Union County News

Valairco Heating and Cooling's Valairco Cares initiative is seeking community nominations for a $500 grant to a local nonprofit. The program has awarded 32 grants since 2018, with voting ending July 31. Organizations with the most nominations will be selected.

Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School is implementing a full-day cell phone ban for the 2026-27 school year, mandated by NJ Department of Education. Learn the new policy and discipline guidelines.

Free outdoor jazz concert by Florian Schantz Jazz Combo on August 7 at Willow Grove Presbyterian Church in Scotch Plains. Features music from Wicked, Lion King, Frozen, and more. Free ice cream.

Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School earned Green Flag certification from the National Wildlife Federation's Eco-Schools program in its first year of participation, an uncommon achievement. Students completed nine environmental initiatives including an endangered species awareness campaign, a pollinator garden, and released 89 trout fingerlings.

Union Catholic's Paige Sheppard, 16, finished ninth at the U.S. Outdoor Track and Field Championships women's 800-meter final with a time of 2:02.78.

Scotch Plains Recreation's Memory Lane Cabaret invites seniors 55+ to sing Broadway standards on Wednesdays, September 9 through October 28. Cost $40 (residents), $50 (non-residents).

Scotch Plains Township has launched a rain garden initiative to combat flooding and improve water quality. The program includes public workshops, municipal demonstrations, and technical assistance for residents interested in creating rain gardens on their properties.

Four Scotch Plains students made Tufts University's Dean's List for Spring 2026. Students needed 3.4+ GPA. Marin Brace graduated Summa Cum Laude in May. (152 characters)

Union County's free self-defense program for women 18-23 heading to college. Final class session July 29 at John H. Stamler Police Academy in Scotch Plains.

The Scotch Plains Police Department alerts residents to a significant increase in fraud cases, with criminals posing as government agencies, law enforcement, banks, and utilities. Residents are advised never to provide personal or financial information to unsolicited callers and to verify requests directly with organizations.

The Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA swim team competed at the EEX Summer Sizzle Meet held June 26–28 at Rutgers University in Piscataway, earning numerous top finishes and YMCA Long Course National qualifying times across all age groups.

Scotch Plains-Fanwood MLK Day of Service Planning Committee seeks volunteers for 2027 event. Help organize one of the region's largest annual volunteer initiatives.

Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Scotch Plains offers an annual Summer Academy faith formation program for children and families to deepen their faith.

Deputy Mayor Matt Adams reflects on Scotch Plains' response to July 3 microburst storm, honoring first responders and community resilience after the disaster.

Scotch Plains announces extended grace period for third quarter property taxes due August 1st. Final 2026 tax rate from Union County pending. Online payment available.

Scotch Plains designates July as Park and Recreation Month, recognizing public spaces as vital to community health, youth development, and economic growth.

Dr. Marla James of Union Catholic has published Documented Learning, a guide for K-12 educators navigating AI while maintaining authentic student learning.

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission mobile unit coming to Scotch Plains August 7. Appointments open July 14 at telegov.njportal.com/njmvcmobileunit.

Shady Rest celebrates its 105th anniversary with a house party fundraiser July 31 in Scotch Plains. Live music by DJ Esmooth, BYOB, bring your own food.