County of Union, New Jersey

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 35^th 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 80^th 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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 25^th to December 20^th 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.

The Union County Surrogate Court celebrated their 16^th Annual Adoption Day Friday, November 22, 2024. National Adoption Day is a national effort to raise awareness of the needs of children and youth waiting to find permanent, loving families. This annual, one-day event has made the dreams of thousands of children throughout New Jersey come true by working with policymakers, practitioners, and advocates to finalize adoptions and create and celebrate “forever families.”

“Adoption Day is one of the most meaningful events I have the privilege of being a part of as Surrogate. It is a day when we celebrate the creation of forever families and give children the opportunity to thrive in a loving, supportive environment,” said Union County Surrogate Christopher Hudak. “Every adoption is a remarkable and unique story, and Adoption Day is a time to share those stories and shine a light on the families who make them possible.” 

This year’s event included a total of 12 participating families. Nine of these families finalized their adoption proceedings on the day of the event, including one family adopting two children. One additional family, whose adoption was finalized earlier this year, also took part in the celebration. Of the adoptions, three are private, while nine were facilitated in partnership through the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency.

The Surrogate Court partnered with CASA of Passaic and Union Counties, the New Jersey Department of Child Protection & Permanency, The Superior Court of NJ, and the Union County Sheriff’s Office to commemorate the day. Special contributions of decorative artwork from Elizabeth Public Schools, and a musical performance by Thomas Jefferson Arts Academy Choir, as well as various donations from David Brearly Middle High School’s “Bears That Care” program in Kenilworth added a heartfelt and vibrant touch to the celebration.

“Every child deserves the love and security of a forever family, and National Adoption Day reminds us of the incredible impact adoption has on the lives of children and parents alike,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “I am deeply moved by the families who open their hearts and homes to children in need. It is an honor to be part of a celebration that highlights the beauty and strength of these new families.”

The Surrogate Court partnered with CASA of Passaic and Union Counties, the New Jersey Division of Child Protection & Permanency, The Superior Court of NJ, and the Union County Sheriff’s Office to commemorate the day. Special contributions of decorative artwork from Elizabeth Public Schools, and a musical performance by Thomas Jefferson Arts Academy Choir, as well as various donations from David Brearly Middle High School’s “Bears That Care” program in Kenilworth will add a heartfelt and vibrant touch to the celebration.

For information on adopting in New Jersey, contact the New Jersey Department of Child Protection and Permanency. An application can be filled out through Foster and Adoptive Family Services on the DCP&P website, by calling 1-800-222-0047 or emailing askdcf@dcf.state.nj.us. Please contact the Union County Surrogate’s Office at 908-527-4280 to inquire about court filing requirements.