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Union County Seniors are Award Winners in New Jersey State Art Show

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce that 10 Union County artists have been selected as award winners in the 56th annual New Jersey Senior Art Show. The exhibit includes works of art created by both professional and non-professional artists, ages 60 and up, from all 21 counties across the state.

"Amanda Gorman, My Favorite Poet" oil painting by Elizabeth Gillin
“Amanda Gorman, My Favorite Poet,” by Westfield resident Elizabeth Gillin, was awarded First Place for Oil Painting by a Non-professional artist in the 2022 New Jersey Senior Art Show.

To qualify for the statewide exhibit, artists first have to participate in juried exhibits within their own counties, and receive a first-place award in their media category.

“Listen to Your Heart,” digital art by Joe Manzella
“Listen to Your Heart,” by Cranford resident Joe Manzella, was awarded First Place for Digital Art by a Non-professional artist in the 2022 New Jersey Senior Art Show.

“On behalf of the Commissioner Board, I thank everyone who participated in the Union County Senior Art Show last spring, and congratulate the awardees who are exhibiting in the statewide show. We are all enriched by the creativity and insights of the senior members of our community,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams.

The Union County awardees are:

  • Joe Manzella (Cranford) — 1st Place, Digital Art by a Non-Professional artist, for the artwork, “Listen to Your Heart”
  • Elizabeth Gillin (Westfield) — 1st Place, Oil Painting by a Non-Professional artist, for the painting, “Amanda Gorman, My Favorite Poet”
  • Sam Awad (Summit) 2nd Place, Photography by a Professional artist, for the artwork, “Pit Stop”
  • Michelle Thompson (Union) — 3rd Place, Mixed Media by a Non-Professional artist, for the artwork, “Finding Beauty in a World of Chaos”
  • Marianne O’Neill (Rahway) — Honorable Mention, Craft by a Non-Professional artist, for the artwork, “Birdhouses & Buttons”
  • Lynda Dubois-Jackson (Plainfield) — Honorable Mention, Craft by a Professional artist, for the artwork, “Grandma & Friends”
  • Joseph J. Schott (Fanwood) — Honorable Mention, Oil by a Professional artist, for the painting, “Snyder Hunt Club”
  • Barbara Uhr (Westfield) — Honorable Mention, Pastel by a Professional artist, for the artwork, “Along the Banks”
  • Carol Sussman Skalka (Springfield) — Honorable Mention, Sculpture by a Non-Professional artist, for the artwork, “Caress”
  • Kim Eckstrom (Fanwood) — Honorable Mention, Watercolor by a Professional artist, for the painting, “House with Turret”

The 2022 New Jersey Senior Art Show can be viewed online at www.njseniorarts.com/gallery/.

To see the exhibit in person, visit the main building of Meadow Lakes Senior Living, 300 Meadow Lakes, in East Windsor. The public can view the artworks, free of charge, Monday through Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm. Groups of 6 or more should contact Meadow Lakes in advance by calling 609-448-4100. Directions can be found on the Meadow Lakes website at https://meadowlakesonline.org/.

The show is on display at Meadow Lakes through Thursday, October 27.

The New Jersey Senior Art Show is a co-sponsored project of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts and Mercer County’s Division of Culture & Heritage, funded by the Council on the Arts with additional support from Mercer County and the New Jersey Association of Area Agencies on Aging.

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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Safe, Free Disposal for Hazardous Materials Commonly Found in Homes and Yards

Union County to hold free drop-off event for old or unwanted household chemicals and many other items, Saturday, October 22.

hazardous waste event flyer

Union County residents can safely dispose of their unwanted household chemicals, pool supplies, used motor oil, old fire extinguishers, propane tanks and many other potentially hazardous items at Union County’s next free Household Hazardous Waste drop-off event.

The event will take place on Saturday, October 22, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at the Union County Vocational-Technical Schools campus, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains. Any Union County resident may participate, regardless of their home town.

Participants will enter the front of the campus from Raritan Road, and follow directions to the back area by West Hall and the Police Academy.

“Our Household Hazardous Waste events provide a convenient way for residents to remove unwanted chemicals and other potentially hazardous items from their homes and yards, and dispose of them safely,” said Commissioner Board Chair Rebecca Williams. “As this is the last event of 2022, we encourage all residents to take advantage of this opportunity rather than leave items in their houses all through the winter.”

Items accepted for disposal include outdated or unwanted household chemicals, mercury thermostats and thermometers, propane tanks, and automobile tires among many other items such as oil-based paint (no latex paint) and varnish, antifreeze, aerosol cans, pool chemicals, corrosives, pesticides, herbicides, solvents, thinners, fire extinguishers, motor oil and oil filters, gasoline, batteries, fluorescent bulbs (unbroken), mercury switches, and more.

A list of accepted items is available at ucnj.org/recycling/household-special-waste.

Residents with questions about unlisted items can use the online form at ucnj.org/recycling to contact the Bureau of Recycling and Planning.

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

Car tires are accepted at these events. There is a limit of eight automobile tires, without rims, per household.

Please note that latex paint (water-based) wall paint is NOT accepted.  Leftover latex paint can be used around the house, shared, donated, or allowed to dry in the can. The dried can may be discarded in regular household garbage, with the lid off. To reduce drying time, add kitty litter, newspaper scraps or a commercial paint hardener.

Union County’s Household Hazardous Waste events are drive-up only, and contact-free. Items for disposal should be brought in the vehicle’s trunk or cargo area, where they can be easily unloaded by staff at the site.

The events are held rain or shine, for Union County residents only, not for businesses. Proof of Union County residency is required.

The October 22 event is part of Union County’s annual series of recycling programs for household hazardous waste, scrap metal and personal paper shredding. These recycling programs will be on hiatus over the winter and will restart in 2023.

Visit ucnj.org/recycle for dates, times and locations, and for additional recycling resources and information in Union County. Information is also available by recorded phone message at the Recycling Hotline, 908-654-9889.

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

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

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

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Vote-by-Mail Ballots are Now Available at the Union County Clerk’s Westfield Office

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Voters can apply for their ballot in person, fill it out, and cast it in the same visit.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi reminds residents that the County Clerk’s office in Westfield is now available to voters for “One-Stop” Vote-by-Mail service. Eligible voters can pick up an application for a Vote-by-Mail ballot, receive their ballot, and cast it in a secure drop-off box all in one visit.

government building
The County Clerk’s Westfield office is located in the Colleen Fraser Building at the Union County Complex, 300 North Avenue East.

“We encourage all voters to vote early by using a Vote-by-Mail ballot, and the One-Stop service makes it easy and convenient,” said Ms. Rajoppi. “As a reminder, voters who are not on the permanent Vote-by-Mail list will need to request an application if they would like to use a Vote-by-Mail ballot.”

The County Clerk’s Westfield office is located at the Colleen Frasier Building in the Union County Complex, at 300 North Avenue East. Regular office hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Approximately 40,000 voters in Union County are on a permanent Vote-by-Mail list. Ballots were mailed to all permanent Vote-by-Mail voters last week.

Voters who are not on the permanent list must submit an application in order to receive their Vote-by-Mail ballot.

Picking up an application in person at the County Clerk’s office in Westfield is one way to obtain a Vote-by-Mail ballot application. There are also three other ways:

  • Call the County Clerk’s Elections Division at 908-527-4996 to receive an application in the mail.
  • Email the County Clerk at ucvote@ucnj.org to receive an application in the mail.
  • Download the application from the County Clerk’s elections website, unioncountyvotes.com, or use the Union County Votes mobile app, available for free download on app stores.

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

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

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

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County of Union to Hold 14th Annual Columbus Day Flag Raising, October 7th

colombus day flyer

The Board of County Commissioners invites residents to Union County’s 14th Annual Columbus Day Flag Raising event. The ceremony will take place Friday, October 7th, at 1:00 p.m., on the steps of the historic Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth.

“We are proud of the achievements of Italian Americans who have made amazing contributions in all facets of our daily lives,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams, who is emceeing the program. “We will once again recognize the hard work and dedication of Italian-Americans across our great nation and especially within Union County.”

Colleen Gialanella, Principal of the Union County Academy for Information Technology, will be the Keynote Speaker at the flag raising, where she will also receive a resolution from the Board of County Commissioners.

“As a Commissioner of Italian descent, it is always a great honor to see the Italian flag flown over the County seat as we commemorate Columbus Day,” said Commissioner Alexander Mirabella. “We welcome all residents to join us in celebrating Italian American pride on October 7.”

The nation’s largest Italian American Service Organization, UNICO will be represented at the ceremony. UNICO operates nationally and through local chapters and their members engage in promoting and defending Italian culture and heritage, as well as providing scholarships, engaging in community service and other philanthropic endeavors. Members from UNICO National, UNICO District X, Westfield UNICO, Clark UNICO and Kenilworth UNICO are all confirmed to attend and participate in the ceremony.

The Italian American Police Society of New Jersey will also be represented by President William Schievella.

“Individuals like Ms. Gialanella and organizations like UNICO and the IAPS work tirelessly to stay connected to their Italian roots on a daily basis,” said Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “It is a pleasure to have them with us as we celebrate.”

Italian-style refreshments and pastries will be served at the conclusion of the program.

Paid parking is available in the Midtown area at the J. Christian Bollwage Parking deck at Elizabethtown Plaza and Caldwell Place. A second deck is Elizabeth’s Parking Deck No. 6 on Jefferson Avenue and Dickinson Street—the entrance is on Dickinson Street.

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Union County to Host Hispanic Media Connection on October 12

Panel Discussion about Union County, the Hispanic Community and careers in television and media to be held at Kean University

The Union County Board of County Commissioners through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs invites residents to the panel discussion, Hispanic Media Connection, on Wednesday, October 12 at Kean University located at 1000 Morris Avenue in Union Township. The event will take place in the North Avenue Academic Building. Light refreshments will be served at a 6:00 p.m. reception preceding the panel discussion, which is scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. The event is free to attend.

This event is a joint collaboration between the County of Union, Kean University and Telemundo 47. The Hispanic Media Connection panel discussion is part of Union County’s Hispanic Heritage Month Program.

Hispanic Media Connection will be a great opportunity for insight on the many facets of Spanish language media and how they come together to serve the Hispanic community,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams. “We look forward to a great panel discussion and encourage all residents to attend.”

The panel will be comprised of four representatives from the Telemundo 47 world, with insights from different vantage points of the Hispanic Media industry:

  • Host/Panelist: Allan Villafana, Telemundo 47 News Anchor
  • Panelist: Rosa Garriga, Telemundo 47 Senior Financial Analyst and Linden resident
  • Panelist: Ana Abreu, Telemundo 47 Human Resources Manager and Elizabeth resident
  • Panelist: Maria Vargas-Pion, Telemundo Network Correspondent and Kean University Graduate

“The composition of this panel including county residents, a Kean University graduate and all being Telemundo 47 personnel is reflective of the synergy between Union County, Kean University and Telemundo 47,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados. “The service provided by media outlets like Telemundo 47 is a vital part of the daily lives of so many Spanish speaking residents, and the information provided during this panel will be useful in analyzing how Spanish speaking media outlets continue to evolve and serve our communities.”

During the panel, which will be followed by a Q&A session, the following discussion topics will be addressed:

  • History of Telemundo 47 in Union County and across Northern NJ
  • Impact of Telemundo 47 and Telemundo Network on you
  • Comparison to media in native countries – and local Hispanic communities
  • Careers in media – now and in the future

“The Hispanic community in Union County is growing and Telemundo 47 and other Spanish language media outlets make sure that these residents are continuously informed of local and global happenings that affect them,” said Commissioner Lourdes Leon. “This panel is a small sample of the talent that contributes to the success of foreign language media right here in our own backyard.”

Allan Villafaña is originally from Ponce, Puerto Rico. Villafaña graduated from The Ohio State University where he majored in Journalism. He joined Telemundo 47 in 2012. He currently serves as news anchor for Noticiero 47 Telemundo Primera Edición (Telemundo 47 News First Edition), as well as Noticiero 47 Telemundo Al Mediodía (Telemundo 47 News at Noon). He joined Telemundo 47 in 2012. Villafaña has received numerous professional awards and nominations throughout his career. A member of the New York Chapter’s National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, Villafaña was awarded the “Excellence in Journalism Award” by the National Association of Hispanic Journalists.

Rosa Garriga is a 31 year veteran of NBC/Telemundo who currently serves as Senior Financial Analyst for both NBC 4 New York and Telemundo 47.  A native of Cuba and a 43 year resident of Union County living mainly in Elizabeth and now currently in Rahway, Garriga has worked with Telemundo 47 for several decades and currently manages all accounts payable for the sister stations.  She has an Accounting Certificate from New York University and she began her career with NBC/Telemundo in 1981 as a Sales Assistant.

Ana Abreu is the Human Resources Manager for Telemundo 47.  In this role, she also works closely with sister station WNBC and manages benefits, labor relations and employee engagement for nearly 350 employees.  She joined Telemundo 47 in 2018 and was promoted into her current role in 2021.  A native of the Dominican Republic and a 20-year resident of Elizabeth, Abreu is a graduate of Rutgers University.

María Vargas-Pion is a national Emmy Award-Winning journalist and news correspondent at Hoy Día, Telemundo Network in New York’s Bureau. Over her twelve years as a journalist, she had worked as a news reporter at local stations, Telemundo 47 New York and Telemundo 62 in Philadelphia. She started her career as a production assistant at CNN/Headlines News at the Nancy Grace Show. María Vargas-Pion graduated Magna Cum Laude from Kean University with a Bachelor of Arts in Media and Film with a second major in Spanish. She was born in the Dominican Republic and lived a few years in Venezuela, from where she immigrated to the United States. Currently, María resides in New Jersey.

Hispanic Media Connection is made possible in part by funding from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the NJ Department of State. For more information regarding the Hispanic Heritage month and related events, please visit: https://ucnj.org/hhm22/ or contact Judith Guest, Community Engagement & Diversity Coordinator, by email at judith.guest@ucnj.org or by phone at (908) 527-4388.

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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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Use the “Workforce Learning Link” to Improve Job Opportunities

Free, easy-to-access training in basic work skills, including computer training, for Union County residents.

Union County residents who are interested in improving their employment opportunities are invited to use Union County’s new remote learning platform at the Workforce Learning Link. The Workforce Learning Link is designed to help residents enter the workforce, improve their level of employment, enter an occupational training program, or obtain a high school equivalency diploma.

workforce leaning link flyer

The Workforce Learning Link also provides in-person access, for those who prefer to use the learning program in person.

“The new remote learning option enables us to connect members of the public with workforce training services that enable them to gain valuable skills while tending to other responsibilities they may have, such as family care, school, work or civic service,” said Commissioner Rebecca L. Williams.

“With the new remote platform, we have the opportunity to tailor our services to fit the needs of our diverse, dynamic population, remove barriers to self-improvement, and make it easier for all residents to access career services. It provides an additional resource for the many Union County residents who are striving to enter the workforce and improve their employment situation,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, who is the Commissioner Board Liaison to the Workforce Development Board and the Human Services Advisory Council.

The Workforce Learning Link focuses on programs that enable participants to work towards their goals within a relatively short period of time, lasting no more than six months.

Residents who enroll in the Workforce Learning Link remote platform can create their own schedules, work at their own pace, and access their courses on a 24/7 basis.

To find out about the Workforce Learning Link and other American Job Center programs in Union County, residents can call 908-558-8000.

American Job Center offices are located in Plainfield at 200 West Second Street, and Elizabeth at 921 Elizabeth Avenue.

The American Job Center is a program of the Union County Department of Human Services. For more information, and to access the “Union County Works” one-stop virtual services portal, visit ucnj.org/dhs/workforce-development.

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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Apply to be a poll worker, earn $300 for work on Election Day

become a poll worker flyer

Union County residents interested in helping voters at polling locations on Election Day this year still have time to apply to become poll workers.

Poll workers will earn $300 for the day, starting at 5:15 a.m. through approximately 8:15, after the close of the polls. Election Day is Tuesday, November 8, 2022. Poll workers perform essential services on Election Day, by ensuring every eligible voter is afforded an opportunity to exercise their constitutional right to vote.

“Serving as a poll worker is one of the most important ways to ensure Election Day is as smooth and easy a process for voters and election officials as possible,” said Union County Board of Elections Administrator, Nicole DiRado. “It is a rewarding experience for all who take part.”

Any Union County resident who is 18 years or older, and registered to vote in Union County, can apply to become a poll worker. No experience is needed. New poll workers must attend a mandatory, in-person training session.

Prospective poll workers can apply online or by using a paper application form. To apply online, visit the Union County Board of Elections at ucnj.org/pollworker. To receive a paper application, call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4236 or email pollworker@ucnj.org.

For more information, follow the Poll Worker Resources link at ucnj.org/ucboe. For all Union County Board of Elections information visit online at ucnj.org/ucboe.

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Voter Registration Deadline for the 2022 General Election is Tuesday, October 18

voter registration dealine

The Union County Board of Elections reminds residents that Tuesday, October 18 is the deadline for voter registration for the 2022 General Election. Election Day will be on Tuesday, November 8th.

“There are multiple options for residents to register to vote in time for the upcoming election,” said Union County Board of Elections Administrator, Nicole DiRado. “Those eligible to vote can apply online, by mail or in person in order to register.”

The Union County Board of Elections office is open Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to accept Voter Registration Forms. On the October 18 voter registration deadline, the Board of Elections Office will remain open until 9:00 p.m. to receive forms.

Municipal Clerk offices can also provide and accept voter registration forms. Voter registration forms can also be downloaded from the Union County Board of Elections website at ucnj.org/boe/voter-registration-information. Be sure to print and sign the form before returning.

To register online, eligible residents should visit: voter.svrs.nj.gov/register and follow the Online Voter Registration instructions. Your County Commissioner of Registration will notify you if your application is accepted. If it is not accepted, you will be notified on how to complete and/or correct the application.

You can register to vote if:

  • You are a United States citizen
  • You will be 18 years old by the next election
  • You will be a resident of the State and county for 30 days before the election
  • You are NOT currently serving a sentence because of a felony conviction
  • As of March 17, 2020, persons currently on parole or probation are entitled to vote.

To receive a voter registration form by mail, call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4123.

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

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The Union County Women Mean Business Summit returns with “Lessons in Leadership,” on October 25

union county women mean business flyer

The Union County Board of County Commissioners would like to announce that after two years, the annual Union County Women Mean Business Summit (UCWMB) is back and will be held in person on October 25th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Galloping Hill Golf Course, located at 3 Golf Drive in Kenilworth.

“Whether an attendee is just starting out, a manager or a business owner, this seminar will provide the tools needed to grow their network, learn new skills and develop a plan to further themselves in their respective industries and help meet the challenges of today’s economic climate,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams. “Connecting women in our diverse community is more important now than ever and I am hoping to see a great turnout at this event.”

This powerful forum, titled “Lessons in Leadership,” 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 career. This year, the UCWMB Summit will feature Keynote Speaker Judith Persichilli, R.N., B.S.N., M.A, Commissioner of the New Jersey State Department of Health.

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 October 14th 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.)

“How & Why It Is Essential to Build & Maintain Valuable Relationships” Whether in private industry or public practice, understand the value of honing your networking skills and learn some practical tools for becoming more efficient and effective at developing meaningful relationships. Everyone, personally and professionally, can benefit from having a powerful network of contacts. During this one-hour interactive session, Sally Glick shares insights on the best practices that will enable the participants to develop a personal plan for integrating meaningful relationships into every aspect of their professional and personal lives. Presenter: Sally Glick, Principal & Chief Growth Strategist, SobelCo

Or “Navigating the New Normal” The workplace looks a lot different in a post-pandemic world and many of us are still working from home, trying to juggle work duties and regular life. We are job searching, trying to build valuable work relationships, and learning how to present our best selves virtually rather than face-to-face. On top of it all, this “new normal” can take its toll on us emotionally. Panelists from this session will help you navigate this changing landscape for the best outcomes possible. Presenters: Dr. Peter Bolo, Psychiatrist, Atlantic Health, Katie Tempesta, Director, Human Resources, JCT Solutions, Moderator – Marcella Gencarelli, Event Chair, Suburban Chamber of Commerce

Session Two (10:50 a.m. to 11:50 a.m.)

“Nailing the Negotiation” 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 audience participation. Presenter: Cherron Rountree, President & Partner, Direct Development: Design + Communications

OR “Turning Passion into Profits” Do you have a hobby or activity you really enjoy? Have you ever wondered how you could turn your passion into a profitable business? The women on this panel have done just that — and will share what they have learned along the way. You will hear from a business counselor about what it really takes to start your own business and make it a success. This panel will be your guide to turning what you love into a profitable venture. Presenters:  Mary Adelman, Business Counselor, UCEDC, Melanie Cecilio, Founder & CEO, Little Fox Kitchen, Sneh Kadakia, Founder & CEO, from HERE, Radiance “Rae” Ashe, Owner, HEIGHTMagazine, Felice Twaddle, Board Member, New Jersey CannaBusiness Association, Moderator – Kay LiCausi, President & CEO, Hoboken Strategy Group

Register Online Now

The UCWMB Summit is made possible by the following sponsors: JCT Solutions, Atlantic Health System, Kemper, The Mills at Jersey Gardens, Wonder and United. Partners for this event include: The County of Union, UCEDC, Suburban Chamber of Commerce, The Greater Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce, Kean University, Union College, SBDC, The Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce, Union Township Chamber of Commerce and the New Jersey Pride Chamber of Commerce.

The 2022 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.

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Union County Hosts Family Fun Day, October 15

Free event in Rahway to close out Hispanic Heritage Month celebration

family fun day flyer

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to Family Fun Day, the final event of the County’s Hispanic Heritage Month celebration on Saturday, October 15 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The event will take place in Rahway River Park, near the Walter E. Ulrich Memorial Pool, located at St. Georges Avenue in Rahway. Attendance is free and all are welcome to attend.

“This month has been a celebration and a look into the history of the Hispanic population in Union County – those who built our past and those who are contributing to our present,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams. “This is our final event of our month-long festivities and I hope to see everyone on October 15th.”

The event will be the stage for the honoring of individuals and organizations that have been pivotal in elevating the status and visibility of the Hispanic community within Union County.  The 2022 Honorees will be:

  • Albeiro Orozco – Business Leadership Award
  • Tu Apoyo Latino – Community Advocacy Award
  • Teresa Soto Vega – Humanitarian Award
  • Angel Estrada – Community Leadership Award

“According to the U.S. Department of Education, schools across our nation now enroll more than twice as many Latino students as they did in the 90s – bringing a multitude of talents and assets that make our schools more diverse and stronger,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados. “Hispanic Heritage Month has been tremendous success, attracting hundreds of residents to each event. I would like to thank all of the Union County departments, organizations and volunteers for coordinating these efforts.”

Scheduled musical performances will include the Carlos Frias Trio, PeeWee’s Magic Show, Step into Salsa with Priscilla & Vicky as well as Mariachi Internacional Castro and DJ Julian.

“Honoring the accomplishments and achievements of our Latino constituents and businesses was very important to me and hit close to home,” said Commissioner Lourdes Leon. “Being of Cuban descent myself, depicting our culture to residents, not only of Hispanic descent, but of all nationalities, was a great way to continue to unify our County. I look forward to wrapping up this month with a huge community event.”

The program for Family Fun Day includes things for residents of all ages. The event will include musical performances, food trucks from several local Latin restaurants, face painting, and sponsor tables with giveaways and arts and crafts.

For more information regarding the Hispanic Heritage month and related events, please visit: https://ucnj.org/hhm22/ or contact Judith Guest, Community Engagement & Diversity Coordinator, by email at judith.guest@ucnj.org or by phone at (908) 527-4388.

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.