Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi advises voters that they can view their sample ballots for the June 4th Primary Election online at the County Clerk’s elections website, unioncountyvotes.com. In addition, voters will receive a printed copy of their sample ballot in the mail.
“Due to the recent changes this year mandated by the Federal courts, it is crucial for voters to take the time to familiarize themselves with their sample ballots beforehand,” said County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi. “Understanding the information and any changes to the layout ensures an informed voting experience. While online accessibility caters to many, we are also distributing printed copies to guarantee every voter can thoroughly review their choices before heading to the polls.”
Sample ballots will be mailed out approximately two weeks before Election Day.
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
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to invite art admirers, wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers to celebrate the opening of the art exhibition, “A Glimpse into the World of Wildlife in Watercolors” by acclaimed artist James Fiorentino on Thursday, May 9th from 4:00 – 8:00 PM at Trailside Nature & Science Center.
“The serene setting of the Trailside Center offers the perfect venue to display Mr. Fiorentino’s breathtaking portraits of wildlife,” comments Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, “The watercolor paintings displayed around Trailside’s towering 34-foot American beech tree exhibit truly brings amazing wildlife alive and helps visitors connect with the beauty of nature.”
The artwork will be displayed at Trailside Nature & Science Center, located in the Watchung Reservation at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside, from May 9th through June 23rd, 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. Interested residents should RSVP at trailside@ucnj.org. Attendees must be age 18 or older.
James Fiorentino (b. 1977) is an American artist who currently resides in Hunterdon County, NJ. A master in watercolor, his works of art have been internationally recognized. His professional career taking off while still in high school, Fiorentino became the youngest artist ever featured in the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum for his likeness of Reggie Jackson. In 1998, he became the youngest artist to be inducted into the prestigious New York Society of Illustrators, along with such artists as Norman Rockwell and Andrew Wyeth.
His works which include landscapes, portraits, seascapes, still life’s and animals have been showcased in museums, galleries, and private collections across the globe, and his story has been told on national television and in the pages of magazines, books and newspapers. His evocative artwork inspires viewers through his life-like depictions of rare wildlife in their natural surroundings. His paintings truly bring wildlife to life on paper and his art helps to educate and engage viewers about the precipitous declines that many of these wildlife species have endured. James’ work has won numerous awards and can be seen nationally in books, magazines and on trading cards. James is also a trustee of the Raptor Trust of New Jersey and the D & R Greenway Land Trust.
For more information about upcoming programs and events at Trailside, visit https://www.ucnj.org/trailside or call 908-789-3670. For quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities, visit the Green Connection at https://www.ucnj.org/green-connection. For more information about activities and programs of the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation visit online at https://www.ucnj.org/parks, email parksinfo@ucnj.org, or call 908-527-4900.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly announces that the County’s first Haitian flag-raising will take place on Monday, May 6th, at 12:00 p.m. on the steps of the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth.
“We are honored to commemorate Haitian Heritage Month by hosting our first Haitian flag-raising event this May,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Union County is a unique community with a rich tapestry of different cultures. We are proud to bring this community together to celebrate the many different facets that make us who we are, and we hope you join us for this joyous occasion.”
Union County will proudly raise the vibrant and symbolic flag of Haiti for the first time, symbolizing unity, resilience, and the spirit of the Haitian people. The event promises to be a momentous occasion, bringing together community leaders, dignitaries, residents, and members of the Haitian diaspora to commemorate this historic moment.
The ceremony will commence with opening remarks from Chairwoman Palmieri-Mouded, followed by an invocation from Pastor Eric Charles of the Peniel Church in Elizabeth. Commissioners Michèle S. Delisfort and Sergio Granados will also give remarks, along with Miss Supranational Haiti 2024, Tara-Lynn Saint-Elien, and Marline Edmond, Chair of the Haitian Flag Day Planning Committee of N.J.
The flag-raising ceremony marks Union County’s month-long celebration of Haitian history and culture. This event is highly significant for Union County as it provides an opportunity to showcase the importance of recognizing and embracing cultural diversity.
An exhibit featuring the works of Haitian artists Haenley Pierre and Patrick Joseph will be available for viewing throughout the month of May at the Commissioners Gallery, located on the 6th floor of the Union County Administration Building in Elizabeth. The gallery is open to the public free of charge from Monday through Friday between 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. Residents are welcome to visit and enjoy the exhibit.
“As a commissioner of Haitian descent, I am excited about the upcoming events that will celebrate and recognize the history of Haitians and Haitian Americans,” said Commissioner Michèle S. Delisfort. “Our culture and influence have played a significant role in shaping this community into what it is today, and we couldn’t be happier to share this moment with all of you.”
The Haitian flag-raising ceremony was developed in collaboration with The Haitian Flag Day Planning Committee of N.J., Inc. (HFDPCNJ). Union County is grateful for their local community outreach efforts.
All members of the community are invited to join in this momentous celebration of Haitian culture and heritage. For more information about the event, please contact Judith Guest, Community Engagement & Diversity Coordinator at (908) 527-4388 or via email at Judith.Guest@ucnj.org
The Union County Board of Elections reminds residents that Tuesday, May 14 is the deadline for voter registration for the 2024 Primary Election. Election Day will be on Tuesday, June 4.
“There are multiple options for residents to register to vote in time for the upcoming election,” said Union County Board of Elections Administrator, Nicole DiRado. “Those eligible to vote can apply online, by mail or in person in order to register.”
The Union County Board of Elections office is open Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to accept Voter Registration Forms. On the May 14 voter registration deadline, the Board of Elections Office will remain open until 9:00 p.m. to receive forms.
Municipal Clerk offices can also provide and accept voter registration forms.
Voter registration forms in both English and Spanish can also be downloaded from the Union County Board of Elections website at ucnj.org/boe/voter-registration-information. Be sure to print and sign the form before returning.
To register online, eligible residents should visit: voter.svrs.nj.gov/register and follow the Online Voter Registration instructions. Your County Commissioner of Registration will notify you if your application is accepted. If it is not accepted, you will be notified on how to complete and/or correct the application.
You can register to vote if:
You are a United States citizen
You will be 18 years old by the next election
You will be a resident of the State and county for 30 days before the election
You are NOT currently serving a sentence because of a felony conviction
As of March 17, 2020, persons currently on parole or probation are entitled to vote.
To receive a voter registration form by mail, call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4123.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce the partnership of the Kimberly Anne Wilson Foundation with Union County for the upcoming UC STEP Civic Engagement Project, “Stepping Up to Mental Health Summit”. The summit will be held on May 18th at Oak Ridge Park from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Any funds raised by students during the course of this project will be donated to the Kimberly Anne Wilson Foundation.
“We are honored to have established a significant partnership with the Kimberly Anne Wilson Foundation for this event. It’s heartening to see how the foundation turned a painful loss into a source of hope for countless individuals who suffer silently with mental health challenges,” said Commissioner Chairwoman and Liaison to the Mental Health Advisory Board, Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Our goal with these events is to ensure that anyone who may be struggling with their mental health has access to the necessary resources and community support, and we couldn’t have asked for a better partner in this cause. I look forward to seeing you there and being a part of this journey together.”
The Kimberly Anne Wilson Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation that was established in 2018 to honor and carry forward their daughter/sister Kim’s legacy of caring and giving to those who struggled with mental health challenges. Kim tragically passed away in 2017 at the age of 24 before she had a chance to fulfill her dream of having a career in mental health counseling. She firmly believed and genuinely cared that those who face mental health challenges should be encouraged to feel comfortable with opening up about their feelings and treated with non-judgment, support, and compassion. The Kimberly Anne Wilson Foundation carries forward this legacy in her honor and hopes to deliver the change she envisioned for others.
The Kimberly Anne Wilson Foundation believes in the benefits of mental health wellness through the use of different modalities. Creative wellness practices such as self-expression through art and music can have a therapeutic effect on an individual’s mental health. In-school pet visits from certified animal therapy teams can also provide healing comfort to students.
Thanks to the extraordinary responses from our community, ideas presented by teams Light Green, Gold and Maroon will be featured as key components of the final community engagement project- the first ever Union County Stepping Up to Mental Health Summit.
Team Light Green’s idea of hosting a mental health summit will be the main feature of our culminating event. Other activities, including team Maroon’s Embrace(let)s project that focuses on embracing feelings whether they are good or bad will be included at the summit. Participants will make bracelets to spread mental health awareness to emphasize that “it’s okay to not be okay.” To honor Team Gold’s project, Union County will create an online resource portal connecting our youth to mental health resources. By making resources readily available online, we can empower individuals to take proactive steps towards managing their mental health.
Each of the three projects presented at UC STEP address different aspects of mental health and in raising awareness. By pursuing all three initiatives simultaneously, our hope is to create a more holistic strategy that addresses the diverse needs of individuals struggling with mental health challenges.
Students will still have a chance to win the $1,000 START NOW Grant from the Union County Board of County Commissioners.
For more information, please contact Judith Guest, Community Engagement & Diversity Coordinator at (908) 527-4388 or via email at Judith.Guest@ucnj.org. For more information about UC-STEP, please visit ucnj.org/uc-step/.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is happy to inform all residents that the County of Union has been awarded one-hundred percent of the active recreation and stewardship grants that it applied for back in February by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). Additionally, the County was awarded more in the supplemental grant category (for previous acquisitions) than normally received.
“Outdoor recreational areas and historic attractions are vital for our community’s health and well-being,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “They provide a sanctuary for revitalization, relaxation, and cherished moments with loved ones. We deeply appreciate the grants from NJDEP, which enable us to enhance our county parks and landmarks. These renovations will make them more inclusive and enjoyable for all visitors.” Top of Form
Below is a breakdown of the active recreation and stewardship grants:
Jake’s Law Grant: To develop and construct a completely inclusive playground • This grant is a 75/25 match. Union County requested and received $915,000.00, with a County match of $312,500 for a playground at Warinanco Park.
Urban Parks Grant: To develop and construct a playground in an Adversely Stressed Overburdened Community in, or easily accessible to, an Urban Aid municipality • This grant does not have a matching component. Union County requested and received $500,000.00 for a playground upgrade in Rahway River Park.
Local Park Development and Stewardship Projects Grant: To restore and protect natural resources and Historic Landscapes • This grant is a 50/50 matching grant. Union County requested and received $239,900 for landscape restoration work at the Homestead Farmhouse at Oak Ridge Park
“We’re excited to announce that Union County has secured 100% of our NJDEP/Green Acres Program grants this year, including extra funding in supplemental grants,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Chairman of the Union County Open Space Trust Fund. “Our sincere gratitude goes to all County residents who actively participated in the community outreach surveys and contributed to the initial planning of these projects. These grants signify trust in our initiatives and acknowledge the positive impact they have on the community, enhancing outdoor spaces for Union County residents.”
The total amount in grants awarded to the County of Union this round was $3,754,900. This includes $2.1 million in supplemental grants received from previous acquisitions.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the Local Advisory Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse (LACADA) Annual Municipal Volunteers of the Year (VOY), who were honored at the annual Volunteer Recognition Ceremony, Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at the Galloping Hill Caterers, 325 Chestnut Street, Union, NJ. The event coincides with National Volunteer Week 2024 (April 21st – April 27th) & Alcohol Awareness Month (April).
“The Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly recognized the dedication of Municpal Alliance volunteers who tirelessly promote healthy lifestyles and combat substance misuse within our communities,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “We honored the selflessness, dedication, and compassion embodied by our volunteers, the backbone of our County, who actively create positive change. The statstics from 2023, represent not just numbers, but testimonies to the power of community, the strength of collaboration, and the beauty of selfless service.”
This year the Commissioners, through the County’s Department of Human Services, Division of Individual and Family Support Services, are proud to honor the volunteers and staff who work tirelessly to prevent alcoholism and drug misuse throughout the year. At last night’s annual Volunteer Recognition Ceremony the following were honored:
2024 Municipal Volunteers of the Year o Plainfield: Detective Jesse McNiell, Jr. o Roselle Park: Ana Amu Chacon o Elizabeth: Julian Robles 2024 Union County Municipal Volunteer of the Year o Elizabeth: Julian Robles
Remarks were delivered by Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, Union County Commissioner and LACADA Liaison James E. Baker, Jr., Debbie-Ann Anderson, Director of Union County Department of Human Services, and Carol Berger, Chair of the Local Advisory Committee on Alcoholism & Drug Abuse (LACADA). The keynote address was delivered by Jill Hall, FY2022 VOY Winner, Union HS Student Assistant Counselor.
By state law, members of the Municipal Alliance are appointed by the governing body (Board of County Commissioners) from a variety of community stakeholders including representation from education, health, law enforcement, faith-based entities, business, civic groups, non-profit organizations, and government officials. Municipal Alliance members develop alcohol and substance prevention and treatment plans to address local priorities. These plans are reviewed by the LACADA and the Commissioner Board. Funding comes from the state’s Governor’s Council on Substance Use Disorder (GCSUD) and the Board of County Commissioners.
“In my role as the Advisory Board liaison, it was my privilege to speak last night and express our appreciation for the extraordinary individuals in our volunteer community,” said Commissioner James Baker, Liaison to the LACADA Advisory Board. “The passion and commitment each one brings are the catalysts for our progress, propelling us forward with each endeavor. Our volunteers are the driving force behind our initiatives, representing the spirit of selflessness and dedication that sets a standard for us all.”
The most current Municipal Alliance data is from FY2023 (FY2024 statistics are not yet available, as the grant ends 6/30/2024):
• 40,279 citizens participated in County and Municipal Alliance activities. • 52 activities were run by 14 Union County Municipal Alliances. • 940 community members volunteered on their local Municipal Alliance activities. • 228 community members have volunteered on their Municipal Alliance committees. • 7 Community members have volunteered on the Local Advisory Committee on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse (LACADA). • 6 Community members have volunteered on the County Alliance Steering Sub-committee (CASS).
In 2024, Union County will receive $244,862 from the state for Municipal Alliance activities.
For more information about Union County’s substance misuse services, please contact the Union County Department of Human Services, Division of Individual and Family Support Services, by calling (908) 527-4844 or online at https://ucnj.org/dhs/alliance.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce a Job Fair: Opportunities in Cannabis Industry on Thursday, May 9th from 10:00am-2:00pm at the UCNJ Union College of Union County NJ in Elizabeth. This job fair is a collective effort of the Board of County Commissioners and the American Job Center.
“The cannabis industry is vital for both recreational enjoyment and medical relief, meeting the diverse needs of many people, said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Cannabis is known to treat a range of ailments including chronic pain, nausea, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and symptoms associated with cancer and HIV/AIDS. Embracing both aspects, the industry promotes holistic well-being, empowering individuals to lead healthier lives. We encourage anyone looking for employment opportunities to join us on May 9th.”
The Cannabis Job Fair will be held at UCNJ Union College of Union County NJ’s Elizabeth campus, located at 40 West Jersey Street in Elizabeth. The fair will run from 10:00am-2:00pm and will host employers looking to fill positions ranging from Cannabis Extraction Technician and Budtender to Reception and Security.
The following businesses will be attending the job fair:
Budzooka
Santuary Cannabis
Mom & Pop Shop
Royal M
Roll Models
NJ Health- info table
Urge
Plantabis
Breakwater Treatment and Wellness
Mojo Botanica
Since our first Cannabis Job Fair in 2023, Union County has seen a remarkable change. From just two dispensaries, we are now home to 12 thriving establishments,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, who also serves as Liaison to the Workforce Development Board. “These dispensaries aren’t just places to buy cannabis—they are centers of employment. By facilitating connections between job seekers and employers in this rapidly growing sector, we are not only promoting economic development but also ensuring that Union County remains at the forefront of this emerging industry.
The New Jersey cannabis industry has experienced an extraordinary surge of growth in 2024, especially compared to the previous year. With legislative changes and regulatory updates, the industry has expanded rapidly, leading to a significant increase in the number of dispensaries and growing facilities across the state. This surge has not only increased job opportunities, but has also improved access to both medicinal and recreational cannabis products.
Interested residents should visit http:// www.ucnj.org/job-fair to register. For more information, or to learn how your business can participate in the Cannabis Job Fair, please contact Carolina Marin at astrid.marin@ucnj.org.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Union County are hosting their 33rd annual Spring Garden Fair and Plant Sale on Sunday, May 19th from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Demonstration Garden of the Trailside Nature and Science Center, located within the Watchung Reservation at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside.
“The Spring Garden Fair is an excellent opportunity to support the efforts of our Master Gardener volunteers while refreshing your garden or dinner table with new plants and produce,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Additionally, all proceeds from the fair will be used to fund additional horticultural programs for our community. Join us in supporting this worthy cause while enjoying a fun and informative event.”
The Spring Garden fair showcases a wide variety of vegetable transplants, native and ornamental perennials, annual flowers, and houseplants for sale. Home gardeners can seek advice at the Master Gardener Garden Helpline and Square Foot Gardening demonstration tables. The 4-H Master Tree Stewards will host a children’s activity, and visitors are invited to explore the 24 themed garden beds situated in the Demonstration Garden.
This free event will be held rain or shine on May 19th. Visitors are advised that all sales are cash only, and are recommended to bring a small wagon to transport their purchases. Service animals are welcome, but pets will not be allowed.
Free parking is available throughout the Trailside Nature and Science Center parking lot and the Scout Camping Area in the Watchung Reservation.
“We are thrilled to announce the return of this event to Trailside for yet another season, and are equally proud of our partnership with the Rutgers Cooperative Extension and the Master Gardeners, who work tirelessly to make our community a more vibrant and beautiful place to live,” said Liaison to the Rutgers Cooperative Extension, Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski.
The Spring Garden Fair and Plant Sale is organized each year by the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Union County, an all-volunteer organization run by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County and supported in part by the Commissioner Board. They create and run programs for the public including educational workshops and horticulture programs for people with special needs. The centerpiece of the program is the 1.5-acres Union County Demonstration Garden, located adjacent to the Trailside Nature and Science Center in the Watchung Reservation, at 152 New Providence Road in Mountainside.
Ballots will be mailed to voters in bright yellow envelopes
Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that Vote by Mail Ballots are being mailed to all registered Voters on the permanent vote by mail list in Union County. The process will take about a week with over 50,000 ballots being sent out. The ballots are sent in bright yellow envelopes to help voters avoid misplacing their ballot.
County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi advises voters that the Democratic primary vote by mail ballot will look dramatically different due to a statewide court order mandating an office-block format for this primary election. The order prohibits the use of the organizational line for Democrats although slogans are permitted. The Republican ballot is not affected and will appear as it usually does.
Ms. Rajoppi urges voters to review the ballot carefully before voting. Voters are urged to contact the Clerk’s office with any concerns or questions.
http://UnionCountyVotes.comVoters can view the updated schedule of mailings on the County Clerk’s elections website, at UnionCountyVotes.com. The schedule is also available on the County Clerk’s free mobile app, UC Votes. Ms. Rajoppi has a “How to Vote a Vote by Mail Ballot” video on the Clerks website to assist voters with the process of filling them out and Mailing the ballots back. Residents can view the video at: https://unioncountyvotes.com/vote-by-mail-ballot-application/.
Voters can choose several ways to return their Vote by Mail ballot as early as possible before Election Day: by Postal Service (postage is pre-paid), secure drop-off box, or hand delivery to the County Clerk’s offices or Board of Elections office.
The drop-off boxes are available on a 24/7 basis until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 when the polls close.
The Board of Elections office will be open for voters to hand deliver their vote by mail ballots until 8:00 p.m. on June 4th. Voters who hand deliver their ballots to this office must sign a registry and present a valid New Jersey driver’s license or other New Jersey identification.
For more details, including the location of offices, drop-off boxes, and polling places, visit 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.
