The Union County Department of Engineering has announced that Linden Avenue in Rahway, between West Scott Avenue and Price Street, is temporarily closed due to a culvert failure. The culvert at this location is nearly 100 years old, and recent heavy rain and snow events have further compromised the structure, leading to the closure.
County engineers will be conducting a full inspection of the affected area to assess the extent of the damage and determine the necessary repairs. At this time, the duration of the closure is unknown. At this time, the duration of the closure is unknown.
Local resident access will be maintained during this interim period, however motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.
Updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation are excited to announce that Union County’s annual Woodcock Talk and Walk Events are returning to Watchung Reservation and Lenape Park in March. The events include a guided indoor/outdoor experience accompanied by a PowerPoint presentation that explores the lifestyle and behaviors of the elusive American Woodcock.
“We are excited to bring back Talk & Walk events for our bird watchers and nature enthusiasts to enjoy, and equally proud that the American Woodcock calls Union County its home,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “This remarkable bird, along with several other species, depends on the dedicated preservation of our natural open spaces for its survival. Its annual return not only marks the arrival of spring, but also serves as a reflection of the hard work and efforts put forth by workers, volunteers, and the community in protecting our ecosystems.”
The first Woodcock Talk & Walk event of the season will take place on Thursday, March 12th from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Masker’s Barn, located within the Deserted Village of the Watchung Reservation, 13 Cataract Hollow Road in Berkeley Heights. A second event will be held on Monday, March 16th, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Lenape Park, located at 130 Kenilworth Boulevard in Cranford.
The free events provide seasoned bird lovers and beginners alike the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the American Woodcock and learn more about the elusive species. Also known as the Timberdoodle, Labrador Twister, Night Partridge, Mudbat or Bog sucker, the American Woodcock has several distinct features. Aside from its rotund, orange-fluff belly, long bill, and short legs, the Woodcock is also recognized for its preference for damp, dense woodlands and can usually be found probing moist soil for earthworms or insects.
Aside from their amusing manner of walking, one of the most captivating features of the American Woodcock is the acrobatic courtship displays performed by the males. During mating season, male Woodcocks engage in twisting “sky dances” ascending to heights of 200 to 300 feet. The aerial performance is accompanied by a musical twittering sound as their wings climb through the air. They emit chirping notes as they zigzag back down towards the ground.
Participants are advised to dress warmly, wear sturdy shoes, and bring a flashlight. As always, the Woodcock Talk & Walk event is free and open to adults and children ages 10 and up accompanied by an adult. Participants have the flexibility to attend either or both events, but registration is required. To register, visit ucnj.org/woodcock-talks-walks/.
Both events will be led and presented by experienced nature enthusiast Peter Axelrod. Pete’s passion for the outdoors led him to study Wildlife Biology and Natural History Interpretation. His experience includes volunteering in avian population studies, wild bird rehabilitation, habitat restoration, and wildlife education. Additionally, Pete has led multiple birding ventures throughout New Jersey, collaborating with organizations such as the New Jersey Audubon, Friends of Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, and The Raptor Trust.
For more information about upcoming activities and programs in Union County Parks, visit online at ucnj.org/parks, email parksinfo@ucnj.org, or call 908-527-4900.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce that nominations for the 2026 SHERO Awards are being accepted now through April 30, 2026. The SHERO Award honors women who have created meaningful, lasting change throughout Union County through their leadership, compassion, advocacy, and dedication.
“Leadership takes many forms, and the SHERO Award was created to recognize and celebrate women who exemplify it,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “We encourage residents to nominate women from all walks of life, regardless of their profession, background, or role in the community. Every woman who advocates for change, leads with compassion or makes a quiet yet significant impact is deserving of recognition. Union County is stronger because of the women who shape it every day, and we are proud to celebrate them.”
Nominees must live or work in Union County and have made meaningful, lasting contributions to their community. Each nomination should include a photo and a brief statement explaining why the individual deserves to be recognized. The deadline for nominations is April 30, 2026, and the winners will be announced in May. To submit a nomination, or to view past recipients, please visit https://ucnj.org/shero.
For more information about the Union County SHERO Award, contact Jennifer Erdos at the Union County Office on Women at 908-527-4216 or email jerdos@ucnj.org.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that registration for the 2026 Union County Senior Art Exhibit is now open. Residents of Union County, age 60 and older, both professional and non-professional artists, are invited to enter their original artwork by Sunday, April 12, 2026, to be displayed at the Senior Art Exhibit, taking place from Friday, April 17th through Thursday, May 28th at the Scotch Plains campus of UCNJ Union College of Union County NJ, 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains.
“Each year, our annual Senior Art exhibit gives us the opportunity to celebrate the incredible talent and artistic flair thriving in our community,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “We invite all seniors, both amateurs and professional artists alike, to participate and register. We’ll be looking forward to showcasing your artwork this spring.”
The 2026 Senior Art Exhibit is an annual program organized by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a division of the Department of Parks and Recreation. A closing reception will be held on May 28th for all exhibiting artists.
The media categories include acrylic painting, oil painting, watercolor, pastel, works on paper (drawing), photography, digital art, mixed media, printmaking, sculpture, and craft. Entry must be an original work completed between April 2023 and April 2026.
Artworks entered will be judged by a panel of professional artists, with separate awards designated for professional and non-professional artists. In the fall, artworks awarded first place will advance to the state-level New Jersey Senior Citizens Art Show, which comprises award-winning works from throughout the state.
The deadline to register is Sunday, April 12, 2026. For complete rules and instructions or to register, please visit https://ucnj.org/senior-art.
Seniors without internet access can have a relative or friend with an email address register on their behalf, or the Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs will assist artists with registration by phone on weekdays.
For assistance or questions about the 2026 Senior Art Exhibit, or to receive instructions, email msturm@ucnj.org or call 908-558-2552 or 558-2550 (weekdays). Relay users dial 711. This program is made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. To learn more about the programs and services offered by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, visit https://ucnj.org/parks-recreation/cultural-heritage-affairs/.
According to recent reporting, the U.S. has officially surpassed 1,000 confirmed measles cases in 2026. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that as of February 2026, we are already approaching the total number of cases from 2025 nationally.
While there are no confirmed measles cases in New Jersey so far in 2026, and there is no recommendation for residents to seek out measles vaccination outside of routine guidance, the Union County Office of Health Management asks residents to please be aware of the CDC’s current recommendations:
Children should receive the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine according to the routine schedule — first dose at 12 months, second dose at 4–6 years old.
MMR vaccination is required for school attendance in New Jersey. If your child is not up to date, please contact your pediatrician as soon as possible. MMR vaccination is available for eligible uninsured or underinsured individuals at the Union County Family Clinic in Elizabeth; please call
Adults born before 1957 are generally considered immune due to likely past exposure (herd immunity). If concerned, speak with your healthcare provider about a blood test (titer) or receiving one dose of MMR.
Adults born after 1957 have most likely received the vaccine as part of routine childhood immunizations. If unsure, contact your provider for a titer test or receive one dose of MMR — it is safe even if you were previously vaccinated.
We will continue to monitor cases closely and remain in contact with our partners at the New Jersey Department of Health and the CDC. Follow our social media for updates and guidance as new information becomes available.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly announced County Manager Edward T. Oatman’s appointment of Captain John da Silva as the 12th Chief of the Union County Police Department, effective immediately. Chief da Silva has served as Officer in Charge since July 2024, following the retirement of former Union County Police Chief Martin Mogensen. During that time, he has overseen department operations and ensured continuity of leadership throughout the transition.
“I have known John for many years — long before I ever joined the Board,” said Union County Board of County Commissioners Chairman Joseph Bodek. “I have watched him grow into the leader he is today, both professionally and personally. His integrity is unquestioned, his work ethic is unmatched, and his commitment to this County runs deep. This appointment is not only well deserved — it reflects the kind of steady, principled leadership our residents expect and deserve.”
A twenty-two-year veteran of the Union County Police Department, Chief da Silva began his career as a Patrol Officer in 2003. He was promoted to Corporal in 2009, Sergeant in 2012, Lieutenant in 2016, Captain in 2021, and appointed Officer in Charge in July 2024. Throughout his career, he has served, supervised, and commanded many of the department’s functional areas, including assignments as Training Officer, Shift Supervisor, Shift Commander, Platoon Commander, and Unit Commander within the Patrol Division.
“I’ve spent over 22 years here, and this department has shaped much of who I am professionally,” said Chief da Silva. “The strength of this agency comes from the people who show up every day ready to serve. I’m proud to lead them. I’m also sincerely grateful to County leadership for their trust and confidence in entrusting me with this responsibility. I will continue to approach this role the same way I always have — with dedication, fairness, and a steady focus on doing the job the right way.”
Chief da Silva has played key roles in major emergency responses and high-profile operations, including Presidential security details, Hurricane Sandy, Hurricane Irene, Hurricane Ida, COVID-19 response efforts, and numerous large-scale public events throughout Union County. He was a member of the Union County Emergency Response Team/Union County SWAT, serving nearly 18 years as a negotiator. He is an FBI-certified Hostage Negotiator and a certified Active Shooter Instructor and has taught both active shooter response and hostage/crisis negotiations within the County. He also served as a recruit instructor at the John H. Stamler Police Academy.
“Chief da Silva has consistently led with integrity, sound judgment, and a strong sense of duty,” said County Manager Oatman. “His experience, operational knowledge, and dedication to the department make him exceptionally well-qualified to serve as Chief. I am confident he will continue to strengthen the Union County Police Department and uphold the highest standards of law enforcement.”
Chief da Silva has also supported community-based initiatives including the Arrive Together Program and the Blue Envelope Program and is the recipient of numerous awards from the Police Department, the Prosecutor’s Office, and Union County.
“Since the retirement of Chief Mogensen, Chief da Silva has served as Officer in Charge and provided steady, day-to-day leadership for the department during an important transition,” said Director of Public Safety Dennis Burke. “He understands the operational responsibilities of this role and the importance of supporting the officers who serve our communities. His professionalism, experience, and commitment to public safety make him exceptionally well-suited to serve as Chief.”
Chief da Silva will have a formal swearing-in ceremony at a later date.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the Union County Performing Arts Center and Theatrical Artists’ Prep, is pleased to announce that enrollment in the 2026 Summer Theater Camp Scholarship Program is now open. Aspiring campers ages 8-12 and 13-17 can apply online at ucnj.org/summertheater before May 1st for the opportunity to be cast in this year’s original performance titled “Unlimited.”
“We are proud to continue our summer scholarship program for aspiring young performers. This initiative not only gives students an exciting opportunity to further develop their skills and experience what it is like being a part of a production cast, but also allows them to be led by industry professionals from whom they can learn invaluable lessons,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “If you have a budding performer at home who likes to sing, dance, or act, we encourage you to have them apply.”
The Summer Theater Camp is a four-week summer conservatory that will run from June 29th through July 25th, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and will take place at the Union County Performing Arts Center’s Hamilton Stage, located at 360 Hamilton Street in Rahway. The camp will host two casts, one for children ages 8 through 12 and a second for teens, ages 13 through 17.
“Watching students from diverse backgrounds and from different corners of Union County come together and put on a show they are so proud of and worked all summer for, is truly rewarding for us,” said Union County Commissioner Alexander Mirabella, Liaison to the Open Space, Recreation and Historic Preservation Trust Fund. “We want to thank UCPAC and Theatrical Artists’ Prep for their continued partnership that allows us to bring our youth this life-enriching program without putting a financial strain on their families.”
Applications are now open, and the deadline to apply is Friday, May 1, 2026. Interested families can learn program details and apply online at www.ucnj.org/summertheater or contact Angelica Cedeno at acedeno@ucnj.org for any questions.
Supporting required documentation can be uploaded to the online application, emailed to Angelica Cedeno at acedeno@ucnj.org or mailed to her attention at The Union County Administration Building, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza, 2nd floor, Elizabeth, New Jersey, 07207.
The Union County Performing Arts Center is supported in part by the Union County Board of County Commissioners. For more information visit www.ucpac.org. For more information about Theatrical Artists Prep visit www.theatricalartistsprep.com.
Bilingual Poll Workers Needed & Encouraged to Apply
Union County residents interested in assisting voters at polling locations on Election Day still have time to apply to become a poll worker. Poll workers earn $300 for the day, serving from 5:15 a.m. until at least 8:15 p.m., following the close of the polls. The Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.
Poll workers play a vital role in ensuring every eligible voter has the opportunity to exercise their constitutional right to vote. Serving as a poll worker is a meaningful way to participate in the democratic process and support your community.
Union County residents who are 16 years of age or older may apply. Residents who are 18 or older must be registered to vote. No prior experience is required; however, all new poll workers must attend a mandatory in-person training session.
Prospective poll workers may apply online or by submitting a paper application. To apply online, visit the Union County Board of Elections at www.ucnj.org/pollworker.
To request a paper application, call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4236 or email pollworker@ucnj.org.
In celebration of Women’s History Month and the nation’s 250th Anniversary, the Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, invites residents to attend a live speaking engagement titled “Union County Women of the American Revolution.”
The keynote speaker will be Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi, who will present “The Patriot Women of Elizabethtown and Vicinity,” a compelling exploration of the courageous women who used their intelligence, resourcefulness, and sacrifice to advance the cause of American independence.
“Women have always been central to the American story — even when history did not always center them,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph Bodek. “As we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, it is important that we highlight the women of Union County who played meaningful roles in shaping the course of American independence.”
The free event will take place on Thursday, March 19th at 12:30 p.m. in the Student Commons at Union College of Union County, NJ’s Cranford Campus, located at 1033 Springfield Avenue in Cranford.
While figures such as Abigail Adams are widely recognized, many local women — from all backgrounds — understood the importance of the American cause and stepped forward in ways both visible and behind the scenes. Rajoppi’s presentation will shed light on the patriot women of Elizabethtown and surrounding communities who contributed through strategy, courage, and personal sacrifice.
“It’s exciting to share the compelling stories of the women of Elizabethtown especially since it was their sacrifices, courage, and patriotism that was critical to the success of American’s independence,” Ms. Rajoppi said.
Rajoppi has served as Union County Clerk since 1996, administering election laws; recording, filing and preserving property documents; processing passport applications; swearing-in notaries public; issuing public oaths; and maintaining numerous other vital records and services. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Case Western Reserve University in 1970 and a Master of Public Administration from Seton Hall University in 1988.
Her distinguished public service career includes roles as Mayor of Springfield Township, Chairman of the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders, Assistant Secretary of State for New Jersey, and Registrar of Deeds and Mortgages for Union County. She has also lectured in political science and public administration at Rutgers University–New Brunswick and taught municipal clerks and local officials statewide.
Rajoppi is the author of the nationally award-winning book “Women in Office: Getting There and Staying There,” as well as “The Civil War in New Brunswick: The Brunswick Boys and the Great Rebellion.” She has received three national awards from the National Federation of Press Women and currently serves as President of the Union County Historical Society.
“National Women’s History Month is a time to recognize the achievements and resilience of women throughout our nation’s history — including those right here in Union County,” said Union County Commissioner Vice Chair Rebecca Williams, Liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Affairs Advisory Board. “This program not only honors the women of the Revolutionary era, but also reinforces our commitment to ensuring their stories are remembered and shared with future generations.”
National Women’s History Month is observed every March to celebrate the vital role women have played in shaping communities, states, and the nation.
This event is funded in part by a grant from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State’s Division of Cultural Affairs. The program is organized by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs and held in collaboration with Union College of Union County, NJ.
The presentation is free and open to all Union County residents. To register, visit ucnj.org/250.
America’s 250th
On July 4, 2026, the United States will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This historic milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we seek to build for generations to come.
