Happy Monday, UC neighbors. This week we’re putting the spotlight on Union. Not the version you speed through on Route 22, but the one with layers: Kean’s energy, Morris Ave rhythms, and a surprising amount of art and history packed into a town most people treat like a pass-through.

Also, a major milestone: The UC Scoop turns 1 this month. A year of chasing down community events, restaurant and cafe openings, and the little moments that make Union County feel like a real community instead of a collection of zip codes. If you’ve been reading since the beginning, thank you. If you joined last week, welcome. Either way, you’re in the right place.

To mark the month, we’re keeping it simple: one town, a few good reasons to get out, and a reminder that January is actually a great time to try somewhere new because nothing is crowded and everyone has time to be human. If you live in Union, hit reply and tell me one place we should stop calling “underrated” and just admit is excellent.