County of Union

To watch the intro video by Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon click HERE.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the return of its free summer swim lesson program at the Rahway River Park Pool, offered in partnership with The Gateway Family YMCA. The program runs from July 1 through August 21, 2025, and includes age-specific classes for children ages 3 to 12, seniors age 65 and older, and adult water exercise participants.

“Learning how to swim is a critical life skill that every child should have access to—regardless of background or income,” said Commissioner Chair Lourdes Leon. “By offering these lessons at no cost, we’re not only helping kids and seniors stay safe and active, we’re breaking down barriers and making sure every Union County resident has the chance to thrive. This is what equitable, community-centered government looks like.”

Class sizes are limited to ensure a safe and personalized experience. Youth and senior swim classes are capped at 6 participants per session, while the adult water exercise class is capped at 30 participants.

Class Schedule & Details:

Youth Beginner Classes (ages 6–12 & 3–5)

Held Thursdays: July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 and August 7, 14, 21

• 9:05 AM – 9:45 AM: Ages 6–12
• 9:50 AM – 10:30 AM: Ages 3–5
• 10:35 AM – 11:15 AM: Ages 6–12

Youth Basic Classes (ages 3–5 and 6–12)

• Tuesdays, July 1 – August 19:
  • 6:45 PM – 7:25 PM: Ages 6–12
• Thursdays, July 3 – August 21:
  • 9:05 AM – 9:45 AM: Ages 3–5
  • 6:45 PM – 7:25 PM: Ages 6–12

Senior Swim Classes (age 65+)

• Tuesdays, July 1 – August 19:
  • 6:00 PM – 6:40 PM
• Thursdays, July 3 – August 21:
  • 9:50 AM – 10:30 AM

Adult Water Exercise (all adults)

• Wednesdays, July 2 – August 20:
  • 9:00 AM – 9:40 AM
  • Maximum of 30 participants per class

Classes will be held at Rahway River Park Pool, located in Rahway, NJ. Registration is required and will be available online later this month. Residents are encouraged to sign up early due to limited space in each class.

To qualify, participants must reside in low-income households and provide proof of eligibility during enrollment. Acceptable qualifying criteria include participation in programs such as TANF, SNAP, the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Program, Medicare Part D, SSI, Head Start or Early Head Start, WIC, Section 8 Housing, LIHEAP, Pell Grants, or living in a Qualified Census Tract (QCT). Seniors aged 65 and older automatically qualify. Please note: registration will not be confirmed without proof of eligibility.

To view updated registration details and sign up when available, please visit: ucnj.org/swim. For more information, contact the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at 908-527-4900.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Parks and Recreation invite residents and friends to kick off the summer season at Rhythm & Blues by the Brook. The fun-filled afternoon event returns to Cedar Brook Park in Plainfield on Saturday, June 7th, from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

“There’s nothing like Rhythm & Blues by the Brook to kick off the summer in Union County. It’s a celebration of music, culture, and community—and every year, it brings people together in such a powerful way,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “From legendary artists to family-friendly fun, this event has something for everyone. I’m looking forward to dancing, singing, and making memories with all of you in Cedar Brook Park!”

This year, Rhythm & Blues by the Brook will be co-headlined by R&B icon Russell Thompkins Jr. & The New Stylistics and Ruben Studdard. Prior to forming The New Stylistics in 2004, Russell enjoyed a remarkable career as the lead singer of The Stylistics, performing globally recognizable songs that include “Break Up to Make Up,” “Betcha By Golly, Wow,” and Grammy-nominated classic, “You Make Me Feel Brand New.” Partnering with new, talented band members, Thompkins built upon his previous success, taking the R&B sensation The New Stylistics to soaring new heights.

American Idol season 2 winner, Ruben Studdard, will also be gracing the stage with his performance titled “My Tribute to Luther.” Known for his velvety, soulful voice, Ruben has enjoyed a flourishing career since his American Idol beginnings, releasing a Platinum debut album, “Soulful” in 2003, and seven studio albums in total. The R&B singer rose to fame with beloved tracks “Flying Without Wings” and “Sorry 2004,” and earned a Grammy nomination for his moving performance of “Superstar.”

Nineties hip-hop duo Black Sheep (“The Choice is Yours,” “Flavor of the Month”) and Latin ensemble David Cedeño & His Orchestra (“Cuando Manda El Corazón”) will also be performing. DJ Bookeem returns as this year’s Master of Ceremonies.

The event will feature a full afternoon of activities, including a Health & Wellness Fair, presented by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. – Eta Omicron Zeta Chapter, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. A Kids Zone challenge course and inflatable attractions area will be available for children from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Guests are welcome to explore the food and vendor marketplace throughout the event to purchase their favorite summer treats and refreshments. Additionally, the popular Car and Motorcycle Show Spectacular, presented by G-Wiz Auto Entertainment, will return for another year of engaging car enthusiasts.

For full schedule details and updates on Rhythm & Blues by the Brook 2025, please visit ucnj.org/randb.

For more information about all events and activities in Union County Parks, please visit the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at ucnj.org/parks, call 908-527-4900 or email parksinfo@ucnj.org.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that sample ballots for the upcoming June 10^th Primary Election will be mailed out on Tuesday, May 27^th and Wednesday, May 28^th. Voters are encouraged to review and familiarize themselves with the sample ballot in advance before casting their vote.

“The sample ballot is an essential tool for voters to understand their choices and be fully prepared on Election Day,” said Clerk Rajoppi.

A sample ballot helps voters see which offices are being contested and who is on the ballot for each. Sample ballots also provide the location of your polling place on election day, early voting sites and their hours, and instructions for use of the machines.

For more information on voting in Union County elections, please visit www.unioncountyvotes.com or call 908-527-4996.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that its seasonal recycling programs for 2025 will continue in June. Residents are welcome to take part in this free annual program, which allows for the safe and secure disposal of personal documents, scrap metals, and hazardous household items at designated drop-off locations throughout Union County.

“Our free recycling events are an easy and convenient way for residents to responsibly remove unwanted, expired, and even hazardous items from their homes, vehicles, and working spaces while helping to protect the environment,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “I encourage residents to join us in our efforts to maintain a safe and clean community by taking advantage of this valuable resource.” 

Residents are invited to securely dispose of personal documents at the following mobile paper shredding events, held from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The events will end before 1:00 p.m., should the trucks fill up first.

• Wednesday, June 4th: Clark Public Works Facility (Behind Police Department- use Wilson Road for access), 315 Westfield Avenue, Clark
• Saturday, June 14th: Plainfield High School (Arlington Avenue Lot), 950 Park Avenue, Plainfield

All documents are shredded onsite for maximum security, and the program is open to all residents, regardless of their municipality. The shredding events are intended for personal and sensitive documents only. Residents can recycle magazines, junk mail, and other papers through their municipal recycling program. Please remove all bindings, large plastic or metal clips, and other paraphernalia prior to the event (staples are allowed). Pre-shredded, damp, or wet paper will not be accepted.

Union County’s Scrap Metal Recycling Program also continues in June, providing residents with an opportunity to recycle various metal items. Drop-off events will be held on Thursday, June 5th, and Saturday, June 21st, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at two convenient locations:

• Cranford: Emergency Services Building, 151 Kenilworth Boulevard, Kenilworth
• Rahway: Rahway River Park (follow Park Drive, Rahway off St. George’s Avenue to service yard across from swimming pool)

Accepted items include refrigerators (with doors removed), metal cabinets, appliances, bicycles, aluminum scrap, air conditioners, and other metal household goods. The scrap metal program runs on the first Thursday and third Saturday of each month, April through November.

Union County’s Household Hazardous Waste event will take place on Sunday, June 1st, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and will be held at Union County Vo-Tech, West Hall/ Police Academy Lot, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains. At these events, residents can bring a variety of household chemicals for proper recycling or disposal. These items include, but are not limited to, oil-based finishes, motor oil, gasoline, propane tanks, pool chemicals, pesticides, fluorescent lightbulbs, and more. Latex (water-based) paint (wall paint) will not be accepted. Residents are advised to dry latex paint out at home using commercial paint hardener, sand, kitty litter, or sawdust. Once hardened, it can be thrown in your household trash.

All Union County recycling events are contact-free and drive-up only.  Residents must remain in their cars while staff unloads materials from their trunks.

For a complete schedule and more information on all recycling programs hosted by Union County, please visit ucnj.org/recycle/ or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889. Residents may also contact their municipal recycling coordinator for more details about recycling in their community. The free Recycle Coach mobile app provides a handy way to find out what items are included in curbside recycling programs and drop-off sites in Union County. The app provides up-to-date information on both countywide and local recycling programs. Quick links to all environmental programs and activities hosted by Union County are available at The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.

Back-to-back events in June highlight inclusivity, celebration, and community unity

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to celebrate Pride Month by hosting their annual Pride Flag Raising Ceremony and the return of last year’s successful Pride 5K and Fun Color Run, two major events this June that will uplift the LGBTQ+ community and bring residents together in support of equality, visibility, and joy.

Union County will kick off the Pride Month festivities with their annual LGBTQ+ Pride Flag Raising Ceremony on Monday, June 2nd at 1:00 p.m. on the front steps of the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth. This symbolic event will feature powerful speeches from LGBTQ+ advocates and allies, Amanda Girardi, Ferlie Almonte, and Dave D’Amico.

Amanda Girardi, owner of Sweet n Fancy Emporium in Cranford, received national attention and overwhelming support after facing boycotts for proudly displaying a Pride flag. Ferlie Almonte, international speaker, author, and 2023 Ms. NJ Senior America, is known for her workshops on resilience, reinvention, and empowerment. Dave D’Amico, Chief Investigator with the Middlesex County Department of Corrections and co-chair of the NJ LGBTQ Law Enforcement Liaison Program, is a nationally recognized advocate and educator on bias crimes and LGBTQ+ inclusion in law enforcement.

The celebration continues on Saturday, June 7th, beginning at 8:00 a.m. with Union County’s second annual LGBTQ+ Pride 5K and Fun Color Run at Oak Ridge Park in Clark. Participants of all ages and backgrounds are invited to walk, run, or roll in this vibrant celebration of Pride. The 5K is professionally timed and certified, while the Fun Color Run offers a playful experience where participants are doused with eco-friendly colored powder throughout the course. An opt-out option is available during registration for those who prefer to skip the color.

Registration for the 5K is $25 per person in advance and $30 on the day of the event. The non-competitive Fun Run is $15 per person. All registrants will receive a Pride 5K T-shirt while supplies last.

To register, please visit ucnj.org/lgbtq.

Both events are designed to promote awareness and unity, while also offering fun, education, and reflection. Resource tables, family-friendly activities, and giveaways will be available at the 5K. For questions, contact Robert Charkowsky, LGBTQ Affairs Coordinator, at lgbtq@ucnj.org or by calling 908-527-4742.

Press release updated with time adjustment for flag raising

Visit ucnj.org/falcon to cast your top four favorite names!

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites nature lovers of all ages to visit the Union County Falcon Cam at ucnj.org/falcon, where they can watch as two adult peregrine falcons raise four chicks in their nest atop the historic Union County Courthouse Tower in Elizabeth. The Union County Falcon Cam is the only live peregrine falcon cam in New Jersey and offers three unique views of the nest and surrounding rooftop area.

“We are very proud to continue partnering with the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife and the Conserve Wildlife Foundation to connect our Union County community—and communities around the world—with the nesting habits of these magnificent birds of prey,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Tuning into the Falcon Cam has become a beloved tradition in Union County. It’s more than just a livestream — it’s an educational resource, a conservation tool, and a reminder of the power of community science to connect us all to the natural world.”

This year, the public is invited to help name the four chicks that hatched in mid to late April 2025. Ten tropical fruit-inspired names have been selected in honor of Mango, the current resident male falcon. From May 23 through June 15, everyone is encouraged to vote for their favorite four names at ucnj.org/falcon, and learn more about these fascinating birds.

Mango, known for his bright orange legs and feet, has raised chicks at the Courthouse Tower since the Falcon Cam launched in 2016. Over the years, he has had three known mates. His current partner, Frida, is the resident female. Together, they continue to captivate viewers with their care and cooperation as parents.

On May 19, 2025, all four chicks were banded by a New Jersey State Biologist Kathy Clark, who determined that the group includes three females and one male. Banding is a vital conservation tool that helps researchers monitor movement, population health, and survival rates among peregrine falcons.

Tropical fruit name choices include: Coconut, Kiwi, Goji, Guava, Papaya, Olive, Avocado, Pomegranate, Jackfruit, and Lychee.

In addition to the livestream, the Union County Falcon Cam website includes:

• Updates on nest activity
• A timeline of falcon history in Union County since 2005
• Educational materials for teachers
• Information on how to protect this endangered species
• A link to ask questions and receive answers from a wildlife biologist
• Kids’ activities in the “Kids Korner”
• Behind-the-scenes footage of the Falcon Cam installation
• Updated photos, videos, and a fun, falcon trivia quiz

Peregrine falcons were once common in New Jersey, but the widespread use of the pesticide DDT in the 1950s devastated their population. After DDT was banned in 1973, peregrines were placed on the federal Endangered Species List. Recovery efforts began in the 1980s, and the species slowly began to return to the state.

Union County joined the conservation effort in 2005, after a pair of falcons attempted to nest on the Courthouse Tower roof. The attempt failed due to windy conditions, but the County partnered with the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife and Conserve Wildlife Foundation to install a nest box. Falcons returned in 2006, and the addition of live webcams in 2016 brought the falcons’ story to a wider audience.

Today, watching the annual arrival of new chicks has become a springtime ritual for thousands of residents and viewers across the globe.

For more information about Union County nature programs, visit the Trailside Nature and Science Center at ucnj.org/trailside.

To learn more about Conserve Wildlife Foundation, visit conservewildlifenj.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites families with children and teens living with autism and other sensory sensitivities to apply for the 2025 Sensory Friendly Summer Camp. The free summer camp is coordinated each year by the Department of Human Services through the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs and is uniquely tailored to provide children ages 12 to 16 and young adults ages 17 to 21 an inclusive and fun outdoor experience. The Sensory Friendly Summer Camp will run from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. during the week of August 18th through August 22nd, and will be held at the Trailside Nature and Science Center, located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside.

“The Commissioner Board and I are immensely proud to continue providing programs like our Sensory Friendly Camp for our residents,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “This camp gives our youth and teens with special needs the opportunity to fully enjoy our open spaces and take part in enriching recreational activities without the stigma or barriers. Instead, we focus on offering all the accommodations and support necessary to ensure they have an enjoyable summer experience.” 

At the Sensory Friendly Summer Camp, campers will spend a week investigating the natural world using their senses of sight, sound, smell, and touch. They will also have the opportunity to experience the Sensory Friendly Trail and learn about the plants and animals that live in the Watchung Reservation, Union County’s largest park. Each day, campers will develop an appreciation for the natural world through nature walks, hands-on activities, interactive games, scavenger hunts, arts & crafts, and captivating stories. They will also have the chance to meet live animals, spend time outside each day, and experience all of the beauty that nature has to offer.

“Under my chairmanship in 2018, Union County established the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs – the first of its kind in New Jersey – and we’ve continued to lead with purpose ever since,” said Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “This summer camp is all about giving kids and teens a chance to just be themselves – to explore, have fun, and feel included. It’s about creating meaningful moments in a space where every child is welcomed and supported.”

Prospective campers must be Union County residents with a documented disability, demonstrating independence in basic self-care tasks, such as using the toilet and feeding themselves. While the camp warmly welcomes individuals who may require occasional prompting or redirection, it is not suitable for those with a history of fleeing, aggressive, or threatening behavior, who require restraints to manage or stop behaviors, or who require 1:1 staffing.

“The Department of Human Services is proud to continue offering programs that give parents access to a free and inclusive camp experience for their children,” said Debbie Ann Anderson, Director of the Union County Department of Human Services. “We are dedicated to providing recreational opportunities that foster a welcoming atmosphere for participants and strengthen their sense of community.”

Please note that space is limited, and the application does not guarantee enrollment. In order to ensure compatibility and accommodate individual needs, the camp administration will conduct interviews prior to admission. The administration reserves the right to determine whether they can adequately meet the needs of the applicants.

To apply for the 2025 Sensory Friendly Summer Camp, visit ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.

For more information about activities and support services offered through the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn or call the Office at 908-527-4781.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce its annual Portuguese Flag Raising Ceremony, taking place on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. in front of the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth. This annual celebration recognizes the rich history, heritage, and ongoing contributions of the Portuguese-American community in Union County and beyond.

“Our Portuguese-American community has played a vital role in shaping Union County’s cultural identity, economic growth, and civic strength,” said Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “From small businesses and places of worship to community organizations and public service, the impact of Portuguese heritage is deeply rooted in our county’s story. We are proud to raise this flag in recognition of that legacy.”

This year’s program will kick off with welcome remarks by Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon, and then led by Commissioner Sergio Granados, who will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the event. Joining him for the ceremony will be local officials, community leaders, and representatives from several Portuguese-American organizations.

“As a proud Portuguese-American, it has been one of the greatest honors of my time as Commissioner to elevate and celebrate the stories of our community,” said Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados. “This event isn’t just symbolic — it’s personal. It’s about honoring the sacrifices of our parents and grandparents, and empowering the next generation to lead with pride in who they are and where they come from. As I prepare to complete my final year on the Board, I remain committed to ensuring our cultural identity is recognized and respected, not just today — but every day.”

The evening will include the singing of the national anthems of both the United States and Portugal by Margarete DeJesus of Our Lady of Fatima Church, and remarks from Commissioner Granados and invited guests including Katherine Soares, Chair of PALCUS, and Maria Carvalho, President of the Portuguese Instructive Social Club.

“As a proud native of Elizabeth and Chairwoman of the PALCUS Board of Directors, it is a deep honor to once again join in this annual celebration of our heritage through the Portuguese flag raising in Union County. This tradition is a powerful reminder of the rich contributions Portuguese-Americans have made to our communities, especially here, where our culture, values, and history are woven into the very fabric of multiple municipalities within our county. Today, we not only raise a flag — we uplift a legacy of hard work, resilience, and unity.”

The flag raising is one of several events celebrating Portuguese heritage throughout Union County, including:

Arraial at the Portuguese Instructive Social Club (P.I.S.C.) – May 31 & June 1, 600 Grove Street, Elizabeth

Elizabeth Portugal Day Parade – June 1 at 2:00 PM, starting from Union Square and ending at P.I.S.C.

PACA of Union Flag Raising – June 10 at Union Town Hall

PACA “Dia de Portugal” Celebration – June 15 at 1034 Jeanette Ave., Union

All members of the public are invited to attend the County’s Portuguese Flag Raising ceremony and join in honoring the vibrant Portuguese culture that continues to thrive in Union County.

For more information about Union County events and programs, visit www.ucnj.org.

Bilingual Poll Workers Especially Needed

Union County residents interested in helping voters at polling locations on Election Day this year have time to apply to become poll workers. Poll workers will earn $300 for the day, starting at 5:15 a.m. through at least 8:15 p.m., after the close of the polls. The Primary Election is held on Tuesday, June 10, 2025.

Poll workers perform essential services on Election Day, by ensuring every eligible voter is afforded an opportunity to exercise their constitutional right to vote.  Serving as a poll worker in the 2025 Gubernatorial Election is a great way to be involved in the democratic process!

Any Union County resident who is 16 years or older, can apply to become a poll worker.  Union County residents who are 18 years or older shall be registered to vote.

No experience is needed. New poll workers must attend a mandatory, in-person training session. Prospective poll workers can apply online or by using a paper application form.

To apply online, visit the Union County Board of Elections at www.ucnj.org/pollworker. To receive a paper application, call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4236 or email pollworker@ucnj.org.

For more information, follow the Poll Worker Resources link at ucnj.org/ucboe. For all Union County Board of Elections information visit online at ucnj.org/ucboe.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to invite residents to participate in a Plant Swap and Shop event on Thursday, June 12^th from 5:30pm to 8:00pm in the Scout Camping Area of the Watchung Reservation at Trailside Nature & Science Center, located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside.

This special event gives Union County residents the opportunity to swap up to three distinct invasive plants from their own gardens in exchange for up to three native plants, free of charge. In addition to the swap, attendees can shop a wider variety of native plants offered by Toadshade Native Plant Nursery.

“We’ve seen continued success with our Plant Swap and Shop, and we’re excited to bring it back with new options for 2025,” said Union County Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “It’s a fun, hands-on way to help residents remove invasive species from their gardens and encourage the growth of beneficial native plants that support our local ecosystems. Local events like these can have big environmental impact, and we’re proud to promote sustainability in our community.”

Invasive plants are non-native species that harm the environment by outcompeting native plants for space and resources. They reproduce quickly and thrive in a wide range of conditions. Invasive plants often lack natural predators or competitors, which allows them to spread unchecked. Over time, they can take over an area and crowd out all other species, creating a single-species environment that greatly reduces biodiversity.

Residents are invited to bring up to three invasive plants of different species and exchange them for up to three native plants, all at no cost. This year’s event will feature a new selection of native plants available for swapping, including Blue Wild Indigo (Baptisia australis), Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), Blue Lobelia /Blue Cardinal Flower (Lobelia siphilitica), Foxglove Beardtongue (Penstemon digitalis), Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), Lanceleaf Loosestrife (Lysimachia lanceolata), Cliff Stonecrop (Sedum glaucophyllum), and Bucks County Magenta Violet (Viola sororia selection).

Pre-registration for the Plant Swap and Shop is required and limited to 100 participants. Those interested are encouraged to sign up early at www.ucnj.org/plant-swap to secure a spot.

In addition to the plant swap, participants will have the opportunity to shop for native plants at the event. Pre-ordering through the Toadshade website at www.toadshade.com is strongly recommended for the best selection.

For more information about native plants in Union County, please download our free guide: “Plant This, Not That.” Questions about the Plant Swap and Shop on June 12th should be directed to park.env.services@ucnj.org.