News

News from the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners

Shanel Y. Robinson, Commissioner Director Ÿ Doug Singleterry, Commissioner Deputy Director

Sara Sooy, Commissioner Ÿ Melonie Marano, Commissioner Ÿ Paul M. Drake, Commissioner

For Immediate Release

September 20, 2023

Somerset County Selects Fifteen Local Artists to Advance to 2023 State Senior Citizen Art Show

SOMERVILLE, NJ – Local artists were recently honored by the Somerset County Board of Commissioners, the Cultural & Heritage Commission and the Office on Aging and Disability Services for their contributions to the 2023 Senior Art Show. The exhibit, which featured artwork in sixteen media categories, was displayed in the atrium lobby of the County Administration Building in Somerville. Fifteen out of 39 artists were selected to advance to the 2023 State Senior Citizen Art Show, which will take place in East Windsor, NJ, beginning Sept. 30 through Oct. 26.

Somerset County Commissioners Melonie Marano and Paul M. Drake both attended the 2023 Senior Art Show reception to commend the winners for their artwork.

“It’s wonderful to see these amazing pieces of art as you walk through the building,” said Commissioner Paul M. Drake, liaison to the Office on Aging and Disability Services. “The artwork is stunning and diverse, and I’m looking forward to hearing who the finalists will be in the state art show.”

“The winners should feel proud they were selected. The competition was tough since all of the artwork submitted was above average,” said Commissioner Melonie Marano, liaison to Cultural & Heritage. “We are proud of the talent that will be representing the county in the state show.”

All of the art contributed by seniors is available to view in a virtual gallery on the Somerset County website.

Local artist Cathleen Thole, who has over 25 years of experience in illustration, graphic design, and commercial art instruction, selected fifteen winners from the “Professional” and “Non-professional” categories.
 

Winners of the “Professional” Category

The following nine artists won in the “Professional” category and will advance to the 2023 State Senior Citizen Art Show: Branchburg resident Leokadia Stanik, print, “Unexpected Visitors;” Bridgewater resident Terry Mayfield, mixed media, “Guardian of the Freedom Flame;” Hillsborough residents Wayne R. Mathisen, acrylic painting, “Sentinel Sycamores” and J. Michael Williams, photography, “Portrait of a Young Fox;” Manville resident Toni Marchick, oil painting, “Together;” Martinsville resident Donna Souren, watercolor, “Summer Lily at Buck Gardens;” Somerset residents Ed Caravana, digital, “Luminosity” and Frank Falotico, pastel, “Ebb and Flow;” and Warren resident Debbie Limoli, sculpture, “Something Sheepish.”

Winners of the “Non-Professional” Category
The following six artists won in the “Non-Professional” category: Basking Ridge resident Allan Luisi, photography, “Fall Classic;” Far Hills resident Kate Creegan, works on paper, “One Head.” Skillman residents Marian Knight, mixed media, “The Light House” and Hope Pepe, oil painting, “End of the Day;” Somerset resident Nick DeGaetano, acrylic painting “Baroness;” and Warren resident Alison Diner, pastel, “Bar Harbor Sunrise.”

About the 2023 Senior Art Show

The exhibit was co-sponsored by the Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services and made possible by funds from the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.

To stay up-to-date with Somerset County events and information, sign up for free email alerts at www.co.somerset.nj.us/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

News from the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners

Shanel Y. Robinson, Commissioner Director Ÿ Doug Singleterry, Commissioner Deputy Director

Sara Sooy, Commissioner Ÿ Melonie Marano, Commissioner Ÿ Paul Drake, Commissioner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 19, 2023

Somerset County Seeks Volunteers for Fall Leaf Clean-Up Project

Help the Elderly and Individuals with Disabilities Prep for Winter

SOMERVILLE, NJ – The Somerset County Office of Volunteer Services seeks individuals and groups to volunteer for its annual Fall Leaf Clean-Up project. Volunteers will rake leaves for elderly and disabled homeowners who are unable to do their yard work. Volunteer Services encourages residents to sign up early so they can serve as many people as possible. The project will take place on Nov. 18.

Volunteering allows residents an opportunity to give back to their communities. Friends, families, church groups, sports teams, Girl Scouts and Boy Scout Troops, 4-H Clubs, high school clubs, or other groups are welcome to sign up for the annual tradition.

All volunteers must register as a team of at least four adults or the youth-strength equivalent. Any group containing youth must include at least one adult. A group can consist of people who form a temporary team for this event, even if they are not a formal club or organization.

Details About the Fall Leaf Clean-Up Project

The annual leaf clean-up project is a one-day event that will take place on Saturday, Nov. 18. Anyone who would like to volunteer but cannot make it on Nov. 18, is welcome to schedule an alternative date and time through the Office of Volunteer Services.

Volunteers MUST provide their personal tools for this event. Leaf blowers are STRONGLY ENCOURAGED. Rakes and tarps are required.

To register online, please fill out this form or call the Somerset County Office of Volunteer Services at 908-704-6301. Volunteers can also email VolunteerSvs@co.somerset.nj.us.

Individuals Who Need Volunteers Services
Elderly Somerset County Residents or individuals with disabilities who need leaf raking services can call the Office of Volunteer Services AFTER Oct. 2 at 908-704-6301 or email VolunteerSvs@co.somerset.nj.us.

About the Office of Volunteer Services
The goal of the Somerset County Office of Volunteer Services is to make an impact and strengthen communities by assisting residents to improve their quality of life.

To stay up-to-date with Somerset County events and information, sign up at www.co.somerset.nj.us/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

# # #

News from the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners

Shanel Y. Robinson, Commissioner Director Ÿ Doug Singleterry, Commissioner Deputy Director

Sara Sooy, Commissioner Ÿ Melonie Marano, Commissioner Ÿ Paul M. Drake, Commissioner

September 19, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Leadership Somerset Offers Virtual Information Sessions

Find out more about the community leadership program and interact with alumni

Adults who live or work in Somerset County are invited to learn more about Leadership Somerset, a community leadership program, by attending one of our virtual Information Sessions on Sept. 29, Oct. 13 or Oct. 19. Benefits of the program include networking with local leaders, learning more about Somerset County and making a positive impact in the community.

“I am a proud Leadership Somerset alum. I invite people to join one of our virtual Information Sessions to learn more about this wonderful, diverse program,” said Commissioner Melonie Marano, program liaison. “These sessions give you an opportunity to ask questions of alumni and find out what their personal experience was like.”

Registration is required in advance for the information sessions by visiting https://bit.ly/LSInfoSessions2023 or by clicking on one of the dates below:

Friday, Sept. 29 – 1 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 13 – 9 a.m.

Thursday, Oct. 19 – 4:30 p.m.

“Leadership Somerset is held one day a month, beginning in January, and each session focuses on a different topic. Participants will interact with local leaders on topics like government, economy, justice and public safety, human services, community health and the environment,” said Commissioner Paul Drake, program liaison. “Throughout the year, class members also will discuss capacities of positive leadership and may enjoy class trips, which offer new perspectives and access to a variety of resources.”

To find out more about Leadership Somerset, the 2024 Class Schedule, and requirements for the program, visit www.co.somerset.nj.us/LS_Apply. The deadline for applications is Oct. 31.

The majority of the cost to attend the year-long adult leadership program is underwritten by the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners.  Leadership Somerset participants are asked to contribute a program fee of $450 for the year, which covers participation in all sessions, materials and lunches.  Limited scholarships based on financial need are available.  Applications, which are due by Tuesday, Oct. 31, can be found at  LS Application 2024.

For more information, visit our website at www.leadershipsomerset.org or contact us at LeadershipSomerset@co.somerset.nj.us. Discover Leadership Somerset on Facebook.

# # #

For Immediate Release

September 18, 2023

Somerset County to Sponsor Disability Services Expo, Job, and Volunteer Fair

Register for Free Transportation to Expo by Sept. 25

SOMERVILLE, NJ – Somerset County residents with disabilities and family members will have an opportunity to learn about services and job opportunities available to them at a free expo in Bridgewater in October. Sponsored by the Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services, the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board, and the Somerset County Library Systems, the expo will “connect people with disabilities to community services and career opportunities.”

The event occurs on Thursday, Oct. 5, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Senior Wellness Center at Bridgewater, located at 876 E. Main Street, Bridgewater.

This expo is a unique “one-stop shopping” opportunity for all county residents who want to meet representatives from more than 30 county, state, local agencies and businesses as well as obtain information about income-based services and programs, such as Medicaid, property and tax reimbursement programs and more. The venue is valuable for anyone who wants to learn about the many services available to Somerset County residents.

Job Seekers

Participants seeking employment should “dress to impress” and bring their resumes. Parents and job coaches are welcome.

Parking

Free parking will be available at the Senior Wellness Center at Bridgewater and next to the senior wellness center at TD Bank Ballpark on 860 E Main St, in Bridgewater, NJ.

Free Transportation

Free shuttle service will be available through the Somerset County Transportation Division’s paratransit services. Residents must register for transportation by Monday, Sept. 25.

To register for transportation and for more information, contact the Somerset County Office on Aging & Disability Services Coordinator Sandra Avellan at 908-704-6334 or send an email to Savellan@co.somerset.nj.us.

To stay up-to-date with Somerset County events and information, sign up for free email alerts at www.co.somerset.nj.us/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 18, 2023

BRANCHBURG, NJ – The Somerset County Division of Solid Waste Management is holding its free drop-off events for residents to safely dispose of their harmful household hazardous waste items. The event will be held on Saturday, Sept. 23, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Branchburg Township Public Works Garage, located at 34 Kenbury Road, Branchburg, NJ 08876.

Social Distancing Guidelines

Residents must stay in their vehicles. Materials should be stored in residents’ trunks, cargo areas, or truck beds and items must be accessible to the staff, so they can easily remove items from their vehicles.  

Proof of Residency

Residents must be prepared to show a current driver’s license, valid lease, tax bill or any other bill with a Somerset County address. Pre-registration is not required. Businesses or commercial vehicles are NOT allowed.

Accepted Hazardous Waste Items

Banned or outdated pesticides, antifreeze, transmission fluid, brake fluid, wet-cell car batteries, motor oil (five-gallon maximum), fluorescent tubes and compact fluorescent light bulbs, ammonia-based cleaners, gasoline, kerosene, mercury switches, oil-based paints, pool chemicals, latex-based paint, propane tanks and rechargeable and button-cell batteries.

Items Not Accepted

DO NOT drop off tires, or electronics (computers and televisions), infectious waste, gas cylinders, smoke detectors, air conditioners, or dehumidifiers.

For more information about the types and quantities of materials that will be accepted at the event, contact the Somerset County Division of Solid Waste Management at 908-231-7109, send an email to solidwaste@co.somerset.nj.us or visit www.co.somerset.nj.us/HHW.

For more information about recycling electronics, contact the Somerset County Division of Solid Waste Management at 908-231-7109, email solidwaste@co.somerset.nj.us or visit www.co.somerset.nj.us/e-waste.

A complete list of recyclable items, recycling drop-off events (First Saturday of the Month, Household Hazardous Waste, RX, E-waste and Tire disposal) is available at www.co.somerset.nj.us/recycle.

To stay up to date with Somerset County events and information, sign up for free email alerts at www.co.somerset.nj.us/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

# # #

News from the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners

Shanel Y. Robinson, Commissioner Director Ÿ Doug Singleterry, Commissioner Deputy Director

Sara Sooy, Commissioner Ÿ Melonie Marano, Commissioner Ÿ Paul Drake, Commissioner

For Immediate Release

September 13, 2023

Somerset County Invites Public to Provide Feedback on Draft Transportation Plan at Virtual Meeting on Sept. 28

SOMERVILLE, NJ – The Somerset County Planning Board invites residents to learn about recommendations and provide feedback for the “Keep Somerset Moving: Transportation Plan 2045” study. A virtual meeting will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 28. To register, click here or visit somersetcounty.mysocialpinpoint.com.

After a brief PowerPoint presentation, there will be several online breakout rooms where participants will have the opportunity to provide feedback about the proposed plan and its policies and procedures. Spanish captioning will be available, and the presentation will be recorded.

“One major priority is improving our transportation systems and helping residents easily and affordably get to their classes, jobs, medical appointments, shopping, and other necessary appointments,” said Commissioner Director Shanel Y. Robinson in her 2023 Somerset County inauguration speech. “This is not only about improving Somerset County’s program but it’s also about partnering with the NJTPA and our municipalities in a comprehensive effort.”

The County is seeking public input about the proposed transportation plan, which aims to improve mobility and travel throughout the County by:

• Maintaining and enhancing the county’s transportation system
• Considering the needs of residents and their mode of transportation when maintaining and enhancing the County’s transportation system
• Implementing public input about the decision-making plans, policies, and projects for the transportation system
• Ensuring the needs of underserved communities are addressed during the transportation-planning process
• Developing projects for a six-year County Capital Improvement Program
• Collaborating with municipal and state agencies about land use and transportation-planning decisions
• Addressing environmental concerns such as traffic congestion and safety

The “Keep Somerset Moving: Transportation Plan 2045” replaces the award-winning 2011 “County Circulation Plan: Making Connections.” The county Office of Planning, Policy and Economic Development is guiding the development of the new transportation plan, which will be included as part of the County Master Plan.

To register for the meeting, visit somersetcounty.mysocialpinpoint.com or click here to register.

Submit comments at KeepSomersetMoving@co.somerset.nj.us. To learn more about the Keep Somerset Moving: Transportation Plan 2045, click here or visit somersetcounty.mysocialpinpoint.com.

Grants From the NJPTA
Somerset County received a Subregional Planning Studies grant from the New Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) to update its 2011 County Circulation Plan.

Somerset County Office of Planning, Policy and Economic Development
The Somerset County Office of Planning, Policy and Economic Development helps government officials, business leaders, and citizens create communities that offer better choices for where and how people work and live by positively influencing the process of growth and change in the county. The division also helps build an optimum living and working environment for residents and employers by protecting the natural environment and preserving the county’s rich history, farmland, and natural beauty while supporting sustainable economic growth and job creation.

To stay up-to-date with Somerset County events and information, sign up for free email alerts at www.co.somerset.nj.us/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

News from the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners

Shanel Y. Robinson, Commissioner Director Ÿ Doug Singleterry, Commissioner Deputy Director

Sara Sooy, Commissioner Ÿ Melonie Marano, Commissioner Ÿ Paul M. Drake, Commissioner

For Immediate Release

September 13, 2023

Somerset County-Operated Senior Wellness Centers Seeking Volunteers for Multiple Openings

SOMERVILLE, NJ – The Office on Aging and Disability Services invites people to volunteer for multiple positions at its six county-operated senior wellness centers.  People searching for a fulfilling and fun opportunity should consider volunteering. Positions such as program and activity leaders, wellness program instructors, team support and food service handlers are available.

Studies have shown volunteering can improve one’s physical and mental health, provide a sense of purpose, teach new skills and nurture new and existing relationships, according to a study conducted by the Mayo Clinic.

“People with spare time should consider volunteering at the senior wellness centers. It’s a great way to give back to the community in a warm and friendly environment,” said Somerset County Commissioner Paul M. Drake, liaison to the Office on Aging and Disability Services. “Volunteers really make a difference in the lives of seniors by providing their services and friendship, which seniors may not have access to outside of the senior wellness centers.”

Volunteer Opportunities

The county-operated senior wellness centers provide a wide range of wellness and education programs for lifelong enrichment in an uplifting atmosphere.  Some of the open volunteer positions include:

• Program/Activity Leader – Choose to teach art classes, lead dance classes, provide computer instruction, present programs about history, music, science, and literature, or teach mind-stimulating games, such as Mahjong, Bridge and Pinochle.
• Wellness Program Instructor – Lead yoga, tai chi, Zumba or meditation classes.
• Evidence-Based Program Leader – Teach ways to promote health and prevent disease among older adults through GeriFit, self-management programs, Bingocize and fall prevention curriculums. Training is available.
• Team Support Volunteer – Serve in the senior center’s reception area, write promotional blurbs about upcoming events, and call clients to promote upcoming events.
• Food Service Volunteer – Help pack meals for the Home Delivered Meals program, portion and serve lunch for the congregate meal program, bus tables and assist with clean up.

Guidelines

• Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older.
• All volunteers must pass a criminal history background check, which will be conducted by the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office at no cost to the individual.

For more information, contact Kati Domen at the Office on Aging & Disability Services via email Domen@co.somerset.nj.us or call 908-704-6220.

About the Office on Aging and Disability Services
The Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services manages the county-operated senior wellness centers and is also a local agency for ensuring seniors (60+), adults with disabilities (18+) and their caregivers have easy access to information, as well as long-term services and support.

To stay up-to-date with Somerset County events and information, sign up for free email alerts at www.co.somerset.nj.us/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.