County of Union, New Jersey

Rhythm and Blues by the Brook Returns To Union County on May 30th

A flyer advertising Rhythm & Blues by the Brook on Saturday, May 30th, from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

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, May 30^th, from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

“Rhythm and Blues by the Brook is one of our favorite events of the year,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “From fantastic music to food trucks and family, there’s always something for everyone, and our entire County family is looking forward to this celebration of community and culture. We can’t wait to see everyone there!”

This year, Rhythm & Blues by the Brook will be headlined by hip-hop legend Kool Moe Dee. A member of Treacherous Three, one of the original Old School hip-hop crews, as well as a solo performer, he is also recognized as one of the earliest and most skilled battle emcees, evolving the battle rap subgenre. He is ranked #33 on About.com’s 50 Greatest MCs of Our Time (1987-2007), was the winner of the 1991 Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for “Back on the Block” with Quincy Jones, and is the first rapper to receive the NAACP Image Award. In addition, he was nominated for an additional Grammy, an MTV Video Music Award, and two Soul Train Awards. Kool Moe Dee is also the author of “There’s a God on the Mic” (2003), and has appeared in films such as “Beat Street,” “Panther,” “The New Guy,” Takeshi Kitano’s “Brother” and the Britney Spears movie “Crossroads.”

The festival will also feature Kenny Bobien, the Newark-native “King of Gospel House Music.” From his first hit, “You Are My Friend” (2004) through the present day, Bobien’s voice has been synonymous with house/club anthems by Louie Vega, Dennis Ferrer, DJ Spen, Kerri Chandler and more—and he plays equal parts pastor and performer on stage, spreading the word through his ministry of music.

Further, the legendary radio personality, media voice, and multiplatinum-selling R&B artist Miss Jones will grace the Rhythm and Blues stage. Known for her dynamic presence on PIX11 News and YouTube’s Jonesy in the Morning, listeners recognize her from classics like “Punish Me” with Big Pun, “Sugar Hill” with AZ, “Two Way Street” and more. Her performance will feature Taana Gardner and Fonda Rae.

Nu Men of Soul will also be taking the stage at Rhythm and Blues. Founded in New Jersey in 2004, the four-piece, premier R&B tribute vocal group delivers silky harmonies, smooth choreography and authentic soul sound that’s “just like the record.” Founded by Kareem D. Lewis, they have performed everywhere from New Jersey to the Bahamas, and are looking forward to delivering the golden era of R&B to Union County residents with precision, passion and class.

Finally, our returning Master of Ceremonies for Rhythm and Blues by the Brook will be DJ Bookeem, a local favorite who has made waves throughout the tri-state area. Spinning the best in R&B, funk, house, hip hop, reggae, top 40, and old school, DJ Bookeem has been featured on the Wendy Williams show, on 107.5 WBLS New York, and more—and has graced the Rhythm and Blues stage for years.

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 of Union County and Upper Middlesex County, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. A Kids Zone full of activities will be available for children from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Guests are welcome to explore the food trucks and vendor tents throughout the event, which will have a wide variety of goods available for purchase. 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 2026, 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.

Public Info

35th Annual Spring Garden Fair & Plant Sale

Join the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Union County for the 35th Annual Spring Garden Fair & Plant Sale on Sunday, May 17, from 12–4 PM at Trailside Nature and Science Center in Mountainside.

Enjoy a rain-or-shine afternoon of plants, gardening inspiration, and community fun. Admission and parking are free. Cash or checks only.

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El Condado De Union Celebra 100 años De Diversión Ecuestre

A flyer advertising the 100th Anniversary Celebration of Watchung Stable on Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Watchung Stable, 1160 Summit Lane in Mountainside.

La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union y el Departamento de Parques y Recreación se complacen en anunciar la celebración del 100.º aniversario de Watchung Stable. Este evento histórico tendrá lugar el domingo 7 de junio de 2026, de 11:00 a. m. a 3:00 p. m., en Watchung Stable, ubicada en 1160 Summit Lane, en Mountainside.

«Watchung Stable ha sido, desde hace mucho tiempo, una parte muy querida de esta comunidad. Esta celebración es nuestra manera de honrar la rica historia de la caballeriza, al personal apasionado y comprometido que trabaja tras bastidores, y la alegría que sigue brindando a las familias hoy en día», declaró Joseph C. Bodek, Presidente de la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union. «Invitamos a todos a unirse a nosotros para disfrutar de un día lleno de diversión y aventura».

La celebración del aniversario de Watchung Stable promete un día de actividades emocionantes para todas las edades, que incluirá música en vivo a cargo de la banda *enjoy!* (con sede en Nueva Jersey), un zoológico interactivo y visitas guiadas por los establos, donde los visitantes podrán tener una experiencia práctica cepillando y acicalando a los caballos. También habrá una estación para tomar *selfies* con algunos de los caballos de la caballeriza, atractivas actividades de manualidades y demostraciones de equitación.

Watchung Stable ha sido una institución emblemática en el Condado de Union desde su inauguración en 1926. Ha sido propiedad y está bajo la administración del Condado desde 1933. Originalmente ubicada en Summit, la caballeriza fue reubicada en 1985 a su emplazamiento actual para permitir la finalización de la Ruta 78.

El complejo alberga a cerca de 100 caballos —tanto propiedad del Condado como de particulares—, además de cuatro pistas de equitación, una pista de exhibición y un circuito de salto (*hunter*) al aire libre. Las instalaciones son modernas y accesibles para personas con discapacidad, e incluyen un establo de aislamiento, potreros y un amplio espacio de almacenamiento para heno y paja.

El Condado ha realizado varias mejoras recientes en las instalaciones, incluida la incorporación de pistas de equitación cubiertas para mejorar la accesibilidad de los residentes. En 2025, se añadió una pista de equitación adaptada, la cual ofrece oportunidades a los residentes con desafíos cognitivos, emocionales y físicos para participar en actividades asistidas por equinos.

Se invita a los visitantes a recorrer las instalaciones de martes a domingo, dentro del horario de atención habitual. Se ofrecen visitas guiadas y programas especiales para grupos, tales como las Girl Scouts, los Boy Scouts, grupos preescolares y personas mayores. Tenga en cuenta que no se admiten mascotas en Watchung Stable.

Para obtener más información sobre la celebración del 100.º aniversario de Watchung Stable, o sobre otros programas y servicios recreativos ofrecidos por el Departamento de Parques y Recreación del Condado de Union, por favor llame al departamento al 908-527-4900 o visite ucnj.org/parks.

Public Info

Union County Celebrates 100 Years of Equestrian Fun

A flyer announcing the 100th Anniversary Celebration of Watchung Stable on Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Watchung Stable, 1160 Summit Lane in Mountainside.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Parks and Recreation are excited to announce the 100th Anniversary Celebration of Watchung Stable. The milestone event will take place on Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Watchung Stable, 1160 Summit Lane in Mountainside.

“Watchung Stable has long been a beloved part of this community. This celebration is our way of honoring the rich history of the Stable, the passionate and committed staff behind the scenes, and the joy it continues to bring to families today,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “We welcome everyone to join us for a day filled with fun and adventure.”

The Watchung Stable Anniversary Celebration promises a day of exciting activities for all ages, featuring live music from New Jersey-based band enjoy!, a petting zoo, and guided barn tours where visitors can get hands-on experience brushing and grooming horses. There will also be a selfie station featuring some of the stable’s horses, engaging arts-and-crafts activities, and horse-riding demonstrations.

Watchung Stable has been a fixture in Union County since it opened in 1926. It has been owned and operated by the county since 1933. Originally located in Summit, the stable was relocated in 1985 to its current location to allow the completion of Route 78.

The complex houses nearly 100 horses, both county-owned and privately-owned, along with four riding rings, a show ring, and an outdoor hunter course. The facility is modern and barrier-free, including an isolation barn, paddocks, and ample storage for hay and straw.

The county has made several recent improvements to the facility, including the addition of Indoor Riding Rings to enhance accessibility for residents. In 2025, an Adaptive Riding Ring was added, providing opportunities for residents with cognitive, emotional, and physical challenges to engage in equine-assisted activities.

Visitors are welcome to explore the facility Tuesdays through Sundays during regular business hours. Guided tours and programs are available for groups, including Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, preschoolers, and senior citizens. Please note that pets are not allowed at Watchung Stable.

For more information about the 100th Anniversary Celebration of Watchung Stable or additional recreational programs and services offered by the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation, please call the department at 908-527-4900 or visit ucnj.org/parks.

Public Notices

Bond Notice of Sale

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La Policía Del Condado De Union Arresta a Tres Personas Tras Una InvestigaciónSobre UN Apuñalamiento en Wheeler Park, en Linden

El 18 de abril de 2026, aproximadamente a las 5:15 p. m., el Centro Regional de Despacho del Condado de Union recibió una llamada al 911 reportando un apuñalamiento dentro del Wheeler Park en Linden, Nueva Jersey. Los agentes que respondieron a la emergencia, pertenecientes al Departamento de Policía del Condado de Union y al Departamento de Policía de Linden, localizaron a una víctima masculina de 14 años que presentaba laceraciones visibles en el lado izquierdo de la espalda. La víctima fue trasladada al JFK University Medical Center en Edison para recibir tratamiento por las heridas de arma blanca y las laceraciones.

Una investigación llevada a cabo por el Departamento de Policía del Condado de Union, bajo la dirección del detective Waddell de la División de Investigaciones, resultó en el arresto de tres individuos. La investigación determinó que la víctima fue agredida por tres sospechosos; uno de ellos, presuntamente, esgrimió y utilizó un cuchillo, provocando las lesiones a la víctima. La Oficina del Fiscal del Condado de Union aprobó la formulación de cargos contra todos los individuos involucrados.

El 4 de mayo de 2026, miembros de la División de Investigaciones arrestaron a dos sospechosos adultos. Jaquan Roberts, de Linden, NJ, fue arrestado, se le formularon cargos, se completó su procesamiento y fue ingresado en la Cárcel del Condado de Essex a la espera de una audiencia de detención. Kayla Oliveira, de Linden, NJ, fue arrestada, se le formularon cargos, se completó su procesamiento y fue puesta en libertad a la espera de una fecha para comparecer ante el Tribunal Superior del Condado de Union.

Un tercer sospechoso, menor de edad, se entregó voluntariamente el 6 de mayo de 2026; se le formularon cargos, se completó su procesamiento y fue puesto en libertad a la espera de una fecha para comparecer ante el Tribunal de Familia del Condado de Union.

Los cargos presentados en este caso incluyen:

Contra Jaquan Roberts:

1. 2C:12-1B(1) – Agresión agravada de segundo grado

2. 2C:12-1B(2) – Agresión agravada de tercer grado con arma mortal (cuchillo)

3. 2C:12-3A – Amenazas terroristas de tercer grado

4. 2C:12-3B – Amenazas terroristas de tercer grado (amenaza de muerte)

5. 2C:39-4 – Posesión de un arma con fines ilícitos de tercer grado

6. 2C:39-5D – Posesión ilícita de un arma de cuarto grado

7. 2C:24-4A(2) – Puesta en peligro del bienestar de un menor de tercer grado

8. 2C:24-4A(2) – Puesta en peligro del bienestar de un menor de tercer grado

Contra Kayla Oliveira:

1. 2C:12-1A(1) – Delito de alteración del orden público; agresión simple

2. 2C:24-4A(2) – Puesta en peligro del bienestar de un menor (tercer grado)

Contra el Sospechoso Juvenil:

1. 2C:12-1B(7) – Agresión agravada de tercer grado

2. 2C:12-1A(1) – Delito de persona desordenada: agresión simple

Esta investigación y las detenciones resultantes envían un mensaje claro de que el Departamento de Policía del Condado de Union continuará investigando con firmeza los actos de violencia y perseguirá a quienes cometan delitos que amenacen la seguridad y la calidad de vida de los residentes y visitantes en todo el Sistema de Parques del Condado de Union.

Public Info

Union County Police Arrest Three Following Stabbing Investigation at Wheeler Park in Linden

On April 18, 2026, at approximately 5:15 p.m., Union County Regional Dispatch received a 911 call reporting a stabbing inside Wheeler Park in Linden, New Jersey. Responding officers from the Union County Police Department and the Linden Police Department located a 14-year-old male victim suffering from visible lacerations to the left side of his back. The victim was transported to JFK University Medical Center in Edison for treatment of stab wounds and lacerations.

An investigation conducted by the Union County Police Department, led by Detective Waddell of the Investigations Division, resulted in the arrest of three individuals. The investigation determined that the victim was assaulted by three suspects, one of whom allegedly brandished and used a knife, causing the victim’s injuries. The Union County Prosecutor’s Office approved charges against all individuals involved.

On May 4, 2026, members of the Investigations Division arrested two adult suspects. Jaquan Roberts, of Linden, NJ, was arrested, charged, processed, and remanded to the Essex County Jail pending a detention hearing. Kayla Oliveira, of Linden, NJ, was arrested, charged, processed, and released pending a court date in Union County Superior Court.

A third juvenile suspect turned themselves in on May 6, 2026, and was charged, processed, and released pending a court date in Union County Family Court.

Charges filed in this case include:

Against Jaquan Roberts:

2C:12-1B(1) – Second Degree Aggravated Assault
2C:12-1B(2) – Third Degree Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon (Knife)
2C:12-3A – Third Degree Terroristic Threats
2C:12-3B – Third Degree Terroristic Threats (Threat to Kill)
2C:39-4 – Third Degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose
2C:39-5D – Fourth Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon
2C:24-4A(2) – Third Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child
2C:24-4A(2) – Third Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child

Against Kayla Oliveira:

2C:12-1A(1) – Disorderly Persons Offense, Simple Assault
2C:24-4A(2) – Third Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child

Against the Juvenile Suspect:

2C:12-1B(7) – Third Degree Aggravated Assault
2C:12-1A(1) – Disorderly Persons Offense, Simple Assault

This investigation and the resulting arrests send a clear message that the Union County Police Department will continue to aggressively investigate acts of violence and pursue those who commit crimes that threaten the safety and quality of life of residents and visitors throughout the Union County Park System.

Public Info

Union County to Host Free Touch-a-Truck Event on June 13

Flyer for Touch-A-Truck Event on Saturday, June 13th at Oak Ridge Park in Clark from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Parks and Recreation warmly invite residents to our spring Touch-A-Truck Event, taking place on Saturday, June 13th at Oak Ridge Park in Clark. The free event will run from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

“Our Touch-A-Truck events are always a fun experience for the whole family. You can spend the day exploring police cruisers and work trucks, relaxing on a hayride through the park, or participating in any of a variety of family-friendly activities,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “I hope to see everyone at Oak Ridge for an unforgettable spring day.”

Union County’s Touch-A-Truck event is the ultimate hands-on experience. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of trucks and cars, including those from the Union County Departments of Public Safety, Public Works, and Parks and Recreation. Additionally, guests will be able to take a hayride through a section of the park, and inflatable attractions will be available for children.

Visitors are also welcome to take part in a special Disc Golf demonstration presented by the Oak Ridge Disc Golf Club.

Food trucks will be on site, offering a variety of food, drinks, and snacks available for purchase. Admission to the Touch-A-Truck event is always free.

For more information on Touch-A-Truck or other events organized through the Department of Parks and Recreation, please call the Parks and Recreation office at 908-527-4900 or visit our website at ucnj.org/parks.

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Los Comisionados Del Condado De Union Anuncian A Las Homenajeadas Como «SHERO» Del Condado De Union 2026

En celebración del Día de la Madre, la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union presentó con orgullo a las nominadas para el prestigioso Premio SHERO del Condado de Union. Este prestigioso galardón se otorgó en honor a la Historia de la Mujer, celebrando los extraordinarios logros de mujeres que han realizado contribuciones significativas a nuestra comunidad.

«Hoy es el día perfecto para anunciar los nombres de las increíbles mujeres cuyo liderazgo, compasión, tenacidad y logros han dejado una huella imborrable en su comunidad», declaró Joseph C. Bodek, Presidente de la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union. «En nombre de la Junta de Comisionados y de aquellos que con orgullo las nominaron, quiero felicitar a todas y cada una de las galardonadas de este año; su presencia en esta lista no es casualidad. Gracias por su dedicada labor al servicio de esta comunidad y por seguir enriqueciendo las vidas de quienes las rodean».

Las nominaciones para el Premio SHERO del Condado de Union estuvieron abiertas a personas mayores de 18 años que residan o trabajen dentro del Condado de Union y que hayan tenido un impacto significativo en sus comunidades, independientemente de su función o área de especialización.
Tras una cuidadosa deliberación, las siguientes mujeres excepcionales han sido seleccionadas como las galardonadas del Premio SHERO del Condado de Union 2026:

• Noreen Andrews, Scotch Plains
• Brianna Armstead, Linden
• Michelle Barrett, Linden
• Diana Calle, Elizabeth
• Angela Calzone, Roselle
• Crystal Cappozzoli, Linden
• Samantha Carpio, Roselle
• Dianna Constable, Cranford
• Kathleen Czarnecki, Kenilworth
• Maria DeLuca, New Providence
• Mayor Angie Devanney, Berkeley Heights
• Alissa DiScala, Elizabeth
• Lily Duran, Elizabeth
• Dr. Denise Fernandes, Elizabeth
• Laura Giacobbe, Rahway
• Lara Greene-Vaught, Rahway
• Sherry Heidary, Mountainside
• Denise Horta, Elizabeth
• Bette Jane Kowalski, Cranford
• Maria LePage, Springfield
• Fatima Luis, Elizabeth
• Maria Martinez Lazarte, Plainfield
• Tereza Martins, Elizabeth
• Kimberly Matos, Linden
• Dr. Diane Matos-Reis, Elizabeth
• Megan McDonald, Linden
• Julia Melton, Garwood
• Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty, Cranford
• Michelle Morin, Berkeley Heights
• Ranee Muirhead, Scotch Plains
• Jayne Myers, Summit
• Dee Perez Guzman, Elizabeth
• Marcella Perrotti, Elizabeth
• Nancy Polow, Scotch Plains
• Kristina Quigley-Leonardelli, Mountainside
• Assemblywoman Annette Quijano, Elizabeth
• Cindy Rabinowitz, Cranford
• Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi, Elizabeth
• Jariclia (Heidi) Recinos, Roselle
• Nadege E. Ricketts, Union
• Elsie Rivera, Union
• Juanita Rochelle, Elizabeth
• Rubina Saghir, Cranford
• Detective Carrie Scharpnick, Elizabeth
• Kristen Sonnek-Schmelz, Westfield
• Officer Rosa C. Sorto Reyes, Elizabeth
• Anita Thomas, Union
• Sandra Toll-Luchsinger, Elizabeth
• Christina M. Topolosky, Elizabeth
• Nadine Toussaint, Elizabeth
• Bernie Wagenblast, Cranford
• Tashira Wheeler, Plainfield
• Michaela Whelan Spinola, Mountainside
• Erica Witte, Westfield

Estas candidatas reflejan la riqueza del Condado de Union; cada una aporta una perspectiva única y un compromiso inquebrantable para marcar la diferencia en nuestra comunidad. Sus esfuerzos nos sirven de inspiración a todos, encarnando el espíritu del Mes de la Historia de la Mujer y los valores que defendemos con orgullo en Union County, Nueva Jersey.

El Premio SHERO es un reconocimiento honorífico que se otorga por una sola vez, destinado a distinguir con orgullo a mujeres extraordinarias por su impacto perdurable. Le invitamos a conocer a las anteriores galardonadas con el Premio SHERO para celebrar sus inspiradoras contribuciones.

Para obtener más información sobre el Premio SHERO de Union County 2026, por favor comuníquese con Jennifer Erdos, de la Oficina de la Mujer de Union County, llamando al 908-527-4216, enviando un correo electrónico a jerdos@ucnj.org o visitando https://ucnj.org/shero-award.

Public Info

Union County Commissioners Announce 2026 Union County SHERO Honorees

A graphic calling attention to the SHERO Award nominees.

In celebration of Mother’s Day, the Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly unveiled the nominees for the prestigious Union County SHERO Award. This prestigious award was presented in honor of Women’s History, celebrating the remarkable achievements of women who made significant contributions to our community.

“Today is the perfect day to announce the names of the amazing women whose leadership, compassion, tenacity, and accomplishments have left an indelible mark on their community,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “On behalf of the Commissioner Board and those who proudly nominated you, I want to congratulate each and every one of this year’s recipients; your presence on this list is not by accident. Thank you for your dedicated service to this community and for continuing to enrich the lives of those around you.”

Nominations for the Union County SHERO Award were open to individuals who are at least 18 years old, reside or work within Union County, and have made a meaningful impact in their communities—regardless of their role or area of focus.

After careful consideration, the following exceptional women have been chosen as the recipients of the 2026 Union County SHERO Award:

These nominees reflect the rich fabric of Union County, each bringing a unique perspective and an unwavering commitment to making a difference in our community. Their efforts serve as an inspiration to us all, embodying the spirit of Women’s History Month and the values we proudly uphold in Union County, New Jersey.

The SHERO Award is a one-time honor, proudly recognizing extraordinary women for their lasting impact. Please view our past SHERO recipients to celebrate their inspiring contributions.

For more information about the 2026 Union County SHERO Award, please reach out to Jennifer Erdos at the Union County Office on Women at 908-527-4216 or email jerdos@ucnj.org or visit https://ucnj.org/shero-award.