Category: Public Info

The Union County Board of County Commissioners would like to announce that the annual Union County Women Mean Business Summit (UCWMB) will be held on June 13, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Galloping Hill Golf Course, located at 3 Golf Drive in Kenilworth.

“The Union County Women Mean Business Summit is designed to bring together women entrepreneurs, professionals, and leaders from various industries to share insights, network, and inspire each other,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “This event will feature a number of panelists and a keynote speaker to discuss leadership, career development, work-life balance, diversity and inclusion, and overcoming challenges faced by women in the business world. We encourage all women in Union County to register and we look forward to seeing you there.”

This powerful forum, is a once-a-year conference with an immersive experience that will feature a series of workshops and discussions for women of all stages in their careers. This year, the UCWMB Summit will feature Keynote Speaker Esther Pak, Corporate Counsel to the New Jersey Devils and Philadelphia 76ers.

Please note, tickets will not be sold at the door. Pre-registration is now open online at ucnj.org/ucwmb. A continental breakfast and lunch is included in the registration fee. Those who register before May 31^st to get a special early bird rate at $50.00 and after that date, general admission will be $55.

The event includes ample time for networking along with two breakout sessions, from which attendees can choose one topic each.

Session One (9:40 a.m. to 10:40 a.m.) – Choice of ONE

“Know it, Share it, Pivot into Profits”

Are you ready to tap into the goldmine of knowledge that lies within you? Introducing the transformative workshop, “Know it, Share it, Pivot into Profits,” where we’ll take you on an exhilarating journey to unlock your hidden potential and turn it into a lucrative venture. We will guide you in organizing your newfound expertise into a brilliant blueprint. Learn how to structure your knowledge in a way that captivates audiences and makes them hungry for more. We’ll show you how to craft a powerful formula that transforms your insights into a valuable resource. We will unveil the secrets of how to share your knowledge with the world and turn it into profit. We’ll equip you with the strategies, tools, and insider tips needed to build your personal brand and reach the right audience. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to know it, share it, and pivot into profits!

“Unlocking the Power of Mentorship“

This interactive session is designed to inspire and equip women to become exceptional mentors and attract meaningful mentorship opportunities.  By providing the necessary tools to help extend their reach, increase their influence and elevate their decision-making and life skills. Designed to help women unlock new perspectives, shape ideas into impactful actions and take charge of navigating their journey to success. Learn from these mentor/mentee’s experiences and discover how you too can unlock the power of mentorship.

Session Two (10:50 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.) – Choice of ONE

“Fight? or FIGHT!? Unleashing Your Caveman Brain

Negotiating can be challenging. Whether you need to do it for yourself, your company or something else in your life, we all are faced with the need to negotiate from time to time. In this session we will discuss strategies for successful negotiation to achieve the best outcomes. Note this is a guided interactive session that is driven by participation

“Improv(e) Your Pitch: Master Persuasive Communication”

Calling all ambitious women leaders! Elevate your pitching skills and make a lasting impact with our workshop, “Improv(e) Your Pitch: Empowering Women in Business to Master Persuasive Communication.”  In today’s competitive business landscape, effective communication and the ability to deliver a compelling pitch are essential for success. Harness the power of improvisation: tap into the principles of improvisation to boost your spontaneity, adaptability, and quick thinking. Develop the ability to respond confidently to unexpected situations and objections during your pitches. Get ready to step into the spotlight with confidence and conviction!

The 2023 Union County Women Mean Business Summit is a program of the Union County Department of Economic Development through the Office on Women. For more information about this event, please visit ucnj.org/ucwmb or call Jennifer Erdos of the Union County Office on Women at 908-527-4216.

In recognition of May as Mental Health Awareness Month, the Union County Board of County Commissioners invites Union County residents to participate in “A New Me in 23 – Advocating for Your Self-Care,” an interactive Zoom session presented by Lynette Sheard on Tuesday, May 23, 6:00 p.m – 7:00 p.m.

The event is free of charge but pre-registration is required online for the Zoom link, at ucnj.org/MentalHealthAwareness.

“Mental Health is a topic that should be focused on all year and as part of my “Stepping Up to Mental Health” initiative within my 2023 Chairman’s “Building a Stronger Union County” theme, we decided to put forward this insightful event that connects our residents with Ms. Sheard’s expertise and dedication to mental health advocacy,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “We encourage all Union County residents to help overcome the stigma that has traditionally surrounded mental health, and learn new strategies that lead to a positive, supportive environment for individuals and for the whole community.”

 “A New Me in 23 – Advocating for Your Self-Care” will explore self-advocacy and skill development that boosts self-confidence, and provide a space for exchanging ideas for healthy coping strategies. Participants will be able to: 

• Define Self Advocacy
• Navigate effective communication that promotes your pursuit of optimal wellness 
• Strategize ways to better articulate individual needs to maintain emotional wellness

Lynette Sheard is a Community Education Coordinator at the Mental Health Association in New Jersey, Director of the award-winning NJ Mental Health Players, and a sought-after award-winning facilitator and staff development trainer who utilizes multi-module creative techniques to educate the community at large. 

Ms. Sheard’s unique, dynamic approach to mental health education and advocacy combines her work in the field of mental health with her skills as a professional performer, producer and director.

She has worked with the Mental Health Association for over 18 years as a senior employment specialist, job coach, and a staff development trainer. She was awarded Professional of the year by the Association of Persons with Supported Employment, for her work with individuals with disabilities and mental illness. She is certified by Mental Health America as a trainer of Mental Health First Aid for adults, older adults, and youth. In addition, she is certified in, Suicide Prevention, Psychiatric Advance Directives, and trauma informed care.

“A New Me in 23 – Advocating for Your Self-Care” is presented through the Union County Office on Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse in the Division of Individual and Family Support Services, under the Department of Human Services.

For more information on the Office on Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse, visit online at https://ucnj.org/dhs/obhsa/

For information on all Department of Human Services activities, visit online at ucnj.org/dhs or call the Action Line, 908-677-5405.

For information and updates on Union County COVID-19 services visit ucnj.org/covid19.

#  #

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.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites all residents and visitors to join in the celebration of Pride Month 2023, with our annual Pride Month Flag Raising and Pride in the Park Celebration.

“I am incredibly proud to be a part of a County that is inclusive to all and these events, in honor of Pride Month, serve as a powerful testament to the diversity, inclusivity, and unity that define our county,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “It is a moment for us to stand shoulder to shoulder, embracing and honoring the LGBTQ+ community and their invaluable contributions to our society. Together, let us continue to create a community where everyone can live authentically, free from discrimination or prejudice. Happy Pride!”

Sponsored by the Union County Board of County Commissioners and organized through the Office of LGBTQ Affairs, this month will kick off with the annual Union County Pride Flag Raising on Thursday, June 1, 2023 at 12:30 p.m. at the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth.

Later in the month, Union County Pride in the Park, will take place on Saturday, June 24, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Tëmike Park in Cedar Brook Park in Plainfield. This free, family-fun event will feature kick-ball tournaments, arts and crafts, games, a DJ & decades dance parties, food trucks, local non-profit organizations and informational tables, followed by an outdoor movie presentation of “Strange World” at dusk, approximately 8:30 p.m.

Registration is required for teams looking to participate in the kickball tournaments at www.ucnj.org/lgbtq.

Union County’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs was established in 2018 under the Department of Economic Development. It is the first county government office of its kind in the State of New Jersey. It offers 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 Pride Month schedule updates and more information about the Office of LGBTQ Affairs, visit ucnj.org/LGBTQ.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the award of grants totaling $1,500,000.00 to the County’s twenty-one municipalities from the 2023 Union County Infrastructure and Municipal Aid grant program.

“The Commissioner Board is proud to carry out the Infrastructure and Municipal Aid program, which continues to contribute to the strength of social and economic life throughout our community,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Many of the 2023 grants reflect a continuing interest in prioritizing improvements to pedestrian access and road safety. These local projects have a positive impact across Union County, for residents and visitors as well as businesses, civic organizations and academic institutions.”

“The Infrastructure and Municipal Aid program has been a lifeline for our local governments, enabling them to move forward with vital civic infrastructure projects,” said Commissioner Vice Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, who chairs the Board’s Fiscal Committee. “These projects will benefit local communities and the County as a whole for many years to come.”

The grant program launched in 2015. The program distributes Union County’s proceeds from the sale of Runnells Specialized Hospital to local governments, for assistance with local infrastructure projects and other governmental, social, and transportation matters.

The Infrastructure and Municipal Aid grant program is a matching grant program. The following grants have been made to municipalities for projects undertaken in the 2023 calendar year:

• Berkeley Heights, Miscellaneous Drainage & Roadway Improvements: $60,000.00
• Clark, Pedestrian Initiated Flashing Crosswalks/Library Ramp:  $42,500.00
• Cranford, Inflow & Infiltration-Phase II:  $90,000.00
• Elizabeth, Elizabeth River Trail Phase 4: $150,000.00
• Fanwood, Sewer Video & Lining Program: $40,000.00
• Garwood, Miscellaneous Sanitary Sewer Improvements; Fire House & Municipal Building Security Upgrades:  $38,000.00
• Hillside, Municipal Building Door Replacement, $18,280.00
• Kenilworth, Resurfacing of Municipal Parking Lot/Replacement of Municipal Building Sidewalks:  $50,000.00
• Linden, Range Road Culvert Replacement: $90,000.00
• Mountainside, Paving Improvements on Outlook Drive East:  $40,000.00
• New Providence, Municipal Roadway Paving Project: $50,000.00
• Plainfield, West End & Grant Avenues Roadway Improvement: $140,000.00
• Rahway, Broad St., Maurice Ave. & Ludlow St. Improvements: $100,000.00
• Roselle, Road Resurfacing Project: $70,000.00
• Roselle Park, Capital Road Program-Various Streets: $63,000.00
• Scotch Plains, Roadwork Assistance Program: $100,000.00
• Springfield, Paving Improvements on Various Streets: $63,000.00
• Summit, Hobart Avenue Sidewalk Project: $75,000.00
• Union, Road Program Phase II, Group A, Suburban Road:  $100,000.00
• Westfield, Improvement to Summit Avenue: $100,000.00
• Winfield, Various Improvements:  $20,220.00
• Total $1,500,000.00

To see video presentations about many of these projects, visit Union County on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/countyofunion/videos/740042114473791.

#  #

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.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to come to the free “Native Plant Swap and Shop” event on Thursday evening, June 8, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and swap up to three invasive plants for a matching number of colorful, beneficial native plants, free of charge. Additional native plants will also be available for sale at the event. The event takes place in the Watchung Reservation at the Scout Camping Area, located near the Trailside Nature and Science Center at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside.

“The Swap and Shop event is a fun way to learn about the value of native plants in our local ecosystem. Everyone with a yard or garden can help preserve and protect butterflies and other valuable pollinators, by taking out invasive species and replacing them with native plants,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados.

Residents who plan to participate in the swap must pre-register online at ucnj.org/plant-swap. The swap is limited to 100 registrants.

All other attendees are welcome on a walk-in basis. There is no charge for admission. Attendees can arrive any time after 5:30 and stay as long as they like.

Expert naturalists will be on site to provide guidance and information on gardening with native plants.

Examples of invasive plants to bring for the swap are: Japanese barberry, pachysandra, butterfly bush, garlic mustard, porcelain berry, periwinkle, English ivy and Chinese silvergrass. For accurate identification the invasive plants should be dug up recently and brought to the event in a sealed bag or box, with their entire roots included.

The native plants offered for swap include Cardinal Flower, Dense Blazing Star, Blue False Indigo, Joe Pye Weed, Foxglove Beardtongue, Swamp Milkweed and Orange Coneflower. 

The Toadshade Wildflower Farm will also be on site with native plants for sale during the event. Participants who plan to make a purchase are advised to pre-order for pickup through the Toadshade website, toadshade.com.

For information about other nature education programs offered by Union County, visit the Trailside Nature and Science Center online at ucnj.org/trailside. More information about activities in Union County Parks is available at ucnj.org/parks.

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

#  #

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.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi advises voters that they can view their sample ballots for the June 6 Primary Election online at the County Clerk’s elections website, unioncountyvotes.com. In addition, voters will receive a printed copy of their sample ballot in the mail.

“We encourage voters to review their sample ballots ahead of time, in order to familiarize themselves with the information and to check for any changes in their polling place. The online posting is a convenience for many voters, and we also send printed copies to ensure that every voter has an opportunity to review their choices before voting.” said Ms. Rajoppi.

Sample ballots will be mailed out approximately two weeks before Election Day.

As a reminder, four municipalities have been reassigned to a new legislative district, resulting from redistricting in New Jersey after the 2020 Census. Cranford and Roselle Park are now District 22, Hillside is District 28, and Kenilworth is District 20.

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.

#  #

Connect with Union County on social media.

The Union County Board of Commissioners reminds residents that they can use Union County’s free, countywide drop-off locations to safely dispose of toxic or potentially hazardous products commonly found in the home and yard. The next free Household Hazardous Waste drop-off event will take place on Saturday, June 3, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Kean University, 1000 Morris Avenue in Union Township.

The event will be held at the Kean Hall parking lot, rain or shine. Any Union County resident may participate, regardless of their home town. Proof of residency is required.

“These drop-off events provide every Union County household with a way to contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment, by safely disposing of products that could be harmful if disposed improperly. The next time you go through your cabinets, basement or garage, keep an eye out for unwanted items that you could bring to our next Household Hazardous Waste event,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados.

Many different kinds of toxic and potentially harmful household products are accepted at Union County’s Household Hazardous Waste events.

The list includes pool chemicals, corrosives, pesticides, herbicides, solvents, thinners, antifreeze, aerosol cans, fire extinguishers, motor oil, oil filters, gasoline, batteries, thermostats, fluorescent bulbs (unbroken), mercury switches, mercury thermostats and thermometers, propane tanks and automobile tires (limit of eight tires per household, with rims off), and more.

Only materials in original or labeled containers will be accepted. No containers larger than five gallons will be accepted.

For a complete list of accepted items, visit ucnj.org/recycling/household-special-waste.

A special note on paint disposal: Oil-based paints and varnishes are accepted at the Household Hazardous Waste events. However, latex paint (water-based) wall paint is NOT accepted.

Unwanted latex paint can be shared, donated or used up if possible. Residents who need to dispose of unwanted latex paint can remove the lid, let it dry completely in the can, and discard the can in regular household garbage with the lid off. A product called waste paint hardener can speed up the drying process.

Union County’s Household Hazardous Waste events are drop-off only and contact-free. Participants should load their items in their trunk or other area easily accessed by staff.

Participants must remain in their vehicles while staff at the site unloads their items.

For more details about all Union County recycling programs visit ucnj.org/recycle.

Experts from the Union County Bureau of Recycling and Planning are available to present recycling information to schools, community groups and other organizations. To schedule a program contact Heather Miara, heather.miara@ucnj.org.

The free Recycle Coach mobile app provides a handy way to find out what items are included in curbside recycling programs and drop-off sites in Union County. The app provides up to date information on both countywide and local recycling programs.

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

#  #

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.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites seniors and their caregivers to come to Union County’s ASK community events in May, and meet in person with professional staff for expert guidance on senior programs and resources. Help with filling out forms is also provided.

Bilingual staff will be present at all of these events to offer assistance in Spanish.

“The ASK program brings our knowledgeable staff to local libraries and community centers, to make it easier for seniors, family members and care givers to find out about resources and programs in Union County. If you have any questions about services for seniors, please come to an ASK event near you,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados.

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.

The ASK program provides Union County residents with a friendly, convenient way to find out about helpful programs and services for seniors and caregivers. The program brings professional staff from the Division on Aging to local public libraries and other community centers.

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 following three ASK events scheduled for May 17, 19 and 22:

Wednesday, May 17th

Elizabeth Public Library – Main

11 S. Broad Street

Elizabeth, 07202

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Friday, May 19

Roselle Library

129 Chestnut St.

Roselle, 07203

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Monday, May 22nd

Plainfield Public Library

800 Park Avenue

Plainfield, 07060

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Contact the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection for information on upcoming ASK events and any other services for seniors in Union County. Call 1-888-280-8226 toll free or visit online at ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

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. The Division is one of 622 Area Agencies on Aging nationwide established under the federal Older Americans Act.   

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.

#  #

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.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners reminds residents that the next free scrap metal recycling drop-off event of 2023 will take place on Saturday, May 20, in Rahway River Park from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., as part of Union County’s regular series of free drop-off events for a wide variety of metal goods, from household appliances to gutters and sheds.

Residents are advised that, for the May 20 event only, scrap metal drop-off in Rahway River Park will take place at the swimming pool parking lot. Signs will be set up directing drivers to the scrap metal location.

“We encourage everyone to use our scrap metal drop-off locations to help save valuable resources and cut down on waste,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados.

Drivers with scrap metal to drop off should use the St. Georges Avenue to enter the park.

Drivers who arrive at 11:00 a.m. or later are advised that traffic in and around the park may be heavier than usual, due to the “Touch a Truck” event taking place in Rahway River Park from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Union County’s free scrap metal recycling program is conducted twice a month from April to November.

The next two scrap metal recycling events will take place on Thursday, June 1 in Cranford at the emergency services complex, 151 Kenilworth Boulevard, and on Saturday, June 17 in Rahway River Park. For the June 17 event, scrap metal recycling will take place at its regular location in the service yard at the park.

For more details about the scrap metal program and all Union County recycling programs, visit the Union County Bureau of Recycling and Planning online at ucnj.org/recycle.

#  #

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.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites all photography enthusiasts, from beginner to experienced, to join the “Nature Photography for Everyone” workshop on Saturday May 13, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m., at Union County’s Trailside Nature and Science Center, located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside. Ample free parking is available on site.

“Photography is a powerful and creative way to communicate. We hope the nature photography workshop will inspire Union County residents and visitors to spend time in our public parks, learn about the natural ecosystems around us, and share their photographs with family, friends, and the community at large,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados.

Nature Photography for Everyone is part of the adult program series at Trailside, for ages 18 and up. There is a fee of $10 per person for Union County residents and $12 per person for non-county residents. Pre-registration is required through Union County’s secure registration page, secure.rec1.com/NJ/union-county-nj/catalog.

The workshop will be conducted by Union County photographer Jacki Dickert, who will share her spots for finding interesting wildlife and lovely scenery, best practices for photographing animals and landscapes and tips for creating compelling compositions.

Ms. Dickert’s photographs have been showcased in galleries throughout New Jersey and published in magazines, online blogs and on book covers. She was recently awarded first place in in the Ansel Adams photography contest at the Fenimore Art Museum in New York and had her work selected for display at the new Terminal A at Newark Liberty International Airport. She is an active member of the Camera Naturalist Photo Club and speaker and judge for the NJ Federation of Camera Clubs and other arts organizations, including the annual Union County Teen Arts Festival.

An exhibit of Ms. Dickert’s photographs, titled “Scenic and Wild Union County,” is currently on display at Trailside through June 1. Following the photography workshop on May 13, Ms. Dickert will be available for a meet and greet reception of her work and to answer any questions.

Trailside is open daily for walk-in visitors to view the exhibits free of charge, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily except for Mondays and holidays.

For more information about all programs at Trailside, visit ucnj.org/trailside or call 908-789-3670. An overview of all programs and activities in the Union County park system is available at ucnj.org/parks.

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

#  #

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.