Category: Public Info

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the 2026 Union County Senior Art Exhibit, featuring more than 180 original works created by older adults ages 60 and above, is now on display. The public is invited to view the exhibit now through May 27, in the Conference Center of UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ, at 1776 Raritan Road, Scotch Plains.

“The high level of talent and broad range of artworks entered this year are both powerful and inspiring,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “Our senior community has continuously proven that natural talent and a creative eye transcend age. Visitors of the exhibit can look forward to a spectacular experience.”

The exhibit is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 pm Monday through Friday, and open until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday evenings. The venue is located approximately a quarter-mile from Martine Ave. Upon entering the campus from Raritan Road, visitors should proceed to the third building on the right. Ample parking is available on site.

The annual Senior Art Exhibit showcases artworks by both professional and non-professional artists who reside in Union County. The varied media categories include drawing, pastel, watercolor, oil painting, acrylics, photography, digital art, mixed media, printmaking, craft and sculpture.

Awards for outstanding entries in each media category were selected by independent professional artists Michael Donato, Richard Russo and Barbara Wallace.

Best in Show by a Professional Artist was awarded to Mary Ann Imbriaco of Hillside for her pastel work titled “Prayer Warrior.” Best in Show by a Non-Professional Artist was awarded to Chas Bernstein of Mountainside for his craft work, “Leafspring End Table.”

First-place artworks will advance to the state level, to be exhibited in the fall at the 2026 New Jersey Senior Citizens’ Art Show in East Windsor.

The Union County Senior Art Exhibit is made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. The exhibit is coordinated annually by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a division of the Department of Parks and Recreation. For more information, email msturm@ucnj.org, or call 908-558-2550 weekdays (relay users dial 711).

For more information about cultural programs offered by the County of Union, visit www.ucnj.org/cultural.

Bilingual & Republican Poll Workers Needed

Union County residents interested in assisting voters at polling locations on Election Day still have time to apply to become poll workers. Poll workers earn $300 for the day, with hours beginning at 5:15 a.m. and continuing until at least 8:15 p.m., after the polls close. The Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.

Poll workers perform essential services on Election Day, by ensuring every eligible voter is afforded an opportunity to exercise their constitutional right to vote.  Serving as a poll worker in the 2026 Congressional Midterm Elections is a great way to be involved in the democratic process.

Any Union County resident who is 16 years or older, can apply to become a poll worker.  Union County residents who are 18 years or older shall be registered to vote.

Republican poll workers are needed to meet statutory requirements of party parity at the polling place.  Bilingual poll workers are needed to assist voters who have limited English proficiency. No experience is needed. New poll workers must attend a mandatory, in-person training session.

Prospective poll workers can apply online or by using a paper application form. To apply online, visit the Union County Board of Elections at www.ucnj.org/pollworker. To receive a paper application, call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4236 or email pollworker@ucnj.org.

For more information, visit the Poll Worker Resources page at www.ucnj.org/ucboe. You can also find additional Union County Board of Elections information on the same page.

Union County Board of Elections Administrator Nicole DiRado informs voters that the secure drop box locations for the 2026 Primary Election open on Friday, April 17, 2026. 

There are two changes in location this year in Hillside and Summit.  The Hillside drop box is moved to Conant Park, 320 Conant St.  The Summit drop box is now located at the Summit Community Center, 100 Morris Ave. The full list of drop boxes is available on the UCBOE website at www.ucnj.org/ucboe.    

All 24 secure ballot drop boxes will remain open through the close of the polls on June 2, 2026 at 8:00pm. Drop boxes are under camera surveillance 24/7, available to voters 24/7 and ADA accessible.

Additionally the list of certified polling locations is available on the Board’s website.  There are changes this year in Elizabeth, Linden, Roselle Park and Union.  Affected voters will be notified via postcard prior to Election Day.  Each voter’s polling location is also available on their sample ballot.

Voters are encouraged to bring their sample ballots with them to the polling location for easy check-in!

For a complete list of polling locations and ballot drop boxes in Union County, please visit the Board of Elections website online at www.ucnj.org/boe.   

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the Union County Sheriff’s Office announces the tragic passing of Sheriff’s Officer Joseph DeVito, who lost his life this morning in a motor vehicle accident.

Officer DeVito was a dedicated member of the Sheriff’s Office who served with honor, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the community. His loss is deeply felt by his colleagues, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The circumstances surrounding the accident are currently under investigation by the New Jersey State Police. No further details are available at this time.

“We are devastated by the loss of Officer DeVito,” said Sheriff Peter Corvelli. “He was not only a valued member of our department, but also a respected colleague and friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this incredibly difficult time.”

The Union County Sheriff’s Office asks the public to keep Officer DeVito’s family, loved ones, and fellow officers in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate this tragic loss.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi is pleased to announce that the Clerk’s Westfield office will be offering one-stop vote-by-mail (VBM) voting on Saturday, April 18th, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., ahead of the April 21st Annual Westfield School Election. The Westfield office is located at 300 North Avenue East in Westfield. 

“We encourage all eligible voters to participate and have their voices heard in this election,” said Clerk Rajoppi. “This is a great opportunity for those who prefer to avoid the crowds on Election Day and want to cast their votes efficiently and securely.”

The vote-by-mail (VBM) option provides residents with an accessible and convenient way to cast their ballots ahead of the upcoming election. Voters can take advantage of this opportunity to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot, complete it, and submit it all in one visit.

Voters should also be aware of a recent update from the United States Postal Service. Postmarks now reflect when mail is processed—not when it is dropped off—meaning ballots mailed close to Election Day could receive a later postmark. In New Jersey, vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day to be counted. Voters are encouraged to mail ballots early or use secure drop boxes to ensure timely receipt. If the postmark reflects a date after the election date, the ballot will not be valid.

For more information about vote-by-mail voting or other election-related inquiries, please contact the Union County Clerk’s office at 908-527-4996 or ucnj.org/county-clerk.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, presents Dr. Daisy Century as Phillis Wheatley, the first published African-American poet and the first African-American female published writer. The performance, in honor of National Poetry Month and the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution, will take place at 7:00pm on April 30th at The Plainfield Performing Arts Center, located at 724 Park Street in Plainfield.

“Union County is proud to celebrate the power of literature and history through this portrayal of Phillis Wheatley,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “This performance offers residents a meaningful chance to connect with an important voice from our nation’s early history while recognizing the lasting impact of poetry. Through Dr. Daisy Century’s portrayal, the audience will experience the voice of a writer whose words continue to inspire generations.”

Phillis Wheatley, born in West Africa, was forcibly taken to Boston as a child and sold to the Wheatley family, where her remarkable intellect was nurtured. She became a celebrated poet, corresponding with influential figures like George Washington after dedicating a poem to him. Though her life ended at 31, her powerful words continue to inspire readers to this day.

Dr. Daisy Century, an accomplished educator, performer, and author, brings Wheatley’s remarkable story to life with thoughtful research and dramatic storytelling. A graduate of Claflin University, South Carolina State University, and Temple University, Dr. Century has performed historical portrayals at venues including the National Archives and the Theodore Roosevelt National Historic Site, as well as schools, libraries, and museums across the country. Her performance honors Wheatley’s voice and highlights the lasting importance of poetry in American culture.

Created in 1996 by the Academy of American Poets, National Poetry Month is an annual celebration each April that highlights the influence of poetry and the writers who shape it. To register for the April 30th performance, and for more information on American Revolution 250th Anniversary events in Union County, visit www.ucj.org/250.

This event was possible by funds from the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a partner of the State of New Jersey Council on the Arts, and in part by the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce that beginning Friday, May 1^st, Farmers Market vouchers will be available for eligible Union County seniors. Each eligible senior can obtain a $40 e-benefit card to purchase “Jersey Fresh” fruits, vegetables, and herbs at participating Farmers Markets.

“Today’s economic landscape is precarious, and that can be especially true for our seniors, who often live with fixed incomes and additional constraints,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “Our Farmers Market voucher programs is a win-win for our community, ensuring that our older residents have access to fresh, nutrient-rich foods, and that our local farmers are serving as partners in that endeavor. I encourage all eligible seniors to apply.”

To be eligible, seniors must be 60 years of age or older. A single person’s monthly income may not exceed $2,413 per month, and a married couple’s combined income may not exceed $3,261 per month.

Unlike previous years, 2026 benefits will be issued onsite at participating centers throughout the county, with locations to be announced in the coming weeks at https://ucnj.org/aging. A limited number of vouchers are available, and applications will be evaluated on a “first-come, first-served” basis. Benefits can be used starting May 1^st, 2026 and will expire on November 30^th, 2026.

“From nutritional benefits to socializing, Farmers Markets bolster the health and wellness of our senior community,” said Union County Commissioner James Baker, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging. “Our voucher program helps make that connection—and creates positive habits that make our population healthier for years to come.”

For more information about the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, or any other senior services provided by the Division on Aging and Disability Resource in the Union County Department of Human Services, call 1-888-280-8226 toll-free, weekdays from 8:30am to 4:30pm, or visit online at https://ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that 44 organizations will receive funding through the 2026 Union County Local Arts Grant Program. These re-grants, totaling $300,500, represent a portion of the $434,400 Local Arts Program grant awarded to the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.

“The arts are an essential part of what makes our communities vibrant and connected,” said Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. These grants are an investment in the organizations that bring people together, inspire creativity, and enhance quality of life across Union County. We are proud to support their continued work and the meaningful experiences they provide to our residents.”

The annual program supports a wide range of arts initiatives across Union County, helping to expand access to cultural programming and strengthen the local arts community.

Local Arts Program funds for 2026 were awarded to the following organizations:

• ACP Arts Ink, $7,600 – General Operating Support

• Afternoon Music, Inc., $6,900 – General Operating Support

• Catalyst Theater Company Productions, Inc., $10,100 – General Operating Support

• CDC Theatre, $13,500 – General Operating Support

• Chinese American Music Ensemble, $5,800 – General Operating Support

• Choral Art Society of New Jersey Inc., $11,400 – General Operating Support

• City of Linden, $3,600 – Linden’s Art & Entertainment Festival

• City of Rahway Dept. of Recreation & Senior Services, $3,500 – Visual Art Classes for Children, Teens & Adults

• Community Access Unlimited, $4,600 – Individuals with Disabilities Connect with Community through Art Appreciation & Creative Expression

• Concord Singers, $8,300 – General Operating Support

• Continuo Arts Foundation, $11,300 – General Operating Support

• Cranford Public Library, $3,700 – Perfecting the Play; and Community Darkroom

• Doors of Hope Community, Inc., $1,000 – T.U.L.I.P.S. Classes (Teens Under Life’s Intense Pressure Support)

• duCret School of the Arts, $13,400 – General Operating Support

• Elizabeth Development Company of New Jersey, $3,400 – Public Art Murals Transform Public Spaces in Elizabeth

• Elizabeth Youth Theater Ensemble, $12,100 – General Operating Support

• Friends of Summit Public Art, $8,400 – General Operating Support

• Grand Artistry Inspires, $8,600 – General Operating Support

• Imperial Brass, $6,100 – General Operating Support

• Kenilworth Public Library, $3,600 – Beats, Rhythms & Roots: Celebrating Global Cultures Through the Arts

• Linden Free Public Library, $2,500 – Multi-disciplinary Programs for Children & Families at Linden Library

• Mostly Music, Inc., $7,800 – General Operating Support

• New Jersey Workshop for the Arts, Inc., $12,100 – General Operating Support

• Overlook Foundation, $3,600 – “The Poet is In” at Overlook Medical Center

• Plainfield Senior Citizens Service Center, $3,700 – Multi-Disciplinary Art Classes for Plainfield Seniors

• Plainfield Symphony Society, $13,300 – General Operating Support

• Queen City Film & Television Workshop, $3,700 – Queen City Film Festival 2026

• Rahway Valley Jerseyaires, $2,000 – General Operating Support

• Roselle Park Veterans Memorial Library, $2,000 – Concert Series with Diverse Musical Genres

• Society of Musical Arts, $3,600 – General Operating Support

• Steeple Concerts at St. Paul’s, $3,700 – Masterworks at St. Paul’s, Season Finale of concert series

• Summit Chorale, Inc., $11,200 – General Operating Support

• Summit Free Public Library, $3,700 – Music & Theater Performances at the Library

• Summit Symphony, Inc., $10,000 – General Operating Support

• The August Symphony, $4,000 – General Operating Support

• The Celebration Singers, $11,700 – General Operating Support

• The Community Players, $12,800 – General Operating Support

• The King’s Daughters Day School, $4,200 – Music, Movement and Dance Program for Children

• The Playhouse Association, Inc., $12,300 – General Operating Support

• The Theater Project, $12,500 – General Operating Support

• Township of Cranford, $3,200 – Downtown Cranford Senior Citizen Film Series

• Trinitas Foundation, $3,700 – Art for At-Risk Teens with Public Pop-Up Art Show

• Westfield Community Band Inc., $3,500 – General Operating Support

• YWCA of Eastern Union County, $2,800 – YWCA Union County Shelter’s Art Program

“Through these grants, we are able to support an incredible range of arts programming that reflects the diversity, creativity, and talent found throughout Union County,” added Commissioner Rebecca L. Williams, Liaison to the Union County Cultural and Heritage Programs Advisory Board. “From performances and exhibitions to educational opportunities for residents of all ages, these organizations play a vital role in enriching our communities and making the arts accessible to all.”

The Local Arts Program is made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.

For information about Union County grants that support arts, history, or education programming, local organizations can contact the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs at culturalinfo@ucjnj.org or (908) 558-2550. NJ Relay users may dial 711.

To stay informed about County events, services, and programs, download the free Explore Union County mobile app, available on the App Store and Google Play.

In recognition of National Alcohol Awareness Month in April, the Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services have proudly partnered with community providers New Hope Integrated Behavioral Healthcare and Prevention Links in presenting, “Community Conversation: Promoting Alcohol Awareness and Prevention,” a free webinar centered at educating the audience on prevention efforts for adults and adolescents. The webinar will take place on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and will be livestreamed via Zoom and on the County of Union Facebook page. Residents can register for free or learn more at ucnj.org/alcohol-awareness.

“Our community has been facing many challenges recently. Financial insecurities from rising costs, social conflicts happening in our country and across the world, and feelings of isolation can lead to increased alcohol consumption and addiction. That is why it is important for us to take this time to raise awareness, educate our residents, and, more importantly, to include our youth in the conversation,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “By working together, we learn to recognize the signs, seek help, and find healthier alternatives to combat stress, building a stronger, more resilient community along the way.”

The free webinar will be hosted by New Hope Integrated Behavioral Health and Prevention Links, Inc., with New Hope focusing on adult prevention efforts and Prevention Links detailing preventative techniques for adolescents. Questions from the audience are encouraged for the interactive live session. Interested participants are welcome to submit their questions by email to obhsm@ucnj.org, prior to the event. All emailed submissions will remain anonymous.

“We are excited to collaborate with dedicated partners like New Hope Healthcare and Prevention Links in bringing this program to residents. Together, we are removing the stigma of this disease by openly discussing it, giving our community the tools and support that they need to live a life that does not include substance misuse,” said Union County Commissioner Stanley J. Neron, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “We invite all residents to submit their questions and join us on the 21st for what promises to be an enlightening discussion.”

In addition to the webinar, the County of Union will raise awareness on alcohol misuse, overuse, and prevention measures throughout the month of April, including lighting the courthouse in red April 20^th through April 24^th. Banners honoring Alcohol Awareness month will be hung in the lobby of the County Administration Building, located at 10 Elizabethtown Plaza in Elizabeth.

A national helpline run by the Council on Substance Abuse – National Council on Alcoholism is available to the public at 800-662-HELP (4357) to provide free, confidential referrals and information on a 24/7, 365-day-a-year basis.

For more information about the 2026 Alcohol Awareness campaign in Union County, please contact Gene Tavera, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Coordinator, Division of Individual & Family Support Services, Office on Behavioral Health and Substance Misuse, in the Union County Department of Human Services at gene.tavera@ucnj.org or 908-527-4844.

To learn more about events and programs offered through the department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs/.

Update 04/22/26: In anticipation of inclement weather, the Autism Acceptance Celebration & Resource Fair will now take place indoors at the Warinanco Sports Center, located at 1 Park Drive in Roselle.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services invite residents to the 2026 Autism Acceptance Celebration and Resource Fair, taking place on Saturday, April 25th, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Turf Field in Warinanco Park, Roselle. The annual event is held in April to recognize Autism Acceptance Month, spread awareness, and celebrate individuals experiencing autism and other sensory sensitivities.

“Events such as our Autism Acceptance Fair provide an opportunity for residents to come together and celebrate the unique strengths and abilities of individuals living with autism. They also serve as an opportunity for sharing challenges and learning more about the resources and supports available. By educating ourselves, we break away from the fear and stigma that surrounds autism and further strengthen the supportive and inclusive community Union County is known for, and where everyone feels accepted,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “Join us for a fun day making new memories and celebrating our loved ones. I hope to see everyone on the field.”

The 2026 Autism Acceptance Celebration & Resource Fair is a superhero-themed celebration, and attendees are encouraged to dress up in their favorite superhero costumes. The event will feature a variety of fun outdoor activities, including a live DJ, touch-a-truck experience, games, giveaways, and light refreshments. While attendance at the Autism Acceptance Celebration is always free, pre-registration is required. To register, visit ucnj.org/opdsn-reg or call 908-527-4781.

“Elizabeth Public Schools is proud to partner with the Union County Board of County Commissioners and other great departments and organizations within Union County to support families affected by autism,” said Superintendent Dr. Olga Hugelmeyer. “Our schools are built on the promise of every child achieving excellence and a shining example of that promise being fulfilled is the students of our autism program whose successes are truly inspiring. It is a great honor to celebrate their uniqueness and recognize their exceptional growth and development with the greater community. Thank you all who makes this wonderful event possible!”

Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a developmental disability marked by unique sensory sensitivities, challenges in social and communication skills, and other behavioral traits. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that approximately 1 in 14 adults and 1 in 31 children nationwide are affected by autism. In New Jersey, the statistics show that 1 in 29 children is diagnosed with ASD, highlighting the importance of community awareness and understanding of the neurological condition.

The County of Union invites residents to join in observing World Autism Awareness Day on Thursday, April 2nd, by wearing blue to show their support and acceptance for the millions of individuals around the globe affected by autism. On this day, Union County will illuminate the front of the courthouse in blue and invite residents to join in by lighting up their homes blue as well.

“We firmly believe that having a great support system, both at home and in the community, empowers individuals living with autism and other sensory challenges – especially children – to live safe, happy, and healthy lives,” said Union County Commissioner Stanley J. Neron, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Board. “We would also like to thank the exceptional local organizations that have partnered with us. The expression ‘it takes a village’ truly reflects the spirit of this collaboration. This event would not have achieved its significant positive impact on the autism community in Union County without their hard work and contributions.”

The 2026 Autism Acceptance Celebration is brought to you by the Union County Board of County Commissioners, the Department of Human Services through the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, and in collaboration with the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation, The Sergio Granados Foundation, Prevention Links, the Elizabeth Parent Support Group, Elizabeth Public Schools and its Division of Special Services, and Elizabeth Fire & EMS.

For more information about the Autism Acceptance Celebration and Resource Fair, or other events and programs hosted by the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, call 908-527-4781 or visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn.

To learn more about events and programs offered through the Department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs/.