Author: corinnefiretto

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, is pleased to celebrate this year’s Black History Month with the theme of, “African Americans in the Arts,” with a free Jazz performance by The Bob DeVos Jazz Quartet featuring Lance Bryant. The event will provide a unique exploration of jazz music through narration and performance on Thursday, February 22, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at the Union County Performing Arts Center, Hamilton Stage, located at 360 Hamilton Street in Rahway.

“The theme for this year’s Black History Month is a significant one. By understanding how music had the power to provide comfort and solace during difficult times, while also capturing moments of hopefulness and joy, we can better grasp the African American journey through history,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “The Commissioner Board and I are proud to honor Black History Month with this free event, and we invite you to join us for a great evening celebrating the Arts.”

This year’s theme “African American and the Arts” will focus on celebrating the dynamic African American culture and its global influence in the arts, music, literature, and film industry. The County of Union is excited to host the Hamilton Stage’s first-time visitors: Bob DeVos and the Bob DeVos Jazz Quartet, along with the talented saxophonist and vocalist, Lance Bryant.

Mr. Lance Bryant is a versatile musician who performs in the New York/New Jersey area. He built an impressive career as an arranger, composer, saxophonist, and singer, and has performed in several orchestras, Broadway shows, and even featured in Spike Lee’s film, Malcolm X. His soulful sound is rooted in his upbringing in the Baptist Church, where he established a spiritual connection to his art, and has been capturing that for audiences ever since. Notably, Lance served as the Director of Instrumental Music at the Fountain Baptist Church in our very own Summit, NJ for six years.

With over 50 years of experience as a guitarist, bandleader, and composer, Bob DeVos developed his signature style – groovy, distinguished, with a full-bodied sound that can effortlessly transition between jazzy blues and Latin funk. Bob had the pleasure of recording and touring with some of the biggest names in the organ jazz industry – Trudy Pitts, Richard “Groove” Holmes & Sonny Stitt, and Jimmy McGriff & Hank Crawford. Notably, he has also recorded for musical legends Frank Sinatra and Gladys Knight.

“It is a great privilege to invite our residents and visitors of Union County to come together to celebrate and learn about its diverse cultures,” said Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Cultural & Heritage Advisory Board. “Black History Month is a perfect time to recognize and appreciate the exceptional creativity and musical talent of African Americans. It is also an opportunity for us to understand how their legacy still influences our community today.”

The event will also include the presentation of the 12^th Annual Chester Holmes Humanitarian award, which was established by the Freeholder Board, now Commissioner Board, in 2012, as a highlight of Black History Month honoring the former County Freeholder and Rahway resident Chester Holmes, who passed away later that year in 2012. An accomplished civic leader who loved the Union County community, Mr. Holmes was a former police officer, community volunteer and member of the Army National Guard.  He was the owner of his own company, Holmes Security, and a former Rahway Councilman. This program is funded in part by a grant from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a Division of Cultural Affairs in the Department of State; and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.

Admission to this event is free of charge, but tickets are required. To reserve your ticket, please visit: www.ucnj.org/bhm.

To receive more information on the entire Black History Month event lineup, residents can visit www.ucnj.org/bhm or contact Judith Guest, Union County Office of Community Engagement and Diversity, at judith.guest@ucnj.org or 908-527-4388.

To view a video on this program by Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, please click here.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners would like to remind its residents of our ongoing free Child Seat Inspection Program.

“Our Child Seat Inspection Program ensures your little ones ride securely,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “As a parent, I personally visit the inspection location to have my children’s car seats properly installed and checked for safety measures. I hope you come and take advantage, as I did, and allow our experts to help with the installation and provide any safety additional tips you may need going forward.”

The Union County Board of County Commissioners encourages residents to check their child car seats for proper installation by visiting the County’s Child Safety Seat Inspection Program Center, located at the Garwood First Aid Squad at 401 2nd Avenue in Garwood. The program will run every Wednesday and Thursday from 7:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m. and no appointment is necessary.

Earlier this week, Commissioner Vice- Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded visited the inspection location, where she had one of her children’s car seats installed.

Under the New Jersey Child Passenger Safety Law:

• Any child under the age of 8 years old and a height of 57 inches shall be secured as follows in the rear seat of a motor vehicle.          
• A child under the age of 2 years and 30 pounds shall be secured in a rear-facing seat equipped with a 5-point harness.
• A child under the age of 4 years and 40 pounds shall be secured as described in (a) until they reach the upper limits of the rear-facing seat, then in a forward-facing child restraint equipped with a 5-point harness.
• A child under the age of 8 and a height of 57 inches shall be secured as described in (a) or (b) until they reach the upper limits of the rear-facing or forward-facing seat, then in a belt positioning booster seat.
• A child over 8 years of age or 57 inches in height must be properly secured by a seat belt.
• It is recommended that children under the age of 13 ride in backseat.

All car seats and boosters have expiration dates. There should be a manufacturer’s label on the back or bottom of the seat that gives the manufacture date and/or specific expiration date.

First launched in 1999, the Child Safety Seat Inspection Program is a service of the Union County Board of County Commissioners, Union County Police Department, New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety, and the Garwood First Aid Squad.

For more information about the Safety Seat Inspection Program and other services visit online at ucnj.org/childseats or contact Christine Marcantonio, Traffic Safety Program Coordinator, by email at cmarcantonio@ucnj.org or by phone at 908-789-6830.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the American Job Center, invite all healthcare professionals seeking new career opportunities to the Healthcare Job Fair on Wednesday, February 21 at Warinanco Sports Center.

“We are not just offering jobs, we are creating pathways for individuals to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of our communities,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This event not only provides a platform for healthcare professionals to explore career opportunities, but also reflects our commitment to encouraging growth and innovation within the healthcare industry.”

The Healthcare Job Fair is scheduled for Wednesday, February 21, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Warinanco Sports Center, located at 1 Park Drive in Roselle.  The fair will feature a range of roles, including job opportunities for Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Certified Medical Assistants, Certified Medication Aides, Certified Nursing Assistants, and Emergency Medical Technicians. Representatives from CareFinders, Hudson Milestone, Lantern Hill Senior Living Community, RWJ Barnabas Health, Visionworks, and Assisting Hands of New Jersey will be present.

In a commitment to making the recruitment process effective and accessible, the event will provide on-the-spot interviews. Applicants are asked to bring a copy of their resume, as they will have the chance to participate directly with representatives from each organization in person.

“Given the staggering 1.8 million job openings in the healthcare industry each year, it’s crucial to link skilled professionals with job opportunities,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Workforce Development Board. “The Healthcare Job Fair serves as a bridge between employers and our local workforce. By addressing the healthcare sector’s needs, we strengthen our industry, grow job opportunities, and make our community stronger.”

Registration is required on www.ucnj.org/dhs/job-fairs/. For employers who wish to participate in the Healthcare Job Fair, please call Carolina Marin at 908-527-4373 or email ajcbusinessteam@ucnj.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that the Union County Department of Human Services has several job opportunities available. To fulfill these vacancies, a job fair will be held on Friday, February 16^th from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Warinanco Sports Center, located at 1 Park Drive in Roselle. The special hiring event is open to all residents of Union County.

“Our Human Services Department plays a vital role in our community. The work of these lively and dedicated individuals is significantly important to keeping our residents healthy, strong, and informed,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “I encourage all residents seeking work with a purpose and a mission to serve to consider attending this event.”

This job fair will provide residents with the opportunity to apply for various open positions within the Department of Human Services. Some positions will require a college degree. It is recommended that all applicants bring multiple copies of their resume to the event.

“Our Department of Human Services is one of compassion and commitment, offering a diverse range of crucial services to our residents,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Workforce Development Board. “A career in human services is not just about a job; it is a calling to make a meaningful impact, where every role, every position, plays a crucial part in building a stronger, more compassionate Union County. So, whether you are seeking a new career path or looking to channel your skills into a purpose-driven role, this job fair is your gateway to a fulfilling journey of service and transformation. I hope to see you there!”

The Department of Human Services is the largest in Union County. With over 700 employees, the organization is estimated to serve over half of the county’s total population. The Department is organized by divisions and provides a wide array of services to residents of all ages, abilities, and incomes. To learn more about the Department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs.

While this event is free of charge, pre-registration is required. For more information, or to register online, residents can visit ucnj.org/job-fairs.

The Union County American Job Center is a division of the Union County Department of Human Services that provides in-person career services, including job fairs and recruitment, training, and more.

For questions regarding this event or future hiring events hosted by The Union County American Job Center, please contact Carolina Marin, Senior Manager of Business Development, at 908-527-0373 or by email at ajcbusinessteam@ucnj.org

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites families to visit Union County’s Trailside Nature and Science Center in Mountainside on Saturday, February 17^th for their annual “February Festivities” – a winter series of indoor and outdoor family fun programs taking place during President’s Day Weekend.

“We are pleased to provide an enriching variety of programs that are both educational and entertaining for residents of all ages, all taking place in the scenic Watchung Reservation,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “In addition to special events like “February Festivities”, Trailside is open all year long for visitors to enjoy nature exhibits and take part in seasonal programming. I welcome all families to join us for a memorable winter day.”

This year, the February Festivities will include:

10:00 A.M. or 12:15 P.M. – Journey of Sap to Syrup – Visitors will see how real maple syrup is made, from the sap of a sugar maple tree. Find out what equipment is needed to collect sap and take part in a taste test to see if you can identify the real thing. Weather-appropriate dressing is strongly encouraged.

11:15 A.M. – Hocus Pocus Magic Show – Adults and children can enjoy a performance filled with magic, audience participation, comedy, and excitement in this live show featuring Joe Fischer. No strollers are allowed in the auditorium.

1:30 P.M. – Mad Science Winter Chills and Thrills Matinee – A series of winter-themed experiments, including winter egg trolls, special science paper, dry ice experiments, and more.

2:30 P.M. – Winter Walk Scavenger Hunt – Investigate the winter woods for buck rubs, bird nests, and bright, red berries. Visitors will warm up around a campfire with hot chocolate and marshmallows as we review our wintry findings.

The programs are recommended for families with children ages four and older. Pre-registration is required for all sessions. To register, please visit ucnj.org/trailside and follow link to Union County’s secure online registration page. The fee per person, per program is $8.00 for Union County residents and $10.00 for non-county residents.

Aside of special programs and events, Trailside welcomes all visitors free of charge every day from 10:00 A.M to 4:00 P.M., except for Mondays and major holidays.

Please note: Trailside will be closed on Monday, February 19^th, in observance of President’s Day.

For more details about “February Festivities” and other upcoming programs at Trailside, visit ucnj.org/trailside or call 908-789-3670.

For quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities, visit the Green Connection at ucnj.org/green-connection. For more information about activities and programs of the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation visit online at ucnj.org/parks, email parksinfo@ucnj.org, or call 908-527-4900.

In recognition of Black History Month 2024, the Union County Board of County Commissioners invites the public to a series of engaging events in February, highlighting key historical and cultural themes in African-American history. This year’s theme, “African Americans and the Arts,” focuses on Black contributions to music, visual media, and more.

“The theme for this year’s Black History Month is a significant one,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “The arts are critical to understanding the Black experience through history; from struggle and pain, to hope and joy. As always, Union County is dedicated to providing enjoyable learning experiences that are unique, engaging, and family-friendly.”

The month-long series begins on Thursday, February 1 at 1:00 p.m. with a raising of the Pan-African flag, also known as the Black Liberation flag, at the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth. The event will not require registration.

“It’s not that long ago that proudly displaying symbols of Black culture in public was unthinkable,” said Commissioner Rebecca Williams. “By continuing our flag raising tradition, we hope to inspire our residents to be proud of their heritage, a central part of their identity.”

The series continues on Wednesday, February 14^th at 12:30 p.m. with a virtual Lunch and Learn presentation. The featured speaker will be Professor Shawn Smith, a photographer and filmmaker who currently also serves as an adjunct professor at Essex County College. Professor Smith teaches Studio Art, along with History of African-American Cinema, Art Appreciation, Photography, Interactive Multimedia Design, Game Design, and Animation Design. Registration for the Zoom is required at www.ucnj.org/bhm. 

“Professor Shawn Smith offers a wealth of knowledge when it comes to Black history,” said Commissioner Michèle S. Delisfort. “His academic experience has covered virtually every corner of that world and we are excited to learn a lot from him. Shawn is a natural fit for our Lunch and Learn series, which is a fun and relaxed way to learn during the work day.”

The County’s Black History Month 2024 event lineup will conclude on Thursday, February 22 at 7:00 p.m. with a special Jazz Night concert. The event, held at the Union County Performing Arts Center Hamilton Stage, located at 360 Hamilton Street in Rahway, will star the Bob DeVos Quartet featuring Lance Bryant. The event will also include the presentation of the 2024 Chester Holmes Humanitarian Award by the Union County Board of County Commissioners. Registration is required to receive a free ticket at www.ucnj.org/bhm.

“We have been eagerly awaiting for the Hamilton Stage to reopen ever since Hurricane Ida,” said Commissioner James E. Baker, Jr., “and now that that day has come, we’re ready to host more incredible community events in this modern, multi-purpose space. It’s a fitting way to continue the celebration of UCPAC’s 95th anniversary, which highlights the rich artistic tradition in both the City of Rahway and Union County.”

Throughout the month, residents can also expect weekly social media content featuring the “Divine Nine” historically Black fraternities and sororities. To receive more information on the entire Black History Month event lineup, residents can visit www.ucnj.org/bhm or contact Judith Guest, Union County Office of Community Engagement and Diversity, at judith.guest@ucnj.org or 908-527-4388.

In recognition of Arbor Day 2024, the Union County Board of County Commissioners is once again partnering with the Union County Shade Tree Advisory Board to provide free trees for local schools.

“For us, Arbor Day is more than just a celebration; it’s a commitment to the environment and the well-being of our community,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Planting trees is not just an act; it is a legacy we leave for generations to come. Arbor Day embodies our shared commitment to nurture the roots of a sustainable future, one tree at a time.”

Studies have shown that trees improve property values and provide many other civic and environmental benefits, such as absorbing airborne pollutants, keeping neighborhoods cool in the summer, preventing soil erosion, and helping to alleviate flooding. In addition to the tree giveaway, the Commissioner Board also sponsors an annual Arbor Day poetry contest, provides municipalities with tree-for-tree matching grants, and supports the Master Tree Stewards volunteer tree conservation program.

This year’s free Arbor Day tree is a tree native to the northeast, the Flowering Eastern Redbud. They are about five feet tall and weigh about 20 pounds. When fully grown they will be about 15-20 feet tall. The trees are available to schools on a first come, first serve basis while supplies last.

The deadline for free tree requests is March 22^nd. Trees are limited. Schools may contact Andrea Staten, Union County Department of Engineering, Public Works and Facilities Management, andrea.staten@ucnj.org or 908-789-3659 to request a tree.

For schools that receive a tree, free sessions in tree planting and care are available to students, teachers, and parent volunteers through the Rutgers Cooperative Extension 4-H Master Tree Steward Program. The tree care sessions will be held at Oak Ridge Park in Clark on Wednesday, April 10^th and Thursday, April 11^th.

“The free tree giveaway and initiatives, just like the other Arbor Day poetry contest we are creating, showcase our dedication to fostering a greener and more vibrant Union County,” said Commissioner James Baker, who is the Commissioner Board Liaison to the Shade Tree Advisory Board. “We hope that participating in this Arbor Day program inspires our youth to continue helping to cultivate a greener, healthier world.”

Arbor Day has been a National Observance since 1872, encouraging the public to plant and care for trees.  This year Arbor Day falls on Friday, April 26, 2024. To find out more about the value of trees in urban communities, use the free, user-friendly iTree online tool developed by the U.S. Forestry Service, the Arbor Day Foundation and other partners. Visit iTreeTools.org for details.

For more information about the 4-H and Master Tree Steward programs, contact Jim Nichnadowicz, Rutgers 4-H agent, 908-654-9854 or jnichdadowicz@ucnj.org. No experience is needed to join the Tree Steward program. A training course is held each year, featuring guided walks in area parks and nature preserves.

The Rutgers Cooperative Extension is supported in part by the Commissioner Board and is headquartered in the Colleen Frasier Building at the Union County complex in Westfield, at 300 North Avenue East. For information on all Extension programs, including Master Tree Stewards, Master Gardeners, Environmental Stewards, and the 4-H youth development program visit ucnj.org/rce.

For quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities, visit The Green Connection online at ucnj.org/green-connection.

In recognition of Arbor Day, the Union County Board of County Commissioners is once again partnering with the Union County Shade Tree Advisory Board to sponsor the annual Arbor Day Poetry Contest for students in Union County. The deadline for entry is March 8, 2024.

“In the rhythmic verses of poetry, we find a unique way to celebrate Arbor Day and highlight the significance of trees,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “The Arbor Day Poetry Contest invites students to weave words that capture the essence of trees, their benefits, and the harmony they bring to our environment. I encourage all students to join us in this contest.”

Participation in the Arbor Day Poetry Contest is organized through the schools. Each school in Union County has received information on entering their students in the contest. For additional information, principals and staff can contact Andrea Staten, Union County Department of Engineering, Public Works and Facilities Management at andrea.staten@ucnj.org  or 908-789-3659.

The poetry contest offers students of Union County, currently enrolled in grades 4 through 8, an opportunity to obtain a greater understanding of Arbor Day by encouraging them to portray the importance of trees in the natural environment and man-made landscapes, by focusing on the benefits, beauty, and contributions of trees to our communities.

All poems received will be categorized by grade and judged.  One winner will be chosen for first, second, and third place at each grade level.  The winners will be invited to attend an awards ceremony on April 24^th at 6:00 p.m., and will be publicly recognized by the Union County Board of County Commissioners.

“The Arbor Day Poetry Contest is a wonderful opportunity for students to express their appreciation for the vital role trees play in our lives and communities,” said Commissioner James Baker, the Commissioner Board Liaison to the Shade Tree Advisory Board. “The presence of trees significantly enhances the quality of life in our region and this contest is just another way to celebrate Arbor Day and a valuable occasion for everyone to acknowledge and appreciate the crucial role that trees play.”

Arbor Day has been a national observance since 1872, encouraging the public to plant and care for trees. This year it will be celebrated on Friday, April 26, 2024.

For quick links to all environmental programs and services hosted by Union County visit The Green Connection, www.ucnj.org/green-connection.  

The Union County Board of County Commissioners would like to invite seniors and their caregivers to the upcoming ASK community events for February. At these events, attendees can meet face-to-face with skilled professionals who offer expert guidance on senior programs and resources, as well as assistance with form completion. Additionally, bilingual staff will be on hand at several events to provide support in Spanish.

“The ASK program is intended to provide peace of mind to our senior citizens and caregivers,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “We want our elderly residents to be aware that they do not have to navigate this season of life in the dark and to explore all of the possibilities available to them. To receive assistance from one of our trained professionals, we encourage you to attend the next ASK Event near you.”

ASK, short for Aging Services Kiosk, is a program within the Union County Department of Human Services, specifically operated by the Division on Aging and Disability Resources. It offers seniors aged 60 and older, along with their caregivers, a friendly and convenient avenue for Union County residents to discover valuable programs and services. This program brings Division on Aging professionals to local public libraries and community centers.

Staff at the ASK events can help seniors and caregivers connect with a variety of 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 event, regardless of their hometown.  No appointment or pre-registration is needed. Below are the upcoming ASK events in February:

Thursday, February 8th

(Bilingual staff is available)

Clark Public Library

303 Westfield Avenue, Clark

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Friday, February 9th

Garwood Public Library

411 Third Avenue, Garwood

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Wednesday, February 14th

(Bilingual staff is available)

Elizabeth Public Library– Main

11 S. Broad Street, Elizabeth

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Friday, February 23rd

Westfield Memorial Library

550 East Broad Street, Westfield

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Wednesday, February 28th

(Bilingual staff is available)

Union Public Library

1060 Stuyvesant Avenue, Union

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

“The ASK Program is an avenue through which we provide our senior community with valuable information, tips, and assistance that can help build confidence for the future,” said Vice-Chairwoman Lourdes Leon, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging. “We urge our elderly and caregivers to attend one of our local ASK Events to learn more about this convenient and friendly service.”

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.

Do you like to hike?  Are you interested in spending more time outdoors?  Looking for a way to give back through volunteering?  Think about becoming a Trail Steward!

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Union County Department of Parks & Recreation are looking for volunteers to bolster the ranks of its Adopt-A-Trail Program.  Each Trail Steward adopts a section of trail in the Watchung Reservation or in any other Union County park. 

“Walking or hiking on trails in the Union County Park System has been the most popular activity in our parks since they were built over a hundred years ago,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded.  “Changes in lifestyle since the pandemic have resulted in a dramatic increase in trail use and trail users of every kind – including hikers, joggers, dog walkers, and nature enthusiasts – visit our parks by the thousands every day.  Though our park and trail maintenance staffs work hard to keep trails and paths in good condition, it is an overwhelming task.  The Watchung Reservation alone has over sixty miles of trails.  Volunteer Trail Stewards help the County keep the trails safe and clean for use by others.” 

Trail Stewards walk their adopted trail at least four times each year, picking up litter and fallen branches, clearing leaves from storm culverts, and cutting back vegetation.  They report larger problems, such as erosion or downed trees, to be dealt with by County staff or the volunteer Chain Saw Crew. 

Anyone 18 or older who is interested in becoming or continuing as a Trail Steward is invited to an orientation meeting on Saturday, January 27, from 9:00 am to noon, at Trailside Nature & Science Center, 452 New Providence Road, Mountainside.  A simple online registration for the meeting is available at the Trail Stewards tab at:  https://secure.rec1.com/NJ/union-county-nj/catalog.

The Adopt-A-Trail Program is administered by the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation. For additional information, contact the Division of Park Environmental Services at 908-789-3683 or email park.env.services@ucnj.org.

Quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities, such as the Adopt-a-Trail and Adopt-a-Park programs and the popular Peregrine Falcon Cam, are available at The Green Connection, www.ucnj.org/green-connection/.