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Union County Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded has been selected as Chairwoman of the Union County Board of County Commissioners and announced a series of initiatives for 2024, titled “Growing Together in Union County,” with a few key focuses on enhancing connectivity, inclusivity, supporting seniors, mental health, women’s initiatives, and fostering family connections.

“Union County has always been made up of diverse lives, stories, and aspirations; and the strength of our community comes from the connections between its county government and its residents,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “As Chairwoman, while we start the journey of “Growing Together in Union County,” I will be dedicated to breaking down barriers, opening doors, and building a stronger community that promises a brighter future for all residents. Let us continue to work together for an even better Union County, where the bonds of community grow stronger and the seeds of progress are sown for generations to come.”

A lifelong resident of Union County, Palmieri-Mouded was born and raised in Elizabeth, NJ, and now lives in Westfield with her husband George and their five children: Matthew, Christopher, Nicholas, Ryan and Adeline. The Chairwoman announced her initiatives at the 167^th annual reorganization meeting held in the Union County Courthouse in Elizabeth on Thursday.

Chairwoman Palmieri-Mouded’s vision includes launching a new app and updating the county’s website for residents’ easy access and senior enrichment programs that focus on social activities, swim lessons, and a Seniors Against Scams program. Addressing mental health, the Chairwoman introduced the Train the Trainer Mental Health Program and she emphasized her support for women, relaunching the Union County Commission on the Status of Women. Her family connections involve a reading and tutoring program, expanded youth programs, a mobile sensory unit, and the purchase of aquatic wheelchairs. Lastly, a motivating literacy initiative, inspired by a young resident, Ben Steinberg, who was present at the reorganization meeting, that will introduce inclusive books in 116 Union County public elementary school libraries.

Union County Sheriff Peter Corvelli was sworn in for his second term, alongside Union County Commissioners Lourdes Leon, Joseph Bodek, and newly elected Michèle Delisfort, who were sworn in for their terms. Commissioner Bodek, appointed in December 2022, transitions into his first elected term, while Commissioner Leon assumes the role of Commissioner Vice-Chairwoman. The Commissioners also voted on various County advisory board positions and approved the Board’s 2024 schedule and procedural rules.

Residents can find a transcript of this speech on the Union County website at www.ucnj.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and County Manager Ed Oatman are proud to announce a partnership with Trinitas Regional Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, with support from Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy (RSCP) to enhance access to essential medications for residents facing financial difficulties. This new program, which falls under Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados’ “Equity & Inclusion” initiative, will offer certain medications free-of-charge to those living within 300 percent of the federal poverty level, which represents over 54,000 residents in the county.

“In a world where individuals often find themselves forced to make difficult choices, such as paying for rent, putting food on the table, or acquiring life-saving medications they need, it is their health that frequently takes a backseat,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “The collaborative effort between Union County and these stakeholders are set to make a significant and positive impact on the lives of numerous residents and their families in need. It reflects our shared dedication to improving access to healthcare services and promoting a healthier, happier community.”

Each participant must obtain their prescriptions from Trinitas Regional Medical Center’s Early Intervention Program and the County will use its clinical staff to facilitate distribution of prescriptions to participants of the program through their Immunization Center. Clients of this program will be carefully screened for eligibility.

Residents who wish to make an appointment can visit:

• Location: Dorothy B. Hersh Medical Clinic
• Address: 655 East Jersey Street,  Elizabeth, NJ 07206
• Phone: 908-994-5030

The mission of the Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy (RSCP) is to increase access to medications, immunizations, health education, and pharmacy services for uninsured and underserved patients, to reduce clinical and social health inequities in the community and the County thanks RSCP for their support in their initiative.

For more information about this program, please call 908-965-3756 or email RSCPUC@ucnj.org.

On behalf of the Union County Board of County Commissioners and our Union County family, we are saddened to hear about the passing of former Commissioner (then Freeholder), Vernell Wright.

Today, we remember the extraordinary legacy of a dedicated public servant who served two terms as a Commissioner and held a strong commitment to Union County.

In her first term on the Commissioner Board, she chaired the Policy and Administrative Code Committee and served on various committees, including Homeland Security, Open Space, Recreation, and Historic Preservation. Her extensive community involvement included affiliations with organizations such as the NAACP, First Baptist Church of Vauxhall, and the Vauxhall Historical Society.

Commissioner Wright’s dedication extended beyond politics, impacting the lives of countless students and community members.

Her profound influence will be deeply missed. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family during this difficult time.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly unveils a state-of-the-art LED lighting system, which will illuminate the Union County Courthouse. As part of Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados’ 2023 theme of “Building a Stronger Union County,” this new “Union County Shines” initiative, will dynamically change the lights to mark significant occasions, holidays, organization themes, and showcasing our community accomplishments.

“I am excited to end the year with this stunning new addition our historic County Courthouse, which will not only serve as a source of community pride but also enhance the overall ambiance of the area, creating a sense of togetherness among residents,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “The installation of this state-of-the-art LED lighting system signifies our commitment to modernity and community engagement. The County Courthouse, was the perfect location for the lights, as is serves as the County seat and hosts numerous flag raisings and cultural events throughout the year. It stands as a symbol of celebration and with the new lights, I believe it will continue to shine on the diverse and vibrant spirit of Union County.”

The first set of colors to kick off the system will be red and green in light of the upcoming Christmas holiday. The Courthouse will be able to illuminate for different occasions, for example a vibrant, rainbow of colors during Pride Month, a calming blue for World Autism Awareness Month,  cultural celebrations or the victorious colors of a local winning sports team. There is a number of things that the courthouse will be a canvas upon which it paints the stories and celebrations that make Union County unique.

The newly installed LED lighting system is a testament to Union County’s commitment to bringing a sense of unity and celebration among its residents. The system, managed entirely through a user-friendly mobile app, allows for the customization of lighting colors, transitions, and effects. This app-based control ensures flexibility and adaptability, making it easy to synchronize the Courthouse’s appearance with various events and causes.

For more information about Union County or to learn about other initiatives, please visit our website atwww.ucnj.org.

 The Union County Board of County Commissioners announces the official start of the voting process for this year’s UC-STEP project. This year, the project will revolve around mental health, aligning with Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados’s initiative, “Stepping Up to Mental Health,” and building upon his Chairman’s theme of “Building a Stronger Union County.”

“We are excited to reveal the three outstanding proposals centered around mental health for this year’s UC-STEP service project,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “The commitment of our high school students to address pressing community issues is admirable. Their innovative ideas and passion for promoting mental well-being showcase the potential for positive change that can be initiated by the younger generation. We cannot wait to witness the impact these projects will have on both individuals and the Union County community.”

For the past eight years, high school students participating in the UC-STEP enrichment program have presented a range of service proposals, and the entire Union County community is invited to participate in selecting the project that will involve and benefit the community.

This year, the focus is on addressing the crucial issue of mental health, with three proposals submitted by the talented high school students in the program. Each proposal aims to make a positive impact on mental health within the Union County community. Now, the community is encouraged to actively participate in the selection process by voting for their favorite proposal. The voting period begins today and ends on January 22nd. To cast your vote, please visit the UC-STEP website at ucnj.org/uc-step.

Established in 2013, The Union County Student Training and Enrichment Program (UC-STEP) has consistently provided a platform for young people to contribute meaningful service programs that enhance the well-being of Union County residents. This annual tradition not only empowers young leaders, but also ensures that the chosen project reflects the needs and priorities of the Union County community.

For more information about UC-STEP and to cast your vote, please visit ucnj.org/uc-step.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is delighted to showcase a captivating collection of artwork by Michelle Harpster at the Commissioners Gallery. This exclusive exhibit, featuring the diverse and inspiring creations of the esteemed New Jersey native, will run until January 26, 2024.

“Art has the power to illuminate, provoke thought, and connect us to the beauty that surrounds us,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “I encourage all of residents to take the time and visit our Commissioners Gallery and view Michelle’s beautiful artwork as its displayed.”

Michelle Harpster holds a B.A. in art education and an M.A. in studio art with honors, specializing in watercolor, from Kean University. Currently serving as the AP Fine Arts teacher at Governor Livingston High School in Berkeley Heights, Michelle imparts her passion for the arts through advanced placement and fine arts courses. Her work, deeply rooted in visual symbolism, draws inspiration from the rich tapestry of the world around her, reflecting a profound connection to her native New Jersey.

In 2019, Michelle Harpster was named the 3^rd Place Recipient of the National Arts Program Exhibit, proudly representing Union County. Her artistic journey includes solo and group exhibitions at esteemed venues such as the Monmouth Art Museum, Studio Montclair, PES Studios in Newark, Hamilton Street Gallery, and most recently, the Commissioner’s Gallery in the Union County Administration Building. Michelle has been a consistent presence at Boonton’s Dog Days of Summer and Cool Cats public outdoor art exhibit, an annual event benefiting NorthStar Pet Rescue, Boonton Arts, and local schools. Her works have also been published in renowned fine arts-related journals and magazines, including Pikchur Magazine’s International and Halloween Issues, Artistonish: Contemporary Art Magazine, The UN Diversia Catalogue, and Jelly Bucket.

Exhibit Details:

• Dates: Open now until January 26, 2024
• Location: Commissioners Gallery, 6th floor, Union County Administration Building, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza, Elizabeth
• Gallery Hours: Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

To follow more of Michelle Harpster’s work please visit www.michelleharpstergallery.com/ or follow her on Instagram: @michelle_harpster.

“I want to thank Michelle for sharing her many pieces of artwork with the Union County community,” said Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, who is Liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Programs Advisory Board. “The paintings form a colorful, vibrant exhibit that showcases the beauty of different nature scenes and I encourage our residents to come and view the art pieces.”

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 and other programs and services related to the arts and history in Union County, please contact the Office at 633 Pearl Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202; telephone (908) 558-2550; or e-mail: culturalinfo@ucnj.org. NJ relay users dial 711.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in collaboration with the Department of Parks and Recreation, invites all county residents to a fun-filled, free drive-up movie night on Saturday, December 9^th, at the parking lot of Union County Vocational-Technical High School.

“This drive-up movie night is our way of bringing the community together for a safe and joyful celebration,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Holidays are meant to be celebrated by all and this free event is a chance for everyone to participate. So I encourage our residents to invite their friends and neighbors and join us in the spirit of community at this special event. See you all there!”

The event promises a magical experience for families and friends, with the screening of the holiday classic “Elf,” which is celebrating its 20^th year. It will take place in the parking lot of Union County Vocational-Technical High School, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains. The lot will open its gates at 5:30 p.m., allowing moviegoers to secure their prime spots before the festivities kick off. The movie will start promptly at 6:30 p.m.

In addition to the movie, as part of the festivities, attendees will have the chance to step into a winter wonderland with an enjoyable photo opportunity inside a life-sized snow globe, where they can capture the evening against the backdrop of a festive winter scene. Each attendee will receive a ticket for a free cookie and beverage to enjoy during the movie.

While this event is free, residents should pre-register for the drive-up movie which is now open. Pre-registration on https://ucnj.org/reserve is necessary for this event.  A rain date has been scheduled for Sunday, December 10^th.

For more information about the events and activities run by the Department of Parks and Recreation, please visit https://ucnj.org/parks-recreation.