2023 ISSUE 2 YOUR MIDDLESEX Ma g a z i n e
CONTENTS 02 AROUND THE COUNTY News and updates from County elected officials 04 MIDDLESEX COUNTY PARTNERS WITH RUTGERS ATHLETICS County and Rutgers enter into letter of intent regarding a home field for Rutgers baseball 06 PROTECTING MIDDLESEX COUNTY Since 1992, the Middlesex County Fire Academy has trained firefighters from throughout the County and beyond 08 CELEBRATE MIDDLESEX County offices showcase their services during free annual event 10 CULTIVATING THE NEXT CROP OF FARMERS Learn how Middlesex County is supporting farmers through educational and mentorship programs 12 ART ON DISPLAY: MIDDLESEX COUNTY MURAL DESIGN CONTEST See the winning design for Middlesex County’s first Mural Design Contest
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
Discover REACHING NEW HEIGHTS by Design
In Middlesex County, results are the product of hard work and commitment by our people and our community. Thoughtful planning and careful investing help support residents and allow our businesses to pursue new opportunities. Learn how at DiscoverMiddlesex.com/byDesign.
Leslie Koppel Chair, Finance Committee
Chanelle Scott McCullum Chair, Economic Development Committee
Charles E. Tomaro Chair, Infrastructure Committee
THE COVER
CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS
SCAN TO VIEW MAGAZINE OR CONNECT WITH US ONLINE, OR CALL 732-745-3000
HONORING THEIR SERVICE Firefighters play such an important role in our communities, putting their own lives at risk to protect us all. Our story on page 6 highlights their dedication and the best-in-class training they receive at the Middlesex County Fire Academy. The cover image was captured in the Independence Engine & Hose Co. #1 firehouse on North Broadway in South Amboy. Established in 1890, Independence Engine & Hose Co. #1 is one of five fire companies in the all-volunteer South Amboy Fire Department. On September 11, 2001, as part of the Middlesex County Taskforce, seven members of Independence Engine & Hose Co. #1 responded to the City of New York for mutual aid. Their 24-hour cover assignment was at Engine 219 / Ladder 105 located on Dean Street in Brooklyn.
Nancy J. Pinkin County Clerk
Mildred S. Scott Sheriff
ABOUT THE MAGAZINE The Your Middlesex County 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. The magazine is produced on behalf of the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners.
Claribel Cortes Surrogate
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Around the County
AROUND THE
FUN FACT The first collegiate football game took place in New Brunswick on November 6, 1869. Rutgers triumphed over Princeton 6-4, igniting America’s love for college football.
MIDDLESEX COUNTY LAUNCHES OPIOID SETTLEMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL In response to the nationwide opioid epidemic, the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners has established the Middlesex County Opioid Settlement Advisory Council which includes a cross-section of experts in behavioral health, substance use disorders, and community outreach. Experts include representatives from the County’s healthcare partners at RWJBarnabas Health/Rutgers University Behavioral Healthcare and Hackensack Meridian Health and the Office of the County Prosecutor. The Advisory Council’s primary role is to offer input and recommendations regarding the allocation of funds received between opioid distributors and the State of New Jersey as a result of class action lawsuits. For more information and to suggest how to apply these funds, please visit middlesexcountynj.gov/ opioidinput . by the County through nationwide settlements
COUNTY CELEBRATES 90+ RESIDENTS WITH BIRTHDAY EVENTS AND LUNCHEONS In honor of Older Americans Month in May, Middlesex County organized four special events throughout the month to celebrate residents turning 90 years and older. Birthday celebrations and luncheons took place in Old Bridge, South Brunswick, Sayreville, and Piscataway, allowing the community to mark this remarkable milestone. COUNTY PROSECUTOR HONORED BY NEW JERSEY WOMEN LAWYERS ASSOCIATION During the prestigious Women’s Initiative and Leaders in the Law, Platinum Gala, Honorable Yolanda Ciccone was recognized for her exemplary work and dedication in the public sector. She is among a select group of outstanding female leaders in New Jersey’s legal community to receive this prestigious award.
bias, or discrimination can take refuge. The Safe Place partner assists in contacting the police and allows the victim to wait safely on the premises until police arrive. For more information or to sign up for the program, visit middlesexcountynj.gov and search “Safe Place,” call Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office Detective Wade at 732-745-8383 or Detective Blackwell at 732-745-3465, or email safeplace@co.middlesex.nj.us. EJOTV OPENING WEEKEND East Jersey Old Town Village (EJOTV), Middlesex County’s season with great enthusiasm! Through October, visitors of all ages are invited to explore EJOTV and engage with historical interpreters who bring its rich heritage to life through various trades and crafts. East Jersey Old Town Village and the Cornelius Low House, both located in Piscataway, premier historical site, commenced their 2023
are open to the public year- round, from Wednesday to Sunday, and admission is free.
COUNTY
MIDDLESEX COUNTY PROSECUTOR’S OFFICE LAUNCHES SAFE PLACE PROGRAM During Middlesex County’s June 6 Pride flag raising event, Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone announced the launch of the Safe Place Program. An initiative that promotes community safety and awareness against hate crimes and discrimination, the Safe Place Program was rolled out at Rutgers University and in the City of New Brunswick on June 3. Woodbridge, Highland Park, Metuchen, and Monroe are already active in the program. Under the Safe Place Program, law enforcement partners, local businesses, schools, and community organizations display Safe Place decals identifying locations in the community
OFFICE OF SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT WINS 2023 NJ CLEAN COMMUNITIES COUNTY PROGRAM AWARD The Office of Solid Waste Management was awarded the 2023 NJ Clean Communities County Program Award by the New Jersey Clean Communities Council, Inc. This recognition highlights the Office’s exceptional county- wide clean communities program, encompassing cleanup efforts, enforcement initiatives, and educational campaigns. Notably, the “Bring Your Own Bag” campaign was acknowledged for its comprehensive approach, including outreach to businesses, provision of reusable bags to residents and communities in need, and an effective advertising campaign to promote awareness.
SHARE YOUR INPUT
MIDDLESEX COUNTY MAGNET SCHOOLS CLASS OF 2023 GRADUATES The Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners extends heartfelt congratulations to the 2023 graduates of Middlesex County Magnet Schools and wishes
FUN FACT The inaugural airmail flight in New Jersey occurred in South Amboy on July 4, 1912, significantly expanding global communication.
them continued success. Several ceremonies were held between Thursday, June 22 and Friday, June 23,
honoring a total of 500 graduates.
Image courtesy of aerodacious.com
SAFE PLACE
as Safe Places where anyone experiencing a hate crime,
(L-R) Commissioner Charles Kenny, Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios, Clerk Pinkin, and Prosecutor Ciccone at the Pride flag raising.
Commissioner Charles Kenny and Surrogate Cortes celebrate birthdays of residents aged 90+
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2 Your Middlesex | 2023 Issue 2
Your wellbeing
MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES HEALTH POLICY EDUCATION LAW ENFORCEMENT
STATE OF THE COUNTY 2023 “As public servants, we on the Board never lose sight of the fact that the primary purpose and function of government is to serve the people,” County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios affirmed during his annual State of the County address. Rios dedicated his address to highlighting programs and initiatives specifically focused on investing in the quality of life of every County resident, including those that are creating jobs, bolstering the education system, creating more convenient ways to travel, tackling challenges related to behavioral health, and broadening facilities dedicated to sports, entertainment, and culture. Below are excerpts from his speech.
Calling it one of the “defining issues of our time,” County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios and the Board of County Commissioners assembled behavioral health experts for a Behavioral Health Roundtable and Workshop event in May. The event included a panel discussion featuring leaders in healthcare; mental health services; substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery; health policy; education; and law enforcement, as well as workshops on specific topics related to behavioral health. Rios addressed the crowded theater, describing the crisis as one that “knows no boundaries.” “This Behavioral Health Roundtable event is the first step on what is sure to be a long journey, but one that I believe can lead to success – if only we work together,” said Rios. “Ultimately, we are committed to providing more support to our Department of Community Services, and to all those in our community who do tremendous work in this field every day.” County Faces Behavioral Health Crisis Head-On
New Jersey Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman and New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin also addressed the audience. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy delivered the event’s keynote. “Mental health is an issue I care deeply about, especially now when so many people throughout our nation are struggling with mental health challenges. That’s why I have made youth mental health the main focus of my work as the Chair of the National Governors Association and why my Administration continuously strives to meet the mental health needs of New Jersey residents,” said Murphy. “I commend every individual and organization working to address the mental health crisis in our state for their efforts to help heal our children, our families, and our communities as a whole. I remain committed to supporting and working alongside our dedicated partners in these ongoing efforts.”
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“ “ CIO Our Community, Innovation, and Opportunity Strategic Investment Plan will reimagine the Middlesex College campus to ensure it meets the needs of today’s – and tomorrow’s ― students.
SUPPORTING DIVERSE BUSINESSES
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH There is a nationwide mental health crisis. It is a crisis that knows no boundaries. People of all ages, genders, races, and economic circumstances are affected, including so many right here in Middlesex County. People are suffering, and many are turning to substances to cope. Mental health issues and substance use disorders are often ― although not always ― connected, and this program will help ensure our residents who are battling these issues… or who have loved ones who are… receive the support they need. Our behavioral health initiative will identify gaps in current behavioral health services… and seek to fill those gaps through grants, partnerships, and collaborative opportunities.”
We often say we are building a brighter future for all of Middlesex County, we mean we are building that future with union labor… as well as with a diverse workforce that more accurately reflects our County population. To that end, earlier this month, my colleagues and I were proud to adopt a resolution to set aside, or otherwise allocate, 20% of the dollar value of all County contracts for goods and services in a fiscal year to minority-, women-, veteran-owned, and small businesses.” FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY Robust fiscal health is the result of deliberate, strategic decisions made with the County’s long-term economic stability and success in mind. This is evident in our recently adopted County budget which sets a strong foundation for the present and our future. For example, in 2023, the County’s Surplus Fund increased to $101 million. And, since 2013, we have reduced total County debt by 43%.”
It will transform the campus into a regional destination for academics, athletics, and the arts.” TRANSPORTATION Another way we can grow responsibly is by prioritizing infrastructure investments which will make it easier for our residents to get to and from their existing jobs. For instance, the County, through the MCIA, in partnership with NJTRANSIT, is spearheading the modernization of the New Brunswick Train Station and the construction of the North Brunswick Train Station. These projects ― both located on the vital Northeast Corridor train line ― will ensure County residents have safe, reliable public transit options to connect them with career, cultural, and educational opportunities in and out of the County.”
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Middlesex County Partners with Rutgers Athletics
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Continuing the momentum around the County’s Community, Innovation, and Opportunity (CIO) Strategic Investment Plan, Middlesex County and Rutgers Athletics have entered into a letter
“We are delighted to partner with Middlesex County to bring Big Ten baseball to this fantastic new facility,” said Rutgers Athletic Director Pat Hobbs. “Steve Owens and his staff have done a tremendous job developing the players in our baseball program both on and off the field. This new chapter with Middlesex County will only help Coach Owens and his team continue their pursuit of Big Ten championships and more. We will continue to explore other ways we can partner with the County, but this is a great first step. I want to thank everyone at the county, state, and university level who made this opportunity possible.” This partnership is also intended to create new educational pathways for Middlesex College students. As the largest feeder college to Rutgers University, the County is exploring enhanced access to Rutgers’ curricula, invaluable mentorship opportunities, and the potential for expanded shared educational programming.
of intent, solidifying a partnership with the Scarlet Knight baseball program, spanning three to five years. This collaboration will designate the future Multipurpose Community Venue located on Middlesex College’s campus as a home field for Rutgers baseball, beginning with the 2026 season. “Our deep relationship with Rutgers University continues to grow and strengthen with this new partnership with Rutgers Athletics,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. “The County’s strong fiscal position, coupled with the opportunity of significant state and federal investment in the CIO Strategic Investment Plan, gives us the advantage to seize crucial opportunities like this for the benefit of our residents and partners like Rutgers University. This is just the beginning of many more transformative and innovative changes at Middlesex College and in our County.”
County Commissioner Deputy Director Shanti Narra speaks with attendees at the 2023 State of the County
County elected officials and representatives from Rutgers Athletics and Middlesex College gather to announce the partnership
4 Your Middlesex | 2023 Issue 2
Putting out fires
Protecting Middlesex County
A Firefighter I class prepares to practice following the hose line and conducting a search in smoky conditions in a two-story burn structure on the Fire Academy campus
Nestled among the shops lining South Amboy’s main road is the Independence Engine & Hose Co. #1. Founded in 1890, it was the first company formed in the all- volunteer South Amboy Fire Department (SAFD) and is among the oldest fire companies in Middlesex County. And while the building that houses Independence Engine & Hose Co. #1 is old, the firefighters’ equipment and training are state-of-the-art. This is vital. Advances in technology have enabled the creation of better protective gear and other tools that have improved safety, but fighting fires remains incredibly dangerous. Training and experience are key. Firefighters throughout the County ― including the volunteers from Independence Engine & Hose Co. #1 ― get both at the Middlesex County Fire Academy, where the more than 60 instructors are current and former first responders with decades of experience. Established in 1992, the Middlesex County Fire Academy trains thousands of firefighters each year, offering lectures, hands-on training, and drills in everything from basic firefighting to specialized skills.
“We pay attention to the types of fires and situations that are happening not just in our area, but anywhere, and then we develop classes to train emergency responders,” says Gallagher. “A recent example is fires involving electric batteries. We saw a need for training and wrote a class to teach firefighters how to respond quickly and effectively. Timely, hands-on training is crucial.” Fire Academy staff are considered regional experts, providing training not only for local firefighters, but for firefighters from throughout the tri-state area and even a firefighter crew from Colombia. The Fire Academy’s 26-acre campus in the Borough of Sayreville is well-equipped and includes several burn structures where firefighters practice responding to real-world scenarios using live fire in everything from car fires to house fires or high-rise apartment or condominium fires, and more. Arson investigators also receive training at the Fire Academy, with detailed scenarios prepared ahead of time so the investigators learn how to locate and identify potential evidence ― and what it means. In addition to training firefighters, personnel also respond to fire and emergency calls. The Fire Academy operates several specialized response teams and task forces, including a Metro Strike Team and a swift water rescue team. Members of these teams are career firefighters and first responders who volunteer their time and specialized skills when needed. The high level of training and overall preparedness the Fire Academy provides are especially important with so many major highways and railways ― passenger and freight ― running through Middlesex County, as well as the County’s proximity to Newark Liberty International Airport and New York City. And it’s crucial in South Amboy, where the volunteer members of Independence Fire & Hose Co. #1, together with volunteers
from the city’s four other fire companies, work hard to protect people and property. According to SAFD Chief John Dragotta, a veteran firefighter of 43 years, Independence Engine & Hose Co. #1 has approximately 123 members, 50 to 60 of whom are considered active members. When the alarm sounds, they head to the firehouse, put on their gear, and respond to the call ― responding to 300 to 350 calls per year with an average response time of three to four minutes. They rely on their experience, judgment, and training every time. Why do firefighters do it? Why move toward danger when everyone else is heading in the other direction? Dragotta sees firefighting, especially as a volunteer, as a commitment to his neighbors and the community ― and an opportunity to do good in the world ― and says that being a firefighter means being part of the biggest brotherhood in the United States (that includes plenty of female firefighters as well).
He encourages anyone who has the time and opportunity to volunteer. “It’s amazing when you pull someone out and save their life,” says Dragotta. “The best part is when you know you did something good ― you saved a person or their pet or their property ― you helped someone. It’s very rewarding.”
Middlesex County Fire Marshal Mike Gallagher oversees and enforces the State of NJ Uniform Fire Code in Middlesex County. He also serves as director of the Fire Academy, overseeing training and operations, and is the County Fire Coordinator. Gallagher, who has been with the Fire Academy since 1998, is committed to ensuring firefighters are prepared for any emergency they may encounter.
South Amboy Fire Department’s fire apparatuses through the years
Two members of a Firefighter I class practice working with a fire hydrant
Firefighter Charles “Chuck” Pickard joined SAFD in 1967, served as chief in 1992, and still responds to fire calls
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6 Your Middlesex | 2023 Issue 2
Celebrate Middlesex
“ I look forward to Celebrate each year! It’s a great way to learn about Middlesex County’s wonderful programs and services that enhance the lives of all our residents, from seniors to children to the disabled and our veterans.” County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios
Celebrate Middlesex County returned to Roosevelt Park in June. This free, annual event showcases the unique programs and services provided by Middlesex County and highlights the people who bring them to life through interactive booths and displays. This year’s event boasted a variety of activities including local food vendors, live music, games and activities, touch-a-truck, roller skating, arts and crafts, historical reenactors, and much more. Celebrate Middlesex County will be back with more community fun next June!
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8 Your Middlesex | 2023 Issue 2
CULTIVATING THE NEXT CROP OF FARMERS Farming may not be among the first things that come to mind when people think of New Jersey, but it should be: The Garden State is one of the top 10 producers nationally for blueberries, cranberries, tomatoes, bell peppers, and several other fruits and vegetables.
Milltown resident Carl Schneider is in phase three of the Beginner Farmer Training Program. A former market researcher, he founded Piney’s Family Farm and currently grows peppers, tomatoes, eggplants, and other vegetables on land owned by veteran farmer Jim Giamarese of Giamarese Farm & Orchards. Schneider says that despite the hard work and challenges like the weather and keeping deer out, farming makes him happy. “I love the whole idea of starting my own farming business and handling all the different aspects of it ― from all the work that goes into growing vegetables, to marketing to finance,” he says. “And even though farming is tough work and a big change from my 9 to 5 desk job, I love it.”
Local, family-owned and operated farms play a vital role in the community. They benefit the environment by providing a safe haven for insects, pollinators, birds, and wildlife, and contribute to the economy. In Middlesex County, actual farm income and the revenue generated is “estimated at over $30 million, though the figure changes annually,” according to Hlubik. The number of farmers and the amount of acreage dedicated to farming in Middlesex County also fluctuates. “With part- and full-time farmers, there’s roughly around 15,000 to 16,000 acres of land devoted to agricultural crop production in the County,” says Hlubik. Much of this may be due to the County’s strong support for farmers and emphasis on preserving open space and farmland
within its borders. According to Hlubik, the County has preserved approximately 55 farms which amounts to more than 5,000 acres. With so many benefits to the community and so much at stake, Hlubik says it’s more important than ever to support local farms. “Our farmers are leaders; they’re creative and innovative and they’re producing the highest quality product while protecting the environment and keeping food safe by using integrated pest management and other tools,” says Hlubik. “If you want farmers and that type of thing to survive ― and for us all to have a wonderful local, safe source of produce, grains, Christmas trees, and more ― get out there and buy from local farms and businesses. It’s worth it.”
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families with limited resources, and the RU Ready to Farm – Beginner Farmer Training Program. The Beginner Farmer Training Program offers training and support to small- to mid-scale farmers who want to transition into growing specialty or higher value crops, or who are interested in expanding into agri-tourism and extending their growing season. Launched in 2020, the three-phase program includes a 15-sesson online course in basic farming and hands-on training where participants run a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) venture. In the final phase, students from phase two are selected to participate in the program’s farm business incubator, which gives them an opportunity to implement their farm business plan with access to resources and mentoring. RCE’s mission and the mission of the Beginner Farmer Program are of critical importance.
Here in Middlesex County, the most common crops include corn, soybeans, and wheat, as well as shrubs, container plants, and Christmas trees. Local farms also grow plenty of fruits and vegetables – as seen at farm stands and farmer’s markets throughout the County. But farming is challenging, and with the average age of farmers in the United States approaching 60 years old ― and fewer young people carrying on the tradition of family farms ― the future of local, family-owned and operated farms is anything but certain. Middlesex County is working hard to support farmers with educational and mentoring programs and to preserve their land through the Farmland Preservation Program. William T. Hlubik, the County’s agricultural agent and director of the Middlesex County Cooperative Extension Service with Rutgers University, is leading the charge with the full support of the Board of County Commissioners. The Middlesex County Cooperative Extension Service with Rutgers University provides support, education, and advice to farmers. Rutgers Cooperative Extension (RCE) is the university’s outreach wing. It offers programs like the Master Gardeners Environmental Stewardship program, 4-H Youth Development clubs, federally funded nutrition classes for
Middlesex County is one of the more progressive counties to preserve farmland. There’s a really rich history of support from the Board of County
Commissioners that continues to this day. It includes building the E.A.R.T.H. Center, which is an ideal location for farmers and constituents to visit for educational programs, hands-on demonstrations, and more.” County Agricultural Agent and Director of the Middlesex County Cooperative Extension Service with Rutgers University William T. Hlubik
(L-R) William T. Hlubik, with veteran East Brunswick farmer Jim Giamarese of Giamarese Farm & Orchards and Beginner Farmer Program member Carl Schneider, discusses farming in Middlesex County
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10 Your Middlesex | 2023 Issue 2
From Our Offices
GET TO KNOW Expecting the unexpected
Middlesex County Office of Emergency Management and Preparedness (OEM)
Mural Contest
Middlesex County hosted its first Mural Design Contest, inviting residents of all ages and artistic abilities to showcase their creativity by developing a mural design. The winning design now graces the concessions/comfort building at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park in South Amboy, serving as a vibrant testament to the County’s artistic spirit and rich heritage. Throughout the month of March, Middlesex County received a staggering 120 design entries. A jury of esteemed local artists and community leaders deliberated on the finalists, choosing the top three designs to be put to a public vote via Facebook. Metuchen resident Julia Virginia Win emerged victorious. “My design mimics my usual mediums of watercolor and collage,” said Win. “It is an homage to the transportation and history of South Amboy which depicts NJ TRANSIT, the first airmail flight in NJ, biking at the waterfront, a sailboat, a ferry to NYC, and the ‘hole in the wall’ tunnel. The quilt-like quality is meant to add interest to all parts of the mural and pack in lots of color!” Once the winner was chosen, the mural was then painted by professional muralist Louie Blacka with Win’s help. Over the course of a few weeks in May, the artists brought Win’s design to life, sketching rough outlines of figures before finishing the fine details of the design. On May 24, the County hosted a mural unveiling event with County and local officials and Win and Blacka in attendance.
When disaster strikes, who spearheads Middlesex County’s response? That would be the County’s Director of Emergency Management and Preparedness: Bill Johnson. Johnson, who oversees the Office of Emergency Management and Preparedness (OEM), says OEM’s primary function is to “be ready for any emergency that may impact the residents of Middlesex County.” That includes preparing for, mitigating, responding to, and recovering from the effects of any emergency caused by natural, man-made, or technological disasters, or a national security crisis. OEM assists other County departments and the County’s 25 municipalities by aiding them in their planning for emergencies and by responding to incidents in accordance with the policies of the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners and the New Jersey State Police Office of Emergency Management. Officially enacted by resolution in the early 1950s under the name “Civil Defense,” OEM is headquartered at the Middlesex County Fire Academy, an ideal location since Johnson’s office and County Fire Marshal Mike Gallagher’s office work closely, coordinating responses to everything from major fires to natural disasters to the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to having offices at the Fire Academy, OEM has fully equipped emergency response vehicles ready to deploy as needed
and a state-of-the-art emergency operations center from which Johnson and his team can coordinate the County’s response. In fact, when a hurricane or tropical storm strikes, Johnson and Gallagher ― along with other first responders ― typically hunker down in the building, working practically around the clock directing the response. The Office of Emergency Management and Preparedness includes bureaus that accept community volunteers to help in emergency response and coordinated operations. The bureaus include the Emergency Services Bureau, Emergency Medical Services, Auxiliary Emergency Communications, the County Animal Response Team, the Middlesex County Auxiliary Police Academy, and the County Emergency Response Team. OEM also strives to educate the public about emergency preparedness, including what residents should do to protect themselves, their families, their pets, and their property in the event of storms or other emergencies. To learn more about the Office of Emergency Management and Preparedness ― including how you can volunteer your time or for information about how you can protect yourself and your loved ones in an emergency ― visit middlesexcountynj.gov and search “Office of Emergency Management and Preparedness.”
(L-R) Professional muralist Louie Blacka with
Mural Design Contest winner, artist Julia Virginia Win
2023 Middlesex County Employee of the Year: Marybeth Caruso! Middlesex County conferred its first- ever Employee of the Year award at 2023 Celebrate. Marybeth Caruso, MSN, RN, who joined the County 27 years ago and serves as director of nursing for the County’s Office of Health Services, was selected from a pool of qualified submissions. Caruso, who began her career as a staff nurse and considers working directly with patients – particularly in the County’s tuberculosis clinics – the most enjoyable and rewarding part of her career, is grateful for this honor and the attention it brings to the important field of public health. “This is such an honor and quite humbling,” said Caruso. “It means a lot because it originated from a colleague and the Commissioners chose me. It’s also a nice spotlight on public health, our great team, and the work we do here.”
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Marybeth Caruso with her award
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12 Your Middlesex | 2023 Issue 2
Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners County Administration Building 75 Bayard Street New Brunswick, NJ 08901
PRSRT STD U. S. POSTAGE PAID New Brunswick, NJ Permit No. 1
If you need to update your name or address, please email your corrections to info@conceptprint.com or mail this page with corrections to: Concept Print, Kerry Monahan Gaughan, 40 Lydecker St, Nyack, NY 10960 ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Crack the clues,
conquer the Quest!
Our riddles take you on an adventure around the County – if you can solve them. Are you up for the challenge? August 2 – October 11
Visit DiscoverMiddlesex.com/quest or scan the QR code to learn how to play.
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