County of Union, New Jersey

The annual Master Gardeners of Union County Spring Garden Fair and Plant Sale will be held on Sunday, May 15, from noon to 4:00 p.m., in the Union County Demonstration Garden at the Trailside Nature and Science Center. Trailside is located in the Watchung Reservation at 452 New Providence Road, in Mountainside.

The Garden Fair is a popular community tradition featuring native plants for sale along with hundreds of other flowering plants and shrubs, vegetable seedlings, educational displays and a chance to explore the many unique and unusual beds of the sprawling Demonstration Garden.

“The Master Gardeners are well known for their many contributions to the Union County community, and the Garden Fair is one of them. We are very proud to welcome this wonderful event back to the Watchung Reservation,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams.

All proceeds from sales at the Garden Fair go to support community service projects of Master Gardener volunteers, including donations of fresh produce to local food pantries, educational events for youth and adults, programs for people with special needs, and more.

Admission is free and parking is free.  Attendees are advised to bring a wagon or cart to convey their purchases.

Please note that all sales are cash only; credit cards are not accepted. Pets are not permitted in the Demonstration Garden.

In addition to plants for sale, the 2022 Garden Fair will feature displays of Square Foot gardening and hydroponics, a clinic for plant and insect problems, soil test kits for sale, and guidance from the Union County Mosquito Control Bureau.

The Master Gardeners of Union County is a community volunteer organization run by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County with support from the Commissioner Board. No experience in gardening or horticulture is needed. Prospective volunteers take a training course each spring leading to certification as a Master Gardener.

For more information about the program, contact County Extension Agent Madeline Flahive at mflahive@ucnj.org.

For information about all Extension programs in Union County, including Master Tree Stewards, Environmental Stewards and 4-H youth clubs, visit ucnj.org/rce.

Quick links to all Union County programs related to gardening, sustainability and nature conservation are available at The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

On Wednesday, May 4, a new state law called the “Bag Ban” goes into effect. When it does, supermarkets will not hand out any free, single-use paper or plastic shopping bags. Customers will have to bring their own shopping bags, or purchase them at the supermarket.

Other retail stores and restaurants can continue to provide free paper shopping bags, but they will not be allowed to provide free plastic bags.

“The new statewide Bag Ban is going to be a big change for many shoppers. We hope to help make the transition easier by sharing some tips on how to adjust to reusable bags,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams.

To help remind shoppers, Union County has produced the new “Grab a Bag,” video, now playing on Union County’s YouTube channel at youtube.com.

Individuals, schools, organizations and businesses are invited to share the video link free of charge.

Among the recommended tips are: hanging a supply of reusable bags by the door, placing some bags in the car, and keeping a lightweight bag in a pocket, purse or backpack in case of unexpected errands.

The Bag Ban comes under the heading of New Jersey Public Law. 2020, c 117, a comprehensive state law intended to reduce waste, litter and pollution. The provision dealing with single-use plastic bags applies to all retail stores in New Jersey. The provision dealing with single-use paper bags applies to grocery stores larger than 2,500 square feet.

The law was enacted in 2020, providing retailers and the public with two years to prepare for the change to reusable bags.

Details about the law are available from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection at nj.gov/dep/plastic-ban-law.

Business owners and managers can find additional information at business.nj.gov/bags/plastic-ban-law.

For information about free County-sponsored recycling events and other recycling programs in Union County, visit the Union County Bureau of Recycling and Planning online at ucnj.org/recycle or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889.

For quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities visit The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

The Union County Board of Commissioners invites residents to enjoy a sensory friendly production of the beloved ballet Cinderella, performed by the New Jersey Ballet at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 7 at the Union County Performing Arts Center, located at 1601 Irving Street in Rahway.

The performance is part of the Sensory Friendly Theatre series sponsored by the Commissioner Board. All tickets are $8.00 per person and must be purchased in advance. To buy tickets online visit ucpac.org; do not use any other website.  Attendees can also call the box office at 732-499-8226 to buy tickets in advance.

“Sensory Friendly Theatre brings inclusive, enriching live performances to children with special needs, and we are delighted to welcome the New Jersey Ballet to our community,” said Commissioner Board Chair Rebecca Williams.

Cinderella is One of New Jersey Ballet’s most popular productions for children. During a two-act romp through the classic fairy tale, the hours of the clock come to life and dance, a Fairy Godmother and Fairies of the Four Seasons make an appearance, and the pumpkin turns into a coach.

Splendid sets and costumes, glorious dancing, and New Jersey Ballet’s hallmark “Storyteller” narration ensures that everyone can follow the story with ease.

Please note that COVID-19 safety regulations are in effect for all performances at UCPAC. For details visit ucpac.org/covid-19. Those reserving tickets are advised to check for updates prior to arriving at the theatre.

The Sensory Friendly Theatre series showcases exciting live performances in a welcoming, judgement-free environment for children with autism and other sensory sensitivities. Audiences can expect relaxed lighting and sound along with other adjustments and supportive services during the performance. For complete details visit ucpac.org/sensory-friendly-theatre.

To see a list of additional recreation activities for persons with disabilities and special needs sponsored by Union County, and to sign up for programs, visit the secure registration page at ucnj.org/reserve.

To contact the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs use the online form at ucnj.org/dhs or call 908-527-4807.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

 

Early in-person voting will be conducted by voting machine at seven polling sites in Union County.

Union County, NJ — The Union County Board of Elections informs voters that early in-person voting in New Jersey will begin June 3 for the 2022 Primary Elections. Early Voting will take place June 3-5 for the Primary Election. Voting Hours for the Primary Election are Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

“Early Voting in the 2021 General Election was a tremendous success.  I am proud that New Jersey has begun offering Early Voting, making voting as accessible for our voters as possible,” said Nicole DiRado, Administrator, Union County Board of Elections.

There are seven Early Voting locations around Union County:

• Cranford: Union County College, 1033 Springfield Avenue, Nomahegan Building, Room N4 (Near Guard Booth: Parking in Lot 1)
• Elizabeth: Sampson Center, 800 Anna Street
• New Providence: DeCorso Community Center, 15 E. 4th Street
• Plainfield: Union County College, Church Street, Between E. 3rd & E. 4th
• Rahway: Rahway Recreation Center, 275 E. Milton Ave, Room 112
• Roselle: Amalfe Community Center, 1268 Shaffer Avenue
• Union: Union Twp. Senior Center (relocated), 652 Rahway Avenue

Ms. DiRado reminded voters that they can call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4123 with questions.

Calling the Election Board is the best way for voters ensure they are aware of all voting options and dates available to them.

For all Union County Board of Elections information visit online at ucnj.org/ucboe, email ucboe@ucnj.org, or call 908-527-4123.

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earlier this morning, Union County officials welcomed representatives from Amazon at the Family Success Center in Rahway, NJ, as they donated 10,000 at-home COVID-19 rapid antigen tests to the County of Union.

“We would like to thank Amazon for their generous donation of these COVID-19 at-home tests,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams. “There is still a demand for these tests and there are many residents who may have trouble accessing them or affording them due to other essential costs. So on behalf of the County Commissioners, I would like to thank Amazon for their continued support to our communities, we are very grateful for your donations.”

Colin Newman, Amazon’s New Jersey Public Policy Director was in attendance to present the donation to Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams, as well as Commissioners Sergio Granados, Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Commissioner James Baker and Deputy County Manager Amy Wagner.

After surveying a number of the County’s nonprofit and senior housing partners to determine their needs, the County of Union will be distributing these test kits to different nonprofits or those in need throughout the County at various locations. Today, the Rahway Family Success Center received 500 of these kits, and following the presentation, Commissioners and officials visited the Neighborhood House, Second Street Youth Center and Mount Olive, all in Plainfield to distribute more kits.

“We’re proud to support the Union County community by providing COVID-19 rapid antigen tests,” said Colin Newman, public policy director at Amazon. “Regular and accessible testing during the pandemic continues to help keep our communities safe and healthy and allows for important services, like those provided by Family Success Centers, to continue.”

Amazon donates these COVID-19 tests to Union County in support of its continued pandemic response to ensure communities across the country have access to reliable at-home COVID-19 testing. In an effort to continue to combat this virus, the County continues to offer COVID-19 testing, vaccinations and booster shots at various locations or mobile units throughout the County.

For more information and updates on all Union County services regarding OVID-19, including free vaccinations, free testing, emergency food distributions and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19.

Earlier this week, Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams, Commissioners Sergio Granados and Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded kicked off the 2022 season of the Fresh Start Program at The Salvation Army in Elizabeth, located at 1005 East Jersey Street. This program provides shower, laundry and restroom facilities to persons who are in need, along with guidance and resources on additional services that foster self-sufficiency.

“At the time of the launch in 2021, this program was the first mobile service of its kind to be offered in New Jersey,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams. “There are many people who have fallen on hard times and don’t always have access to a hot shower or hygiene supplies, which can be detrimental to their self-confidence. This mobile unit not only provides them with access to these amenities, but can also make a positive impact on their overall wellbeing, bringing a sense of joy and self-esteem.”

The main focus of Fresh Start is a mobile trailer equipped with bathroom and shower units as well as laundry facilities. It has three non-gender specific shower and bathroom units, one of which is ADA compliant as well as two washing and dryer machines.

“Access to laundry and shower facilities on a regular basis can be a barrier for both low-income and homeless individuals.  A hot shower and clean clothes can change a person’s whole demeanor and outlook on life,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Union County Human Services Advisory Council.  “Between laundry services, and access to a hot shower, the Fresh Start Program also features community providers with resources like housing, employment opportunities and supportive services.  These services can help those in need to get back on their feet and onto a path of self-sufficiency.  I am so proud to be a part of this initiative.”

In collaboration with community partners, Fresh Start coordinates a wide variety resources within County government including the Division of Social Services, Division of Outreach & Advocacy, Division of Individual & Family Support Services, as well as local non-profit providers. It serves as a portal to a continuum of resources for Union County residents, such as emergency shelter, food, clothing, mental health, housing and employment assistance.

The program will run from now until October, visiting various agency or faith-based organizations (to be announced) throughout Union County.

If an organization is interested in hosting the Union County Fresh Start Mobile Program at their location, a request via email can be sent to freshstart@ucnj.org. For more information, please visit Union County Department of Human Services at https://ucnj.org/dhs/fresh-start.

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For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form. Connect with Union County on social media.