4-H MORE THAN ANIMALS AND AGRICULTURE
From Our Offices
GET TO KNOW Helping families navigate life changes Led by Surrogate Claribel Cortes since March 2021, the Middlesex County Office of the Surrogate provides vital support to residents in a variety of legal matters, such as: ADOPTIONS. The Surrogate’s Office oversees all adoption cases and records in Middlesex County, including reviewing and filing all documentation to ensure compliance with court regulations and the timely scheduling of court hearings. GUARDIANSHIPS. The Surrogate’s Office handles applications for guardianship, a legal request an individual can make on behalf of another individual who cannot make their own decisions, such as a minor or an adult with impaired capacity. PROBATE. When a person passes away, the Surrogate’s Office helps the family with a legal process called probate to help them settle their loved one’s estate. Whether the deceased person has a will or not, their estate must go through the Surrogate’s Court to ensure that all requirements are met.
Middlesex County Office of the Surrogate
RECORDS. The Surrogate’s Office manages requests such as estate searches, certified and exemplified copies, certificates, and more within its Records Department. “The Office of the Surrogate helps individuals and families with important life changes every day, making every effort to ensure the process goes as smoothly and efficiently as possible,” said Cortes. For more information or assistance regarding these matters or anything else handled by the Office of the Surrogate, please visit middlesexcountynj.gov/surrogate or call 732-745-3055.
With over 20 clubs, special interest programs, educational initiatives, public speaking programs, and more to choose from, today’s 4-H offers opportunities far beyond the traditional focus on animals and agriculture. The Middlesex County 4-H Youth Development Program helps children and teens thrive by providing the tools they need to grow into confident leaders. Operated within the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Middlesex County, this volunteer-led program is supported by the Board of County Commissioners and fosters leadership, citizenship, and a strong sense of community. “The Middlesex County 4-H Youth Development Program provides our children and teens with hands-on learning, leadership skills, and community service experience,” said County Commissioner Chanelle Scott McCullum, chair of the Economic Development Committee. “4-H helps shape future leaders while making a meaningful impact on our community. The Board of County Commissioners is proud to support this invaluable program.” A PLACE FOR EVERY YOUNG MIND Open to Middlesex County youth from kindergarten through one year out of high school, the Middlesex County 4-H Youth Development Program offers traditional clubs and activities involving animals and agriculture, as well as art, chess, robotics, and more! Annual membership costs just $25 for insurance, with some clubs requiring a small additional fee. County’s 4-H Youth Development Program empowers children and teens though leadership, learning, and community service.
4-H also offers a summer camp that is open to ALL youth — even those not enrolled in 4-H. Activities include archery, outdoor cooking, arts and crafts, science projects, leadership training, and more. BRINGING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER From “Cookies with Santa” to a mental health fair for teens, 4-H clubs organize events that are open to the entire community. Many of these events also support meaningful causes. Among them, the 4-H Haunted House and Hayride that helps fund 4-H’s Project Gift, an initiative that for over 25 years has provided gifts, food, and clothing to families in need during the holiday season. For more information about the Middlesex County 4-H Youth Development Program, visit middlesexcountynj.gov, and search “4-H.”
2025 Middlesex County Employee of the Year: Gregg“o” Christopher!
During the annual Celebrate Middlesex County event on June 14, the County announced Gregg“o” Christopher as the 2025 Employee of the Year for his invaluable contributions to the Office of Parks and Recreation. Christopher has been with the County for 34 years and serves as a general supervisor, in charge of Roosevelt Park, Merrill Park, Middlesex Greenway, and the Middlesex County Tree Crew. From preserving and beautifying the parks for public enjoyment to creating unforgettable experiences for residents’ special occasions, he is dedicated to ensuring the County’s parks remain a treasured space for the community. Expressing his thanks for this recognition, Christopher highlighted the vital role his team plays in maintaining the parks, saying he shares the award with all of them. “It feels outstanding; it’s an amazing feeling. I have the credit for it, but it’s a full team effort,” said Christopher. “From the girls in the office to the guys who work with me every day… I can name 20-30 people who deserve this award.”
LET YOUR KIDS THRIVE WITH MIDDLESEX COUNTY 4-H!
Help the kids in your life discover new interests, build leadership skills, and make lifelong friends.
Training and support are provided to help ensure this is a rewarding experience for all!
ADULT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Call 732-398-5261 or email 4H.information@co.middlesex.nj.us for info
Gregg “o” Christopher, general supervisor in the County Office of Parks and Recreation
middlesexcountynj.gov 13
12 Your Middlesex | 2025 Issue 2
Made with FlippingBook - Online Brochure Maker