Category: Public Info

On Wednesday, January 24, 2024, The Union County Board of County Commissioners through our Department of Human Services kicked off our annual Point-In-Time (PIT) Count and Survey of the Homeless population throughout the cities in our jurisdiction.

The PIT, also known as NJCounts, takes place every January and asks for a count of unsheltered and sheltered individuals experiencing homelessness. This program ran through Wednesday, January 31^st, is mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and for the tenth year, Monarch Housing Associates coordinated the statewide effort, along with Continuums of Care (CoC).  The County of Union has been the lead Collaborative for the CoC since 1998.

“The annual Point-in-Time Count is not just a census; it is a compass guiding our commitment to understanding and addressing homelessness,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “By capturing a snapshot of homelessness on a specific night each year, we illuminate the urgent needs of our community, fostering compassion, awareness, and targeted intervention. It is a vital annual occurrence, which helps us navigate the complex terrain of homelessness, ensuring that no one is left unseen or unheard in our pursuit of a compassionate and inclusive Union County, where everyone gets the help they deserve.”

A total of seven (7) teams comprised of Union County staff, government officials and local nonprofit organizations banded together in smaller groups of 4-6 people during a seven (7) day period in the afternoon and late evening hours. Smaller groups surveyed people throughout the County who “sleep outdoors, in parks, alleys, under bridges, or places not meant for human habitation, such as cars, abandoned buildings, garages, or other structures without electricity or water.”

The County’s 2024 unsheltered count kicked-off at 3:00 a.m. on January 24^th with thirty-five (35) volunteers gathering at the Union County Division of Social Services in Elizabeth and Plainfield.  The teams surveyed the areas of Elizabeth, Plainfield, Summit, Roselle, Roselle Park, Garwood, Linden, Rahway, Hillside and Union.  The four (4) groups that went identified nine (9) unsheltered homeless persons that were further assessed for services at the Union County DHS/Division of Social Services office, including overnight placement through the County’s Code Blue Initiative. 

Total number of homeless persons engaged between the large street outreach event on January 24^th & the seven (7) day street outreach events:

• 30 in Elizabeth
• 2 in Linden
• 2 in Roselle
• 19 in Plainfield
• 13 in Summit

A grand total of 66 homeless individuals were engaged through our street outreach efforts.

“Through the collective efforts of our dedicated teams, volunteers set out on a seven-day task to survey the homeless population, shedding light on the challenges faced by those who sleep outdoors,” Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “This collaborative initiative is a testament to our strong commitment to providing immediate support, resources, and compassion to every individual facing homelessness in Union County. Together, we work for a community where the most vulnerable are not just counted but cared for, ensuring that the path to a brighter future is accessible for all.”

The street outreach teams also provided materials for the homeless, including coats, toiletries, scarves, hats, gloves, sandwiches (provided by Be the Change from Kean University), warm chili, and hot chocolate/coffee. Unfortunately, there was an incident involving a homeless male at the County’s Division of Social Services office in Elizabeth. The individual consumed heroin, leading to an overdose. Swift action was taken by a team member from the County’s Division of Social Services and the County Police. Officer Richard Rijos promptly administered two doses of Narcan, successfully reviving the gentleman and restoring normal breathing. The rapid response by the County’s Division of Social Services and County Police averted what could have been a tragic outcome. Following the prompt intervention, the individual, was then breathing on his own, was transported to Trinitas Regional Medical Center.

On Wednesday, January 24^th, service fairs were held by the City of Plainfield, Plainfield Action Services at the Plainfield Performing Arts Center and the Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless at the Mickey Walker Center in Elizabeth. Plainfield’s service fair had a total forty-eight (48) persons in attendance and Elizabeth’s service fair had a total of one-hundred and forty-six (146) persons in attendance. Both service fairs offered resources from over sixteen (16) social service providers. Medical screenings were also provided at each location, where fifteen (15) individuals received a Covid-19 vaccine, twelve (12) persons received an eye exam, twelve (12) 12 persons received a hearing test, five (5) persons received the Flu vaccine and four (4) persons received information and resources about cancer screening and/or prevention.

During the seven (7) street outreach, which took place from January 24 through January 31, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily, a total of seven (7) groups, representing a total of nineteen (19) volunteers went out to survey the homeless throughout Union County in: Elizabeth, Plainfield, Summit, Roselle, Roselle Park, Garwood, Linden, Rahway, Hillside and Union. The seven (7) groups that went identified fifty-seven (57) homeless persons.

In an effort to house homeless individuals before the Annual Street Outreach events, a Code Blue was called for the night of January 23, 2024.  Through the County’s Code Blue Initiative program, almost 300 homeless persons were housed.

The data collected during NJCounts will help determine how much McKinney Vento Homeless Assistance HUD funding Union County will receive and provides crucial resources for the homeless and housing insecure throughout Union County.

For information on the Department of Human Services, please visit ucnj.org/dhs or call the Action Line, 908-677-5405.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in collaboration with the Department of Human Services proudly announces that they are partnering with United Way of Greater Union County, to offer free income tax assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

“Union County is proud to join hands with United Way in launching the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded.  “In collaboration, we aim to provide crucial financial support to our residents, ensuring that tax assistance is accessible to all, regardless of income. This program reflects our commitment to economic inclusivity and community well-being.”

Union County and its partners recognize the importance of supporting its residents during tax season, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder access to essential tax services. The VITA program, which is funded through Union County, but operated by United Way of Greater Union County, will be staffed by trained volunteers who will assist eligible residents with the preparation of their federal and state income tax returns.

“We have been working to bring this program to fruition over the last few months, and this launch reinforces our dedication to addressing the diverse needs of our community,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “This initiative not only provides essential tax assistance but also exemplifies our commitment to supporting the financial health of all residents. I encourage eligible individuals and families to take advantage of this invaluable service, made possible through our collaborative efforts.”

The VITA program offers cost-free tax assistance to individuals and families with a household income of less than $60,000.  Residents are encouraged to schedule appointments in advance to secure their spot for personalized assistance.

“The United Way of Greater Union County is thankful for the strong partnership with the County of Union that enables us to help our neighbors in need gain access to free tax assistance,” said Julienne Cherry, President & CEO. “After tax services are completed, our UWGUC team provides additional resources through our Family Success Center to ensure our families in Union County thrive.”

For more information or to make an appointment, please call 908-353- 7171 or 201-201-4522 or email VITA@Unitedwayguc.org.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi is pleased to announce the continuation of the Property Fraud Alert program, a free subscription service designed to safeguard Union County homeowners against property fraud. Property fraud is committed when someone illegally uses your property for monetary gain, often by recording a fraudulent document in the Union County land records office to appear as if they own your home or property. It can also occur when someone illegally records a lien against your home or property.

“If someone files a property document with a similar or same name as yours, you will get an alert either by phone or email,” Ms. Rajoppi said. “Then you can go to the Clerk’s property website at https://ucnj.org/county-clerk/ to check to see if the document refers to your property address. If it does, the homeowner should go to their local Police Department and file a police report. They can then take the report to the Office of the Union County Prosecutor who will investigate. Unfortunately, property fraud is one of the largest growing crimes in America today,” she added.  “I’m hopeful this program will give homeowners some peace of mind.”

Since its inception nine years ago, Property Fraud Alert has been widely adopted by Union County homeowners, with thousands of subscribers benefitting from its protection. Homeowners and their family members can sign up for free by visiting www.propertyfraudalert.com/ or by calling the hotline at 800-728-3858. Subscribers can choose how they would like to be notified whenever a document with their name is recorded in the participating County Land Records office – either by email, text message, or voice phone call. This service is available for residential property owners as well as business owners and properties owned as part of trusts.

Although Property Fraud Alert cannot prevent fraud, it serves as an early warning system, allowing property owners to take necessary actions if they suspect fraudulent activity. For more information, please visit www.propertyfraudalert.com/ or call 800-728-3858.

In celebration of Women’s History Month, the Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs is pleased to announce a live speaking event titled “One Woman’s Journey as an Advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” featuring McCarter & English attorney Simone Wilson-Brito as our guest speaker. Residents are welcome to attend this free event and learn about Ms. Wilson-Brito’s insightful experiences as a lawyer and champion of social justice on Wednesday, March 20^th, at 12:30 p.m. at the UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ, Cranford Campus, Victor M. Richel Student Commons, located at 1033 Springfield Avenue in Cranford.

“As a proud, devoted working mother, and a strong advocate for women, this year, as part of my 2024 Chairwoman’s initiatives of “Growing Together in Union County,” I am working to provide women with the necessary resources and opportunities for their thriving success,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This year, we are happy to feature Ms. Simone Wilson-Brito as our guest speaker for Women’s History Month. Ms. Wilson-Brito is an exemplary figure and a fitting choice to illuminate this month. Her strong leadership, commitment to dismantling the barriers of racism and injustice, and aspiration to forge a more inclusive future for our community make her an outstanding individual. She serves as an excellent role model for young girls and women, and we encourage everyone to attend this inspirational free event.”

The theme for National Women’s History Month 2024 is “Women Who Advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.” This theme recognizes women throughout the country who understand the need to eliminate bias and discrimination from our personal lives and institutions to have a more positive future.

Simone Wilson-Brito is the Co-chair of McCarter & English’s Real Estate Practice Group.  She is also Co-Chair of the firm’s Women’s Initiative Steering Committee, tasked with advancing women at the firm, and the Social Justice Project, tasked with advancing the firm’s initiatives to dismantle structural racism and combat the impact of racial injustice in our communities. Her work on the Women’s Initiative Steering Committee has led to McCarter receiving Gold Standard Certification from the Women in Law Empowerment Forum. She is listed as one of New Jersey’s most influential Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) leaders in the year 2021, and is currently listed as one of the Best Lawyers in America of 2024.

She is an active volunteer and also serves as a Member of the Board of Trustees for the YMCA of Newark and Vicinity. Her passion for volunteering and pro-bono work has grown alongside her career as a lawyer and an advocate for women. Notably, she was part of a team of lawyers who helped 14 families affected by Superstorm Sandy in 2012, by assisting them in acquiring new homes after being displaced. She represents clients seeking asylum in the United States from their home country out of fear of persecution or harm and works with the Pennsylvania Innocence Project and the New Jersey Innocence Project through Rutgers University assessing innocence claims.

“Women’s History Month is a special time to celebrate and highlight the countless contributions of women who have helped shape our society. It is also an opportunity to recognize those who are currently working hard to create a better future for all,” said Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Affairs Advisory Board. “Ms. Wilson-Brito’s dedication to promoting women, minorities, and the disadvantaged is a source of inspiration to us all. We would like to invite you to join us in commemorating National Women’s Month this March by attending our event.”

Women’s History Month is an annual celebration of the achievements and contributions of women throughout history and in their communities. It is celebrated nationwide every March. The speaking presentation is free of charge to all Union County residents. To register for the event, please visit UCNJ.ORG/WHM

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

For more information about this presentation and other activities and programs of the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, visit ucnj.org/cultural, email culturalinfo@ucnj.org, or call 908-558-2550.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners cordially invites seniors and their caregivers to visit their local “ASK” services kiosk this March. These services provide an opportunity for attendees to meet experienced professionals who offer expert guidance on senior programs and resources, as well as assistance with form completion. Moreover, bilingual staff will be present at several events to offer support in Spanish.

“The ASK services kiosk plays a strong, supportive role in our mission to provide our senior community with the most accurate and reliable information and resources that they can count on,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman, Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “We urge you to take advantage of this program and visit the Aging Services Kiosk nearest you.”

ASK, short for Aging Services Kiosk, is a program within the Union County Department of Human Services, specifically operated by the Division on Aging. It offers older 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 the ASK kiosks 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 March:

Tuesday, March 12th

Cranford Public Library

224 Walnut Avenue, Cranford

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Wednesday, March 27^th

(Bilingual staff is available)

Elizabeth Main Public Library

11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

“It makes us incredibly proud to know the ASK program is approaching its 8^th year of providing a wealth of information and services to our beloved senior community,” said Vice-Chairwoman Lourdes Leon, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging. “Visit your local library to learn more about this convenient and friendly service.”

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 is pleased to announce a new series of acrylic painting workshops for adults will take place this spring on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. until noon at the Trailside Nature and Science Center, located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside.

“We are thrilled to offer our residents the opportunity to explore their artistic potential in the relaxing and breathtaking ambiance of Watchung Reservation through creative workshops like these,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “We encourage you to make your reservation today and prepare to be inspired. I hope to see you there.”

There will be a total of three workshops, each focusing on a different nature theme:

March 9^th – Beautiful Flowers

April 13^th – Scenic Landscapes

May 11^th – Terrific Trees

The workshops will be taught by artist and long-time Elizabeth resident, Dario Scholis. Born in Quito, Ecuador, Mr. Scholis began painting at a young age. He graduated from the School of Fine Arts at the Central University of Quito and later attended the Corcoran School of Arts in Washington, D.C.

Mr. Scholis has taught art to adults and children of all abilities for over 20 years. In recent years, he has created interactive art projects emphasizing the importance of recycling and caring for the environment. Join Mr. Scholis as he teaches the basics and benefits of using acrylic paint. Using nature as their subject, participants will let their creativity flow as they produce one-of-a-kind works of art to take home.

Attendees must be age 18 or older. Pre-registration is required. To register, visit ucnj.org/trailside and follow the link to Union County’s secure online registration page. The fee is $20 per person per class and includes all materials.

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 information about the adult art workshops or other upcoming programs and events 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 is pleased to announce the opening of the 2024 Union County Teen Arts Touring Exhibit, now on display at the Elizabeth Public Library. The Teen Arts Touring Exhibit features visual art works selected to serve as an exemplary representation of the artistic talent in Union County.

“We are proud to support our young artists and provide them with a platform to showcase their talents,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Participating in the arts boosts the development and well-being of our youth, setting the stage for lifelong learning. Celebrate these young artists by visiting the exhibit as they share their work with us.”

The Teen Arts Touring Exhibit is located on the 3rd floor of the Elizabeth Public Library, located at 11 South Broad Street, and will run from February 21 until March 27, 2024. Artworks displayed in the exhibition were chosen from submissions by students participating in their local county teen arts festivals. These pieces were then nominated for inclusion in the touring exhibit. The exhibit is free and open to the public during regular library hours, which can be found visiting the library website at http://www.elizpl.org or by calling 908-354-6060.

Bette Jane Kowalski, liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Advisory Board, said, “As a community, it’s vital that we recognize the talents of our young people. Visitors to the exhibit not only support and celebrate young artists, but also encourage future generations to explore their own artistic potential.”

The Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, part of the Department of Parks and Recreation, coordinates the Union County Teen Arts Festival and Exhibits.  For further information about this and other programs and services related to the arts in Union County, contact the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, 633 Pearl Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202; telephone, 908-558-2550; or email culturalinfo@ucnj.org. NJ Relay users may dial 711.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce its free virtual series for the LGBTQ+ community, OUT in Union County: Queer Empowerment Hour with host Micayla Mirabella, returns this February 21^st at 7:00 p.m. with a powerful topic – African American LGBTQ Arts and Culture: Connecting to Holistic Health, Wellness, and Healing. The virtual, hour-long conversation is part of a monthly series that explores an array of LGBTQ+-specific themes, stories, and experiences to inform, educate, and connect the community.

“The Commissioners and I proudly support the Queer Empowerment Hour Series and its mission to make Union County a more inclusive and accepting environment for our residents through these open discussions,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “I encourage you to attend our free virtual series and join in on the conversation.”

This OUT in Union County: Queer Empowerment Hour session begins at 7:00 p.m. and will be live-streamed on the County of Union Facebook page. Questions are taken via Zoom and within the comments section on Facebook. This month’s episode will discuss the influence of the African American LGBTQ+ community on the arts and culture and its deeper connection to the health and well-being of our community. Featured guest panelists include Danielle Earle, Drew Giddings, and Danielle King.

Danielle Earle is a Digital Media and Filmmaking Teacher at Orange High School in Orange, NJ, and has worked professionally in the film industry for the last 14 years. She serves as a board member for the Newark LGBTQ+ Center, a Committee Member of Educators 4 Equality/Garden State Equality, an Essex County Education Association LGBTQ+ Committee Member, and a SOGI (sexual orientations and gender identities) Committee member. Danielle’s exceptional advocacy work for the LGBTQ+ community has earned her recognition and awards. Recently, she was acknowledged as an Equality Champion by the NJEA and NEA.

Drew Giddings has worked with over 100 organizations and causes over the years and has spent the last 20 years leading programs and fostering relationships with the non-profit, philanthropic, and faith-based sectors nationwide.  He is considered a mentor, connector, and justice steward within the community. He currently serves on the Kings Daughters’ Day School Board of Trustees and the New Jersey Legislative Black Caucus Foundation Board of Directors.

Danielle King has over 10 years of experience in health education, and has built long-term partnerships with donors and established sustainable programs during her tenure. She is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and a Rutgers alumna. She currently serves as the Development Manager of the RWJUH Babs Siperstein PROUD Center and has notably raised the number of LGBTQ+ patients visiting the facility from 120 to 1,800 through outreach and networking with outside organizations. She is a Board member of the Cancer Institute of New Jersey’s Community Action Cancer Board as well as a member of the Union County LGBTQ Ad Hoc Committee.

“The vibrant and rich African American culture has had a profound impact on American society and its artistic expression. It is crucial to acknowledge and appreciate the enduring and healing influence of the arts on our ancestors, which continues to resonate with us today,” said Union County Commissioner Rebecca L. Williams, Liaison to the Union County LGBTQ Ad Hoc Committee.  “The arts offer us a source of inspiration, empowerment, comfort, and healing. In this discussion, we will focus on the LGBTQ individuals within the African American Community, and how their courage to break barriers and express themselves artistically despite obstacles continues to inspire and restore us.”

To participate in this informative discussion, please register at: ucnj.org/lgbtq. Queer Empowerment Hour is brought to you by the Union County Board of County Commissioners, and in collaboration with the Union County Office of LGBTQ Affairs.

For dates, times, or more information on upcoming Queer Empowerment Hour meetings, please contact the Union County Office of LGBTQ Affairs at 908-527-4897 or visit our website at: ucnj.org/lgbtq.

In remembrance of the landmark Supreme Court Case “Gibbons v. Ogden”, the Union County Board of County Commissioners will be hosting a special event called, “Gibbons v. Ogden: Its Continuing Importance 200 Years Later.” The event will feature a presentationby the Richard Hughes Professor of Law at Seton Hall University, Edward Hartnett, and will be held on Monday, March 4^th from 12:30 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Courtroom of Honorable Lisa Miralles Walsh (A.J.S.C.) on the 1^st Floor Tower of the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth.

“As a native Elizabethan, I enjoy sharing with my family and fellow residents the connections that our cities have to famous cases like “Gibbons v. Ogden”. Union County’s rich, historical background not only makes it a great place to live and work but also a wonderful location to provide our growing families with a diverse and fascinating education. There is so much history here for us to explore together,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Join us in commemorating this momentous anniversary with Professor Hartnett. I hope to see you all there.”

Professor Edward A. Hartnett earned his A.B., magna cum laude, from Harvard, and his J.D. degree from New York University. During his time at NYU, he was elected to The Order of the Coif, a prestigious academic society that recognizes law students for their exceptional scholarship achievements.

He has been a faculty member at the Seton Hall School of Law since 1992. Over the years, he has authored articles in leading law journals such as Boston College Law Review, Constitutional Commentary, Columbia Law Review, Duke Law Journal, Michigan Law Review, New York University Law Review, Notre Dame Law Review, University of Pennsylvania Law Review, Texas Law Review, and William & Mary Law Review.

He specializes in Constitutional Law and Federal Courts with an emphasis on the history and practice of the Supreme Court of the United States. He is a co-author of the leading text on practice before the Supreme Court.

“We are honored to have Professor Edward Hartnett joining us as our guest speaker. His vast knowledge in the field of Constitutional Law, particularly his insights on the Supreme Court of the United States, and the important role played by Union County is something we can all benefit from and be proud of,” said Commissioner Bette-Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Cultural & Heritage Advisory Board. “Learn more about this historic case and join us on March 4^th.”

The case of Gibbons v. Ogden of 1824 was between fellow steamboat owners Aaron Ogden and Thomas Gibbons. In the early 1820s, Ogden operated his steamboats under a State license and in compliance with Robert Fulton and Robert R. Livingston’s monopoly of the steamboat navigation on the Hudson water route. Thomas Gibbons then entered the scene, operating his steamboats in the same water route under a Federal Coast license, violating the State License and monopoly rules.

Ogden took Gibbons to the New York Court of Chancery for the violation and initially won his case. Still, Gibbons swiftly appealed, taking his case to the United States Supreme Court, and ultimately winning his appeal against Ogden. The decision made by the Supreme Court was to uphold the Commerce Clause of the Constitution, and all navigation was freed of monopoly control.

Union County recognizes the bi-centennial of this significant event in the early history of the United States due to its connection with our area. Thomas Gibbons and Aaron Ogden, both residents of Elizabethtown (now known as Elizabeth), were involved in a court case that dealt with steamboat navigation. This case specifically addressed a water route between Elizabeth and New York City.

This special speaking event is free of charge, but registration is required. To register, please visit ucnj.org/gvo.

This special History program in Union County is made possible by funds from the New Jersey Historical Commission and is presented by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a division of the Department of Parks and Recreation, and in collaboration with the Union County Bar Association.

For more information about this presentation and other activities and programs of the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, visit ucnj.org/cultural, email culturalinfo@ucnj.org, or call 908-558-2550.

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.