Category: Public Info

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce the annual Wildlife Photography Contest has returned to the Trailside Nature and Science Center, located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside. Amateur photographers ages 13 and up are invited to enter their original photographs of wild animals in their natural habitat.

“The Wildlife Photography Contest is an exciting event that allows members of our community to showcase their photography skills by capturing the natural beauty of animals in their habitats,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “You can immortalize the furry, winged, crawling, or swimming creatures that inhabit our surroundings through your camera lenses. Have fun expanding your creativity and put your skills to the test. I look forward to seeing your amazing pictures!”

The Wildlife Photography Contest is now accepting submissions. The photographs will be judged by local professional photographers and will be categorized according to age group: Teens, ages 13-17, Adults, ages 18 and up, and Seniors, ages 55 and older. Each photo submitted must be an unframed and un-matted 8″ x 10″ print in either black-and-white or color. The judges will be evaluating entries based on originality, composition, technical excellence, and artistic merit.

The winning entries will be announced at the annual Wild Earth Fest event on Sunday, April 28th, 2024. Wild Earth Fest is an outdoor family event featuring live animals, children’s activities, nature education, food, music, and more.

To obtain a brochure with rules and entry form for the Wildlife Photography Contest, please call Trailside at 908-789-3670 or visit ucnj.org/trailside and go to the events section on the website. Entries must be received or postmarked no later than April 17, 2024.

Aside from special programs and events, Trailside welcomes all visitors free of charge every day from 10:00 A.M to 4:00 P.M., except for Mondays and major holidays. For more details about the Wildlife Photography Contest and other upcoming programs at Trailside, visit ucnj.org/trailside or call 908-789-3670.

For quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities, visit the Green Connection at ucnj.org/green-connection. For more information about activities and programs of the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation visit online at ucnj.org/parks, email parksinfo@ucnj.org, or call 908-527-4900.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Union County Department of Parks & Recreation are pleased to announce the Woodcock Talk & Walk, a PowerPoint presentation and guided indoor/outdoor experience discussing the woodcock on Monday, March 18th at Masker’s Barn at the Deserted Village, and Thursday, March 21st, at Lenape Park. Nature aficionados and bird lovers are invited to join an informative event showcasing the American Woodcock, led by nature enthusiast Pete Axelrod.

“These events give us the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of this special bird and highlight the importance of caring for our local ecosystems,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Coming together as a community to learn is crucial, empowering us all to make informed choices for the benefit of our shared natural resources. Join us in appreciating the wonders of nature and inspire everyone to take responsibility for protecting our environment.”

The annual Woodcock Talk & Walk provides seasoned birders and beginners alike with the chance to catch a glimpse of the American Woodcock and learn more about this unusual and elusive bird. The American Woodcock is known by a variety of colorful names including Timberdoodle, Labrador twister, Night partridge, Mudbat, and Bog sucker.  The species is most commonly referred to as the woodcock due to its preference for wooded areas. American Woodcocks are drawn to moist forests and require dense woodland, providing ample cover and food.

In the spring, the bird seeks out forest clearings, abandoned fields spotted with low brush or open fields next to forest edges to serve as courtship sites.  In preparation for mating, male Woodcocks establish individual territories known as singing grounds.

Perhaps the most fascinating attribute of the American Woodcock is the acrobatic courtship displays performed by the males.  As part of their mating ritual, a displaying male on the ground will emit a nasal, buzzing call referred to as a peent, to attract females. He then takes flight and ascends 200 or 300 feet. All the while, musical twittering sounds are made by the male’s wings. Afterwards, he will spiral or zigzag back to the ground while producing a liquid chirp.

Participants are advised to dress warmly, wear sturdy shoes and bring a flashlight.  The event is free and open to adults and children age 10 and up with an adult. Participants have the flexibility to attend either or both events, but must register online at https://ucnj.org/woodcock-talks-walks/.

Event Details:

• Watchung Reservation Event:
  • Date: Monday, March 18, 2024
  • Time: 6:30pm-8:00pm
  • Location: Masker’s Barn at the Deserted Village – 13 Cataract Hollow Road in Berkeley Heights

• Lenape Park Event:
  • Date: Thursday, March 21, 2024
  • Time: 6:30pm-8:00pm
  • Location: Lenape Park – 130 Kenilworth Boulevard in Cranford

Pete Axelrod, an experienced nature enthusiast, will be leading the presentations. With a lifelong passion for the outdoors, Pete has dedicated himself to the study of Wildlife Biology and Natural History Interpretation. His widespread experience includes volunteering in avian population studies, wild bird rehabilitation, habitat restoration, and wildlife education. Pete has also been a leader in birding ventures throughout New Jersey, collaborating with organizations such as New Jersey Audubon, Friends of Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, and The Raptor Trust.

For more information about the Woodcock Walk & Talk, please visit https://ucnj.org/woodcock-talks-walks/. To learn more about the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation and the activities they offer, please visit https://ucnj.org/parks-recreation.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that the Union County Department of Human Services has several job opportunities available. To fulfill these vacancies, a job fair will be held on Friday, February 16^th from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Warinanco Sports Center, located at 1 Park Drive in Roselle. The special hiring event is open to all residents of Union County.

“Our Human Services Department plays a vital role in our community. The work of these lively and dedicated individuals is significantly important to keeping our residents healthy, strong, and informed,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “I encourage all residents seeking work with a purpose and a mission to serve to consider attending this event.”

This job fair will provide residents with the opportunity to apply for various open positions within the Department of Human Services. Some positions will require a college degree. It is recommended that all applicants bring multiple copies of their resume to the event.

“Our Department of Human Services is one of compassion and commitment, offering a diverse range of crucial services to our residents,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Workforce Development Board. “A career in human services is not just about a job; it is a calling to make a meaningful impact, where every role, every position, plays a crucial part in building a stronger, more compassionate Union County. So, whether you are seeking a new career path or looking to channel your skills into a purpose-driven role, this job fair is your gateway to a fulfilling journey of service and transformation. I hope to see you there!”

The Department of Human Services is the largest in Union County. With over 700 employees, the organization is estimated to serve over half of the county’s total population. The Department is organized by divisions and provides a wide array of services to residents of all ages, abilities, and incomes. To learn more about the Department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs.

While this event is free of charge, pre-registration is required. For more information, or to register online, residents can visit ucnj.org/job-fairs.

The Union County American Job Center is a division of the Union County Department of Human Services that provides in-person career services, including job fairs and recruitment, training, and more.

For questions regarding this event or future hiring events hosted by The Union County American Job Center, please contact Carolina Marin, Senior Manager of Business Development, at 908-527-0373 or by email at ajcbusinessteam@ucnj.org

The Union County Board of Elections reminds voters who plan to change their party affiliation that they must do so by April 10^th to participate in their new party’s Primary Election on June 4^th.

“Voters often do not realize that the deadline to change their affiliation is set long before Primary Day,” said Board of Elections Administrator, Nicole DiRado. “If you plan to change parties ahead of the June 4, 2024 Presidential Primary Election, please be aware that party declaration changes must be received by the Election Board by April 10.”

Ms. DiRado also wishes to highlight a new law that went into effect in 2023 and was updated in 2024:

Any unaffiliated voter, who has opted to receive a vote by mail ballot for all future elections, or for the June 4 primary election, must declare their party by May 28, 2024 to receive their vote by mail ballot through the mail. 

Ms. DiRado reminded voters that they can call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4123 to confirm their party affiliation.  Voters who conduct business with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Office often inadvertently change their party affiliation during their transaction, and may not have even noticed it.

Party Affiliation changes are easy and can be done in several ways. Voters can:

• Update their party online at https://voter.svrs.nj.gov/register;
• Request that a Party Declaration Form be mailed to them by calling 908-527-4123, or emailing ucboe@ucnj.org;
• Request a form through the Union County Votes App; or
• Download a form at https://nj.gov/state/elections/assets/pdf/forms-party-affiliation/party-affiliation-form.pdf for an English form.
• To download a form in Spanish, use https://nj.gov/state/elections/assets/pdf/forms-party-affiliation/party-affiliation-form-spanish.pdf

Calling the Election Board is the best way for voters to ensure they are ready to vote for their party’s candidates in the June 4 primary.

The April 10^th deadline does not apply to voters who are currently unaffiliated. They may declare their party at the polls during early voting from May 29^th through June 2^nd, or on June 4^th, Election Day.

Voting will take place at the regular polling locations, which can be found on the Election Board website www.ucnj.org/ucboe or by calling the Election Board at 908-527-4123. The secure ballot drop box for the Westfield Annual School Board Election is located at the Fraser Building, 300 North Avenue East, Westfield, and will be open for this election for voters wishing to return their mail-in ballot by using the drop-box.

For all Union County Board of Elections information visit www.ucnj.org/ucboe or by calling the Election Board at 908-527-4123.

The Union County Board of Elections advises Westfield Residents that Tuesday, March 26^th is the deadline for voter registration for the April 16, 2024 Annual School Board Election. The election will take place from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Voting will take place at the regular polling locations, which can be found on the Election Board website www.ucnj.org/ucboe or by calling the Election Board at 908-527-4123.

The secure ballot drop box for the Westfield Annual School Board Election is located at the Fraser Building, 300 North Avenue East, Westfield, and will be open for this election for voters wishing to return their mail-in ballot by using the drop-box.

For full information on the Annual School Board Election and all things related to the Union County Board of Elections, please visit www.ucnj.org/ucboe or call 908-527-4123.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, is pleased to celebrate this year’s Black History Month with the theme of, “African Americans in the Arts,” with a free Jazz performance by The Bob DeVos Jazz Quartet featuring Lance Bryant. The event will provide a unique exploration of jazz music through narration and performance on Thursday, February 22, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at the Union County Performing Arts Center, Hamilton Stage, located at 360 Hamilton Street in Rahway.

“The theme for this year’s Black History Month is a significant one. By understanding how music had the power to provide comfort and solace during difficult times, while also capturing moments of hopefulness and joy, we can better grasp the African American journey through history,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “The Commissioner Board and I are proud to honor Black History Month with this free event, and we invite you to join us for a great evening celebrating the Arts.”

This year’s theme “African American and the Arts” will focus on celebrating the dynamic African American culture and its global influence in the arts, music, literature, and film industry. The County of Union is excited to host the Hamilton Stage’s first-time visitors: Bob DeVos and the Bob DeVos Jazz Quartet, along with the talented saxophonist and vocalist, Lance Bryant.

Mr. Lance Bryant is a versatile musician who performs in the New York/New Jersey area. He built an impressive career as an arranger, composer, saxophonist, and singer, and has performed in several orchestras, Broadway shows, and even featured in Spike Lee’s film, Malcolm X. His soulful sound is rooted in his upbringing in the Baptist Church, where he established a spiritual connection to his art, and has been capturing that for audiences ever since. Notably, Lance served as the Director of Instrumental Music at the Fountain Baptist Church in our very own Summit, NJ for six years.

With over 50 years of experience as a guitarist, bandleader, and composer, Bob DeVos developed his signature style – groovy, distinguished, with a full-bodied sound that can effortlessly transition between jazzy blues and Latin funk. Bob had the pleasure of recording and touring with some of the biggest names in the organ jazz industry – Trudy Pitts, Richard “Groove” Holmes & Sonny Stitt, and Jimmy McGriff & Hank Crawford. Notably, he has also recorded for musical legends Frank Sinatra and Gladys Knight.

“It is a great privilege to invite our residents and visitors of Union County to come together to celebrate and learn about its diverse cultures,” said Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Cultural & Heritage Advisory Board. “Black History Month is a perfect time to recognize and appreciate the exceptional creativity and musical talent of African Americans. It is also an opportunity for us to understand how their legacy still influences our community today.”

The event will also include the presentation of the 12^th Annual Chester Holmes Humanitarian award, which was established by the Freeholder Board, now Commissioner Board, in 2012, as a highlight of Black History Month honoring the former County Freeholder and Rahway resident Chester Holmes, who passed away later that year in 2012. An accomplished civic leader who loved the Union County community, Mr. Holmes was a former police officer, community volunteer and member of the Army National Guard.  He was the owner of his own company, Holmes Security, and a former Rahway Councilman. This program is funded in part by a grant from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a Division of Cultural Affairs in the Department of State; and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.

Admission to this event is free of charge, but tickets are required. To reserve your ticket, please visit: www.ucnj.org/bhm.

To receive more information on the entire Black History Month event lineup, residents can visit www.ucnj.org/bhm or contact Judith Guest, Union County Office of Community Engagement and Diversity, at judith.guest@ucnj.org or 908-527-4388.

To view a video on this program by Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, please click here.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners would like to remind its residents of our ongoing free Child Seat Inspection Program.

“Our Child Seat Inspection Program ensures your little ones ride securely,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “As a parent, I personally visit the inspection location to have my children’s car seats properly installed and checked for safety measures. I hope you come and take advantage, as I did, and allow our experts to help with the installation and provide any safety additional tips you may need going forward.”

The Union County Board of County Commissioners encourages residents to check their child car seats for proper installation by visiting the County’s Child Safety Seat Inspection Program Center, located at the Garwood First Aid Squad at 401 2nd Avenue in Garwood. The program will run every Wednesday and Thursday from 7:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m. and no appointment is necessary.

Earlier this week, Commissioner Vice- Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded visited the inspection location, where she had one of her children’s car seats installed.

Under the New Jersey Child Passenger Safety Law:

• Any child under the age of 8 years old and a height of 57 inches shall be secured as follows in the rear seat of a motor vehicle.          
• A child under the age of 2 years and 30 pounds shall be secured in a rear-facing seat equipped with a 5-point harness.
• A child under the age of 4 years and 40 pounds shall be secured as described in (a) until they reach the upper limits of the rear-facing seat, then in a forward-facing child restraint equipped with a 5-point harness.
• A child under the age of 8 and a height of 57 inches shall be secured as described in (a) or (b) until they reach the upper limits of the rear-facing or forward-facing seat, then in a belt positioning booster seat.
• A child over 8 years of age or 57 inches in height must be properly secured by a seat belt.
• It is recommended that children under the age of 13 ride in backseat.

All car seats and boosters have expiration dates. There should be a manufacturer’s label on the back or bottom of the seat that gives the manufacture date and/or specific expiration date.

First launched in 1999, the Child Safety Seat Inspection Program is a service of the Union County Board of County Commissioners, Union County Police Department, 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, in partnership with the American Job Center, invite all healthcare professionals seeking new career opportunities to the Healthcare Job Fair on Wednesday, February 21 at Warinanco Sports Center.

“We are not just offering jobs, we are creating pathways for individuals to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of our communities,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This event not only provides a platform for healthcare professionals to explore career opportunities, but also reflects our commitment to encouraging growth and innovation within the healthcare industry.”

The Healthcare Job Fair is scheduled for Wednesday, February 21, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Warinanco Sports Center, located at 1 Park Drive in Roselle.  The fair will feature a range of roles, including job opportunities for Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Certified Medical Assistants, Certified Medication Aides, Certified Nursing Assistants, and Emergency Medical Technicians. Representatives from CareFinders, Hudson Milestone, Lantern Hill Senior Living Community, RWJ Barnabas Health, Visionworks, and Assisting Hands of New Jersey will be present.

In a commitment to making the recruitment process effective and accessible, the event will provide on-the-spot interviews. Applicants are asked to bring a copy of their resume, as they will have the chance to participate directly with representatives from each organization in person.

“Given the staggering 1.8 million job openings in the healthcare industry each year, it’s crucial to link skilled professionals with job opportunities,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Workforce Development Board. “The Healthcare Job Fair serves as a bridge between employers and our local workforce. By addressing the healthcare sector’s needs, we strengthen our industry, grow job opportunities, and make our community stronger.”

Registration is required on www.ucnj.org/dhs/job-fairs/. For employers who wish to participate in the Healthcare Job Fair, please call Carolina Marin at 908-527-4373 or email ajcbusinessteam@ucnj.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites families to visit Union County’s Trailside Nature and Science Center in Mountainside on Saturday, February 17^th for their annual “February Festivities” – a winter series of indoor and outdoor family fun programs taking place during President’s Day Weekend.

“We are pleased to provide an enriching variety of programs that are both educational and entertaining for residents of all ages, all taking place in the scenic Watchung Reservation,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “In addition to special events like “February Festivities”, Trailside is open all year long for visitors to enjoy nature exhibits and take part in seasonal programming. I welcome all families to join us for a memorable winter day.”

This year, the February Festivities will include:

10:00 A.M. or 12:15 P.M. – Journey of Sap to Syrup – Visitors will see how real maple syrup is made, from the sap of a sugar maple tree. Find out what equipment is needed to collect sap and take part in a taste test to see if you can identify the real thing. Weather-appropriate dressing is strongly encouraged.

11:15 A.M. – Hocus Pocus Magic Show – Adults and children can enjoy a performance filled with magic, audience participation, comedy, and excitement in this live show featuring Joe Fischer. No strollers are allowed in the auditorium.

1:30 P.M. – Mad Science Winter Chills and Thrills Matinee – A series of winter-themed experiments, including winter egg trolls, special science paper, dry ice experiments, and more.

2:30 P.M. – Winter Walk Scavenger Hunt – Investigate the winter woods for buck rubs, bird nests, and bright, red berries. Visitors will warm up around a campfire with hot chocolate and marshmallows as we review our wintry findings.

The programs are recommended for families with children ages four and older. Pre-registration is required for all sessions. To register, please visit ucnj.org/trailside and follow link to Union County’s secure online registration page. The fee per person, per program is $8.00 for Union County residents and $10.00 for non-county residents.

Aside of special programs and events, Trailside welcomes all visitors free of charge every day from 10:00 A.M to 4:00 P.M., except for Mondays and major holidays.

Please note: Trailside will be closed on Monday, February 19^th, in observance of President’s Day.

For more details about “February Festivities” and other upcoming programs at Trailside, visit ucnj.org/trailside or call 908-789-3670.

For quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities, visit the Green Connection at ucnj.org/green-connection. For more information about activities and programs of the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation visit online at ucnj.org/parks, email parksinfo@ucnj.org, or call 908-527-4900.

In recognition of Black History Month 2024, the Union County Board of County Commissioners invites the public to a series of engaging events in February, highlighting key historical and cultural themes in African-American history. This year’s theme, “African Americans and the Arts,” focuses on Black contributions to music, visual media, and more.

“The theme for this year’s Black History Month is a significant one,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “The arts are critical to understanding the Black experience through history; from struggle and pain, to hope and joy. As always, Union County is dedicated to providing enjoyable learning experiences that are unique, engaging, and family-friendly.”

The month-long series begins on Thursday, February 1 at 1:00 p.m. with a raising of the Pan-African flag, also known as the Black Liberation flag, at the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth. The event will not require registration.

“It’s not that long ago that proudly displaying symbols of Black culture in public was unthinkable,” said Commissioner Rebecca Williams. “By continuing our flag raising tradition, we hope to inspire our residents to be proud of their heritage, a central part of their identity.”

The series continues on Wednesday, February 14^th at 12:30 p.m. with a virtual Lunch and Learn presentation. The featured speaker will be Professor Shawn Smith, a photographer and filmmaker who currently also serves as an adjunct professor at Essex County College. Professor Smith teaches Studio Art, along with History of African-American Cinema, Art Appreciation, Photography, Interactive Multimedia Design, Game Design, and Animation Design. Registration for the Zoom is required at www.ucnj.org/bhm. 

“Professor Shawn Smith offers a wealth of knowledge when it comes to Black history,” said Commissioner Michèle S. Delisfort. “His academic experience has covered virtually every corner of that world and we are excited to learn a lot from him. Shawn is a natural fit for our Lunch and Learn series, which is a fun and relaxed way to learn during the work day.”

The County’s Black History Month 2024 event lineup will conclude on Thursday, February 22 at 7:00 p.m. with a special Jazz Night concert. The event, held at the Union County Performing Arts Center Hamilton Stage, located at 360 Hamilton Street in Rahway, will star the Bob DeVos Quartet featuring Lance Bryant. The event will also include the presentation of the 2024 Chester Holmes Humanitarian Award by the Union County Board of County Commissioners. Registration is required to receive a free ticket at www.ucnj.org/bhm.

“We have been eagerly awaiting for the Hamilton Stage to reopen ever since Hurricane Ida,” said Commissioner James E. Baker, Jr., “and now that that day has come, we’re ready to host more incredible community events in this modern, multi-purpose space. It’s a fitting way to continue the celebration of UCPAC’s 95th anniversary, which highlights the rich artistic tradition in both the City of Rahway and Union County.”

Throughout the month, residents can also expect weekly social media content featuring the “Divine Nine” historically Black fraternities and sororities. To receive more information on the entire Black History Month event lineup, residents can visit www.ucnj.org/bhm or contact Judith Guest, Union County Office of Community Engagement and Diversity, at judith.guest@ucnj.org or 908-527-4388.