Author: corinnefiretto

In celebration of Disability Pride Month, the Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to visit the 2024 Union County Art of All Abilities Exhibit. The exhibit will showcase 20 original pieces created by Union County residents of all abilities and will be on display throughout the month of July. Residents are welcome to visit the exhibit at the Commissioner’s Gallery, located on the 6th floor of the Union County Administration Building at 10 Elizabethtown Plaza in Elizabeth. The gallery is open to the public, free of charge, from Monday to Friday, between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

“Our community of individuals with special needs and unique abilities is truly inspirational and talented,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “We are honored to celebrate their hard work with this exhibit and encourage all residents to show their support and visit the display.”

The artworks were created in classes called “Arts of All Abilities” hosted by the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs. The “Arts of All Abilities” program was launched in 2023 in response to a growing need in the community for inclusive art programs for persons with disabilities, allowing them opportunities to learn new skills, express themselves artistically, and establish connections in their community.

“Throughout Disability Pride Month, the County of Union is proud to highlight the remarkable creativity of our residents,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “The Board of County Commissioners continues to champion the potential of every resident, recognizing the transformative impact of these ‘Art of All Abilities’ classes in empowering individuals with disabilities and special needs to proudly showcase their work, symbolizing their unique perspectives and enriching our community with diverse expressions.”

All exhibits displayed at the Commissioners Gallery are coordinated by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a part of the Department of Parks and Recreation.

The Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs is a branch of the Division of Individual and Family Support Services of the Union County Department of Human Services. For more information about upcoming 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.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly announces a Transportation and Logistics Job Fair for Monday, July 1, 2024 at 10:00 AM, to be hosted at the Rahway Recreation Center at 275 East Milton Avenue in Rahway. This job fair is a collective effort between the Union County Board of County Commissioners and the American Job Center.

“Union County is truly unique when it comes to transportation and logistics,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “From Newark Liberty International Airport and Elizabeth Seaport, to multiple, critical artery highways like Routes 22 and 78, the Garden State Parkway, and I-95, we are an industry hub and our hard-working partner organizations are a testament to the volume of commerce that passes through our borders each and every day. Union County residents can find a wealth of opportunities at each and every one of our job fairs, and this job fair is no exception, so we encourage anyone look for gainful employment to join us on July 1^st.”

Companies in attendance will include the Council for Airport Opportunity (CAO), Coach USA, New Jersey Transit, FedEx, Port Liberty, the Seafarers International Union, and the Council on Port Performance (Port of NY and NJ).

“As we continue to create partnerships and opportunities in Union County, this job fair stands as a testament to our dedication to supporting career growth and economic vitality,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Workforce Development Board. “These events not only connect Union County residents with career opportunities but also highlight our commitment to developing a skilled workforce. I invite all residents who may be interested in a career in Transportation and Logistics to join us on July 1^st to explore the diverse range of job openings in this dynamic sector.”

Interested Union County residents must register for the job fair at https://ucnj.org/job-fairs. For more information, or to learn how your business can participate in Union County job fairs, please contact Carolina Marin at (908) 527-4373 or at ajcbusinessteam@ucnj.org.

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 invites all residents with disabilities and their families to the 2024 Summer Festival for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs. The event will take place on Sunday, July 28th, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Warinanco Sports Center, located at 1 Park Drive in Roselle.

“Union County is proud to offer a range of inclusive events throughout the year, such as our annual Summer Festival, which aim to create a welcoming and accommodating environment for families and individuals of all ages and abilities,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This year, we have organized a range of activities suitable for all ages, and we would love for you to join us for some indoor family fun. We are excited to see everyone there.”

July is Disability Pride Month and marks the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a civil rights law passed in 1990 to prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life.

The festival will feature a wide range of activities and attractions suitable for people of all ages and abilities. Attendees can enjoy various activities including games, face painting, bubble shows, hula dancing, and a Stilt Walker performance. Light refreshments will be available in designated areas throughout the park.

“As we celebrate Disability Pride Month, the 2024 Summer Festival is just one example of the Board of County Commissioners’ commitment to creating an inclusive community,” said Union County Commissioner and Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council Sergio Granados. “This event is a wonderful opportunity for individuals with disabilities and their families to come together, enjoy a day of fun activities, and celebrate the progress we have made in ensuring equal opportunities and activities for all.”

Admission to the Summer Festival is always free, but registration is required. To register online, please visit: ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.

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.

For more information about the “Summer Festival” 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.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners would like to announce the arrival of two free summer programs for families – the Family Fun and Flix series, beginning on July 16^th and running through August 20^th at Warinanco Park in Roselle, and the Summer Arts Concert Series, beginning on July 20^th and held in various Union County parks.

“Music and movies are the perfect ingredients for family fun, especially in the summer,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “I urge all Union County residents to take advantage of these free summer events that create laughter, memories, and endless entertainment for the whole family.”

All Family Fun and Flix showings will begin at dusk, with festivities to begin at 7:30pm, and an ice cream truck on site for attendees who wish to purchase a snack. Participants are encouraged to bring their own blankets and chairs. All movies will be shown on a weather-permitting basis. The schedule for the Family Fun and Flix night is listed below:

Tuesday, July 16^th – Wish

Tuesday, July 23^rd – Migration

Tuesday, July 30^th – Elemental

Tuesday, August 13^th – Trolls Band Together

Tuesday, August 20^th – The Little Mermaid (2023)

The Summer Arts Concert Series includes various musical acts in either Oak Ridge Park in Clark, or Echo Lake Park in Mountainside. The schedule is listed below:

Saturday, July 20^th – The Little Mermen: A Disney-tribute concert at Oak Ridge Park from 12:00pm-4:00pm, and will include other acts and family fun activities.

Wednesday, July 24^th – The Pink Floyd Project: A 10-piece Pink Floyd tribute with a light show, beginning at 7:30pm, with a yoga class before the concert at 6:30pm.

Wednesday, August 7^th – 5 Against 1: A Pearl Jam Tribute band at Echo Lake Park starting at 7:30pm, with a yoga class before the concert at 6:30pm.

Saturday, August 17^th – Taylor Nation: The premier Taylor Swift sing-along tribute band at Oak Ridge Park from 12:00pm-4:00pm, and will include other acts and family fun activities. For more information about Family Fun and Flix or the Summer Arts Concert Series, please visit www.ucnj.org/summer24 or call the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at 908-527-4900.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to invite all residents and community members to join us in commemorating Juneteenth with a special flag-raising ceremony. The event will take place on June 19, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. on the steps of the County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth.

“Juneteenth is a day of profound reflection and celebration,” said Commissioner Rebecca Williams, Master of Ceremonies for the event. “As both a Commissioner and an educator with a deep personal connection to this day, I take pride in celebrating my ancestors’ emancipation and the enduring resilience of the African American community. Juneteenth fuels the pursuit of justice, and through this ceremony, we honor the past, empower the present, and shape a brighter future.”

The Juneteenth Flag was created in 1997 to commemorate June 19, 1865, when the citizens of Galveston, Texas were finally notified about the abolition of slavery. President Lincoln had signed the Proclamation of Emancipation more than two years earlier, on January 1, 1863.

“As we commemorate Juneteenth, our celebration goes beyond acknowledging the historical significance of emancipation. We emphasize the ongoing journey towards justice, equality, and empowerment,” said Commissioner Michèle S. Delisfort. “We envision sparking conversations that drive positive change, promote unity, and contribute to a future where every person is acknowledged, respected, and celebrated as the remarkable individual they are. I am looking forward to attending this flag raising, as well as other Juneteenth celebrations throughout our County.”

In addition to the flag raising, Commissioner Sergio Granados, alongside his fellow Commissioner Colleagues and County officials, will unveil a concept for a monument titled “In Memoriam of The 1741 Project: Honoring the Lives Lost to Slavery as well as the Struggle for Freedom,” which will be officially erected in the fall. This unveiling will feature a mock-up of the monument, symbolizing our commitment to remembering and honoring those who endured unimaginable suffering and fought for their freedom.

“The Juneteenth flag is a symbol of liberation and a reminder of the resilience of the African American community,” said Commissioner James Baker. “On Wednesday, we will raise the flag high in honor of those who fought for freedom and equality and I hope all of our residents and visitors join us.”

For more information about the Juneteenth Flag ceremony, please contact Judith Guest, Community Engagement & Diversity Coordinator Judith.Guest@ucnj.org or 908-527-4388.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi advises residents with overseas travel plans that the U.S. Department of State has announced new processing wait times for passport renewals and new passport applications.

“In light of the travel trend in 2024, it is essential for international travelers to carefully check their passport expiration dates, as a minimum of 6 months’ validity is generally required before departure. As travel time approaches for families and others, we are dedicated to ensuring they have a hassle-free experience. Therefore, we strongly advise renewing your passport well ahead of your travel plans to guarantee a smooth and seamless journey.”

As of this week, the State Department is experiencing a wait time of 6-8 weeks for routine applications and 2-3 weeks for expedited applications. Processing times begin when the Department of State receives the application and does not include mailing times which can take up to 2 weeks. Depending on demand, processing times fluctuate throughout the year.

The Office of the County Clerk passport staff are experienced passport agents who can answer any questions you might have and assist you with applying or renewing a passport. Residents can make an appointment online for the Elizabeth or Westfield office, with several options including daytime, evening and Saturday hours. This service is available in person and by appointment only.

The County Clerk’s main office is located in the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth and the annex office is located in the Colleen Frasier Building, at the Union County Complex, located at 300 North Avenue East in Westfield.

Passport photos are also available at both offices for a minimal fee of $10.00 each. To make an appointment at either location, please visit www.ucnj.org/county-clerk/passport-services/ and click “Make an Appointment Online.”

For the latest updates on passport wait times at the State Department, and for additional details about renewing or obtaining a U.S. passport, visit travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.

The Union County Clerk is authorized to accept passport applications and forward them to the State Department for processing. For more information about the County Clerk’s passport service, visit online at ucnj.org/county-clerk/passport-services or call 908-527-4966.

For more information about all County Clerk programs and services, visit online at ucnj.org/county-clerk or call 908-527-4787.