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Photos – State of New Jersey to present Union County Check for New Indoor Ice Skating Rink

“On behalf of the Union County Board of County Commissioners, I would like to thank the Senate President and the State of New Jersey for providing us the funding for this much-anticipated project,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams. “Right now, we have a great facility in use, but it can only be used seasonally; with the construction of a new state-of-the-art indoor skating rink, we will be able to offer year-round use of the building, attracting even more visitors and leagues. I am looking forward to watching this rink come to life.”

In a contract to be awarded to USA Architects, the concept design for the new facility will feature a second sheet of ice increasing the capacity of the facility. The project for the new rink is slated to begin by the end of 2023 with an estimated completion date of 2025.

“We are proud to support a new skating rink that will serve communities throughout Union County,” said Senate President Scutari. “A year-round rink will provide more young hockey players and recreational skaters the opportunity to use a state-of-art facility for healthy and enjoyable activities. The Warinanco Sports Center will continue to be a premiere attraction for Union County.”  

Since 1961, area families have enjoyed the seasonal skating in the park — and in 2019 the skating building was renovated and renamed to the Warinanco Sports Center, which sits adjacent to the skating rink. The seasonal rink, which generally opens at the end of November is home to 8 Union County high school hockey teams and hosts more than 50,000 skaters every year.

“This is a real boost for families and young people in Union County who will now have a modern rink available throughout the year,” said Senator Joe Cryan. “The sporting events and recreational skating will be more accessible and more affordable for working families. The new Warinanco Center will be an active and important part of the Union County community.”

“As youth sports become more and more expensive, a new county facility will allow non-profits like the Cranford Hockey Club and many Union County high school boys and girls ice hockey programs to keep this sport affordable in the rapidly changing landscape of for-profit youth sports,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados. “Once completed, the Warinanco Sports Center will be even more of an attraction to residents and visitors, who come from all over to use the facility.”

“The creation of a new ice rink at Warinanco Park is a transformative moment for youth sports in Union County and North Jersey,” said Mike DuHaime, president of the non-profit Cranford Hockey Club. “The new rink will allow us to keep costs down for families, play more games here in Union County, and most importantly start a scholarship program, opening the doors for so many more children locally to play ice hockey, so cost will no longer be a barrier to access to the ice. The Cranford Hockey Club and the entire hockey community of Union County and beyond thank Senate President Scutari, Commissioner Williams, and the entire board of commissioners for their foresight and efforts in making this new rink a reality.”

Established in 1956, the Cranford Hockey Club is the oldest travel hockey club in the state of New Jersey. Nearly 300 children ages 5-18 are currently part of the club’s travel and learn-to-play programs.  Warinanco Park has been its home rink for decades, though due to increased demand, the teams hold some of its home games and practices elsewhere.  As a non-profit, the club is run solely by volunteers, including the board, coaches, and team managers. More information on the club’s scholarship program can be found at https://www.cranfordhockeyclub.com/scholarship

For more information about Warinanco Sports Center and Ice Skating Rink, please visit https://warinancopark.com/.

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Explore the World of Gems, Minerals and Jewelry at Trailside Nature and Science Center

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Union County residents and visitors are invited to explore the fascinating world of rocks, minerals, fossils, gems and jewelry at the Trailside Nature and Science Center in Mountainside on Saturday, November 5 and Sunday, November 6 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on both days.  Admission to the event is free.

mineral, gem, jewelry show

Trailside is part of the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation. It is located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside, in Union County’s Watchung Reservation. Ample free parking is available on the site.

“The show is a unique opportunity for Union County residents and visitors of all ages to learn about the world of rocks and gems,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams. “Whether you’re a geology enthusiast or simply have a casual interest, there is something for everyone.”

A wide variety of specimens will be on display along with many items for sale, from child-friendly geodes, arrowheads and fluorescent minerals to jewelry, fine gems and collector-grade pieces.

Sponsored jointly with the New Jersey Mineralogical Society and the New Jersey Lapidary Society, the Mineral, Gem and Jewelry Show will host more than 20 vendors offering minerals, rocks, gemstones, jewelry, sea shells and fossils from around the world.

Trailside is open regularly on Tuesdays through Sundays except holidays, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is free of charge. A modest fee applies to scheduled programs. For more information about all programs offered this fall at Trailside, call 908-789-3670 or visit ucnj.org/trailside.

Quick links to all programs and activities in Union County parks are available at ucnj.org/parks.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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Union County Offers Convenient, Expert Guidance for Seniors Seeking Services

Seniors and their caregivers can come to Union County’s ASK events on November 3, 9, 14 and 16, and meet in person with professional staff for expert guidance on senior programs and resources. Bilingual staff will be available to assist residents in Spanish during the events on November 3 and 16.

ask(aging services kiosk)

The assistance includes help with filling out applications and forms

“The ASK program is a friendly, convenient way to find out about helpful programs and services, and our bilingual staff will help ensure that we can reach everyone who is seeking assistance,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams. 

ASK stands for Aging Services Kiosk, a program of the Union County Department of Human Services through the Division on Aging and Disability Resources, serving seniors age 60-plus and their caregivers.

Staff at the ASK events can help seniors and care givers connect with a variety of services including home delivered meals, respite care, home care, adult day care and support services for caregivers.

Any Union County senior or care giver can visit any ASK event, regardless of their hometown.

No appointment or pre-registration is needed.

The upcoming events are as follows:


Thursday, November 3

Bilingual staff will be available at this event to assist residents in Spanish

Union Public Library

1060 Stuyvesant Avenue, Union, 07083

10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.

Wednesday, November 9

Garwood Public Library

411 Third Avenue, Garwood, 07027

10:00 – 12:00

Monday, November 14

Clark Public Library

303 Westfield Avenue, Clark, 07066

10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.

Wednesday, November 16

Bilingual staff will be available at this event to assist residents in Spanish

Elizabeth Public Library

11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth, 07202

12:00 P.M. – 2:00 P.M.

To check for other upcoming ASK events, call the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection 1-888-280-8226 toll free or visit the Division online at ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

ASK updates are also posted on Union County’s social media channels and are frequently carried by local media, both print and digital.

The goal of the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection is to promote wellness, independence, dignity and choice for seniors and their families, in accordance with a statewide initiative adopted by Union County in 2012. It is one of 622 “Area Agencies on Aging” nationwide established under the federal Older Americans Act.   

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

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Final Scrap Metal Recycling Events of 2022 for Union County Residents

Free drop-off sites available November 3 and November 19.

Union County residents can dispose of old metal gutters, fencing, appliances and much more to free scrap metal recycling drop-off sites in November. The scrap metal recycling program is sponsored by the Union County Board of County Commissioners and takes place twice each month from April to November.

scrap metal recycling flyer

The last scrap metal events of the 2022 season will take place on Thursday, November 3 and Saturday, November 19. After the November events the scrap metal recycling program will be on hiatus until the spring of 2023.

“Recycling scrap metal is an important way to conserve resources, and we encourage every household to make use of this free service,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams. “These drop-off sites make it easy and convenient to clear your home and yard of unwanted metal items while helping the environment, too.”

Many different kinds of scrap metal are accepted at the drop-off centers including air conditioners, aluminum siding, bicycles, brass, copper, dishwashers, electric fans, fencing, freezers, gutters, irons, lawn furniture, metal cabinets, metal sheds, microwaves, pots and pans, railings, refrigerators, stoves, tire rims, toasters, washers and dryers, window frames (no glass), and wire hangers among others.

Scrap metal drop-off will be accepted Thursday, November 3 and Saturday, November 19 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at two free drop-off centers:

  • Cranford:  Emergency Services Building, 151 Kenilworth Boulevard
  • Rahway: Rahway River Park (follow Park Drive, Rahway off St. Georges Avenue to service yard across from swimming pool)

Scrap metal from residents in any Union County municipality may be brought to either of these sites.

Please note that Union County’s scrap metal recycling events are drive-up only, and contact-free.

Participants must remain in their vehicles at all times.  Materials should be placed in trunk, cargo area or truck bed and be easily accessible for staff to remove.

For more information, upcoming dates and directions to all Union County recycling programs and locations, visit the Bureau of Recycling and Planning website at ucnj.org/recycle or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889.

To receive schedule alerts, and to stay up to date with Union County and local recycling programs, download the free Recycle Coach mobile app.

Quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities are available at The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

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Model Train Show and Open House Returns to Union County for the Holidays, Nov. 25 – Dec. 11

A family favorite holiday tradition is returning to Union County this year, as the Model Railroad Club opens the doors to the spectacular A. Paul Mallory Railroad Center for visitors of all ages, from Friday November 25 to Sunday, December 11. 

train show

Visitors to the Holiday Train Show and Open House can get an up-close look at special trains traversing the club’s huge 11,000 square foot layout. Included are famous trains of the past such as the Santa Fe’s famous Super Chief and the Pennsylvania Railroad’s Broadway Limited, along with AMTRAK’s Acela Express and many, many more.

“The Model Railroad Club has provided a generation of Union County residents and visitors with a unique window into the art, craft, history and technology of model railroading, and the Commissioner Board is very proud to support their work. We are all looking forward to the Holiday Train Show,” said Commissioner Rebecca L. Williams.

“The club is very excited to put on our holiday train show for our fans again this year. We hope that our trains can put a smile on the face of the little kid in all of us this holiday season,” said Model Railroad Club President Tim McCollum.

Visitors of all ages can view the sprawling HO scale layout at the Railroad Center from several different levels, including an eye-level view, a birds-eye view from a gallery, and “peek-a-boo” access points within the layout itself.

trains on tracks

Also on display is a massive new expansion of the layout, enabling visitors to see how track is being hand-laid, and how mountains and scenery are created. Railroad Club members will also explain the planning and engineering behind the unique bi-level corkscrew loop.

Rounding out the displays are detailed G-scale and N-scale layouts along with other railroad memorabilia.

There is also a small play area and a railroad-themed gift shop at the Railroad Center.

Dates:

Three Weekends: Nov 25-Nov 27, Dec 3-Dec 4, and Dec 10-11

Opening Day, Fri, Nov. 25 – 11 am – 6 pm       

Saturdays (Nov 26, Dec 3 & 10), 11 am – 6 pm

Sundays (Nov 27, Dec 4 & 11), 11am – 6pm

Location:

The A. Paul Mallory Railroad Center 

Jefferson Avenue, off Route 22 East, Union Township (behind The Home Depot)

Building is wheelchair-accessible.

Parking is free

Ticket sales and Railroad Club Information:

Purchase tickets online:www.themodelrailroadclub.org

Purchase tickets at the door: Saturdays 1-4 pm ONLY at The Model Railroad Club

In Advance: $9/adult, $4/child (3-11), $7/Seniors (60+)

At the Door: $10/adult, $5/child, $8/seniors

More information: (908) 964-9724

Children age 2 and under are admitted free.

Groups of 10 or more can call (908) 964-9724 for discount information.

All visitors must observe posted COVID-19 guidelines. 

The A. Paul Mallory Railroad Center is located in a mixed-use corner of Union County’s Lenape Park in Union Township, through an arrangement with the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation. Members of The Model Railroad Club raised the funds to build the facility, and they continue to operate and maintain it.

The Model Railroad Club, Inc. is a tax-exempt public charity and is one of the largest railroad clubs in New Jersey. The Club has approximately 170 volunteer members who help to fulfill the mission of the club to educate the general public about the railroads and the industries they served in the New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania areas.

All proceeds from the Holiday Train Show support the operations of The Model Railroad Club, Inc.

For more information about all programs and activities of the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation visit ucnj.org/parks.

All photos courtesy of The Model Railroad Club, Inc.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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Union County Clerk Reminds Voters on Redistricting

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi reminds voters that due to Congressional redistricting, several Union County municipalities have had their Congressional District changed for the 2022 election. The sample ballots reflect these changes.

government building

The changes were determined by the New Jersey Redistricting Commission.

The affected Union County municipalities are as follows:

  • Voters in Fanwood, Rahway and Scotch Plains are now in the 7th Congressional District. 
  • Voters in Cranford, Garwood, Kenilworth and Union are now in the 10th Congressional District.
  • Voters in Linden are now split between the 7th and 10th Congressional Districts:

The 7th Congressional District includes Ward 2 Districts 1-2-3, Ward 3 Districts 2 and 3, Ward 6 Districts 1-2-3 and Ward 7 Districts 1-2-3-4.

The 10th Congressional District includes all other wards

“The New Jersey Redistricting Commission is mandated by our State Constitution to draw the lines of the State’s congressional districts which must be substantially equal in population.  This is a process which occurs after the Federal Census every 10 years,” Ms. Rajoppi stated.

An official redistricting congressional map that shows the changes effective this year is available online at:

For more information about the County Clerk’s election services visit unioncountyvotes.com or contact the Elections Division at 908-527-4996 or ucvote@ucnj.org.

For more information about all County Clerk programs and services, visit online at ucnj.org/county-clerk or call 908-527-4787.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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Union County to Offer New COVID-19 Booster Shots for Children Ages Five and Up

The Union County Board of County Commissioners announces that Union County residents age five years and older can now obtain the new bivalent COVID-19 booster shots formulated by Pfizer and Moderna, authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and approved by the Centers for Disease Control.

free vaccination and booster shots flyer

The new bivalent booster shots target recent Omicron variants that are more transmissible and immune-evading. The new Pfizer pediatric booster is for ages 5 to 11. The Moderna booster is for ages 6 to 17. Children age 6 to 11 can take either the Moderna or the Pfizer booster.

Both of the new pediatric bivalent booster shots are available at any vaccination clinic run by Union County beginning on Tuesday, October 18.

“The new booster shots for children mark another step in our efforts to ensure that approved COVID-19 vaccines and booster shots are available to Union County residents as quickly as possible, helping to save lives and prevent long term health impacts. We encourage every resident to obtain a new bivalent booster shot as soon as they are eligible,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams.

In order to receive the new bivalent booster, children must first complete their primary vaccination series, consisting of two doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, or one dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. They can receive the new booster two months after their primary vaccination is complete.

Children who have already received a booster shot can receive the new booster two months after their previous shot.

Children and adults who have received the new Novavax vaccine are not yet eligible for any booster at this time.

The vaccination clinics run by Union County welcome walk-ins for booster shots, but appointments are recommended. Residents who previously scheduled a monovalent booster shot at a Union County vaccination clinic will need to make a new appointment to receive a bivalent booster.

To make an appointment online visit the Union County COVID-19 portal at ucnj.org/covid19/ or call 908-613-7829 for assistance.

As a reminder, the monovalent booster shots are no longer authorized for persons five years of age and older. At this time, booster shots are not authorized for children and infants under age 5.

Vaccination is the best defense against the worst impacts of the deadly COVID-19 virus. Union County residents who are not vaccinated yet are urged to begin their primary series as soon as possible, and then follow up with the new bivalent booster shot as soon as they are eligible.

The primary vaccination series is authorized for all adults, children, and infants beginning at age 6 months.

Union County’s vaccine clinics currently offer all authorized vaccines and boosters as follows:

Warinanco Sports Center, 1 Park Drive at Warinanco Park in Roselle: 

On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the Warinanco clinic provides all vaccines and booster formulations for all age groups.

The hours of operation on Tuesdays are 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

The hours of operation on Thursdays are 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Plainfield High School, 950 Park Avenue in Plainfield (use the Kenyon Avenue entrance):

On Saturdays, the Plainfield High School clinic provides all vaccines and booster formulations.

The hours of operation are 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

To make an appointment for a vaccination at either the Warinanco or Plainfield clinics, create an account or log into an existing account through Union County’s vaccination portal, ucnj.org/covid19. If additional assistance is needed call 908-613-7829.

Walk-ups for booster shots for all eligible age groups are welcome at both the Warinanco Sports Center and Plainfield High School sites, but appointments are encouraged.

Home-bound residents may be eligible for a home vaccination visit. To make an appointment, call the Union County Office of Health Management at 908-613-7829 during regular weekday business hours, or leave a call-back message after hours.

For details about Union County’s mobile COVID-19 vaccination clinics and other resources visit ucnj.org/covid19.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

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Union County to host Maritime Transportation, Logistics and Development Job Fair on October 20 in Elizabeth

Multiple employment and credential opportunities to be offered at event at Union College

marine transportation logistics and development job fair flyer

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the Department of Human Services, Port Authority, Union College and the American Job Center, will host a job fair for Union County residents ages 18 and older on Thursday, October from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.. The job fair will take place at Union College of Union County on the 5th floor of the Kellogg Building, located at 40 W. Jersey Street in Elizabeth. The event is free to attend.

“We encourage residents to attend this job fair, as it is an excellent opportunity for job seekers to meet employers in the transportation, logistics and development workforce.” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams. “On behalf of the Commissioner Board, I would like to thank the Department of Human Services, the Port Authority CPP, the American Job Center and Union College for their collaboration in making this event possible.”

This Port Authority partner agency for the job fair is the Port of New York and New Jersey’s Council on Port Performance. The Council on Port Performance (CPP) provides oversight on the implementation of programs and initiatives that improve efficiency and service reliability at the Port of New York & New Jersey. The CPP brings together a cross section of stakeholders with expertise in all areas of ocean transportation and logistics, including trucking. These volunteers put their expertise and creative ideas together to ensure productive and efficient cargo movement for all port customers.

“We are pleased to be taking part in the Maritime Transportation, Logistics and Distribution Apprenticeship and Job Fair and to be working in collaboration with our partners to help provide long-term career and growth opportunities to the next generation of maritime workers,” said John Nardi, president of the New York Shipping Association and co-chair of the Port of New York and New Jersey’s Council on Port Performance.

The objective of this event is to help maritime transportation, logistics and distribution (TLD) employers to recruit potential candidates for careers in this business sector. According to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL), TLD is the third largest employment sector in the state. The job fair will allow employers to promote training, available job openings and viable career pathways to community members. Independent Owner Operators will also be given the opportunity to connect with Licensed Motor Carriers. 

“The Maritime TLD Job Fair is a great way for job seekers to identify pathways to obtain new credentials while targeting career advancement,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, liaison to the Workforce Development Board. “Attendees will have a chance to discover opportunities for in-demand, critical roles. The Commissioner Board works to continuously provide those seeking employment with a variety of pathways to further their professional curriculums.”

The Maritime TLD Job Fair is free to attend and registration is encouraged. To sign up for this event, residents can visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/port-authority-job-fair-tickets-432533297737.

Along with the Port Authority CPP and Union College of Union County, the Maritime TLD Job Fair is being coordinated by the American Job Center within the Union County Department of Human Services. For more information about future job fairs/hiring events, please call the American Job Center at (908) 558-8000. To contact the Union County Department of Human Services, residents can use the online contact form at ucnj.org/dhs, email the DHS Action Line at DHSaction@ucnj.org, or call 908-527-4847.

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Union County Division on Aging offers new Social 60+ Pilot Program

The Union County Board of County Commissioners in partnership with the Union County Division on Aging, is proud to offer a new pilot program, Social 60+, for qualifying Union County residents, age 60 and over.

“Social 60+ is a new initiative of Union County to bring together the older adult community, not only to receive a balanced meal, but by sharing it together, meeting other residents in the community,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams. “This new program will give people the opportunity to socialize, try new restaurants and get a healthy, affordable meal option.”

Social 60+ was designed to bring the benefits of a healthy meal and socialization into the community for older adults in Union County. As part of the pilot program, The Garden Restaurant, located at 943 Magie Avenue in Union, NJ, has agreed to accept a voucher from the Union County Division on Aging in exchange for meal options designated by the restaurant.

To participate, one must be a Union County resident 60 years and over; agree to attend a nutrition education program offered by the Division on Aging at least once a quarter and provide all necessary information during intake.

“We are excited to launch this new program not only in response to the growing social and nutritional needs of older adults in our community, but to engage with residents who may otherwise be unfamiliar with the many services and programs offered by the Division and the County of Union,” said Natalie Zarrillo, Executive Director of the Union County Division on Aging.

All qualified residents are invited and encouraged to enjoy a meal through this program. The voucher process is done via the phone with the Division on Aging, once the intake is complete and approved, residents will receive their voucher by mail.  Vouchers must be used by 12/31/2022. Vouchers will be limited to one per person, at this time. Expired vouchers will not be honored. Participants may select from a set menu of choices that have been designated to meet the Older Americans Act (OAA) standards of one-third recommended dietary allowances and compliance with the OAA dietary guidelines.

For the Social 60+ application, please call the Union County Division on Aging, at (908) 527-4870.  Please visit www.ucnj.org/aging for a complete list of program and vouchers rules and regulations.

For more information about this or other programs offered, please call the Union County Division on Aging with any questions, toll-free at 1-888-280-8226.

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From Bubbles to Ballet, Enjoy Sensory Friendly Fun in Union County

bubble trouble flyer

The Union County Board of Commissioners invites children with autism and other sensory sensitivities to enjoy two Sensory Friendly Theatre presentations at the Union County Performing Arts Center in Rahway, November 13 and 30.

“Sensory Friendly Theatre brings inclusive, enriching live performances to children with special needs, and we are delighted to help brighten the fall season with two shows in November,” said Commissioner Board Chair Rebecca L. Williams.

On Sunday, November 13, at 1:00 p.m., Sensory Friendly Theatre presents master bubble wrangler Jeff Boyer. Mixing comedy, music, and interactive bubble-magic, Jeff engages and delights audiences of all ages with sensory friendly fun featuring bubble rainbows with people inside, do-it-yourself volcano bubbles, gigantic bubbles that blow their own bubbles, and more.

On Wednesday, November 30 at 6:00 p.m., Sensory Friendly Theatre presents the beloved classic ballet, The Nutcracker, performed by the New Jersey Ballet. This holiday favorite tells the magical story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they battle toy soldiers and larger-than-life mice, and travel through a whirlwind of dancing snowflakes to the Land of Sweets.

The Sensory Friendly Theatre series showcases exciting live performances in a welcoming, judgement-free environment for children with autism and other sensory sensitivities.

Audiences can expect relaxed lighting and sound along with other adjustments and supportive services during the performance. For complete details and to purchase tickets online visit ucpac.org/sensory-friendly-theatre.

 As a reminder, do not purchase tickets through another vendor. Only purchase tickets for Sensory Friendly Theatre through the Union County Performing Arts Center.

To purchase tickets in person, come to the UCPAC Box Office, located at 1601 Irving Street in Rahway. For Box Office hours and other information call (732) 499-8226 or email boxoffice@ucpac.org.

Please note that COVID-19 safety regulations are in effect for all performances at UCPAC. For details visit ucpac.org/covid-19. Ticket holders are advised to check for updates prior to arriving at the theatre.

To see a list of additional recreation activities for persons with disabilities and special needs offered by Union County, and to sign up for activities, visit the secure registration page at ucnj.org/reserve.

To contact the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs visit ucnj.org/special-needs and use the contact form, or call 908-527-4807.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.