hours of operation are 3 to 7 p.m.

Plainfield High School, 950 Park Ave., Plainfield; use the Kenyon Avenue entrance:

• On Saturdays, the Plainfield High School clinic provides all vaccines and booster formulations. The hours of operation are 9 a.m. to noon except for Saturday, Sept. 17, when the clinic closes at 11 a.m.

To make an appointment for a vaccination at either clinic, visit ucnj.org/covid19. If additional assistance is needed, call 908-613-7829.

Walk-ups for booster shots are welcome at both sites, but appointments are encouraged.

Homebound residents may be eligible for a home vaccination visit. To make an appointment, call the Union County Office of Health Management at 908-613-7829 during regular weekday business hours, or leave a message after hours.