Category: Public Info

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce the 2019 “Union County Kids Dig In” garden grant program for schools in Union County. The program is designed to help schools provide enriching educational experiences while encouraging students to give back to the Union County community through donations of fresh produce.

Schools with students in grades pre-K through 12 are eligible to apply for a Union County Kids Dig In grant. The grants are funded through the Union County Open Space, Recreation and Historic Preservation Trust Fund.

“Union County Kids Dig In gives young people a chance at hands-on learning and service,” said Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski. “They learn about organic gardening, soil health, water conservation, and pollinators. Kids Dig In helps kids see how their actions really do make a difference.”

UC Kids Dig In began in 2017 as an initiative of Freeholder Sergio Granados, Chairman of the Trust Fund. Over the past two years, the program has provided funding for 92 school gardens.

“When children are introduced to gardening in the schools, it helps them begin to think holistically about their food, their schools, their larger communities and the health of the planet,” said Freeholder Granados. “UC Kids Dig In teaches kids about growing their own healthy food options and empowers them to help those in need, by donating 30% of their harvest to benefit local food pantries and shelters.” 

Grant application forms have been sent to school superintendents in all Union County school districts. The deadline for submissions is Monday, April 1 at 5:00 p.m.

Principals and educators who are interested in having their school apply for a grant can contact Victoria Durbin-Drake, Administrator, Office of the Union County Open Space, Recreation and Historic Preservation Trust Fund at vdurbin@ucnj.org or 908-558-2277.

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

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Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce that the next History Paint Night Social event will be held on Tuesday, March 26, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the historic Shady Rest Clubhouse at Scotch Hills Country Club, 820 Jerusalem Road in Scotch Plains.

The program is funded in part by a grant from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a Division of Cultural Affairs in the Department of State.

Participants will be provided with painting materials, and artistic instruction on a historical scene from the Union County area. Individuals and groups are invited to attend. No experience is necessary.

“We introduced History Paint Night Social as way for beginners and practiced artists alike to enjoy learning about Union County history in a relaxed, creative setting,” said Freeholder Chair Kowalski. “The response was very enthusiastic and we are happy to bring it back this year.”

“The Shady Rest Clubhouse has unique historical significance for Union County and our nation. It provides an enriching venue for an event that blends art and history,” Freeholder Chair Kowalski added.

The Shady Rest Golf and Country Club opened in 1921 as the first African American owned Country Club in the U.S. It operated as a private club from 1921 to 1938 during which time many iconic American musical artists including Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Sarah Vaughn and Ella Fitzgerald performed there.

The Club also hosted such notables as W.E.B. Du Bois, Althea Gibson and Joe Louis. It recently underwent a restoration as a center for the arts, education, history and social development in Scotch Plains.

The instructor for History Paint Night Social will be Elizabeth-based artist Dario Solis.

Pre-registration is encouraged due to limited space. The fee of $10.00 includes all materials. Participants may bring wine and snacks for their enjoyment.

To register or receive more information about History Paint Night, contact the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs at 908-436-2912, or email jprescott@ucnj.org.

For information on all Cultural and Heritage Affairs programs and events, visit online at ucnj.org.

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

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Union County Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski and Freeholders Christopher Hudak and Andrea Staten present a resolution to Union County Vocational-Technical School District Interim Superintendent Gwendolyn S. Ryan, FFA Advisor and UCVTS Instructor Bonnie Baldasare and FFA student members Beatriz Cruz and David Tohon designating the week of February 16, 2019 through February 23, 2019 as FFA Week in Union County. The National FFA Organization is an American 501 youth organization, specifically a career and technical student organization, based on middle and high school classes that promote and support agricultural education. (Photo by Jim Lowney/County of Union)

Union County Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski and Freeholders Christopher Hudak and Andrea Staten present a resolution to Union County Vocational-Technical School District Interim Superintendent Gwendolyn S. Ryan and UCVTS students and faculty designating February 2019 as National Career and Technical Education Month in Union County.

The 21st-century career and technical education programs at the Union County Vocational-Technical Schools link rigorous academics, technical knowledge and real-world experiences to help students develop workplace skills to better prepare them for college and challenging careers.

For more information about Union County Vocational-Technical Schools, visit www.ucvts.tec.nj.us.

Union County Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski, Vice Chairman Alexander Mirabella and Freeholder Rebecca Williams present resolutions to the 2019 Union County St. Patrick’s Day Parade Grand Marshal Sister Percylee Hart, RSM, General Chairwoman Jessica Cunningham and Parade Adjutant Kerry Ricci congratulating them on the 23^rd annual parade. The 2019 Union County St. Patrick’s Day Parade steps off at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 16 on Morris Avenue in Union.

For more information please visit www.unioncountystpatricksdayparade.com.

Elizabeth, NJ:  The Union County Board of Elections is actively seeking bilingual poll workers who are eager to help the community exercise their right to vote.

Poll workers are paid $200 to work from 5:15am to 8:15pm on Election Day and must be available to work both the June Primary Election and November General Election during the year.

Poll workers must be 18 years of age, a registered voter in and a resident of Union County.  Poll workers are required to attend a training seminar. 

If you are interested in serving or need more information, please call the Union County Board of Elections at 908-527-4123.

The application for appointment as a Union County Poll Worker is available for download on our website at ucnj.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Poll-Worker-Application.pdf.

For all Union County Board of Elections information visit online at ucnj.org/board-of-elections.

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

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Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce that summer pool manager and assistant manager positions are available at Union County’s public swimming pool, the Walter Ulrich Memorial Pool at Rahway River Park in Rahway.

“The managers of the Walter Ulrich Memorial Pool oversee the day to day operations as well as supervise approximately 50 employees and are an essential part of the successful summer season here in Union County,” said Freeholder Bette Jane Kowalski. “Employment at the county pool is a rewarding experience for employees in all positions.”

Union County residents possessing a degree from an accredited college or university who are interested in applying can contact the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation for details about hours, salary, certification and other eligibility requirements by calling 908-527-4824.

Training is available for applicants without certification. Anyone interested in a lifeguard position can call the Parks Department and find out more.

For more information about Ulrich Pool, Rahway River Park and all Union County recreation facilities visit online at ucnj.org/parks.

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

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Union County, NJ — The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has awarded $4,321,987 to the County from the federal Continuum of Care program. The funding will support 19 service projects to help the homeless.

“The Continuum of Care program helps individuals and families find housing and face other challenges, including the cost of health care, education, and support services,” said Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski. “This federal funding is an essential resource that provides our at-risk residents with tools and support for a stable home environment.”

According to the Annual Homeless Assessment Report, last year more than 1,000 individuals reported being homeless for the first time in Union County.

Another indicator of homelessness in Union County is the annual Point-in-Time survey, a national “snapshot” coordinated through HUD. The survey is conducted over a 24-hour period each January. In 2018, the survey identified more than 459 individuals as homeless in Union County, including 153 children.

Union County’s Code Blue night-time winter shelter initiative also provides a window into homelessness in Union County. During the winter of 2017-2018, the Code Blue initiative recorded 3,132 people in shelters who would otherwise face below-freezing weather on the streets. The total included 532 children.

The 19 service projects funded through HUD include permanent and transitional housing as well as support services to help homeless individuals and families obtain and maintain stable housing and independence, such as job training, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment.

Freeholder Chair Kowalski also noted that Union County competes for federal funding against other agencies across the country.

“Our ability to present a successful case before HUD stems from the strong, collaborative relationships we have forged with our local partners,” she said.

Each year, Union County’s Department of Human Services works with community partners to submit a joint application to HUD.

The partners included in the 2019 funding are Bridgeway Rehabilitation Services, Inc., Community Access Institute, Community Access Unlimited, Covenant House New Jersey, Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless, The Gateway Family YMCA, Homefirst Interfaith Housing and Family Services, Housing Authority of the City of Elizabeth, Housing Authority of Plainfield, YWCA of Union County, and the Union County Department of Human Services.

For information about all services available through the Union County Department of Human Services visit ucnj.org/human-services.

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

Connect with Union County on social media.

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders invites residents to two upcoming Sensory Friendly Theatre events at the Union County Performing Arts Center in Rahway. The Sensory Friendly series, sponsored by the Freeholder Board, showcases exciting live performances in an environment tailored to audiences with autism and other sensory sensitivities.

“Sensory Friendly Theater provides an opportunity for children and their families to enjoy the enriching experience of live performances in a beautiful theatre, while providing a relaxed, judgement-free environment,” said Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski.

The next performance in the Sensory Friendly Theatre series is the beloved ballet classic Sleeping Beauty, performed by the New Jersey Ballet Company on Saturday, March 23 at 2:00 p.m.

Since 1958, the New Jersey Ballet Company has brought the joy and beauty of dance to audiences throughout New Jersey. It is designated a Major Arts Institution by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.

On Sunday, April 28 at 2:00 p.m., Sensory Friendly Theatre presents the Theatreworks USA production of Henry and Mudge, a musical based on Cynthia Rylant’s bestselling books about a small boy and his big dog.

The Sensory Friendly Theatre series began as an initiative of Freeholder Alexander Mirabella when he served as Chairman in 2012. It is designed according to guidelines that help reduce disturbances for youngsters who experience heightened sensory sensitivity. It has been supported by the Freeholder Board every year since then.

For each of the Sensory Friendly performances, the environment at the Union County Performing Arts Center is adjusted to provide a sensory-friendly, comfortable and judgment-free space that is welcoming for all families.

Autism Friendly Spaces implements the supportive atmosphere at the performances. For more information on what to expect at Sensory Friendly Theatre visit ucpac.org/sensory-friendly-theatre.

All tickets for are $8.00 per person and can be purchased through the Union County Performing Arts Center at ucpac.org or by calling the box office at 732-499-8226.

The Union County Performing Arts Center and box office are located at 1601 Irving Street in Rahway.

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

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Union County, NJ – As winter’s chill gives way to blustery spring weather, Union County residents and visitors can enjoy indoor and outdoor activities at the Trailside Nature and Science Center, located in the Watchung Reservation.

Special programs for toddlers and preschool children continue each week throughout March, along with programs for school-age children.

“With the Watchung Reservation as a backdrop, Trailside helps raise awareness of our natural heritage through hands-on learning, exploration, and creativity,” said Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski. “Generations of Union County residents have grown up with Trailside, and the Freeholder Board is proud to support this unique educational resource.”

• For toddlers and children up to age three (with adult), Trailside offers the Toddler Time series on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday mornings.
• Preschool children ages three and four (with adult) are invited to join the Two of Us series on Tuesday mornings and Wednesday afternoons.
• Small Fry Days on Wednesday mornings is a drop-off series tailored for children ages four to six.

Upcoming topics for Toddler Time, Two of Us, and Small Fry Days include animal survival tricks, rainforests, owls, and more. All three programs feature hands-on exploration, crafts and other fun activities tailored for different age groups.

Older children ages 7-10 can explore life under ice, animal tracking, and winter birding activities through the new Kids Exploration series on Saturday mornings.

For complete details including hours and participation fees, visit Trailside online and view the Winter 2019 brochure.

Registration for Trailside’s summer camps begins on March 2. Register online at ucnj.org/trailside. In-person registration is welcome at the Trailside Visitor Center on March 2 from 9:00 a.m. to – 4:00 p.m. Cash and credit cards are accepted. Out-of-county residents may register online or in person beginning Monday, March 4 at 9:00 a.m. For complete details view the Summer 2019 brochure online.

For more details and pre-registration information for all Trailside programs, visit online at ucnj.org/trailside, call 908-789-3670 or email trailside@ucnj.org.

Trailside Nature and Science Center is located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside and is a service of the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders.

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

Connect with Union County on social media.