Category: Public Info

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites seniors and caregivers to the upcoming Aging Services Kiosk (ASK) events in October to explore the wide range of senior programs and resources available. These events allow attendees to meet face-to-face with experienced professionals who can provide expert guidance and assistance with a variety of services, including form completion. Bilingual staff will be available on several dates in October to provide support in Spanish.

“Our senior population is as vital to this community as they are to their families,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “That’s why it’s important to us to ensure they remain as safe, healthy, and joyful as possible. The ASK program addresses several challenges that seniors face, including food insecurity, transportation issues, respite care, language barriers – even loneliness. We encourage seniors and caregivers to attend an ASK event this month and take full advantage of the support that is available to them.”

The Aging Services Kiosk is operated explicitly by the Division on Aging, a branch of the Union County Department of Human Services. It offers adults aged 60 and older, along with their caregivers, a friendly and convenient avenue to discover valuable programs and services and speak individually with a Division on Aging professional.

Staff at ASK locations can help older adults and caregivers connect with various services, including home-delivered meals, respite care, home care, adult day care, and support services for caregivers. Any Union County senior or caregiver can visit any ASK kiosk, regardless of their hometown. No appointment or pre-registration is needed. Below are the upcoming ASK events in October:

Tuesday, October 7th
Westfield Memorial Library
550 East Broad Street, Westfield
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tuesday, October 14th
(Bilingual staff available)
Hillside Public Library
1409 Liberty Avenue, Hillside
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Wednesday, October 22nd
(Bilingual staff available)
Union Public Library
1980 Morris Avenue, Union
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Thursday, October 30th
Clark Public Library
303 Westfield Avenue, Clark
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

“Our Division on Aging has worked tirelessly to enhance the quality of life for our senior community through the ASK services and various other programs. More importantly, the bright individuals who run these programs are constantly seeking new ways to improve on the services offered, tailoring them to the specific needs of this community,” said Union County Commissioner and Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging, James Baker. “Visit Union County’s Division on Aging website for more information on these useful services.”
 
For more information about the ASK events and any other services for seniors in Union County, contact the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection at 1-888-280-8226 toll-free or visit online at ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to join in a day of music, culture, and recognition as part of Hispanic Heritage Month, themed “Defining | Culture and Influence.” The annual Family Fun Day returns to Warinanco Park in Roselle on Saturday, October 4th, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., bringing families together for an afternoon filled with celebration, community pride, and the presentation of the 2025 Hispanic Heritage Awards.

“Family Fun Day is a celebration that brings our entire community together,” said Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “As a Cuban-American and the first Latina to serve on this Board, I know how powerful it is to see our culture reflected in public spaces, shared with neighbors of every background. It’s about joy, music, food, and family — and it’s also about honoring those who are shaping a stronger future for Union County. This day reminds us that when we celebrate our heritage, we celebrate the unity and progress of our whole community.”

This free event will feature live cultural performances, music, arts and crafts, inflatable activities, a photo booth, and community organizations offering resources and giveaways. Latin-inspired food trucks will also be on site, with free vouchers distributed while supplies last.

“For me, this celebration is deeply personal,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados. “My family’s journey from El Salvador to Union County taught me the value of resilience, opportunity, and community. Family Fun Day captures all of that — a space where families can enjoy themselves while we also lift up the residents, leaders and organizations who make a lasting difference. This event is proof that our heritage is alive not only in the traditions we share, but in the commitments we make to each other every day.”

The highlight of the day will be the Hispanic Heritage Awards Ceremony, honoring leaders whose contributions have left a mark on Union County and beyond, including:

Assemblywoman Annette Quijano, New Jersey’s 20th Legislative District — The Angel Estrada Community Leadership Award. Assemblywoman Quijano has represented the 20th District since 2008, becoming the first woman and Latina to serve as Speaker Pro Tempore in the General Assembly. A lifelong champion for working families, she has led landmark legislation on paid family leave, wage theft protections, cannabis legalization and expungement, and gun safety, while also advancing LGBTQ equality, animal rights, and protections for vulnerable communities. Known for her hands-on commitment to residents, she continues to fight for social, racial, and economic equity

Norlandy A. Aguirre, Owner, Norlandy’s Beauty Salon & Facial — Community Advocacy Award. Norlandy Aguirre Lizcano is a renowned Colombian stylist and cosmetologist with more than 40 years of experience. He founded Norlandy’s Beauty Salon & Spa in Elizabeth, NJ, earning international awards and recognition for excellence in beauty and customer care. Beyond his professional success, he has been a dedicated advocate for the Latin community both in the United States and Colombia, currently serving as Social Manager in La Celia, Risaralda, Colombia. His leadership and service continue to inspire and uplift those around him.

Flor Gonzalez, President, Latin American Coalition — Trailblazer Award. Flor M. Gonzalez is a trailblazing community leader and the first Hispanic Certified Housing Commissioner in the United States. For decades, she has dedicated her life to public service, housing development, and advocacy, making a profound impact across Union County and beyond. As President of the Latin American Coalition since 1995, she has spearheaded programs in ESL, American history, citizenship training, and community assistance, helping countless families find their footing and thrive. She currently serves as Chairperson of the Plainfield Advisory Commission for Hispanic Affairs and co-chair of the Union County Human Relations Commission, continuing her tireless work to empower underserved communities, support youth and families, and strengthen civic participation. Her leadership has earned numerous awards, including the Union County Woman of Excellence Award, Outstanding Community Leadership honors from the New Jersey Senate and Assembly, and recognition from national organizations for her commitment to advocacy and progress.

Neighborhood Preservation Program (NPP) Colombian District — Business Leadership Award. Accepted by Mariver Arcure, this award recognizes the NPP’s ongoing efforts to strengthen and revitalize Elizabeth’s Colombian District. Administered by the NJ Department of Community Affairs in partnership with the City of Elizabeth, the program supports small businesses, improves public spaces, and preserves cultural and economic identity. With a five-year grant, NPP is helping create a vibrant, inclusive, and economically resilient neighborhood that reflects the pride and potential of its residents

The event highlights Union County’s commitment to celebrating cultural diversity and honoring those who contribute to its growth.

Hispanic Heritage Month runs annually from September 15 through October 15, with events and programs across the county highlighting the rich traditions and lasting impact of the Latino community.

For a full schedule of Union County Hispanic Heritage Month events, visit www.ucnj.org/hhm.

In celebration of World Space Week, the Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to visit Trailside Nature and Science Center in Mountainside for an engaging Space Day adventure, featuring a variety of special programs, crafts, and activities designed for children ages six and older. The event will take place on Saturday, October 4th, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

“Fall is a wonderful time to get outside and enjoy the changing seasons with family and friends. Trailside’s special Space Day programming will be a day that is out of this world, and filled with extraordinary activities that the whole family will love,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “I encourage everyone who enjoys having fun and learning about the wonders of the universe to visit Trailside during this event.”

The Space Day programming will include:

11:00 A.M.  – Space Explorer Laser Light Show – Experience dazzling laser animations set to popular music, exploring the structure of the solar system and the ways lasers enhance our understanding of the universe. All participants will receive a glow bracelet before the show.

12:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M.  – Solar Viewing – weather permitting, visitors will have the opportunity to join members of the Amateur Astronomers, Inc. for a special solar viewing in front of the Trailside Visitor Center.

1:30 P.M. – Life on the Space Station – Speaker Paul Cirillo will lead this engaging discussion about outer space, showcasing the latest astronomical images from observatories both on and off the Earth. Paul is a member of the NJ Astronomical Association, which operates the largest public observatory in New Jersey. He is also a volunteer outreach “ambassador” for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. His easy style of communication allows a diverse audience to better understand the wonders of the universe.

2:30 P.M. – Guided Walk on the Solar System Trail – Participants will embark on a half-mile walk, where each step represents a million miles in space, and enhance their understanding of our solar system using audio guides.

Guests are welcome to visit the front lobby for free crafts and giveaways with a space theme. A modest fee will apply to some programs, and pre-registration is required. To register or for more information, please visit ucnj.org/trailside.

In addition to Space Day, Trailside’s Fall Workshop Series will continue throughout the fall season, running from October 2nd through December 6th, and will offer nature-themed classes for toddlers, families, adults, and seniors. These include Toddler Time sessions, an Adult Wellness Series, and a Senior Nature Walk series.

The Toddler Time series, for adults with children aged three and under, meets on Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. and Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. for two sessions. Young visitors can have fun while learning about our Ring-tailed Rascals, Minibeasts, Nocturnal Neighbors, Fall Leaves, Turkeys and Snakes & Turtles to name a few.

The Adult Wellness Series, for adults 18 & up, runs throughout the fall season. Workshops include Acrylic Painting with a nature theme, Sound Bowls sessions that surround the participant with the healing vibrations of sound and energy, and Forest Bathing Nature Walks, where adults can experience the Japanese practice, “Shinrin-yoku,” and immerse themselves in nature to quiet their minds and relieve stress.

The Senior Nature Walk series, for participants ages 55 and older, meets on Fridays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. These guided walks, led by a Trailside naturalist, highlight a different topic each week. Themes include Solar System Walk, Migratory Bird Walk at Oak Ridge Park, Autumn Tree I.D., History of the Deserted Village, Lenape Native Americans, and Owls of New Jersey.

Union County’s annual Mineral, Gem & Jewelry Show returns to Trailside on November 8th & 9th from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  The NJ Mineralogical Society and Trailside partner up for a great weekend event. The event is a great opportunity for visitors to shop for minerals, jewelry, fossils, and gemstones from around the world, and purchase unique holiday gifts. Additionally, there will be activities for children. Admission to this event is free.

For more details on Space Day and all events featured in Trailside’s Fall Workshop series, please visit ucnj.org/trailside or call 908-789-3670.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to participate in National Seat Check Saturday on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Garwood First Aid Squad, 401 2nd Avenue in Garwood. Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians from the Union County Department of Public Safety will be on hand to provide free car seat inspections and hands-on instruction to parents and caregivers. No appointment is necessary.

“Car seats and booster seats save lives, but only if they are used correctly,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Through programs like National Seat Check Saturday and our weekly inspection center, Union County gives parents and caregivers the peace of mind that their children are safe on the road.”

In addition to the National Seat Check Saturday event, Union County’s Child Safety Seat Inspection Program is available year-round at the Garwood First Aid Squad. Inspections are offered every Wednesday and Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., and no appointment is required. According to the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety, nearly half of all child safety seats are installed or used incorrectly, while properly used car seats and boosters significantly reduce the risk of serious injury in the event of a crash.

Under New Jersey law, children under age 2 and weighing less than 30 pounds must be secured in a rear-facing seat with a five-point harness. Children under age 4 and weighing less than 40 pounds must remain in a rear- or forward-facing seat with a five-point harness until they outgrow it. Children under age 8 and less than 57 inches tall must be secured in a forward-facing seat with a harness or in a booster seat. Once a child reaches age 8 or 57 inches in height, they may use a properly fitted seat belt. It is also recommended that children under age 13 ride in the back seat. Violations of the law carry fines between $50 and $75.

Caregivers are reminded that all car seats and boosters have expiration dates. A manufacturer’s label on the back or bottom of the seat provides the date of manufacture and/or expiration date, and expired seats should not be used as they may compromise safety.

The Child Safety Seat Inspection Program was first launched in 1999 and is a partnership between the Union County Board of County Commissioners, the Union County Police Department, the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety, and the Garwood First Aid Squad.

For more information about the Safety Seat Inspection Program and other services visit online at ucnj.org/childseats or contact Christine Marcantonio, Traffic Safety Program Coordinator, by email at cmarcantonio@ucnj.org or by phone at 908-789-6830.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the return of the popular Haunted Hayrides at the Deserted Village of Feltville in the Watchung Reservation. The hayrides will take place on Friday, October 24 through Sunday, October 26, 2025, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. A rain date is scheduled for Monday, October 27.

“The Haunted Hayrides bring the Deserted Village to life in a way you can only experience once a year,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Its history, the stories, the setting, and the energy of the Village at night make this event something you don’t want to miss.”

Participants will board a hay wagon alongside David Felt, the New York businessman who built Feltville in 1845. As the wagon moves through the fields and forest under the cover of darkness, and then into the Village itself, Mr. Felt will recount stories of tragedy and mystery that occurred in the area now known as the Watchung Reservation. The tales are told so vividly that history seems to come alive.

The journey culminates with a stop at the Village cemetery, dating back to the 1700s, where a chilling story is told that is certain to stir the imagination — and perhaps even the spirits.

This program is recommended for children age 6 and older, and strollers cannot be accommodated. Each ride departs every half hour and the full experience lasts about one hour, including both a hayride and a walking portion through the darkened forest. Participants are encouraged to dress warmly, wear sturdy walking shoes, and bring a flashlight.

Tickets must be purchased in advance for a specific date and time at www.ucnj.org/ticket. No tickets will be sold on-site during the event, and space is limited — early purchase is strongly recommended as the Haunted Hayrides regularly sell out.

The Haunted Hayrides are hosted by the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation, Division of Park Environmental Services, and have become one of Union County’s most anticipated fall traditions, drawing visitors of all ages to experience history with a Halloween twist.

For more information please call the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at 908-527-4900.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the final mobile paper shredding and household hazardous waste events of the 2025 season, along with continued opportunities for scrap metal recycling through October. These programs are offered free of charge to all Union County residents.

“As we close out this year’s recycling events, I want to thank our residents for continuing to step up and do their part,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Every time you bring documents to shred or safely dispose of household chemicals, you’re helping protect our neighborhoods, our environment, and future generations. These programs only succeed because of your participation, and I encourage everyone to take advantage of these final opportunities in October.”

Residents are encouraged to securely shred personal documents at the final paper shredding event of the year, taking place on Saturday, October 18th, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Berkeley Heights Municipal Building Parking Lot, located at 29 Park Avenue in Berkeley Heights. All documents are shredded on-site, and the shredded paper is taken to a recycling facility for processing. The event will conclude before 1:00 p.m., should the trucks fill up first.

This event concludes the County’s 2025 mobile paper shredding season, which runs annually from March through October. The shredding events are open to all residents, regardless of their municipality, and are intended for the disposal of personal and sensitive documents only. Residents can recycle magazines, junk mail, and other papers through their municipal recycling program. Please remove all bindings, large plastic or metal clips, and other paraphernalia before the event (staples are allowed). Pre-shredded, damp, or wet paper will not be accepted.

Union County will hold its final Household Hazardous Waste event of the year on Sunday, October 26th, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Union County Vo-Tech in the West Hall/Police Academy Lot, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains. At these events, residents can bring a variety of household chemicals for proper recycling or disposal. These items include, but are not limited to, oil-based finishes, motor oil, gasoline, propane tanks, pool chemicals, pesticides, fluorescent lightbulbs, and more. Latex (water-based) paint will not be accepted, and residents are advised to dry latex paint out at home using commercial paint hardener, sand, kitty litter, or sawdust. Once hardened, it can be thrown in your household trash. Please note that we will no longer accept fireworks at these events. However, ammunition will still be accepted by Union County Police on-site.

Union County’s Scrap Metal Recycling Program also continues through October, with the next drop-off event to be held on Saturday, October 18th, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at two convenient locations:

• Cranford: Emergency Services Building, 151 Kenilworth Boulevard
• Rahway: Rahway River Park (follow Park Drive, Rahway off St. George’s Avenue to service yard across from swimming pool)

Accepted items include refrigerators (with doors removed), metal cabinets, appliances, bicycles, aluminum scrap, air conditioners, and other metal household goods. The scrap metal program runs on the first Thursday and third Saturday of each month, April through November. Please note that there will be no event on October 2nd (the First Thursday of the month) due to the Yom Kippur holiday.

All Union County recycling events are contact-free and drive-up only. Residents must remain in their cars while staff unloads materials from their trunks. Union County Recycling Programs are funded through Recycling Enhancement Act (REA) funds, which are applied for and received by the County of Union.

For a complete schedule and more information on all recycling programs hosted by Union County, please visit ucnj.org/recycle/ or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889. Residents may also contact their municipal recycling coordinator for more details about recycling in their community.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites the public to tour the historic sites of Union County during “Four Centuries in a Weekend” on Saturday, October 18th, and Sunday, October 19th, from 12:00 noon to 5:00 pm. All admission is free during this annual celebration of local history. More than 30 historic sites will be open to the public, with guided tours of the historic sites, along with special exhibits, hands-on activities, and more. This year’s event marks the lead-up to the forthcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of our nation in 2026.

“For one weekend in autumn, Union County’s rich history comes to life like never before, offering a historical charm that every resident should experience,” said Union County Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Our ‘Four Centuries in a Weekend’ event is not just a celebration; it’s an opportunity for residents to connect with this rich heritage. Each site will tell a fascinating story that is woven into the fabric of this community. I welcome everyone to join us on this enchanting and eye-opening journey through time.”

All sites offer the Union County Passport, which can be stamped at each site visited. Additionally, several sites within the National Park Service’s Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area offer an extra unique stamp for the Passport to Your National Parks book.

The sites also provide collectible Union County History Trading Cards, which commemorate notable people, places, and events in the history of Union County. In total, more than 80 Trading Cards are available.

Unless noted otherwise, sites will be open Saturday, Oct. 18th, and Sunday, Oct. 19th, from 12:00 noon to 5:00 pm. The participating sites for Four Centuries in a Weekend are as follows:

Berkeley Heights
Deserted Village of Feltville / Glenside Park
1 Cataract Hollow Rd., Berkeley Heights
Littell-Lord Farmstead*
31 Horseshoe Rd., Berkeley Heights
*Open Saturday only | Closed Sunday

Clark
Dr. William Robinson Plantation Museum
593 Madison Hill Rd., Clark

Cranford
Crane-Phillips House Museum
124 North Union Ave., Cranford
William Miller Sperry Observatory
Union College, 1033 Springfield Ave., Cranford

Elizabeth
Belcher-Ogden Mansion & Bonnell Homestead
1046 East Jersey St., Elizabeth
Boxwood Hall State Historic Site
1073 E. Jersey St., Elizabeth Elizabeth Public Library*
11 S. Broad St., Elizabeth
*Open Saturday only | Closed Sunday
Siloam-Hope First Presbyterian Church & Snyder Academy
42 Broad St., Elizabeth

Fanwood
Fanwood Train Station Museum
230 North Ave., Fanwood

Hillside
Woodruff House, Eaton Store Museum & Phil Rizzuto All Sports Exhibit
111 Conant St., Hillside
Evergreen Cemetery
1137 North Broad St., Hillside

Kenilworth
Oswald J. Nitschke House
49 South 21 St., Kenilworth

Mountainside
Deacon Andrew Hetfield House
Constitution Plaza, Watchung Ave., Mountainside

New Providence
Salt Box Museum
1350 Springfield Ave., New Providence

Plainfield
Drake House Museum
602 West Front St., Plainfield
duCret Center of Art
1030 Central Ave., Plainfield
Friends (Quaker) Meeting House*
225 Watchung Ave., Plainfield
*Open Saturday only | Closed Sunday.

Rahway
African-American History & Heritage Learning Center*
261 Central Ave., Rahway
*Open Saturday only | Closed Sunday Merchants & Drovers Tavern Museum 1632 St. George Ave., Rahway (corner of Westfield Ave.) Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC)*
1601 Irving St., Rahway
*Open Saturday only | Closed Sunday

Roselle
Abraham Clark House
101 W. 9th Ave., Roselle

Scotch Plains
Frazee House
1451 Raritan Rd., Scotch Plains
Osborn Cannonball House Museum
1840 Front St., Scotch Plains
Shady Rest Country Club
820 Jerusalem Rd., Scotch Plains

Springfield
Cannon Ball House
126 Morris Ave., Springfield

Summit
Carter House
90 Butler Parkway, Summit
Reeves-Reed Arboretum*
165 Hobart Ave., Summit
*Open Saturday only, 10 am–4 pm | Closed Sunday.
Twin Maples
214 Springfield Ave., Summit
Wallace Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church
138-142 Broad St., Summit

Union
Caldwell Parsonage
909 Caldwell Ave., Union
Connecticut Farms Church
888 Stuyvesant Ave., Union
Donald M. Payne Vauxhall Meeting Center*
333 Russell St., Union (Vauxhall)
*Open Sunday only | Closed Saturday
Liberty Hall Museum
1003 Morris Ave., Union

Westfield
Burial Grounds at Presbyterian Church*
137 Mountain Ave., Westfield
*Saturday 10 am–dusk | Sunday 12 noon–5 pm
Miller-Cory House Museum
614 Mountain Ave., Westfield
Reeve History & Cultural Resource Center
314 Mountain Ave., Westfield

“Four Centuries in a Weekend has become a cherished tradition that connects generations with the past while creating new memories today,” said Union County Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Union County Cultural and Heritage Advisory Board. “Whether you are a history enthusiast or a newcomer, the event offers an opportunity for everyone to connect with our local history, ask questions, and explore the richness of our county’s beginnings.”

Four Centuries in a Weekend is funded in part by a grant from the New Jersey Historical Commission, part of the Division of Cultural Affairs in the Department of State, and is organized by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, in collaboration with staff and volunteers at the sites and is sponsored by the Union County Board of County Commissioners.

For locations, hours, special events, and other details about all historical sites participating in Four Centuries in a Weekend this year, visit the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs ucnj.org/parks-recreation/cultural-heritage-affairs, www.ucnj.org/4c or call (908) 558-2550.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that vote-by-mail ballots for the General Election on November 4^th will be mailed out, beginning on Friday, September 19^th and continuing through the week of September 22^nd.

Ballots will be sent in alphabetical order by town name, which will be noted on the Clerk’s website, as well as the Union County Votes app. Clerk Rajoppi advises voters to look for an oversized bright yellow envelope in their mail, which contains their ballot.

“I urge voters to open their ballot when they receive it,” Clerk Rajoppi said, “Vote it and return it, either putting it in the mail or a secure election drop box. All ballots received are secured until they are read on election day,” she added.

For more information about mail-in ballots, early voting, or election deadlines, visit www.unioncountyvotes.com or contact the office at 908-527-4996 or email ucvote@ucnj.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is honored to extend an invitation to the annual POW/MIA Remembrance Day flag raising on September 19^th at 11:00am on the steps of the Union County Courthouse, 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth.

“POW/MIA Remembrance Day is a powerful reminder of the bravery of the heroes who never came home,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “It’s a day to honor their courage and recognize the loved ones who still wait with hope. By honoring them, we show that their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

Union County Manager Edward Oatman will begin the ceremony with an introduction, and Chairwoman Leon will serve as the Master of Ceremonies. The Presentation of Colors will be led by the Honor Guard from the Union County Sheriff’s Department, Union County Prosecutor’s Office, Elizabeth Police Department and Elizabeth Fire Department. Union County Commander, VFW Bobby Jeans will give the invocation, and the Pledge of Allegiance will be led by Union County Sheriff Peter Corvelli.

The Missing Man Table ceremony, led by Union County Commissioner Vice Chairman Joseph Bodek, honors the brave men and women who never returned home, reminding us they are with us in spirit. Each item on the table holds meaning: the round table shows never-ending concern, the white cloth their pure motives, the rose and ribbon our love and determination, the lemon and salt their bitter fate and tears, the candle and Bible our hope and faith, the inverted glass their absence, and the empty chair the seat that remains unclaimed. It is a solemn reminder that America will never forget those still missing.

“Seeing this ceremony in person is something I urge everyone to witness,” said Union County Commissioner Alexander Mirabella, Liaison to the Veterans Affairs Committee. “We all share the responsibility to remember our veterans and the sacrifices they made.”

The ceremony will conclude with a rifle salute, TAPS, and a rendition of “God Bless America” by Thomas Jefferson Arts Academy student Vanessa Cardoza.

For more information on POW/MIA Remembrance Day, please call Geoff Smith with the Office of Veteran’s Services at 908-527-4918.