Things to Know in Union City This Week: April 15-21

Alvarado Middle School Naming Vote

On Tuesday, the New Haven Board of Education will vote on whether it will rename Alvarado Middle School after Filipino labor leaders Larry Itliong and Philip Vera Cruz. If named in their honor, it would be the first school in the country named after Filipino Americans. But the matter has divided the community, sparking heavy debate and rallies both for and against the name change.

According to the school district's meeting agenda, the Facility Names Committee, comprised of seven community members, has advanced two names to be considered for the school: Alvarado Middle School and Itliong-Veracruz Middle School.

The meeting will be held at 7:30 p.m. at the district office at 34200 Alvarado-Niles Rd.

Solidarity Rally for Itliong-Veracruz Name Change

At 6 p.m. Tuesday, supporters of the name change will converge at the James Logan High School parking lot prior to the board meeting. Organizers are asking supporters to bring flags, signs and shirts promoting diversity.

Friends of the Union City Library One Day Booksale

Books, CDs and DVDs for people of all ages will be available at bargain prices at the Union City Library on Saturday. The one-day event will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Logan Princess Club to Host Prom Dress Drive at NewPark Mall

Students from James Logan High School will hold a prom dress drive at NewPark Mall on Saturday and Sunday. Donations of prom dresses and accessories are wanted and will be collected from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The dress drive will be held on the lower level of NewPark Mall, 2085 NewPark Mall, near JC Penney.