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Announces New Dates for January
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites seniors and caregivers to the Aging Services Kiosk (ASK) events in January to explore the wide range of senior programs and resources available. These events allow attendees to meet face-to-face with experienced professionals who can provide expert guidance and assistance with a variety of services, including form completion. Bilingual staff will be available on several dates to provide support in Spanish.
“Our mission with this program has always been, and continues to be, to ensure that our seniors have access to the resources and services they need to stay connected with the community, and for a better quality of life,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Seeing the positive effects this service has had on the lives of those who have visited us has kept this initiative at the forefront since its inception in 2016. If you’re a senior or caring for one, I strongly encourage you to visit us in January. Our friendly staff members are ready to help you start this new year on a positive and hopeful note.”
The Aging Services Kiosk is operated explicitly by the Division on Aging, a branch of the Union County Department of Human Services. It offers adults aged 60 and older, along with their caregivers, a friendly and convenient avenue to discover valuable programs and services and speak individually with a Division on Aging professional.
Staff at ASK locations can help older adults and caregivers connect with various services, including home-delivered meals, respite care, home care, adult day care, and support services for caregivers. Any Union County senior or caregiver can visit any ASK kiosk, regardless of their hometown. No appointment or pre-registration is needed. Below are the upcoming ASK events in January 2026:
Thursday, January 8th
(Bilingual staff available)
Garwood Public Library
411 Third Avenue, Garwood
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Thursday, January 15th
(Bilingual staff available)
Elizabeth Public Library – Main
11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Tuesday, January 20th
Clark Public Library
303 Westfield Avenue, Clark
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Tuesday, January 28th
(Bilingual staff available)
Union Public Library
1980 Morris Avenue, Union
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
“Our sincerest appreciation goes to the staff at our Division on Aging for their dedicated support in helping seniors throughout the county maintain their dignity and independence for as long as possible,” said Union County Commissioner James Baker, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging.
For more information about the ASK events and any other services for seniors in Union County, contact the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection at 1-888-280-8226 toll-free or visit online at ucnj.org/dhs/aging.
The Union County Sheriff’s Office (UCSO) is alerting residents to a recurring phone scam that has surfaced again, with scammers becoming increasingly aggressive in impersonating law enforcement officers.
Callers claim the individual has an arrest warrant — often citing missed jury duty or a failure to appear in court — and demand immediate payment to avoid arrest. Recent incidents show scammers spoofing official phone numbers, using the names of real Union County officers, and sending fake warrant documents containing the victim’s personal information.
These calls are entirely fraudulent and intended to steal money and sensitive information.
WHEN IN DOUBT, HANG UP.
Law enforcement agencies will never:
• Demand payment over the phone.
• Request gift cards, prepaid cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
• Threaten immediate arrest for nonpayment.
• Ask for personal or financial information over the phone.
“Residents should know that we will never ask for money over the phone — not for fines, not for warrants, not for anything,” said Sheriff Peter Corvelli Jr. “If you receive a call like this, end the conversation immediately and verify with your local police department.”
If you receive one of these calls, hang up. A report is only necessary if you have provided money or personal information.
Residents who believe they have been victimized should contact their local police department to file a report.
For additional information or updates, contact the Union County Sheriff’s Office at 908-527-4450 or visit https://ucnj.org/sheriff/.
The Union County Board of Commissioners, along with the Department of Human Services and the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs invites residents and their families to skate with Santa Claus on Saturday, December 20th at Warinanco Sports Center, located at 1 Park Drive in Roselle from 2:00pm-4:00pm.
Families are invited to enjoy an afternoon of holiday fun at the rink, featuring seasonal treats and a visit from Santa. Children under 12 will receive a special holiday gift, generously provided by the Sergio Granados Civic Association, a nonprofit dedicated to building inclusive, resilient communities in New Jersey. The organization works alongside residents, schools, community organizations, and elected leaders to connect families to resources, expand opportunities for growth, celebrate diverse cultures, and strengthen community life so that every resident has the tools to thrive. Admission is free, but advance registration is required at ucnj.org/opdsn-reg. For safety purposes, participants aged 13 and under are strongly recommended to bring a helmet for use during the event.
“We’re excited to offer a joyful day at the rink where families can create memories and share in the spirit of the holidays,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “It’s always great to see our community come together to celebrate. We’re grateful to the Sergio Granados Civic Association for their partnership and for bringing holiday joy to our youngest Skating with Santa guests.” For more information about activities and support services offered through the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, please call the office at 908-527-4807 or 908-527-4781.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that the Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) in Rahway has been awarded $497,500 through Phase II of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority’s Activation, Revitalization, and Transformation (A.R.T.) Program.
UCPAC was among 39 organizations — selected from 109 applicants — approved statewide in municipalities eligible for the program, reaffirming the importance of Rahway’s arts district and UCPAC’s role as a cultural hub for Union County.
“UCPAC is a pillar of creativity and connection in Union County, and this award reinforces the incredible work they do year-round,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “This investment supports a space where families, artists, and residents of all ages can come together to learn, experience, and celebrate the arts.”
The A.R.T. Phase II Program is designed to help arts and cultural organizations activate public spaces, boost foot traffic, and support long-term economic revitalization. Funding is provided through the federal American Rescue Plan.
The grant will directly support UCPAC’s ongoing community programming, including the County’s Sensory Friendly Theater series — a Union County initiative supported and hosted at UCPAC — which provides inclusive, accessible performances for children and adults with sensory sensitivities. The funding will also assist with public events, educational opportunities, and initiatives that bring audiences into Rahway’s vibrant arts district.
“UCPAC has consistently shown how the arts can break barriers and open doors,” said County Manager Ed Oatman. “This grant will empower them to expand programming, reach new audiences, and continue serving as a cultural anchor for the entire county.”
Arts and cultural investments play a vital role in strengthening Union County’s economy, supporting local businesses, and enhancing community life for residents.
“We are deeply grateful for this support and excited for what it will make possible,” said Danni Newbury, Executive Director of UCPAC. “This grant enables us to grow in ways that directly benefit our community — from expanded performances to new educational and engagement opportunities that welcome everyone into our theaters.”
For more information about Union County programs and services, visit ucnj.org, or download the free Explore Union County mobile app.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that a selection of prize-winning art work by Union County and UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ employees, their family members, and volunteers is on display through January 16 in the Commissioners Gallery, located on the 6th floor of the Union County Administration Building, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza in Elizabeth. The gallery is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. weekdays.
The art display presents a select sampling of 16 pieces from among the 74 pieces judged at the recent 19th annual “National Arts Program Exhibit and Contest for Union County Employees and Their Families.” The exhibit and contest are a result of a partnership with the National Arts Program Foundation, which provides prize money and valuable support to display the work of talented artists of all ages.
“We are honored to conclude the year with an exhibit that celebrates our employees—the dedicated public servants who strengthen this community every day,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Congratulations to all of this year’s winners. It is our pleasure to highlight the remarkable talent and artistry within our Union County family. This showcase reflects not only exceptional skill, but also the creativity and heart that each of you brings to our community.”
Listed by category are all the award-winning employee artists, retirees, volunteers, and their family members, and the awards they won at the original exhibit and contest. The closing reception was held at UCNJ Union College of Union County NJ’s Scotch Plains Campus on Friday, November 21, 2025:
Overall
Best in Show – Veronica Dunscombe, Professional
Teen Art Education Award – Chloe Thompson, Teen
Professional
1st Place – Jacqueline Abend
2nd Place – Kat Block
3rd Place – Dario Scholis
Intermediate
1st Place – Clara Owens
2nd Place – Kaylee Krill
3rd Place – Alessandra Alma
Amateur
1st Place – Ivan Strom
2nd Place – Victoria Martins
3rd Place – Beverly Guest
Teen – Ages 13-18
1st Place – Elysse Brathwaite
2nd Place – Antoinette Evans
Youth – Ages 12 & Under
1st Place – Elena Boyar
2nd Place – Alessia Alma
3rd Place – Chelsea Velazquez
“I would like to thank our Union County employees, retirees, and their families for participating in this annual event. Their pieces always bring so much life and color to our gallery,” said Union County Commissioner and Liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Board, Bette Jane Kowalski. “I encourage residents to take the time to visit and enjoy the display for themselves.”
Additional support for this event was provided by a grant from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, Department of State, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. Exhibits at the Commissioners Gallery are coordinated by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs.
For more information about this exhibit and other programs and services related to the arts and Union County history, contact the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, 633 Pearl Street, Elizabeth NJ 07202. Telephone: (908) 558-2550. NJ Relay users dial 711. Or send E-mail to: culturalinfo@ucnj.org
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During a soccer match between North Plainfield Soccer Elite and Elizabeth Youth Soccer at the Warinanco Sports Center in Roselle on October 19, 2025, a report was filed alleging that a coach assaulted a player.
On November 18, 2025, Mr. Gustavo Rosas Plata of North Plainfield was charged in connection with this assault. During this match, a player was involved in a play and fell to the ground near the sideline. It was alleged that the coach of the North Plainfield team then kicked the 16-year-old player from the Elizabeth team. Officers from the Union County Police Department were contacted and investigated this claim. After conducting several interviews, viewing relevant video, and reviewing victim/witness statements, an arrest was made.
Officer Grzeda, of the Investigations Division, charged Mr. Plata with simple assault (in the presence of a child under 16 years of age at a school or community-sponsored youth sports event), N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1F, a fourth-degree offense. Mr. Plata was processed and released pending a court date in superior court.
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The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the return of the “UC Loves Small Biz” campaign as part of the annual Union County Small Business Month initiative. Running from November 29th through December 24th, the campaign encourages residents and visitors to shop, dine, and support local businesses throughout the holiday season.
“Small businesses are the backbone of every great community, and Union County is no exception,” said Commissioner Chair Lourdes M. Leon. “When you shop locally, you are supporting your neighbors, strengthening our downtowns, and helping our business districts thrive. This campaign showcases the incredible diversity and talent of our local entrepreneurs, and we’re proud to highlight the people who make Union County such a vibrant place to live.”
The UC Loves Small Biz website provides residents and visitors with direct links to local downtown districts, chambers of commerce, and municipal business directories, making it easy to explore businesses. The site also features a dedicated section for local events, promotions, and holiday specials, serving as a digital bulletin board where businesses can share updates throughout the season using the hashtag #UCLOVESSMALLBIZ.
From November 29th through December 24th, Union County’s social media platforms will highlight small businesses across all 21 municipalities through photos, videos, and featured posts. Businesses, residents, and visitors are encouraged to participate by sharing their own experiences using the hashtag #UCLOVESSMALLBIZ.
In addition to supporting local businesses, the County is once again hosting the Annual Holiday Toy Drive through December 24th, collecting new, unwrapped toys to help bring joy to families in need during the holiday season.
To view the County’s toy donation wish list, visit ucnj.org/toy-drive-list/.
As part of this effort, local businesses are invited to serve as Toy Drive drop-off locations by hosting an official donation box. Interested businesses may contact Jeff Brooks at 908-659-7412 or jeffrey.brooks@ucnj.org for more information.
“This time of year is about community—supporting our small businesses while also supporting our families,” added Chairwoman Leon. “Every local purchase and every donated toy is a reminder that no family is alone. When we give back, we make the holidays a little warmer and a little brighter for everyone. That’s what Union County is all about.”
For more information about the UC Loves Small Biz campaign, visit www.ucnj.org/uclovessmallbiz.