The Union County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce that beginning Thursday, May 15th, Farmers Market vouchers will be available for eligible Union County seniors. Each eligible senior can obtain a $40 e-benefit card to purchase “Jersey Fresh” fruits, vegetables, and herbs at participating Farmers Markets.
“Challenges like fixed incomes, limited resources, and rising costs can impact our senior community’s ability to access quality, nutritious food. Through this program, we aim to ensure fresh, nutrient-rich foods sourced from our local farmers are available to those in need,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “I encourage all seniors who meet the requirements to take advantage of this opportunity and apply.”
To be eligible, seniors must be 60 years of age or older. A single person’s monthly income may not exceed $2,413 per month, and a married couple’s combined income may not exceed $3,261 per month.
Eligible seniors can apply by calling the Union County Division on Aging at 908-527-4870 or 888-280-8226, weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on or after May 15, 2025. A limited number of vouchers are available, and applications will be evaluated on a “first-come, first-served” basis.
“Our Farmers Markets not only offer a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, but also serve as a popular gathering place for our community. This voucher program gives our seniors an easy and convenient way to socialize and engage with their community while accessing healthy food and supporting local agriculture,” said Union County Commissioner James Baker, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging.
For more information about the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, or any other senior services provided by the Division on Aging and Disability Resource in the Union County Department of Human Services, call 1-888-280-8226 toll-free or visit online atucnj.org/dhs/aging.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly presents a collection of artworks from local artists in celebration of Haitian Heritage Month at the Commissioner’s Gallery. The gallery is located on the 6th floor of the Union County Administration Building, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza in Elizabeth. The exhibit is free and open to the public Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., throughout the entire month of May.
“One of the aspects that makes Union County so special is our culturally diverse community; it is truly one of a kind. This May, we are bringing residents the opportunity to see in person the passion and creativity displayed by these talented artists, who have brilliantly captured the spirit and vibrancy of Haitian culture,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “We hope you join us in celebrating and learning more about the rich art, history, and culture of Haiti, as we bring light to the important role the Haitian community has played in shaping ours today.”
This exhibit is part of a larger Countywide celebration of Haitian Heritage Month, which includes a flag raising that will take place on Friday, May 2nd, at 12:00 p.m. on the front steps of the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth.
Included in the exhibit are Tamar Antoine, Roberto Benoit, Steven Darius, Hans Lundy, and Haenley Pierre. The collection of artworks on display includes digital collage, painting, photography, written word, and 3D design.
Tamar Antoine was born in Canada and proudly carries her Haitian heritage. During her young adult years, she discovered a deep passion for self-expression and began to step into her voice. It was during this formative time that she also uncovered her love for writing. Rooted in culture and fueled by creativity, Tamar’s journey as a writer and poet reflects her cultural pride, personal growth, and the transformative power of finding and embracing one’s voice.
Roberto Benoit is a creative artist whose work blends passion, social justice, and storytelling. From an early age, he was drawn to the world of visual art through cartoons and multimedia, while his father, a social worker, instilled in him a deep commitment to community service. Skilled in photography, videography, and design, Roberto’s art merges these talents with his focus on social justice. Using digital collage, he creates vibrant, imaginative worlds that amplify the voices of marginalized communities and offer a hopeful perspective.
Steven “Stevo” Darius is a photographer turned 3D artist. What began as simply taking pictures has evolved into a mastery of 3D animation, allowing him to craft realities from the depths of his imagination. His art is about creating moments that could only exist in dreams.
Hans Lundy was born in Port-au Prince, Haiti and his family came to the United States of America in 1999. He trained and was mentored by the post-modern figurative artist Williams Coronado. After years of perfecting his painting style and finding his voice using the media, He has ventured out into murals and learning mural, graffiti techniques, theories and applied it into his work.
Haenley Pierre is a 1st-generation Haitian-American artist. Haenley works in a variety of different art forms, but is mainly an oil painter and a digital illustrator. Haenley believes artwork is a medium that can be used to communicate a myriad of concepts, one of which is highlighting human consciousness and condition through art advocacy. She’s a keen advocate for representation and expanding the presence of POC in art. As a contemporary artist, her work is heavily influenced by her Haitian-American culture and present-day social justice issues.
“As we prepare to celebrate our second Haitian Heritage Month, we are excited to showcase even more local artists this year, bringing new voices and perspectives of the Haitian experience to Union County,” said Union County Commissioner Michèle S. Delisfort. “As a public servant of Haitian descent, I am proud to be on the side of history that is creating new traditions that recognize Haitian and Haitian Americans’ stories, experiences, and cultural influences, and how they are interwoven with the foundation of this great community.”
The Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, part of the Department of Parks and Recreation, coordinates the exhibits displayed at the Commissioners Gallery. For further information about this and other programs and services related to the arts and history in Union County, contact the Office at 633 Pearl Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202; telephone (908) 558-2550; or e-mail: culturalinfo@ucnj.org. NJ relay users dial 711.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners welcomes seniors and caregivers to the upcoming Aging Services Kiosk (ASK) events in May 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 offer expert guidance and assistance with a variety of services, including form completion. Bilingual staff will be available on several dates in May to provide support in Spanish.
“At our ‘ASK’ events, seniors and caregivers have the opportunity to meet with our knowledgeable staff who are happy to answer their questions, connect them with resources, and provide support and guidance as they navigate the next chapter of their lives,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “I encourage all interested seniors to attend the next ‘ASK’ event to learn more about this useful program and how it can benefit 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 May:
Wednesday, May 7th
Clark Public Library
303 Westfield Avenue, Clark
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Wednesday, May 14th
(Bilingual staff available)
Elizabeth Public Library – Main
11 South Broad St., Elizabeth
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Tuesday, May 20th
(Bilingual staff available)
Westfield Memorial Library
550 East Broad Street
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Thursday, May 29th
Garwood Public Library
411 Third Avenue, Garwood
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Friday, May 30th
(Bilingual staff available)
Hillside Public Library
1409 Liberty Avenue, Hillside
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
“Our Division on Aging remains committed to improving the quality of life of our seniors. The Commissioner Board is proud to continue collaborating in this initiative that addresses the unique needs and challenges faced by our older residents, ensuring they receive all of the support and care they deserve,” said Union County Commissioner James Baker, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging.
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 atucnj.org/dhs/aging.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the second annual Haitian flag-raising ceremony. This ceremony will take place on Friday, May 2nd 12:00pm on the steps of the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth.
“Raising the Haitian flag here in Union County is a celebration of unity and pride,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “As we gather for the second year, we are building a tradition that honors the Haitian community’s rich history, and reminds all of us that our diversity is our greatest strength. This is what community looks like, and I am proud to be part of it.”
The ceremony will begin with opening remarks from Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon, followed by a performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” by Edess Damis, a Union County native of Haitian heritage and a host on UnionTV. Damis will also sing “La Dessalinienne,” the National Anthem of Haiti, as the Haitian flag is raised. An invocation will be given by reverend Moise “Mo” Paul, Pastor at Outreach Evangelism Ministries Church in Elizabeth. Remarks will be given by Commissioner Michèle Delisfort, Commissioner Sergio Granados, and Marline Edmond, the Chair of the Haitian Flag Day Planning Committee of NJ.
“As a Union County Commissioner, I am proud to celebrate Haitian Flag Day, a symbol of resilience, unity, and pride for the Haitian community,” said Union County Commissioner Michèle Delisfort. “In times where immigration has become a focal point of national discourse, it’s vital that we recognize and honor the contributions of Haitian immigrants, who have enriched our community with their culture, strength, and unwavering spirit. Let us come together to celebrate this significant day, acknowledging the rich heritage that shapes our diverse community.”
The following municipalities are planning their own Haitian flag raising events—be sure to reach out to them directly for more details:
• Tuesday, May 13 – Plainfield
• Thursday, May 14 – Union
• Friday, May 16 – Roselle
• Sunday, May 18 – Linden
• Monday, May 19 – Hillside
• Saturday, May 24 – Elizabeth
• Tuesday, May 27 – Rahway
In honor of Haitian Heritage Month, The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to present a collection of artworks from local artists in the Commissioners Gallery of the Union County Administration Building in Elizabeth. The gallery, located on the 6th floor, can be viewed Monday through Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm.
The Haitian flag-raising ceremony was developed in collaboration with The Haitian Flag Day Planning Committee of NJ. For more information about the event, please contact Judith Guest, Community Engagement & Diversity Coordinator at (908) 527-4388 or via email at Judith.Guest@ucnj.org.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the City of Plainfield and Assemblywoman Linda S. Carter, invite residents to attend Government Day on Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Plainfield City Hall, located at 515 Watchung Avenue.
“Government Day is about breaking down barriers,” said Union County Commissioner Lourdes Leon. “Too often, people don’t know where to go for help — we’re changing that. By bringing state, county, and city services together in one place, we’re making government real, local, and accessible. This is about empowering residents, strengthening trust, and showing up for our communities in a big way.”
This free community event will bring together a wide array of government services and support programs in one convenient location. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with local, county, and state representatives, ask questions, and access in-person assistance on issues ranging from healthcare and taxes to public transit, food security, and more.
“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to coordinate this Government Access Day in collaboration with the City of Plainfield and Union County,” said Assemblywoman Linda S. Carter. “Bringing together a variety of state agencies to directly engage with the community on Saturday, May 10th, is an exciting step toward making government more accessible and responsive to the people we serve. It’s a privilege to work alongside local leaders to ensure that residents have the resources and support they need to thrive.”
Government Day will include representatives from:
County of Union (Various Departments)
Office of Assemblywoman Linda S. Carter
City of Plainfield
NJ Economic Development Authority
RWJBarnabas Health
NJ Division of Aging Services
NJ Board of Public Utilities
NJ Office of Food Security Advocate
NJ Treasury Division of Taxation
NJ Shares
The Office of Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman
Kean University
NJ SNAP Navigators
“We are proud to host Government Day here in Plainfield—a city that believes government should work for the people, not the other way around,” said Mayor Adrian O. Mapp. “Plainfield is a community rooted in connection, compassion, and civic pride. When residents can speak directly to those who represent and serve them, it strengthens trust and ensures that no one is left behind. This event brings essential services directly to our residents, eliminating red tape and building stronger connections between the community and those who serve it. It’s a clear example of how collaboration between local, county, and state partners can transform how we support and uplift our residents. I’m grateful to our partners for standing with us to put people first.”
In case of rain, the event will be moved to the parking deck at Assemblyman Gerald B. Green Plaza, 200 West 2nd Street.
Government Day is open to all residents of Plainfield and surrounding communities. No registration is required. For more information, contact Raine Cuseglio at aswcarter@njleg.org.
Party Dress by Audrey Yankielun (Westfield) – Craft – Best of Show Professional 2025Patience by Mark Albertson (Westfield) – Oil – Best of Show Non-Professional 2025
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to present the 2025 Union County Senior Art Exhibit, featuring more than 160 original works created by older adults, age 60 and above. The public is invited to view the exhibit now through June 3, in the Conference Center of UCNJ Union College of Union County NJ, at 1776 Raritan Road, Scotch Plains.
The exhibit is open from 9 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Friday, and open until 8 pm on Tuesday evenings. The venue is located approximately a quarter-mile from Martine Ave. Upon entering the campus from Raritan Road, visitors should proceed to the third building on the right. Ample parking is available on site.
The annual Senior Art Exhibit showcases artworks by both professional and non-professional artists who reside in Union County. The varied media categories include drawing, pastel, watercolor, oil painting, acrylics, photography, digital art, mixed media, printmaking, craft and sculpture.
“This annual celebration brings people together in a way which encourages our seniors to develop their interest and cultivate local community,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “The Board of County Commissioners is proud to dedicate space for this art exhibit each year, and we hope everyone in Union County—regardless of age—can take something great away from this experience.”
Awards for outstanding entries in each media category were selected by independent professional artists Barbara Wallace, Brian Branch-Price and Joseph Borzotta.
Best in Show by a Professional Artist was awarded to Audrey Yankielun of Westfield for her craft work created from thousands of postage stamps, titled “Party Dress.” Best in Show by a Non-Professional Artist was awarded to Mark Albertson of Westfield for his oil painting titled “Patience.”
First-place artworks will advance to the state level, to be exhibited in the fall at the 2025 New Jersey Senior Citizens’ Art Show in East Windsor.
The Union County Senior Art Exhibit is made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. The exhibit is coordinated annually by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a division of the Department of Parks and Recreation. For more information, email msturm@ucnj.org, or call 908-558-2550 weekdays (relay users dial 711).
For more information about cultural programs offered by the County of Union, visit www.ucnj.org/cultural.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to invite residents to the annual Spring Garden Fair & Plant Sale, hosted by the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Union County on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 12:00pm to 4:00pm in the Demonstration Garden at Trailside Nature and Science Center, located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside.
“The Spring Garden Fair & Plant Sale is always one of the highlights on our calendar as the weather warms up. It brings together the community, celebrates the hard work of our Master Gardener volunteers, and offers residents a chance to bring home something beautiful or edible for their gardens,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “This event supports horticultural education and programs throughout Union County, and we’re proud to see it grow year after year.”
This rain-or-shine event kicks off with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 12:00pm. Attendees will be able to shop a diverse selection of native plants, vegetables, herbs, annuals, perennials, and more. In addition to the plant sale, the event will feature Rutgers Soil Test Kits available for purchase, free Rutgers Fact Sheets with gardening and lawn care tips, and expert advice at the Garden Helpline Plant and Insect Problem Clinic. Visitors can also explore the Square Foot Gardening display, learn about local mosquito control efforts from the Union County Bureau of Mosquito Control, and enjoy educational activities for kids hosted by the 4-H Master Tree Stewards.
Admission is free, and cash-only sales will be available onsite. Attendees are encouraged to bring a small wagon to help transport their purchases. While service animals are welcome, please note that pets are not permitted at the event. Parking is free and available at both Trailside and the Scout Camping Area within the Watchung Reservation.
“We’re excited to once again welcome visitors to the garden, and extremely grateful for the continued partnership with Rutgers Cooperative Extension,” said Union County Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Rutgers Cooperative Extension. “Thanks to the dedication of our Master Gardener volunteers, this event continues to bloom year after year.”
The Spring Garden Fair & Plant Sale is organized by the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Union County, a volunteer organization supported by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension and the Board of County Commissioners. Proceeds help fund horticultural programs, educational outreach, and community services across Union County. For more details, visit https://www.mastergardeners-uc.org.
Union County, in partnership with the Patriots’ Path Council of Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts of America), hosted the second annual Operation WRIP (Watchung Reservation Invasive Plant removal) service project on Saturday, April 5, in the Watchung Reservation.
“Operation WRIP is a perfect example of what can be accomplished when community, youth, and local government come together for a shared purpose,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “We are proud to support programs that protect our environment, engage young leaders, and strengthen the bond between our residents and our County parks.”
Participation surged this year with 261 volunteers—nearly double last year’s turnout—including Scouts and their families, Trail Stewards, members of the Beta Pi Phi sorority, WRIP Team members, County staff, and representatives from the Scout Council.
The project targeted invasive multiflora rosa and Japanese barberry shrubs—thorny, fast-growing plants that crowd out native species and can even harbor ticks that spread Lyme disease. By mid-spring, these are among the only green plants in the Reservation, making them easier to identify and remove.
“We were thrilled to see such a tremendous turnout from so many different communities,” said Daniel J. Bernier, Director of the Union County Division of Park Environmental Services. “Events like Operation WRIP show the power of collaboration in protecting our environment while providing young people with a meaningful way to give back.”
Volunteers gathered at 8:30 a.m. at the Trailside amphitheater for a safety and work briefing, before carpooling to 15 designated sites throughout the park. Despite brief rain, the majority of volunteers stayed through noon, successfully eliminating an estimated 2,400 invasive shrubs.
The event drew participation from 26 Scout troops and Cub Scout packs representing Union, Somerset, Middlesex, Morris, and Hudson Counties. In addition to environmental benefits, Scouts earned service hours and strengthened leadership skills. Four troops extended their stay with a weekend campout in the park’s Scout Camping Area.
For more information about future volunteer opportunities in Union County parks, visit ucnj.org/parks.
Union County Surrogate Christopher Hudak is proud to announce the Surrogate’s Court will begin to offer monthly wedding ceremony services for Union County residents.
Beginning June 2025, couples may schedule, at no charge, a wedding ceremony officiated by Surrogate Christopher Hudak. Ceremonies will be conducted at the Warinanco Sports Center in Warinanco Park, Roselle.
“The Surrogate’s Court is proud to expand its role in creating forever families in Union County,” said Surrogate Hudak. “My office is proud to focus on the most meaningful moments in our resident’s lives and are looking forward to being part of the joy that comes along with the celebration of marriage.”
Ceremonies will be scheduled monthly on a first-come, first-serve basis, with intention to increase dates and hours as demand grows. At this time reservations are limited to Union County residents and participants are required to obtain all licensing paperwork from the municipal registrar’s office prior to the scheduled event.
Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon highlighted Surrogate Hudak’s plan to offer wedding ceremony services as part of her 2025 initiatives, themed, Union County 2025: Connecting Communities, Committed to Progress. “Union County is proud to support Surrogate Hudak’s expansion of services in offering wedding ceremonies to our residents,” said Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “In addition to the importance of offering this vital service, I can think of no better location than Warinanco Park. The park will serve as a picturesque background all while showcasing the amenities the park has to offer.”
This development reflects the Surrogate’s dedication to modernize and increase accessibility to Surrogate Court services for all Union County residents.
For more information or to schedule your ceremony with the court, please contact the Union County Surrogate’s Court at 908-527-4280, email marryme@ucnj.org or visit ucnj.org/surrogate for more information.
Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that vote by mail ballots for the upcoming Primary Election will begin mailing tomorrow, April 17, on a rolling, town-by-town basis in alphabetical order.
Ballots are being sent to all voters on the permanent vote by mail list over the course of the week. The mailing process is anticipated to be completed on or about April 25.
Voters are advised to look out for an oversized bright yellow envelope, which contains their Official Primary Election Ballot. The yellow envelope is designed to help ensure voters can easily identify and locate their ballot when it arrives.
To apply for a vote by mail ballot, go to www.unioncountyvotes.com and click on “How to Vote by Mail,” request an application, fill it out, and mail it to the County Clerk’s office.
For additional information, including a list of candidates and important election updates, please visit www.unioncountyvotes.com.
