The Union County Board of County Commissioners is and the Union County Commission on the Status of Women is pleased to announce a Diaper Drive in support of Diaper Needs Awareness. The drive will be held throughout the month of September, with various donation drop-off locations throughout Union County.
“Every contribution, no matter how small, helps us create a network of care and support for those who need it most,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “As Chairwoman, and as a mother, I understand the importance of essential baby items, and the cost of these items can add up quickly, especially for those who are struggling to make ends meet. By coming together as a community to support mothers and their babies, we are building a stronger, more compassionate Union County.”
A broad range of baby and mother care items, such as diapers, wipes, and baby hygiene products, will be accepted in original packaging. Items can be dropped off at one of three locations now through September 30th:
Union County Administration Building
10 Elizabethtown Plaza, Elizabeth
Union County Public Safety Building
Froehlich Building
400 North Avenue, Westfield
Union County Engineering Building
Public Works & Facilities Management
2325 South Avenue, Scotch Plains
Union County will also be collecting diapers and supplies on Saturday, September 14th from 4:00pm to 10:00pm at the 2024 Union County Fall Festival in Oak Ridge Park, located at 136 Oak Ridge Road in Clark.
For more information about the Diaper Drive, visit www.ucnj.org/women. Anyone interested in hosting a drop-off site can contact Jennifer Erdos, Union County Office on Women, at jerdos@ucnj.org.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites Union County students in grades 1-12 to join a 4-H Club this fall and explore popular fields ranging from cooking, sewing, art, archery, robotics and more. Youth in their first year after graduating from high school can also join.
“Joining a 4-H Club offers our young residents a unique opportunity to discover their passions, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “We are proud to support this program, which promotes creativity, teamwork, and a commitment to community service among Union County’s youth.”
The majority of the clubs meet at Union County’s’ Colleen Fraser Building at 300 North Avenue, East in Westfield on either Friday, Saturday or Sunday. 4-H Clubs are organized by age and topic. The members meet with an adult club leader on a monthly basis during the school year to plan activities and programs.
Each club emphasizes the ability of students to learn, organize, and communicate with activities appropriate for their age. For the school year 2023 – 2024, the clubs are:
Variety Club (different topics with crafts and show-and-tell), grades 1-3.
Cooking Club (prepare deserts, main courses and more), grades 4-12.
Community Service Club (plant trees, make sandwiches, teach younger youth), grades 8-12.
Sewing Club (learn how to hand sew and use a machine), grades 6-12.
Lego Robotics Club (work with NXT kits and Spike) grades 4-12.
Craft Club (have fun with paints, fabrics and more) grades 4 – 12.
Engineering Club (make model cars, bridges, and learn about electric) grades 4-7.
Archery Club (learn basics and more advanced techniques) 4-12.
Photography Club ( learn basics of using a camera) 4-12.
Union County 4-H is run by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County and supported in part by the Commissioner Board, with offices at the Union County Complex at 300 North Avenue East in Westfield. The national 4-H youth program is the largest youth development program in the U.S. As a program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 4-H encourages students to develop expertise in a subject of their own choosing, and share their knowledge to benefit their community.
Participation in 4-H is associated with better grades at school, and a stronger interest in taking science classes, attending college, and contributing to the community. A recent Tufts University study found that as a group, girls who join 4-H clubs are especially likely to demonstrate positive behaviors.
4-H Clubs run from October to June. To sign up for a club, email James Nichnadowicz Union County 4H Youth Development Agent at jnichnadowicz@ucnj.org or call 908-654-9854 ext. 3.
For more information about all Union County Extension programs, including 4-H, Master Tree Stewards and Master Gardeners, visit ucnj.org/rce.
In recognition of National Recovery Month, the Union County Board of County Commissioners, in collaboration with the Office on Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse and in partnership with Prevention Links is pleased to announce a webinar aimed at raising awareness and support for individuals in recovery from substance use disorders. The webinar will take place on September 24th from 6:00pm-7:00pm, and will be accessible via Zoom and Facebook Live.
“National Recovery Month is a time for us to come together as a community to support and uplift those who are on the path to recovery,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri Mouded. “By partnering with Prevention Links and hosting this webinar, we hope to raise awareness and encourage open conversations about recovery and resilience.”
The upcoming webinar, Voices of Recovery: Celebrating Strength and Resilience during National Recovery Month, will feature a panel of diverse speakers who will share their powerful stories of hope, recovery, and resilience. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired by these remarkable journeys. Mark your calendar and be part of this special event!
National Recovery Month, celebrated each September, recognizes progress in the field of recovery and honors the resilience of those who have overcome substance use disorders. The Union County Board of County Commissioners is partnering with Prevention Links, a non-profit dedicated to preventing substance abuse and supporting mental health. Prevention Links empowers individuals, strengthens communities, and promotes healthy lifestyles through its various programs and initiatives.
To register for the webinar, visit www.ucnj.org/nr-zoom. For more information about National Recovery Month, or information about substance abuse disorders, please visit the Office on Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse website at www.ucnj.org/dhs/obhsa.
For more information on all Union County Human Services programs and activities, please visit online at https://ucnj.org/dhs or call the DHS Action line at 908-677-5405.
Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying County and Town Parks Saturday morning, August 31, 2024, between the hours of 3:00 A.M. to 8:00 A.M. (Weather Permitting). Check below for the list of Parks to be sprayed. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Union County Office of Mosquito Control at 908-654-9834 or 908-654-9835.
County Parks:
Berkeley Hts. – Snyder,
Clark – Oak Ridge, Esposito
Cranford – Nomahegan, Lenape
Elizabeth – Warinanco, Mattano, Phil Rizzuto
Garwood – Unami
Hillside – Conant, Rutgers
Kennilworth – Black Brook, Lenape
Linden – Wheeler
Mountainside – Echo Lake, Watchung Reservation Loop Area
Plainfield – Cedar Brook, Green Brook
Rahway – Rahway Pk.
Scotch Plains – Pondarosa
Springfield – Meisel
Summit – Briant
Town Parks:
Berkeley Heights – Columbia, Mt Carmel
Plainfield – Milt Campbell
Union – Biertuempful
Westfield – Tamaques, Mindowaskin, Brightwood, Clark
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce that the Union County 2024 Fall Festival will be held on Saturday, September 14th, from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Oak Ridge Park, located at 136 Oak Ridge Road in Clark. Admission is free for all.
“The Commissioner Board and I hope that our residents and park visitors have been enjoying this year’s concert series so far and have room for one more,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “As we look forward to the changing seasons, we are delighted to host another day of live music, refreshments, and fun! Events like our Fall Festival foster community togetherness, providing one more opportunity for everyone to detach from their daily routines and re-engage with one another in a safe and comfortable environment. I hope to see you all there.”
The 2024 Fall Festival will feature live musical performances, with plenty of food and refreshments available for purchase. For the first time ever, this event will include the Union County Micro Beer Garden, featuring local beer from Wet Ticket Brewing of Rahway, Yale Terrace Brewery of Cranford, Climax Brewing Co. of Roselle Park, and Lion’s Roar Brewing Company of Westfield. Residents must be at least 21 years of age and able to present a valid photo ID before being served.
The musical line-up for the 2024 Fall Festival is as follows:
The Fabulous Thunderbirds – This popular blues rock band is known for its harmonica-infused sound. With fifty years in the business, they’ve had the opportunity to open for musical talents, The Rolling Stones and Eric Clapton, and even had their own music used in 1987’s classic film, “Hot Pursuit.” Attendees can look forward to listening to fan favorites “Tuff Enuff” and “Wrap It Up” as well as newer hits like “Struck Down By The Blues” and “Nothing in Rambling.”
The Weight Band – This band knows how to follow in the footsteps of its predecessor, The Band, and that’s in part because their group leader, Jim Weider, was the lead guitarist of The Band for 15 years! The Weight Band recreates the energy of that grassroots, Woodstock sound that will transport fans back in time, while blending in their own inspirational, original acts that will leave the audience hopeful for what’s to come in the future.
Dead On Live – Dead on Live returns to our concert series with a super funky “Jerry Jams” show, recreating the Jerry Garcia solo era of 1975-77, when he headlined the groovier, easy-going namesake band, the Jerry Garcia Band. Fans can look forward to DOL’s recreations of “They Love Each Other” and “Positively 4th Street” as well as other iconic hits from that unforgettable time in music.
In support of Diaper Needs Awareness Month, the County of Union will also be collecting donations of diapers and baby supplies at the 2024 Fall Festival. All donations will be distributed to local non-profits. For additional drop-off locations and more information on the Diaper Drive, please contact Jennifer Erdos at the Union County Office on Women at ucnj.org/women.
The 2024 Fall Festival is presented by the Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation.
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.
Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying for mosquitoes Wednesday, August 28, 2024, between the hours of 6:00PM to 11:00PM (Weather Permitting). Check below for a list of areas to be sprayed. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Union County Office of Mosquito Control at 908-654-9834 or 908-654-9835.
Berkeley Hts. – Grant St., River Rd. Area, Mt. Carmel Area, Kuntz Av., Camptown Dr., Park Av., Hamilton Av., Columbia Av., Rutgers Av., Riverbend Rd., Shadow Ln., Briarwood Dr. W., La Grande Av. Area
Clark – Riverside Dr., Emerald Pl., King St., Schwinn Dr., Conger Way, Rutgers Rd., Roberts Rd.
Cranford – Kenilworth Blvd., County Park Dr.
Hillside – Harvard Av., Cornell Pl., John St., Westminster Area, Aldine St. Area,
Kenilworth – Dorsett Dr., Epping Dr., Water Co. Rd., Union Av., Bloomingdale Av.,
The Union County Board of County Commissioners announced today that in response to feedback from residents and community members, Union County has revised the plan for the Clark Reservoir Project to better reflect the input and concerns of local residents. The County carefully considered the suggestions voiced during public meetings held in Clark and during Union County Commissioner meetings, leading to a decision to make adjustments to the current project.
“We deeply value the input of our Union County residents,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “By working together and listening to one another, we can create spaces that reflect our vision of preserving open space while also enhancing recreational opportunities.”
The project, managed by CME Associates, an engineering and planning firm, originally proposed a comprehensive redevelopment plan for the Clark Reservoir. The initial design included several features, such as a train, carousel and ice skating, which have presently been removed from the revised plans based on community feedback. CME Associates will continue to play a key role in implementing the updated project.
“We are fully committed to preserving the natural beauty of the Clark Reservoir while addressing its critical environmental challenges,” said County Manager Ed Oatman. “In response to our residents, we have refined our approach to focus on essential improvements that balance ecological preservation with thoughtful recreational enhancements. This project ensures that all residents and visitors in our county have access to the reservoir as a serene, sustainable resource to enjoy.”
The updated plan prioritizes essential environmental improvements, such as dredging the reservoir to combat siltation and sedimentation, enhancing flood storage, and improving water quality. At the same time, it will create a space that embraces the natural charm of the area. New additions like unpaved walking paths, duck boats, non-motorized sports options including canoes, kayaks, and a fishing pier will offer residents a serene and enjoyable recreational experience. These thoughtful adjustments will continue to keep the reservoir a cherished green space for the community while providing meaningful environmental and recreational benefits.
“We recently held an open space committee meeting to address adjusting our current plan based on resident’s concerns, all while still maintaining our vision for the County,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Chairman of the Open Space Recreation and Historic Preservation Trust Board. “Working in collaboration with the County Manager and his team at this meeting, we were dedicated in ensuring our projects reflect the community’s needs and values. By prioritizing the preservation of the reservoir’s natural landscape and addressing longstanding environmental issues, we are creating a project that balances progress with preservation, making the Clark Reservoir a valued natural space for future generations to enjoy.”
Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying County and Town Parks Tuesday morning, August 27, 2024, between the hours of 3:00 A.M. to 7:00 A.M. (Weather Permitting). Check below for the list of Parks to be sprayed. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Union County Office of Mosquito Control at 908-654-9834 or 908-654-9835.
County Parks:
Berkeley Hts. – Snyder
Clark – Oak Ridge
Cranford – Nomahegan, Lenape
Elizabeth – Warinanco, Mattano
Garwood – Unami
Hillside – Conant, Rutgers
Linden – Wheeler
Mountainside – Echo Lake, Watchung Reservation Loop Area
Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi reminds residents that the voter registration deadline for the 10th Congressional District Special General Election is this Wednesday, August 28th. Applications will not be accepted after August 28th. The 10th Congressional District Special General Election will be held on Wednesday, September 18th, 2024.
“I urge residents who haven’t already registered not to miss this deadline and ensure that their vote is counted and their voice is heard in this election,” said Ms. Rajoppi.
The state is hosting a Special Election in New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District to fill the vacancy left by Congressman Donald Payne’s untimely passing in April.
The 10th Congressional District includes Cranford, Garwood, Hillside, Kenilworth, parts of Linden including Ward 1, Ward 3 (Districts 1 & 4), Ward 4, Ward 5, Ward 8, Ward 9, Ward 10, Roselle, Roselle Park, and Union.
Voter registration applications and sample ballots can be downloaded at unioncountyvotes.com. For more information about the County Clerk’s election services visit unioncountyvotes.com, or contact the Elections Division at 908-527-4996 or ucvote@ucnj.org.
For more information about all County Clerk programs and services, visit online at ucnj.org/county-clerk or call 908-527-4787.
Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi will host a Notary Public Training Seminar at the John H. Stamler Police Academy, at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains on Friday, September 20, 2024 from 8:45 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The featured speaker will be Union County First Deputy County Counsel Moshood Muftau, Esq.
Space is limited to the first 50 registrants. The registration deadline is Monday, September 9, 2024 or until the openings are filled. A registration fee of $10.00 includes a light breakfast and is required in advance to secure registration.
Attendees should note that the Business Casual dress code at the John J. Stamler Police Academy is strictly enforced. Jeans and sneakers are not permitted, and men must wear shirts with collars.
“This Notary Training Seminar represents an opportunity for individuals to acquire valuable skills and expertise in notary services,” said County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi. “Our commitment to empowering our residents with the tools they need to contribute effectively is strong, and we invite you to be a part of this educational journey.”
Ms. Joanne Rajoppi will make opening remarks and review the application process. Mr. Muftau will speak about the legal aspects of the functions of notaries public.
The seminar will cover the Notary Public application process and new legal requirements and responsibilities. It will also cover the steps for proper notarization and other topics, including how to complete a notary journal and how to examine identification documents.
To register, use the downloadable form on the County Clerk website, ucnj.org/county-clerk. For additional information contact Anna Lima at 908-527-4787. For more information about all County Clerk programs and services, visit online at ucnj.org/county-clerk or call 908-527-4787.
