Author: Web Site Administrator

The Union County Board of County Commissioners announced a full schedule of free music and fun for the whole family in their Union County parks this summer. The events continue throughout July and August with the Summer Arts concert series beginning on July 12, 2023.

“The Board of County Commissioners are excited to announce another unforgettable summer of free and fun-filled concerts in our wonderful Union County parks,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “I encourage all of our residents to grab their family and friends and come out to enjoy great bands at our concert series. With something for everyone, these events are the perfect opportunity to relax, connect, and experience the sounds of music with your community. See you there!”

All Summer Arts concerts begin at 6:30 p.m. with a free yoga session for all, followed by the concert at 7:30 p.m.

The series will take place in Echo Lake Park in Mountainside each Wednesday throughout July, including:

• July 12th – Pink Floyd USA Experience: A tribute band that captures the essence and magic of the legendary British rock band, Pink Floyd. Their meticulous attention to detail and performances recreate the timeless hits that have made Pink Floyd a lasting musical phenomenon.
• July 19th – Winslow-An Evening of the Eagles: This talented tribute band pays homage to one of the greatest American rock bands of all time, The Eagles. Winslow captures the essence of The Eagles’ harmonies, soulful melodies, and timeless classics, bringing audiences back to the era of California rock.
• July 26th – Dead On Live: This remarkable tribute band recreates the spirit, jams, and vibrant energy of the iconic band, The Grateful Dead. Dead on Live brings the timeless songs and free-spirited vibes of the Grateful Dead to life, creating an immersive concert experience for Deadheads and music enthusiasts alike.

In August, the Summer Arts series moves to Oak Ridge Park in Clark, each Wednesday for three more shows and one in Warinanco in Elizabeth to end the series.

• August 2nd – The Benjamins: The Benjamins were established in 1999 and are a trusted high-end live music act that plays an energetic mixture of pop and rock from the 80’s through today.
• August 9th – Rob Messina’s Dave Matthews Experience: Rob Messina and his talented band pay homage to the legendary Dave Matthews Band.  Experience the magic of their incredible tribute performance, filled with soulful vocals, masterful musicianship, and the timeless songs.
• August 16th – Ray Andersen’s Bowie & Beyond: Celebrate the iconic David Bowie’s music and journey through a blend of his greatest hits and innovative compositions.
• August 23rd – Afro Dominicano – Warinanco Park, Elizabeth: Enjoy the vibrant rhythms of Afro Dominicano, a dynamic ensemble that fuses Afro-Caribbean beats with Latin flair.

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.

The Union County Board of Commissioners would like to inform all residents of the reopening of Union County’s “Family Fun and Flix” outdoor movie series. On July 11, 2023, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, will kick off the series at 7:30 p.m. at Warinanco Park in Roselle.

“We are very excited to bring back our summer movie nights in Union County,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “This a free, fun way to spend time with your family and friends, embrace the summer nights and let our parks be the backdrop to a great movie. I look forward to seeing you there.”

The fun begins with a family-friendly dance party before each movie at 7:30 p.m. and the movies will start promptly at dusk. Everyone is encouraged to bring a blanket or beach chair to save a spot on the lawn. Movies will be shown on a weather-permitting basis.

The 2023 Family Fun & Flix movie schedule is:

• Puss In Boots: The Last Wish: July 11, 2023 – Warinanco Park, Elizabeth
• Hotel Transylvania 4: Transformania: July 18, 2023 – Warinanco Park, Elizabeth
• Sonic The Hedgehog 2: July 25, 2023 – Warinanco Park, Elizabeth
• Minions: The Rise of Gru: August 8, 2023 – Kawameeh Park, Union

For more information, call the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at 908-527-4900 or visit the Union County website; www.ucnj.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invite residents to a Summer Festival for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, which will celebrate the 33^rd Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

“The Summer Festival is a joyous occasion that aims to foster inclusivity, empower individuals with disabilities, and provide a fun atmosphere for families to enjoy,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “This event is an opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate diversity, and appreciate the valuable contributions made by people with disabilities. I hope to see you all there!”

The event will take place on Saturday, July 29, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Oak Ridge Park in Clark.

The festival will feature a wide range of activities and attractions suitable for all ages and abilities. Attendees can look forward to inflatable rides, music, games, crafts, and a captivating magic show. With a focus on accessibility, all areas of the event will be designed to accommodate diverse needs, ensuring that everyone can fully participate and enjoy the festivities.

Admission to the Summer Festival is free of charge; however, we kindly request attendees to register in advance. To register, please visit www.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.

To find out more about special needs programs hosted by Union County, visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn/ or call 908-527-4807.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners are delighted to announce, as part of Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados’ “Building a Stronger Union County” initiative, the installation of new water filling stations in several parks across the County of Union. These modern and innovative fountains, equipped with advanced features, such as a Water Bottle Filling Station, an ADA Compliant Drinking Fountain and a Pet Fountain, aim to provide residents and visitors with convenient and sustainable access to refreshing drinking water.

“These new water filling stations exemplify the County’s dedication to promoting sustainability, fostering a healthier lifestyle, and implementing cost-saving measures for our residents,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “By installing these stations, we not only are working on safeguarding our environment but also acknowledging the challenges faced by families dealing with escalating inflation costs. It presents a practical solution that allows families to save money while enjoying activities and sports in our wonderful parks and playgrounds. With an unwavering commitment to enhancing public spaces, the County of Union plans to expand the installation of additional fountain stations at various locations in the future, ensuring an even greater number of communities can enjoy these exceptional amenities.”

The following park locations will now feature Elkay’s cutting-edge water filling stations:

• Warinanco Park – Roselle
• Rizzuto Park – Union
• Rahway River Park – Rahway
• Cedar Brook Park – Plainfield
• Nomahegan Park – Cranford
• Briant Park – Summit

Produced by Elkay, a renowned leader in water solutions, these water filling stations are designed to meet diverse needs, featuring the following components:

• Water Bottle Filling Station: This feature promotes sustainability and encourages the use of reusable bottles, reducing plastic waste. It allows users to conveniently refill their water bottles on the go, making it easier to stay hydrated while enjoying the parks.
• ADA Compliant Drinking Fountain: Ensuring inclusivity, these fountains comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, providing accessible drinking water for individuals with disabilities.
• Pet Fountain: The addition of a pet fountain caters to the needs of furry friends accompanying their owners to the parks. This feature offers a refreshing drinking solution for pets, promoting their well-being and enhancing the overall park experience for families.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to visit the newly installed water filling stations in the above-mentioned parks and enjoy the convenience and benefits they offer.

For more information, call the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at 908-527-4900 or visit the Union County website: www.ucnj.org. For more information on all recycling programs hosted by Union County, visit ucnj.org/recycle or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is happy to inform residents that Union County’s free scrap metal recycling drop-off program will continue in July. A wide variety of metal goods, from household appliances to air conditioners to tire rims, and railings, are accepted at two countywide collection sites in Cranford and Rahway every month from April to November.

“Union County’s commitment to sustainable living continues with the extension of our free scrap metal recycling drop-off program,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “From household appliances to tire rims, we accept a wide variety of metal goods at two convenient locations in Cranford and Rahway. Remember to stay updated on our recycling programs by downloading the Recycle Coach mobile app. By working together, we can continue to make a positive impact on our environment.”

Scrap metal drop-off will be accepted Thursday, July 6 and Saturday, July 15 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at two drop-off centers:

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

Scrap metal from residents in any Union County municipality may be brought to either of these sites.  The next scrap metal events, after the July events, will take place on Thursday, August 3^rd and Saturday, August 19^th. Residents must remain in their vehicles at all times.  Materials should be placed in trunk, cargo area or truck bed and be easily accessible to staff to remove from vehicle.

Acceptable items for recycling include air conditioners, aluminum scrap, aluminum siding, bicycles, brass, copper, dishwashers, electric fans, fencing (chain/wire), freezers, gutters, irons, lawn furniture, metal cabinets, metal sheds, microwaves, railings, refrigerators, stoves, tire rims, toasters, washers and dryers, window frames (no glass), and wire hangers.

To receive schedule alerts, and to stay up to date with Union County and local recycling programs, download the free Recycle Coach mobile app.

For more information, upcoming dates and directions to all Union County recycling programs and locations, visit the Bureau of Recycling and Planning website at ucnj.org/recycle or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889. Quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities are available at The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites all residents and visitors to join in the celebration of Pride Month 2023 at their Pride in the Park Celebration.

“Union County is proud to host this celebration as a testament to our commitment to equality, acceptance, and respect for all individuals said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Our Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs, the first of its kind in the State of New Jersey, continues to pave the way for advocacy and action, ensuring that the voices of the LGBTQ+ community & their allies are heard and empowered. We invite everyone to join us at this wonderful celebration; we hope to see you there!”

Union County Pride in the Park, will take place on Saturday, June 24, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Tëmike Park in Cedar Brook Park in Plainfield. This free, family-fun event will feature kick-ball tournaments, arts and crafts, games, a DJ & decades dance parties, food trucks, local non-profit organizations and informational tables, followed by an outdoor movie presentation of “Strange World” at dusk, approximately 8:30 p.m.

Registration is required for teams looking to participate in the kickball tournaments at www.ucnj.org/lgbtq.

In case of inclement weather, please visit our County website www.ucnj.org or visit our social media pages for updates.

Union County’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs was established in 2018 under the Department of Economic Development. It is the first county government office of its kind in the State of New Jersey. It offers a platform for leadership and collaboration to support equality, and serves as a catalyst for advocacy, awareness and action on current and emerging issues that impact the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals.

For Pride Month schedule updates and more information about the Office of LGBTQ Affairs, visit ucnj.org/LGBTQ.