Category: Public Info

Fireworks & Ammunition Also Will Be Collected

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders will sponsor a Household Hazardous Waste Collection event on Saturday, August 4, so Union County residents can get rid of outdated or unwanted household chemicals, fireworks, ammunition, mercury thermostats, propane tanks, and automobile tires in an environmentally safe manner. The household hazardous waste collection will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Union County Vocational-Technical Schools campus located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains, near the John H. Stamler Police Academy.

Residents of Union County are eligible to participate at no cost. Pre-registration is not required for this special Saturday collection.

“The special household waste recycling program for Union County residents is particularly important as we become more aware of the need for proper disposal of hazardous items that are found around the home,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “The result of our effort is safer homes and a cleaner environment for our families and our neighbors.”

The Union County Police Bomb Squad will be on hand to accept unwanted ammunition and fireworks for disposal. It is particularly important to dispose of old ammunition and fireworks safely because they can be unstable and dangerous.

All that residents need to do is drive to the site with their household special waste, fireworks, ammunition, propane tanks, automobile tires, and mercury thermostats. Workers at the site will unload the vehicles.

“Household special waste” includes oil-based paint and varnish, antifreeze, aerosol cans, pool chemicals, corrosives, pesticides, herbicides, solvents, thinners, fire extinguishers, motor oil and oil filters, gasoline, batteries, thermostats, fluorescent bulbs (unbroken), blood pressure devices, and mercury switches. Only materials in original or labeled containers will be accepted. No containers larger than five gallons will be accepted.

Latex (water-based) paint and empty cans will not be accepted. They should be disposed of in with the regular garbage. Leftover latex paint can be air-dried or, to hasten the drying process, kitty litter and/or newspaper can be added to hasten the drying.

“This is a great opportunity to recycle up to eight tires and dispose of old chemical containers that are cluttering up the basement or the garage, or taking up space under the kitchen sink,” said Freeholder Christopher Hudak, liaison to the Union County Solid Waste Advisory Council. “Our homes become safer once they are rid of hazardous and combustible waste.”

There is a limit of eight automobile tires (without rims) per household. This is a household recycling event. No businesses, please.

Union County, in partnership with Covanta Energy, also includes mercury thermostats in its household waste recycling initiative. The mercury thermostat program complements the County’s efforts to collect household pollutants and divert mercury from the regional waste stream in order to help safeguard our water and air quality. What’s more, residents will receive a $5 gift certificate to Home Depot for turning in a mercury thermostat at the August 4 recycling event.

“Our partnership with Covanta allows us to extend our efforts to pursue environmentally sound methods of waste disposal,” Freeholder Hudak added.

A complete list of the materials that will be accepted on August 4 is available at the Union County Bureau of Recycling and Planning web site: www.ucnj.org/recycle

For more information about the August 4 collection of old fireworks and ammunition, please call the Union County Police at 908-654-9800.

The household hazardous waste collection will be held rain or shine, for Union County residents only and not for businesses. Proof of Union County residency is required. For more information, please call the Recycling Hotline at (908) 654-9889.

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For more information on any Union County press release, please contact Sebastian D’Elia, Communications Director for the County of Union, or a designee listed at the top of this press release. Please join the County of Union online at www.ucnj.org, on Facebook at www.ucnj.org/facebook, and on Twitter athttp://twitter.com/countyofunionnj .

MOUNTAINSIDE, NJ – The popular Wednesday Matinee Series at Trailside Nature & Science Center in Mountainside continues on July 25 with special visitors: “Rizzo’s Reptiles.” Blending nature, environment and conservation, this program features live snakes, turtles and an alligator.

This family-oriented series explores a new subject each Wednesday through Aug. 15, beginning at 1:30 p.m., and runs approximately 45 minutes. All shows are recommended for children ages 4 and older. Admission is $4 per person and tickets go on sale at 1:00 p.m. The Visitor Center opens at noon. Strollers are not permitted.

“Kids in Motion” takes the stage on August 1. It’s a high energy show that leads you on a non-stop musical journey. Jo Jo Russell, a talented DJ who encourages the audience to participate, will have everyone clapping and stomping from start to finish.

On August 8, the natural excitement continues with “The Science of Magic.” Lisa Lou will reveal the secrets of magnetism, light, air, condensation, optical illusion, and plenty of other magical tricks up her sleeve.

“Hocus Pocus” on August 15 with Joe Fischer, Magician Extraordinaire, will be the final show in the 2012 Wednesday Matinee Series. Joe is sure to astound, baffle and thrill the audience with his blend of magic, comedy and excitement. He has an outstanding rapport with children and his ability to engage audience members of all ages makes this show “pure magic.”

For additional information about the Wednesday Matinee Series or other upcoming programs and special events, please call 908-789-3670 or visit www.ucnj.org/trailside. Trailside Nature & Science Center is located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside and is a facility of the Union County Department of Parks and Community Renewal.

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For more information on any Union County press release, please contact Sebastian D’Elia, Communications Director for the County of Union, or a designee listed at the top of this press release. Please join the County of Union online at www.ucnj.org, on Facebook at www.ucnj.org/facebook, and on Twitter athttp://twitter.com/countyofunionnj .

MOUNTAINSIDE, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the Department of Parks and Community Renewal invite the public to attend a free Open House at Watchung Stable in Mountainside on Sunday, July 22, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Visitors to the Watchung Stable Open House will enjoy hayrides, lead-line rides, riding demonstrations and other free activities for families of all ages as they learn all that Watchung Stable has to offer.

Admission to the Open House is free of charge.

Watchung Stable is located at 1160 Summit Lane in Mountainside, in the Watchung Reservation, the largest park in the Union County Park System. For further information about the Open House on July 22 or other programs and activities at Watchung Stable, please call 908-789-3665; email: stablequestions@ucnj.org; or visit the Union County website: www.ucnj.org/stable.

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For more information on any Union County press release, please contact Sebastian D’Elia, Communications Director for the County of Union, or a designee listed at the top of this press release. Please join the County of Union online at www.ucnj.org, on Facebook at www.ucnj.org/facebook, and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/countyofunionnj .

MOUNTAINSIDE, NJ – Mark your calendars! The popular Wednesday Matinee Series at Trailside Nature & Science Center resumes on July 18 and continues weekly through August 15. This family entertainment series begins at 1:30 p.m. each week and runs approximately 45 minutes. All shows are recommended for children ages 4 and older. Admission is $4 per person and tickets go on sale at 1:00 p.m. The Visitor Center opens at noon. Strollers are not permitted.

The matinee on July 18, called “Fantastic Forces,” features the fabulous Mr. Fish in a fast-paced, funny show about phenomenal physics, gravity, sound waves, air pressure and other engaging forces of nature, complete with interactive audience participation.

On July 25, you’ll meet and learn about the wonders of “Rizzo’s Reptiles.” Blending nature, environment and conservation, this program features live snakes, turtles and an alligator.

“Kids in Motion” takes the stage on August 1. It’s a high energy show that leads you on a non-stop musical journey. Jo Jo Russell, a talented DJ who encourages the audience to participate, will have everyone clapping and stomping from start to finish.

On August 8, the natural excitement continues with “The Science of Magic.” Lisa Lou will reveal the secrets of magnetism, light, air, condensation, optical illusion, and plenty of other magical tricks up her sleeve.

“Hocus Pocus” on August 15 with Joe Fischer, Magician Extraordinaire, will be the final show in the 2012 Wednesday Matinee Series. Joe is sure to astound, baffle and thrill the audience with his blend of magic, comedy and excitement. He has an outstanding rapport with children and his ability to engage audience members of all ages makes this show “pure magic.”

For additional information about the Wednesday Matinee Series or other upcoming programs and special events, please call 908-789-3670 or visit www.ucnj.org/trailside. Trailside Nature & Science Center is located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside and is a facility of the Union County Department of Parks and Community Renewal.

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For more information on any Union County press release, please contact Sebastian D’Elia, Communications Director for the County of Union, or a designee listed at the top of this press release. Please join the County of Union online at www.ucnj.org, on Facebook at www.ucnj.org/facebook, and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/countyofunionnj .

The Union County Summer Arts Festival concert series continues its 52nd season of music on Wednesday evening, July 25, with a performance of classic soul music and rhythm & blues by the Sensational Soul Cruisers, sponsored by the Union County Education Association.

The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders, led by Chairman Alexander Mirabella, invites the public to attend this free concert that begins at 7:30 p.m. in Echo Lake Park in Mountainside.

The Sensational Soul Cruisers are much more than just another vocal harmony group with horns. Led by sax player Screamin’ Steve Barlotta of Jackson, the band captures the essence of the Jersey Shore sound and its R&B roots and has catapulted from its humble basement origins to become Jersey’s premier show band performing more than 200 shows each year. Celebrating more than 20 years together, the band returns to Union County to entertain its fans with a high-energy assortment of rhythm & blues, Motown, Stax, Funk, and classic Philly Soul.

“Bring the entire family for a fun-filled musical evening in Echo Lake Park,” said Freeholder Chairman Mirabella. “Pack a picnic basket, bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on, and enjoy the sounds of summer under the stars.”

The Union County information van will be at the concert site with knowledgeable staff to answer questions and offer information about interesting programs and recreational activities available to Union County residents.

The Summer Arts Festival concerts continue throughout August on Wednesdays beginning at 7:30 p.m. The August concerts will be held at Oak Ridge Park in Clark. Lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets are encouraged. Refreshments and snacks will be available from vendors.

The other free concerts in the Union County Summer Arts Festival series include:

Aug. 1 – Classic Rock Revue with Rick Cantor Band & The Broadcasters; at Oak Ridge Park.
Aug. 8 – American Rapture; at Oak Ridge Park.
Aug. 15 – JoBonanno & The Godsons; at Oak Ridge Park.
Aug. 22 – The B Street Band (The Original Springsteen Tribute); at Oak Ridge Park.

For rain information call the Union County Department of Parks and Community Renewal at (908) 558-4079 after 3 p.m. on the day of the scheduled concert, or visit the Union County web site: www.ucnj.org

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For more information on any Union County press release, please contact Sebastian D’Elia, Communications Director for the County of Union, or a designee listed at the top of this press release. Please join the County of Union online at www.ucnj.org, on Facebook at www.ucnj.org/facebook, and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/countyofunionnj .

Union County, NJ – Union County residents with questions about refinancing their homes can get answers through a live video conference with U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Shaun Donovan on Thursday, July 12 at 3:15 p.m. The event will be moderated by the real estate information website Zillow.

“With today’s low interest rates, many Union County residents could benefit by refinancing,” said Union County Vice Chairman Linda Carter. “This conference is a great opportunity to learn about the process and get reliable information straight from the experts.”

To sign up in advance and see a preview question-and-answer session, visit whitehouse.gov/hangout-rsvp.

To learn more about refinancing or to watch the conference without participating, visit WhiteHouse.gov/Refi.

Union County residents with concerns about foreclosure can also visit ucnj.org/ctyclerk for links to the Union County Foreclosure Task Force, or call the Home Ownership Preservation Foundation at 888-995-HOPE (4673).

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For more information on any Union County press release, please contact Sebastian D’Elia, Communications Director for the County of Union, or a designee listed at the top of this press release. Please join the County of Union online at www.ucnj.org, on Facebook at www.ucnj.org/facebook, and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/countyofunionnj.

The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the Department of Parks & Community Renewal are happy to announce the next evening of “Family Fun and Flix” – the free summer entertainment and film series on Tuesday evenings – on July 24 at Warinanco Park. The evening will feature a display of natural artifacts from the Trailside Ecovan followed by a showing of the animated action comedy, “Puss in Boots,” which will give families a chance to enjoy an outdoor activity and catch a movie under the stars in a Union County park.

“Family Fun and Flix begins at dusk, but come early to the park to enjoy interesting preview activities at 7:30 p.m. that are fun for the whole family,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “Bring a blanket or beach chair to claim your spot on the lawn or save a seat in the bleachers – either way, the early birds are sure to like the preview activity before each movie.”

Come to Warinanco Park, on the border of Elizabeth and Roselle, on Tuesday, July 24 at 7:30 p.m. when naturalists from Trailside Nature & Science Center will display pelts, gemstones and other natural wonders found in Union County’s Watchung Reservation. Then sit back at dusk and watch as Puss in Boots goes on a heroic adventure with Humpty Dumpty and Kitty Softpaws in pursuit of Jack and Jill with their magic beans in the 2011 DreamWorks animated adventure, “Puss in Boots” featuring the voices of Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek, Zach Galifianakis, Amy Sedaris and Billy Bob Thornton.

The other dates and locations for this summer’s Family Fun and Flix are:

• Tuesday, August 7 at Meisel Park in Springfield: Take part in National Night Out, starting at 6 p.m., before viewing the concert film, “Justin Bieber: Never Say Never.”
• Tuesday, August 14 at Conant Park in Hillside: The Trailside Ecovan will feature a program about reptiles, before the animated action comedy spy film, “Cars 2.”

All movies start at dusk, weather permitting. For more information, call the Union County Department of Parks and Community Renewal at 908-527-4900. For program and rain information call 908-558-4079 after 3:00 p.m. on the day of the show.

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For more information on any Union County press release, please contact Sebastian D’Elia, Communications Director for the County of Union, or a designee listed at the top of this press release. Please join the County of Union online at www.ucnj.org, on Facebook at www.ucnj.org/facebook, and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/countyofunionnj .

ELIZABETH, NJ – Visitors to the Union County Courthouse who have studied the special exhibit of Civil War memorabilia in the Courthouse rotunda will be eligible to win a drawing for a book about the Civil War era. The drawings will be part of the activities planned by the Union County Civil War Sesquicentennial Committee to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the 1861-65 conflict.

“The books to be offered in our drawing every other month will be appropriate for readers in a variety of age groups, ranging from young school children to adults,” said Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi, chairman of the committee. “We want to encourage visitors to the Courthouse exhibit to become involved in the Civil War commemoration and to learn more about the experiences of Union County residents during the war.”

In addition to the drawing for a book every other month, the Civil War Committee also plans to host Dr. Linda Epps to speak about the Underground Railroad and Prof. Jonathan Lurie to speak about President Abraham Lincoln. The time and place of these talks will be announced soon.

The Civil War exhibit will be on display until 2015 in the rotunda of the Union County Courthouse, 2 Broad Street in historic midtown Elizabeth. To participate in the drawing for a Civil War book, visitors may fill out a coupon with their name, phone number and/or email address, and drop the coupon in the box provided in the rotunda.

The exhibit may be viewed weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The displays will change from time to time. Anyone wishing to loan historical artifacts from the Civil War era for the exhibit can contact committee member Katherine Craig at 908-282-7617. All objects will be secured, locked and acknowledged.

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For more information on any Union County press release, please contact Sebastian D’Elia, Communications Director for the County of Union, or a designee listed at the top of this press release. Please join the County of Union online at www.ucnj.org, on Facebook at www.ucnj.org/facebook, and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/countyofunionnj .

Union County Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella (R) and Freeholder Mohamed Jalloh hand out American flags to the crowds at the 89th Annual Central Jersey Fourth of July Parade in Plainfield. (Photo by Jim Lowney/County of Union)

For more information on any Union County press release, please contact Sebastian D’Elia, Communications Director for the County of Union, or a designee listed at the top of this press release.

Please join the County of Union online at www.ucnj.org 
On Facebook at www.ucnj.org/facebook 
On Twitter at http://twitter.com/countyofunionnj

ELIZABETH, NJ – Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi was sworn in as President of the International Association of Clerks, Recorders, Election Officials and Treasurers (IACREOT) on Saturday, June 30 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, at the organization’s 41st annual conference and trade show.

“It is a great honor and privilege to serve as president of such a hard-working, dedicated group of government officials,” Ms. Rajoppi said. “I am excited by the opportunity to share and network ideas and programs with my colleagues from around the United States, Canada, and the world.”

Ms. Rajoppi has been a member of IACREOT since 1984, serving on various committees and in a number of leadership positions. She follows in the footsteps of her predecessor, former Union County Clerk Walter Halpin, a founding member of the group in 1971 and a former president of the international organization.

“Many of our Union County programs for constituent services emerged from discussions with other IACREOT members over the years,” Ms. Rajoppi said. “It has been a tremendous learning experience to share our knowledge with each other. In addition, I know I can, at any time, e-mail or telephone another IACREOT member to share experiences or exchange information on pending federal legislation, improved systems or emerging issues.

“IACREOT also offers certified education programs for officials through George Washington University in Washington, D.C. These specially designed education programs for public officials are a valuable asset to those of us who work in the public sector,” Ms. Rajoppi added. “This organization is a tremendous asset for working government officials.”

Ms. Rajoppi served as the Union County Register of Deeds and Mortgages for 12 years before her election in 1995 to Union County Clerk. She is the former president of the Constitutional Officers Association of New Jersey and the New Jersey Association of Counties.

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ELIZABETH, NJ – Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi was sworn in as President of the International Association of Clerks, Recorders, Election Officials and Treasurers (IACREOT) on June 30 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. John M. Carbone, Esq., Counsel for the Constitutional Officers Association of New Jersey (left) administered the oath. Ms. Rajoppi’s sons, Andrew Pappas and Peter Pappas held the Bible.

For more information on any Union County press release, please contact Sebastian D’Elia, Communications Director for the County of Union, or a designee listed at the top of this press release. Please join the County of Union online at www.ucnj.org, on Facebook at www.ucnj.org/facebook, and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/countyofunionnj .