Union County News

Linden Public Schools held a four-day Administrative Retreat August 10-13 with 50 administrators. Led by Superintendent Dr. Atiya Y Perkins, the event combined '90s-themed fun with 29 hours of programming on achievement, attendance, safety, and other priorities under the theme "Back to the Basics with a Future-Focused Vision."

Linden Fire Department promotes Nicholas Tome, Nicholas Moreno, Christian Usman after completing probationary periods. Promotional ceremony August 10, 2026.

Linden Public Schools expands chronic absenteeism partnership with Concentric Educational Solutions. Goal: reduce chronic absenteeism 35% by June 2030.

Three Linden High School Class of 2026 graduates earn Navy ROTC scholarships. Natasha Lopez, David Montesdeoca, Daniel Quiceno complete naval training.

New Jersey social media protection law signed. Kids Code Act limits data collection, advertising to minors. Affects Union County families and schools.

Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers opens Union County's first location in Linden at 801 W Edgar Road on Monday, August 17. Louisiana-based chain expands.

Sprouts Early Education Academy opens Pre-K 3 campus in Linden at St. George's Plaza. 60 seats filled before opening. Classes begin September 2.

Linden Board of Education regular meeting Thursday, August 20, 2026 at 6 pm. In-person at School No. 1 Gymnasium. WebEx remote access available.

Linden's Fall Festival, 'The Many Flavors of Linden,' runs September 26 at City Hall, 1–9 PM, merging Unity Day, the Polish Festival, and the Latin Festival.

Historic Linden dining staple III Amici Ristorante on West Elizabeth Avenue closes its doors after 36 years following the retirement of owner Giovanni Lavorato.

Linden Public Schools held its annual Administrative Retreat from August 10-13, 2026, with about 50 administrators attending at School No. 4. Led by Superintendent Dr. Atiya Y Perkins, the event focused on four district-wide goals for 2026-27: student achievement, safety and security, climate and culture, and community engagement.

Joanne Rajoppi, Union County Clerk for 30+ years and pioneer for women in government, has died at 78. She was known for innovation and election integrity work.

Linden High School Athletic Hall of Fame nominations open for Class of 2027. Submit by Oct. 1, 2026. Nominate athletes, coaches, and contributors.

Linden Backpack Giveaway August 21, 5:00–7:00 PM at School #1. Mayor Armstead hosts community event with free backpacks for students.

Seven candidates filed for three Linden Board of Education seats. Election November 3, 2026. Two slates and one independent competing.

Union County Board of Commissioners lowered the project labor agreement threshold from $5 million to $3 million under state law, affecting construction standards on more county projects.

Linden Community Night Out on August 4 from 5-8 p.m. at City Hall. Free food, giveaways, family activities, and concert by The Six Sharp Band.

Linden Public Library features July 27-August 1 programs with kids' activities, teen tech workshops, yoga classes, classic films, and volunteer opportunities.

Soehl Middle School celebrated 233 graduates on June 22 in Linden, with co-valedictorians Omar Abdallah and Brandy Nguyen leading the class forward.