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El Condado De Union Ayuda a Los Residentes a Asegurar Un Nuevo Comienzo Con El Regreso De La Clínica Gratuita De Eliminación De Antecedentes Penales, El 17 De Diciembre

La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union anuncia el regreso de una Clínica de Eliminación de Antecedentes Penales gratuita al Condado de Union. La clínica, que cambiará su vida, se llevará a cabo el martes 17 de diciembre de 4:00 p. m. a 7:00 p. m. y tendrá lugar en la Biblioteca Pública de Roselle, ubicada en 104 West 4th Avenue en Roselle. La clínica estará disponible exclusivamente para los residentes del Condado de Union.

“Entendemos las limitaciones que las condenas menores pueden imponer en la trayectoria de vida de una persona y, por esa razón, se estableció esta clínica; sus errores pasados ​​no siempre tienen que definir su futuro”, dijo la Presidenta de la Junta de Comisionados  del Condado de Union, Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “En nuestra clínica de eliminación de antecedentes penales, se le conectará con recursos legales gratuitos y servicios de apoyo para ayudarlo a aprovechar su segunda oportunidad y reconstruir su vida incluso mejor que antes”.

En la clínica, los participantes tendrán la oportunidad de consultar con abogados para obtener una eliminación gratuita de sus antecedentes penales, conocer los requisitos de elegibilidad y recibir asistencia con respecto a las multas pendientes, junto con otros asuntos relacionados. Blaze Responsibly, una firma consultora, regresará para brindar apoyo legal a las personas que atraviesan el proceso de eliminación de antecedentes penales, que suele ser complejo.

“Estamos orgullosos de asociarnos con Blaze Responsibly una vez más para brindar esta oportunidad transformadora a los residentes del Condado de Union”, dijo el Comisionado del Condado de Union Sergio Granados, enlace con el Consejo Asesor de Servicios Humanos (HSAC) y la Junta de Desarrollo de la Fuerza Laboral. “Una eliminación de antecedentes penales es más que un borrón y cuenta nueva: es una puerta de entrada a una esperanza renovada, oportunidades y autoempoderamiento. Al brindar acceso gratuito a orientación legal experta y conectar a los participantes con recursos esenciales, les estamos dando a nuestros residentes las herramientas para superar las barreras y alcanzar su máximo potencial. A medida que nos acercamos a la temporada navideña, esta clínica simboliza el espíritu de generosidad: una oportunidad para reconstruir vidas, restaurar la dignidad y crear futuros más brillantes para todos”.

Los participantes pueden esperar recibir una eliminación de antecedentes penales sin costo por parte de abogados calificados. Si se determina que un participante no es elegible para la eliminación de antecedentes penales, al menos se irá con una comprensión más clara de su situación legal y estará informado sobre los recursos disponibles para él.

Si bien la asistencia a la clínica de eliminación de antecedentes penales es gratuita, se requiere un proceso de inscripción de dos pasos completando los dos formularios requeridos en www.ucnj.org/job-fairs. Solo se aceptará la admisión si se envían ambos formularios.

Los residentes del Condado de Union pueden registrarse en www.ucnj.org/dhs/job-fairs/  o comunicarse con Carolina Marin al 908-380-6237 para obtener más información. Debido a las limitaciones de espacio y recursos, la inscripción está limitada a los primeros 75 participantes.

La Clínica de Eliminación de Antecedentes Penales está organizada por la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union, en colaboración con el Centro de Empleo Estadounidense del Condado de Union, una sucursal del Departamento de Servicios Humanos del Condado de Union. La iniciativa se lleva a cabo en asociación con Blaze Responsibly, Blaze Law Firm, Vet4U, Union Grown UFCW y la Coalición para la Equidad en Alimentos y Salud, que proporcionará comidas nutritivas para todos los asistentes al evento.

El Centro de Empleo Estadounidense del Condado de Union cuenta con el apoyo de fondos del Departamento de Trabajo de los Estados Unidos (USDOL) a través de la Ley de Innovación y Oportunidades para la Fuerza Laboral (WIOA), por un total de $1,700,000. El 100% de estos servicios se financian a través de fuentes de financiación federales.

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Union County Helps Residents Secure a Fresh Start With Return of Free Expungement Clinic, Dec. 17th

The Union County Board of County Commissioners announces the return of a free Expungement Clinic to Union County. The life-changing clinic will take place on Tuesday, December 17th from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and will be held at the Roselle Public Library, located at 104 West 4th Avenue in Roselle. The clinic will be available exclusively to residents of Union County.

“We understand the limitations that minor convictions can place on an individual’s trajectory in life, and for that reason, this clinic was established; your past mistakes do not always have to define your future,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “At our Expungement clinic, you’ll be connected to free legal resources and support services to help you seize your second chance and rebuild your life even better than before.”

At the clinic, participants will have the opportunity to consult with attorneys for a free expungement, learn about eligibility requirements, and receive assistance regarding pending fines, along with other related issues. Blaze Responsibly, a consulting firm, will return to provide legal support for individuals working through the often complex expungement process.

“We are proud to partner with Blaze Responsibly once again to bring this transformative opportunity to Union County residents,” said Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council (HSAC) and the Workforce Development Board. “An expungement is more than just a clean slate—it’s a gateway to renewed hope, opportunity, and self-empowerment. By providing free access to expert legal guidance and connecting participants with essential resources, we are giving our residents the tools to overcome barriers and achieve their full potential. As we approach the holiday season, this clinic symbolizes the spirit of giving—a chance to rebuild lives, restore dignity, and create brighter futures for all.”

Participants can expect to receive a filed expungement at no cost from qualified attorneys. If a participant is found ineligible for expungement, they will at least walk away with a clearer understanding of their legal situation and be informed about the resources available to them.

While the Expungement clinic is free to attend, a two-step registration process is required by filling out the two required forms at ucnj.org/job-fairs. Admission will only be accepted if both forms are submitted.

Union County residents may register at www.ucnj.org/dhs/job-fairs/ or contact Carolina Marin at 908-380-6237 for more information. Due to space and resource limitations, the registration is limited to the first 75 participants.

The Expungement Clinic is organized by the Union County Board of County Commissioners, in collaboration with the Union County American Job Center, a branch of the Union County Department of Human Services. The initiative is in partnership with Blaze Responsibly, Blaze Law Firm, Vet4U, Union Grown UFCW, and the Coalition for Food and Health Equity, which will provide nutritious meals for all attendees at the event.

The Union County American Job Center is supported with funds from the United States Department of Labor (USDOL) through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), totaling $1,700,000. 100% of these services are financed through federal funding sources.

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El Condado De Union Celebrará La Temporada en Conciertos Festivos Este Fin De Semana

La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union anuncia que los residentes del Condado de Union pueden celebrar la temporada en una variedad de conciertos navideños que se presentarán este próximo fin de semana en Westfield, Cranford, Summit y New Providence. Los conciertos son presentados por organizaciones artísticas que reciben una subvención de Artes Locales del Condado de Union 2024, administrada a través de la Oficina de Asuntos Culturales y Patrimoniales.

“La temporada Navideña es un momento para conectarse y celebrar con familiares, amigos y vecinos. Estos conciertos ofrecen una maravillosa oportunidad para disfrutar del increíble talento de nuestras organizaciones artísticas locales, que es posible gracias a la subvención de Artes Locales del Condado de Union”, dijo la Presidenta de la  Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union, Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Animo a todos a asistir y experimentar la alegría y la inspiración que brindan las presentaciones en vivo”.

El viernes 13 de diciembre, la Westfield Community Band presenta su 35.º Concierto Navideño Gratuito Anual a las 7:30 p. m. La banda interpretará selecciones navideñas tradicionales, populares y contemporáneas, junto con los cantantes de Broadway de la Escuela Intermedia Edison. El concierto se llevará a cabo en el Auditorio de la Escuela Intermedia Edison, 800 Rahway Ave., Westfield. http://westfieldcommunityband.com/

El viernes 13 de diciembre y el sábado 14 de diciembre, los Celebration Singers presentarán su concierto anual de invierno a las 8 p. m. “Hearth, Harmony and the Journey Home” incluirá una amplia selección de canciones interpretadas por los Celebration Singers, una banda multigeneracional conocida por su música coral que refleja diversos géneros y culturas. Las entradas cuestan $20 para adultos, $15 para jóvenes y adultos mayores, y son GRATIS para niños menores de 9 años. El concierto se llevará a cabo en la Iglesia de San Miguel, 40 Alden St., Cranford.

El sábado 14 de diciembre, los Concord Singers presentarán su concierto navideño, “Keep Your Lamps”, a las 4 p. m., interpretando música inspirada en el solsticio de invierno y las tradiciones sagradas. Dirigido por Matthew Zabiegala, el programa incluirá estilos y géneros musicales de todo el mundo, con obras de Abbie Betinis, Josef Rheinberger, Rosephanye Powell, Ēriks Ešenvalds, Uzee Brown Jr. y Camille Saint-Saëns. Las entradas cuestan $20 y están disponibles en la puerta o en https://concordsingers.org/events-tickets/ . El concierto tendrá lugar en el Calvary Episcopal Church, 31 Woodland Ave., Summit.

El sábado 14 de diciembre, el Coro Summit Chorale presenta su concierto de vacaciones de invierno, “Dona Nobis Pacem”, a las 7:30 p. m. Para conmemorar el 80.° aniversario de la Batalla de las Ardenas de diciembre de 1944, el coro interpretará Dona Nobis Pacem, un poderoso himno por la paz compuesto en 1936 por Ralph Vaughan Williams, con la esperanza de evitar una segunda guerra mundial. Los solistas destacados son la soprano Julia Lamon y el barítono Christian Waugh. El coro también interpretará canciones navideñas populares que los estadounidenses habrían escuchado en la radio durante la Segunda Guerra Mundial, como I’ll Be Home for Christmas, Happy Holiday, White Christmas y Let It Snow! Las entradas cuestan $25 por adelantado en https://www.summitchorale.org/concerts-and-events.html  o $30 en la puerta. El concierto se llevará a cabo en Faith Lutheran Church, 524 South St., New Providence.

El domingo 15 de diciembre, la Sinfónica Summit presenta un concierto gratuito de música navideña a las 2:00 p. m., que incluye las canciones Navideñas favoritas de películas populares y selecciones Navideñas clásicas. La Sinfónica interpretará la música de la temporada, como El Cascanueces, Paseo En Trineo, La Suite L’Arlessienne de Bizet, El Cascanueces Klezmer y La canción de Navidad. La Sinfónica Summit está dirigida por MichaelAvagliano. Elconcierto es gratuito y se aceptan donaciones. El concierto se llevará a cabo en la escuela secundaria Summit High School, 125 Kent Place Blvd, Summit.

“Las artes tienen el poder de unirnos, especialmente durante las fiestas. Estos conciertos reflejan el tejido cultural diverso del Condado de Union y destacan el papel vital de las artes en nuestra comunidad”, dijo la Comisionada del Condado de Union, Bette Jane Kowalski, enlace con la Junta Asesora Cultural y Patrimonial. “Estamos orgullosos de apoyar estos programas y a los artistas talentosos que los hacen posibles”.

Los conciertos son posibles gracias a los fondos de la Oficina de Asuntos Culturales y Patrimoniales del Condado de Union, un socio del Consejo Estatal de las Artes de Nueva Jersey. La Oficina de Asuntos Culturales y Patrimoniales del Condado de Union es una división del Departamento de Parques y Recreación. Para obtener más información, envíe un correo electrónico a culturalinfo@ucnj.org  o llame al 908-558-2550 de lunes a viernes (los usuarios del servicio de retransmisión deben marcar 711).

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Union County to Celebrate the Season at Holiday Concerts This Weekend

The Union County Board of County Commissioners announce that Union County residents can celebrate the season at a variety of holiday concerts presented this coming weekend in Westfield, Cranford, Summit and New Providence. The concerts are presented by arts organizations receiving a 2024 Union County Local Arts grant, administered through the Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs.

“The holiday season is a time to connect and celebrate with family, friends, and neighbors. These concerts offer a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the incredible talent of our local arts organizations, made possible through the Union County Local Arts grant,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “I encourage everyone to attend and experience the joy and inspiration that live performances bring.”

On Friday Dec. 13, the Westfield Community Band presents their 35th Annual Free Holiday Concert at 7:30 pm. The band will perform traditional, popular and contemporary holiday selections, along with the Edison Intermediate School Broadway Singers. The concert will be held at Edison Intermediate School Auditorium, 800 Rahway Ave., Westfield. http://westfieldcommunityband.com/

On Friday Dec. 13 and Saturday Dec. 14, the Celebration Singers present their annual winter concert at 8 pm. “Hearth, Harmony and the Journey Home” will include wide-ranging selections performed by the multi-generational Celebration Singers, known for choral music reflecting diverse genres and cultures. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for youth & seniors, and FREE for children under 9. The concert will be held at St. Michael’s Church, 40 Alden St., Cranford.

On Saturday Dec. 14, the Concord Singers present their holiday concert, “Keep Your Lamps,” at 4 pm, performing music inspired by the winter solstice and sacred traditions. Conducted by Matthew Zabiegala, the program will feature musical styles and genres from around the world, with works by Abbie Betinis, Josef Rheinberger, Rosephanye Powell, Ēriks Ešenvalds, Uzee Brown Jr., and Camille Saint-Saëns. Tickets are $20, available at the door or at https://concordsingers.org/events-tickets/. The concert will be held at Calvary Episcopal Church, 31 Woodland Ave., Summit.

On Saturday, Dec. 14, the Summit Chorale presents their Winter Holiday Concert, “Dona Nobis Pacem” at 7:30 pm. Marking the 80th anniversary of the December 1944 Battle of the Bulge, the Chorale will perform Dona Nobis Pacem — a powerful anthem for peace composed in 1936 by Ralph Vaughan Williams, with hope for averting a second World War. Featured soloists are soprano Julia Lamon and baritone Christian Waugh. The Chorale will also perform popular Christmas songs that Americans would have heard on the radio during World War II, including I’ll Be Home for Christmas, Happy Holiday, White Christmas, and Let It Snow! Tickets are $25 in advance at https://www.summitchorale.org/concerts-and-events.html or $30 at the door. The concert will be held at Faith Lutheran Church, 524 South St., New Providence.

On Sunday, Dec. 15, the Summit Symphony presents a Free Holiday Pops Concert at 2 pm., featuring favorite holiday songs from popular movies, plus classic holiday selections, the symphony will perform music of the season, including The Nutcracker Suite, Sleigh Ride, L’Arlessienne Suite by Bizet, The Klezmer Nutcracker, and The Christmas Song. Summit Symphony is led and conducted by Michael Avagliano. The concert is free; donations are welcomed. The concertwill be held atSummit High School, 125 Kent Place Blvd, Summit.

“The arts have the power to bring us together, especially during the holidays. These concerts reflect the diverse cultural fabric of Union County and highlight the vital role of the arts in our community,” said Union County Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Advisory Board. “We are proud to support these programs and the talented artists who make them possible.”

The concerts are made possible by funds from the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. The Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs is a division of the Department of Parks and Recreation. For more information, email culturalinfo@ucnj.org or call 908-558-2550 weekdays (relay users dial 711).

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Law Enforcement Advises Public How to Report Drone Activity

Union County Prosecutor William A. Daniel, Union County Chief of Detectives Dr. Harvey Barnwell, Union County Sheriff Peter Corvelli, Union County Police Chiefs Association President David Hart, and Union County Director of Public Safety Dennis Burke issue a joint public statement regarding recent drone activity in Union County:

County and local law enforcement agencies are aware of recurring reports of drone activity in and around Union County and understand the public’s concern about these sightings.

We are working closely with the FBI, New Jersey State Police, and the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness to monitor and investigate this activity. At this time, there is no known threat to public safety.

The FBI and New Jersey State Police encourage the public to report any information related to recent sightings of possible drones.

To report information, you can:

  • Call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324)
  • Submit it online at tips.fbi.gov. Citizens can also upload videos directly through the FBI’s online portal.

For more information about drones, also known as Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), please visit the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness website: NJOHSP

We thank the public for their vigilance and cooperation as we work to ensure the safety of our community.

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Union County Human Relations Commission seeking nominations for their 2025 Unity Achievement Awards

The nominee must live, work, and/or attend school in Union County. Categories include Individual, Business Establishment, Community Organization, Nonprofit Organization, Student, Educator, Clergy/House of Worship, Faith-Based Organization, Public Servant, Law Enforcement, Healthcare, Veteran, and Media. Visit ucnj.org/uchrc to submit your nominee online.

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Be The Change Your Community Needs: Volunteer As An Environmental Steward In Union County In 2025

With support from the Union County Board of County Commissioners, the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County invites residents with a passion for environmental issues and a willingness to help to consider becoming a volunteer in 2025 by joining the Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program. This dynamic program empowers individuals to learn from leading scientists and environmental experts about critical environmental issues and the impact of climate change on New Jersey. Stewards then give back to their communities by tackling these issues on a local scale.

“Our Environmental Stewards program connects residents with professionals in the field, providing them with the necessary skills to foster an environmentally conscious community,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “If you wish to turn your passion for the environment into meaningful action, I encourage you to register for our Environmental Stewards volunteer program. Together, we truly will make a difference in our community and ensure that the legacy we leave behind is a greener planet for our loved ones to enjoy.”

The Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program of Union County offers participants a unique opportunity to engage with topics such as climate change, habitat protection, environmental justice, water quality, food waste, recycling, and solid waste management.

Classes will be held weekly on Tuesdays, starting January 21st and continuing until May 13th, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Each session will feature a content expert who will cover the topic for that week. From 7:30 PM to 8:00 PM, the classes will break out into regional groups to discuss local issues and meet with their coordinators for further discussions and activities.

“We are proud to continue our collaboration with the Rutgers Cooperative Extension in our shared mission to empower the public with practical skills while also protecting our environment,” said Union County Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Rutgers Cooperative Extension. “Caring for our environment is a team effort. Be sure to explore our sister volunteer programs, Master Gardener and Tree Stewards, or contact the Rutgers Cooperative Extension for more ways to get involved.”

The program fee is $325, with an early bird rate of $300, valid through December 31st. To register or for more information about the Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program, please visit go.rutgers.edu/RES2025. If you are committed to environmental stewardship, willing to learn, and ready to volunteer, this program is for you!

 For additional assistance with the Environmental Steward program, contact Michele Bakacs, County Agent and Associate Professor for the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County, at bakacs@njaes.rutgers.edu or 732-398-5274.

For additional information about all Extension projects and activities in Union County, including Master Gardeners, Master Tree Stewards, and the 4-H youth development program, please visit ucnj.org/rce.

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FBI requesting Public’s Assistance Reporting Suspicions Drone Activity

Since November 18, residents from neighboring counties have reported seeing large drones, sometimes nightly, and for several hours, over Mendham Borough, Mendham Township, Morristown, Morris Township, Chester, Randolph, and nearby towns. Local and state police have referred reports to the FBI. Anyone with relevant information are asked to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit it online at tips.fbi.gov. The FBI noted that witnesses have spotted the cluster of what look to be drones and a possible fixed wing aircraft.

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Union County hosts final ‘Aging Services Kiosk’ events of the season this December

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites seniors and caregivers to visit their local Aging Services Kiosk (ASK) for the final events of the 2024 season this December. The monthly event is an opportunity for residents to engage with experienced professionals and learn about valuable senior programs and resources that are available in Union County. Bilingual staff will be present on all designated dates in December to offer assistance in Spanish.

“As colder weather approaches, it is essential for our senior community to receive proper care and support. They need access to nutritious meals, transportation to medical appointments, and various other services,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Our Aging Services Kiosks are designed to connect seniors and their caregivers with essential resources through live, in-person assistance. I encourage all senior residents and their caregivers to visit their local library this December to learn more about the services we offer, and how we can help.”

The Aging Services Kiosk is operated explicitly by the Division on Aging, a branch of the Union County Department of Human Services. It offers adults aged 60 and older, along with their caregivers, a friendly and convenient avenue to discover valuable programs and services and speak individually with a Division on Aging professional.

Staff at ASK locations can help older adults and caregivers connect with various services, including home-delivered meals, respite care, home care, adult day care, and support services for caregivers. Any Union County senior or caregiver can visit any ASK kiosk, regardless of their hometown.  No appointment or pre-registration is needed. Below are the upcoming ASK events in December:

Wednesday, December 11th
Garwood Public Library
411 Third Avenue, Garwood
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Wednesday, December 18th
Elizabeth Public Library – Main

11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

“Our Division on Aging, along with their knowledgeable and friendly staff, remains dedicated to supporting our seniors and making it as simple as possible to obtain resources, discover programs, as well as receive assistance with reading or even translating forms,” said Union County Commissioner Vice-Chairwoman Lourdes Leon, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging. “We want our senior community to know that your quality of life matters to us, and we are committed to supporting initiatives like these that uplift and empower this community.” 

For more information about the ASK events and any other services for seniors in Union County, contact the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection at 1-888-280-8226 toll-free or visit online at ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

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Union County Kicks Off the Holiday Season with the Return of ‘UC Loves Small Biz’ Campaign

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the return of the “UC Loves Small Biz” campaign as part of the annual Union County Small Business Month initiative. In a commitment to strengthening small businesses, residents and visitors alike are invited to explore and support its diverse range of local businesses. From November 29th through December 24th, the county will promote its “shop, dine, and support local” initiative, emphasizing the contributions small businesses make in Union County.

“Shopping locally this holiday season is one of the best ways to invest in our community,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Every purchase at a local small business helps support our neighbors, creates jobs, and contributes to the unique character of Union County. Last year’s ‘UC Loves Small Biz’ campaign was a tremendous success, and we look forward to building on that momentum to ensure our small businesses continue to thrive for years to come.”

The UC Loves Small Biz website will connect people to local businesses by providing links to downtown districts and chambers of commerce, as well as local websites with the ability to search and browse for a business by category.

These functions will offer a streamlined and efficient way to discover the unique products and services that Union County businesses have to offer. A dedicated section of the site will showcase local events and promotions, serving as a digital bulletin board where businesses can share exciting activities, discounts, and happenings.

From November 29th through December 24th, the Union County social media platforms will be highlighting local businesses, sharing pictures, posting videos, and advertising special events and promotions. Residents, visitors and businesses are invited to post their photos with the hashtag #UCLOVESSMALLBIZ to share their experiences with others. By supporting small businesses, individuals ensure that these enterprises flourish, making the community even more vibrant for Union County residents.

Union County will also be holding the Annual Holiday Toy Drive to spread joy and hope to families in need, from November 25th to December 20th 2024. To find drop-off locations, as well as a donation wish list, please visit on ucnj.org/toy-drive-list/.

To learn more about the “UC Loves Small Biz” campaign, please visit ucnj.org/UCLOVESSMALLBIZ/.

For more information, please contact Jeff Brooks, Office of Business Development, at 908-659-7412 or by email at Jeffrey.brooks@ucnj.org.