Township Council Reports

I was with Manny last night and the mayor at the visioning meeting. It was really exciting. It was crowded, a packed house, and the dialogue among the residents was really exciting. There were a lot of out-of-the-box ideas we started to hear, and it is important that we are proactive and make sure it looks as much like we want it to look as possible. In the case that we are in Mayor's Wellness: right now it is finals and AP exams, and kids are feeling stress and anxiety. There are resources through the Mayor's Wellness website, and six little things they have here: start building your resilience, reducing your stress, getting quality sleep, strengthening your social connections, learning how to cope with loss -- and that could be the loss of an A grade as well -- and being mindful in your life. There are resources there. Kids, if you notice something, they need your help. If I can connect my two committees, the Mayor's Youth Council, for Mental Health Awareness Month, has created a calm center at the teen portion of the library upstairs. They have coloring pages, rubbing stones, and we had slime until it stuck to the carpet in the library; now that is at the front of the library. If you are studying in the library for AP exams, check out the calm corner and think like a kindergartner. All those activities you did in kindergarten work. It is very calming and soothing, and it centers you a little bit. I also wanted to talk about the primary coming up. Make sure that if you are doing early voting or vote by mail, you get it in. Our early voting is in the Highlander Room this year too. If you do vote by mail, you have to vote by mail. It is your civic responsibility to vote. That is the one thing that we really all should be doing, so I encourage everyone to vote. There is early voting in Berkeley Heights this year; I do not have to drive to New Providence in June and November. It is ten days, so just a public-service announcement: we are not using the Highlander Room for ten days in late May into June and October into November. We are moving seniors in here and shuffling people around. Our election commissioner, Deb Barer, got that done. The senator wanted another location on the ridge, and she advocated to have it here. The primary was moved this year; it is June 10. I think that is all I have. Happy end of the school year as well; we will be out by the time I see you next.

I do not know if it is government-appropriate, but ditto. I am away, so I had that perspective of not knowing and not seeing what was going on in my own house. I want to shout out my neighbor for going into my basement and checking, because we have to depend on each other. We are a community. I am going to go back to drains for a second. If you have a drain in front of your house, once a week take a peek, because if we keep those drains clean it helps. I know it seems like our DPW can get around to every drain, but leaves and branches can fall at any time. I would love to know what it would cost for them to run every day through our town, and your taxes would go up. If we could all do a little bit of community service and keep the drain in front of your house free of debris, that would really help. Once a week, take a peek. I am working on two grants right now. I am working on a Mayor's Wellness grant in combination with our veterans to bring yoga to our veterans for mental-health awareness. It is a little tricky because you have to be a 501(c)(3), so I am trying to figure out how to get that grant. The other one I am working on is Littell-Lord, which is due at the end of August. It seems like a long time away, but I know it is going to pop up really quickly. We have to just keep piecemeal, piecemeal, piecemeal plodding away at those little grants until we get the project done. Stay safe, everyone. Check your drains now. That is all I have.

I am going to keep it short as well. I am working on two different grants. They are both due in the next three weeks, and school starts on September 2, the night of our council meeting. One is for Littell-Lord, and the other is through Mayor's Wellness for the Veterans Yoga Project.

I have submitted two grants in the last three weeks: a $127,000 grant from Union County to go to Littell-Lord, so fingers crossed on that one, and then a $15,000 grant to the State of New Jersey for the Mayor's Wellness Committee for what I call the IVY Project, the Illustrative Veterans Yoga Project. It is to bring yoga to help veterans with dealing with mental health, and it is illustrative because whatever they learn they can then take with them and help others in that way. We have a Grants Committee meeting on Monday, and the meeting is specifically related to trying to get grants for flooding issues. That said, I want to wish everyone who celebrates a happy Rosh Hashanah. It is the Jewish New Year, and that is all I have. [After the mayor's report, before acceptance of the reports:] I did something tonight that is not like me, and I had a hard day at work, and that is no excuse. I usually am very civil in my discourse, so I really want to apologize to the community. I guess nobody was listening and I just got really frustrated, but I should not have reacted the way I did tonight. I would not like it in my classroom if I saw it, so I would have the peacemaker come over and give a little hug to someone who is frustrated. Margaret, next time I want to do that, just give me a little hug. I apologize; I really do. Thank you for understanding where my frustration lay.

A little piggybacking. For the Fall Festival, I am honored to do some tours of the Littell-Lord House. I am doing two hours of tours, so come see me down there. The grant that I submitted for $127,000: we are still waiting to hear on that. It should be, I think, November or December. But the Mayor's Wellness grant, we should hear by the 15th, so fingers crossed on that; that is for veterans. Tomorrow night is Planning Board, and while the council met in small groups with Dr. Fan and the proposal for Terrace 2, now he comes before the Planning Board. That is what is happening tomorrow night if anyone is interested in attending that meeting. We have comments and concerns from DBC, from council members, and the Environmental Commission, so I look forward to an engaging discussion tomorrow night.

We talked about the Fall Festival, and I did get the chance to sing. I am sorry that was not filmed, because that was fantastic. I heard yesterday from the Mayor's Wellness Campaign that the state grant was supposed to be awarded on the 15th. They have extended it until later this week, so we are still waiting on eggshells to see if we got that veterans grant. I wanted to wish everyone who celebrates a happy Diwali. It is all about light and color, and one thing that unites us is that most of our communities celebrate with light. Light is important to every culture. To piggyback on breast cancer: as someone who has had breast cancer, and I know there are other people in the room but I am not going to out them because it is personal, get your mammograms. You have to get your mammograms; that is how they find it. To piggyback on Adopt a Drain, I cleaned my drains on Saturday, and then I was out again today and the same drains I just cleaned have to be cleaned again because the leaves are falling. Again, I will say, once a week take a peek at least, but I am doing it twice a week right now and clearing out those leaves. On e-bikes, I was at the event for most of it, and I think it was great that there were parents of kids who were following the rules, so they felt very frustrated by kids who are not following the rules. If you follow the forum, it can be a little scary. I just heard that kids are going through Stop & Shop from one end to the other. Our police captain is keeping his finger on the pulse of what is happening. I agree that we need rules. In the old days, you had your horse and carriage and then the horseless carriages came, and we had to figure out that partnership because a lot of people did not like the horseless carriages, a.k.a. cars. I do not think e-bikes are going away, so we have to figure out how everyone can be safe on the road and share the road. That is all I have.

When I said some are joyful, this is a hard time for some people who struggle not just financially but emotionally and mentally. Check on your neighbors if you know of anything. We do have a Mayor's Wellness Committee, and I am just going to share, not privately but not publicly, a little story that happened this week. Someone reached out on our committee and there was a family in need of a bicycle for a father to get to work. Everyone jumped on it, and we got not only a donation of a bicycle, we got a Segway and an e-scooter, right before Thanksgiving. The town was so bountiful with its donations and ideas, and people wanted to know whether the kids needed things. I live in this town, I love this town, and I appreciate everyone in this town for their generosity. Just be mindful that it is a stressful time. Some tips from the Mayor's Wellness Committee: accept imperfection during the holiday season. We do not have to be perfect. Nobody is perfect. As we say in my classroom, do not lose sight of what really counts. Respond with kindness, and rethink your resolutions. It is a hard time for some people, myself included, so I am just putting that out there. On grants: unfortunately, we did not get that Mayor's Wellness grant again, but I have an offer from someone in town who got a grant through Mountainside. She is going to work with me on the next application, and hopefully her ingenuity and success will help us get to that next level. That is next Monday, and that is all I have.

I will start my reports and end with Manny. For grants, I want to thank Deb Barer for helping me with the Mayor's Wellness grant. We are working together to try to get us to that next level. For some reason they did not like what I had to say last year, so she is giving me great insight. That is due January 16, so fingers crossed. Berkeley Heights received $322,825 from the state for improvements to Rutherford Road, Harding Drive, and the Coolidge Drive roadway preservation project -- more money off the taxpayers' backs. Mayor's Wellness met two weeks ago. Everyone, keep January 31 on the radar; that is going to be our next big wellness event in town. Now I am going to talk about Manny a little bit. Manny, I love the way you ride up on your bike to summer events, and I am curious whether there has ever been an event you missed. One thing I love about you is that you get all my movie references when no one else does. Sometimes working in government can be a little dry, and while I am not a big fan of network happy talk, I feel like you are a good balance up here where we get the work done. A wise man once said to me, 'There is no Republican or Democratic way to fix a pothole,' and you walk that walk, so I appreciate that. Good luck on your next endeavor, whatever that is, but I am sure you will be around town helping us do other projects. Thank you for that and good luck. One more thing: go Battle of the Bulbs. Make sure you get your map. Until Saturday you can vote. I have checked out a few already. You can still order the Rotary luminaries as well.

Hi. I guess I'm last but not least. I'm actually working on a grant—the AARP Challenge Grant—for spicing up Peppertown Park. We tried once through T-Mobile, but that's nationwide. This is nationwide too, but I think we have a little bit of an in because they texted me to let me know the grant was available, so that's a good thing. The Mayor's Wellness event is on January 31st, and I'm having a brain-change moment. What's it called? The happiness retreat. So it is on the 31st. President Foster has a QR code somewhere. I looked on the website and didn't see it. Once we get that up there, you can access it. It was a great event last year. Lots of different events are happening, and we all met last week. The event sounds really, really engaging, and it's a great way to meet your community. The Planning Board met to reorganize, but nothing happened, and the next meeting was canceled. I also wanted to mention snow removal. I know Liza put it on the website, which is great because I walk my dog a lot. I think some people aren't realizing that it is your responsibility to shovel a sidewalk in front of your house. If your house abuts another street, even if it is not in front of your house, you're responsible for that sidewalk as well. I wish everyone a nice snow day this weekend—or World Snow Day. That's all I have.

It was hard. Thank you. So that said, I'm going to let the mayor talk about Mayor's Wellness. I'm just finishing up the AARP Challenge Grant for spicing up Peppertown Park; I just have to do the budget. I'm researching a first-responder grant and a pedestrian-safety grant, which Margaret is going to give you some information on. The book club meets Thursday the 12th at [location unclear] at 7:00, and the book is 'Creating Happiness and Health in Moments of Connection.' One thing at Mayor's Wellness that spoke to me was the relational game we played. We had to work with someone we did not know and have a nice discussion. It was hard for me because I knew a lot of people in that room, but I did find someone. Earlier, before our meeting, we raised the flag for Black History Month. I'm not going to read my whole thing, but I do want to read one part. The 2026 theme is 'A Century of Commemorating Black History Month.' This year, when we are also commemorating the 250th anniversary of United States independence, it's important to tell not only an inclusive history, but an accurate one. We've never had more need to examine the role of Black History Month than we do when forces seek to use legislative means and book bans to change and erase Black history from American school and public culture. Black history's value is not just its contribution to mainstream historical narratives, but the lives of Black people. Then we sang a lovely, lovely song by Sly and the Family Stone, which we could recreate for you if you stay after the meeting—acapella. That's all I have. Thank you so much.

There are three things I want to piggyback on. To piggyback on being kind and on pets: a few of us have noticed that Columbia Park is full of pet waste. We do have an ordinance in town, Ordinance 13-05. You are supposed to contain your pet waste; you're supposed to pick it up. There is a fine of up to $500 if you are caught leaving pet waste. Columbia Park is—and I'm going to use the word—disgusting. There's pet waste everywhere. The snow will melt, it will drop down, and it is a health hazard. I want to remind everyone: please pick up your pet waste and dispose of it in a container. It's a responsibility of a pet owner, and it's kind to our community. The other piggyback is that the power of the personal letter is a real thing. We've gotten away from handwriting letters to people. My friend from high school wrote me a letter, and I immediately wrote back. There is some power in that. I submitted the AARP Challenge Grant for $14,710 to spice up Peppertown Park. I attended the Cover Girls library event here on Sunday. It was great—'60s music—and I saw residents cheering and singing. I was one of the ones singing aloud, and they encouraged that, so that was good. I want to wish a happy Lunar New Year to anyone who celebrates. If you want to celebrate with our community, you can celebrate at the Y on Sunday at 4:00. Saturday at 5:00 is the Mayor's Wellness 'Love Yourself' dance party. Some high-school girls will teach dance moves. We'll have lovely chocolate snacks and socks to give out to everyone, and an affirmation station. It's going to be a really great event. I hope we see a lot of people there. That's all.

I want to piggyback with Andrew, Margaret, Bill, and Alvaro about all that. It was roughly a 10-year storm, and it was crazy. While we're sleeping through the storm, they're out working and clearing our streets. That said, I want to remind people not to use social media to register complaints. We have a very responsive township administrator. Please call or email her directly, because posting complaints on social media doesn't really get you [caption trails off]. They're all neighbors. I want to talk about Read Across America for a second. It was yesterday. Today's Tuesday—the third; that's why we're here. The second is Dr. Seuss's birthday, and that was the beginning of Read Across America through the NEA, the National Education Association. The theme this year is 'Champion Kindness,' with an overarching theme of creating and celebrating a nation of diverse readers. It fosters a culture of empathy, connection, and inclusion by highlighting books that reflect diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences. The other thing is National Grammar Day tomorrow, the 4th. I think because of texting we've lost an ability to speak with appropriate grammar, and it makes us sound more professional when we actually speak with good grammar. There are different things you can get, like a word of the day, to learn vocabulary words and learn the difference between 'me' and 'I' when you're speaking. I also attended 'Love Yourself,' and shout-out to Becca Robinson and the rest of the Mayor's Wellness Committee. She did a fantastic job. The Highlander Room was beautiful—red and sparkly—and everyone had a really good time. As Margaret said, I am teaching Mah Jongg. Our first night was last night. I've been a 24-year educator, and I was more nervous last night than at any observation or parent-teacher night. The feedback was that I did all right, so we'll see what happens. I was really happy to see people learning the new game. It's good for the mind as you get older; these kinds of games are really great for your mind. That's all I had. Thank you.

Uh yeah, thank you mayor. Um, so I'm still working um waiting for the ARPA to see if we're a healthy town grant. I'm waiting on the I'm sorry that was from the mayor's wellness committee. The ARP grant is spice up Pepper Town Park. I've been waiting to hear about that and I'm working on two different grants for these fire PPEs. So they are expensive. The So the grants are small, but there's a few of them that I'm working on. I hope to see everyone at the Taste of Berkeley Heights on the 23rd and at the Healthy Habits on Saturdays. And that's all I've got. Thank you.

Uh so really exciting news. We received the healthy town designation. There's three levels of designation from the mayor's wellness campaign. We finally got the top one. So sweet. Thank you to all the mayor's wellness campaign committee members and all the activities that we've been doing. And if you haven't come to one of our events yet, please come. They're really a lot of fun. You get to meet all the people in your community. Um, so when you're here on the spice up Peppertown Park grant, no news is good news. I did submit the grant for the structural turnout gear for the firefighters. Our first responders put their lives on the line every day to save people. It's essential they have rescue equipment if it can take a little burden off. Liza and her budget, we're trying to do that. I'm currently looking into a historical preservation or historical program grant and another grant for the firefighters and I want to give a shout out to Steve Carellis who emailed me and he informed me about a program available via uh Tom Kane's office. There are federal grants to support local environments. So I'm looking into that. Yeah. On April 25th I'll be attending a land use symposium at RBCC where there'll be roundts on affordable housing and general land use for board members. So stay tuned for my notes on that. And I just want to talk about a little bit about the D. So rain, snow, melting snow, it has pollution directly into our local waterways. And when water flows over our lawns, parking lots, streets, it creates what we call storm water runoff. And we know in Brooklyn that we have some flooding issues. The water travels through gutters, catch basins, storm dre, and ditches. And here's the important part. It usually flows straight into our streams, rivers, and lakes without any treat. So as it travels, it picks up all these unwanted items. fast food wrapper or cigarette butts, styrofoam cups, uh motor oil, antifreeze, fertilizer, pesticide, pet waste. The result, polluted water that harms fish and wildlife, damages natural habitats, contaminates our drinking water, and even closes uh some of the beaches locally. Uh but the good news is we all have the power to make a difference. Most storm water pollution comes from everyday human activities. Whatever we put on the ground or into storm drains finds its way into our water. It means each of us has an important role in keeping these contaminants out. The quality of our water depends on the choices we make every day. So simple things you could do. We all know use for use, recycle, but be a good neighbor. If you see trash or litter on your property and dispose of it, you're helping your community. If you're out and about, always use your public trash cans. Uh particular storm drips. Never, ever, ever throw litter or debris duck directly into storm dunes. And this also means leaves. Do not rake your leaves into storm drains. That's not where they go. This trash ends up in our waterways and in our blocking up our drains and it leads to street flooding and traffic back up. And that is cigarette butts, too, right? Driving along and they flicking out the window. They end up in our in our water and clogging up our our drains. And if you haven't heard about fatburgs yet, look up fatburggs. And um that's really all I have, but we all can do a small part. If we all do something small every day, it does make a difference. So, thank you.

Okay, so I want to give a shout-out to Amy Acorn. I wish she'd stay for the whole meeting, but um so when residents said we wish there was mahjongg at night, Amy jumped right in, and we have a thriving mahjongg Monday night group. So, if you want to join us on Monday nights, we had to move to the Highlander room cuz we have so many people. Um I just put a grant in for fire safety tech jackets, and I'm working on one for fire canisters now. Tomorrow is Earth Day, even though every day should be Earth Day, and one thing everyone can do is turn off your engines and don't idle. Saturday, I'm heading to the land use workshop for planning board members at Raritan Valley, so I'll have a little report about that when I get back. And if anyone's looking to for um some interesting work, if you want to help me on grants committee, I would always love some help writing grants. And that's all I have for today. Thank you and thanks for the reminder.

Thank you, Mayor. Um so just a montage on Mania update, we had 45 people last week. I saw the nice tie ribbons and hearts. Last week it was 28. So, it's Mahjong Mania on Monday nights here at the the high meadow room. We had to move twice. We moved from the high meadows room to the teen scene and now we're down here. I did attend, I'm sure you're going to talk about this, the a meeting you had at the Rotary with Chief May, but I just want to share one thing I learned. They have this vacation watch thing, which if you go on vacation, you can register with the police department and they keep an eye on your our house and I did not know that I not attended that event. Yeah. Yeah, it's too late for you now. Yeah. But that's that's a service our police department's doing been doing for the last year. I had no idea. So, when you get out and you listen to the mayor and our and our chief, you learn some things. So, I learned something. Um I attended the land use symposium 2 weeks ago and I learned a lot about zoning and planning boards and one of the cool activities we did was called hypotheticals and they presented us with hypothetical cases that were actually cases but they couldn't know which town it was. And then the people in the audience got to see ask questions and then make a decision and then the experts kind of funneled what was good about our decision and what wasn't so good about our decision. So, it was a really good learning experience. Um we need to hear about the Spice of Peppertown grant. They said it's coming in May. We should know in May if we got that grant. I submitted a grant for Union County for the historical preser- coins. Uh what are they called? The Google challenge. Challenge coins and then also a uh George Washington interpreter. And someone just did me the Declaration of Independence. So, hopefully we get that grant from Union County. I put in a firefighter grant and I'm working on one that opened yesterday. It's due Thursday for self-contained breathing apparatuses and that's for $10,000. Um so, I'll have that in on Thursday for sure. Great guru. What? The great Yeah, yeah, it's my new name, the great guru. And that is all I have. Oh, wait, one more thing. Yesterday I wore the slow Kimberly Ann Wilson um foundation but did a presentation. mental health at our school. It was unbelievable and I'm so proud to work with Marion Wilson on our mayor's wellness. She's amazing and it was just an amazing presentation that's K-1 and 2 and they were just so engaged and he was fantastic, really fantastic. So, thank you to Marion Wilson and her foundation.

Uh so, thank you, Mayor. Mahjong Mania meets on Monday nights. We had 46 people. We actually ran out of tables. We had to That's great. figure things out. Yeah, it's really very exciting and a lot of fun. It's bringing a lot of people together. And now we have a young young boy with us, too. So, we have some men, young boy. Um I wanted to mention something. I actually saw this out in the lobby. Um It's from Union County. So, your Union County dollars can work for you. Um there's something called NACK. It's free tutoring for students in Union County. And they have free online tutoring for public school students in grades 5 to 8. So, it's uh if you go to unioncountynjjoinnacktutoring.com, you can get started with some free tutoring. So, just another service from our county. Um I want to talk again. I know I sound like I'm repeating myself a lot. Please don't idle. It's bad for the planet and it's bad for our lungs. Um problem at the schools even though the signs are out. And so, I'm going to request that everyone please stop idling. Um the e-bikes. I'm really glad that we have and I really want to thank Margaret and the Green Street. Thanks to Tina and South there as well and Steve for your all your input on the e-bike ordinance and again we have to learn how to work together. Just earlier we had the AAPI flag raising and this year's theme is power immunity strengthening communities together and as I look out here, like this is our little tiny part of our community, but if you look up at the leader view these are leaders in our community. Joe's always here, Steve's always here, Matt Nangle's always here, Bobby Pierce here, our board of ed president uh person just left and Dana's here. Like these are the leaders in our community. It's not just us sitting up here cuz we can't do it without you. It's strengthening communities together. Um Oh. I think you. I'm being babble too much today. So and I'm sorry I'm going to be missing the Memorial Day parade. I have a family obligation every year of Memorial Day weekend and I don't get to see my family that much. So um I will be marching in spirit. Mhm. And just a shout out to our birthday boys. Tom Monster happy birthday today. Happy birthday Al, happy birthday yesterday.

Thank you. Um, so yes, we raised the pride flag today and I'm proudly an ally for the pride uh the LGBTQ community. I'm going to send my speech that I gave tonight to the tap. So I will not be repeating it here tonight. Um, ma jang is so popular that even though I'm away this summer, I talked to Amy and we're going to do open table ma jang and there may be an instructor and there may not, but people could still come and play because they just want to keep the energy going. So that's really exciting for them. Um, my biggest thing is like did you learn how to read? because that's the hardest thing you'll ever do. If you learn how to read, you can play Maja. So, you can learn. Yeah. Okay. [clears throat] So, I also was um today by executive order put on the library board. I did go to the meeting last night before I had the executive order, but I just want to say I don't know if people notice know this, the friends of the library have these museum passes and there's lots of museum passes there. I did one to the Monontlair Art Museum and you check them out for a period of time and it's free to go to the museums and they just added two more including the Philadelphia Museum which is a great one. Um, it was told to me that craft afternoon is the most popular Monday activity at 3:30 for kids. And I don't know if you also know Canopy and Hoopla, if you don't have any streaming channels, like I don't have a lot of streaming channels. You can go to Canopy and Hoopla through our library and get movies. Uh, Libby for e-readers and your Star Ledger Art if you want to do it through our library and learn a language with Mango language. So, the library has a lot of great tools and a lot of that is supported by friends of the library and I do hear what you're saying. So, we're not going to ignore that. But, um, the library does offer things besides the books to read to appeal to all our residents. I also attended the street fair. It was fantastic. Great day. And that's all I have tonight.

As Councilman Couto mentioned, today is World Bee Day, observed annually May 20. It is on TAPinto; Berkeley Heights becomes an affiliate of Bee City USA. If you want to read the article, it is up there on TAP. This started with a beekeeper born in Slovenia in May 1734. I mentioned this at the last meeting, not realizing we had a meeting on World Bee Day. Take care of your pollinators. The purpose of World Bee Day is to raise awareness about the essential role bees and other pollinators play in maintaining biodiversity, food security, and environmental sustainability. The Memorial Day parade kicks off on Snyder at Locust by the VFW Hall at 9:30 on Monday, Memorial Day. See you all there. The Mayor's Wellness Committee is having a 'Move Your Body, Lift Your Life' event at Disco Ride, 79 Industrial Road, Saturday, May 31, from 7 to 9 p.m. Join the Mayor's Wellness Committee for a high-energy Zumba class about movement, music, and feeling good, led by instructor Dani Mendes and set to an electrifying global soundtrack. This 45-minute full-body workout boosts strength, endurance, and mood while promoting whole-person wellness through the joy of dance. Celebrate community, support your well-being, and move freely to your favorite tracks. It is $15 and you have to preregister; this is on the website and there is a QR code. Pride Month takes place June 1 through June 30. This extended period allows a wide range of events, parades, marches, and discussions, providing opportunities for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies to come together and make their voices heard. Our Pride Month flag raising will be June 3 at 6 p.m. at Town Hall. Portugal Day is officially the national holiday of Portugal and is observed June 10. We will have a flag raising for Portugal Day on June 10; the time is to be determined, here at Town Hall. This day remembers the death of Luis de Camoes, recognized as the country's greatest national icon and best known for his poem narrating the story of Portuguese exploration in the 15th century, accepted as a national poem in Portugal. Because his birthday is uncertain, his death date, June 10, 1580, is commemorated as Portugal's national day. June 14 is Flag Day. It celebrates the birthday of the United States flag, first adopted June 14, 1777. I have had a flag in front of my home since the day I moved in. I would also like to wish everyone a happy Father's Day, celebrated June 15, the third Sunday, celebrating fathers and the crucial role they play in people's lives. The next Historic Preservation Committee meeting is June 12 at 7:30 p.m. in Town Hall. Our big topic will be the Fall Festival at the Littell-Lord Farmhouse, which we hope will be bigger than last year. If I play my cards right, I will have two videos coming up on Happening in the Heights on Friday.

The Historic Preservation Committee had its meeting. We discussed construction on the building and the Fall Festival on October 18, with rain date October 19. We are going to combine with the PBA fishing derby on the same day as the festival, so bring your poles. It is October 18. The PBA approached us about having the fishing derby the same day. It is not just our festival; it is theirs also. There was discussion about possibly getting the Rotary Club involved again and having their rubber-ducky event, so we will reach out and hopefully that comes to fruition. Stay tuned. We had flag raisings for Pride Month, Portugal Day on June 10, and Juneteenth on June 19. We are taking the summer off and will reconvene in September. Today is National Handshake Day. This day was created to remind people of the power of a simple gesture for building trust and connection. Handshakes have been a symbol of peace and trust since ancient times, particularly in Greece and Rome. It is a universal gesture for greeting, expressing agreement, and showing respect. A firm handshake can make a lasting impact in personal or professional settings and is good for building relationships. Tomorrow is National Sunglasses Day, celebrated June 27. It promotes the importance of wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet radiation. It is a joint effort by the Vision Council and other organizations to raise awareness of the health benefits of sunglasses beyond fashion. That is all I have.

Tomorrow, August 20, is National Radio Day, honoring one of the world's greatest inventions. We all have one and have listened to it. Radio was invented through teamwork over many years, not by one person: scientists like Michael Faraday discovered electricity and magnetism basics, Maxwell predicted radio waves, and Hertz proved they existed in the 1880s. Tesla, Bose, and Popov experimented with wireless signals, but Marconi made radio practical, sending signals across the Atlantic in 1901. Their combined work created the radio we know today. I bring it up because we here are a team. We all work together and try to get the best out of everything. August 21 is Senior Citizens Day, commemorating the elderly and appreciating them as pillars of our community. We seek wisdom and guidance from older people and learn valuable lessons from their life experiences. Senior citizens are known for generosity and willingness to assist in times of need. The senior picnic was at Columbia Park and, although I did not make it, I understand it was a great day. August 26 is Women's Equality Day, commemorating the 19th Amendment, which in 1920 gave women the right to vote. 'You've come a long way, baby.' The Historic Preservation Committee took the day off, but the festival will be October 18 from noon to 4 at the Littell-Lord house and grounds; the rain date is October 19, noon to 4. Our first flag raising of the season will be for Hispanic Heritage Month, September 16 at 6 p.m., before the 6:30 council meeting. Come out for music, laughs, and history. That is all I have.

The Historic Preservation Committee met. Our big event is the Littell-Lord Festival on October 18 from noon to 4, with rain date October 19. The library and Rotary will have tables, we will have vendors, and the PBA will have the fishing derby. We raised the flag today in observance of Hispanic Heritage Month, but tomorrow is Citizenship Day, an American federal observance recognizing adoption of the U.S. Constitution and those who became U.S. citizens. World Mental Health Day is Friday, October 10. I bring that up because Sunday, September 21, is the Kimberly Wilson Berkeley Heights 5K Race for Mental Health. If you want to get out for a nice walk or run, it is an awesome event. Come out for it. The start time is 9:30 a.m. and the distance is 5K.

October 18 at noon we are going to have the Littell-Lord Fall Festival. You have been hearing me talk about this since last year. We are gearing up and finalizing everything. It will be noon to 4 at the Littell-Lord House on Horseshoe Road. The rain date is October 19, the same time. We will have vendors, food, and all kinds of things; come out and have a good time. October 12 is the 54th annual Pageant of Champions, where the Governor Livingston Highlander Marching Band hosts. The marching-band competition starts at 12:30 at Governor Livingston High School's football field. Come cheer as eight local high-school marching bands and your GL Highlanders compete. The Highlander band is always last and is not judged because it is the host band. Admission is $10, cash or Venmo at the door. Students of all grades wearing school attire and teachers with ID are free. They have a 50/50, band merchandise, and the Highlander chili is to die for -- and the macaroni and cheese is awesome.

National First Responders Day is observed October 28, commemorating the heroic acts of the men and women first to reach an emergency. It is about showing appreciation for firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, police, and others who risk their lives to save others, so put that on your calendar. This past Saturday was just freaking awesome. The Historic Preservation Committee had the fourth annual Littell-Lord Farm Festival. I want to thank committee chair Amalia Maderos, vice chair Louisa Goldman, Camille Mazucco, Brian Bernstein, Sean Kane, Lisa D., Michelle, Stephen Yellin, Rick Sixius, Jim Skidmore, and everyone who helped. I would also like to thank Council Vice President Poage for doing two hours of tours and singing with the Good Time String Band, our administrator for her due diligence, event chair Karen Castles for going over and above, and DPW for cones, barricades, removing overgrowth, and cleaning the property. Now we just have to make the house look good to match the property. It was a fantastic day with great weather. I handled cars in the parking lot, and we did not lose any cars this year. We had vendors, food, Trap Rock at the beer tent, the high-school a cappella group, woodworking, the art teacher, and the newspaper taking pictures. The Good Time Band was a great last-minute addition, with old-fashioned music. Rob Downey is our newest member, and it was his father. About 800 people may have come through, with about 200 going through the house. People noticed the improvements from last year, and the event is on people's radar. The PBA fishing derby was there, and kids were fishing until 5 p.m. We had the spooky Boy Scout trail. It was a real community event. If I missed anybody, I apologize; so many people were involved. It takes a village, and that is what it did here. Thank you.

I would like to congratulate Alvaro and Susan on their win yesterday. The Historic Preservation Committee meets next Thursday, the 13th, and we will unpack everything that happened at the wonderful festival on October 18. If you were not there, you missed a fantastic day, but it comes around next year, Saturday, October 17, with a rain date Sunday the 18th. We also received a $20,000 grant for the Littell-Lord property through Susan and the Grants Committee. I appreciate that, and so does the committee. The Marine Corps birthday is Monday, November 10. It commemorates when the Continental Marines were established as an armed force of the United States in 1775 and honors Marines who have defended the country since America was born. The Marine Corps motto is Semper Fidelis, 'always faithful' in Latin. Veterans Day is Tuesday, November 11. There will be a Veterans Day event at Memorial Field, with details to follow on the website. Veterans Day honors all military veterans, fallen and living, who served in wartime and peacetime. November 11 was originally designated in 1919 to commemorate the end of World War I, known as Armistice Day until it became Veterans Day in 1954. America Recycles Day is Saturday, November 15. It educates people about the positive impact recycling has on the world and environment and encourages purchase of recyclable products. Upcoming recycling days are November 12 and 26 for the west side and November 19 for the east side; the map is on the township website. You can drop off thin plastics at DPW the first and third Saturday of the month. The fall leaf-pickup program began October 20; see the township website for details. Berkeley Heights is teaming with Union County for a community food drive through November 30. Donations can be dropped in the lobby at 29 Park Avenue during posted hours, and Little Flower Church also accepts donations. That is all I have.

Thursday, December 4 is National Cookie Day. Cookies are an integral part of every occasion, whether a birthday, wedding, graduation, party, picnic, or something else, and come in many shapes, sizes, colors, and flavors. I found this because my mother brought chocolate-chip cookies on Thanksgiving, as she does every year. There is a cookie exchange at the library and a Highlander cookie walk. December 5 is International Volunteer Day, also known as Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development, a United Nations observance celebrated around the world. It is a day when volunteer organizations and their volunteers have their hard work commemorated and praised, and an opportunity for volunteers to show their work and encourage others to join. In our ordinances, we welcomed two new members of the Historic Preservation Committee, Jim Skidmore and Rob Downey, and Karen Castles came back after a short hiatus. They volunteer their time and bring unique perspectives and a wealth of knowledge about Berkeley Heights history. We also have a new volunteer firefighter. Firefighters, police, EMTs, and people who serve on committees volunteer their time. People need to know it is okay to volunteer; get out there and help. Sunday, December 7 is National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. It also goes to volunteers: people who served in the military that day and afterward through World War II, Korea, World War I, Vietnam, and everything. These people volunteer to step up and do the work, and I appreciate that. Around Thanksgiving, I am thankful for all the people who have done this, who come to my committee meetings and all our committee meetings, who volunteer and give of themselves. It makes me thankful to sit here with all of you between Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Hanukkah because of people who volunteered their time. I want to try to give more of myself going forward. To wrap up, I want to wish everyone who celebrates a happy Hanukkah, beginning the night of December 14 and running through December 22. Thank you.

First, I want to thank Amalia and the Historic Preservation Committee for all the hard work they are doing. At their last meeting, not only were they working on the 501(c)(3), we are still planning a fifth annual festival on October 17 with a rain date of October 18. If you have not been, come out, because this is the 250th anniversary of the country and we are going to have a blast. Saturday, December 20 is National Sangria Day. That one is for Manny and his love of wine. Sangria is a Portuguese and Spanish term originating in the 18th century, and its roots can be traced to the Middle Ages and the Kingdom of Leon, where a version was made using oranges, wine, sugar, lemons, and spices. National Sangria Day has been celebrated since 2010 and is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the drink. I happen to enjoy it myself. Last but certainly not least, Manny, I want to thank you for allowing me to sit next to you for all these years. It has been a pleasure working with you and having your wisdom, friendship, and humor all wrapped in this wonderful package sitting here. I really appreciate it. Thank you very much.

I'm first out of the gate. All right, right out of the gate. Here we go. Okay. The Historic Preservation Committee met last Thursday, and we got a lot of things in the hopper coming up for the 250th anniversary for the United States and also for the Littell-Lord Festival. We have a couple of special items coming up, so just be on the lookout for that. We're also looking for more volunteers. Anybody out there in TV land who wants to come out and join us, just reach out to Town Hall, get on the website, and you will see an application. Just fill it out for the Historic Preservation Committee. I also want to point out that Sunday, January 18th, was considered World Snow Day. It was organized by the International Ski Federation, an annual event to get children and families involved in snow sports. Now, I know Mother Nature was looking at that because she dumped a whole lot of stuff on us. So that's to encourage them to get out there and probably ski and snowboard and sled. Saturday, January 31st, is National Hot Chocolate Day. With winter being here, everybody loves hot chocolate. My son seems to go out of the house with one every morning. I don't know how that happens, but he likes making his own. If you want to have some hot chocolate, you can gather up with your loved ones by the fireplace and indulge in the rich, creamy goodness that brings a smile to everybody's face. Now, I don't know how Mother Nature does this too, but she dumped a whole lot of snow on us this past Sunday. It's probably going to do it again next weekend. But today is National Penguin Day. National Penguin Day is observed to celebrate the charming birds that bring much joy and love to the animal kingdom and a unique way of life. Penguins symbolize resilience, adaptability, community, and thriving in some of the most difficult climates on Earth while conquering hearts with their waddling beauty and playful behavior. National Penguin Day was founded in 1972. And that's all I have. Thank you.

The Historic Preservation Committee is going to meet next Thursday, the 12th, at 7:30. If you're interested in joining us, anybody out there in the audience or in TV land, just send an email. There's also an application on the town's website. I also want to mention that we were here on Saturday, and you can see that the Mayor's Wellness Committee brought some sunshine into the room and into the building. It was the best event ever, and I will let the mayor and Councilwoman Poage expand on that. That's all I have. Thank you.

First, I'd like to mention that the Historic Preservation Committee has been working hard to get a new group together. The new group is going to be called the Berkeley Heights Heritage Foundation, and we actually received our EIN number. So we are a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization. We're good to go, so once the donations pour in, bring it on. Tomorrow is National Drink Wine Day. It would be a shame to waste it just for one day, so imbibe if you can. Wine has benefits: moderate drinkers of wine have lower risks of liver disease, type 2 diabetes, certain kinds of cancer, heart attack, and stroke. It can also reduce bad cholesterol and increase the good. Friday the 20th is National Love Your Pet Day, for pet lovers to show affection for their best friends. Today is Random Acts of Kindness Day. It is to bring joy to people you come across. The day encourages people to do good deeds, to celebrate the pay-it-forward mentality. It reminds us to do something kind for someone else and have a big impact not only on their day but also on yours. Being kind to others makes us happier and makes us realize we need to be kinder to ourselves also. An act of kindness doesn't have to be a big gesture; sometimes the smallest act can have the biggest impact. Last but not least, February 26th is National Letter to an Elder Day. It's observed to combat senior loneliness by encouraging people to send handwritten letters, cards, and notes to older adults, particularly those in isolation. It encourages spreading love through kind and intergenerational communication. So write some letters on the 26th. That's all I got. Thank you.

Again. On February 29th [as captioned], the Mayor's Wellness Committee had a dance event. It was 'Love Yourself,' a self-love community celebration, and it was 'Dance Away for a Great Cause.' The cause was the Be Beautiful Project, which was created to support local women's shelters and the belief that everyone deserves to feel beautiful. I attended and had a great time. John Travolta has nothing to worry about. The instructors were great. We had little snacks for everybody and about 40 people in attendance. The mayor made a cameo by video wishing us all well, and Susan was out there cutting a rug with us. We had some laughs; it was good. If you can get out to any of these events, we post them, so please come out. March is Women's History Month, an annual observance to highlight the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society. March 8th is International Women's Day, a day to reflect on and celebrate the social, political, economic, and cultural accomplishments of women. Tuesday, March 10th, is Harriet Tubman Day. It honors the life and legacy of a courageous abolitionist known for helping enslaved people find freedom. The Historic Preservation Committee meeting is next Thursday, March 12th, at 7:30. Anybody out there in TV land who wants to come out and join us is welcome. The Berkeley Heights Education Foundation will host a basketball game featuring teachers and staff against the Harlem Wizards. It's Wednesday, March 11th, at 7:00; doors open at 6:00. Tickets are on sale at harlemwizards.com. It will be at Governor Livingston and should be a good time. The GL soccer team was in the state playoffs again this year and made it to the second round against Toms River, where the game went to overtime before GL was defeated 3-2. The team had a great season and is looking for bigger things next year. We have a St. Patrick's Day flag raising on March 16th at 6:00 p.m., prior to the council meeting. We'll have bagpipers from the GL High School marching band helping us with some tunes. I also want to thank the DPW, PD, FD, and First Aid Squad for all the work and effort they put in over the last storm. I appreciate everything they do. It was a big one, and they handled everything they could. I also thank the townsfolk for staying off the roads and making their jobs that much easier. Having people get stuck on a road was definitely not fun. Next Sunday, March 8th, is Daylight Saving Time. Set your clocks one hour ahead because spring is arriving regardless of what that groundhog said. Here's your PSA: change the batteries in your smoke detectors and save a life. The Lunar New Year celebration was canceled and rescheduled for Sunday, March 8th, at the YMCA from 4:00 to 6:00. Taste of Berkeley Heights was also canceled and is now March 23rd. Thank you.

Right. I'm out of the gate. Okay. Historic preservation committee. We uh had a meeting, but unfortunately we had to cancel it due other obligations from most of the people. So, we did a little email um back and forth. Uh, right out of the gate, we have the approval from the DCA to go out for proposals for the next phase of the hotel board restoration. I want to thank Rise to get that squared away for us because without her, I mean, I don't think any of this would be possible at this point. I really appreciate that. Um, so that the pre-qualification advertisements going out. Um, and uh, I'm not going to I'm not going to bore you with the details on that. Don't read it when it goes out. Um the 20th of March is international day happiness. It's celebrated annually. Uh but you're going to recognize happiness as a fundamental human goal as and universal aspiration. The reason I bring that up is because I want to see you all on Saturday, March 21st for the happy happy habits workshop. The mayor's wellness committee happy habits workshop. Happiness isn't just luck. We have uh we have some shamrocks on there. Um, it says, "How often are you living well? Be be part of this interactive workshop featuring a 30-minute talk on science of making habits stick. Learn more. Uh, learn how the eye and inspire helps you ascribe, describe, and prescribe simple actions that support well-being. Explore the three Rs, reminders, repetition, and rituals. discover how short daily MBI's minimum viable interventions can turn happiness booster into lasting habits. Um it's going to be Saturday, March 21st from 11 to 12. Uh it is on the town's website. Register by March 20th. Um we love to see you there. Come on down. Um I also want to um I also want to speak about March 26th is live long and prosper day. And this all goes into the whole mayor's wellness situation as celebrated because it's the birthday of Leonard Nemo who was famously portrayed Mr. Spock in the Star Trek series. Uh it was created this day to encourage reflecting on the Vulcan blessing to improve personal health, happiness, and prosperity often celebrated by sharing the iconic Vulcan salute. See, I can do that. How many you people out there at TV L can do that? Yeah, there you go. Let's go. Rock and roll. Um it's significant because it's iconic carrier and uh of Mr. Spock. It highlights the positive philosophy behind the Vulcan blessing. Um it also um aims to foster personal growth, purge kindness and promote longevity and prosperity like Thank you very much.

Out of the gate. I'm going to put myself in the clock here since I don't want to I don't want to but it already is. Um on Friday the February uh 8th February. Oh my god. Yeah, got numbers on the brain, too. Times 2026 Highlander Band Basket Apple will be up at the high school. Doors open at 6:30. Drawings at 8:30. Entrance fee is $15. Includes one block of 15 tickets and a door prize ticket. Um, reach out to GM marching band at gmgmail.com. They have over 125 baskets full of great prizes including electronics, lottery tickets, designer handbags, theater tickets, gift cards, etc., etc., etc. to come on out and support the band. Um, I just want to point out that this month is autism awareness month. Um, and an observance that raise awareness, promote acceptance to educate people, foster basic understanding of the autism spectrum disorder. Since we're on the library, this may be fitting. National Library Week is going to be celebrated uh April 19th through the 25th, 2026. National Library Day is going to be was actually yesterday, Monday, April 6th. So, um I also want to point out again our library is doing some great things out here. They uh just had a ribbon cutting for early literacy area and play kitchen. Um it's a space design to spark imagination, build foundational skills, and deepen the community's connection to its library. Um National Library Day also gives a chance to celebrate more and books on the shelf silence. It's a remind reminder of what libraries really are. Folks have access to knowledge community uh and opportunity. Um I also if you go on their website, they got some great things coming up for April. Uh well, yeah, it's probably over now, but they had a flower arranging class. It's actually right as we speak right now. It's a great event. And I want to point out something else that on Mondays at 7 o'clock, you can learn to play maong with council vice president over there. He can show you how to 27 people bouncing around from table to table. How to how to kick it. How to kick it. National Librarian Day is a Thursday, April 13. Uh April 16th. Um and uh I just the last one I've got here is kind of important. Volunteer recognition day is celebrated on April 20th to honor selfless contributions of volunteers worldwide as part of the broader national volunteer month for April. the April spring comes around and all these everything's happening in the springtime. Um, and it often aligns with National Volunteer Week, which runs from April 19th to the 25th in 2026. Um, just come out and volunteer, donate, you know, your time, your energy, be part of your community, make it a better place. Thank you.

Um this you're ready to vote. Historical Preservation Committee had a meeting last week and we're gearing up for the fall festival which we held October 17th from noon to 4:00. I know it's spring just got here, but talking about it anyway. You can hear it probably for the next 6 months at least. As well as some other tidbits along the way for our country's 250th birthdays, so stay tuned. We're also currently working on getting the Berkeley Heights Heritage Foundation up and running. We'll have more information on that as it comes in. Mental Health Awareness Month is coming up and begins on May 1st with a kickoff at The Green in Summit. We'll be having a flag raising and a ribbon tying Monday, May 4th. Kickoff time will be determined, so stay tuned for that also. The New Jersey Cross Town Mental Health Coalition is also painting the town green and we have 14 towns now participating in breaking down the barriers to mental health because one in five people experience mental health illness every year, so you are not alone. So, let's raise awareness and end the stigma. There are events all month in 14 towns as well as in ours, so please check our town website and you can find out about these events. There's a QR code which is on the calendar which will get you right directly to the calendar events. The coalition will also can be found on Facebook and Instagram. And while you're at it on the town website, please sign up for Mayor Bruno's community newsletter and get all the news that's fit to print right in your inbox. World Tai Chi Day is going to be held on Saturday the 25th of 2026 in Town Hall 10:00 a.m. So, come on down and just get well. Um I'd also like to point out that we passed a in the consent agenda that the 24th of April is going to be Arbor Day and just just plant a tree.

I think I'm all right. This is Mental Health Awareness Month and the theme for this year is more good days together. It encourages us all to reflect on what a good day looks like both for ourselves and our communities. Together we can use that insight to connect people to the right support at the right time and shape advocacy, education, and community engagement to make more good days possible for for all. The Mayor's Wellness Committee along with the Rotary Club did a flag raising at town hall and a ribbon tying along Springfield Avenue as well as placing ribbons very large ribbons um that were made by the Chill Wood Shop teacher Mike Morasca. Uh we placed them out in front of all the schools. I want to thank everyone who helped with this endeavor. I also attended the Paint the Town Green Kickoff Summit of the 14 other towns that make up the New Jersey Cross Town Mental Health Coalition. This grassroots initiative highlights the growing recognition that meaningful mental health support begins at local level. By engaging residents, schools, businesses, and municipal leaders, the coalition is helping foster environments where individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered to seek help. Yeah, what is it now? Foster said Foster. Sorry. I'm silly mood. I also want to mention that this is Teacher Appreciation Week and for the teachers out there, all right? Well, you got their TV land also. They celebrated this week from May 4th through May 8th and we need to take a moment to recognize the extraordinary dedication, patience, and passion for educators. We are deeply grateful for the commitment our teachers show, both during and under challenging circumstances, and for the lasting difference it makes they make in the lives of our students and their families. Also, I want to mention that this month, May, is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Uh and we recognize the contributions and influences of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islanders. We're having a flag raising on May 19th at 6:00 p.m. at Town Hall just prior to our Council meeting. Every year on May 15th, Police Officers Memorial Day honors and pays tribute to the police and law enforcement officers uh who lost their lives and have been disabled in the line of duty while protecting our communities. Please keep these past officers who this is dedicated to, as well as those currently serving our community, in your prayers, and thank them for their service to our community. On April 25th, this historic preservation committee had the pleasure of hosting the Swanback family, Ellen and Steve, on a tour of the Palouse Warehouse. Ellen was a resident of the Palouse Warehouse for some years, uh and they were in the area visiting family, so they stopped by to take a look and see what the house is like now. They were really too impressed with it, I might say, cuz it's not that then and or they kind of wanted to. Anyway, um they were happy to come back. Um and I just as an anecdote, she told me that back in the day they used to they used to take go on a horse-drawn sleigh up and down Snyder Avenue, where there was Miller Court. So, um the next meeting of our preservation committee will be on Thursday, April 14th, at 7:30. We're working hard on our plans for a fall festival on October 17th, 12:00 to 4:00, and you're going to be hearing that all the way till the day it happens, with a rain date of October 18th, and some interesting things are going to be happening for our country 250th birthday.

Good morning. Good afternoon. Okay, historic preservation committee meeting is going to be this Thursday at 7:30. Again, please I'll remind you from now till the day it happens, October 17th from noon to 4:00. We're going to have our fifth annual Wolf Family Festival at the Whitehall Borough Arts Center. The rain date is October 22nd at the same time and I've already put in my order, we're going to have a beautiful day on the 17th so don't worry about the rain. Not just this hot, right? Not this hot. It's nice. It's going to be a nice beautiful day. Yeah. [laughter] I put my order in. Um on this past Saturday I attended the fire department's spaghetti dinner. It was a great event and from the FD we are on a back. Apparently this was a good fundraiser them to COVID and then it got shut down because of that. Um it's now being revived, mostly through the delight of the community and the people that were there. Um the food was excellent. The meatballs were homemade, and they were out of this world. And the dessert was from Two Fields Bakery, and it was delicious. Should have started at the dessert table first. Um also in in our uh consent agenda, there was a New Scotland Fire Department who's joining us. I want to uh wish him good luck uh for joining our department. And as you all notice, we just passed a new e-bike ordinance. Uh so I want you to keep a couple dates in mind. Okay? May 30th, go figure, it's Memorial Day weekend, is National E-bike Day. No, not this weekend after. This weekend is Memorial Day weekend. That's right. I'm sorry. My bad. It's early this year. My bad. Okay. Next weekend, the following weekend, is National E-bike Day. It was created to encourage people to ride their e-bikes and to make the switch to opting into electric transportation. E-bikes are a fun, sustainable, economical way for individuals and families to get around, whether it's a quick joyride or an exciting commute to work. They've become increasingly popular in the US in recent years, as we can tell by the streets. Um and they're affordable and eco-friendly transport solutions. Um it encourages people to enjoy the benefits of e-biking, and also celebrates the industry that strives to change the way people move around the world. Um e-bikes have actually been around since 1895. Yes, I did say 1895. Um and that's right, the first US patent for an e-bike was granted in 1895 to Ogden Bolton Jr. who built a battery-powered electric bicycle with a hub motor mounted on the rear wheel. So when somebody out there says, "Yeah, we just invented this," say, "Yeah, okay. I know." The battery's back then? Yeah, yeah. And go figure. Um also, the other day I looked it up. Um now, this has nothing to do with e-bikes, but it's World Bicycle Day, or International Bicycle Day. It's a global celebration on June 3rd every year, and it's supported by United Nations and Andrew promote physical activity and use of bicycles for transportation. Um it also encourages people to use cycling as a greener option and raise awareness about the importance of creating um safer cycling infrastructure in cities. So, thank you.

Okay. The Latell Festival is going to be October 17th, 12 to 4. Grandee is October 18th, same time, 12 to 4. The Historic Preservation Committee meeting is going to be on Thursday, this Thursday at 7:30, right here in the in this building. Um, the World Cup kickoff is going to be on June 13th at the World Cup Village, aka Memorial Field, aka Santo Field. Santory. Yeah, there you go. I almost got that one wrong. Um 10 a.m. for the street renaming. 10 a.m. 10 a.m. at Sherman Avenue to Bessie Way uh for the time being. And um Oh, I got props. Okay. I saw it says show props. I got props. So come out, you can get a bag with coupons and you get a cup, a glass. Now I can't guarantee what's going to be this filled up with, but you can get get a cup. It says Book Cup 2026 celebration. It's actually really cool. Anybody wants to come and take a look at you can come and take a look at that. You also can get this nice nifty handy tote bag. Okay. We have a purchase price yet. Um I believe it's 15 for the bag and it's 10 for the glass. And we're going to be selling the t-shirts now, too. All to benefit Latella. Yes. The t-shirts were in high demand at Hold on. I got props. Hold on. I got props. I got props. Props. All about the props. May have created that logo. [laughter] You don't you don't you don't know and I'm not even telling about that but I choose my own way. Okay. You can do what you want. So parade but the pup parade is 12:30 if your pup you want to bring your pup up the pup parade. Um this afternoon guard it's going to be fantastic time over there. Uh kickoff uh Patrick apparently they got food and all kinds of stuff going on. So it's going to be really cool. Um uh I was at the block party. What a fantastic day for the block party. It was well attended. Town tables were buzzing. Had a lot of stuff going on between the safe streets and historic preservation and the environmental commission and the the World Cup table. It was just fantastic. Um prior to block party, I was at the sharing network 5K run and walk over new. Um if they had won, they had 10,000 people out there for that and or more. It was just fantastic day. Um that brings me to my next point. Uh the global day of running is an international observance. It's celebrated every year on the first Wednesday in June which was June 3rd. Um so this day commemorates the sport of running and encourages people to get up and go for a run. No matter in the distance that is inspired to start uh leading a more active lifestyle. Everyone is invited to join in and all you need pair of running shoes and some water. World Bicycle Day, also known as International Bicycle Day. It's a global celebration and it was also on June 3rd. See where I'm going with this? soccer and everything else. Um, it's supported by United Nations and aims to promote physical activity and use of bicycles for transportation, encourages people to uh choose cycling a greener option and raises awareness about the importance of creating safer cycling infrastructures in cities. Now, once you've done all that, okay, National Chocolate Ice Cream Day landed on June 7th. Okay. Yeah. See, see where I went with that, huh? Okay. And this year it's uh it's different because uh just six weeks prior to June 7th, Chocolate officially reclaimed the throne as America's number one favorite ice cream flavor. If you didn't know that, it knocked vanilla right out of right out of first place at the second. And this is according to the International Dairy Foods Association 2026 National Ice Cream Trend Survey. Now, that's all going to be on the quiz later, so I want you to study for that. Um so, uh that June 7th wasn't just a fun food holiday. It was also a coronation for chocolate ice cream. Um, this goes into my next point here. Back to wellness. Global wellness day is celebrated annually in the second Saturday of June which is June 13th and it promotes the physical, mental and spiritual health. It was found in 2004 and it's a nonprofit social project built around the slogan one day and change your whole life. Um the official theme for global wellness day is joy magenta which focuses on joy as a daily practice to build resilience compassion and well-being rather than just a fleeting emotion and fruit. Oh, I got more props. Hang on. I got more props. Says show props. Okay. Now you want you can revitalize your mind and your body and your spirit and dive into an ancient practice of yoga celebrated worldwide on June 21st. And in my hand, I'm holding the International Yoga Day flyer, which is going to be on June 21st, 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. at the Berkeley Swim Club, 200 Hamilton Avenue. Okay. Start your morning rejuvenating yoga session inspired by traditions. I'm going to try to pronounce these. The yoga modification levels to make it perfect for beginners and seasoned yogas alike. Okay. Um, this is also brought to you by the mayor's wellness committee. Um, if anybody wants it, there's a uh a QR code that you can look on this. If not, reach out to me to sign up and you'll be good to go. Just got to bring your own mat, your own water, and any blocks and prom. It's also on Father's Day, so I expect you fathers all joining us. Yeah. Um, fortunately, I will not be there. I'll be halfway from Lon, New Hampshire back home. Um, so, uh, I also want to congratulate the, uh, Governor Livingston, uh, girls softball team on making it to the sectionals and winning it because on June 13th, it's World Softball Day. Okay. And it's honor sport, world physical activity, sportsmanship, sportsmanship, and gender equality. This date marks the historic 1991 announcement by the International Olympic Committee that women's fast pitch softball would be added to the Olympic Games. So, congratulations to them. Um, and now here's your uh your your PSA for the day. Okay, the summer solstice is uh going to occur on June 20th, 2026 at 10:42 p.m. So, I want you all to get your sunscreen out because that marks the longest day of the year and it starts the summer season. So, at 10:22, you all got to be lathering up for the next day. Get all I got. Thank you very much.

Not to hammer this to death, but getting back quickly to World Bee Day, this year's theme is 'Bee Inspired by Nature to Nourish Us All.' It highlights the critical role bees and other pollinators play in agri-food systems and the health of our planet's ecosystems. I wanted to give another shout-out to World Bee Day. Today also happens to be National Rescue Dog Day. I want to thank everyone involved in rescuing and fostering dogs, like our friend Liza. It is a day to celebrate and promote adoption of dogs from shelters and rescue organizations and to appreciate the many rescue dogs that have already found forever homes. Lastly, I have been getting a lot of calls regarding baby deer, fawns. I want everyone to know that a healthy fawn spends the majority of its day alone. Fawns have no scent and their unique spots help them remain camouflaged. A healthy fawn will remain quiet, still, and curled up until its mother returns. The mother has not abandoned these fawns; she is foraging and gaining strength so she can nourish her babies. Deer know what they are doing. Do not intervene with young wildlife unless you absolutely know the animal needs help. Sadly, today I picked up one that had passed away. I do not know the cause; it looked completely healthy. That happens from time to time, but most of the time the mother comes back. It could take 12 to even 24 hours. These fawns have not been abandoned; the mother's bond is very strong. That is what I wanted to share.

I do not really have anything, but I found the actual compensation and payment procedures for what we just discussed. TNR and SNR turn out to be $150 per cat, which is on the high side. I think I could probably do better; People for Animals spays and neuters for around $120. Since this is a cost to the resident, homeowner, or caregiver of these colonies, I would like to coordinate with them so we can move forward and get these cats spayed and neutered. There are other parts here for operational costs that might come in handy. I was not aware they would euthanize a pet dog if needed. Normally, everyone in Berkeley Heights deeply cares about their dogs and cats, but if someone cannot afford euthanasia through their veterinarian, it appears to be $100 at the Plainfield Area Humane Society. For dead animals picked up from time to time, they charge $35, plus a dollar-per-pound fee. The only change this year is that they added adult animals. They have limited space and have to bring all these animals to one area and collect them until the freezer is filled. I apologize for that last point, but these are good things to know about our animal-control services for Berkeley Heights. Thank you.

I want to reiterate what Manny and Margaret said about our fine people who put themselves in front of danger yesterday. It was pretty rough. I was at Stop & Shop when it started and found it incredibly hard just to get home. There were logs on Snyder Avenue that I had to pull over and push aside. In the end it was a huge team effort from DPW, law enforcement, OEM, and everyone involved, and I appreciate everyone. On a separate note, I was told that the Plainfield Area Humane Society lost everything. I was there Friday. The dogs were found in chest-deep water in their kennels. I was asked whether anyone could provide donations, and if anyone is interested in fostering, that would go a long way. If we can help our neighbors in Plainfield, they had it just as hard. There were two casualties; two women died in Cedar Brook Park. I wanted to make everyone aware of that. Thank you very much.

In consideration of time, I will defer my reports to the next meeting. Thank you.

This past week I had the privilege of attending the September 11 memorial service and the distinct honor of ringing the bell. It was a profoundly somber moment, one that carried the weight of loss, remembrance, and resilience. Taking part in the ceremony was a reminder of the importance of pausing to honor those we lost, supporting those who still carry the grief, and reaffirming our collective commitment to never forget.

I want to recognize today as the second anniversary of the October 7 attack on Israel and for us to remember the innocent lives lost and acknowledge the deep and continuing suffering endured by both Israelis and Palestinians. As a community, I would like to reaffirm our commitment to peace, human dignity, and the hope for a just and lasting resolution to this ongoing conflict. Thank you.

Last week I had the privilege to speak at our YMCA to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. For those who do not know, I am a first-generation Puerto Rican. My parents came to New York from Puerto Rico seeking opportunity and community. They taught me that our heritage lives through family, faith, hard work, and respect. Speaking to everyone meant a lot to me. I shared a little of my roots and the incredible community we built here in Berkeley Heights, my home for nearly 30 years. Hispanic Heritage Month is not just about music or food; it is about recognizing how Latino communities have shaped this country, often quietly but always with pride and resilience. With that pride comes a responsibility to build bridges, support new families, and make sure every culture in Berkeley Heights feels seen and celebrated. Let us show the next generation that you can be proud of where you come from and proud to call Berkeley Heights home. [Additional comment later in the report section:] Regarding storm drains, I have adopted three on my street and am fortunate to have a leaf blower. It is not just cleaning the drains; make sure the street on each side is also clear, because with the first rain it will all come down. I go at least 50 feet on each side and clear debris, leaves, pine needles, whatever. I blow it onto township property near the bridge that was recently repaired on my street. It is a lot of work, but cleaning the street around the drain matters too.

We know the federal government shutdown has affected many of us, perhaps not personally but people we know who are in need. Union County established a program to stock food pantries, and here in the municipal building we have a collection area for donated goods. We should provide donations. They should be nonperishable, unopened, and within expiration dates: dry goods such as rice, beans, and macaroni; pantry staples like peanut butter, jelly, flour, and sugar; snacks such as crackers and granola bars; personal-care and household items such as soap and toothpaste; and baby-care essentials. Walmart has been providing a Thanksgiving meal that can feed a family of ten, including a Butterball turkey of about 14 pounds, fried onions, cream of mushroom soup, Stove Top turkey stuffing, dinner rolls, russet potatoes, cranberries, baby carrots, and more. For those in need who cannot afford a big Thanksgiving meal, consider Walmart's annual meal. It serves ten people at about $4 per person, around $40. To dovetail on VetFest, unfortunately I could not attend, but its main goal was raising funds for critical repairs and maintenance at the VFW post, including roof work, drainage, and parking. I think we raised about $1,000, but you can still donate. Just because VetFest was this past Saturday does not mean we cannot make a small donation to our vets and increase that $1,000. The VFW will also sell blankets saying 'the Foxhole,' and you can rent its hall for events. That is all I have.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. During this time of year I am reminded of the vital threads of community connection and gratitude that weave us together in Berkeley Heights. We have many reasons to give thanks: dedicated volunteers, brave first responders, hardworking township staff, small businesses, and beloved family and friends. Every individual contributes to the warmth and charm of our community and makes it a special place to call home. I want to spotlight the incredible achievement of the Governor Livingston baseball team. This year they became the first public-school baseball team in 44 years to finish a season undefeated while securing back-to-back state championships. They also earned a national ranking of 22. We are immensely proud of these athletes, Coach Roof, and everyone in the GL community who made it possible. I must confess I did not make it to this year's Turkey Trot, not for lack of trying. I intended to register and run, but an unexpected power outage stopped me. A curious squirrel got too close to the transformer box in front of my house and caused the outage. As someone who rescues wildlife, I am used to helping squirrels out of trouble, not having them take out my electricity and my chance to run. Even chaotic moments remind me how connected we are, not just to one another but to the environment and wildlife around us. As we step further into the holiday season, I hope each of you enjoyed a joyful Thanksgiving with those you cherish, whether hosting family, volunteering, catching up with friends, or savoring quiet moments. I thank my colleagues for their invaluable contributions to Berkeley Heights. I am grateful to serve our remarkable community with you and look forward to the coming months.

I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and happy Hanukkah. It is a busy time of year, but hopefully it is also a chance to slow down and spend time with the people who matter most. Tonight is also a chance to say thank you and goodbye to someone who has meant a lot to this council and town, Manny Couto. Over the past few years, Manny has been a constant supporter of our local restaurants and small businesses, always looking for ways to highlight them and bring people together through community events. He understood that supporting local was not just good for business; it was good for the heart of town. Manny brought energy, ideas, and a real passion for Berkeley Heights to everything he worked on. He showed up, cared, and made a difference. That is what you want in a public servant. Manny, thank you for the time you have given, the work you have done, and the friendship along the way. You will be missed, but your impact on our community will remain for a long time.

This past weekend we had the honor of attending the annual awards dinner for our Berkeley Fire Department. It was a privilege to recognize the incredible men and women who selflessly serve our community with professionalism, courage, and unwavering dedication. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to keeping our residents safe, often at great personal sacrifice. Congratulations to all this year's award recipients. Your hard work and service do not go unnoticed. I wish each of them continued success, good health, and safety in the years ahead. [Machado returned at about 01:38:10 after another report.] I apologize; I forgot one thing. This coming Saturday we will have our annual free rabies clinic at the Fire Department, from 10:00 to 1:00. It is first come, first served. We only have 50 vaccinations, but it is free. If you want to avoid spending money at your local vet, I recommend coming to our free rabies clinic this Saturday. Thank you.

I'd like to take a moment to share something that happened earlier today that I think reflects the best of who we are as a community. This afternoon, on what I'll call unofficial business, I visited our wastewater treatment plant. I made a point of letting the staff know how impressed I am with the work they continue to do, especially given the significant challenges and aging infrastructure they manage day in and day out. Their professionalism, dedication, and resilience do not go unnoticed, and I want that clearly on the record. During my visit, the team brought something else to my attention. They noticed a lone goose on the site that was clearly suffering from what appeared to be a serious broken leg. The bird was isolated, vulnerable, and in obvious distress. Rather than ignoring it or assuming someone else would deal with it, the staff paid attention. They cared enough to speak up. I want to specifically acknowledge Director Alan Kennedy, who responded with genuine compassion and reached out to me to help ensure this animal could get the care it needed. That small act matters. We often talk at this table about infrastructure, budgets, timelines, and pressures, and rightly so. But moments like this remind us that leadership and community responsibility also show up in quieter ways. Sometimes it's simply noticing what's in front of us and choosing to act. Despite how busy life gets, despite competing priorities, deadlines, and demands, we all still have the capacity to make a difference. Looking out for local wildlife, paying attention to our surroundings, and ensuring sick or injured animals get the help they need is part of being a responsible and caring community. What stood out to me today wasn't just the response to one injured goose; it was the culture behind it: people doing their jobs well under pressure and still taking the time to care. That speaks volumes about the character of our staff and the values we represent as a municipality. I want to thank the wastewater treatment team for the work they do every day, often behind the scenes, and for demonstrating that compassion and professionalism can and should coexist. I hope this serves as a simple reminder to all of us: meaningful impact doesn't always come from big gestures. Sometimes it starts with paying attention and choosing to help. I was able to rescue the bird and bring the goose to the Raptor Trust this afternoon. I just wanted to point out that these guys are doing a great, amazing job. Thank you.

I just want to piggyback on Two Fields Bake Shop. I had those pumpkin muffins—the chocolate-chip muffins—and they were phenomenal, so I suggest trying those. I want to address the recent sightings; I've been getting a lot of calls about coyotes in our town. More importantly, I want to ease your concerns. First and foremost, sightings of coyotes are not unusual in suburban communities like ours. As development has expanded over the years, wildlife has adapted, and coyotes have become a natural and established part of the New Jersey ecosystem. Coyotes are generally shy and avoid human interaction. In most cases, when one is spotted, it is simply passing through in search of food. Seeing a coyote during daylight hours does not necessarily mean it is sick or aggressive. They are opportunistic animals and may adjust their activity patterns depending on food availability and environmental factors. If you encounter a coyote, remain calm and do not run. Instead, make yourself appear larger, maintain eye contact, and back away slowly. You can wave your arms, clap your hands, or speak in a loud, firm voice. This technique is known as hazing and reinforces their natural instinct to avoid us. It is also important to keep pets on a leash and closely supervise small pets while outdoors, especially during early morning and evening hours when wildlife tends to be most active. During this time of year, coyotes can be more active, more vocal, and more territorial as they seek mates. That increase in activity can naturally lead to more sightings. This makes it even more important to remain vigilant. Avoid leaving pets unattended outdoors and eliminate potential food sources around your home, such as unsecured trash or pet food left outside. I understand that wildlife sightings can be unsettling. However, they also serve as a reminder that we live in a beautiful community where nature is still very much present. Our goal is not eradication, but education, awareness, and responsible coexistence. If you observe aggressive or unusual behavior, or behavior that poses an immediate threat to public safety, please contact our local Police Department. Otherwise, I encourage everyone to stay informed, take reasonable precautions, and remember that in most cases coyotes want nothing to do with us. Thank you for your attention.

I just want to dovetail off Margaret. I want to thank DPW and our first responders for their response to the last storm. I was personally out there shoveling snow for four hours, and I can attest that it really is hard work out there. I appreciate everyone who is an essential worker in that way. Other than that, I see someone in our audience who is responsible for our chicken ordinance, and that is something I'm going to make a priority over the next couple of weeks. Hopefully we'll be introducing a chicken ordinance shortly. Thank you.

I don't really have too much to say, but um for those of you who may not know this about me, um I also serve as an auxiliary police officer for the city of Playfield. And uh this past weekend I had the privilege of uh uh being on duty for the Union County um uh St. Patrick's Day parade. Uh I I served there um uh as part of crowd control and traffic control. Um, it's something I take seriously because it gives me another way to contribute to uh the safety and well-being of our communities. Um, this role is entirely volunteer uh volunteer and it involves assisting with community events such as this uh parade and supporting officers when needed and helping ensure public gatherings remain safe and enjoyable for everyone involved. Uh so yeah, this past Saturday it was it was a lot of fun. Um uh events like these uh really highlight the positive side of community life. Family families out together and local groups participating and people simply enjoying the day. It all it's always rewarding to see that uh level of community spirit and I just want to wish everyone a happy St. Patrick's Day tomorrow. Thank you.

just want to say a few words. A as we welcome the arrival of spring near Berkeley Heights. I wanted to take a moment to reflect on a season that holds deep meaning for so many in our community. The recent observances of Passover at Easter alongside the spring equinox all share a common thread. Renewal and new beginnings. They remind us of light overcoming darkness, of resilience, and of the opportunities to start fresh. Spring is not just a change in season. It's a reawakening. The trees begin to bloom, flowers push through the soil, and wildlife becomes more active as nature comes back to life around us. It's a powerful reminder that we are all connected, not just to each other, but to the environment we share. And as a community, we should enjoy the warmer weather and longer days. I encourage all of us to be mindful of our local wildlife. This is a critical time for many animals as they search for food, build nests, and care for their young. Simple actions like driving cautiously, securing trash, and respecting natural habitats can make a meaningful difference. Just as these holidays call on us to reflect on compassion, renewal, and responsibility, we can carry those values into how we treat one another and the world around us. A strong community is measured not only by how we support our neighbors, but also by how we respect and protect the environment we all depend on. Berkeley Heights is a special place, not just because of its people, but because of the balance we share with nature. Let's continue to move forward together with kindness, fairness, and a shared sense of responsibility. Wishing everyone a season filled with sunshine, renewed energy, and fresh perspectives.

I guess I'm next. Um I just wanted to add to the Arbor Day resolution. Uh just wanted to add a few more things. As both a councilman and a proud resident of Berkeley Heights, I am honored to support this meaningful Arbor Day resolution. Trees are so much more than a part of our landscape. They are truly the backbone of a healthy, vibrant community. They quietly serve us every single day. They clean our air, provide shade on our warmest days, and help regulate temperatures in ways that make our neighborhoods more comfortable and energy efficient. They protect our environment by reducing erosion and supporting the natural balance of our ecosystem. But beyond the environmental benefits, trees are also shape the character of our town. They line our streets, frame our homes, and create the sense of beauty and tranquility that makes it Berkeley Heights such a special place to live. They increase property values, support local business districts, and contribute to the overall quality of life that we all value so deeply. Equally important, trees provide critical habitat for wildlife, reminding us that we share this community not only with one another, but with the natural world around us. In many ways, they connect us to nature, to each other, and to future generations. There is also something deeply personal and even spiritual about trees. They mark the passage of time. They stand as symbols of strength and resilience, and they often become part of our most cherished memories, whether it's tree planted in a backyard, climbed as a child, or simply admired on a quiet walk. As we recognize Arbor Day on April 24th, I encourage all of us to take a moment to appreciate the trees around us and to take action, whether it's planting a new tree, like John said here, or caring for the ones we already have, or supporting preservation efforts. Each of us has a role to play. The decisions we make today will shape the landscape of Berkeley Heights for generations to come. Let's continue to be thoughtful stewards of our environment and ensure that our community remains as beautiful, healthy, and vibrant as it is today. Thank you.

Well, um, just to repeat what John mentioned regarding mental health awareness month, I just want to take a moment to speak to this year's theme, more good days together. This campaign led by organizations like Mental Health America focuses on reducing stigma, encouraging connection, and making sure people know there are resources available when they need them. This is an abstract. Today, my brother would have turned 64. We were what people call Irish twins. We were just 11 months apart. That meant we grew up close in a way that is hard to fully explain. Losing him forced me to confront something I hadn't really understood before, how much mental health matters and how quickly it can become something you have to actively take care of. Grief isn't clean. It doesn't follow a timeline, and for a long time I struggled with what with what that was. Um, what helped wasn't ignoring it or pushing through, it was recognizing that I needed support and being willing to accept it. Here in Berkeley Heights, we pride ourselves on being a strong, connected community, but connection only matters if it's real, if people feel seen, supported, and not alone when things get difficult. Mental health isn't something that happens somewhere else, it's here, in our homes, our schools, our workplaces, and within families like mine. As a community, we have an opportunity and responsibility to make it easier for people to speak up and find support. That can be as simple as checking in on a neighbor, supporting our schools and local programs, or making sure people know where to turn when they need help. If we take this seriously, not just this month, but year-round, we can make Berkeley Heights a place where people don't feel like they have to struggle in silence. That's what more good days together looks like at the local level. Not just awareness, but action, connection, and accountability to each other. If there's one thing I'd like to leave you with, it's this. If you're struggling, don't isolate yourself. And if someone around you might be struggling, don't assume they're just fine. Reach out to them. That's how we get to more good days together. Thank you.

Uh yeah, I just wanted to to uh share an experience that occurred here in the parking lot by the Horse Tree Farm Pet Supplies Plus this weekend. Um one of the things I love most about Heritage Heights is that when something feels wrong, people here don't just walk by, they step up. So, over this past weekend on Saturday, as I was driving through the Stop & Shop parking lot, I noticed five or six young boys. Uh they were waving me down for help. At first, I wasn't exactly sure what was going on, but as I pulled closer, I saw a smoke coming out from the mulch between the parking lots. And sure enough, there were actual flames beginning to spread throughout the mulch. Without hesitation, these young men did the right thing by alerting someone immediately, instead of ignoring. I jumped out and began stomping out the flames while simultaneously calling our fire chief, Jim Hopkins, who informed me that he was already on his way. Within just a few short minutes, our incredible firefighters arrived and quickly dashed out the fire, uh the remaining smoldering and embers also. Everything was done, um uh So, so before the situation really had a chance to be uh to become something much worse. So, thankfully, no one was hurt and the fire was contained quickly, but what stood out to me most was the actions of these young boys. In a world where we often hear negative things about today's youth, these kids remind me that we have a lot to be hopeful for. They were observant, responsible, and cared enough to act, and that's what community is all about. A big thank you to our Berkeley Heights Fire Department and for the rapid response and professionalism. And so, those young men who were speaking up and potentially preventing a much larger incident. Sometimes, it's the small moments that remind us just how fortunate we are to live in a town where people still look out for one another. So, that was pretty exciting. I just have a couple more things. Uh John reminded me that tomorrow is uh National Dog Rescue Day, as well as World Bee Day, which happens to be like one of my things that I hold dear to my heart. So, I just want to um just want to share something about that as well. Bear with me for a second. I just Bear with me. On these hot days, if you put a little bowl of water out, bees really appreciate it. So, um today, we recognize well, tomorrow, we'll be recognizing two very special reminders of compassion, responsibility, and the importance of protecting the lives that share this world with us. National Dog Rescue Day and World Bee Day. Across our communities, countless rescue dogs are given a second chance through the dedication of shelters, foster families, volunteers, and compassionate adopters. Every rescued dog, and I have three of them, has a story and every act of kindness helps transform fear into trust and uncertainty into love. If you ever opened your heart and home to a rescue animal, thank you for making a difference. At the same time, World Bee Day reminds us of the critical role bees play and other pollinators play in sustaining our environment, gardens, farms, and food supply. Though small in size, bees have an enormous impact on the health of our ecosystems. Protecting pollinators by planting native flowers, reducing pesticide use, and preserving natural habitats is something each of us can do to help. Both rescue animals and pollinators teach us an important lesson. Every living creature has value, purpose, and deserves our care and respect. As a community, we may may we continue to strive to be good stewards of our environment and advocates for all animals, great and small. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

Okay. Well, look, I just want to say how uh grateful I am to live in a community that embraces one of the most fundamental principles upon which our nation was founded. And that's the freedom to express ourselves openly, honestly, and without fear of recrimination. It is a freedom that allows each of us to be who we are, to share our beliefs, and to live authentically. So, that being said, today we proudly raise the pride flag in recognition of Pride Month. For many members of the LGBTQ community, that flag represents far more than colors on a banner. It symbolizes acceptance, dignity, equality, and a long journey toward being seen, heard, and respected. It serves as a reminder that every person deserves the opportunity to live their life with pride and without fear of discrimination. This past weekend, I also had the pleasure of attending our annual block party and street fair. It was wonderful to see so many members and friends coming together, sharing conversations, laughter, and community spirit. One of the things I enjoyed the most was meeting new people, individuals and families who each bring their own unique stories, experiences, and perspectives to Berkeley Heights. That is what makes our town so special. We come from different backgrounds. We hold different beliefs. We have different interests, traditions, and life experiences. Yet, despite those differences, we are connected by something greater. a shared commitment to community, kindness, and respect for one another. Our diversity is not something that divides us. It is something that strengthens us. It allows us to learn from one another, grow together, and build a more welcoming and compassionate community for everyone. Thank you to all who help make Berkeley Heights such a wonderful place to call home. Together, we continue to prove that while we may be different in many ways, we are all connected as neighbors, friends, and members of one community. Thanks.

I had the honor of attending the New Jersey Clean Communities event in Woodbridge. It was a great ceremony with lots of posts and some really good ideas from other towns about how they use their Clean Communities funding. I brought something back for Angie because they had to give it to her; it is a little big, but it is on the table. I also brought back a small thing for Liza that includes videos to foster clean communities. The videos can be modified to include our town name. I thought that could be fun. I will talk to the Environmental Commission about some of these ideas and to Liza about whether we can incorporate something. It is too late for this year's Street Fair, but maybe we can do something next year and look for a creative way to use some of the Clean Communities grant money.

I am looking forward to getting the Complete and Green Streets Committee going soon. In the meantime, members of the previous task force have continued work on road and pedestrian safety with a table at the Street Fair, children's activities and giveaways, collecting information from residents, planning future educational events with Avenues in Motion, and a very positive meeting with the school district on programs we can coordinate next year. The Senior Affairs Committee met, but there was really nothing to report. I am not sure about the EDC meeting; it is not until next week and is on the calendar twice. That is it for me.

I want to reiterate what Manny said. It was a really tough night. Unfortunately, I was not in Berkeley Heights, but my husband was actively bailing out the basement for most of the evening. Twin Falls essentially had a river running down it, as did Diamond Hill Road. Cars were detouring off Diamond Hill and then getting stuck on our road as well. We feel the pain of everybody in town, and I am incredibly grateful for our emergency services, police, DPW, and all residents who helped each other. I was honored to meet with a group of planners for our transit-hub planning project earlier, basically before the rainstorm. They toured the downtown study area and talked about a variety of topics. We are excited to see their suggestions for building capacity for pedestrians, bikes, and events around the train station. More on that as the project continues. I missed the Senior Affairs Committee meeting, but I am sure Angie has an update. We are looking forward to getting the Complete and Green Streets Committee stood up in the next month and hope to meet for the first time in September. I will update as we have information.

No reports from me this week.

I am looking forward to starting the Complete and Green Streets Committee with my friend Manny at the other end. We are floating dates among committee members for our first meeting. A reminder to Berkeley Heights: kids are back in school. Please slow down, watch out for pedestrians, and watch out for bikers. If you have a student in the school, please review safety instructions with them. That is it for me.

Susan and I met with Doug Beerbower about grants and possible opportunities this coming year. We will continue looking and working on grants, specifically anything construed as stream or bank cleanup, walking paths, or anything bringing in money to help with flooding. We are also looking for opportunities for first responders, Senior Affairs, Mayor's Wellness, and the usual boards. The new Mayor's Task Force on Flooding will meet before month's end; we are setting the date. The flooding meeting at Town Hall and then by the river with the Army Corps of Engineers and DPW taught me a lot about the true issues. Everybody is frustrated: Army Corps representatives that they cannot do more, NJDEP because of regulations they must follow, and Union County because it hears from us and deals with organizations above it. Mayor Devanney did a fabulous job bringing everybody to the table, and I think we can work together and make real progress. The Complete and Green Streets Committee held its first meeting last night. We set up work groups and will seek volunteers. One top priority is e-bike and e-scooter safety, working with police and schools on education. Communication and community engagement matter; it is not enough simply to send information. Drivers, bikers, pedestrians, e-bikes, e-scooters, and dogs all deserve safety. We have also been working with a planning-services grant around the train station, the transit-hub planning project. We will hold stakeholder meetings and expect recommendations early next year. It is an opportunity for planners from around the state to examine Berkeley Heights and identify improvements in the downtown transit-hub area. That designation could lead to more grant opportunities. My pitch to anyone hearing this: slow down. Watch for pedestrians, dog walkers, and kids on bikes. If you are on a bike, watch for pedestrians, dogs, and cars. Parents, model correct behavior; do not use your phone while driving, because then your child thinks it is acceptable on an e-bike. Walkers go against traffic; wheeled vehicles go with traffic. Let us make roads safe for everyone.

The Complete and Green Streets Committee worked with the Police Department and Avenues in Motion to offer an e-bike seminar, which was incredibly well attended and received fabulous reviews. We will bring more educational programs to town. A number of middle-schoolers attended and spoke about their experiences with drivers while riding bikes and e-bikes, and it was not pretty. It is valuable to hear those experiences, similar to the bicycle riders tonight. Manny provides insight because he has been on the road on a bike. Bike safety is a hot topic. Moving on to flooding, we had the first meeting of the Mayor's Task Force on Flooding last night. It is a mix of residents who experienced flooding and township resources that address problems. They received updates from DPW and engineering about work underway and planned, and we heard from residents. Another meeting is scheduled for early next month. I attended the Green Brook Flood Control Commission update. The commission is pressuring the Army Corps of Engineers to do more in the upper basin, basically Berkeley Heights and Scotch Plains. Nothing is planned now. Army Corps would need more money and planning, and the federal government is not working. I also attended a Scotch Plains flooding town hall with township resources, OEM, police, engineering, zoning, building, Union County, the state, and Congressman Tom Kean Jr.'s office. They listened to residents' pain. Scotch Plains does interesting things that I will discuss with our administration, but their street-leaf pickup creates perpetual problems and many DPW calls to clear storm drains. A plug for the Environmental Commission's Adopt a Drain program: it is easy for residents to join. The flooding task force will partner with existing organizations and programs to build synergy, get more people involved, and create agency and buy-in. That is it.

I want to start with the Complete and Green Streets Committee. They prepared a draft of proposed additions to the Police Department for a potential ordinance relating to e-bikes and bike safety. We will meet again this week, and hopefully the committee will finalize it so it can be discussed openly. I want to thank everyone who put their name out there to run for office. As we know, it is not easy, and we appreciate everyone involved in the civic process. Congratulations to the winners, and thank you to everyone who ran. VetFest was fabulous: food trucks, music, a local band, cars, and an adorable dog parade. A good time was had by all. The Diwali celebration was this past weekend at the YMCA with the Diversity Council. It was lovely, as always, and the food from Neelam was delicious -- not that I go just for the food. The flooding task force will meet again soon, and we will provide an update after the next meeting. That is it for me.

I also attended the League of Municipalities. In addition to informative sessions on flooding, affordable housing, and other municipal topics, it is a fabulous opportunity to meet other elected officials and hear how they get through municipal-government challenges. Before Thanksgiving was the senior luncheon sponsored by Recreation. It was lovely; Cafe Vincotto cooked the food. Thank you to them, Recreation, and all volunteers. The Complete and Green Streets Committee continues meeting diligently. We are working on a township Complete and Green Streets policy, reviewing model policies and finding the right balance for Berkeley Heights. We did extensive research and gave it to the administration and police on elements for an e-bike safety ordinance. E-bikes remain a problem. The active part of our transit-hub planning grant is wrapping up. Friday's meeting includes Complete and Green Streets members, and I invited Senior Affairs members to talk with planners about the train station, Town Hall, Springfield and Sherman avenues down to Snyder -- the area served by mass transit and the center of town. It is not specifically a Transit Village designation. It is planning services from volunteer professional planners and the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority, with New Jersey Transit participating, to enhance the transit area and make transit part of the community hub. The result will be a mini master plan for downtown. Volunteer planners will be at Winter Walk asking people to fill out the survey. The flooding task force met this week. I attended the beginning, then Andrew covered the rest. Finally, the holidays are upon us. Remember people who are not as fortunate or joyful. Food banks still need food. People donated for Thanksgiving, but winter is difficult and food prices keep rising. Give what you can. There is a coat drive in the lobby; people have been incredibly generous. Go through your closets and donate. Cash donations help food banks buy in bulk, and local houses of worship also have giving opportunities. Look into your heart and give what you can to those less well off than we are. Thank you.

Manny, it has been an honor to serve with you. Keep laughing and telling jokes, because it makes it more fun and lightens the mood. Thank you. Winter Walk was fabulous. It was great to participate in the township booth, meet residents and neighbors, and hear their questions about what the township is doing and what is going on around town. Liza's 'Get Connected' handout was welcomed. An amazing number of people looked at it and said they were already connected to everything and followed us on social media. It takes many volunteers and much work. I thank the organizing committee and everyone responsible for making it happen. It was a wonderful event. The flood task force met again last night. We hope it is renewed next year because we got a late start. Residents are dedicated and anxious to make positive progress. That is it for my report.

Okay, I'm up next. The Complete and Green Streets Committee has not yet had its first meeting, but we are planning one. We've had some informal discussions. Next up for us is going to be public communication and education materials about the new state law having to do with e-bikes. We'll be working with the Police Department to make sure we get information out about what is now required and not permitted with e-bikes. Hopefully that will help with the accidents involving e-bikes; it's a problem. Just a quick note about Sherman Avenue: construction is continuing. I know it's hard to tell from the state of the road today what it will be like in the future, but once it's finished, the optimal situation is that it won't be used as much as a cut-through as it is today. It will be much more pedestrian-friendly and safer for walkers in our downtown area. That was the goal, and it's going to be very nice when it's done. I spoke briefly to the engineer about the Springfield Avenue sidewalk project, and they are moving ahead with the design documents. That was wonderful news. Angie and I spoke to an engineer about de-snagging the river and also the four major streams. Those streams are in the areas of Hillcrest, Riverbend, Hampton Drive, and Robbins. They feed into larger bodies of water and continue to be a problem. We're going to work on a federal appropriation and quantify and get estimates on how we can better clear them on an ongoing basis. The Flooding Task Force is not yet set up again, and hopefully we'll have a resolution at the next council meeting. That's it for me.

I want to start with Coffee with a Cop. That's a misnomer because I think half of the force was there. It was awesome seeing people there, just meeting with our police officers in a very relaxed setting. The coffee was wonderful, and a big thank-you to Dunkin' Donuts for hosting them—and for the donuts. The Senior Affairs Committee met. We had a very productive meeting and talked about the AARP Age-Friendly Community Survey, so we'll be rolling that out soon. We also talked about senior programming coming up this year, the lunches, and possibly some new locations for field trips to be coordinated with the Senior Club. If you're listening and haven't been involved in any senior programming so far, either through the township, Recreation Department, library, or Senior Club, you really ought to check out what's going on. [The caption drops words at this transition.] We had an unofficial meeting where we talked about the need for a complete streets policy and reviewed the process for recommending a policy to the council for passage. You'll be hearing more about that soon. We have a Complete and Green Streets meeting early next month. On flooding, I had the pleasure of sitting in on a meeting with the mayor, our engineer, and another engineer about the flooding problems in town. I'll send the Flooding Task Force an update, and after we retool its focus slightly to align with the township's established efforts, we'll bring it back so members can complete their work. One thing we need quickly, where the committee can help, is getting letters of need from residents who have suffered from flooding, as quickly as possible for our application [caption unclear]. That's all for me.

The senior luncheon this past week was fabulous. It was hosted by the Recreation Department; there were great volunteers, the food was wonderful, and about 140 people attended. The attendance was fabulous and everybody had a great time. The Green Brook Flood Control Commission had its call. There are no significant updates related to our part of the project. They said the Army Corps of Engineers is out of money, and at this moment the project is not being recommended for additional funding. The Army Corps and the Green Brook flood group are working on changing that, but that's where it is right now. The Flooding Task Force: we have the resolution on the agenda to stand that back up, and I'll be back in touch with those people. Hopefully by the next meeting I'll have an update. Complete and Green Streets is running along. We had a meeting this past week where we put together the draft of the Complete Streets policy for Berkeley Heights. Once the committee completes the draft, we'll review it with the administration and make sure the administration, council, and mayor are all on board before we introduce it. Complete and Green Streets is also planning a sidewalk audit. We're compiling data on the sidewalk grants we've gotten so far and where they are in town, plus school zones, walking zones, and pedestrian zones associated with the schools, so we can figure out what's missing and prioritize grants and future work. I also want to give a shout-out to local businesses. This past week I needed a thank-you gift for somebody and also needed firewood. That sounds like an odd combination, but there is a place in town where you can get both: Hall's Paint. With the cold weather we had burned through our stock of firewood, and they set us up with delivery the following day, which I thought was phenomenal, and I got my gift. I followed up with lunch at Tino's Pizza with some friends; we had sandwiches, not pizza, and they were astounding. I've had two meetings with committee people in town at Bread and Brew, which is a great addition to downtown. Two Fields Bake Shop came through when I needed a vegan treat for a meeting. They are the nicest people. The cookies—you would not have known they were vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-free—were just plain delicious. I encourage everyone to visit our downtown businesses. Pick one you haven't been to before or someplace you haven't been in a while, because we want them to thrive. We don't want—[caption cuts off as the next speaker is introduced].

I want to start with a big thank-you to DPW and those in the township who kept us safe. They cleared the roads. I know it took time, but we really appreciate everything they do, and also PD, Fire, and the Rescue Squad, who stood by and were ready to help anybody despite the snow on the ground. Regarding Senior Affairs, RSVPs are open for Little Flower Church's senior citizen St. Patrick's Day party, which I understand is quite the event to attend. It is Sunday, March 15th, from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. RSVPs are required. You can go to the library to get the information or check the website. The next senior luncheon will be Friday, April 10th, from 11:30 to 1:30, and it's the Springtime Soiree. That also sounds like a lot of fun. RSVPs are requested. I encourage everybody to check the Berkeley Heights Recreation page and the library to see what's going on. Some amazing activities are offered regularly. A little bird told me there's a Mah Jongg class that started. If you want to learn how to play, it's with Susan—except on the 16th, because the council meeting is moved to a Monday. That's it for me.

um it feels like we were just here so I don't really have that much to report. Um the complete and bring strengths committee, three of us went to Columbia this past week to meet with some students who were um interested in talking about um an ebike or a I'm sorry, not ebike um an off-road bike path or place where they um so they took part in a survey that was done at Columbia Middle School. um they've had about 350 participants of the survey and I've asked the um the teacher as part of that if she can you know clue us into the questions asked on the survey. Some of it went into the downtown area and uh walkability not just you know biking. Um, so the students had a lot of good ideas and they think that one of their next steps is going to be reaching out to the um, county commissioners and perhaps recre uh, parks to see about movement on off-road biking in the county facilities. the students didn't understand that the parks were owned by different people um and that you know one of the places that they currently ride is privately owned um so yeah too um but they're just it's great to see such initiative from the young people in Berkeley Heights they were very poised um great

Um I just I'm not I'm not Okay, sorry. My bad. I don't have a lot because I've been away for the last couple of weeks. Um Welcome back. Nice to be back. Um so, as the weather warms up, there are going to be more and more people out and about on bikes and foot using strollers and scooters. So, please be aware if you're one of those people enjoying our town um not in a car, please be aware of the cars. Please use the sidewalk as appropriate. Please cross at intersections, preferably those with crosswalks. Um those of you in cars, just remember that there are kids out there. Drive like your kid or your grandchild or your, you know, little brother or sister is there on the road with you. So, um please be careful of everybody in our community so that we can all enjoy the weather. Um we'll be having a Complete and Green Streets Committee meeting next month. The Senior Affairs Committee is meeting tomorrow. Um we'll be rolling out the senior living survey within the next short period of time. So, keep an eye out for that. We would like as many residents to fill that out as possible. So, thank you.

Um I'll start with the Senior Affairs Committee. Uh we had a meeting um We had a meeting last week. How about that? It was I was on a Okay, so the senior the senior information fair is this weekend on Saturday from 11:00 to 2:00 here at Town Hall and there's a ton of resources coming. So please stop by Town Hall and find out what's going on. The Senior Affairs Committee is along with the AARP I'm sorry. Age-Friendly Community Initiative is launching our survey which is you know, basically growing older living better in Berkeley Heights. So we'll have hard copies of the survey at the information fair for people to fill in so [laughter] We'll also have some will have some portable devices that people can use to fill it on online available to do. So please come to the senior information fair. Complete and Green Streets is looking forward to having a meeting next month. We had a meeting of the flooding task force to talk about how we can how residents can assist the Township to get the word out about flooding and the initiatives that are going on in town. We helped Liza and our grant writer with a pedestrian safety grant that addresses pedestrian safety including um enforcement on Springfield Avenue between Plainfield and Summit. So hopefully we'll hear about that in a few weeks and we're really hopeful that we get that grant. That's it for me.

Um they I'm not sure what was happening there. So, hopefully there's no more to report. I do want to um I think it was September. Um senior Right, what was that? That was before the last council meeting that we talked about in the last meeting. Okay, got it. Um so, um I do want to make um a statement about e-bikes. Um we're going to do e-bike day that's coming up. Um We also have a reminder for parents that the e-bikes um the bikes are no longer supportive for middle schoolers. So, parents need to be well aware of that. Um But, the city will start enforcement now that the day ordinance has passed. Um so, parents, please be aware of what your child is riding. Um and please ride safely. Those of us that are driving, please watch out for bicycles wherever you are, whether it's you know, an individual rider or a group of riders. It doesn't matter what street. They are vehicles. They You should pass them with care just as you would any other vehicle. Pedestrians, please yield to pedestrians. We had a pretty horrific accident, and my prayers are with the families involved. Um But, again, we just need to be aware of um what's out there on the road, and that's pedestrians being aware of cars and bikes, and bikes being aware of cars and pedestrians, and cars being aware of everything. Mark, can you remind everyone the age limit for e-bike riders, please? 15. 15. 15. 15. Yeah. And the e- They e-motos are not the basically the dirt bikes or you know, or I don't even know what those other called. We see them around town periodically. Those are not permitted on the roads at all. not street legal. And if you have a vehicle that goes faster, which is called now a motorized bicycle, um it goes up to 28 miles an hour, and it's essentially a mo- what we used to call mopeds, like a Vespa, but they don't have those names anymore and they have a different look. Those you have to have a license to ride. So, please be safe out there. I kind of want to kin it to what happened when we had the uh horses and then the horseless carriages came along. We still had to learn to work together. So, we have to learn to work together in this new world, hopefully.

Um, okay. So, a community reminder that the ebike law in the state of New Jersey and for the bikes is now in effect. Um, people under the age of 15 years old should not be using ebikes. The police department will begin their um enforcement of these laws. We ask that all drivers watch out for bicyclists regardless of what vehicle they're riding. And all parents and children riding bicycles need to remind their children to watch out for motorists and pedestrians. So we need to share the road in a safe and responsible manner. Um so the complete and green streets committee has been working with community policing Sergeant Fagan um on some upcoming educational programs um relating to ebikes and other kinds of safety programs. So information will be coming out on that when we have it um later this summer also about ebikes later this summer um registration and licensing will be required. We don't have the details of that yet from um the state of New Jersey. So that's not a Heights thing. That's a state of New Jersey thing. So as soon as we get information, we'll put it out there that assistance. Um I believe that there's a senior lunchon this Friday. Yes. The 12th. 12th. Yes. um here at town hall. If you're interested in attending um the recreation department ask that you RSVP with them. So you can send a message or just swing by downstairs. There's definitely and that's what I have. Oh, and the street fair was fabulous. Absolutely fabulous. Awesome. Very good. And Margaret, does that age restriction apply to scooters? Scooters. scooters. Does the age restriction apply to scooters or is it just ebikes? scooter wheel inline scooters, right? But there are but there are high-speed uh am I right or there are higher speed those are different because they go faster, right? But so I'm not sure if that applies that age restriction would apply to the high-speed two-wheel scooter. I think those are the ones you're referring to are essentially motorcycles. Yeah, it depends. So there are like the lime scooters. There's a there's a few brands of those that actually go faster than the low speed. And I don't remember Steve, do you remember where those fit into the regulations? It is what the limit what's defined in law is less low speed electric scooter and that's up to 19 miles an hour. So anything beyond that is not that vehicle you can use but yeah but they the requirements have not changed with the new law on those screws. We are working with um Sergeant Pas on information sheet that will have easy to understand information about this and what we just talked about one of them we had in our booth and it's going to be put on the website. It's going to be burkhead.govide. It's not up yet because I'm waiting for the police to give me the information. I'm gonna go crazy if they do it this week. So maybe next week it'll be up. They tried to do it this week for the next through Saturday.