Category: Public Info

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Parks and Recreation invite residents and friends to kick off the summer season at Rhythm & Blues by the Brook. The fun-filled afternoon event returns to Cedar Brook Park in Plainfield on Saturday, May 30^th, from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

“Rhythm and Blues by the Brook is one of our favorite events of the year,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “From fantastic music to food trucks and family, there’s always something for everyone, and our entire County family is looking forward to this celebration of community and culture. We can’t wait to see everyone there!”

This year, Rhythm & Blues by the Brook will be headlined by hip-hop legend Kool Moe Dee. A member of Treacherous Three, one of the original Old School hip-hop crews, as well as a solo performer, he is also recognized as one of the earliest and most skilled battle emcees, evolving the battle rap subgenre. He is ranked #33 on About.com’s 50 Greatest MCs of Our Time (1987-2007), was the winner of the 1991 Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for “Back on the Block” with Quincy Jones, and is the first rapper to receive the NAACP Image Award. In addition, he was nominated for an additional Grammy, an MTV Video Music Award, and two Soul Train Awards. Kool Moe Dee is also the author of “There’s a God on the Mic” (2003), and has appeared in films such as “Beat Street,” “Panther,” “The New Guy,” Takeshi Kitano’s “Brother” and the Britney Spears movie “Crossroads.”

The festival will also feature Kenny Bobien, the Newark-native “King of Gospel House Music.” From his first hit, “You Are My Friend” (2004) through the present day, Bobien’s voice has been synonymous with house/club anthems by Louie Vega, Dennis Ferrer, DJ Spen, Kerri Chandler and more—and he plays equal parts pastor and performer on stage, spreading the word through his ministry of music.

Further, the legendary radio personality, media voice, and multiplatinum-selling R&B artist Miss Jones will grace the Rhythm and Blues stage. Known for her dynamic presence on PIX11 News and YouTube’s Jonesy in the Morning, listeners recognize her from classics like “Punish Me” with Big Pun, “Sugar Hill” with AZ, “Two Way Street” and more. Her performance will feature Taana Gardner and Fonda Rae.

Nu Men of Soul will also be taking the stage at Rhythm and Blues. Founded in New Jersey in 2004, the four-piece, premier R&B tribute vocal group delivers silky harmonies, smooth choreography and authentic soul sound that’s “just like the record.” Founded by Kareem D. Lewis, they have performed everywhere from New Jersey to the Bahamas, and are looking forward to delivering the golden era of R&B to Union County residents with precision, passion and class.

Finally, our returning Master of Ceremonies for Rhythm and Blues by the Brook will be DJ Bookeem, a local favorite who has made waves throughout the tri-state area. Spinning the best in R&B, funk, house, hip hop, reggae, top 40, and old school, DJ Bookeem has been featured on the Wendy Williams show, on 107.5 WBLS New York, and more—and has graced the Rhythm and Blues stage for years.

The event will feature a full afternoon of activities, including a Health & Wellness Fair, presented by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. – Eta Omicron Zeta Chapter of Union County and Upper Middlesex County, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. A Kids Zone full of activities will be available for children from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Guests are welcome to explore the food trucks and vendor tents throughout the event, which will have a wide variety of goods available for purchase. Additionally, the popular Car and Motorcycle Show Spectacular, presented by G-Wiz Auto Entertainment, will return for another year of engaging car enthusiasts.

For full schedule details and updates on Rhythm & Blues by the Brook 2026, please visit ucnj.org/randb.

For more information about all events and activities in Union County Parks, please visit the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at ucnj.org/parks, call 908-527-4900 or email parksinfo@ucnj.org.

Join the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Union County for the 35th Annual Spring Garden Fair & Plant Sale on Sunday, May 17, from 12–4 PM at Trailside Nature and Science Center in Mountainside.

Enjoy a rain-or-shine afternoon of plants, gardening inspiration, and community fun. Admission and parking are free. Cash or checks only.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Parks and Recreation are excited to announce the 100th Anniversary Celebration of Watchung Stable. The milestone event will take place on Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Watchung Stable, 1160 Summit Lane in Mountainside.

“Watchung Stable has long been a beloved part of this community. This celebration is our way of honoring the rich history of the Stable, the passionate and committed staff behind the scenes, and the joy it continues to bring to families today,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “We welcome everyone to join us for a day filled with fun and adventure.”

The Watchung Stable Anniversary Celebration promises a day of exciting activities for all ages, featuring live music from New Jersey-based band enjoy!, a petting zoo, and guided barn tours where visitors can get hands-on experience brushing and grooming horses. There will also be a selfie station featuring some of the stable’s horses, engaging arts-and-crafts activities, and horse-riding demonstrations.

Watchung Stable has been a fixture in Union County since it opened in 1926. It has been owned and operated by the county since 1933. Originally located in Summit, the stable was relocated in 1985 to its current location to allow the completion of Route 78.

The complex houses nearly 100 horses, both county-owned and privately-owned, along with four riding rings, a show ring, and an outdoor hunter course. The facility is modern and barrier-free, including an isolation barn, paddocks, and ample storage for hay and straw.

The county has made several recent improvements to the facility, including the addition of Indoor Riding Rings to enhance accessibility for residents. In 2025, an Adaptive Riding Ring was added, providing opportunities for residents with cognitive, emotional, and physical challenges to engage in equine-assisted activities.

Visitors are welcome to explore the facility Tuesdays through Sundays during regular business hours. Guided tours and programs are available for groups, including Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, preschoolers, and senior citizens. Please note that pets are not allowed at Watchung Stable.

For more information about the 100th Anniversary Celebration of Watchung Stable or additional recreational programs and services offered by the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation, please call the department at 908-527-4900 or visit ucnj.org/parks.

On April 18, 2026, at approximately 5:15 p.m., Union County Regional Dispatch received a 911 call reporting a stabbing inside Wheeler Park in Linden, New Jersey. Responding officers from the Union County Police Department and the Linden Police Department located a 14-year-old male victim suffering from visible lacerations to the left side of his back. The victim was transported to JFK University Medical Center in Edison for treatment of stab wounds and lacerations.

An investigation conducted by the Union County Police Department, led by Detective Waddell of the Investigations Division, resulted in the arrest of three individuals. The investigation determined that the victim was assaulted by three suspects, one of whom allegedly brandished and used a knife, causing the victim’s injuries. The Union County Prosecutor’s Office approved charges against all individuals involved.

On May 4, 2026, members of the Investigations Division arrested two adult suspects. Jaquan Roberts, of Linden, NJ, was arrested, charged, processed, and remanded to the Essex County Jail pending a detention hearing. Kayla Oliveira, of Linden, NJ, was arrested, charged, processed, and released pending a court date in Union County Superior Court.

A third juvenile suspect turned themselves in on May 6, 2026, and was charged, processed, and released pending a court date in Union County Family Court.

Charges filed in this case include:

Against Jaquan Roberts:

1. 2C:12-1B(1) – Second Degree Aggravated Assault
2. 2C:12-1B(2) – Third Degree Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon (Knife)
3. 2C:12-3A – Third Degree Terroristic Threats
4. 2C:12-3B – Third Degree Terroristic Threats (Threat to Kill)
5. 2C:39-4 – Third Degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose
6. 2C:39-5D – Fourth Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon
7. 2C:24-4A(2) – Third Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child
8. 2C:24-4A(2) – Third Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child

Against Kayla Oliveira:

1. 2C:12-1A(1) – Disorderly Persons Offense, Simple Assault
2. 2C:24-4A(2) – Third Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child

Against the Juvenile Suspect:

1. 2C:12-1B(7) – Third Degree Aggravated Assault
2. 2C:12-1A(1) – Disorderly Persons Offense, Simple Assault

This investigation and the resulting arrests send a clear message that the Union County Police Department will continue to aggressively investigate acts of violence and pursue those who commit crimes that threaten the safety and quality of life of residents and visitors throughout the Union County Park System.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Parks and Recreation warmly invite residents to our spring Touch-A-Truck Event, taking place on Saturday, June 13th at Oak Ridge Park in Clark. The free event will run from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

“Our Touch-A-Truck events are always a fun experience for the whole family. You can spend the day exploring police cruisers and work trucks, relaxing on a hayride through the park, or participating in any of a variety of family-friendly activities,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “I hope to see everyone at Oak Ridge for an unforgettable spring day.”  

Union County’s Touch-A-Truck event is the ultimate hands-on experience. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of trucks and cars, including those from the Union County Departments of Public Safety, Public Works, and Parks and Recreation. Additionally, guests will be able to take a hayride through a section of the park, and inflatable attractions will be available for children.

Visitors are also welcome to take part in a special Disc Golf demonstration presented by the Oak Ridge Disc Golf Club.

Food trucks will be on site, offering a variety of food, drinks, and snacks available for purchase. Admission to the Touch-A-Truck event is always free.

For more information on Touch-A-Truck or other events organized through the Department of Parks and Recreation, please call the Parks and Recreation office at 908-527-4900 or visit our website at ucnj.org/parks.

In celebration of Mother’s Day, the Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly unveiled the nominees for the prestigious Union County SHERO Award. This prestigious award was presented in honor of Women’s History, celebrating the remarkable achievements of women who made significant contributions to our community.

“Today is the perfect day to announce the names of the amazing women whose leadership, compassion, tenacity, and accomplishments have left an indelible mark on their community,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “On behalf of the Commissioner Board and those who proudly nominated you, I want to congratulate each and every one of this year’s recipients; your presence on this list is not by accident. Thank you for your dedicated service to this community and for continuing to enrich the lives of those around you.”

Nominations for the Union County SHERO Award were open to individuals who are at least 18 years old, reside or work within Union County, and have made a meaningful impact in their communities—regardless of their role or area of focus.

After careful consideration, the following exceptional women have been chosen as the recipients of the 2026 Union County SHERO Award:

• Noreen Andrews, Scotch Plains
• Brianna Armstead, Linden
• Michelle Barrett, Linden
• Diana Calle, Elizabeth
• Angela Calzone, Roselle
• Crystal Cappozzoli, Linden
• Samantha Carpio, Roselle
• Dianna Constable, Cranford
• Kathleen Czarnecki, Kenilworth
• Maria DeLuca, New Providence
• Mayor Angie Devanney, Berkeley Heights
• Alissa DiScala, Elizabeth
• Lily Duran, Elizabeth
• Dr. Denise Fernandes, Elizabeth
• Laura Giacobbe, Rahway
• Lara Greene-Vaught, Rahway
• Sherry Heidary, Mountainside
• Denise Horta, Elizabeth
• Bette Jane Kowalski, Cranford
• Maria LePage, Springfield
• Fatima Luis, Elizabeth
• Maria Martinez Lazarte, Plainfield
• Tereza Martins, Elizabeth
• Kimberly Matos, Linden
• Dr. Diane Matos-Reis, Elizabeth
• Megan McDonald, Linden
• Julia Melton, Garwood
• Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty, Cranford
• Michelle Morin, Berkeley Heights
• Ranee Muirhead, Scotch Plains
• Jayne Myers, Summit
• Dee Perez Guzman, Elizabeth
• Marcella Perrotti, Elizabeth
• Nancy Polow, Scotch Plains
• Kristina Quigley-Leonardelli, Mountainside
• Assemblywoman Annette Quijano, Elizabeth
• Cindy Rabinowitz, Cranford
• Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi, Elizabeth
• Jariclia (Heidi) Recinos, Roselle
• Nadege E. Ricketts, Union
• Elsie Rivera, Union
• Juanita Rochelle, Elizabeth
• Rubina Saghir, Cranford
• Detective Carrie Scharpnick, Elizabeth
• Kristen Sonnek-Schmelz, Westfield
• Officer Rosa C. Sorto Reyes, Elizabeth
• Anita Thomas, Union
• Sandra Toll-Luchsinger, Elizabeth
• Christina M. Topolosky, Elizabeth
• Nadine Toussaint, Elizabeth
• Bernie Wagenblast, Cranford
• Tashira Wheeler, Plainfield
• Michaela Whelan Spinola, Mountainside
• Erica Witte, Westfield

These nominees reflect the rich fabric of Union County, each bringing a unique perspective and an unwavering commitment to making a difference in our community. Their efforts serve as an inspiration to us all, embodying the spirit of Women’s History Month and the values we proudly uphold in Union County, New Jersey.

The SHERO Award is a one-time honor, proudly recognizing extraordinary women for their lasting impact. Please view our past SHERO recipients to celebrate their inspiring contributions.

For more information about the 2026 Union County SHERO Award, please reach out to Jennifer Erdos at the Union County Office on Women at 908-527-4216 or email jerdos@ucnj.org or visit https://ucnj.org/shero-award.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services’ Division on Aging are excited to announce that the distribution of Senior Farmers Market vouchers has officially begun. Eligible seniors ages 60 and over are invited to visit designated locations to obtain vouchers that provide access to fresh, healthy produce and support our community farmers. 

“Last year, we handed out 1,700 vouchers that helped many seniors with low or fixed incomes access nutritious food, and we’re looking forward to doing it again,” said Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “Your health and well-being are important to us. I strongly encourage eligible seniors to take advantage of this free resource and to apply.”

To be eligible, seniors must be 60 years of age or older, live in Union County, and provide proof of age and residency. A single person’s monthly income may not exceed $2,461 per month, and a married couple’s combined income may not exceed $3,337 per month.

The Division on Aging will begin distributing vouchers on the following dates and locations:

• May 19 –Sampson Senior Center – 800 Anna Street, Elizabeth
• May 20 – Union Senior Center – 652 Rahway Avenue, Union 
• May 21 – Gregorio Recreation Center – 330 Helen Street, Linden 
• May 27 – Kenilworth Senior Center – 526 Boulevard, Kenilworth (9:30 AM – 12:30 PM) 
• May 28 – Peterstown Community Center – 418 Palmer Street, Elizabeth  

All location hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Residents from the following municipalities can reach out to their local Community or Senior Center to obtain Senior Farmers Market vouchers:

• Hillside – Hillside Senior Center – 908-355-8928 
• Roselle – Roselle Recreation Department – 908-259-3036 
• Roselle Park – Casano Community Center – 908-245-0666 
• Plainfield – Plainfield Senior Citizens Center – 908-753-3506 
• Rahway – Rahway Senior Citizens Center – 732-827-2016 

“While this program offers a great opportunity for seniors to get outside, support local farmers, and engage with their community, I want to also remind residents that it is a supplemental program and does not replace a complete nutrition plan,” said Commissioner James E. Baker, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging. “If any seniors are experiencing food insecurities, we encourage you to reach out to our Division on Aging at 908-527-4870 to learn how we can help.”

A limited number of vouchers are available, and applications will be considered on a “first-come, first-served” basis. Vouchers must be used by November 30, 2026.

For more information on the 2026 Farmers Market Nutrition program and other services for seniors in Union County, please contact the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection at 1-888-280-8226 toll-free or visit online at ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month this May, the Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Office on Behavioral Health & Substance Misuse (OBHSM) are hosting a free virtual educational webinar aimed at supporting the mental well-being of children and adolescents.

The webinar, titled “Supporting Children and Youth Mental Health,” will take place on May 13 from 6:00pm to 7:00pm, and will be presented by Susana Mateo, LCSW, of Union County’s Division of Children and Youth Services.

“As conversations around mental health continue to grow, it’s vital that we give families and caregivers the knowledge and resources needed to support children early and effectively,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “This webinar is an opportunity to raise awareness, reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, and offer guidance to those in our community who are supporting someone who is struggling.”

The session will provide valuable tools and strategies for parents, caregivers, and community members to better understand and support the mental health needs of young people in today’s world. In addition to the webinar, OBHSM invites all residents to participate in “Wear Green Day” on May 14—a simple but meaningful way to show support for mental health awareness.

“Mental health touches every family, every school, and every community,” said Debbie-Ann Anderson, Director of the Union County Department of Human Services. “Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us that showing up for one another can make a lasting difference, whether through education, conversation, or acts of support.”

Registration information can be found on ucnj.org/mental-health, and all community members are encouraged to attend.

The Office of Behavioral Health and Substance Misuse advises anyone needing support, information, or resources to reach out to NJ Mental Health Cares, New Jersey’s behavioral health information and referral service system. Calls are answered by trained staff who provide emotional support, assessment of presenting problems, and information and referral. This is a free, confidential service with multilingual translation available.

If you or a loved one is facing mental health related distress, thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crisis, please reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, for 24/7 support. The Lifeline provides free confidential emotional support to individuals in crisis or emotional distress. To learn more about events and programs offered through the Department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners announces that 81 artists, historians and local non-profit organizations will receive funding through the 2026 Union County HEART (History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) Grant Program.

The HEART grant program was created by the Board of Commissioners in 1998, in recognition of the importance of culture and the arts to the Union County economy and quality of life. The innovative program supports projects related to history, the arts and humanities, and demonstrates a commitment to the artists and non-profit community organizations of Union County. Total funding for this year’s grants is $100,000.

“We are proud to support the individuals and organizations who create meaningful opportunities for our residents to connect through arts, history, and education. The HEART Grant Program helps make these experiences accessible and keeps our communities connected,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “At its core, this program supports the people who make Union County a vibrant place to live.”

Union County HEART Grants Awarded 2026:

Individuals

• Adelle Molina, New Providence, $500.00
• Bridget Briant, Garwood, $600.00
• Candace Waller, Fanwood, $800.00
• Christina Izmirlian, Westfield, $600.00
• Dario Scholis, Elizabeth, $800.00
• Hao Feng, Summit, $800.00
• Kiyanna Lawrence, Westfield, $500.00
• Lowell Schantz, Westfield, $800.00
• Maria Daniel, Scotch Plains, $600.00
• Robin Chang, Westfield, $600.00
• Tylie Shider, Plainfield, $500.00
• Valerie Porter, Roselle, $500.00

Organizations

• Borough of Fanwood, Fanwood, $1,500.00
• Borough of Mountainside, Mountainside, $1,200.00
• Borough of Roselle Park, Roselle Park, $800.00
• Carolyn Dorfman Dance, Union, $1,750.00
• City of Plainfield, Plainfield, $1,500.00
• City of Summit, Summit, $800.00
• Connecticut Farms First Presbyterian Cemetery, Union, $1,500.00
• Cranford Housing Board, Cranford, $800.00
• Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Association of Westfield, Westfield, $800.00
• Dragonfly Multicultural Arts Center, Plainfield, $1,500.00
• Dreamhouse Theater Company, Plainfield, $1,200.00
• Elizabeth Avenue Partnership, Elizabeth, $1,500.00
• Elizabeth Public Library, Elizabeth, $1,000.00
• Elizabeth Renaissance Foundation, Elizabeth, $1,500.00
• Emerson Community School, Plainfield, $1,500.00
• Fanwood-Scotch Plains Rotary Frazee House Inc., Fanwood, $1,500.00
• Forgotten Victory Trail, Summit, $1,500.00
• Garwood Partnership for Arts and Culture, Garwood, $700.00
• Girls on a Mission with Ambition, Roselle Park, $1,500.00
• Green Thumb Garden Club of Cranford, Cranford, $700.00
• Groundwork Elizabeth, Elizabeth, $1,450.00
• Haitian Flag Day Planning Committee of New Jersey, Elizabeth, $1,450.00
• Hanson Park Conservancy, Cranford, $1,000.00
• Historical Society Elizabeth NJ, Elizabeth, $800.00
• Historical Society of Plainfield, Plainfield, $1,750.00
• Institute of Music for Children, Elizabeth, $1,500.00
• JCC of Central NJ, Scotch Plains, $1,450.00
• Jefferson Park Ministries, Elizabeth, $1,500.00
• Jersey Central Theatre Company, Fanwood, $1,450.00
• Jewish Family Service of Central New Jersey, Elizabeth, $1,200.00
• Josephine’s Place, Elizabeth, $1,650.00
• Kenilworth Historical Society Incorporated, Kenilworth, $1,200.00
• Liberty Hall Museum, Union, $1,500.00
• Merchants and Drovers Tavern Museum, Rahway, $1,500.00
• Music For All Seasons, Scotch Plains, $1,500.00
• New Jersey Festival Orchestra, Westfield, $1,500.00
• New Jersey Intergenerational Orchestra, Summit, $1,500.00
• Occupational Center of Union County, Roselle, $1,750.00
• Peruvians for Progress, Rahway, $1,450.00
• Premiere Stages at Kean University, Union, $1,500.00
• Preserve the Shady Rest Committee, Scotch Plains, $1,650.00
• Roselle Board of Education, Roselle, $1,500.00
• Roselle Park Loves Arts, Inc., Roselle Park, $1,500.00
• SAGE Eldercare, Summit, $1,500.00
• Second Street Youth Center, Plainfield, $1,500.00
• Social Justice Matters, Inc., Scotch Plains, $1,500.00
• Stony Hill Players, Summit, $1,500.00
• Summit Community Players – Central Presbyterian Church, Summit, $1,500.00
• The Connection for Women and Families, Summit, $1,200.00
• The H.U.S.H. House Foundation, Plainfield, $1,200.00
• The Musical Club of Westfield, Inc., Westfield, $1,500.00
• Township of Cranford, Cranford, $600.00
• Township of Scotch Plains, Scotch Plains, $1,500.00
• Township of Union School District, Union, $1,500.00
• Union County Historical Society, Cranford, $800.00
• Union Township Historical Society, Union, $800.00
• Visions and Pathways, Plainfield, $1,500.00
• Visual Arts Center of New Jersey, Summit, $1,500.00
• Vivid Stage, Summit, $1,500.00
• Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route NJ, Westfield, $1,500.00
• Westfield Arts Collective, Westfield, $1,500.00
• Westfield Coalition for the Arts, Westfield, $1,200.00
• Westfield Community Center, Westfield, $1,000.00
• Westfield Historical Society, Westfield, $800.00
• Westfield Neighborhood Council, Westfield, $1,500.00
• Westfield Public Arts Commission, Westfield, $1,500.00
• Wharton Institute for the Performing Arts, Berkeley Heights, $1,500.00
• YM-YWHA of Union County, Union, $1,500.00
• YMCA Association of Eastern Union County, Elizabeth, $1,300.00

For information about next year’s HEART Grant Program, artists, educators, civic groups and historical non-profit organizations can contact the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs at (908) 558-2550 or by email at culturalinfo@ucjnj.org. NJ Relay users can dial 711.