The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites all residents with disabilities and their families to the 2024 Summer Festival for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs. The event will take place on Sunday, July 28th, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Warinanco Sports Center, located at 1 Park Drive in Roselle.
“Union County is proud to offer a range of inclusive events throughout the year, such as our annual Summer Festival, which aim to create a welcoming and accommodating environment for families and individuals of all ages and abilities,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This year, we have organized a range of activities suitable for all ages, and we would love for you to join us for some indoor family fun. We are excited to see everyone there.”
July is Disability Pride Month and marks the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a civil rights law passed in 1990 to prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life.
The festival will feature a wide range of activities and attractions suitable for people of all ages and abilities. Attendees can enjoy various activities including games, face painting, bubble shows, hula dancing, and a Stilt Walker performance. Light refreshments will be available in designated areas throughout the park.
“As we celebrate Disability Pride Month, the 2024 Summer Festival is just one example of the Board of County Commissioners’ commitment to creating an inclusive community,” said Union County Commissioner and Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council Sergio Granados. “This event is a wonderful opportunity for individuals with disabilities and their families to come together, enjoy a day of fun activities, and celebrate the progress we have made in ensuring equal opportunities and activities for all.”
Admission to the Summer Festival is always free, but registration is required. To register online, please visit: ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.
This event is hosted by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, under the Division of Individual and Family Support Services of the Union County Department of Human Services.
For more information about the “Summer Festival” or other programs or events hosted by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn/ or call 908-527-4781.
Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying for mosquitoes Thursday Evening, June 20, 2024, between the hours of 6:00PM to 11:00PM (Weather Permitting). Check below for a list of areas to be sprayed. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Union County Office of Mosquito Control at 908-654-9834 or 908-654-9835.
This information is subject to change. We strongly encourage you call the Union County Human Services Action Line at 908-677-5405 to ensure the cooling center you plan on utilizing is open.
Elizabeth
Fred Erxleben Rec. Center
8:30 AM – 10:00 PM
513 Richmond St.
Mickey Walker Rec. Center
8:30 AM – 10:00 PM
860 Anna St.
Peterson Community Center
8:30 AM – 10:00 PM
418 Palmer St.
Hillside
Hillside Community Center
8 AM – 8 PM
274 Hillside Avenue
Linden
Linden Public Library
Monday – Wednesday
9:00 AM – 9 PM
31 East Henry Street
John T. Gregorio Recreation Center
Monday – Friday
8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
330 Helen Street
Linden Multi-Purpose Center
Monday – Friday
9 AM – 8 PM
1025 John Street
New Providence
DeCorso Community Center – Card Room
June 19 – June 21
10 AM – 6 PM
15 East Fourth St.
Plainfield
Senior Center
June 18 – June 21
8 AM – 8 PM
Corner of 400 East Front and Church St.
Roselle
Amalfe Community Center
1268 Shaffer Avenue
Roselle Park
Casano Community Center
June 20 – June 21
10 AM – 9 PM
314 Chestnut St.
Scotch Plains
Tuesday June 18, 2024,
Municipal Building Courtroom
9:00am to 4:00pm
Scotch Plains Public Library,
9:30am – 5:00pm
Wednesday June 19, 2024
Municipal Building Courtroom
9:00am to 5:30pm
Library is closed
Thursday June 20, 2024
Municipal Building
9:00am to 1:00pm
Library
9:30am to 9:00pm
Friday June 21, 2024
Library
9:30 – 5:00pm
Saturday June 22, 2024
Library
9:30am – 5:00pm
Springfield
Chisholm Community Center
Wednesday, June 19, 2024
8:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Thursday, June 20, 2024
8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Friday, June 21, 2024
8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
100 South Springfield Avenue (corner of Shunpike Road)
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to invite all residents and community members to join us in commemorating Juneteenth with a special flag-raising ceremony. The event will take place on June 19, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. on the steps of the County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth.
“Juneteenth is a day of profound reflection and celebration,” said Commissioner Rebecca Williams, Master of Ceremonies for the event. “As both a Commissioner and an educator with a deep personal connection to this day, I take pride in celebrating my ancestors’ emancipation and the enduring resilience of the African American community. Juneteenth fuels the pursuit of justice, and through this ceremony, we honor the past, empower the present, and shape a brighter future.”
The Juneteenth Flag was created in 1997 to commemorate June 19, 1865, when the citizens of Galveston, Texas were finally notified about the abolition of slavery. President Lincoln had signed the Proclamation of Emancipation more than two years earlier, on January 1, 1863.
“As we commemorate Juneteenth, our celebration goes beyond acknowledging the historical significance of emancipation. We emphasize the ongoing journey towards justice, equality, and empowerment,” said Commissioner Michèle S. Delisfort. “We envision sparking conversations that drive positive change, promote unity, and contribute to a future where every person is acknowledged, respected, and celebrated as the remarkable individual they are. I am looking forward to attending this flag raising, as well as other Juneteenth celebrations throughout our County.”
In addition to the flag raising, Commissioner Sergio Granados, alongside his fellow Commissioner Colleagues and County officials, will unveil a concept for a monument titled “In Memoriam of The 1741 Project: Honoring the Lives Lost to Slavery as well as the Struggle for Freedom,” which will be officially erected in the fall. This unveiling will feature a mock-up of the monument, symbolizing our commitment to remembering and honoring those who endured unimaginable suffering and fought for their freedom.
“The Juneteenth flag is a symbol of liberation and a reminder of the resilience of the African American community,” said Commissioner James Baker. “On Wednesday, we will raise the flag high in honor of those who fought for freedom and equality and I hope all of our residents and visitors join us.”
For more information about the Juneteenth Flag ceremony, please contact Judith Guest, Community Engagement & Diversity Coordinator Judith.Guest@ucnj.org or 908-527-4388.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners would like to announce the arrival of two free summer programs for families – the Family Fun and Flix series, beginning on July 16th and running through August 20th at Warinanco Park in Roselle, and the Summer Arts Concert Series, beginning on July 20th and held in various Union County parks.
“Music and movies are the perfect ingredients for family fun, especially in the summer,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “I urge all Union County residents to take advantage of these free summer events that create laughter, memories, and endless entertainment for the whole family.”
All Family Fun and Flix showings will begin at dusk, with festivities to begin at 7:30pm, and an ice cream truck on site for attendees who wish to purchase a snack. Participants are encouraged to bring their own blankets and chairs. All movies will be shown on a weather-permitting basis. The schedule for the Family Fun and Flix night is listed below:
Tuesday, July 16th – Wish
Tuesday, July 23rd – Migration
Tuesday, July 30th – Elemental
Tuesday, August 13th – Trolls Band Together
Tuesday, August 20th – The Little Mermaid (2023)
The Summer Arts Concert Series includes various musical acts in either Oak Ridge Park in Clark, or Echo Lake Park in Mountainside. The schedule is listed below:
Saturday, July 20th – The Little Mermen: A Disney-tribute concert at Oak Ridge Park from 12:00pm-4:00pm, and will include other acts and family fun activities.
Wednesday, July 24th – The Pink Floyd Project: A 10-piece Pink Floyd tribute with a light show, beginning at 7:30pm, with a yoga class before the concert at 6:30pm.
Wednesday, August 7th – 5 Against 1: A Pearl Jam Tribute band at Echo Lake Park starting at 7:30pm, with a yoga class before the concert at 6:30pm.
Saturday, August 17th – Taylor Nation: The premier Taylor Swift sing-along tribute band at Oak Ridge Park from 12:00pm-4:00pm, and will include other acts and family fun activities. For more information about Family Fun and Flix or the Summer Arts Concert Series, please visit www.ucnj.org/summer24 or call the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at 908-527-4900.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to invite all residents and community members to join us in commemorating Juneteenth with a special flag-raising ceremony. The event will take place on June 19, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. on the steps of the County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth.
“Juneteenth is a day of profound reflection and celebration,” said Commissioner Rebecca Williams, Master of Ceremonies for the event. “As both a Commissioner and an educator with a deep personal connection to this day, I take pride in celebrating my ancestors’ emancipation and the enduring resilience of the African American community. Juneteenth fuels the pursuit of justice, and through this ceremony, we honor the past, empower the present, and shape a brighter future.”
The Juneteenth Flag was created in 1997 to commemorate June 19, 1865, when the citizens of Galveston, Texas were finally notified about the abolition of slavery. President Lincoln had signed the Proclamation of Emancipation more than two years earlier, on January 1, 1863.
“As we commemorate Juneteenth, our celebration goes beyond acknowledging the historical significance of emancipation. We emphasize the ongoing journey towards justice, equality, and empowerment,” said Commissioner Michèle S. Delisfort. “We envision sparking conversations that drive positive change, promote unity, and contribute to a future where every person is acknowledged, respected, and celebrated as the remarkable individual they are. I am looking forward to attending this flag raising, as well as other Juneteenth celebrations throughout our County.”
In addition to the flag raising, Commissioner Sergio Granados, alongside his fellow Commissioner Colleagues and County officials, will unveil a concept for a monument titled “In Memoriam of The 1741 Project: Honoring the Lives Lost to Slavery as well as the Struggle for Freedom,” which will be officially erected in the fall. This unveiling will feature a mock-up of the monument, symbolizing our commitment to remembering and honoring those who endured unimaginable suffering and fought for their freedom.
“The Juneteenth flag is a symbol of liberation and a reminder of the resilience of the African American community,” said Commissioner James Baker. “On Wednesday, we will raise the flag high in honor of those who fought for freedom and equality and I hope all of our residents and visitors join us.”
For more information about the Juneteenth Flag ceremony, please contact Judith Guest, Community Engagement & Diversity Coordinator Judith.Guest@ucnj.org or 908-527-4388.
Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi advises residents with overseas travel plans that the U.S. Department of State has announced new processing wait times for passport renewals and new passport applications.
“In light of the travel trend in 2024, it is essential for international travelers to carefully check their passport expiration dates, as a minimum of 6 months’ validity is generally required before departure. As travel time approaches for families and others, we are dedicated to ensuring they have a hassle-free experience. Therefore, we strongly advise renewing your passport well ahead of your travel plans to guarantee a smooth and seamless journey.”
As of this week, the State Department is experiencing a wait time of 6-8 weeks for routine applications and 2-3 weeks for expedited applications. Processing times begin when the Department of State receives the application and does not include mailing times which can take up to 2 weeks. Depending on demand, processing times fluctuate throughout the year.
The Office of the County Clerk passport staff are experienced passport agents who can answer any questions you might have and assist you with applying or renewing a passport. Residents can make an appointment online for the Elizabeth or Westfield office, with several options including daytime, evening and Saturday hours. This service is available in person and by appointment only.
The County Clerk’s main office is located in the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth and the annex office is located in the Colleen Frasier Building, at the Union County Complex, located at 300 North Avenue East in Westfield.
Passport photos are also available at both offices for a minimal fee of $10.00 each. To make an appointment at either location, please visit www.ucnj.org/county-clerk/passport-services/ and click “Make an Appointment Online.”
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. 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.
Lydia Watson of Plainfield was awarded First Place for Works on Paper by a Professional Artist for her artwork titled “Ride or Die.”
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to present an exhibit of artworks awarded First Place in their respective media category in the recent Union County 2024 Senior Art Exhibit, which celebrates artwork created by county residents age 60 or above. Awards were selected by an independent panel of professional artists.
“This collection of artwork highlights the incredible talent and creativity of our senior residents,” said Union County Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Their works enrich our community, and the artists inspire us all with their dedication and commitment to their artistic visions.”
These exceptional, award-winning artworks are on view in the Commissioners’ Gallery until June 28. The public is invited to visit the Gallery on the 6th floor of the Union County Administration Building at 10 Elizabethtown Plaza in Elizabeth on weekdays from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm throughout the month of June.
First-place works by Non-professional artists are: Nicholas Florio (of Roselle Park); Monica Hillman (Scotch Plains); Joe Manzella (Cranford); Debbie Painter (Rahway); Cheryl Payne (Hillside); Jody Pfeiffer (Westfield); and Tami Schneider (Summit). First-place works by Professional artists are: Veronica Dunscombe (of New Providence); Kim Eckstrom (Fanwood); Marilyn Espinoza (Scotch Plains); Paul Federico (Scotch Plains); Diane Gallo (Summit); Marianne Jennings (Mountainside); Betsy Kozlowski (Summit); Leona Seufert (Garwood); Dorothy Siclare (Plainfield); Lydia Watson (Plainfield); and Louise Wheeler (New Providence).
Additional artists whose works were awarded First Place but are not currently on view, are: Luciano Felicio (of Union), Tatyana Kardonova (Springfield) and Peter Pagano (Clark).
From all of the artworks entered, Best of Show by a Non-Professional Artist was awarded to Monica Hillman of Scotch Plains. Best of Show by a Professional Artist was awarded to Veronica Dunscombe of New Providence.
All of the first-place artworks, including 3D work, will go on to the exhibit and competition in the 58th annual New Jersey State Senior Citizens Art Show at Meadow Lakes in East Windsor, which will be on view October 5–30, 2024.
To learn more about the programs and events organized by the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, call 908-558-2550 or email culturalinfo@ucnj.org.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners reminds residents that the deadline to register for the 10th annual Union County Women Mean Business Summit (UCWMB) is approaching. The event will take place on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Galloping Hill Golf Course, located at 3 Golf Drive in Kenilworth. To register, please visit www.ucnj.org/ucwmb/. The deadline to register is 12:00 p.m. noon on Monday, June 10th.
“This conference is a great opportunity to network and learn from fellow female entrepreneurs, managers, and aspiring businesswomen,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Our expert presenters will address current topics relevant to women’s experiences and challenges in business today. Join us to expand your network and elevate your business.”
The UCWMB Conference will include breakfast and lunch, as well as two breakout sessions where attendees can choose from two presentations during each session.
9:40 a.m. – 10:40 a.m. – Session One
Finding Your Superpower: Recognizing the Extraordinary Within
Presented by: Lena Cohen Hawskins, MAHS
Lena Cohen-Hawkins is the Director of DEI, Culture, and Communications at Brother Industries. She is an International Speaker, 3x Best Selling Author, and Business Consultant who has worked with companies like CBS, Prudential, RWJ/Barnabas, Atlantic Health, and the U.S. Army. Lena has also been in service to numerous community organizations and spent several years as a legislative aide to Assemblywoman Cleopatra Tucker, 28th District State of NJ. She values her family, enjoys traveling with her husband, engaging in creative expression, and spending time with her 3-year-old French bulldog.
or Mission Possible: Unlocking the Success of Your Team
Presented by: Dr. Diane Brescher, CPTD
Dr. Diane Brescher, CPTD, is the President and Founder of GEM Leaders, a firm specializing in leadership development and coaching. With over 30 years of experience, she offers expertise in adult learning, leadership development, coaching, needs assessments, course design, competency mapping, facilitation, and leadership coaching for individuals and teams, focusing on emotional intelligence, change management, and dealing with resistance. Throughout her career, Diane has worked with leaders at all levels and across various industries, focusing on helping mid-level leaders tackle workplace challenges efficiently and effectively during workplace transitions.
Marissa Ruggiero is a senior Human Resources professional with a background in employment law. She currently serves as a People Business Partner Director for Ralph Lauren and has previously worked with Verizon and Bed Bath & Beyond. Marissa is active in the Springfield community and holds positions on several non-profit boards. She is a graduate of Rutgers University and Seton Hall Law School and resides in Springfield with her husband and daughter.
or Balanced Bliss: Strategies for Busy Women
Presented by: Dr. Carla J. Cooke
Dr. Carla J. Cooke, a Union County resident and CEO of Sound Psychological Assessment Center, is a renowned expert witness in legal cases involving discrimination and sexual assault. She advocates for trauma-informed psychological evaluations and has served as Assistant Commissioner for the prevention of child abuse and neglect in New Jersey. Dr. Cooke holds degrees in psychology from Bergen Community College and Rutgers University and is a licensed psychologist certified in EMDR.
Following the breakout sessions, there will be lunch, followed by this year’s keynote speaker, Adenah Bayoh, founder of Adenah Bayoh & Companies. Adenah Bayoh is a successful entrepreneur who escaped the civil war in Liberia at age 13 and immigrated to the United States. She is now one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the State of New Jersey, owning a total of seven restaurants, including 4 IHOP franchises. In addition to her restaurants, Adenah is a successful real estate developer, with a portfolio of several major residential and mixed-use projects across Northern New Jersey. Adenah is known for her philanthropic efforts and has received recognition for her achievements, including being appointed to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York Advisory Council on Small Business and Agriculture.
There will be several breaks throughout the event for open networking. Admission to the UCWMB Summit is $55 per person. To register, or for more information on this event, please visit ucnj.org/ucwmb/.
The 2024 Union County Women Mean Business Summit is a program organized by the Union County Department of Economic Development through the Office on Women. This event is made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors including JCT Solutions, Atlantic Health, Kemper Sports, United Airlines, L’Oreal, and Union Catholic High School.
For more information about this event, please visit ucnj.org/ucwmb or contact Deana Mesaros at 908-527-4273.
Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that vote-by-mail ballots are currently being mailed out for the Special Primary Election for the 10th congressional district to be held on July 16th.
This special primary election is being held to fill the seat of the late Congressman Donald Payne. The 10th congressional district includes the Union County municipalities of Cranford, Garwood, Hillside, Kenilworth, Linden (part), Roselle, Roselle Park and Union Township. Voters can log onto www.unioncountyvotes.com to see when the ballots for their towns are being mailed.
“We urge all residents to visit Union County Votes to check the status of their vote-by-mail ballots,” said Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi. “Keeping track of your ballot ensures your vote will be accurately represented in this Special Primary Election.”
For more information on voting in Union County elections, visit www.unioncountyvotes.com or call 908-527-4996.
