UC Horizon: Upcoming Municipal Elections | Scam Alert | Youth Mental Health First Aid

Union County Horizon

Sept. 29, 2023

Community News

Municipal Elections are Only Six Weeks Away | Nov. 7, 2023

election municipal candidate

View the candidates running in Union County's 14 municipal elections on the Board of Elections website.

Beware of Tax Scam

Scam Alert

Union County Tax Administration is alerting residents of a new scam letter that some county residents recently received.

The scam threatens seizure of property and garnishment of bank accounts and income because of a tax debt that has not been paid. Union County Tax Administration does not collect federal taxes. 

Click here to view the fraudulent document that a Union County resident shared with Tax Administration. 

Nationwide Emergency Alert Test on Oct. 4, 2023

FEMA, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System for radios and televisions and nationwide test of the Wireless Emergency Alerts to all consumer cell phones at approximately 2:20 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Oct. 4. The purpose of the Oct. 4 test is to ensure that the systems continue to be effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level. Click here for more information about the nationwide test.

Community Events

Strawberry Garden

Successful Gardener Series

Growing Strawberries in the Home Garden

Join the Master Gardeners for a free Successful Gardener program offered the first Thursday of each month. On Thursday, Oct. 5, learn techniques for growing strawberries in your home garden and gain hands-on experience with a Planting Strawberries Workshop on Saturday, Oct. 7.

You must register in advance to attend. 

Inaugural Community Shelter Clay Shoot Competition

The 2023 Community Shelter Clay Shoot Competition is set for Wednesday, Nov. 1, at Meadow Wood Farms. This event features a 13-station, half-day shoot with a shotgun start. The entry includes lunch, range fees, shells, sporting clays, firearm rental, safety equipment and course refreshments. Registration will be available until all slots are filled or by Monday, Oct. 30.

Rabies Clinic Reminder

Union County will host a low-cost Rabies Vaccine Clinic at Union County Human Services, 2330 Concord Ave., Monroe, on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

  • Vaccinations are $10, cash only.
  • Microchips will be available for a suggested $20 donation.

Save the Date: The next rabies clinic is Saturday, Oct. 28, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Healthy Living

Take Precautions Against West Nile Virus

Late summer and early fall are the most common time to become infected with mosquito-borne diseases  in North Carolina, like West Nile Virus. Most people do not develop any symptoms, but one in five people may develop fever, body aches, vomiting, or a rash.

Avoid getting bitten by taking the following precautions:

  • Use a mosquito repellent that contains DEET.
  • Install or repair screens to keep mosquitos outside.
  • Dump standing water from places like flower pots, gutters and buckets.

September is Sickle Cell Awareness Month

Sickle cell disease changes the way red blood cells carry oxygen in our body. The North Carolina Sickle Cell Syndrome Program by NCDHHS helps people with this disease live healthier lives and spread awareness about it.

To learn more about testing, doctor recommendations, teaching, and counseling about the trait, click here.

Help for People Needing Support with Substance Use

September marks National Recovery Month, an opportunity to celebrate any changes towards wellness and a healthier, happier life. Three out of 10 people in the United States struggle with mental health, drugs or alcohol.

If you or someone you know needs help, call Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Youth Mental Health First Aid

If you interact with young individuals, as a teacher, coach, faith leader, neighbor, etc., this in-person event is for you.

Join Mental Health First Aid on Friday, Oct. 20, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for a session designed to prepare you to support young people on mental health and substance-use topics they may face. 

Reserve a spot on Eventbrite, and contact Belle Walker or Stephanie Wilson for questions.