Author: Web Site Administrator

 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 http://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.

In commemoration of the 35th anniversary of World AIDS Day, The Union County Board of County Commissioners, alongside RWJ Barnabas Health are proud to present “World AIDS Day – Remember and Commit,” an event dedicated to advocating for progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS on December 1st at the Warinanco Sports Center.

“We believe that by coming together as a community, we can make a significant impact in the fight against HIV/AIDS,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “World AIDS Day is an opportunity for us to reflect on the progress made, honor those we have lost, and renew our commitment to a future where HIV/AIDS is no longer a threat. Join us on December 1st as we unite in solidarity, remember the journey, and commit to creating a world free from the impact of HIV/AIDS.”

The event will run from 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. on December 1^st. Keynote speaker Yolanda Frazier, a prominent advocate and expert in the field, will share her insights and experiences. Yolanda serves as Project Manager at the Family Treatment Center, which provides specialized care and treatment for individuals and families infected and affected by HIV or AIDS. She is also the co-founder of the Kiss & Tell Innovative Initiative to encourage conversations about HIV testing, STI screening, risk factors, and PrEP education.

Participants are encouraged to pre-register for the event, although registration is not mandatory. As part of our commitment to community health, the event will also include:

• HIV/Hepatitis C Testing: Confidential and accessible testing services will be available onsite.
• Education and Counseling for PReP: Dedicated professionals will be on hand to provide education and counseling regarding Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PReP) and treatment options.
• Flu Shots: The Union County Office of Health Management will offer flu shots.

For more information or to pre-register, visit ucnj.org/lgbtq. To learn more about the services offered by the Union County Office of Health Management, visit https://ucnj.org/public-safety/office-of-health-management.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners would like to announce “Season of Giving: A Holiday Drive” collecting new toys and coats to spread joy and happiness throughout the community this holiday season for those Union County neighbors in need.

This heartwarming initiative aims to collect new toys and coats for boys and girls ranging in age from newborn to 16 years old. The collected toys and coats will be distributed to Union County families who have already been identified, who are facing challenging circumstances during this festive time of year.

“Season of Giving: A Holiday Drive invites everyone in the community to participate and contribute to making the holiday season special for children of all ages,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Every child deserves to experience the joy of the holiday season, and we invite our residents and businesses to join us in making that possible. Your generous donations will bring smiles to the faces of countless children and their families.”

To make participation in the toy and coat drive as convenient as possible, drop-off bins will be located at various locations throughout Union County, ensuring that individuals and organizations have easy access to donate. The drop-off locations include:

• Union County Administration Building, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza, Elizabeth
• Union County Social Services, 342 Westminster Avenue, Elizabeth
• Union County Public Safety Building, 300 North Avenue East, Westfield
• Union County Engineering Building, 2325 South Avenue, Scotch Plains

For suggestions on toys, individuals can visit ucnj.org/toydrive-amazon and select a toy from our Wish List and deliver it to any of the bins or send to the shipping address. If you would like to get items shipped from anywhere else, please send to:

The County of Union
Attn: Samantha Perez
6th Floor 10 Elizabethtown Plaza
Elizabeth, NJ 07207

The drive will run from November 27, 2023 to December 18^th allowing ample time for people to drop off their new, unwrapped toys and coats.

For more information about the Season of Giving: A Holiday Drive or to donate toys that are not on the list, please visit www.ucnj.org or contact Samantha Perez-Gora at 908-527-4182.

On behalf of the Union County Board of County Commissioners, on this Veterans Day, we extend our deepest gratitude to the brave men and women who have served in defense of our nation. Your sacrifice and commitment has safeguarded our freedoms, and we honor your invaluable contributions. Thank you for your service.

A drive-thru event in Union to provide residents with food for the Holidays

The Union County Board of County Commissioners are announcing two emergency food distribution events that will take place on Saturday, November 18, and Sunday, December 17, beginning at 8:00 a.m. at the campus of Kean University, located at 1000 Morris Avenue in Union Township.

“With the holiday season fast approaching, the Commissioner Board and the County of Union are hosting these food distribution events, offering crucial support to residents facing financial challenges,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados, who also serves as Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Board. “Our goal is to alleviate the burden of meal expenses, ensuring that hunger does not affect the holiday experience for any of our Union County residents and their families. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated volunteers and staff, who have tirelessly served our community for over three years, and have continued to do so throughout various community focused programs that include a focus on our commitment to eliminating holiday hunger.”

This event operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and will take place rain or shine. Participants must have proof of NJ residency with them. The first 2,000 residents will receive a special holiday food box with produce and trimmings.

Participants are reminded to clear a space in their trunk or cargo area. Event staff will load the food into their vehicle. Boxes may include perishable items, so please make sure all fresh produce and items with a limited shelf life are refrigerated.

For more information about the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, or to find other food distribution locations, please visit https://cfbnj.org/findfood or text FINDFOOD to 908-224-7776.

For updates on all Union County COVID-19 services, please visit www.ucnj.org. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

The County of Union would like to thank Village Super Market and Gargiulo Produce, who have been continued partners over the last three years. To learn more about Village Super Market, visit: https://www.myvillagesupermarket.com. To learn more about Gargiulo Produce, visit: http://www.gargiuloproduce.com.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in conjunction with the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities & Special Needs, are proud to announce a new Arts for ALL Abilities (AAA) program in response to the growing need for increased inclusivity and artistic expression for persons with disabilities, as part of Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados’ “Equity and Inclusion” initiatives, through his 2023 Chairman’s theme of “Building a Stronger Union County.”

“On behalf of the Union County Board of County Commissioners, I am happy to present this free transformative program, which aims to provide a platform for County residents with disabilities to showcase their artistic talents, while also fostering a more inclusive and supportive community for all abilities,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Art knows no boundaries and I believe that every dollar invested in the arts produces a significant return in measurable and immeasurable ways. This is a great opportunity for our residents to express themselves as we create a canvas of inclusivity, where differences become strengths and art becomes a universal language. I encourage anyone wishing to participate to register today.”

According to the Rutgers University Disability Profile, Union County is home to over 50,000 residents living with disabilities, and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention has reported that persons with disabilities are significantly more likely to experience mental distress. Arts for ALL Abilities is a response to these challenges and aims to bring art into the lives of persons with disabilities, offering them a chance to express themselves, learn new skills, and connect with their communities.

Classes are free but pre-registration is a requirement as space is limited per session. To register for a session, please visit www.ucnj.org/arts-for-all/.  Sessions will be held in November and December with the following schedule:

Wednesday, November 15th: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
PROCEED Family Success Center
1122 East Grand Street, Elizabeth
Family Canvas – Thanksgiving Theme (All ages)

Monday, November 27th: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
2nd Street Youth Center Family Success Center
200 Plainfield Avenue, Plainfield
Children – Abstract Painting (Under 14)

Tuesday, November 28th: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
2nd Street Youth Center, Family Success Center
200 Plainfield Avenue, Plainfield
Family Canvas – Christmas Theme (All ages)

Monday, December 4th: 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
PROCEED Family Success Center, Elizabeth
1122 East Grand Street, Elizabeth
Children – Canvas Winter Wonderland (Under 14)

Monday, December 11th: 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Hillside High School – Family Success Center
1100 Woodruff Avenue, Hillside
Adults – Pour Paint (15 and up)

Monday, December 18th: 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Hillside High School – Family Success Center
1100 Woodruff Avenue, Hillside
Adults – Abstract Painting (15 and up)

For more information on this program and/or about any other special needs programs hosted by Union County, visit www.ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn, or contact the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs at (908) 527-4807 or email opdsn@ucnj.org.