Author: corinnefiretto

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to present a collection of artworks by students from Inroads to Opportunities in an exhibit at the Commissioners Gallery, located on the 6th floor of the Union County Administration Building at 10 Elizabethtown Plaza. Gallery hours are 9:00am to 5:00pm, weekdays. The exhibit will be displayed through February 3, 2025.

“The Inroads to Opportunities art program exemplifies the profound impact that art can have in fostering creativity, confidence, and inclusion,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “It is truly inspiring to see the dedication and talent of these artists, and we are thrilled to share their work with the public through this exhibit.”

This art program is made possible by a HEART Grant (History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) from the Union County Board of County Commissioners. HEART grants serve as a way to strengthen Union County’s non-profit organizations, artists and scholars, so they can provide innovative projects related to the arts, humanities, and history.

Inroads to Opportunities, a not-for-profit organization, provides an environment where individuals with disabilities can develop and become productive and employable. Making works of art provides a therapeutic and creative outlet for the participants. The artists share their inner talents using a wide range of media, such as acrylic, watercolor, crayon, pastel, pen, and pencil. The center started this art program in 2003 and continues to achieve great success.

“Union County is a community built on the strength of its people, and this exhibit exemplifies the incredible talents that make our county unique,” said Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Cultural & Heritage Advisory Board. “Through the HEART Grant program, we are proud to support initiatives that empower individuals and create opportunities for all to express themselves through art.”

The Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, part of the Department of Parks and Recreation, coordinates the exhibits displayed at the Commissioners Gallery.

For more information about this exhibit or other arts and history programs in Union County, please contact the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs at 633 Pearl Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202. You can reach them by phone at 908-558-2550, via NJ Relay at 711, or by email at culturalinfo@ucnj.org.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that the Board of Education of the Scotch Plains-Fanwood School District Special Election will take place on Tuesday, January 28th. All vote-by-mail ballots will be sent out today, January 7th, and residents who requested them can expect to receive a large yellow envelope containing their ballot in the mail later this week.

Vote-by-mail ballots will also be available starting tomorrow at the Union County Clerk’s Westfield Office, located at 300 North Avenue East in the Colleen Fraser Building.

“The special election is an important opportunity for residents to make their voices heard on local funding issues,” said Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi. “I encourage all voters to watch for their vote-by-mail envelopes and take the necessary steps to ensure their voices are heard.”

The ballot will include a spending proposal to raise additional funds for administration, staffing, nursing, security, custodial services, operational costs, various services, supplies, and related equipment. For more information about voting in Union County elections, visit www.unioncountyvotes.com or call 908-527-4996.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the submission of three Green Acres NJDEP Grant applications for 2025. These applications, facilitated through the Union County Open Space, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Trust Fund, aim to enhance and expand recreational opportunities across the County. The projects include an inclusive playground at Unami Park located in the Borough of Garwood and Town of Westfield, improvements to Wheeler Spray Park in the City of Linden, and an upcoming Stewardship Grant initiative at the Deserted Village of Feltville, located in the Watchung Reservation in the Township of Berkeley Heights.

“The Union County Board of County Commissioners is dedicated to ensuring that all of our residents, regardless of their abilities or where they live, have access to high-quality recreational spaces,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “These Green Acres grants highlight our commitment to promoting inclusivity, accessibility, and environmental stewardship throughout our parks system. We are proud to lead the way in creating spaces where families and individuals can gather, play, and enjoy the outdoors together.”

As part of the ongoing renovations at Unami Park, located in the municipalities of Garwood and Westfield, the existing playground will be updated to comply with the standards outlined in Jake’s Law. Passed in 2018, Jake’s Law encourages the development of inclusive playgrounds that exceed ADA standards, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. These renovations represent a significant step forward in creating recreational spaces that are welcoming and accessible to all residents of Union County.

In addition, Wheeler Spray Park in the City of Linden is slated for substantial upgrades under the 2025 Urban Park Green Acres Grant Program guidelines. This initiative focuses on urban parks in communities that face adverse cumulative stressors, promoting restorative and accessible recreational spaces. These improvements are part of Union County’s ongoing commitment to fostering vibrant, equitable, and inclusive community resources.

“Our Open Space Trust Fund continues to play a crucial role in transforming Union County’s parks into welcoming and inclusive spaces for all,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Chair of the Union County Open Space Trust Fund. “By advancing these projects, we are not only improving the quality of life for our residents but also setting a standard for innovation and inclusivity in public recreation. These enhancements reflect our commitment to making Union County a place where everyone feels valued and supported.”

The 2025 Stewardship Green Acres Grant Program, designed to support the restoration and preservation of natural resources and historic landscapes on properties listed in the New Jersey and/or National Historic Registers, will provide funding to restore the landscape at the Deserted Village of Feltville in the Watchung Reservation in Berkeley Heights. This project will aim to improve the site’s natural environment while preserving its cultural heritage, ensuring it will remain a valuable resource for future generations.

To ensure these projects reflect the needs and desires of our residents, Union County is launching a community outreach program. Residents are encouraged to participate by completing surveys available at https://ucnj.org/green-acres-grants.  This website will also provide regular updates on each project as they progress, offering an opportunity for the community to stay informed and engaged.

For more information about these projects and Union County’s Open Space Trust Fund initiatives, please contact Angelica Cedeno at acedeno@ucnj.org or (908) 558-2279.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites seniors and caregivers to visit their local Aging Services Kiosk (ASK) to explore the wide range of senior programs and resources available. These events allow attendees to meet with experienced professionals who can offer expert guidance and assistance with a variety of services, including form completion. Bilingual staff will be available at all dates in January to provide support in Spanish.

“As we prepare for the new year ahead, I am reminded of the importance of this initiative. It reflects our commitment to promoting the health and well-being of our senior community as they navigate the later stages of life, supporting them in any way possible,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “I invite all Union County seniors, caregivers, and family members to visit our Aging Services Kiosk and see what resources and services are available that can make these winter months safer, and more comfortable for you and your loved ones.”

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 January:

Wednesday, January 8th

Union Public Library

1060 Stuyvesant Avenue, Union

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tuesday, January 14th

Westfield Memorial Library

550 East Broad St., Westfield

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Thursday, January 16th

Hillside Public Library

1409 Liberty Avenue, Hillside

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tuesday, January 21st

Cranford Public Library

224 Walnut Avenue, Cranford

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tuesday, January 28th

Elizabeth Public Library – Main

11 South Broad St., Elizabeth

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

“Our collaboration with the Department of Human Services and the Division on Aging on this initiative is grounded in our shared vision of creating an environment where seniors in Union County can thrive and enjoy the later stages of their lives,” said Union County Commissioner Vice-Chairwoman Lourdes Leon, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging. “We look forward to continuing this effort in 2025 and beyond.”

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 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.

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).

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.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services joyously welcome all residents with disabilities and special needs and their loved ones to attend the Annual “Skating with Santa” event on December 14^th at the Warinanco Sports Center, located at 1 Park Drive in Roselle.

“Ice skating is a beloved seasonal activity we enjoy sharing with our friends and family, creating lasting memories both on and off the rink,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Bring a friend and bundle up in your coziest winter clothes as we gather together for this free and exciting event to celebrate the winter months ahead. I can’t wait to see you all there.”

The Skating with Santa event is scheduled for Saturday, December 14^th, at Warinanco Sports Center in Roselle and will take place from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Participants can also enjoy warm pretzels, and hot chocolate. Additionally, children ages 12 and under will receive a holiday present, generously donated by the Moving NJ Forward Foundation, a Union County-based organization.

Attendance at the Skating with Santa event is free, but registration is required. To register, please visit ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.

“Our Skating with Santa event is a fun filled program that brings the entire family together to enjoy time on the ice, and make lasting memories,” said Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “I am grateful to our dedicated partners, Elizabeth Public Schools, Elizabeth Fire and Police Departments, and the Moving NJ Forward Foundation, for their ongoing commitment in bringing the holiday spirit to our community and creating a fun, welcoming experience for our children.”

This event is hosted by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs under the Division of Individual and Family Support Services of the Union County Department of Human Services, and in partnership with the Moving NJ Forward Foundation.

The Moving NJ Forward Foundation is a community-based non-profit founded in 2022 led by President Fernanda Correia. Their mission is to raise awareness and strengthen educational efforts about social justice issues, not only within the local community but also on a national scale. The organization’s commitment to promoting equity and justice is evident through its initiatives and collaborations within the Union County community.

For more information on the Skating with Santa event or other programs or events hosted by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn or call 908-527-4781.

To view the announcement on YouTube, click here.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the launch of its official “Explore Union County” app, now available for free download through the App Store and Google Play. The app, part of Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded’s 2024 “Growing Together in Union County” initiatives, comes stocked with tons of useful content for residents.

“Explore Union County is a great new way to discover more about our community, and an accessible tool to keep up with everything Union County has to offer,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Whether it’s a new park upgrade, cultural event, election information, or just the phone number you need to ask the right person a question, we’ve got you covered!”

Explore Union County launches with critical tools including a news tab, events calendar, parks and recreation directories, recycling and election shortcuts, Commissioner and administration contact directories, push notifications for countywide updates, and links to social media pages.

The app also includes a handy reporting function that residents can use to send feedback about issues and corresponding photos directly to County administration. With the user’s permission, the tool can also use GPS data to inform the County of the exact location where the issue was reported from. Users can also submit feedback on the Explore Union County app itself.

“This app is for the benefit of our community—and that means it’s going to get better the more feedback we get,” added Chairwoman Palmieri-Mouded. “Once you’ve downloaded, feel free to use the App Feedback tool to share your opinions with us, and we’ll consider them for future updates. Thank you!”

For more information, residents are encouraged to visit ucnj.org/explore.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, along with the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation invite all county residents to ring in the holiday season on the ice rink with Santa Claus at “Celebrate the Season,” Union County’s annual celebration at Warinanco Sports Center on Sunday, December 8^th.

“Ice skating at Warinanco Sports Center at Celebrate the Season is the perfect way to kick off this holiday season,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “The festive songs and treats, visits from Santa, and the spirit of togetherness are a sure way to spread the holiday magic throughout our community. I hope to see you all there!”

This year’s Celebrate the Season will be taking place in three sessions within the hours of 11:00am to 6:00pm:

Session 1

11:00am-1:00pm

Session 2

1:30pm-3:30pm

Session 3

4:00pm-6:00pm

Skaters will be able to see Santa along with his elves, sing holiday carols as they skate, and enjoy snacks available for purchase in the cafe. Admission is $8.00 per person and includes entry for 2 hours, a skate rental, one hot chocolate and one cookie per person. Tickets must be purchased in advance at warinancopark.com and will not be available at the door. Everyone entering the building will need a ticket, whether or not they will skate, however, children under 2 are free. Space is limited to 275 people.

The Warinanco Sports Center is located in Warinanco Park, off St. Georges Avenue. For more information about this event, please visit warinancopark.com or call 908-298-7850. To learn more about the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation and the activities they offer, please visit https://ucnj.org/parks-recreation.