The Your Middlesex Magazine is a 16-page publication produced three times a year and mailed to every household in Middlesex County, NJ. The magazine shares the latest news and events from around Middlesex County. It also features information on programs, initiatives, and capital projects spearheaded by County offices for the benefit of residents and the business community -- to ensure Middlesex County is the best place to live, work, and play. This magazine is produced on behalf of the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners.
2024 ISSUE 3 YOUR MIDDLESEX Ma g a z i n e
CONTENTS 02 AROUND THE COUNTY News and updates from County elected officials 04 INVESTING IN THE FUTURE
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Shanti Narra, Deputy Director Chair, Public Safety & Health Committee Claribel A. Azcona-Barber Chair, Community Services Committee Charles Kenny Chair, Transportation Committee Ronald G. Rios, Director Chair, Administration, Ex-Officio Chair of All Committees
Middlesex County is building the economy of the future through investments in education and workforce development, and support for businesses and entrepreneurs
fitness for all .
06 GET READY:
The County’s CIO Strategic Investment Plan will transform the Middlesex College campus — and Middlesex County — into a regional destination
08 GOSPEL MUSIC FESTIVAL
Check out images from the inaugural Gospel Music Festival 10 FOCUSING ON HEALTH AND WELLNESS New Middlesex County Public Health Center opens, providing comprehensive care to underserved residents 12 WINTER IS COMING County offers mental health services to help fight the winter blues
Leslie Koppel Chair, Finance Committee
From tai chi to art in the park, the brand-new destination in Middlesex County will be all that and more. The perfect place to enjoy fitness, festivals, sports games and entertainment is
Chanelle Scott McCullum Chair, Economic Development Committee
coming to Middlesex County in 2026! DiscoverMiddlesex.com/Destination
Charles E. Tomaro Chair, Infrastructure Committee
THE COVER
CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS
SCAN TO VIEW MAGAZINE OR CONNECT WITH US ONLINE, OR CALL 732-745-3000
Nancy J. Pinkin County Clerk
THE AGE OF JAZZ. Michael Arenella and His Dreamland Orchestra treated the crowd at East Jersey Old Town Village to a tasty musical feast that rivaled the parties of the great Jay Gatsby during this year’s Middlesex County Roaring 20s Jazz Party. For additional photos and to learn more about the event, please turn to page 9. From live music and theater to art and history exhibits, cultural gatherings, and interactive events the whole family can enjoy — there’s always something interesting to do in Middlesex County! Visit MiddlesexCountyCulture.com for ideas and all the information you need to plan your next adventure!
Mildred S. Scott Sheriff
ABOUT THE MAGAZINE The Your Middlesex Magazine is a 16-page publication produced three times a year and mailed to every household in Middlesex County, NJ. The magazine shares the latest news and events from around Middlesex County. It also features information on programs, initiatives, and capital projects spearheaded by County offices for the benefit of residents and the business community – to ensure Middlesex County is the best place to live, work, and play. This magazine is produced on behalf of the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners.
Claribel Cortes Surrogate
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Around the County
HEALTH CENTER NAMED AFTER COUNTY AROUND THE COMMISSIONER DIRECTOR RIOS
County Commissioners Azcona-Barber and Kenny, along with constituents, raise the Guatemalan flag on September 20
COUNTY HOSTS STATEWIDE EVENT ON ECONOMIC IMPACT OF ARTS AND CULTURE The County welcomed Choose New Jersey and economic development officials from various counties to the legendary State Theatre New Jersey to explore how arts and culture drive economic growth and transform communities. The event featured panel discussions moderated by Director of Middlesex County Arts Institute Lindsay Erben and workshops about programs from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, The New Jersey Business Action Center, The Grunin Foundation, the State Theatre New Jersey, the New Jersey Council on the Arts, and others.
Policy Summit included presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities to collaborate, identify how the housing landscape will change, and scope out how governments, advocacy groups, and businesses must respond to the new law.
have become part of the legacy of the County, the state, and the nation. COUNTY FIGHTS OPIOID EPIDEMIC WITH 24-HOUR HEALTHCARE KIOSKS In an effort to end the nationwide opioid epidemic’s impact on Middlesex County, in September, 24-Hour Middlesex County Healthcare Kiosks were installed in New Brunswick and Woodbridge. Funded by Middlesex County, the fully automated kiosks offer access to harm reduction services and naloxone, as well as information about wellness and recovery, when people need it. For access to additional support and services, residents should visit middlesexcountynj.gov/ services .
COUNTY
On September 27, County Commissioner Director Rios was honored for his lifetime of public service with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and dedication of the Ronald G. Rios Medical Pavilion at Central Jersey Medical Center. Located on Roosevelt Avenue in Rios’ hometown of Carteret, the Ronald G. Rios Medical Pavilion will provide medical and dental services to members of the community. SHERIFF’S OFFICE ATTAINS 4TH REACCREDITATION AWARD The Office of the County Sheriff received its fourth reaccreditation award from the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP), a feat achieved by less than 8% of New Jersey’s 550 law enforcement agencies. The NJSACOP
FUN FACT Now known as the
SCAN TO FIND SERVICES
Middlesex County Magnet Schools, this high-ranking school district was the first county vocational school system in the U.S.
professional standards, many with multiple objectives. To earn accreditation, agencies must demonstrate compliance with best practice standards across five critical areas: administration, personnel, operations, investigations, and arrestee and detainee functions. First accredited in 2013, the Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office is one of only 10 accredited sheriff’s offices in the state. WOODBRIDGE ACADEMY MAGNET SCHOOL NAMED NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL Woodbridge Academy Magnet School was
schools nationwide to achieve this designation in 2024. This is the second time Woodbridge Academy has been named a National Blue Ribbon School and the fourth designation for a District school. Earlier this year, the NJ Department of Education ranked Woodbridge Academy number one among all New Jersey high schools. COUNTY HOSTS HOUSING POLICY SUMMIT ON HOME AFFORDABILITY In the wake of the most significant changes to New Jersey’s affordable housing legislation in four decades, the County’s Office of Human Services volunteer advocacy group, the Human Services Advisory Council (HSAC), invited experts, municipal leaders, and non- profit groups from the housing community to clarify the new law and discuss how it will change the affordable housing landscape in the region. The HSAC Housing
COUNTY HOSTS FLAG RAISINGS HONORING VARIOUS CULTURES Throughout the year, the Board of County Commissioners holds flag- raising ceremonies to celebrate the diversity of people and cultures in Middlesex County. The County has hosted several flag raisings over the past few months, including ones celebrating the Colombian, Jamaican, Lebanese, Mexican,
FUN FACT The first intercollegiate ultimate frisbee game took place at Rutgers University, New Brunswick on Nov. 6, 1972. Rutgers beat Princeton University 29 to 27.
Guatemalan, and Polish cultures. Typically led by County Commissioner Kenny, these
named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S.
flag-raising ceremonies
Department of Education in recognition of exceptional teaching and learning. It is one of only 11 schools in New Jersey and just 356
are a time to reflect on the people and cultures whose contributions
Accreditation Program consists of 112 rigorous
Middlesex County Sheriff Mildred S. Scott, Undersheriff David Irizarry, and members of the Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office accept the Fourth Reaccreditation Award from NJSACOP Accreditation Program Director Harry Delgado
County Commissioner Azcona-Barber joins constituents in celebrating the Mexican flag raising
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Building the Future
County Makes Strategic Educational Investment in Heldrich Hotel and Conference Center
Coming 2026!
HVAC or electrical, and more. Students will learn from the expertise of unionized Heldrich employees to continue to serve and support the hospitality needs of residents, visitors, business leaders, corporate partners, and athletes. To learn more about Middlesex County’s educational investment in The Heldrich Hotel and Conference Center, please visit middlesexcountynj.gov and type “Heldrich Hotel” in the search bar.
In August, Middlesex County announced its strategic investment in The Heldrich Hotel and Conference Center as part of its ongoing commitment to education. Through consolidation of ownership of this iconic New Brunswick hotel, the County will expand its innovative and holistic economic strategy of providing interactive, hands-on learning to County residents — strengthening and accelerating workforce development and fueling regional economic growth. Middlesex College and Middlesex County Magnet Schools students will benefit from new job opportunities, career paths, and expanded educational offerings. Modeled after the RWJBarnabas Health Workforce Partnership, new or enhanced curriculums will be developed to provide a clear path for County students to take advantage of this unprecedented access to work-based education at an operational hotel, serving real guests, which will bolster the future talent pipeline in the County. The 375,000-square-foot, 11-story property will be re-imagined as a professional development hub for a range of studies including hospitality, culinary, construction management, business administration, trades including
CIO Strategic Investment Plan Set to Make the Middlesex College Campus a Premier Destination
Middlesex County is on the brink of a remarkable transformation with progress on the Community, Innovation, and Opportunity (CIO) Strategic Investment Plan, which will break ground soon. As a pivotal part of the County’s Destination 2040 Strategic Plan, this forward-thinking initiative — a collaborative effort with the State of New Jersey — is designed to create unmatched opportunities for residents of all ages. The CIO Strategic Investment Plan is not just an educational investment — it’s a visionary roadmap that promises to enhance the quality of life for the entire community. By expanding the offerings at Middlesex College and the Middlesex County Magnet Schools system, the plan will elevate the College to a dynamic destination that goes beyond academics. The campus and its surrounding areas will soon be alive with new activities and cultural experiences, welcoming families and individuals from across the region. By bringing together the leadership of Middlesex College, the Magnet Schools, and the Workforce Development Board on a single, cohesive campus, it will create a robust environment for students of all ages — from high schoolers to adult learners — preparing them for success in the future job market. The future of Middlesex County is bright, and this initiative ensures that every resident will have the tools and opportunities needed to thrive. For more information on the CIO Strategic Investment plan, visit middlesexcountynj.gov/cioplan .
County Hosts 2024 Business Summit
On October 10, Middlesex County welcomed business owners and entrepreneurs from a variety of industries to its annual Business Summit. Held at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center, the Business Summit included New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, Nokia Bell Labs President Thierry Klein, and New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) CEO Tim Sullivan among its guest speakers. In addition to learning about how Nokia Bell Labs has made some of the world’s most important technological breakthroughs and why they are building their new East Coast
research and development hub in Middlesex County, attendees also learned how the NJEDA helps businesses of all sizes grow and invest in New Jersey. The Business Summit also offered attendees an opportunity to network and build relationships, hear about lessons learned on the front lines, understand and capitalize on emerging market trends, and discuss best practices. For highlights from the 2024 Middlesex County Business Summit, please visit middlesexcountynj.gov/businesssummit .
2024
County Commissioner Director Rios welcomes speakers and guests to the 2024 Middlesex County Business Summit
See more details on the next spread.
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“
Building the Future
For all of us who call Middlesex County home, the CIO strategy will be a game-changer in our economy and the quality of our lives.” County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios
A NEW MIDDLESEX COUNTY MAGNET SCHOOL A 75,550-square-foot Magnet School offering dual enrollment programs for high school students to earn college credits, and new degree programs in Sustainable Energy Technology, Information and Cybersecurity Technology, and Biotechnology.
THOMAS A. EDISON PARK DESTINATION ATHLETIC COMPLEX As part of the CIO Strategic Investment Plan, Middlesex County’s Thomas A. Edison Park in Edison is undergoing major upgrades. The Destination Athletic Complex will feature 14 multi-sport synthetic fields, 16 tennis courts, a 500-foot state-of-the-art recreational cricket field, a fieldhouse with new comfort stations, pedestrian and bicycle paths, and enhanced playground facilities. These improvements, coupled with expanded parking and other amenities, will make the park a leading destination for residents, as well as for local and regional recreation programs and teams. During this transformation, Middlesex County invites residents to explore other County parks. 500-FT DIAMETER CRICKET FIELD 16 TENNIS COURTS 14 MULTI-SPORT FIELDS
MIDDLESEX COLLEGE STUDENT CENTER
A new 30,000-square-foot hub of student life with game rooms, meeting spaces, and a fully operational restaurant. The Culinary Arts Department will use it for hands-on training, preparing students for successful careers.
MULTI-PURPOSE COMMUNITY VENUE A state-of-the-art, 3,500-seat facility designed for concerts, cultural events, and sports, including baseball, soccer, and lacrosse. Built to Big Ten, NCAA, Minor League Baseball, and FIFA standards, it will feature eight premium boxes and full food and beverage services, ensuring a top-tier experience for all.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT & CONFERENCE CENTER Future phases of the CIO Plan include this building, which will be a vital resource for workforce training and professional development. It will help residents gain new skills and advance their careers, aligning education with job market demands and driving economic growth.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE CIO PLAN
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Arts & Culture
“ For the past decade, Middlesex County has prioritized investments in arts, culture, and history — supporting the work of artists and bringing the community together to enjoy wonderful live cultural events like these." County Commissioner Chanelle Scott McCullum
After a successful debut last fall, the County’s Roaring 20s Jazz Party returned to East Jersey Old Town Village on September 14. The Village became a vibrant scene of the 1920s, featuring Michael Arenella and His Dreamland Orchestra performing popular jazz music of the time. Vocalist Risa Branch also performed, and the Canarsie Wobblers offered lessons in dancing the Charleston and other popular dances from the ‘20s. The Roaring 20s Jazz Party honored African American musician James P. Johnson, a New Brunswick native and leading Jazz Age composer and pianist who composed “The Charleston.”
This year, Middlesex County launched FolkLIVE, a series of live musical performances focusing on different cultural communities. The inaugural FolkLIVE performance took place in June when New Brunswick’s Monument Square Park burst to life with a Gospel Music Festival featuring award-winning gospel music icon Hezekiah Walker, rising star Jekalyn Carr, and other leading talent in the genre. This initial FolkLIVE event celebrated the rich history of gospel music and African American culture, highlighting the diverse histories, traditions, and stories that make the Middlesex County community so special.
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From Our Offices
GET TO KNOW Improving Community Safety Through Outstanding Correctional Practices Middlesex County Office of Adult Corrections & Youth Services Setting Standards in Jail Management
Focusing on Health and Wellness: County Opens New Public Health Center
Jails and correctional institutions play a vital role in ensuring community safety, but they may be misunderstood by the public. The Middlesex County Office of Adult Corrections and Youth Services, under the leadership of Warden Mark Cranston, strives to provide the highest degree of public safety to residents by maintaining safe and secure facilities. The Office operates the Adult Correction Center, the Juvenile Detention Center, and the Youth Shelter Program. A Commitment to Public Safety The O ffice of Adult Corrections and Youth Services is dedicated to upholding public safety with the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and preparedness. Staff members undergo extensive training to meet these standards. Advancing Inmate Care Providing high-quality care for inmates is a priority, and the County’s facilities offer comprehensive individual case management that adheres to local, state, and federal healthcare standards. The Juvenile Detention Center and Youth Shelter provide specialized rehabilitative services to foster personal growth and potential in youth.
Since opening in 1984, the Adult Correction Center has been recognized globally for its leadership in Direct Supervision Jail Management. This year, the Adult Correction Center was awarded the National Commission on Correctional Health Care’s (NCCHC)
The July 29 grand opening focused on the pivotal role this larger health center will play in serving uninsured and underinsured County residents. “Middlesex County understands that access to healthcare is fundamental to a high quality of life,” said County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. “The new Public Health Center is a milestone in our efforts to improve public health. We are committed to building a healthier, more resilient community.” Deputy Director of the Board of County Commissioners Shanti Narra highlighted the center’s importance for underserved populations, stating, “This facility is a beacon of hope for uninsured and underinsured residents, offering vital services to improve community health.” For more information about the new Middlesex County Public Health Center, including hours of operation, please visit middlesexcountynj.gov and type “public health center” in the search bar.
Uninsured and underinsured County residents now have expanded access to comprehensive healthcare — including preventative care — thanks to the new Middlesex County Public Health Center. Located at 11 Kennedy Boulevard in East Brunswick and operated by the County Office of Health Services, this 11,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility with 14 exam rooms is a tangible example of the County’s commitment to improving residents’ overall quality of life by ensuring better access to healthcare. The Public Health Center is funded by a $1.5 million grant from the New Jersey Association of County and City Health Officials and the New Jersey Department of Health and offers a range of services, including:
Pinnacle Recognition — the highest honor in correctional health care — in recognition of attaining the NCCHC accreditation in: health services, mental health, and opioid treatment. Correctional leaders worldwide visit to learn from its exemplary practices.
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Child Health Services
Adult Vaccine Services
Sexual Health Services
Turning the Tables on Hunger
County Commissioner Deputy Director Narra and County Commissioner Director Rios with members of the County Department of Public Safety and Health
HIV Counseling and Testing Program
Cancer Education and Early Detection (CEED) Program
Tuberculosis Regional Control Center
As food insecurity remains a national and global issue, REPLENISH hosted its annual Dine Below the Line Hunger Awareness Dinner and Competition. Featuring a culinary face-off between Chef Brian Karluk of Steakhouse 85 and Chef Maricel of Maricel’s Kitchen — with each chef representing a local food pantry — the event showcased how simple pantry staples can be transformed into budget-friendly gourmet meals. Both chefs created flavorful, affordable dishes that captivated over 200 attendees, with Karluk selected as the winner by a panel of celebrity judges.
CANCER EDUCATION AND SCREENINGS AVAILABLE
The Cancer Education and Early Detection (CEED) program, offered by the Office of Health Services, is a vital resource for residents, and provides essential health screenings and education to the County’s uninsured and underinsured population. The program offers information on reducing risk factors and includes screenings for:
SEE SOME RECIPES
PROSTATE CANCER
CERVICAL CANCER
BREAST CANCER
COLORECTAL CANCER
County Commissioners Kenny, Azcona-Barber, Koppel, and Tomaro pose with REPLENISH Director Jennifer Apostol (center, left) and County Surrogate Cortes (center, right)
For more information about cancer screenings, visit middlesexcountynj.gov and search for “CEED Program.”
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W I N T E R IS COMING Help is Available
VIRTUAL RESOURCES Pyx Health, a mobile app available to teens and older adults in Middlesex County, is on a mission to help people suffering from loneliness and social isolation. Middlesex County teamed up with Pyx Health to address these problems, as they tend to contribute to behavioral health issues. Pyx Health can serve as a preventative measure and additional, confidential support to those experiencing loneliness and isolation. Individuals can receive personalized assistance, structured activities, and access to resources tailored to their unique needs. Download the free Pyx Health app on your device and enroll using partner code mccommunity. Residents can also sign up by phone at 1-855-499-4777 (TTY: 711) Additionally, for those needing help with stress, substance use, relationships, physical health, grief, depression, and more, the County recently announced a partnership with CredibleMind. This digital mental health program will give residents access to free and personalized behavioral health resources while tracking users’ progress and keeping their personal information private and secure. To access the CredibleMind platform and all virtual resources go to middlesexcountynj.gov/support . IN-PERSON RESOURCES In addition to these virtual options, Middlesex County operates its own comprehensive community mental health center, the George Otlowski, Sr. Center for Mental Health Care. The Otlowski Center has over 50 years of experience providing mental health services and employs more than 45 licensed professional mental health clinicians (e.g., psychiatrists, advanced practice nurses, and therapists) ready to meet the County’s mental health needs. Call 732-376-6789 today to book an appointment.
County Offers Mental Health Services to Help Fight the Winter Blues
The winter months can bring a variety of mental health challenges that can affect anyone — regardless of age, gender, or economic status. Last year, the United States Surgeon General declared a nationwide mental health crisis, especially among young people. In response, Middlesex County is pioneering new ways to mitigate this crisis, building on existing programs and services to provide a broader range of free or low-cost support to eligible residents, all while working to end the stigma around mental health. Whatever a resident is struggling with, help is available. “The behavioral health crisis impacts so many families and individuals, and ensuring everyone in Middlesex County, particularly among our youth and vulnerable populations, has access to affordable, high-quality mental health care is paramount,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. “We regularly reaffirm our commitment to residents’ mental health by investing in care that centers the individual, treatment, and compassion in its strategy. I’m proud our County and key partners continue to work together to ensure we meet all our residents’ needs.” WHERE TO START In 2023, Middlesex County hired Behavioral Health Navigators to help residents find the best services, including mental health support, addiction and recovery, wellness, and other ancillary services. To reach them, call 732-745-3810. Similarly, residents can use the Services Locator to find vetted resources for needs ranging from food insecurity and substance abuse support to job training and veterans’ services. Looking for help can feel overwhelming; the Services Locator is here to alleviate that feeling.
SCAN FOR SERVICES LOCATOR
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