Category: Public Info

La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union invita a los adultos mayores y a sus cuidadores a explorar la amplia gama de programas y recursos disponibles en los próximos eventos de los Kioscos de Servicios para la Tercera Edad (ASK) en julio. Estos eventos permiten a los asistentes reunirse personalmente con profesionales con experiencia que pueden brindar orientación y asistencia con diversos servicios, incluyendo la cumplimentación de formularios. Habrá personal bilingüe disponible en dos fechas durante julio para brindar apoyo en español.

“Nuestros eventos de los Kioscos de Servicios para la Tercera Edad ofrecen a los adultos mayores la oportunidad de recibir ayuda para completar solicitudes, conocer diversos programas disponibles localmente y acceder a los recursos necesarios, como planes de entrega de comidas, servicios de transporte, atención domiciliaria y mucho más”, declaró Lourdes M. Leon, Presidenta de la Junmta de Comisionados del Condado de Union. “Animo a todas los adultos mayores y sus cuidadores a visitar un evento de ASK cercano y descubrir cómo este servicio puede mejorar su calidad de vida”.

El Kiosco de Servicios para la Tercera Edad es operado por la División de la Tercera Edad, una rama del Departamento de Servicios Humanos del Condado de Union. Ofrece a los adultos mayores de 60 años, junto con sus cuidadores, una vía amigable y conveniente para descubrir programas y servicios valiosos y hablar individualmente con un profesional de la División sobre el Envejecimiento.

El personal de los centros ASK puede ayudar a los adultos mayores y a sus cuidadores a conectarse con diversos servicios, como comidas a domicilio, atención de relevo, atención domiciliaria, centros de día para adultos y servicios de apoyo para cuidadores. Cualquier persona mayor o cuidador del Condado de Union puede visitar cualquier Kiosco ASK, independientemente de su ciudad de residencia. No se necesita cita previa ni inscripción previa. A continuación, se detallan los próximos eventos ASK en julio:

Jueves, 17 de julio

(Personal Bilingüe disponible)

Garwood Public Library

411 Third Avenue

Garwood, 07027

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Miércoles, 23 de julio

Hillside Public Library

1409 Liberty Avenue

Hillside, 07205

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Martes, 29 de julio

(Personal Bilingüe disponible)

Clark Public Library

303 Westfield Avenue

Clark, 07066

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

“Para nosotros es importante que nuestra comunidad de adultos mayores se sienta plenamente apoyada, especialmente en las últimas etapas de la vida. Nuestro personal de la División para el Envejecimiento se compromete a brindarles apoyo en cada etapa del proceso y contará con miembros bilingües disponibles en varios eventos cada mes para ayudar a nuestros residentes hispanohablantes”, declaró James Baker, Comisionado del Condado de Union y Enlace con el Consejo Asesor sobre el Envejecimiento.

Para obtener más información sobre los eventos ASK y otros servicios para adultos mayores en el Condado de Union, comuníquese con la División para el Envejecimiento y la Conexión de Recursos para la Discapacidad al 1-888-280-8226 (sin costo) o visite nuestro sitio web ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners announces the 2025 edition of the Family Fun and Flix program, beginning on July 15th, 2025 with the showing of “Moana 2” at Warinanco Park in Elizabeth. The free Family Fun and Flix program will run through August with various family-friendly movies.

“There’s nothing better than getting together with your friends and family and watching a movie or listening to live music under the stars,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “The summertime is the best time to unwind, and here in Union County, we’re lucky to have so many beautiful parks to enjoy the warm weather in. We hope all residents will come make memories, meet new people, and enjoy the outdoors with us this summer.”

The Family Fun and Flix fun begins at 7:30pm with family-friendly festivities. An ice cream truck will be on site for attendees who wish to purchase a snack. Each movie, weather permitting, will begin at dusk. Residents are encouraged to bring a blanket or beach chair to claim a spot on the lawn. The 2025 Family Fun and Flix schedule is listed below:

• Tuesday, July 15^th – Moana 2
• Tuesday, July 22^nd – Inside Out 2
• Tuesday, July 29^th – Despicable Me 4
• Tuesday, August 12^th – Kung Fu Panda 4
• Tuesday, August 19^th – Mufasa: The Lion King

In addition to the Family Fun and Fix program kicking off in July, Union County’s annual free concert series, the Union County Summer Arts Festival, begins on July 9^th. The concert schedule is listed below:

• Wednesday, July 9^th at Echo Lake Park – Never Say Goodbye: Bon Jovi Tribute, beginning at 7:30pm with a yoga class before the concert at 6:30pm.
• Saturday, July 19^th at Warinanco Park – Freestyle Concert featuring TKA, Judy Torres and Soave, from 4:00pm-8:00pm.
• Wednesday, August 13^th at Oak Ridge Park – Hey Bulldog: The Beatles Experience, beginning at 7:30pm with a yoga class before the concert at 6:30pm.
• Saturday, August 23^rd at Oak Ridge Park – Zabo Circus, Michael & The Rockness Monsters and Joanie Leeds, from 12:00pm-4:00pm with family activities and fun for all.

The Summer Arts Festival is made possible by donations from the Union County Education Association. For more information about Family Fun and Flix or the Summer Arts Festival, please visit www.ucnj.org/summer25 or call the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at 908-527-4900.

July is Disability Pride Month, and in recognition of the occasion, the Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to visit the 2025 Art for All Abilities Exhibit. This special exhibit features 20 original works created by Union County residents of all abilities and will be on display throughout the month of July at the Commissioner’s Gallery, located on the 6th floor of the Union County Administration Building, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza in Elizabeth. The gallery is free and open to the public Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

“Disability Pride Month is a time to uplift, empower, and celebrate,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “This exhibit is more than art on display — it’s a powerful reminder that creativity knows no boundaries. We’re proud to provide a platform where residents of all abilities can be seen, heard, and celebrated for their talent and individuality.”

The featured works were created during “Arts of All Abilities” classes hosted by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, in which local artist Dario Scholiscoached participants in technique and self-expression. The program was launched in 2023 in response to a growing need in the community for inclusive art programs for persons with disabilities, allowing them opportunities to learn new skills, express themselves artistically, and establish connections in their community.

“Art is one of the most impactful ways we connect, communicate, and understand one another,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “Through programs like Art for All Abilities, we’re not just fostering inclusion — we’re investing in equity, expression, and opportunity. These artists are not only sharing their stories, they’re enriching the cultural fabric of Union County.”

“The Department of Human Services is proud to offer programs like the Art for All Abilities that give residents access to free and inclusive experiences to express themselves and learn new skills,” said Debbie-Ann Anderson, Director of the Union County Department of Human Services. “We are dedicated to providing opportunities that foster a welcoming atmosphere for participants and strengthen their sense of community.”

An opening reception on Tuesday, June 24, 2025 allowed the artists to spend time with Scholis, view each other’s art, and enjoy refreshments. The event highlighted the impact of having the opportunity to express themselves through art, learn new skills, & connect with the community in a welcoming environment.

All exhibits displayed at the Commissioners Gallery are coordinated by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a part of the Department of Parks and Recreation.

For more information about upcoming programs or events hosted by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, an office of the Division of Individual and Family Support Services, Union County Department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn or call (908) 527-4781.

Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying for mosquitoes Thursday, June 26, 2025, between the hours of 6:00PM to 11:00PM ((Weather Permitting)). Check below for a list of areas to be sprayed. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Union County Office of Mosquito Control at 908-654-9834 or 908-654-9835.

• Berkeley Heights – Grant St. Area, Camptown Dr., Delmore Ave.  area
• Clark – Emerald Pl., Featherbed Ln., Raritan Rd., Frances Dr., Grouse Ln., Rolling Hill Way.
• Elizabeth – Clarkson Ave.
• Fanwood – Fanwood D.P.W., Forepaugh Ave., Weaver St., Farley Ave., Pleasant Ave.
• Hillside – Harvard Av., Aldine St., Cornell Pl., Leo St.
• Kenilworth – Dorset Dr., Epping Dr.
• Linden – Range Rd., Tremley Pt.  area
• New Providence – Union Ave., Central Ave., Runnymede Pkwy.
• Plainfield – Jefferson Ave., Rock Ave., 1^st Ave., Wiley Ave., Cambridge Ave., Bradford St.
• Rahway – Rutherford St., Leesville Ave., Capobianco Plaza.
• Roselle – E. 2^nd St., E. 3^rd St.
• Scotch Plains – Frank St., Country Club Ln., Pheasant Ln.
• Union – Vauxhall Rd., Gifford Ct.
• Westfield – Livingston St., Ripley Ave., Stirling Pl., Cacciola Pl.
• Winfield – U.C. Parkway Dr./Parkway Dr., Seafoam Ave., Wavecrest Ave.

Check this page for future cooling stations around Union County

The Union County Board of County Commissioners welcomes seniors and caregivers to explore the wide range of senior programs and resources available at upcoming Aging Services Kiosk (ASK) events in July. 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 two dates in July to provide support in Spanish.

“Our Aging Services Kiosk events offer the opportunity for seniors to get assistance with filling out applications, learn about a variety of senior programs that are locally available, and get connected to necessary resources that include meal delivery plans, transportation services, home care, and much more,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “I encourage all seniors and caregivers to visit a nearby ASK event and see how this service can improve your quality of life.”

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 July:

Thursday, July 17th

(Bilingual staff available)

Garwood Public Library

411 Third Avenue

Garwood, 07027

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Wednesday, July 23rd

Hillside Public Library

1409 Liberty Avenue

Hillside, 07205

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tuesday, July 29th

(Bilingual staff available)

Clark Public Library

303 Westfield Avenue

Clark, 07066

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

“It is important to us that our senior community feels fully supported, especially in the later stages of life. Our Division on Aging staff is committed to assisting you every step of the way, and will have bilingual team members available at various events each month to help our Spanish-speaking residents,” said Union County Commissioner and Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging, James Baker.

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.

Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying County and City Parks Wednesday morning, June 25, 2025, between the hours of 3:00 A.M. to 7:00 A.M. (Weather Permitting). Check below for the list of Parks to be sprayed. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Union County Office of Mosquito Control at 908-654-9834 or 908-654-9835.

County Parks

• Kenilworth – Black Brook
• Linden – Wheeler
• Mountainside – Echo Lake
• Rahway – Rahway
• Springfield – Meisel
• Summit – Bryant

City Parks

• Linden – Peach Orchard, Memorial Field

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the Union County Sheriff’s Office, is excited to offer free specialized self-defense training classes for women ages 18 – 23 at the John H. Stamler Police Academy, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains. Two sessions are being offered – Tuesday, July 22, and Tuesday, July 29, both from 6:00pm to 8:00pm.

“These classes are your chance to develop real-life skills and take charge of your personal safety,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “We want every young woman to feel strong, confident, and prepared—especially as you head back to campus this fall. To our college students home for the summer, now is the perfect time to invest in your safety.”

Experienced and certified officers will guide participants through effective self-defense techniques, safety strategies, and ways to reduce risk in everyday situations. Participants will learn not only self-defense techniques, but also how to sharpen their situational awareness to recognize and avoid danger before it escalates. This class is designed for women to build confidence and gain skills to protect themselves and those they care about, empowering them to respond to threats.

“Being aware of your surroundings is one of the most powerful tools you can have,” said Union County Sheriff Peter Corvelli. “These self-defense classes aren’t just about self-defense moves, but learning how to spot red flags and how to make quick decisions under stress. We want young women to head into every situation, whether home in Union County or back on campus, with confidence.”

To participate, attendees must complete a waiver and are advised to wear comfortable gym attire. For more information or to register, please visit www.ucnj.org/women. To contact Jennifer Erdos at the Union County Office on Women, please call at 908-527-4216 or email Jerdos@ucnj.org.

This information is subject to change. We strongly encourage you call the Union County Human Services Action Line at 908-677-5405 to ensure the cooling center you plan on utilizing is open.

Elizabeth         

• Fred Erxleben Rec. Center
  • 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM
  • 513 Richmond St.
• Mickey Walker Rec. Center
  • 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM
  • 860 Anna St.
• Peterson Community Center
  • 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM
  • 418 Palmer St.

Hillside

• Hillside Community Center
  • 8 AM – 8 PM
  • 274 Hillside Avenue

Linden

• Linden Public Library
  • Monday – Wednesday
  • 9:00 AM – 9 PM
  • 31 East Henry Street
• John T. Gregorio Recreation Center
  • Monday – Friday
  • 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
  • 330 Helen Street
• Linden Multi-Purpose Center
  • Monday – Friday
  • 9 AM – 8 PM
  • 1025 John Street

New Providence

• DeCorso Community Center – Card Room
  • June 19 – June 21
  • 10 AM – 6 PM
  • 15 East Fourth St.

Plainfield

• Senior Center
  • June 18 – June 21
  • 8 AM – 8 PM
  • Corner of 400 East Front and Church St.

Roselle

• Amalfe Community Center
  • 1268 Shaffer Avenue

Roselle Park

• Casano Community Center
  • June 20 – June 21
  • 10 AM – 9 PM
  • 314 Chestnut St.

Scotch Plains

• Tuesday June 18, 2024,
  • Municipal Building Courtroom
  • • 9:00am to 4:00pm
  • Scotch Plains Public Library,
    • 9:30am – 5:00pm
• Wednesday June 19, 2024
  • Municipal Building Courtroom
  • • 9:00am to 5:30pm
  • Library is closed
• Thursday June 20, 2024
  • Municipal Building
  • • 9:00am to 1:00pm
  • Library
    • 9:30am to 9:00pm
• Friday June 21, 2024
  • Library
    • 9:30 – 5:00pm
• Saturday June 22, 2024
  • Library
    • 9:30am – 5:00pm

Springfield

• Chisholm Community Center
  • Wednesday, June 19, 2024
    • 8:00 AM to 8:30 PM
  • Thursday, June 20, 2024
    • 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
  • Friday, June 21, 2024
    • 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• 100 South Springfield Avenue (corner of Shunpike Road)

Summit

• Summit Community Center
  • Friday only
  • 9 AM – 8 PM
  • 100 Morris Avenue
• Summit Free Public Library
  • 9 AM – 9 PM
  • 75 Maple St
• Summit Police Department lobby
  • 8 AM – 8 PM
  • 512 Springfield Ave

Westfield

• Memorial Library
  • 550 E Broad St
  • Monday through Friday 9:30 am – 8:30 pm
  • Friday and Saturday 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
  • Sunday 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Learn how to help the environment and teach about the importance of trees – no experience necessary.

Union County residents who are looking for a fun and rewarding civic service project can join the 4-H Master Tree Steward program and learn how to “speak for the trees.” Master Tree Stewards are community volunteers who visit 4^th grade classrooms each spring to present an interactive lesson on trees. No experience is needed. All training and classroom materials are provided by the Master Tree Steward program.

“The Master Tree Stewards program is a wonderful way for volunteers to make a meaningful impact right here in Union County,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “By sharing knowledge about trees and the environment with young students, you can help inspire the next generation to care for the natural world. It’s a simple, but powerful way to build a stronger and greener future.”

Each fall, the Master Tree Steward program offers a series of training sessions, consisting mainly of guided walks in nearby parks and nature reserves. Easy reading assignments, indoor classes, and a simple project are also part of the program. The entire program, including a tree identification guide, is covered by a $25.00 administrative fee.

Applicants who complete the series obtain a Master Tree Steward certificate and are qualified to teach lessons about trees to 4^th grade classrooms in the spring. The program provides a complete lesson plan along with posters, seeds and other supplies.

The 2025 fall training series will meet every Wednesday from September 3^rd to December 10^th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., except for any holiday that falls on a Wednesday.

The 4^th grade classroom visit schedule takes place on Wednesdays from January to June. Certified Master Tree Stewards are requested to choose 6 dates for their visits. Each visit takes approximately one hour, typically from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

To apply, or for more information please contact Union County 4-H Youth Development at James Nichnadowicz at 908-654-9854 (ext.3), or jnichnadowicz@ucnj.org.

The Master Tree Steward program is run by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County, as part of a statewide program under the umbrella of the Rutgers New Jersey Agriculture Experiment Station. For information on all Extension programs in Union County, including Master Gardeners, Environmental Stewards and 4-H clubs for youth, visit ucnj.org/rce.