UC Horizon: Approaching Voter Registration Deadline | Become a Reading Buddy | Holiday Craft Show

Union County Horizon

Oct. 6, 2023

Community News

Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for Nov. 7 Municipal Elections 

election municipal candidate

The deadline to register to vote and update your address for the Nov. 7, 2023, municipal elections is Friday, October 13.

Under state law, the regular voter registration deadline is 25 days before an election. If you are seeking to register to vote in time for the municipal elections, you can contact the Union County Board of Elections to determine whether your residential address is within the incorporated boundaries of a municipality. Click here for more information.

Union County Public Schools Is Looking For Reading Buddies

Reading Buddy, become a first or second-grade reading buddy for 30 minutes a week

Become a Read With U Volunteer

UCPS is seeking volunteers who can spare 30 minutes a week to read with students in person. Your time, commitment and support can help students develop a love for reading and boost their confidence. 

To get started, complete a volunteer application onlineClick here to view more information, including participating schools

All Union County Libraries Closed Monday, Oct. 9 for Staff Development Day

No fines or fees are charged when the library is closed. Continue to read, watch, or listen to our digital and streaming content, available 24/7.

Don't forget to participate in this month's Kindness Project by donating new or gently used jackets at any library location. 

Cane Creek Park New Hours Beginning Oct. 9

Cane Creek Park

Starting Oct. 9, park hours at Cane Creek Park will change to 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. daily.

Pedal boats and miniature golf are still available on weekends from noon to 5 p.m.

Christmas Bureau Now Accepting Applications

Christmas Bureau

Union County Christmas Bureau is now accepting  applications from families in need until Nov. 17. If you are seeking assistance with gifts and food this holiday season, we can help.

View eligibility for the program and how to apply.

Save the Date

Union County Government Career Fair

Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2-6 p.m.

Grow your future with Union County Government! Learn about opportunities to serve your community in a job that provides exceptional benefits at our annual Career Fair on Wednesday, Nov. 1, from 2-6 p.m., at the Union County Agricultural Center, 3230-D Presson Rd., Monroe.

Click here to view current open positions.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event

Saturday, Nov. 18, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Paint containers

Union County residents can drop off limited quantities of household hazardous materials for free disposal on Saturday, Nov. 18, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Shiloh Valley Elementary School, 5210 Rogers Rd., Monroe. You can also bring up to five boxes of documents for shredding and any expired or unneeded medications for collection.

The event is hosted by Union County Solid Waste and co-sponsored by the City of Monroe Solid Waste Department, Union County Public Schools, and the Union County Sheriff's Office. Visit our website for a list of accepted materials.

Community Events

Hits After Six

Indian Trail Parks and Recreation is hosting a live music event featuring The Castaways! Head out to Chestnut Square Park on Thursday, Oct. 12, from 6-9 p.m. for the concert, food trucks and kids activities! Click here for more information.

Holiday Craft Show at Monroe Aquatics and Fitness Center

Bring your friends and get a jump on your holiday gift giving! This Holiday Craft Show & Boutique Market at Monroe Aquatics and Fitness Center on Saturday, Oct. 7, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. features some of the Carolinas' most gifted craftsmen and clothing & gift boutiques. 

More than 120 vendors will offer unique gift ideas like handmade jewelry, pottery, baked goods, hand-poured candles, holiday decor, clothing, and lots more!

75th Anniversary Celebration for Wingate VFD

The Wingate Volunteer Fire Department is planning an open house Saturday, Oct. 7, from noon until 3 p.m. to celebrate 75 years of serving the community. Help honor those who have served and continue to serve the Wingate community.

Healthy Living

Fire Prevention Week is Oct. 8-14, 2023

Did you know cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries?

The good news is you can prevent most cooking fires and burns. Be on alert when cooking and stay in the kitchen when grilling, broiling, frying, or boiling food. Keep anything that can catch fire away from your stovetop and consider having a "kid free zone" at least three feet around your stove.

Click here for more cooking and fire safety tips to keep your family safe.

Reduce Baby's Risk of Sleep-Related Infant Deaths

October is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Awareness Month which aims to educate parents about a safe sleep environment.

Here are recommendations to keep your baby safe while they sleep: 

  • Put your baby on their back for all naps and at night.
  • Use a firm and flat sleep surface.
  • Instead of bed sharing, room share with your baby.
  • Keep soft objects and loose bedding out of your baby's sleep area.
  • Visit safesleepnc.org for more ways to help your baby safe.