Category: Public Info

The Union County Board of County Commissioners encourages seniors and their caregivers to visit their local ‘ASK’ services kiosk this August. These services provide an opportunity for attendees to meet with experienced professionals who can offer expert guidance on senior programs and resources and help with form completion. Bilingual staff will be available at several events to offer support in Spanish.

“At our ‘ASK’ kiosks, our friendly and professional staff is dedicated to providing the latest information to our senior community, ensuring they are aware of helpful programs and services they might otherwise miss out on,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “No appointment or registration is necessary. Simply visit an ASK kiosk at your local library on the provided dates and get connected to the latest community services and programs available to you.”

ASK, short for Aging Services Kiosk, is a program within the Union County Department of Human Services, specifically operated by the Division on Aging. 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 the ASK kiosks 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 August:

Wednesday, August 7th
Roselle Library
129 Chestnut Street, Roselle
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tuesday, August 13th
(Bilingual staff is available)
Cranford Public Library
224 Walnut Avenue, Cranford
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tuesday, August 20th
(Bilingual staff is available)
Elizabeth Public Library – Main
11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Thursday, August 22nd
Westfield Memorial Library
550 East Broad Street, Westfield
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Wednesday, August 28th
(Bilingual staff is available)
Garwood Public Library
411 Third Avenue, Garwood
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

“We are committed to ensuring that our seniors and their caregivers have the information and assistance they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives,” said Commissioner Vice-Chairwoman Lourdes Leon, who is also Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging. “Our Office on Aging continues to hold programs like this because our senior community deserves easy access to the resources they deserve. I encourage everyone to take advantage of these services.”

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 Board of County Commissioners invites residents who are looking for a fun and rewarding civic service project to join the 4-H Master Tree Steward program and learn how to “speak for the trees.” Master Tree Stewards are community volunteers who visit 4th 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.

“Our Master Tree Stewards provide students with enriching educational experiences and important messages about trees and the environment. It’s a lesson about appreciation and stewardship that young people can carry into adulthood, benefitting our community and the world beyond for years to come,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded.

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, 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 4th grade classrooms in the spring. The program provides a complete lesson plan along with posters, seeds and other supplies. Master Tree Stewards can also organize additional projects, such as the educational “Tree Trails” in Union County parks. A list of Tree Trails in Union County parks is available here.

The 2024 fall training series will meet every Wednesday from September 4th to December 11th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, except for any holiday that falls on a Wednesday. The 4th 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 12:30pm to 1:30pm.

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 www.ucnj.org/rce. For quick links to all environmental programs and activities in Union County, visit The Green Connection, www.ucnj.org/green-connect.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce the return of the Union County Means Business Expo on Thursday, September 12^th, at the Warinanco Sports Center in Roselle, from 5:00pm to 7:30pm. Established in 2016, the program was designed to help local businesses and entrepreneurs build their networks and create new opportunities to help make the most effective possible impact when it comes to outreach and economic growth.

“Giving our local entrepreneurs the chance to showcase their innovations contributes to more job opportunities,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Residents will also be able to connect with potential business partners and resources, giving way to new collaborations and expanded networks. We are so happy to offer this valuable event to all our county entrepreneurs, business owners, and community members.” 

The Expo is open to attendees at no cost, making it an accessible and valuable event for the entire business community. This highly anticipated event is designed to support local businesses and entrepreneurs by providing a dynamic platform to build networks, grow brands, and explore new business opportunities in a modern and stylish environment.

Attendees can enjoy a complimentary tasting of the exquisite menu offered at the Warinanco Sports Center, connect with other local business owners, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to share ideas, foster partnerships, and expand their business network. Vendor and exhibitor tables are available for a fee of $100.00, and all vendors must register by September 5. All participating vendors will receive a color advertisement in the Expo program and 10 VIP tickets for an exclusive raffle. To secure your spot, visit http://www.ucnj.org/ucmb. 

Union County Means Business is an economic development initiative of the Union County Board of County Commissioners, proudly supported by community partners including the UCEDC (Union County Economic Development Corporation), the Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce, the Suburban Chamber of Commerce, Kean University, Union College of Union County, NJ, Union Township Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce, Cranford Area Chamber of Commerce and Friends of Union County.

For more information about the Union County Means Business Expo, visit http://www.ucnj.org/ucmb or contact Jeff Brooks, Coordinator for Business Development, at 908-659-7412 or jeffrey.brooks@ucnj.org.

Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying for mosquitoes Thursday Evening, July 18, 2024, 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.

Cities

• Berkeley Hts. – Grant St. Area, River Rd., Emerson La. Area, Hilltop Av., Archer Ln., River Rd., Summit Ln.
• Clark – Riverside Dr. Area
• Cranford – Kenilworth Blvd., County Police service yard
• Hillside – Westminster Area, John St., Cornell Pl., Harvard Av. Area
• Fanwood – Cray Ter., Hunter Av. Area, Terrill Rd., Vinton Ct., Willoughby Rd., Fanwood D.P.W.
• Kenilworth – 19th St., Lafayette Av., Dorset Dr., Epping Dr.
• Linden– Tremley Pt. Area, Smith St., Miner Ter. Area
• New Providence – Gales Dr. Area, Charnwood Rd., Ridgewood Av., Runnymede Pkwy.
• Plainfield–  E. Front St., Leland Av., E. 2nd St., Hillcrest Av., St. Marks Pl., E. 3rd St., Terrill Rd., St. Nicholas Blvd.,  Cushing Rd., Knollwood Ct., Cushing Pl., Columbia Av Area
• Rahway – Elston St., Randolph Ave., New Brunswick Av., Kline Pl.
• Roselle – Wooded Area on Chandler Av., Jouet St., Harrison Av., Pine St. path by RXR, Westbrook Condo’s, 1st Av. RXR tracks behind CVS
• Scotch Plains– South Ave., North Ave., Hetfield Ave., Martine Extension, UC DPW yard
• Springfield – Marion Av., Warner Av., Perry Pl., Alvin Ter., Woodside Rd., Cottage Ln., S. Springfield Av., Oakland Av., Waverly Av.
• Summit – Kent Pl. (Summit Recycling Center)
• Union – Francis Ct., Reinhold Ter., Whitewood Rd., Pitcher Ter., Wilshire Dr. Area, Hickory Rd., Liberty Av., Ridge Dr., Rahway Av.

County Parks

• Rahway – Rahway Park

City Parks

• Plainfield – Milt Campbell

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the upcoming Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting of the Roselle Memorial Library, celebrating the completion of its extensive renovation and expansion project. The event will take place on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. We invite all community members to join us for this momentous occasion.

“The Roselle Public Library has been a vital institution for almost 90 years, and with the increased demand for library services, it was time for this renovation and expansion,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “As we open these doors, let us remember that a library is a place where children can discover new worlds, where students can find the resources they need to succeed, and where people of all ages can gather to share ideas and experiences. I encourage all residents to visit the new facility and take advantage of its amenities.”

The ceremony will feature remarks from distinguished guests and speakers, including:

• Master of Ceremonies: Union County Improvement Authority Executive Director, Dr. Bibi Taylor
• New Jersey Senate President: Nicholas P. Scutari
• Union County Improvement Authority Chairman: Chris Kolibas
• Union County Commissioner Chairwoman: Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded
• Mayor of the Borough of Roselle: Donald A. Shaw

“Investing in the Roselle Memorial Library is not just about updating a building; it’s about enhancing our community’s access to resources and creating lifelong learning for all residents,” said Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados, who serves as Liaison to the Union County Improvement Authority. “This renovation will create a welcoming space that meets the evolving needs of our community, empowering individuals with the tools and knowledge necessary for personal and professional success. I extend my sincere gratitude to the Union County Improvement Authority, the State of New Jersey, and the Borough of Roselle for their collaborative efforts, which have made this vital project a reality.”

The Roselle Public Library’s renovation and expansion project, a $16 million initiative, includes a 15,400 square foot addition and the modernization of the existing building. The project was funded by a $5.5 million State Library Grant, $6.5 million from the Borough of Roselle Bond funds, and $4 million from the State Legislative Funds.

“Libraries are not just about providing books; they are about access to information, community, public spaces, workforce job centers, learning and literacy, and opportunities for personal and professional growth,” said Chris Kolibas,  Chairman of the Union County Improvement Authority. “The Roselle Library stands as a testament to our collective dedication to education, innovation, and inclusivity. This was a significant investment in Roselle’s future, and I appreciate the commitment of our government leaders who continuously work together for the benefit of the community.”

The updated library features traditional services combined with modern technology, infrastructure, and resources. It includes a new Youth Services section with teen and children’s zones, a program room, and small study rooms, as well as an accessible main entrance, expanded technology, adult collections, and flexible meeting and multipurpose rooms. The design elements aim to meet LEED certifications and create a sustainable, user-friendly environment that supports more efficient energy use.

The Roselle Library is located at 104 West 4th Avenue in Roselle, NJ. For more information, please call the Union County Improvement Authority at 908-527-4250.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to congratulate five members of the Union County 4-H Youth Development Program on their outstanding presentations.

“Public speaking is an invaluable skill for young adults, nurturing not only confidence and poise but also critical thinking and effective communication,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “These talented young individuals have demonstrated exceptional skill, creativity, and confidence. We are excited to see what the future holds for these bright scholars of Union County.”

These youth, ranging from 8^th-13^th grade, gave presentations at the Rutgers 4-H Public Presentation Contest on June 8th. The contest took place at Rutgers University in New Brunswick.Participants had the option to choose from a demonstration, an illustrated talk, a formal speech, or a performing art Any 4-H member in grades 8-13 who earned a blue ribbon at their County 4-H Public Presentation event was invited to participate in the State 4-H Public Presentations event.

Giancarlo Vicari of Union gave an illustrated talk on The Golden Age of American Animation. Andrew Snair of Fanwood performed a demonstration detailing How to Make A Loom Hat. Maria-Claire Mendonca of Elizabeth gave a formal speech on New Jersey’s Sites and History. Taylor Hodges-Freeland of Union gave an illustrated talk on The Basics of JROTC. Gabriela Cornejo of Roselle gave an illustrated talk on The Power of Hyperfocus. Gabriela was also awarded Best in Room.

Presenters were scores using a rubric specific to their presentation type. Only scores of 90-100, deemed “Excellent,” were able to advance to the State round. The 4-H Youth Development Program helps youth develop important skills and character through hands-on learning, guided by caring adults. It offers educational programs for students in grades K-13 and focuses on fostering responsibility, community awareness, and strong community partnerships. For more information about the Union County 4-H, please contact Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County 4-H Youth Development – James Nichnadowicz at 908-654-9854 ext. 3 or jnichnadowicz@ucnj.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce that Farmers Market vouchers are available for eligible Union County seniors. Each eligible senior can obtain a $50 e-benefit card to purchase “Jersey Fresh” fruits, vegetables, and herbs at participating Farmers Markets.

“Our seniors deserve access to fresh, nutritious food, and this program ensures that those in need can enjoy the benefits of our local farmers’ harvests,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “It is a wonderful opportunity to promote health and well-being in our community.”

To be eligible, seniors must be age 60 and older. A single person’s annual income cannot exceed $2,322 per month, and a married couple’s combined income may not exceed $3,152 per month.

Eligible seniors can apply by calling the Union County Division on Aging at 908-527-4870 or 888-280-8226, weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. A limited number of vouchers are available, and applications will be evaluated on a “first-come, first-served” basis.

“Programs like this are essential for our aging population,” said Commissioner Vice-Chairwoman Lourdes Leon, who also serves as Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging. “They not only provide financial support but also encourage healthy eating habits and community engagement, which are vital for maintaining a high quality of life for our seniors.”

For more information about the Farmers’ Market nutrition program, or any services provided by the Division on Aging and Disability Resource in the Union County Department of Human Services, call 1-888-280-8226, or visit online at www.ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to welcome The Little Mermen, a NYC-based Disney tribute band, along with The Fuzzy Lemons and DJ Mickey to the Summer Arts Concert Series on Saturday, July 20th in Oak Ridge Park from 12:00pm-4:00pm.

“A live, outdoor concert is the perfect family activity for the summertime,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “The combination of live music, fan-favorite songs, and costumed performances appeal to both children and adults. My own family has been lucky enough to enjoy a Little Mermen concert in the past, and we had an unforgettable time singing along and experiencing the magic together.”

The Little Mermen are a top Disney tribute band, offering a unique, entertaining, and memorable experience for all ages. Their setlist includes beloved songs from Disney classics like The Little Mermaid, Mary Poppins, Frozen, and Encanto. The band performs in full costume, dressing as characters from these films, for an immersive experience. Touring nationally, they’ve shared stages with artists like Stevie Nicks, Green Day, and Joan Jett. They offer a magical event filled with sentimental fun and sing-alongs that appeal to Disney fans of all ages.

The Fuzzy Lemons’ sets feature original songs with fun melodies and silly lyrics that get kids involved. They also play classic rock covers to keep the parents entertained. DJ Mickey will be spinning a mix of fun tunes to get everyone on their feet to start the day. There will also be inflatable attractions and a rock wall, along with other family-friendly activities and games. There will be food and ice cream on hand for purchase.

For more information about the Summer Arts Concert Series, please visit www.ucnj.org/summer24 or call the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at 908-527-4900.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the Union County Sheriff’s Department, is excited to offer a complimentary specialized self-defense training class for young women. This program is designed for those preparing to return to college, attend university for the first time, or pursue other life goals, providing valuable skills and confidence for their exciting journey ahead.

“The County of Union is committed to the safety and well-being of our young residents, especially as they start their new journeys in higher education,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This self-defense class is an invaluable opportunity for young women to learn how to protect themselves, gain confidence in their abilities, and feel empowered as they navigate this new chapter in their lives.”

This hands-on program will take place on Monday, July 29, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the John H. Stamler Police Academy, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains.

This essential class aims to empower young women with the skills and confidence needed to protect themselves in various situations. It is designed to introduce the concepts of protecting oneself from being the victim of violence, while also developing traits such as assertiveness and confidence. The program will be taught by experienced law enforcement officers and self-defense experts who will provide practical techniques and safety strategies. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on training, ensuring they leave the class feeling more prepared and secure.

“As part of our ongoing efforts to support community safety, this program is tailored to address the unique challenges that college-bound young women may face,” said Union County Sheriff Peter Corvelli. “Our goal is to provide them with practical tools and knowledge that can help them stay safe and secure.”

Participants will be required to sign a waiver to take part in the hands-on training. Comfortable clothing is recommended. Registration for the event is essential due to limited space. For more details or to register, please visit https://ucnj.org/oowselfdefense

For more information, please contact Jennifer Erdos with the Union County Office on Women at 908-527-4216 or Jerdos@ucnj.org.