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Union County Prosecutor’s Office and Kean University to host Multi-agency Law Enforcement Recruitment Fair: Open to the Public

law enforcement recruitment fair flyer

More than 50 federal, state, county, and municipal law enforcement agencies will come together to participate in a joint recruitment event on Wednesday, March 8, 2023 from 10:00am to 4:00pm at Kean University’s STEM Building, located at 1075 Morris Avenue in Union, New Jersey.  

In early 2022, the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, partnering with Kean University, hosted a similar law enforcement recruitment event that hosted over 40 agencies, and saw over 1,000 participants, and resulted in hundreds of hires at various agencies around the state. The full extent of the recruitment event’s success is unmeasurable¸ as agency hires are still being seen. This year’s event is slated to host over 50 participating law enforcement agencies looking to recruit the next generation of officers. 

“The Union County Prosecutor’s Office is pleased to once again partner with Kean University for the Law Enforcement Recruitment Fair,” Union County Prosecutor William Daniel stated. “Agencies around the state are still seeing results in their hiring trends from last year’s event. We look forward to being able to continue providing the public with opportunities to learn about and apply for positions in this line of work. As we look to diversify the law enforcement community, we welcome all those who are interested in learning more about this rewarding, challenging, and purpose-filled career path.”

“The soliciting of new officers at this recruitment fair will be vital in ensuring that the law enforcement culture continues to evolve to fit societal expectations,” Union County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Harvey Barnwell said. “Diversifying the rank and file of the various agencies allows for more hires of new officers who can provide cultural pedagogy to deliver efficacy and respect to each community being served. The upcoming law enforcement recruitment fair affords a rich opportunity to bring this notion to fruition, and we hope to have members of all communities attend to learn more about how they can begin their path in law enforcement.”

Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet is proud to be able to partner with the Union County Prosecutor’s Office on this important event. “It is an honor to host this law enforcement recruitment event at Kean in partnership with the Union County Prosecutor’s Office,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. “Kean’s many criminal justice graduates are proudly serving at all levels of law enforcement throughout the state and nation, and we are pleased to give our students and the community the opportunity to learn more about public service careers in law enforcement.”

“A career in law enforcement is a great path to take where our residents can make a difference in the lives of their fellow community members, while receiving good pay, benefits and improving the quality of life at the same time,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Last year was such a success and the demand is still high for officers. This event is the perfect way to visit all of the different agencies involved and see where you fit the most. I encourage all residents who are looking towards this route to attend and see what there is to offer.”

New Jersey Senate President Nicholas Scutari echoed the importance of this recruitment event. “As new policing efforts continue to develop throughout New Jersey, we are investing in the next generation of officers. This year’s recruitment fair will host more than fifty law enforcement agencies and allow everyone who is interested in this career path the opportunity to learn more.”

New Jersey Senator Joseph Cryan showed his support for all those interested in a career in law enforcement. “As a former Union County Sheriff, I know the professionalism that exists among our local law enforcement officials. Any young man or woman seeking a rewarding career in public service would be well served to explore the opportunities at the Union County Prosecutors Office Recruitment Fair.”

“The upcoming recruitment fair is a phenomenal opportunity for those interested in a career in law enforcement to discover available opportunities to protect and serve our community,” said Senator Jon Bramnick. “Becoming a law enforcement officer is a tremendous responsibility with incredible rewards and I encourage anyone with an interest in the field to attend.” 

Law enforcement partners from federal, state, county, and municipal agencies will be in attendance. Applicants are encouraged to dress professionally and bring their resumes. 

Agencies that will be in attendance include: ATF (Newark), Homeland Security Investigations (Newark), Federal Bureau of Investigation (Newark), Drug Enforcement Association, U.S. Secret Service, New Jersey Division of Civil Rights, Prosecutor’s Offices of Bergen, Camden, Somerset, Sussex, Middlesex, Monmouth, Hudson, Essex and Union Counties, New Jersey State Parole, New Jersey Department of Corrections, Essex County Corrections,  Division of Criminal Justice, New Jersey Division of Civil Rights, New Jersey State Police, New Jersey / New York Port Authority Police, Human Services Police, Union County Sheriff, New Jersey Transit Police, Palisades Interstate Parkway Police, Newark Bronze Shields, NOBLE, MALEA, HALEA, Women in Law Enforcement, NAACP, New Jersey Civil Service Commission, Prevention Links, and the Police Departments of Scotch Plains, Linden, Union County, Westfield, Berkeley Heights, Roselle, Plainfield, Newark, Fanwood, Clark, Rahway, Hillside, Kenilworth, New Providence, Maplewood, East Orange, Orange, Irvington, North Wildwood, Franklin Township, Kean University, Rutgers University, Princeton University, Stevens Institute, New Jersey Institute of Technology, and Alexandria (VA).

In addition, individuals seeking a career as assistant prosecutors will have the opportunity to discuss those careers with current assistant prosecutors and be advised of the process necessary to pursue that position. 

The Law Enforcement Recruitment Fair is jointly hosted by Kean University and the Union County

Prosecutor’s Office, and with the support of the Union County Board of County Commissioners, New Jersey Senate President Nicholas Scutari, New Jersey Senators Joseph Cryan and Jon Bramnick, Elizabeth Branch NAACP President Shawn McClain, and New Jersey NOBLE President Jiles Ship. 

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Union County Celebrates Arbor Day with Poetry Contest for Schools

In recognition of Arbor Day, the Union County Board of County Commissioners is once again partnering with the Union County Shade Tree Advisory Board to sponsor the annual Arbor Day Poetry Contest for students in Union County. The deadline for entry is March 10, 2023.

sun shinning through leaves and branches of a large tree

“Encouraging our youth to appreciate and preserve our natural heritage is very important, and we are especially proud of the students who share their messages of environmental conservation with the Union County community, through their poetry,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Trees make an enormous difference to the quality of life in our area and the national Arbor Day celebration provides all of us with an opportunity to recognize the important role they play.”

“We can learn so much when we listen to the voices of the young people in our community. Their creativity and their insights inspire us to be good stewards of the natural world we have inherited, for the next generation to enjoy, preserve, and protect,” said Commissioner Lourdes Leon, the Commissioner Board Liaison to the Shade Tree Advisory Board.

Participation in the Arbor Day Poetry Contest is organized through the schools. Each school in Union County has received information on entering their students in the contest. For additional information, principals and staff can contact Madeline Brigantino, Union County Department of Engineering, Public Works and Facilities Management at mbrigantino@ucnj.org  or 908-789-3653.

The poetry contest offers students of Union County, currently enrolled in grades 4 through 8, an opportunity to obtain a greater understanding of Arbor Day by encouraging them to portray the importance of trees in the natural environment and man-made landscapes, by focusing on the benefits, beauty, and contributions of trees to our communities.

All poems received will be categorized by grade and judged.  One winner will be chosen for first, second, and third place at each grade level.  The winners will be invited to attend an awards ceremony on April 27th at 6:00 p.m., and will be publicly recognized by the Union County Board of County Commissioners. 

Arbor Day has been a national observance since 1872, encouraging the public to plant and care for trees. This year it will be celebrated on Friday, April 28.

For quick links to all environmental programs and services hosted by Union County visit The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.

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 Commissioners Welcome NBC Anchor Jen Maxfield to Union County, March 7

In celebration of National Women’s History Month 2023, the Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to present Jen Maxfield, Emmy award winning reporter and anchor for NBC New York, to discuss her first book, More After the Break: A Reporter Returns to Ten Unforgettable News Stories, on Tuesday, March 7, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at Union College of Union County.

Jen maxfield book conversation flyer

The event will take place at the Student Center at the Union College Cranford Campus, 1033 Springfield Avenue in Cranford.

The event is free of charge but registration is required in advance at ucnj.org/maxfield23.

“We are honored to bring Jen Maxfield to our Union County community, especially during Women’s History Month,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “She has had a long tenure in the journalism world covering stories at all levels and it is through her work, as well as mentoring students and professionals along the way, that makes her a true inspiration to all.”

 “Jen Maxfield is a wonderful example of the enriching contributions that women have made to the profession of journalism throughout the history of our nation, and we are very proud to welcome her to Union County,” said Commissioner Vice Chair Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded.

Each year, the National Women’s History Alliance designates a theme for Women’s History Month. The 2023 theme is “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories,” in celebration of women who have engaged in both journalism and storytelling across a wide range of media including print, radio, TV, stage, screen, blogs, podcasts, news, and social media.

Jen Maxfield is an Emmy-award winning reporter and anchor for NBC New York. Her first book, More After the Break: A Reporter Returns to Ten Unforgettable News Stories was be published by Greenleaf Book Group last year, providing a unique and compelling perspective on the present-day experiences and recollections of families that weathered high profile news events years ago.

Maxfield is also an adjunct professor at the Graduate School of Journalism at Columbia University where she teaches broadcast journalism, and she has extensive experience as a professional coach.

This special Women’s History Month program in Union County is made possible by funds from the New Jersey Historical Commission, and is presented by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a division of the Department of Parks and Recreation. For more information about this event and other activities and programs of the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, visit ucnj.org/cultural, email culturalinfo@ucnj.org, or call 908-558-2550.

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 Provides Bilingual Assistance for Seniors Seeking Services in March

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

ask(aging services kiosk) flyer

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

“The ASK program offers the opportunity to visit in person with our knowledgeable staff, in the familiar environment of a local library or community center. We encourage all seniors and care givers to visit a nearby ASK program to connect with accurate, reliable information about helpful resources and programs,” said 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 upcoming ASK events in February all include bilingual assistance in Spanish:

Thursday, March 2nd

Union Public Library

1060 Stuyvesant Avenue

Union, NJ 07083

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Wednesday, March 8th

Garwood Public Library

411 Third Avenue

Garwood, NJ 07027

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Monday, March 13th

Clark Public Library

303 Westfield Avenue

Clark, NJ 07066

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Wednesday, March 15th

Elizabeth Public Library – Main

11 S. Broad Street

Elizabeth, NJ 07202

12:00 PM – 2:00 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.

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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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Property Tax Appeal Filing Fee Waived for Qualifying Seniors and Veterans

As part of the 2023 Chairman Initiatives, “Building a Stronger Union County,” the Union County Board of County Commissioners, are pleased to announce that a series of four informational sessions will be held for residents who wish to file a property tax appeal. The new, first-of-its-kind program is designed assist in navigating the appeal process without incurring unnecessary attorney fees, as part of Union County’s commitment to support long-term housing security.

“Taking care of our residents is something that our Commissioner Board strives to do and we believe that everyone can use assistance, especially when living costs are on the rise,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “These workshops, that include both information and filing assistance, will help ensure that people can access information on their property and possibly reduce their property taxes by appealing, all while Union County is covering the costs of the filing fee for those qualifying seniors and veterans who attend. Together, we continue to prioritize our efforts to strengthen the programs and services offered to our residents, while maintaining our strong financial footing – because we know that every dollar counts.”

The sessions will be conducted by staff attorneys with the Union County Office of the County Counsel. Attendees will learn how to file an appeal without an attorney; get assistance in completing the appeals application; and get help navigating online resources to obtain recent sales comparisons.

The sessions are free but registration is required in advance at www.ucnj.org/taworkshop. Please call Union County at 908-527-4182, if any additional assistance with registration is needed.

Any eligible Union County property owners can attend any of the following sessions:

  • Rahway: Tuesday, February 28 at the Rahway Community Center, 275 East Milton Avenue, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
  • Elizabeth: Saturday, March 4 at the Elizabeth Public Library, 11 South Broad Street, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
  • Roselle: Thursday, March 9 at Union County’s Warinanco Sports Center, 1 Park Drive in Warinanco Park, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
  • Plainfield: Tuesday, March 14 at the Plainfield Public Library, 800 Park Avenue, 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM.

Seniors and Veterans eligibility for a property tax waiver is based on the following qualifications:

  • Must be a Union County resident
  • Must be 62 years old or older, or a U.S. veteran honorably discharged from the military
  • Must be the property owner of record with annual household income not greater than $65,000
  • The tax assessed value of the home must not be greater than $399,000.

Union County will cover the filing fee for qualifying seniors and veterans who attend an information session. The fee is $5.00 for homes assessed up to $150,000 and $25.000 for homes assessed up to $399,000.

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Union County Clerk Advises Travelers on Passport Wait Times

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi advises residents with overseas travel plans that the U.S. Department of State is continuing to experience extended wait times for processing passport renewals and new passport applications.

next gen. passport flyer
The U.S. Department of State is introducing a new, upgraded passport.

“Before you make travel plans, please be sure to check the expiration date on your passport,” said Ms. Rajoppi. “Most countries will not admit travelers with passports that will expire within six months, so be sure that your renewal is completed before the six-month period begins.”

The State Department is experiencing a wait time of 8-11 weeks for passport renewals and 5-7 weeks for expedited renewals. The same waiting period applies to new passport applications.

“We also remind travelers to make sure you are fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19 before going overseas,” said Ms. Rajoppi. “Most countries require it, and vaccination is the surest way to reduce the risk of serious illness, long term health impacts, or death from the virus.”

Travelers who are renewing their passports for the first time this year will notice the State Department has redesigned the passport book.

The new “Next Generation Passport” was designed with added security and aesthetic elements including a polycarbonate data page, laser-engraved personalization and updated artwork. The art features detailed linework and ink colors that showcase U.S. architecture, history, culture, landscapes, and traditions.

The Next Generation Passport is being introduced for new passports and renewals only. Current passport holders may continue to use their books and cards until they expire.

For the latest updates on passport wait times at the State Department, and for additional details about renewing or obtaining a U.S. passport, visit travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.

The Union County Clerk is authorized to accept passport applications and forward them to the State Department for processing. This service is available in person and by appointment only.

To make an appointment at the County Clerk’s main office in the Union County Courthouse in Elizabeth, use the online system: ucnj.org/county-clerk/county-clerk-online-appointment-system.

To make an appointment at the annex office in the Colleen Frasier Building, at the Union County complex at 300 North Avenue East in Westfield, use the online system: ucnj.org/county-clerk/county-clerk-online-appointment-system.

Passport photos are also available at both offices for a nominal fee of $10.00 each.

For more information about the County Clerk’s passport service, visit online at ucnj.org/county-clerk/passport-services or call 908-527-4966.

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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Diversity and Inclusion Job Fair for Union County Residents, Feb. 22

Job seekers in Union County are invited to attend the upcoming Diversity and Inclusion Job Fair in honor of Black History Month beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 22 at the Plainfield Public Library, 800 Park Avenue in Plainfield. Leading employers in Union County will be participating, including Wakefern, RWJ Trinitas and more.

diversity and inclusion job fair flyer

The event is a partnership between the Union County Board of County Commissioners, the Plainfield Public Library, the Gateway Regional Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey and the American Job Center.

“By reaching out to our business community during Black History Month with the Diversity and Inclusion Job Fair, we hope to break down some of the barriers to employment and create new opportunities for our residents to reach their full potential,” said Union County Commissioner Board Sergio Granados, who is Commissioner Board Liaison to the Union County Workforce Development Board.

Attendance is free of charge but pre-registration is required online at ucnj.org/job-fair.

Attendees should dress for interviews and bring their resume.

Employers will have representatives on site to speak with attendees. Participating employers include the following companies, and more:

  • COACH USA
  • Wakefern
  • Carefinders
  • RWJ Trinitas
  • FedEx
  • Clean Harbors
  • Amazon
  • BAYADA
  • On-Time Ambulance
  • VisionWorks

Employers who are interested registering to participate in the job fair can email Carolina Marin, Union County American Job Center Senior Manager Business Development at Astrid.marin@ucnj.org.

The Union County American Job Center is a division of the Union County Department of Human Services, providing in-person career services. Counselors on staff work with job seekers to identify their interests, assess their skills and abilities, and advise them on in-demand jobs and potential training opportunities. The Union County American Job Center also organizes recruiting events and workshops on resume writing, interviewing skills, and more.

To learn more about employment services offered by the Union County American Job Center, visit ucajc.org and use the “Job Seekers” link. Searchable job-finding tools are also available at the “Search Jobs” and “Find a Job” links.

An orientation video about the services provided by Union County American Job Center is available on the Union County website at ucnj.org/dhs/workforce-development.

To contact the American Job Center by phone, call the Elizabeth office at 908-558-8000, or call the Plainfield office at 908-757-9090.

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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Sensory Friendly Storytime Comes to Hillside, Elizabeth and Plainfield in March

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites children ages 12 and under to enjoy Sensory Friendly Storytime at three local public libraries in March, featuring readings by County Commissioners and other community leaders.

sensory friendly story time flyer

“Read Across America is something I look forward to every year; seeing the excitement in children’s faces as we come together and celebrate reading is one of the things that I love doing most as a County Commissioner,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “This year, we are very proud to work with our local libraries to feature Sensory Friendly Storytime events that ensure all children will be able to participate and enjoy this inclusive, worry-free environment.”

“Storytime at the library is one of the joys of childhood, and we welcome every child to come and join in the fun with their friends, neighbors and visitors. We thank our partner libraries for helping us reach out to make Sensory Friendly Storytime a wonderful event for the young readers in our community,” said Union County Vice Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded.

Sensory Friendly Storytime is free of charge but registration is required in advance through Union County’s secure registration page, ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.

Children of all abilities ages 12 and under are invited to attend any or all of the following sessions:

  • Thursday, March 2, 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at the Hillside Public Library, 1409 Liberty Avenue in Hillside
  • Friday, March 3, 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at the Elizabeth Public Library, 11 South Broad Street in Elizabeth
  • Monday, March 6, 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library, 800 Park Avenue in Plainfield. 

Sensory Friendly Storytime is coordinated by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs in the Department of Human Services, in collaboration with the public libraries of Hillside, Elizabeth and Plainfield.

For more information about activities and support services offered through the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs visit ucnj.org/special-needs. To contact the office, use the online form at ucnj.org/special-needs, or call 908-527-4807 or 908-527-4781.

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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Voter Registration Deadline for Springfield Residents is Tuesday, Feb. 21

The Union County Board of Elections reminds Springfield residents that Tuesday, February 21 is the deadline for voter registration for the March 14 Springfield Special School Board Election. The election will take place from 8am to 8pm.

vote

Voting will take place at the regular polling locations, which can be found on the Election Board website, ucnj.org/ucboe or by calling the Election Board at 908-527-4123.

The secure ballot drop box located at the Chisholm Recreation Center, 100 South Springfield Avenue, Springfield, will be open for this election for voters wishing to return their mail-in ballot by using the drop box.

For all Union County Board of Elections information visit online at ucnj.org/ucboe, email ucboe@ucnj.org, or call 908-527-4123.

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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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Snakes, Lizards, Birds and More: Union County Hosts Special Nature Programs over President’s Day Weekend

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites families to enjoy “February Festivities,” a nature-filled weekend of shows and activities at Union County’s Trailside Nature and Science Center, located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside, this Saturday, February 18 and Sunday, February 19.

February Festivities flyer

Spots are still available for Unique Creatures on Saturday, February 18 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. The show features live animals including snakes, lizards, insects and birds.

 “Along with special programs like February Festivities, the doors of Trailside are open all year ‘round for visitors to walk through and explore the exhibits,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “We are very proud to offer our residents the enriching experiences of our natural heritage in our County parks and at Trailside.”

Pre-registration and a modest fee are required for all February Festivities programs. To register, visit ucnj.org/trailside and follow the link to Union County’s secure online registration page. The fee per person per program is $7.00 for Union County residents and $8.00 for non-county residents.

The programs are recommended for families with children ages four and older.

In addition to Unique Creatures, a limited number of spots are available for the following February Festivities activities:

The Journey of Sap to Syrup, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. on Saturday, February 18 and Sunday, February 19. See how real maple syrup is made and take part in a taste test to see if you can identify the real thing.

A Winter Walk Scavenger Hunt, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 18 and Sunday, February 19. Search the woods for buck rubs, bird nests and bright red berries, and enjoy a campfire with hot chocolate and marshmallows. 

The Science of Magic, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. on Sunday, February 19 only, featuring mirrors, magnets and optical illusions.

For more details about February Festivities and other upcoming programs at Trailside, visit ucnj.org/trailside or call 908-789-3670.

Aside from special programming, Trailside welcomes visitors free of charge every day except Mondays and major holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Please note that Trailside is closed on Monday, February 20, for President’s Day.

For quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities, visit the Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.

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.