Local Events

Robert Nichols, the owner/chief instructor of the Union UTA (Unified Training Academy) has been an avid martial artist for over three decades. He has proudly led the academy since 2001 and still has an undying passion for martial arts. His long list of accomplishments speaks volumes about his expertise in the field, with 13 black belts earned from various martial arts schools and styles. Robert was the first sanctioned SAMI Training Center owner in the US and currently holds the highest-ranking SAMI Combat Systems Instructor in America. Furthermore, he is licensed in SAMI Knife Fighting Concept, SAMI Panantukan concepts, SAMI Axe and Tomahawk Fighting Concepts, and SAMI Law Enforcement training concept. In 2019, he added SAMICS Expandable Baton Concept for Law enforcement and SAMICS Defender for self-defense to his repertoire. Robert's years of dedication and hard work have been recognized through multiple inductions into the United States Martial Arts Hall Of Fame as “Instructor of the year.” Most recently, his outstanding achievement earned him the 2021 Martial Arts Hall of Fame, “Man of the Year," and he repeated this feat in 2022. Robert Nichols is a shining example of the power of hard work and passion. His 30 year journey is a testament to his commitment to the art of martial arts and his dedication to helping others reach their goals. He has served as a leader and mentor for many and continues to strive for excellence in his practice.

At the Cherney Dance Studio, founded in 1956, we are proud to be the oldest and most established dance studio in Union, New Jersey. Our dance program has been enthusiastically accepted by the community, and we have earned an excellent reputation for providing superior dance education. We believe that dance training should be a pleasant and non-stressful experience, and we strive to discover and develop each student's unique talents. Our goal is to help each student reach their full potential, and we have continuously updated and improved our program over the years to ensure that our students get the best possible training.

At Susie Karlik’s Dance Sensation, we believe that learning to dance is an incredibly rewarding experience. Our teachers are highly qualified and passionate about their work. They use a professional dance syllabus and are continually learning new styles of dance. Our classes focus on technique, proper body placement, and muscle strengthening, as well as building confidence in our students. We encourage our students to practice and perfect their moves before showing them off in a recital, so our classes begin with warm-ups and progress across the floor. Our dancers have been recognized for their hard work, earning top overall awards, costume and choreography awards, and dance scholarships at various regional and national competitions. We have built a strong reputation for our excellent training, unique choreography, and ability to help our students reach their full potential. We invite you to join us and experience the amazing rewards that come with learning to dance.

Premiere Stages is on a mission to provide the northern and central New Jersey communities with a first-class opportunity to experience the magic of professional theatre. Through the development and production of high-quality Equity theatre premieres, professional development and educational initiatives, and the support and cultivation of emerging playwrights and theatre artists, Premiere Stages is making it possible for local residents to experience the power of theatre in a way that they never have before.

At East Coast Elite, we believe in providing an atmosphere of support and camaraderie to help our athletes reach their highest level of success. We strive to instill values such as commitment, hard work, leadership, and self-confidence through positive reinforcement. Our teams and athletes receive phenomenal cheer instruction and training, and we ensure a safe and structured practice environment. We’re dedicated to helping our athletes reach their personal goals and develop their skills through team reinforcement and encouragement. With East Coast Elite, you can be assured that your child will get the best training possible to become the best!

At Sunburst Gymnastics Training Center, your kids can stay active and healthy in a safe, fun environment. Our 17,400 square foot, air conditioned facility is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, and is family-owned and operated. Our classes are tailored to meet the needs of every child from ages 18 months to 18 years. We offer classes for both boys and girls at the beginner and advanced levels, and all of our staff members are USAG safety, first-aid and CPR certified. Enroll your kids at Sunburst Gymnastics Training Center for an enjoyable, beneficial experience. Our facility is air-conditioned, spacious and well-equipped, and our instructors are certified in safety, first-aid and CPR. We have classes to suit all levels of ability, for boys and girls from 18 months to 18 years, and all of our classes are designed to be fun and engaging. With our family-owned and operated business, your kids will be in safe hands throughout their gymnastics journey.