Category: Public Info

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/.

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.

On June 20, 2025, officers from the Union County Police Department responded to Cedarbrook Park in Plainfield, NJ, after receiving a report of an individual being stabbed. A juvenile victim had sustained a knife wound to the face.

The incident occurred in the parking lot of the Plainfield Village Apartments, located on Randolph Road adjacent to Tëmike Park. Officers Roman and Gray of the Union County Police Investigations Division led a months-long investigation into the case.

The investigation ultimately identified two juvenile suspects from Plainfield, alleged to be gang members connected to multiple incidents. The Union County Prosecutor’s Office approved charges against both juveniles.

On September 23, 2025, members of the Investigations Division facilitated the surrender of one of the juvenile suspects. The suspect was arrested, charged, processed, and remanded to the Essex County Juvenile Detention Center pending a court date in Superior Court.

Charges filed in this case include:

• 2C:12-1b(1) Aggravated Assault (2nd Degree)

• 2C:12-1b(2) Aggravated Assault with a Weapon (3rd Degree)

• 2C:39-4d Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose (3rd Degree)

• 2C:39-5d Unlawful Possession of a Weapon (4th Degree)

Charges and an arrest remain pending for the second juvenile suspect.

Please note for clarification: Mr. Bermeo is responsible for the full cleanup cost, which is currently assessed at $1,100.22. The phrase ‘in excess of $1,000’ in the press release prior was intended to reflect this total.

On September 23, 2025, patrol officers from the Union County Police Department discovered illegal dumping activity in the Watchung Reservation, located in Mountainside, NJ.

Following a swift investigation by the Union County Police Investigations Division, Mr. Adrian Bermeo of Elizabeth, NJ, was identified as the suspect and subsequently charged on September 25, 2025.

Cleanup efforts required the removal of debris equivalent to two 17-yard dumpsters. Mr. Bermeo later turned himself in to police and provided a full confession.

He has been charged with violating N.J.S.A. 13:1E-9.3(A), a Disorderly Persons Offense that carries a $2,500 fine for a first offense. He also received a County Ordinance violation for Driving Off Roadway and will be held responsible for cleanup costs exceeding $1,000.

Mr. Bermeo was processed and released pending a court date in municipal court.

Please be advised that the Union County footpath bridge at Mohawk Park in Cranford will be closed for paving on Wednesday, October 1.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners joyously announces that tickets for The Great Pumpkin Sail of 2025 will be available for purchase beginning Wednesday, October 1st at 9:00 a.m. at ucnj.org/ticket. The highly anticipated event will take place on Saturday, November 1st, at Echo Lake Park in Mountainside.

“This is one of our most cherished fall traditions in Union County, and one that adults and kids alike truly enjoy,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Watching your carved Jack-o-Lanterns sail away with their pumpkin pals, creating this illuminated floating masterpiece – it’s one of those experiences that makes this season magical. I hope you join us.” 

The Great Pumpkin Sail provides visitors of all ages the opportunity to have their Jack-o-Lantern added to a float and watch them sail on Echo Lake.

The event will take place on Saturday, November 1st at Echo Lake Park in Mountainside, with three sessions scheduled. The first session will run from 5:15 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The second session will run from 6:45 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The third session will run from 8:15 p.m. until 9:30 p.m.

Tickets for the Great Pumpkin Sail are sold on a per-family basis, with one ticket covering up to six family members. Larger families may purchase an additional ticket to cover up to six more family members. There is a two-ticket limit per family.

The cost is $12 per ticket for Union County residents and $16 per ticket for out-of-county residents. Each family ticket includes the right to float one pre-carved Jack-o-Lantern, weighing no more than eight (8) pounds after carving.

Tickets must be purchased in advance as space is limited. In the event of inclement weather, the rain date has been scheduled for Sunday, November 2nd.

The Great Pumpkin Sail of 2025 is presented by the Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation. For more information on the Great Pumpkin Sail and other events organized through the Department of Parks and Recreation, please visit ucnj.org/parks, email parksinfo@ucnj.org, or call 908-527-4900.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Union County invite residents to take advantage of their free Gardening Helpline, a trusted local resource for advice on gardening, landscaping, and plant care. Staffed by trained Master Gardener volunteers, the helpline is available by phone at 908-654-9852 and email at mastergardeners@ucnj.org to answer a wide range of horticultural questions.  Residents can also visit the Master Gardeners headquarters, located at 151 Grant Street in Berkeley Heights.

“The Master Gardeners Helpline provides valuable support to residents all across Union County who need guidance on caring for their gardens and houseplants, combining expert advice with human connection,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Whether it’s identifying pests, improving soil, or learning when to plant, our volunteers make it easier for residents to find answers and succeed in their gardening efforts. They’re also available by email, making this resource accessible and convenient for everyone.”

The Master Gardeners Helpline can assist with a variety of gardening inquiries, including identifying plant diseases and pests, providing advice on lawn care, composting, and fertilizing, and offering tips for both vegetable and flower gardening. Additionally, they can guide you on selecting native and pollinator-friendly plants, as well as address questions related to pruning, watering, and soil management. All responses are informed by Rutgers University’s science-based curriculum and the volunteers’ extensive field experience.

“Whether you’re a new gardener wondering when to plant tomatoes, or you’re dealing with pests or yellowing leaves, our volunteers are ready to help,” said Goda Dattatreya, leader of the helpline team of volunteers.

The helpline is available Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and on Friday until 1:00 p.m. during the months of April through November. From December to March, the helpline operates on Mondays and Wednesdays only, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with Friday hours continuing until 1:00 p.m. The Master Gardener’s Helpline offers assistance by phone at 908-654-9852 or email at mastergardeners@ucnj.org. Residents are encouraged to include photos of plants, pests, or problems when emailing the helpline.

“This helpline is part of our mission to support residents with accurate, research-based information that’s tailored to local conditions,” said Pat Paul, a Cranford resident and President of the Master Gardeners program.

Residents interested in gardening education and community service are encouraged to apply for the 2026 Master Gardeners training program, which begins in early January and runs through May at Trailside Nature and Science Center. The program includes horticultural education, hands-on training, and outreach opportunities throughout Union County.

For more information, call 908-654-9852, email mastergardeners@ucnj.org , or visit ucnj.org/rce.

“Our Master Gardeners training program is an excellent way for residents to contribute to bettering our planet and give back to their community, while doing something they enjoy,” said Union County Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Rutgers Cooperative Extension. “I encourage those interested in volunteering for this program to contact the master gardeners for more information.” 

The Gardening Helpline is just one facet of the Union County Master Gardeners program. Volunteers also care for the 1.5-acre Demonstration Garden located at the Trailside Nature & Science Center in Mountainside. Visitors are welcome on Saturday mornings (weather permitting) and guided tours and seasonal events are available by arrangement.

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/.

We appreciate your patience while our Parks team completes this important work to ensure the bridges remain safe and accessible for everyone. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites seniors and caregivers to the upcoming Aging Services Kiosk (ASK) events in October to explore the wide range of senior programs and resources available. These events allow attendees to meet face-to-face with experienced professionals who can provide expert guidance and assistance with a variety of services, including form completion. Bilingual staff will be available on several dates in October to provide support in Spanish.

“Our senior population is as vital to this community as they are to their families,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “That’s why it’s important to us to ensure they remain as safe, healthy, and joyful as possible. The ASK program addresses several challenges that seniors face, including food insecurity, transportation issues, respite care, language barriers – even loneliness. We encourage seniors and caregivers to attend an ASK event this month and take full advantage of the support that is available to them.”

The Aging Services Kiosk is operated explicitly by the Division on Aging, a branch of the Union County Department of Human Services. It offers adults aged 60 and older, along with their caregivers, a friendly and convenient avenue to discover valuable programs and services and speak individually with a Division on Aging professional.

Staff at ASK locations can help older adults and caregivers connect with various services, including home-delivered meals, respite care, home care, adult day care, and support services for caregivers. Any Union County senior or caregiver can visit any ASK kiosk, regardless of their hometown. No appointment or pre-registration is needed. Below are the upcoming ASK events in October:

Tuesday, October 7th
Westfield Memorial Library
550 East Broad Street, Westfield
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tuesday, October 14th
(Bilingual staff available)
Hillside Public Library
1409 Liberty Avenue, Hillside
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Wednesday, October 22nd
(Bilingual staff available)
Union Public Library
1980 Morris Avenue, Union
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Thursday, October 30th
Clark Public Library
303 Westfield Avenue, Clark
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

“Our Division on Aging has worked tirelessly to enhance the quality of life for our senior community through the ASK services and various other programs. More importantly, the bright individuals who run these programs are constantly seeking new ways to improve on the services offered, tailoring them to the specific needs of this community,” said Union County Commissioner and Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging, James Baker. “Visit Union County’s Division on Aging website for more information on these useful services.”
 
For more information about the ASK events and any other services for seniors in Union County, contact the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection at 1-888-280-8226 toll-free or visit online at ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to join in a day of music, culture, and recognition as part of Hispanic Heritage Month, themed “Defining | Culture and Influence.” The annual Family Fun Day returns to Warinanco Park in Roselle on Saturday, October 4th, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., bringing families together for an afternoon filled with celebration, community pride, and the presentation of the 2025 Hispanic Heritage Awards.

“Family Fun Day is a celebration that brings our entire community together,” said Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “As a Cuban-American and the first Latina to serve on this Board, I know how powerful it is to see our culture reflected in public spaces, shared with neighbors of every background. It’s about joy, music, food, and family — and it’s also about honoring those who are shaping a stronger future for Union County. This day reminds us that when we celebrate our heritage, we celebrate the unity and progress of our whole community.”

This free event will feature live cultural performances, music, arts and crafts, inflatable activities, a photo booth, and community organizations offering resources and giveaways. Latin-inspired food trucks will also be on site, with free vouchers distributed while supplies last.

“For me, this celebration is deeply personal,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados. “My family’s journey from El Salvador to Union County taught me the value of resilience, opportunity, and community. Family Fun Day captures all of that — a space where families can enjoy themselves while we also lift up the residents, leaders and organizations who make a lasting difference. This event is proof that our heritage is alive not only in the traditions we share, but in the commitments we make to each other every day.”

The highlight of the day will be the Hispanic Heritage Awards Ceremony, honoring leaders whose contributions have left a mark on Union County and beyond, including:

Assemblywoman Annette Quijano, New Jersey’s 20th Legislative District — The Angel Estrada Community Leadership Award. Assemblywoman Quijano has represented the 20th District since 2008, becoming the first woman and Latina to serve as Speaker Pro Tempore in the General Assembly. A lifelong champion for working families, she has led landmark legislation on paid family leave, wage theft protections, cannabis legalization and expungement, and gun safety, while also advancing LGBTQ equality, animal rights, and protections for vulnerable communities. Known for her hands-on commitment to residents, she continues to fight for social, racial, and economic equity

Norlandy A. Aguirre, Owner, Norlandy’s Beauty Salon & Facial — Community Advocacy Award. Norlandy Aguirre Lizcano is a renowned Colombian stylist and cosmetologist with more than 40 years of experience. He founded Norlandy’s Beauty Salon & Spa in Elizabeth, NJ, earning international awards and recognition for excellence in beauty and customer care. Beyond his professional success, he has been a dedicated advocate for the Latin community both in the United States and Colombia, currently serving as Social Manager in La Celia, Risaralda, Colombia. His leadership and service continue to inspire and uplift those around him.

Flor Gonzalez, President, Latin American Coalition — Trailblazer Award. Flor M. Gonzalez is a trailblazing community leader and the first Hispanic Certified Housing Commissioner in the United States. For decades, she has dedicated her life to public service, housing development, and advocacy, making a profound impact across Union County and beyond. As President of the Latin American Coalition since 1995, she has spearheaded programs in ESL, American history, citizenship training, and community assistance, helping countless families find their footing and thrive. She currently serves as Chairperson of the Plainfield Advisory Commission for Hispanic Affairs and co-chair of the Union County Human Relations Commission, continuing her tireless work to empower underserved communities, support youth and families, and strengthen civic participation. Her leadership has earned numerous awards, including the Union County Woman of Excellence Award, Outstanding Community Leadership honors from the New Jersey Senate and Assembly, and recognition from national organizations for her commitment to advocacy and progress.

Neighborhood Preservation Program (NPP) Colombian District — Business Leadership Award. Accepted by Mariver Arcure, this award recognizes the NPP’s ongoing efforts to strengthen and revitalize Elizabeth’s Colombian District. Administered by the NJ Department of Community Affairs in partnership with the City of Elizabeth, the program supports small businesses, improves public spaces, and preserves cultural and economic identity. With a five-year grant, NPP is helping create a vibrant, inclusive, and economically resilient neighborhood that reflects the pride and potential of its residents

The event highlights Union County’s commitment to celebrating cultural diversity and honoring those who contribute to its growth.

Hispanic Heritage Month runs annually from September 15 through October 15, with events and programs across the county highlighting the rich traditions and lasting impact of the Latino community.

For a full schedule of Union County Hispanic Heritage Month events, visit www.ucnj.org/hhm.