La Escribana del Condado de Union, Joanne Rajoppi, anuncia que las boletas de muestra para las Elecciones Generales se enviarán por correo en dos envíos separados. Todos los votantes registrados recibirán una boleta de muestra a finales de la próxima semana, y los nuevos votantes registrados recibirán una boleta de muestra después del cierre del registro de votantes el martes 14 de octubre.
Las boletas de muestra son un recurso valioso para que los votantes se familiaricen con los candidatos y el diseño de la boleta. También se incluye información sobre el centro de votación e instrucciones para los votantes.
“Insto a los votantes a que revisen sus boletas de muestra tan pronto como las reciban”, dijo la Escribana Rajoppi. “Incluso pueden traerlas a las urnas”, añadió.
Para obtener más información sobre las boletas de muestra, la votación anticipada o las fechas límite electorales, visite www.unioncountyvotes.com o contacte la oficina al 908-527-4996 o por correo electrónico a ucvote@ucnj.org.
Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that sample ballots for the General Election will be mailed in two separate mailing. All registered voters will receive a sample ballot late next week, and new registered voters will receive a sample ballot after the close of voter registration on Tuesday, October 14th.
Sample ballots are a valuable resource for voters to acquaint themselves with the candidates and layout of the ballot. Polling location information and voter instructions are also included.
“I urge voters to review their sample ballots as soon as they receive them,” Clerk Rajoppi said. “You can even bring it with you to the polls,” she added.
For more information about sample ballots, early voting, or election deadlines, visit www.unioncountyvotes.com or contact the office at 908-527-4996 or email ucvote@ucnj.org.
En una conferencia de prensa ofrecida esta mañana por el Presidente del Senado, Nicholas Scutari, en el Ayuntamiento de Scotch Plains, la Comisionada del Condado de Union, Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, anunció que el Condado de Union tomará medidas inmediatas para proteger a los residentes de los peligros que representan las bicicletas y patinetes eléctricos.
Con vigencia a partir de hoy, el Condado de Union ha emitido una Orden Ejecutiva que prohíbe la operación de vehículos motorizados, incluyendo bicicletas y patinetas eléctricas, en todos sus parques. En su próxima reunión, la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union presentará una enmienda al Código del Condado para aclarar que:
• El uso de bicicletas eléctricas de baja velocidad, bicicletas motorizadas (e-bikes), patinetas eléctricas de baja velocidad y patinetes motorizados, según se define en N.J.S.A. 39:1-1 y N.J.S.A. 39:4-14.16 — está prohibido en cualquier puente peatonal, sendero para caballos, ciclovía, césped, área boscosa, parque, área de juegos infantiles o cualquier otra propiedad, arrendada o bajo el control del Condado de Union.
• Esta prohibición no aplica a las actividades específicamente autorizadas por N.J.S.A. 39:4-14.3(b).
“Esta Orden Ejecutiva refleja nuestro compromiso de proteger al público y actuar con rapidez cuando la seguridad está en juego”, declaró la Presidenta de la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union, Lourdes M. Leon. “Las familias merecen disfrutar de nuestros parques sin preocuparse de que los vehículos a alta velocidad pongan en peligro a niños o personas mayores. Al codificar esta medida, enviamos un mensaje claro: la seguridad siempre será nuestra principal prioridad en el Condado de Union. Seguiremos trabajando con el Presidente del Senado y los líderes estatales para garantizar que estas protecciones sensatas se extiendan a todo Nueva Jersey”.
La Orden Ejecutiva de hoy también complementa la iniciativa Legislativa anunciada por el Presidente del Senado Scutari, cuyo objetivo es modernizar las leyes de bicicletas eléctricas de Nueva Jersey mediante la actualización de los requisitos de licencia, clasificación y seguridad en todo el estado. En conjunto, estas acciones subrayan un compromiso compartido, tanto a nivel de Condado como Estatal, para proteger a los residentes, prevenir accidentes y salvar vidas.
“El drástico aumento en el uso de bicicletas eléctricas ha creado mayores peligros para sus conductores, otros conductores y peatones”, declaró el Senador Scutari. “Son más rápidas, más potentes y mucho más comunes. Nos encontramos en una nueva era en el uso de bicicletas eléctricas que requiere estándares de seguridad actualizados para ayudar a prevenir accidentes, lesiones y muertes”.
El anuncio se produce pocos días después de que un niño de 13 años en Scotch Plains falleciera en una colisión con una bicicleta eléctrica, una tragedia que ha conmocionado a la comunidad local e intensificado los reclamos por mayores protecciones.
“Como madre de cinco hijos, las recientes tragedias relacionadas con las bicicletas eléctricas, especialmente la desgarradora pérdida de un niño de 13 años en Scotch Plains, me afectan profundamente”, declaró la Comisionada del Condado de Union, Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Por eso hoy anuncié esta Orden Ejecutiva. Nuestros niños merecen calles, parques y vecindarios donde las familias puedan sentirse tranquilas. Agradezco al presidente del Senado, Scutari, por asumir un papel de liderazgo al abordar este problema urgente y por trabajar para implementar medidas de seguridad sensatas que priorizan la seguridad. Ninguna familia debería volver a sufrir una pérdida como esta”.
La conferencia de prensa también contó con la intervención del alcalde de Scotch Plains, Josh Losardo, y con la asistencia de otros miembros del consejo de Scotch Plains. La Comisionada del Condado de Union, Bette Jane Kowalski, acompañó a la Comisionada Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded en el anuncio, junto con la Asambleísta Linda Carter, el Asambleísta Jim Kennedy, el Administrador del Condado, Edward T. Oatman, y varios agentes del orden público que representan a los departamentos de todo el Condado de Union. Su presencia resaltó la importancia de la colaboración a nivel municipal, del Condado y Estatal para abordar esta urgente preocupación por la seguridad.
La medida del Condado de Union será aplicada por el personal del Condado y las fuerzas del orden, garantizando que los vehículos motorizados no pongan en peligro a peatones, corredores, personas mayores y niños en los espacios de parques compartidos. Los Comisionados enfatizaron que este es un primer paso mientras se consideran políticas Estatales más amplias, y que el anuncio de hoy demuestra el liderazgo del Condado de Union al abordar la seguridad pública de forma directa, trabajando en estrecha colaboración con las autoridades estatales para prevenir futuras tragedias.
Motorized vehicles — including low-speed e-bikes, motorized bicycles, e-scooters, and motorized scooters — are not permitted on County park property. This includes bike paths, footpaths, lawns, wooded areas, playgrounds, and other off-road spaces.
Can I still ride a regular bicycle in County parks?
Yes. Pedal-powered bicycles remain permitted where bikes are allowed. The ban applies only to motorized/assisted power devices.
What about ADA mobility devices, like medical scooters or power wheelchairs?
The ban does not apply to mobility devices used by people with disabilities, as protected under state law.
Can I or my child ride our e-bike/scooter from a road or parking lot into a park?
Yes — e-bikes and scooters may be ridden on public roadways within County parks, including entering or exiting from parking lots. However, they cannot be ridden onto fields, trails, sidewalks, or pedestrian paths inside the parks. Riders must remain on the roads at all times when on park property.
How will this be enforced? Will my child get a ticket or have their bike taken away?
Right now, enforcement is focused on education and awareness, not summonses or confiscation. Union County Police may stop riders to explain the new rules. Once a permanent ordinance is adopted, enforcement details — including whether violations could result in fines — will be reviewed and decided at that time.
What about roadways and parking lots inside parks?
Roadways and parking lots follow the same rules as public streets under state law:
Class 1 & 2 e-bikes: Allowed. Helmets required if 17 or under. No registration.
Class 3 e-bikes: Treated as motor vehicles (license, registration, insurance required).
Why ban them in parks if accidents are happening on streets?
The County can only regulate park property. Parks are shared spaces with pedestrians, children, and seniors, where high-speed motorized use poses a risk. Broader street safety issues are being addressed at the state level.
Are helmets required?
Yes:
Riders 17 and under must wear helmets on Class 1 & 2 e-bikes.
Helmets are required for all Class 3 e-bike operators.
The County strongly encourages helmet use by all riders.
Will there be licensing, registration, or insurance requirements for all e-bikes?
Not at this time under current law.
However, Senate President Nick Scutari has announced a legislative plan that would add new requirements at the state level. The County will adjust its own rules and permanent ordinance as state law evolves.
Does this apply to regular children’s bikes, skateboards, or rollerblades?
No. This EO applies only to motorized vehicles. Human-powered bicycles, skateboards, and rollerblades remain permitted in parks where allowed.
Does this apply to scooters and e-bikes used for work or commuting through parks?
Yes. The EO applies regardless of purpose and prohibits use on paths, sidewalks, and trails within County parks. Riders may still use public roadways that run through park property in accordance with State traffic laws, but devices must not be operated on pedestrian or recreational paths.
Is this permanent? What happens next?
The EO is a temporary step. It remains in effect until the Board of County Commissioners adopts a permanent ordinance, which will clarify long-term rules, penalties, and possible exceptions.
What about speed limits instead of a full ban?
The EO establishes a full restriction on e-bikes and scooters in County parks, except for use on public roadways. The Board does not anticipate allowing these vehicles on pedestrian paths or recreational areas, but may review additional measures as part of the ordinance process.
How do I report unsafe riding or violations?
To report unsafe riding or other issues in County parks, contact the Union County Police Department (non-emergency line at 908-654-9800). On streets, contact your local municipal police.
How will residents be informed about the new rules?
The County is posting on their website and social media, as well as posting message boards at major parks to make the rules clear right away.
As the Board of Commissioners works toward adopting a permanent ordinance, additional signage with QR codes will be installed at park entrances and other key locations.
These QR codes will link directly to the official rules and updates, so residents can always check the most current information.
What about riders who rely on e-bikes because they don’t have cars?
The County recognizes that many teens and adults use e-bikes for affordable transportation to work, school, or other activities. The EO focuses only on park property, where shared spaces make safety the priority.
New Jersey’s E-Bike and E-Scooter Law
Bicycles are vehicles and must follow NJ traffic laws (§39:4-14.1)
All statutes that apply to bicycles (§39:4-11) also apply to low-speed e-bikes
Helmets required for riders under 17; vendors must provide helmets for rentals (§39:4-10.3)
Required equipment: bell (§39:4-11), white headlight & red tail light at night (§39:4-10)
Ride single file on the right side of the road with traffic
No more than two riders next to each other if traffic isn’t impeded
Municipalities may prohibit sidewalk riding (kids under 10 may ride sidewalks)
E-bikes faster than 20 mph or >750 watts: license, insurance, and registration required
Low-speed e-bikes: Max 20 mph, max 750 watts, no registration/license/insurance (§39:4-14.16)
What is an E-Bike
Two types: Electric Assist or Motorized
An e-bike is a pedal bicycle with a battery or electric motor no greater than 750 watts
Battery may be inside the frame or removable
Motor may be on wheel hubs or central
More power, speed, and weight than regular bikes
Safety Tips
Bring and wear a helmet
Read directions before riding
Practice accelerating and braking in a safe place
Park at a dock or a safe place shown in the app (don’t block sidewalks/roads)
Mounting & Dismounting
E-bikes are 20 lbs heavier than regular bikes
Use a step-through or low cross bar frame if possible
Ride Smart
Always wear a helmet
Don’t use phones/headphones while riding
Take care on wet/icy roads
Be Visible
Wear helmet, gloves, sneakers, long pants
Use bell and lights
Wear bright, reflective clothing
Practice First
Read the manual
Practice in a parking lot before road riding
Start slowly
Power & Acceleration
Start with power off, pedal first
Avoid Turbo mode if you’re a beginner
Keep front wheel straight when activating power assist
Speed levels: Eco (6-7 mph), Tour (9-10 mph), Sport (12-13 mph), Turbo (20 mph)
General Bike Rules
Check tires, brakes, chain before riding
Ride with traffic, signal turns, obey all traffic signs/lights
Leave 3 ft between you and parked cars
Don’t pass cars on the right at intersections
Around Traffic & Pedestrians
Drivers aren’t used to e-bike speeds
Don’t ride on sidewalks unless allowed
Stop for pedestrians, sound bell when passing
Turns & Hills
Signal all turns, slow before turning, keep inside pedal up
Pedal uphill, use lower gears, adjust modes for efficiency
Braking
Brakes are more sensitive than regular bikes
Brake earlier with both hands
Keep brakes engaged at stops to avoid accidental throttle use
Final Safety
Always keep both wheels on the ground
Only one rider per bike (unless designed otherwise)
No tricks or attaching to vehicles (§39:4-12, §39:4-14)
Press Conference
At a press conference hosted this morning by Senate President Nicholas Scutari at Scotch Plains Township Hall, Union County Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded announced that Union County will take immediate action to protect residents from the dangers posed by electronic bikes and scooters.
On roadways, state law governs use, and Senate President Scutari has proposed legislation that would add training, licensing, and registration requirements to make streets safer for all riders. The County’s permanent ordinance will take mobility needs into account, while still keeping parks safe for pedestrians, children, and seniors.
Effective today, Union County has issued an Executive Order prohibiting the operation of motorized vehicles — including electronic bikes and scooters — in all County parks. At its next meeting, the Union County Board of County Commissioners will move to amend the County Code to make clear that:
The use of low-speed electric bicycles, motorized bicycles (e-bikes), low-speed electric scooters, and motorized scooters — as defined under N.J.S.A. 39:1-1 and N.J.S.A. 39:4-14.16 is prohibited upon any footbridge, bridle path, bicycle path, lawn, wooded area, park, playground, or any other property owned, leased, or otherwise under the control of the County of Union.
This prohibition does not apply to activities specifically authorized by N.J.S.A. 39:4-14.3(b).
The Order specifically prohibits the following in County parks and on County-controlled property (per N.J.S.A. 39:1-1 and 39:4-14.16):
Low-speed electric bicycles
Motorized bicycles (e-bikes)
Low-speed electric scooters
Motorized scooters
“This Executive Order reflects our commitment to protecting the public and acting swiftly when safety is at stake,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Families deserve to enjoy our parks without worrying about fast-moving vehicles endangering children or seniors. By codifying this action, we are sending a clear message: safety will always be our top priority in Union County. We will continue working with the Senate President and state leaders to ensure these common-sense protections extend across New Jersey.”
Today’s Executive Order also complements the legislative initiative announced by Senate President Scutari, which aims to modernize New Jersey’s e-bike laws by updating licensing, classification, and safety requirements statewide. Together, these actions underline a shared commitment at both the county and state levels to protect residents, prevent accidents, and save lives.
“The dramatic increase in the use of e-bikes has created greater dangers for their operators, other motorists and pedestrians,” said Senator Scutari. “They are faster, more powerful and far more prevalent. We are in a new era of e-bike use that requires updated safety standards to help prevent accidents, injuries and fatalities.”
The announcement comes just days after a 13-year-old boy in Scotch Plains was killed in a collision involving an electronic bike, a tragedy that has shaken the local community and intensified calls for stronger protections.
“As a mother of five, the recent e-bike tragedies — especially the heartbreaking loss of a 13-year-old in Scotch Plains — strike very close to home,” said Union County Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “That is why today I announced this Executive Order. Our children deserve streets, parks, and neighborhoods where families can feel at ease. I’m grateful to Senate President Scutari for taking a leadership role in addressing this urgent issue and for working to put forward common-sense protections that put safety first. No family should ever have to endure this kind of loss again.”
The press conference also featured remarks from Scotch Plains Mayor Josh Losardo, with additional Scotch Plains Council Members in attendance. Union County Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski joined Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded at the announcement, along with Assemblywoman Linda Carter, Assemblyman Jim Kennedy, County Manager Edward T. Oatman, and several law enforcement officials representing departments across Union County. Their presence highlighted the importance of collaborative action at the municipal, county, and state levels in addressing this urgent safety concern.
Union County’s action will be enforced by County personnel and law enforcement, ensuring that motorized vehicles do not endanger pedestrians, joggers, seniors, and children in shared park spaces. The Commissioners emphasized that this is a first step while broader statewide policies are being considered, and that today’s announcement demonstrates Union County’s leadership in addressing public safety head-on while working closely with state officials to prevent future tragedies.
La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union y la Ciudad de Rahway invitan cordialmente a los residentes con discapacidades y necesidades especiales, junto con sus familiares y amigos, a asistir a la Celebración de la Noche Familiar Espectacular de este año, que se llevará a cabo el viernes 17 de octubre, de 6:00 p. m. a 8:00 p. m. El evento gratuito se llevará a cabo en el Centro Recreativo de Rahway, ubicado en 275 East Milton Avenue en Rahway.
“Nuestra celebración anual de Halloween para residentes con discapacidades y necesidades especiales siempre es un momento divertido, y este año nos complace dar la bienvenida a toda la familia para que se unan a nosotros y disfruten de esta festividad”, dijo la Presidenta de la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union, Lourdes M. Leon. “Como siempre, la Junta de Comisionados y yo nos dedicamos a fomentar un entorno inclusivo donde todos puedan reunirse para celebrar y crear recuerdos imborrables. ¡Espero verlos a todos allí!”
La Celebración Familiar Espectacular del 2025 contará con una variedad de juegos, bailes y una Casa Encantada para que los residentes exploren. Se anima a los asistentes a usar sus disfraces de Halloween favoritos para tener la oportunidad de ganar premios y participar en nuestro concurso anual de disfraces. También se ofrecerán refrigerios.
“La Ciudad de Rahway se complace en continuar nuestra colaboración con la Oficina del Condado de Union para Personas con Discapacidades y Necesidades Especiales para la Celebración de la Noche Familiar Espectacular del 2025”, declaró el alcalde Raymond A. Giacobbe. “Esta celebración destaca nuestro compromiso continuo de brindar oportunidades inclusivas y atractivas para todos los miembros de nuestra comunidad”.
La entrada a la Noche Familiar Espectacular del 2025 es gratuita, pero es necesario inscribirse Para registrarse, llame al 908-527-4781 o visite ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.
“Estamos encantados de traer de vuelta este popular evento que captura el espíritu de Halloween de una manera abierta y acogedora para todos”, dijo Sergio Granados, Comisionado del Condado de Union y Enlace con el Consejo Asesor de Servicios Humanos. “Esta es una gran oportunidad para que los residentes se reúnan, se relajen y disfruten de una divertida y festiva diversión sin barreras. También quiero agradecer a la Ciudad de Rahway y al Alcalde Giacobbe por su continuo apoyo para hacer esto posible. ¡Estoy deseando celebrar con todos!”
Este evento es organizado por la Oficina del Condado de Union para Personas con Discapacidades y Necesidades Especiales, que es parte de la División de Servicios de Apoyo Individual y Familiar del Departamento de Servicios Humanos del Condado de Union, en colaboración con la Ciudad de Rahway.
Para obtener más información sobre la Celebración de la Noche Familiar Espectacular del 2025 u otros eventos organizados por la Oficina del Condado de Union para Personas con Discapacidades y Necesidades Especiales, visite ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn o llame al 908-527-4781.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the City of Rahway cordially invite residents with disabilities and special needs, along with family and friends, to attend this year’s Family Spooktacular Night Celebration, taking place on Friday, October 17th, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The free event will be held at the Rahway Recreation Center, located at 275 East Milton Avenue in Rahway.
“Our annual Halloween celebration for residents with disabilities and special needs is always a fun time, and this year we’re excited to welcome the entire family to join us for some festive fun,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “As always, the Commissioner Board and I are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can come together to celebrate and create lasting memories. I hope to see you all there!”
The 2025 Family Spooktacular Celebration will feature a variety of games, dancing, and a Haunted House for residents to explore. Attendees are encouraged to wear their favorite Halloween costumes for a chance to win prizes and be entered into our annual costume contest. Light refreshments will also be provided.
“The City of Rahway is excited to continue our partnership with the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs for the 2025 Family Spooktacular Night Celebration,” said Mayor Raymond A. Giacobbe. “This celebration highlights our ongoing commitment to providing inclusive and engaging opportunities for every member of our community.”
Admission to 2025 Family Spooktacular Night is free, but registration is required. To register, please call 908-527-4781 or visit ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.
“We’re thrilled to bring back this popular event that captures the spirit of Halloween in a way that’s open and inviting to everyone,” said Union County Commissioner and Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council, Sergio Granados. “This is a great opportunity for residents to come together, unwind, and have some light-hearted, seasonal fun without any barriers. I would also like to thank the City of Rahway and Mayor Giacobbe for their ongoing support in making this possible. I can’t wait to celebrate with everyone!”
This event is hosted by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, under the Division of Individual and Family Support Services of the Union County Department of Human Services, and in partnership with the City of Rahway.
For more information on the 2025 Family Spooktacular Night Celebration or other events hosted by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn or call 908-527-4781.
La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union y los Maestros Jardineros del Condado de Union se enorgullecen en anunciar que Thomas Mui, estudiante de último año del Programa de Horticultura de la Escuela Técnica Vocacional del Condado de Union (UCTECH) en Scotch Plains, ha sido galardonado con la Beca para Maestros Jardineros 2025.
“El programa de Becas para Maestros Jardineros no solo ofrece un alivio en el pago de la matrícula, sino que también destaca a los jóvenes brillantes y motivados que se dedican a crear un futuro más sostenible para el Condado de Union”, declaró Lourdes M. Leon, Presidenta de la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union. “Nos enorgullece reconocer a Thomas por sus excepcionales logros y le deseamos mucho éxito en sus futuros proyectos”.
Thomas ha demostrado una extraordinaria pasión por las ciencias ambientales y el servicio comunitario, lo que le ha valido reconocimiento por su excelencia académica, liderazgo y dedicación a la jardinería sostenible y las prácticas de conservación.
Durante su carrera en la preparatoria, Thomas destacó en ciencias y estudios ambientales. Durante su último año, cursó estudios en la Universidad de Kean. Desempeñó un papel clave para que la sección de Future Farmers of America (FFA) en UCTECH obtuviera numerosos premios durante los últimos dos años. En su último año, formó parte de dos equipos del Evento de Desarrollo Profesional (CDE) que obtuvieron los máximos honores, incluyendo un primer y un segundo lugar. En la Convención Nacional de la FFA de 2024, Thomas compitió en el CDE de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales, donde obtuvo una clasificación de oro, mientras que su equipo obtuvo una clasificación de plata.
Thomas actualmente asiste al Instituto Politécnico Rensselaer (RPI) en Troy, Nueva York, donde planea aplicar sus conocimientos de ciencias ambientales y recursos naturales al campo de la ingeniería civil.
Cada año, los Maestros Jardineros del Condado de Union otorgan una beca para apoyar a estudiantes locales que cursan estudios superiores en ciencias vegetales, ecología, sostenibilidad o campos relacionados. Esta iniciativa refleja el compromiso continuo de la organización con la formación de la próxima generación de defensores del medio ambiente.
“Nos complace reconocer a Thomas Mui por sus destacados logros”, declaró Patricia Paul, Presidenta de los Maestros Jardineros del Condado de Union. Su dedicación a las ciencias ambientales y su liderazgo comunitario representan los valores de nuestra organización. Esperamos con ansias ver su continuo éxito.
Los Maestros Jardineros del Condado de Union felicitan a Thomas Mui y esperan seguir sus futuras contribuciones a nuestro planeta y nuestras comunidades.
“La Junta de Comisionados y yo estamos orgullosos de la excelente colaboración que tenemos con la Extensión Cooperativa de Rutgers y los Maestros Jardineros del Condado de Union, y felicitamos a Thomas Mui por este logro”, declaró Bette Jane Kowalski, Comisionada del Condado de Union y Enlace de la Extensión Cooperativa de Rutgers. “Este momento confirma que el camino hacia un futuro más verde y sostenible pasa por empoderar a la próxima generación, apoyar su educación y ayudarles a desarrollar sus habilidades, tanto individuales como como líderes”.
El programa de Maestros Jardineros forma parte de la Extensión Cooperativa de Rutgers, una colaboración entre la Universidad de Rutgers, el Condado de Union y el Departamento de Agricultura de los Estados Unidos. El programa capacita a voluntarios para ayudar al público con prácticas de jardinería y horticultura responsables con el medio ambiente.
Para preguntas o más información sobre la línea gratuita de ayuda de Maestros Jardineros, llame al 908-654-9852 o visite mastergardeners-uc.org . Para más información sobre todos los proyectos y actividades de Extensión en el Condado de Union, incluyendo Maestros Jardineros, Maestros Custodios de Árboles y el programa de desarrollo juvenil 4-H, visite ucnj.org/rutgers-cooperative-extension-of-union-county.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Master Gardeners of Union County are proud to announce that Thomas Mui, a graduating senior from the Horticulture Program at Union County Vocational Technical School (UCTECH) in Scotch Plains, is the recipient of the 2025 Master Gardener Scholarship.
“The Master Garden Scholarship program not only provides tuition relief; it highlights the bright and motivated young individuals who are dedicated to creating a more sustainable future for Union County,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “We are proud to recognize Thomas for his exceptional accomplishments and wish him continued success in his future endeavors.”
Thomas has demonstrated an extraordinary passion for environmental science and community service, earning recognition for his academic excellence, leadership, and dedication to sustainable gardening and conservation practices.
Throughout his high school career, Thomas excelled in science and environmental studies. During his senior year, he took courses at Kean University. He played a key role in helping the Future Farmers of America (FFA) Chapter at UCTECH secure numerous awards over the past two years. In his senior year, he was part of two Career Development Event (CDE) teams that achieved top honors, including a first-place and second-place finish. At the 2024 National FFA Convention, Thomas competed in the Environmental and Natural Resources CDE, where he earned a gold ranking, while his team achieved a silver ranking.
Thomas is now attending Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) in Troy, New York, where he plans to apply his knowledge of environmental science and natural resources to the field of civil engineering.
Each year, the Master Gardeners of Union County award a scholarship to support local students pursuing higher education in plant science, ecology, sustainability, or related fields. This initiative reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards.
“We are thrilled to recognize Thomas Mui for his outstanding achievements,” said Patricia Paul, President of the Master Gardeners of Union County. “His dedication to environmental science and his leadership within the community embody the values of our organization. We look forward to watching his continued success.”
The Master Gardeners of Union County congratulate Thomas Mui and look forward to following his future contributions to our planet and communities.
“The Commissioner Board and I are proud of the great partnership we have with the Rutgers Cooperative Extension and the Master Gardeners of Union County, and equally share in congratulating Thomas Mui for this achievement,” said Bette Jane Kowalski, Union County Commissioner and Rutgers Cooperative Extension Liaison. “This moment serves as an affirmation that the path to a greener and more sustainable future is by empowering the next generation, supporting their education, and helping them develop their skills, as individuals and as leaders.”
The Master Gardener program is part of the Rutgers Cooperative Extension, a partnership between Rutgers University, the County of Union, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The program trains volunteers to assist the public with environmentally responsible gardening and horticultural practices.
For questions or more information on the Master Gardeners Free Helpline, call 908-654-9852 or visit mastergardeners-uc.org. For more information about all Extension projects and activities in Union County, including Master Gardeners, Master Tree Stewards and the 4-H youth development program, visit ucnj.org/rutgers-cooperative-extension-of-union-county/.
La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union invita a las organizaciones sin fines de lucro a asistir a un taller gratuito de desarrollo profesional por Zoom, “Éxito en Marketing con Cualquier Presupuesto”, el miércoles 22 de octubre, de 3:00 p.m. a 4:30 p.m. Organizado por la Oficina de Asuntos Culturales y Patrimoniales del Condado de Union, la sesión de 90 minutos presentará estrategias comprobadas que ayudan a las organizaciones sin fines de lucro a alcanzar sus objetivos de ingresos.
El taller es presentado por Nancy Sergeant, veterana de la industria publicitaria y fundadora de Sergeant Marketing, quien ayuda a líderes de pequeñas organizaciones sin fines de lucro a competir con grandes organizaciones alineando el marketing, las operaciones y la recaudación de fondos. Los participantes aprenderán a aumentar la interacción con los prospectos y a mapear las etapas de su recorrido.
Los asistentes recibirán orientación valiosa y pasos prácticos sobre cómo: definir objetivos, monitorear KPI y medir el éxito; crear perfiles de prospectos ideales; aprovechar los motores de búsqueda y la IA; aplicar las mejores prácticas de marketing por correo electrónico, redes sociales, creación de contenido y otras herramientas de marketing; y escalar estrategias de marketing exitosas mediante la revisión y la reutilización. Tras el evento, los asistentes recibirán un enlace a un video que resume los principios clave, las perspectivas y los pasos a seguir.
“El Condado de Union se enorgullece de apoyar el crecimiento y el éxito de nuestra comunidad sin fines de lucro”, declaró Lourdes M. Leon, Presidenta de la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union. “Este taller es una valiosa oportunidad para que las organizaciones locales amplíen su impacto y fortalezcan su alcance”.
Las organizaciones que deseen asistir a este taller gratuito pueden inscribirse en https://ucnj.org/marketing-success-on-any-budget. Se anima a asistir a las organizaciones que reciben financiación a través de la Beca Local de Artes (LAP), la Beca de Historia y la Beca HEART (Educación Histórica, Artes que Alcanzan a Miles) del Condado de Union. También son bienvenidas otras organizaciones sin fines de lucro con sede en Nueva Jersey.
Este taller es posible gracias a los fondos del Consejo Estatal de las Artes de Nueva Jersey, una agencia asociada del Fondo Nacional para las Artes. Para obtener más información, comuníquese con la Oficina de Asuntos Culturales y Patrimoniales del Condado de Union, una oficina del Departamento de Parques y Recreación, a través de culturalinfo@ucnj.org o llamando al 908-558-2550.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites nonprofit organizations to attend a free Zoom professional development workshop, Marketing Success on Any Budget, on Wednesday, October 22 from 3:00pm to 4:30pm. Hosted by the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, the 90-minute session will present proven strategies that help nonprofits reach their revenue goals.
The workshop is presented by Nancy Sergeant, an advertising-industry veteran and the founder of Sergeant Marketing, who helps leaders of small nonprofits compete with large organizations by aligning marketing, operations and fundraising. Participants will learn how to increase engagement with prospects, and how to map the stages in their prospects’ journey.
Attendees will receive valuable guidance and actionable steps regarding how to: define goals, track KPIs, and measure success; create ideal prospect personas; leverage search engines and AI; apply best practices for email marketing, social media, content creation, and other marketing tools; and scale successful marketing efforts through revision and repurposing. Attendees will be provided with a post-event link to a video summarizing key principles, insights, and steps to implement.
“Union County is proud to support the growth and success of our nonprofit community,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “This workshop is a valuable opportunity for local organizations to expand their impact and strengthen their outreach.”
Organizations wanting to attend this free workshop can register at https://ucnj.org/marketing-success-on-any-budget. Organizations that receive funding through Union County’s Local Arts Grant (LAP), History Grant, and HEART (History Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) Grant are encouraged to attend. Other non-profit organizations based in New Jersey are also welcome.
This workshop is made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. For more information, contact the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, an office of the Department of Parks and Recreation, at culturalinfo@ucnj.org or call 908-558-2550.
