Author: corinnefiretto

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bilingual Poll Workers Especially Needed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Parks and Recreation joyously invite residents, families, and friends to our annual Touch-A-Truck event, taking place on Sunday, May 18th, at Oak Ridge Park, located at 136 Oak Ridge Road in Clark.  The event will run from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

“Touch-A-Truck is always an exciting adventure for the whole family; with a variety of vehicles to explore, hayrides through the park, food trucks, and child-friendly activities, it promises to be an unforgettable experience for both the young, and the young at heart,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Don’t miss out on this free event. I can’t wait to see you all there!”

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 portion of the park, and inflatable attractions will be available for children to enjoy. 

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

Food trucks will be on-site with a variety of food, drinks, and snacks available for purchase to all guests. Admission is free.

For more information on Touch-A-Truck, or any event in the Union County Parks System, please visit www.ucnj.org/parks. 

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce that the 2025 Teen Arts Touring Exhibit has officially opened its annual tour at the Springfield Public Library, located at 66 Mountain Avenue in Springfield. The exhibit will be on display through June 9, 2025, during the library’s regular hours.

“This exhibit is a powerful reminder of the creativity and potential of our youth,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “We are proud to support platforms that elevate student voices, celebrate their artistic expression, and provide opportunities to share their work with our communities. Congratulations to all of the exhibiting students—you are truly inspiring.”

The exhibit features a curated selection of visual art created by talented middle and high school students who participated in the 2025 Union County Teen Arts Festival. This annual two-day celebration of creativity in the literary, performing, and visual arts is held at UCNJ Union College of Union County, New Jersey’s Cranford campus. Several pieces in the exhibit have also been selected for display at the prestigious New Jersey State Teen Arts Festival, taking place this June at Middlesex County College.

A public reception honoring the student artists will be held at the Springfield Public Library on Thursday, May 22, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Following its stay in Springfield, the exhibit will continue traveling through early 2026, with stops at the Union County Commissioners Gallery in Elizabeth and public libraries in Cranford, Elizabeth, Linden, and Plainfield. Admission is free and open to the public.

“This program not only showcases the artistic achievements of our students, but it also brings their work into local spaces where it can be appreciated by residents across the county,” said Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, liaison to the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs. “The Teen Arts Touring Exhibit is a celebration of imagination, discipline, and talent—and we thank the students, teachers, and families who help bring it to life each year.”

The 2025 Teen Arts Touring Exhibit features work by students from the following schools and municipalities:

Berkeley Heights

Columbia Middle School

Madison Howard-Rawles

Governor Livingston High School

Jane Geddis and Milagros Ramos

Clark

Carl H. Kumpf Middle School

Jiah Jeremiah

Mother Seton Regional High School

Anubha Baijpai, Jada Belin, Nia Harris, Kayla Hughes, and Mia Sivy Kelly

Cranford

Cranford High School

Maria Kuchurhura, Kathryn Campbell, and Elima Kahlivk

Hillside Avenue School

Gabriella Coakley

Lincoln School

Lily Pachana

Lincoln School CAMP

Lee Capers, Zoey Pinheiro, and Dylan Umali

Orange Avenue School

Sophia Golding

Elizabeth

Chessie Dentley Roberta Academy

Crisbell Pauta and Kaylee Valdez

Dr. Orlando Edreira Academy

Daniel Mateo & Zoe Gomez

Elmora School #12

Camila Ticona

Elizabeth High School at Frank J. Cicarell Academy

Anasemo Adn, Melany Teixiera and Rosalie Villalba-Molina

JVJ STEM Academy

Victoria Johnson

John E. Dwyer Technology Academy

Jorge Caballero-Oroman

Joseph Battin School #4

Joshua Bueno

L’Ourverture-Lafayette

Deborah Pintado

Madison-Monroe

Yarielis Hierro

Terrence C. Reilly

Leslie Bibiano

Thomas Edison Career & Technical Academy

Sheryl Lasprilla

Thomas Jefferson Arts Academy

Olivia Bailey

Victor Mravlag

Benjamin Afonso, Edward Afonso, and Demetri Melachrinos

William F. Halloran

Samantha Cermena

William Halsey Academy

Ruth Milfort and Erica Maria Rodriguez

Woodrow Wilson School

Dora Flores

Kenilworth

David Brearley High School

Madison Bennet and Ariela Rosado

Linden

Linden High School

Mia Gotowski and Arden Rosemond

McManus Middle School

Penina Riemenschneider

Soehl Middle School

Carlos Del Busto Alves

Mountainside

Deerfield Schools

Hana Barboiu

New Providence

New Providence Middle School

Astrid Isem Pacay

Springfield

Florence M. Gaudineer

Camila Ticona

Jonathan Dayton High School

Ren Versoza

Scotch Plains

Union County Vo-Tech High School

Emily Remy

Union

Union High School

Liana Brown-Bateman, Jochebed Quaye, and Anaisa Rodriguez

The Union County Teen Arts Festival and Touring Exhibit are coordinated each year by the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, part of the Department of Parks & Recreation, to highlight the exceptional artistic talents of local teens and encourage continued engagement in the arts.

For more information about Cultural & Heritage Affairs programs and services, contact the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs at 633 Pearl Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202; call (908) 558-2550 (NJ Relay users dial 711), or email culturalinfo@ucnj.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services are proud to announce a month-long series of events and initiatives in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. These efforts are designed to support mental wellness and provide residents with access to valuable resources and information about County services. Highlights include a virtual webinar on the ARRIVE Together program, a Community Mental Health Resource Fair, and a countywide call to wear green on Mental Health Action Day to show solidarity, support and raise awareness for mental health.

“Mental health is public health, and supporting the emotional and psychological well-being of our residents is a priority for Union County,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Mental health plays a vital role in every aspect of our lives, from our relationships to our ability to thrive in our communities, yet many people who are struggling often feel alone or unsure of where to turn for help. That’s why we’re committed to not only raising awareness, but also making sure our residents know that support is available and help is within reach.”

Union County invites residents to a special virtual webinar focused on the ARRIVE Together program, a statewide initiative that pairs mental health professionals with law enforcement officers to respond to mental health crises with compassion and care. The discussion will feature panelists from the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, RWJBH Trinitas Regional Medical Center, and local law enforcement. The webinar will take place on Wednesday, May 14th, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and will be hosted on Zoom and livestreamed via Facebook Live. Registration details can be found at ucnj.org/mental-health.

Residents are also encouraged to attend the Community Mental Health Resource Fair on Saturday, May 17^th at 11:30 a.m. at the Roselle Memorial Library (104 West 4th Ave, Roselle, NJ). The fair will provide an opportunity to connect with local organizations, gather wellness tools, and learn about mental health services available for individuals and families.

As part of Mental Health Action Day on Thursday, May 15, residents are encouraged to wear green to raise awareness and show support for mental health. Mental health challenges are more common than many realize. 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year, and 1 in 6 youth aged 6 to 17 are affected by a mental health condition. You are not alone. Help is available, and healing is possible. For local mental health services or 24/7 support, call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 9-8-8 or scan the QR code on the Mental Health Action Day flyer.

“We want everyone in Union County to know they are supported and that resources are available no matter where they are in their mental health journey,” said Debbie-Ann Anderson, Director of Human Services. “Whether someone is seeking help for the first time or managing a long-term condition, they deserve to feel seen and heard. Help is also available if you are looking for resources to support a friend or family member. Together, we can continue to build a strong, compassionate community where mental wellness is prioritized and no one feels alone.”

The Office of Behavioral Health and Substance Misuse advises anyone needing support, information, or resources to reach out to NJ Mental Health Cares, New Jersey’s behavioral health information and referral service system. Calls are answered by trained staff who provide emotional support, assessment of presenting problems, and information and referral. This is a free, confidential service with multilingual translation available. If you or a loved one is facing mental health related distress, thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crisis, please reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, for 24/7 support. The Lifeline provides free confidential emotional support to individuals in crisis or emotional distress. To learn more about events and programs offered through the Department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the launch of a brand-new Sensory Friendly Movie Series, with the first-ever screening set for Friday, May 23^rd, featuring Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile. This series is a new initiative funded through the Union County Open Space, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Trust Fund and expands upon the County’s commitment to inclusive arts and recreation programming.

“Union County is proud to lead the way in expanding inclusive programming that meets the needs of all residents, and we’re thrilled to bring our first sensory-friendly movie experience to the Hamilton Stage,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “This new sensory-friendly movie series represents more than just a night at the theater — it’s about pride, joy, and equal access to experiences that many families have gone without for far too long. We’ve seen the impact of our sensory-friendly live performances, and now we’re taking that vision even further by expanding that accessibility through film.”

The May 23^rd screening will take place at the Hamilton Stage, located at 1601 Irving Street in Rahway. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., and the film begins at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person.

This sensory-friendly showing is tailored for children and adults with autism and other sensory sensitivities. Audience accommodations include lowered volume, dimmed house lights throughout the film, and a relaxed environment where attendees are welcome to move, vocalize, and engage freely.

“I’m proud to announce this new initiative, which marks a major step forward in our mission to build a more inclusive Union County and reinforces our commitment to making arts and recreation truly accessible for all families,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Chair of the Open Space Trust Fund. “We’ve heard from so many parents who’ve never been able to take their children to a movie theater due to sensory challenges — and that’s exactly why we created this. Families deserve to enjoy these experiences without fear of being judged or excluded. It’s about removing barriers, embracing inclusion, and creating lasting memories that every child and parent deserves. And this is just the beginning — we’re planning three more sensory-friendly movie nights in 2025 to continue expanding access and joy across our communities.”

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile tells the encouraging story of a singing crocodile who helps those around him find their voice. It’s an uplifting message that aligns well with the mission of Sensory Friendly Theater.

For more information about Sensory Friendly Theater and to purchase tickets for Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile, visit www.ucpac.org/sensory-friendly or call the Union County Performing Arts Center box office at (732) 499-8226.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the continuation of its 2025 recycling events this May. Residents are encouraged to participate by securely disposing of personal documents, scrap metals, and household hazardous items during the scheduled monthly events. This countywide initiative promotes eco-friendly practices by collaborating with residents to keep Union County clean, safe, and sustainable.

“Union County’s recycling programs provide an easy and convenient way to prevent identity theft, conserve valuable resources, and protect the environment,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “I urge residents to inspect their homes and vehicles for unwanted or potentially hazardous items and to utilize these free recycling services.”

Union County offers free mobile paper shredding events from March to October, allowing residents to securely dispose of personal documents onsite. The events are held from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. or until trucks reach capacity. Residents are invited to the following shredding events in May:

• Friday, May 16th: Hillside Pool Parking Lot, 1209 Central Avenue, Hillside
• Sunday, May 18th: New Providence Community Pool Parking Lot, 1378 Springfield Avenue, New Providence

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

Union County’s Scrap Metal Recycling Program also continues in May, providing residents the opportunity to responsibly recycle various metal items, including refrigerators (with doors removed), metal cabinets, appliances, bicycles, aluminum scrap, and even air conditioners. The next scrap metal event of the season will take place on Saturday, May 17th, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at two convenient locations:

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

Union County’s next Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) event will take place on Sunday, June 1st, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and will be held at Union County VoTech, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains. At these events, residents can properly dispose of a variety of household chemicals for proper recycling. These items include, but are not limited to, oil-based finishes, motor oil, gasoline, propane tanks, pool chemicals, pesticides, fluorescent lightbulbs, asbestos, and more. Latex (water-based) paint (wall paint) will not be accepted. Residents are advised to dry latex paint out at home using commercial paint hardener, sand, kitty litter, or sawdust. Once hardened, it can be thrown in your household trash. All Union County recycling events are contact-free and drive-up only.  Residents must remain in their cars while staff unloads materials from their trunks.

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