Category: Public Info

Center will offer the following vaccinations: free Tetanus, Hepatitis A and B, Pneumovax, Meningitis, Shingles, and HPV shots beginning December 8^th

The Union County Freeholders today announced the expansion of the County’s free Vaccination Center to include eligible adults over the age of 18, beginning Monday December 8^th at the clinic’s location on 40 Parker Road in Elizabeth.

The center, which had been open only for free shots for eligible children (and will continue to be open for that purpose), will now offer only the following free vaccines: Tetanus, Hepatitis A and B, Pneumovax, Meningitis, Shingles, and HPV shots for eligible adults.

“The Immunization Center was originally established by the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders in 1996 to provide immunizations to children without medical insurance, but now with a health crisis upon us, we need to expand this service to all those in need,” said Freeholder Chair Alexander Mirabella. “Our residents deserve the opportunity to have protection against illness regardless of their economic standing, and we are pleased to announce this new program.”

The vaccines will be available for those who do not have insurance; or have Medicaid A, or any insurance that does not cover routine vaccinations. To find out if you qualify, and to make an appointment, call 908-965-3627 or 3868. The clinic is open between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from Monday to Friday.

Produce will be distributed on a first come-first served basis.

                                                     

Union County, NJ – The emergency drive-up and walk-up food distribution for Union County residents to aid those affected by COVID-19 originally scheduled for Saturday, December 5^th, has been rescheduled due to weather concerns. The distribution will now be held Sunday, December 6, beginning at 9:00 a.m. at Warinanco Park, located in Roselle. The distribution will take place at the Skating Rink located within the park and residents should use the Park Avenue entrance.

The food distribution is open to all Union County residents. Food will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and no registration is required. The event will take place rain or shine.

The food distribution is being coordinated by the County of Union with support from Village Super Market, Gargiulo Produce and CMC Foods.

“Food distributions have become a lifeline for our residents during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “This combination drive-up and walk-up distribution allows those in Union County to pick up food even if they don’t have access to a car.”

“During this time as residents face unprecedented levels of unemployment, housing issues and food insecurity, we continue to work to provide everyone with support” said Freeholder Sergio Granados who also serves as Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Board. “We thank the Village Super Market for their partnership in this effort.”

Residents wishing to pick up food can arrive in a vehicle or walk-up to the distribution site.

Upon arrival, proof of New Jersey residency and indicate how many people reside in their household will have to be provided. Recipients will receive an emergency box of non-perishable items and fresh produce, with enough to sustain a family for several days. Please note that only one box of food will be provided per vehicle or walk-up.

This event will run in compliance with state COVID-19 orders, regarding social distancing and other protocols. All drive-up recipients must remain in their cars with windows rolled up at all times, otherwise masks are required. Food boxes will be placed in the trunk or truck bed of the vehicle by volunteers.

Walk-up recipients must wear masks at all times and maintain social distance.  Walk-up recipients should bring a cart or be able to carry several food bags at the walk-up area.

For questions and more information, residents may call the UCDHS Director’s Action Line at 888-845-3434 or 908-558-2288.

To learn more about the Village Super Market, visit: https://www.myvillagesupermarket.com/.

To learn more about Gargiulo Produce, visit: http://www.gargiuloproduce.com.   

To learn more about CMC Food, visit: https://www.thefarmershen.com/cmc-food/.

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including guidance for the free Drive-Through Test Center at Kean University, visit ucnj.org/coronavirus-update.

For general information about COVID-19 and phone contacts for 24/7 assistance with questions, visit the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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PLEASE NOTE THIS EVENT HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED FOR DECEMBER 6

 

Produce will be distributed on a first come-first served basis

               

Union County, NJ – The Union County Freeholder Board announced the County will hold an emergency drive-up and walk-up food distribution for Union County residents to aid those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic on Saturday, December 5^th, beginning at 9:00 a.m. at Warinanco Park, located in Roselle. The distribution will take place at the Skating Rink located within the park and residents should use the Park Avenue entrance.

The food distribution is open to all Union County residents. Food will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and no registration is required. The event will take place rain or shine.

The food distribution is being coordinated by the County of Union with support from Village Super Market and Gargiulo Produce.

“Food distributions have become a lifeline for our residents during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “This combination drive-up and walk-up distribution allows those in Union County to pick up food even if they don’t have access to a car.”

“During this time as residents face unprecedented levels of unemployment, housing issues and food insecurity, we continue to work to provide everyone with support” said Freeholder Sergio Granados who also serves as Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Board. “We thank the Village Super Market for their partnership in this effort.”

Residents wishing to pick up food can arrive in a vehicle or walk-up to the distribution site.

Upon arrival, proof of New Jersey residency and indicate how many people reside in their household will have to be provided. Recipients will receive an emergency box of non-perishable items and fresh produce, with enough to sustain a family for several days. Please note that only one box of food will be provided per vehicle or walk-up.

This event will run in compliance with state COVID-19 orders, regarding social distancing and other protocols. All drive-up recipients must remain in their cars with windows rolled up at all times, otherwise masks are required. Food boxes will be placed in the trunk or truck bed of the vehicle by volunteers.

Walk-up recipients must wear masks at all times and maintain social distance.  Walk-up recipients should bring a cart or be able to carry several food bags at the walk-up area.

For questions and more information, residents may call the UCDHS Director’s Action Line at 888-845-3434 or 908-558-2288.

To learn more about the Village Super Market, visit: https://www.myvillagesupermarket.com/.

To learn more about Gargiulo Produce, visit: http://www.gargiuloproduce.com.   

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including guidance for the free Drive-Through Test Center at Kean University, visit ucnj.org/coronavirus-update.

For general information about COVID-19 and phone contacts for 24/7 assistance with questions, visit the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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Mobile Unit to Administer Free Testing to Residents in Multiple Municipalities.

 

UNION COUNTY – The Union County Mobile Test Unit has scheduled more upcoming visits to local communities to provide free COVID-19 tests for residents during the month of December. No car is required. All sites are available on a walk-up basis.

“Testing has been a cornerstone in our fight against COVID-19 and we encourage all Union County residents to use this free, convenient service,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “Even if you have no symptoms of illness, it is important to get tested if you feel that you may have been exposed to the virus by someone else, or are at risk of exposing others.”

Any resident can use any of the walk-up sites, regardless of their place of residence. Masks and social distance are required at all times.

The following municipalities are scheduled for December (note: the Mobile Test Unit will administer the saliva test at all of these locations):

• Elizabeth – December 1, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Exrleben Recreation Center, 513 Richmond Street
• New Providence, December 3, 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. New Providence Gym, 1378 Springfield Avenue

For more details and to view the most updated schedule online visit ucnj.org/walkup, or call 908-214-7107 for assistance.

The Mobile Test Unit is available on request to visit local communities to provide tests for the general public. The Mobile Test Unit also visits locations such as senior residence buildings to provide on-site testing for vulnerable populations and other groups.

Municipal governments, non-profit organizations and community groups can request a visit by calling the Union County Office of Emergency Management at 908-654-9881.

Residents are urged to continue observing precautions against spreading the virus, including wearing a face mask, maintaining social distance, and washing hands frequently.

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including guidance for using the Drive-Through Test Center at Kean University and a list of locations for walk-up tests, visit ucnj.org/coronavirus-update.

For general information about COVID-19 and phone contacts for 24/7 assistance with questions, visit 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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New Schedule begins week of November 30th—Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Due to increased demand for COVID-19 testing, the Union County Drive-in Test Center located at Kean University in Union Township will expand operations to four days a week. Starting week of November 30th, the testing site will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Thursdays from 9 a.m, to 2:30 p.m.

“We are working hard to provide increased access to free COVID-19 testing to our residents,” said Freeholder Chairman, Alexander Mirabella. “We encourage residents to get tested if they have any concerns about exposure to COVID-19.”

The Union County Drive-in COVID-19 Test Center offers free three-panel swab tests that produces results for the COVID-19 virus, Influenza A, and Influenza B, all on the same swab. Kean is one of only two universities in New Jersey to serve as a location for free countywide COVID-19 testing, and it is the first in New Jersey to offer the three-panel swab test.

No doctor referral is required, but the site is accessible by car only. To make an appointment online visit Union County’s new COVID-19 website, ucnj.org/covid19, or call 908-518-4307. The Test Center is available to all Union County residents, and to first responders and front line health personnel who work in New Jersey. No symptoms or doctor referral are required to use the Test Center.

Along with the Test Center at Kean, residents can receive free COVID-19 saliva tests at one of the Mobile Unit Walk-Up events scheduled on multiple dates at various locations around Union County. No appointment is necessary for the Mobile Walk-Up events and testing is first come-first served. For an updated list of locations, residents should visit ucnj.org/walkup

For more information and updates on all Union County services and resources during the COVID-19 outbreak, including guidance for using the Drive-Through Test Center at Kean University and the Mobile Test Unit walk-up sites, visit the new Union County COVID-19 website at ucnj.org/covid19.

For general information about COVID-19 and phone contacts for 24/7 assistance with questions, visit the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

For immediate release: November 25, 2020

Please note: this event has been rescheduled from December 5 to Sunday, December 6 due to expected inclement weather. Tickets for December 5 will be honored on December 6. For information on reserving a spot on the waiting list please read the updated press here.

Pop Music Quartet, The Company Men Present “The Holiday Show” at drive-in concert in Scotch Plains (update: rescheduled to December 6)

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce that nationally acclaimed tribute band, The Company Men, will be presenting what they are calling “The Holiday Show” in a drive-in concert at Union County Vocational-Technical School, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains.

The free, drive-in concert  starting at 6 PM. Tickets can be reserved now at www.ucnj.org/reserve, and are first-come, first-served.

“I cannot think of a better treat this holiday season than this concert by The Company Men,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “This is a must-see event that is certain to delight residents of all ages.”

The Company Men, who describe themselves on their website as a “Modern Day Rat Pack,” are a nationally acclaimed vocal, pop music quartet who performs a mix of current Top 40 hits with classics of the last 60 years, with a special twist. They have appeared onstage with Mariah Carey, Billy Idol, Chaka Khan and others.

The band’s “Holiday Show” will feature classic songs such as Happy Holidays, Jingle Bell Rock, White Christmas, I’ll Be Home for Christmas, Winter Wonderland, and much more. Their performances are family-friendly and have been praised as huge hit with multi-generational crowds, according to their website.

This event will run in compliance with state COVID-19 orders, regarding social distancing and other protocols. Attendees must bring their own snacks and drinks. There will not be any food or drink available for purchase.

To help promote social distancing, no walk-ups, bikes or chairs are permitted. Vehicles will be arranged at least 6 feet apart with adequate social distancing. Port-o-johns and wash stations will be available. Masks will be required when using the port-o-johns. Attendees must stay in their vehicles (unless they need to use the port-o-johns). Those who are attending can bring their own food, and non-alcoholic drink. Alcohol is prohibited.

Further details will be available to residents upon reserving tickets. 

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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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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 25, 2020

Contact: Sebastian D’Elia, 908-527-4419

Tina Casey, 908-527-4346

 

 

Free Drive-Up Movie, “The Grinch,” in Scotch Plains on December 11

 

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce the latest in their series of free Drive-up movies, “The Grinch,” at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, December 11th, at the Union County Vocational-Technical Schools campus, 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains.

 

Pre-registration is required for this event and it is open to Union County residents only.

 

“The Freeholder Board is pleased to offer this opportunity for our residents to enjoy a ‘night out at the movies’ with their families while staying safe during the COVID-19 outbreak,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella.

 

This event will run in compliance with state COVID-19 orders, regarding social distancing and other protocols. Attendees must bring their own snacks and drinks. There will not be any food or drink available for purchase.

 

All drive-up movies are open to Union County residents only and require pre-registration. One registration is required per car. A registration link will be available at https://ucnj.org/reserve  beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, December 4. Due to space limitations, reservations will be available on a first come, first served basis.

 

To observe social distancing during drive-up movies, no walk-ups, bikes or chairs are permitted. Vehicles will be arranged at least 6 feet apart with adequate social distancing. Port-o-johns will be available. Masks will be required when using the port-o-johns. Attendees must stay in their vehicles (unless they need to use the port-o-johns).

 

Further details will be available to residents upon registration.

 

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including guidance for the free Drive-Through Test Center at Kean University, visit ucnj.org/coronavirus-update.

 

For general information about COVID-19 and phone contacts for 24/7 assistance with questions, visit the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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 Connect with Union County on social media.

 

 

Interested in exploring career and technical education?

The Freeholders would like you to know that Union County Vocational-Technical Schools provides all Union County 8th Grade students with the opportunity to apply to five full-time academy high schools. These award winning schools offer high-end academic coursework in combination with a unique career specialization.

To learn more, 8th grade students and parents are encouraged to register for an Information Session.

Attendance at an Information Session is a required part of the application process to these prestigious schools.

To learn more and register – visit the UCVTS Admissions website at ucvts.tec.nj.us/Page/13

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is proud to sponsor No Day But Today, a musical theatre concert honoring the mission of World AIDS Day. The live stream virtual performance, produced by the Union County Performing Arts Center to support the work of Hyacinth AIDS Foundation, is scheduled for Saturday, December 19 at 7:00 PM.

Virtual tickets are $20 per streaming device, available online at ucpac.org/NoDayButToday.

“The Freeholder Board is proud to partner with UCPAC and local artists to speak out against HIV stigma, and call for action toward ending the HIV epidemic,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “The No Day But Today virtual performance reveals truths about HIV/AIDS, sexuality, love for others, and acceptance, that enrich our understanding and foster a more inclusive community.”

The No Day But Today live stream performance is produced by the Union County Performing Arts Center and directed by Brian Remo, Executive Director of the UCPAC. It features an impressive list of 14 local artists who share the passion and urgency for raising awareness of the HIV/AIDS pandemic including: Nikki Ashe, Nicole Bosc, Daisha Davis, Lyle Dungee, Julie Galorenzo, Maleesa Lamatina, Shane Long, Mike Mags, Taye McQueen, Jared Milian, Joe Piserchio, Lawrence E. Street, Kyrus Keenan Westcott, and Howard Whitmore.

“Through this live event, we hope that the passion and commitment of the Union County arts community helps to raise awareness of the continued need to focus resources and attention on ending the AIDS epidemic, while honoring the memory of those who have died,” said Freeholder Rebecca Williams, who is the liaison to the Freeholder Board’s LGBTQ Ad Hoc Committee.

“The Union County Performing Arts Center is honored and excited to be involved in this wonderful presentation to support an organization with such a strong effect on our community as Hyacinth. Aside from the awareness and support that this event will create everyone should tune in for what looks to be an amazing show,” said UCPAC Executive Director Brian Remo.

World AIDS Day is formally recognized on December 1. When first established in 1988, it was the first-ever global health day. World AIDS Day is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, show their support for people with HIV, and remember those who have died from an HIV-related illness.

“Our mission at Hyacinth is to help people live with HIV, stop the spread of the epidemic, and serve as a critical voice in the public debate surrounding AIDS in New Jersey,” said Kathy O’Brien, Hyacinth Executive Director. “We at Hyacinth are honored to work with the Freeholder Board and the UCPAC to use the art of musical theatre to bring attention to the facts about the HIV/AIDS epidemic in New Jersey.”

“Our mission at Hyacinth is to help people live with HIV, stop the spread of the epidemic, and serve as a critical voice in the public debate surrounding AIDS in New Jersey,” said Kathy O’Brien, Hyacinth Executive Director. “We at Hyacinth are honored to work with the Freeholder Board and the UCPAC to use the art of musical theatre to bring attention to the facts about the HIV/AIDS epidemic in New Jersey.”

Hyacinth is New Jersey’s largest and first established HIV service organization. Originally founded to help individuals diagnosed with AIDS to die with dignity and not alone, Hyacinth now has seven offices throughout the state, inclusive of an office in Plainfield focused on education, prevention, and providing resources for people to LIVE with HIV. Hyacinth has led New Jersey’s response to the epidemic and has been an integral community partner in the development and implementation of public health policies and services.

No Day But Today is organized in collaboration with the Union County Office of LGBTQ Affairs, under the Department of Economic Development. The Office of LGBTQ Affairs, was established by the Freeholder Board in 2018 and is the first and only county government office of its kind in the State of New Jersey.

The Office of LGBTQ Affairs provides a platform for leadership and collaboration to support equality, and serves as a catalyst for advocacy, awareness and action on current and emerging issues that impact the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals.

For more information about the Office of LGBTQ Affairs, contact Danni Newbury at 908-527-4742 or dnewbury@ucnj.org or visit ucnj.org/LGBTQ.

For more information and updates on all Union County services and resources during the COVID-19 outbreak, including guidance for using the Drive-Through Test Center at Kean University and the Mobile Test Unit walk-up sites, visit the new Union County COVID-19 website at ucnj.org/covid19. For general information about COVID-19 and phone contacts for 24/7 assistance with questions, visit 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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New field includes top-notch Olympic running track, soccer and lacrosse field, field house with lockers and concession, bleachers, press box and track and field amenities

CLARK, NJ—The Union County Freeholders today joined with members of the Union County Improvement Authority, Union County College, Clark residents and officials today in cutting the ribbon at the new Oak Ridge Park Athletic Field.

“This magnificent facility now takes its place as one of the top-notch recreational fields in the state,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “Union County is highly regarded for its award-winning parks system, and the Oak Ridge Park Athletic Field is a great new attraction for our residents and student-athletes to enjoy.”

Union County Improvement Authority Project Manager Bibi Taylor stated: “The Authority is pleased to complete another high-quality project on behalf of the Freeholder Board for Union County residents.  It is our fervent hope that the Oak Ridge Athletic Field will provide decades of enjoyment and usage for our residents at every stage of life.”

Union County College teams and athletes will use the facility for soccer and lacrosse games, and track and field meets and practices. The facility is also open through the County Parks Department to the public and schools and organizations for the same usage.

 “The College’s athletic teams have struggled without a home field for many years. Frankly, it’s a social justice issue when poorer community college students don’t have the decent and safe facilities that wealthier college students take for granted,’’ said Union County College President Dr. Margaret McMenamin.  “So we are pleased to partner with the County on this endeavor. Our soccer, lacrosse, and track athletes need to compete on a modern, safe, state of the art field. This includes our nationally recognized women’s soccer team that finished the 2018 season ranked third in the nation at the National Junior College Athletic Association tournament. We thank the County for helping us to meet this need for our outstanding and grateful scholar-athletes.”

The field, which was a project of the Union County Improvement Authority, is uniquely built in a “sunken bowl” atop a perch that offers attendees in the bleachers a vista of the park and the Watchung mountains.

Among the field’s features is an Olympic-specification, eight-lane track, which is considered to the best in County and can be used for Division I athletic competition. The field, which has lighting for night competition, is also equipped for hammer throw, discus, high jump and pole vault competitions, and contains a full-size soccer/lacrosse field. The bleachers can accommodate up to 800 fans and includes a press box.

The stone-based, cedar-sided, 3,000 square-foot field house contains two sets of locker rooms for team play, which includes showers and bathrooms. The field house also includes a concession area for the public and public restrooms.

The 12-acre site also contains 120 parking spaces, and features an underground storm water detention area.

Pinnacle Consulting and Construction Services of Newark, NJ provided construction management. Design consultants included Neglia Engineering of Mountainside for the athletic field and Netta Architects of Mountainside, NJ for the fieldhouse. The general contractor for the project was Grade Construction of Paterson, NJ. 

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