📋 Producer's NotesThe ramp closure item (Interstate 295 southbound Exit 69B to Route 206) lists a start date of June 4th, which predates this issue's July 23rd publication. It appears unchanged/recurring content from the source newsletter. Included as published; recommend verifying current status before airing if closure has since resolved.The Mobile Food Pantry item lists four Monday dates (July 6, 13, 20, 27); the first three had already passed as of this newsletter's July 23rd date. Only July 27th is noted as upcoming in the script.The Police Department's community partnership item originally read "Yesterday" with no absolute date given. The script substitutes "recently" for clarity, since the newsletter provides no specific date.Several general/boilerplate resource links (Mercer County Food Finder, NJ Disability Information Hub, Mercer County Cooling Centers, MCLS Community Events, full ERMA eligibility criteria) were condensed into brief mentions in the audio script to preserve runtime. Full details are preserved below.The Spring & Summer Recreation Programs promo and the food safety infographic contained no newsletter-specific dates or new details beyond general encouragement/tips, so they were summarized briefly rather than read in full. 🏘️ Township AnnouncementsItemDateDetailsBulk Waste Collection | Friday, July 31 | Three items max, 50 lbs. each; call Public Works to schedule I-295 Ramp Closure | Beginning June 4, through August | Exit 69B to Route 206 southbound closed for noise barrier project Mailing Address Update | Ongoing | P.O. Box 6006 discontinued; mail correspondence to Township of Lawrence, 2207 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrence Township, NJ 08648Tax Collector: Third quarter 2026 tax amounts are posted online. Bills mail end of July; last day to pay without penalty is Tuesday, September 8 (close of business). Late payments accrue interest back to August 1. 📞 609-844-7041Public Works Brush Pile Update: Temporary 25-foot brush pile length permitted for July collections only. Standard rules on branch size, height, and placement still apply. 📞 609-587-1894 🎨 Recreation & SeniorsSpring & Summer Recreation Programs – ongoing registration; check weekly for updates. [Learn more]Summer Art Camp, Session 2 – August 3–7, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM, Lawrence Nature Center, grades 3–8. [Register]Freestyle Craft Club – Mondays, 1:00 PM, Art Room, Lawrence Senior Center (30 East Darrah Lane). Call 609-844-7048 to sign up.Senior Center July Calendar & Senior Connect – available via the Township website. 📞 609-844-7048 🏥 Health DepartmentFood Safety Tips: Wash hands often, cook to safe temperatures, use separate equipment for raw/cooked foods, keep kitchens clean, and discard spoiled or expired food.Mobile Food Pantry (Arm In Arm): Mondays, 2:00–4:00 PM, Lawrence Headquarters Branch (2751 Brunswick Pike). Remaining July date: July 27. 📞 609-882-9246Nursing Services: Vaccinations, blood pressure monitoring, and community resource assistance for homebound residents in designated rural areas. 📞 609-844-7094Dog Licensing: Animal Control contacting 500+ delinquent license holders; summonses possible for unlicensed dogs. $9 late fee in effect; rabies vaccinations must be valid through November 2026.Free COVID-19 Test Kits: Available while supplies last, Municipal Building North Entrance, 2207 Lawrenceville Road, Mon–Fri, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM. 📞 609-844-7089 👮 Police DepartmentCommunity Partnership: Chief Kevin Reading and Mental Health/Substance Use Coordinator Elwood Dasher recently met with You Are Accountable, a virtual behavioral health provider for substance use and addiction support.National Night Out – Tuesday, August 4, 5:30–8:00 PM, in front of Town Hall (2207 Lawrence Road). Music, food, activities, emergency vehicle displays, and police resource demos.Now Hiring: Per Diem Public Safety Telecommunicators (dispatchers), $25.91/hr, flexible hours. Email resumes to LawrencePolice@LawrenceTwp.com. 📅 Boards & Committees (this week)CommitteeDateTimeShade Tree Advisory Committee | Monday, July 27 | 7:00 PM Lawrence Alcohol and Drug Alliance Meeting | Tuesday, July 28 | 9:00 AM Environmental Resources & Green Advisory Committee | Tuesday, July 28 | 7:00 PMSchedule subject to change; check the Township website for cancellations. 📞 Municipal Clerk, 609-844-7001 🌳 Community Resources & EventsMercer County Hazard Mitigation Plan Workshop – Monday, July 27, 6:00–7:00 PM, Fire Service Training Center (350 Lawrence Station Road). Can't attend? Take the survey.Family Nights at the Nature Center (Lawrence Environmental Education Foundation) – 5:30–7:00 PM, 481 Drexel Avenue. This week: July 29, Rocks and Gems with Tom Duffy. Also upcoming: August 5, Creek Walk and Talk with The Watershed Institute.Mercer County Board of Elections Recruitment Day – Thursday, August 20, 5:00 PM, Mercer County Office Park, 1440 Parkside Ave, Ewing.Lawrence Hopewell Trail – Collecting used children's bikes for the free Spokes & Skills youth cycling program with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Mercer County.Emergency Rescue Mortgage Assistance (ERMA): Financial assistance for eligible homeowners facing COVID-related hardship. Eligibility includes owning/occupying a 1–4 unit primary residence, meeting income limits, and being current on mortgage/taxes as of January 2020. Apply at njhousing.gov or call 1-855-647-7700.Mercer County Cooling Centers: Updated during heat waves; scan QR code on flyer or visit county site for locations.Mercer County Food Finder: Connects residents to 100+ food pantries and grab-n-go meal options.MCLS Community Events: Ongoing calendar of Lawrence Branch library events.NJ Disability Information Hub: New statewide resource for programs and services for people with disabilities and caregivers.Crisis Support: Call or text 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor for suicide prevention or mental health/substance use support. 🤝 Volunteer OpportunitiesLawrence Historical SocietyMeals on WheelsLawrence Township Community Foundation📍 Township of Lawrence, 2207 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrence Township, NJ 08648 🌐 [Township Website] | 📘 Facebook | 📸 Instagram | ▶️ YouTube

SHOW NOTESProducer's NotesThe following items were omitted from the audio script and are noted here for the record.Omitted: no body text. Operation Blue Angel (Latest in Lawrence, Police Department section) appeared as a heading and registration link only, with no descriptive prose. Omitted per project policy.Omitted: visual only. The Safe Travels / Healthy Travel Tips section (Latest in Lawrence, Health Department) was a New Jersey Department of Health infographic with no accompanying prose. The Lawrence High School Class of 2026 college destination list was a visual graphic with no body text.Omitted: time-expired. The District Calendar in the Lawrence QuickNews listed four entries all dated June 24, 2026, the newsletter's own send date.Omitted for length (included in show notes below where actionable): Mercer County Community College Fall 2026 Registration, Mercer 250 website, Mercer County Food Finder, New Jersey Disability Information Hub, Lawrence Pride Fest recap, Lawrence Middle School House Cup recap, Lawrence High School Culture Fest recap, Lawrence High School Tangent magazine, ManaBadi Telugu Language Program, Kids Art Camp K-6, Animal Cartoon Drawing Workshop (enrollment details image-only), 4-H Health Body Mind Club, Camp Rider (dates image-only in source), Lawrence Neighborhood Center RFP.🎆 Township EventsLawrence Township Fireworks — July 1 Join the township in celebrating America's 250th anniversary of independence at Rider University. Gates open at 6:00 PM. Jake's Rockin Country Band plays 7:00–9:30 PM. Fireworks at 9:30 PM. Activities include food trucks, a Bubble Guy performance (7:00–8:00 PM), a Cub Scouts Pack 206 kids coloring table, and glow sticks available for purchase to support the Fireworks Fund. Special appearance by Ben Franklin (7:00–9:00 PM), sponsored by the Lawrence Historical Society. Rain date: July 2.Patriotic Concert in the Park — July 9 The Lawrence Community Concert Band performs a free concert celebrating America's 250th.DetailInfoDate | Thursday, July 9 Time | 7:00 PM Location | Lawrence Township Veterans Park, 100 Oaklyn Terrace Admission | Free Bonus | Free hot dogs and water while supplies last🏛️ Municipal NewsMunicipal Offices Closed — July 3 All Lawrence Township Municipal Offices will be closed Friday, July 3, in observance of Independence Day.Mailing Address Update P.O. Box 6006 is being discontinued. Update all correspondence and scheduled payments to:Township of Lawrence  2207 Lawrenceville Road  Lawrence Township, NJ 08648Lawrence Neighborhood Center — Request for Proposals At its June 16 meeting, the Township Council passed Resolution 217-26, authorizing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the lease of the Lawrence Neighborhood Center, located on Eggert Crossing Road.Council Meeting — Area in Need of Redevelopment (July 21) The Township Council will consider whether the property at 3641 Lawrence Road should be designated an Area in Need of Redevelopment.DetailInfoDate | Monday, July 21 Time | 6:00 PM Location | Lawrence Township Municipal Building Open to residents | YesI-295 Ramp Closure The I-295 southbound ramp at Exit 69B to Route 206 southbound is closed and detoured through August as part of a noise barrier installation project. The right lane on I-295 southbound near Exit 69B is also affected.🗓️ Boards & CommitteesCommitteeDateTimeNotesTrails, Open Space & Stewardship Advisory Committee | Wednesday, July 1 | 7:30 PM | Recreation Advisory Committee | Thursday, July 2 | 6:30 PM | Canceled Planning Board | Monday, July 6 | 7:00 PM |  Township Council | Monday, July 21 | 6:00 PM | Area in Need of Redevelopment hearingMeeting schedules are subject to change. Contact the Municipal Clerk at (609) 844-7001 or check the township website for locations, agendas, and updates.🏊 RecreationSummer Pool Membership Memberships available for individuals, families, and seniors.DetailInfoLocation | Lawrence High School, 2525 Princeton Pike Season | June 29 – August 15 Mon–Fri Lap Swim | 9:00 AM – 11:45 AM Mon–Fri Open Swim | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Saturday | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Sunday & Holidays | Closed Register | (609) 844-7064Spring & Summer Recreation Programs The Recreation Department offers a variety of programs for youth and adults. Follow the Recreation Department on Facebook for weekly updates. Recreation Department: (609) 844-7067👴 Senior ProgramsSenior Discount Day at the Trenton Farmers Market Every third Thursday, May through August, at 960 Spruce St, Lawrence Township, NJ 08648.Participating vendors offering a 10% discount to seniors include Terhune Orchards, Pulaski Meats, Ray's Market Cafe, Rose's Boutique LLC, Tea-for-All, Pineland Farms, Tom's Collectibles, Petit Baguette Boulangerie, Sea92 Seamoss, and Corner-Copia (when stock is available).Market Street Taqueria and Witherspoon Meats offer a 15% discount to seniors and veterans year-round. Calvin's General Store offers rotating special deals.For questions or to arrange a ride: (609) 844-7048 | Lawrence Senior Center, 30 E. Darrah Lane, Lawrence, NJSenior Center Activities Call the Lawrence Senior Center at (609) 844-7048 to register for programs and receive the monthly calendar.🐕 Health & Animal ServicesDog Licensing Reminder Animal Control is contacting more than 500 dog owners with delinquent licenses. Summonses may be issued beginning this month. A $9 late fee is in effect, and rabies vaccinations must be valid through November 2026. Contact the Township Clerk's Office with questions.Free COVID-19 Test Kits At-home COVID-19 test kits provided by Mercer County are available at the Lawrence Health Department while supplies last. Health Department: (609) 844-7089🚔 Police DepartmentGo Team New Jersey! Officers Campbell and Cruz escorted Team New Jersey to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis. Lawrence Township wishes the athletes the very best of luck. Follow the Lawrence Township Police Department on LinkedIn for updates.💰 Community ResourcesEmergency Rescue Mortgage Assistance (ERMA) The ERMA program provides financial assistance to eligible homeowners who experienced a significant decrease in income or increase in expenses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligibility requirements include owning and occupying an eligible one-to-four-unit primary residence, experiencing a COVID-19-related financial hardship, meeting household income limits, and having been current on mortgage and property taxes as of January 2020. Visit the township website for the application link.Mercer County Cooling Centers Mercer County maintains an updated list of cooling centers during heat waves. Check the township website for the most current information.Medi-Cool Program Rise, A Community Service Partnership, is providing 5,000 BTU air conditioning units for Mercer County low-income seniors and adults with disabilities. Funding provided by the Mercer County Department of Human Services Office on Aging. (609) 443-4464Mercer County Community College — Fall 2026 Registration Registration for the Fall 2026 semester is now open. Visit the MCCC website to enroll.Mercer 250 County Executive Benson has launched the Mercer 250 website, highlighting Mercer County's role in the American Revolution and providing a guide to historical sites and events in the region.Mercer County Food Finder Find free meals and groceries near you. The online map lists 100+ food pantries, youth meals, and grab-and-go options with dates, times, and locations. Available through the township website.New Jersey Disability Information Hub New Jersey has launched a Disability Information Hub with resources for people with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. Details available through the township website.Crisis Support — 988 If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or a mental health or substance use crisis, call or text 9-8-8 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.Volunteer Opportunities Looking to give back? The township highlights opportunities with the Lawrence Historical Society, Meals on Wheels, and the Lawrence Township Community Foundation.📚 Lawrence Township Public SchoolsJune 24, 2026 was the last day of school. Students return September 1, 2026.Board Office Summer Hours: Monday–Thursday, 7:30 AM–3:00 PM | Closed Fridays through August 22Important Summer DatesProgramDatesExtended School Year | July 6 – August 6 Connect Session 1 | July 6 – July 16 Connect Session 2 | July 20 – July 30 Camp Eagles (elementary) | July 6 – July 30 Teen Eagles (middle & high school) | July 6 – July 30 LIS Jumpstart (incoming 4th graders) | August 10 – August 13Summer Learning Portal: Available on the Lawrence Township Public Schools website homepage.🎓 Celebrations & MilestonesLawrence High School Class of 2026 Congratulations to the Class of 2026 and to this year's Top 10 graduates: Joshua Liu, Sharon Vasudevan, Preeta Cyrus, Vanathi Ram, Kristian Galinov, Om Patel, Amina Ismat, Ridhima Pandey, Sai Chintagunta, and Jessica Janusz.Lawrence Middle School 8th Grade Farewell Ceremony Held June 17 at Rider University's Alumni Gym.6th Grade Sendoff from Lawrence Intermediate School Clap-out parade and picnic at Central Park.3rd Grade Moving-Up Ceremonies Elementary schools across the district celebrated third graders transitioning to Lawrence Intermediate School.Senior Visits to Elementary Schools Graduating seniors returned to their elementary schools to reconnect with teachers and younger students.Jeopardy! Champion Jamie Ding Visits Lawrence Township Public Schools On June 16, Lawrence resident and Jeopardy! champion Jamie Ding joined students, families, and staff for an inspiring evening. Missed it? Watch the recording on the Lawrence Township Public Schools Rewind YouTube channel.Lawrence High School Juneteenth Celebration Highlights included a Gospel Choir performance led by graduating senior Ayomide Dada, a Historically Black Colleges and Universities panel moderated by Caitlyn Grimes, and reflections on the AP African American Studies course moderated by Hope Blanton. The Lawrence High School Gospel Choir also performed at the township's third annual community Juneteenth celebration at the Municipal Building, organized by the Lawrence Township Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, chaired by Paige Johnson.Lawrence High School Culture Fest — June 6 The annual Culture Fest was organized by the International Alliance, showcasing the diverse cultures represented at Lawrence High School through performances, displays, food, and activities.Lawrence Middle School House Cup Phoenix House won this year's House Cup. Congratulations!Lawrence High School Tangent Literary and Creative Arts Magazine The 2025-2026 Tangent magazine featuring student short stories, poetry, photography, and graphic design is available digitally via the Lawrence Township Public Schools website.Caring Kids of Character — 34th Annual Caring Award RecipientsStudentSchoolAbby Kitio | Ben Franklin Elementary School Nora Trimble | Eldridge Park Elementary School Marianita Vasquez-Perez | Eldridge Park Elementary School Madeleine Barnard | Lawrenceville Elementary School Delmy Romero Chajon | Slackwood Elementary SchoolLawrence Township Public Schools Retirees The Board of Education celebrated the 2025-2026 retirees at its June 10 meeting.📱 School Policies & Planning"Away for the Day" Device Policy — Coming September 2026 All personal electronic devices, including cell phones, smart watches, earbuds, Meta glasses, and similar technology, must remain put away and unused throughout the entire school day, from first bell to last bell.Strategic Planning Lawrence Township Public Schools completed a three-session strategic planning process facilitated by the New Jersey School Boards Association, with more than 100 participants. The five resulting priority areas are Health and Wellness, Safety and Security, Future-Ready Academics, Community Engagement and Involvement, and School Culture and Climate.🍽️ Summer Food AssistanceSummer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Program This federal program provides $120 per eligible child to purchase groceries during the summer months. In New Jersey, benefits are loaded onto an EBT card and mailed to families' homes. Cards can be used at grocery stores, farmers markets, and other locations accepting SNAP or WIC EBT benefits.Families who already receive SNAP, TANF, Foster Care, or income-eligible Medicaid benefits, or who have been approved for free or reduced-price school meals, may be enrolled automatically. Make sure your current address is on file with the district.Families who believe they may qualify can apply through the Genesis Parent Portal or by submitting a paper application at their child's school or the Board of Education office.Contact: Jennifer Mahoney | jmahoney@ltps.org | (609) 671-5435🏕️ Summer Community ProgramsProgramDetailsBoggs Barrett Soccer Camp | Ages 5–16. Multiple locations. See school online backpack for flyer. Camp Rider (Capital Area YMCA at Rider University) | June 29 – August 21, 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Themed weeks, arts, sports, field trips. Primetime Basketball Camp at Lawrence High School | Students entering grades 3–9. Coached by Coach Molinelli, Coach Williams, and Coach Stein. See flyer for dates and registration. Kids Art Camp K-6 (Honey House Art Studio) | Grades 3–6. Painting, drawing, mixed media, nature crafts. Extended day options available. See school online backpack for dates and details. SEAL Academy STEAM Summer Camp | July 6 – August 14. Princeton Jewish Center. Chemistry, engineering, film production, and more. (609) 657-7326 Camp Westrick Music Summer Camp | August 3–7. Singing, community, arts and crafts, outdoor play, final performance. Open to all skill levels. Animal Cartoon Drawing Workshop (Young Rembrandts) | Community Well, co-located with the Presbyterian Church of Lawrenceville. See flyer for enrollment details. ManaBadi Telugu Language Program | Weekly Sunday classes, September through May, for the Greater Princeton area including Lawrenceville. Classes starting September 2026. 4-H Health, Body, Mind Club (Mercer County Rutgers) | Meets twice monthly in Ewing and West Windsor. Open to youth. Lighting Lives Through Literacy | Sunday, June 28, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Barnes & Noble Princeton MarketFair. Read-alouds, games, and activities for children ages 0–10, benefiting Reach Out and Read at CHOP. Summer Benefit Concert (Sam Lardner & Barcelona) | Wednesday, July 22, 7:00 PM. Community Well, 2688 Main Street, Lawrenceville, NJ (co-located with the Presbyterian Church of Lawrenceville).

📌 Producer's NotesOne item in the source newsletter—Operation Blue Angel—contained only a registration link with no descriptive body text and was omitted from the script. All other content derives directly from the provided newsletter. The episode includes secondary county-level resources (mortgage assistance, cooling centers, food finder, etc.) that serve Lawrence Township residents. 🎆 Celebrate America's 250th AnniversaryLawrence Township is hosting a major Fireworks celebration on July 1st (rain date July 2nd) at Rider University, starting at 6:00 PM with fireworks at 9:30 PM. The event features:Multiple food trucks and live country musicChildren's entertainmentGlow sticks for sale (proceeds support the Fireworks Fund)Special appearance by Ben Franklin from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PMAdmission is free. Bring the whole family for a night of food, music, and community celebration. 🏖️ Summer Recreation ProgramsSpring & Summer Programs The Recreation Department offers a variety of activities for youth and adults. Follow weekly for updates on registration and program details.Art Camp – Two SessionsSessionDatesTimeLocationGradesStatusSession 1 | July 27–31 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Lawrence Nature Center | 3–8 | Spots Available Session 2 | Aug 3–7 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Lawrence Nature Center | 3–8 | Spots AvailableStudents explore painting, drawing, abstract art, and more. Sign up now before spots fill.Lawrence Community Concert Band – Spring Concert 📅 Thursday, June 25th at 7:00 PM 📍 Lawrence Senior Center, 30 East Darrah Lane, Lawrence, NJ 💰 Free event A family-friendly evening of live music.Senior Center Programs The Lawrence Senior Center offers ongoing activities and programs. Call (609) 844-7048 to register or view the full calendar.Recreation Department Contact: (609) 844-7067 📣 Important AnnouncementsMunicipal Offices Closed – Juneteenth All Lawrence Township Municipal Offices will be closed on Friday, June 19th in observance of Juneteenth.I-295 Ramp Closure (Extended) I-295 Southbound Exit 69B to Route 206 Southbound will be closed and detoured from June 4th through August for noise barrier installation. The right lane on I-295 southbound just before Exit 69B will also close during this period. Plan extra commute time.Municipal Address Update – New Mailing Address The P.O. Box 6006 is no longer in use. Update all correspondence and payments to:Township of Lawrence  2207 Lawrenceville Road  Lawrence Township, NJ 08648Update scheduled payments immediately to reflect this change. 🏥 Health & WellnessMen's Health Month June is Men's Health Month. The Health Department encourages awareness and early detection of preventable health problems among men and boys. Men die from top causes of death at higher rates than women and are less likely to seek preventive care. Visit menshealthmonth.org or menshealthnetwork.org for resources and local events.Dog Licensing Reminder Animal Control is contacting 500+ dog owners with delinquent licenses. Beginning June, summonses may be issued for unlicensed dogs.Late fee: $9Rabies vaccinations must be valid through November 2026For questions, contact the Clerk's Office.Free COVID-19 Test Kits The Lawrence Health Department distributes free at-home COVID-19 test kits (provided by Mercer County) while supplies last. Available at Lawrence Township Municipal Building, 2207 Lawrenceville Road (North Entrance), Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM.Health Department Contact: (609) 844-7089 🚗 Community SafetyDUI & Distracted Driving Presentation Lawrence Township Public Schools recently organized an impactful presentation simulating a real-life crash and educating students on the life-changing consequences of impaired and distracted driving. Thanks to the Mercer County Prosecutor's Office, Lawrence Township Emergency Medical Services, and the Lawrence Township Fire Department for partnering to bring this vital safety demonstration to life. 🙏 In RemembranceThe Lawrence Township Police Department mourns the passing of retired Police Officer John Gocke, Badge #160. Officer Gocke served the department with honor for 23 years following a distinguished career in the United States Marine Corps.Known to many as "The Rock," he was respected for his integrity, leadership, and dedication. Throughout his career, he served in Patrol, helped establish the department's first Tactical Response Team, and served as the department's IT Officer until his retirement in 2014. His lasting impact on the department and community will not be forgotten. Heartfelt condolences to Officer Gocke's family, friends, and loved ones. 📅 Upcoming Board & Committee MeetingsSchedule subject to change. Check the township website for updates.MeetingDateTimeShade Tree Advisory Committee | Monday, June 22 | 7:00 PM Lawrence Alcohol and Drug Alliance | Tuesday, June 23 | 9:00 AM Environmental Resources & Green Advisory Committee | Tuesday, June 30 | 7:00 PMMunicipal Clerk: (609) 844-7001 🤝 Volunteer OpportunitiesLooking to give back? Check out volunteer opportunities with:Lawrence Historical SocietyMeals on WheelsLawrence Township Community Foundation 📞 Key ContactsServiceContactRecreation Department | (609) 844-7067 Senior Center | (609) 844-7048 Health Department | (609) 844-7089 Municipal Clerk | (609) 844-7001 Police Department | Non-emergency dispatchTownship Address: 2207 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrence Township, NJ 08648 🔗 Helpful County & Regional ResourcesEmergency Rescue Mortgage Assistance (ERMA) Provides financial assistance to homeowners experiencing COVID-19-related hardship. Must own and occupy primary residence, meet income limits, and have been current on payments as of January 2020. Learn more at the ERMA website.Mercer County Cooling Centers Beat the heat! Mercer County maintains a list of cooling centers updated during heat waves.Medi-Cool Program 5,000 BTU air conditioning units provided to low-income seniors and adults with disabilities. Call or email for eligibility screening.Mercer County Community College Fall 2026 Registration Open now. Visit MCCC to enroll in courses that fit your goals.Mercer 250 New website highlighting Mercer County's critical role in the American Revolution. Visit for a guide to historical sites and events as the county celebrates the 250th Anniversary.Mercer County Food Finder Connect to 100+ food pantries, youth meal programs, and grab-and-go options. Online map shows dates, times, and locations.Mercer County Library System Events Visit the event calendar to find programs at the Lawrence Branch.NJ Disability Information Hub Easy-to-use website with resources for people with disabilities, families, and caregivers.NJ Crisis Support: Call or Text 9-8-8 Free, confidential support for mental health or substance use crisis. Connect with trained crisis counselors.

📣 Township Announcements Municipal Mailing Address Update Lawrence Township is discontinuing PO Box 6006 as a mailing address. Update all correspondence and scheduled payments to:Township of Lawrence  2207 Lawrenceville Road  Lawrence Township, NJ 08648 Municipal Offices Closed – Juneteenth All Lawrence Township municipal offices will be closed Friday, June 19th in observance of Juneteenth.I-295 Ramp Closure I-295 southbound Exit 69B to Route 206 southbound is closed and detoured through August for a noise barrier installation project. The right lane on I-295 southbound just before Exit 69B is also closed for construction barrier installation. 🗓️ Upcoming Meetings & EventsEventDateTimeLocationMaster Plan Public Meeting | Thursday, June 11 | 7:00 PM | Lawrence Senior Center, 30 E. Darrah Lane DE&I Committee (rescheduled from 6/18) | Thursday, June 11 | 6:30 PM | Check township website Planning Board Meeting | Monday, June 15 | 7:00 PM | CANCELLED Township Council Meeting | Tuesday, June 16 | 6:00 PM | Check township website Zoning Board Meeting | Wednesday, June 17 | 7:00 PM | Check township website 3rd Annual Juneteenth Celebration | Thursday, June 18 | 10:00–11:30 AM | Lawrence Township Municipal Building Lawrence Senior Citizen Prom | Thursday, June 18 | 5:00–8:00 PM | Lawrence Senior Center, 30 E. Darrah Lane Lawrence Township Fireworks | Wednesday, July 1 (rain date July 2) | 6:00 PM start / 9:30 PM fireworks | Rider UniversityMeeting schedules are subject to change. Check the township website for cancellations. For locations and agendas, contact the Municipal Clerk at (609) 844-7001. 🎆 Lawrence Township Fireworks – July 1stCelebrate America's 250th anniversary with a full night of food, music, and fireworks at Rider University. Gates open at 6:00 PM; fireworks at 9:30 PM.Entertainment includes:Jake's Rockin Country Band (live country music)Ben Franklin special appearance, 7:00–9:00 PM (sponsored by the Lawrence Historical Society)Bubble Guy, 7:00–8:00 PMCub Scouts Pack 206 kids coloring tableFood trucksGlow sticks for sale to support the Fireworks Fund 🎉 3rd Annual Juneteenth CelebrationOrganized by the Lawrence Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. Light refreshments will be served.Thursday, June 18 | 10:00–11:30 AM | Lawrence Township Municipal Building📧 Event contact: paigetilljohnson@gmail.com (Paige Johnson, Committee Chair) 💃 Lawrence Senior Citizen PromTheme: Masquerade | Attire: Semi-Formal | Music: DJ Dennis RodgersOpen to Lawrence residents age 60+. Presented in partnership by the Lawrence Township Senior Center and Lawrence High School Interact Club.Thursday, June 18 | 5:00–8:00 PM | Lawrence Senior Center, 30 East Darrah Lane 📞 (609) 844-7048 🏃 Recreation DepartmentSpring & Summer Programs A variety of programs for youth and adults, with details updated weekly. 📞 (609) 844-7067 | Follow on FacebookHula Hoop Fitness with Angela – Summer Session I Tuesdays at Lawrence Veterans Park | June 23 – August 4 (no class June 30) | Drop-in classes now availableLevelTimeLevel 1 – Beginner | 5:00–6:00 PM Level 2 – Intermediate | 6:15–7:15 PMRegister via CommunityPass or call (609) 844-7064. 🐾 Dog Licensing ReminderAnimal Control is contacting 500+ dog owners with delinquent licenses. Summonses may be issued beginning June 2026.Late fee: $9.00Rabies vaccination must be valid through November 2026Questions? Contact the Township Clerk's Office 🏥 Health & Community ResourcesFree COVID-19 Test Kits Available at the Lawrence Township Health Department while supplies last, provided by Mercer County. 📞 (609) 844-7089Connecting for Care Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Coordinator Elwood Dasher met with Community Care Coordinator Nicholas Henry of Sunrise Detox to strengthen community partnerships. Sunrise Detox offers detoxification and inpatient treatment programs using personalized medical protocols.Emergency Rescue Mortgage Assistance Program Financial assistance for homeowners with COVID-19-related hardship who are unable to remain current on mortgage payments. Eligibility requires owner-occupancy of a 1–4 unit primary residence, pandemic-related financial hardship, meeting household income limits, and having been current on mortgage and property taxes as of January 2020. 🌐 njhousing.gov | 📞 1-800-647-7550Mercer County Cooling Centers An updated list of cooling centers is maintained by Mercer County during heat waves. Check the county website for locations near you.Medi-Cool Program Air conditioning units available for eligible Mercer County low-income seniors and adults with disabilities. Funded by the Mercer County Department of Human Services Office on Aging; administered by Rise, A Community Service Partnership. 📞 (609) 443-4464Mercer County Community College – Fall 2026 Registration Registration is now open for Fall Semester 2026.Mercer 250 County Executive Benson launched the Mercer 250 website, a guide to Mercer County's role in the American Revolution and upcoming 250th anniversary events and historical sites.Mercer County Food Finder Connects residents with 100+ food pantries, youth meals, and grab-and-go options in the area.Mercer County Library System Community events at the Lawrence Branch and beyond. Check the event calendar online.NJ Disability Information Hub A new state resource offering information on programs, services, and support for people with disabilities, families, and caregivers.NJ is Here to Help – 988 Crisis Line Experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis? Call or text 988 to reach trained crisis counselors. 🙋 Volunteer OpportunitiesLooking to give back? Opportunities are available with:Lawrence Historical SocietyMeals on WheelsLawrence Township Community Foundation 📞 Key ContactsDepartment / ProgramPhoneLawrence Senior Center | (609) 844-7048 Recreation Department | (609) 844-7067 Hula Hoop Fitness Registration | (609) 844-7064 Health Department | (609) 844-7089 Municipal Clerk | (609) 844-7001 Medi-Cool Program (Rise) | (609) 443-4464 ERMA Mortgage Assistance | 1-800-647-7550 Mental Health / Substance Use Crisis | 988

This episode covers the June 9, 2026 edition of News from the Nest, the newsletter of Lawrence High School.📣 Community AnnouncementsPRIDEfest 2026 Lawrence Neighbors Together hosts the 2nd annual Lawrence PRIDEfest on Sunday, June 14. Free and open to everyone, rain or shine. Begins with a Fun Run, Walk, and Roll at 9 a.m., followed by live music, food, vendors, lawn games, and more. Questions? Email lawrenceneighborstogether@gmail.com.Juneteenth EventsEventDateTimeLocationLHS Black Student Union Juneteenth Celebration | Wednesday, June 17 | All day | Lawrence High School Township Juneteenth Festivities (LHS Gospel Choir performs) | Thursday, June 18 | 10 a.m. | Lawrence Township Municipal Building School Closed – Juneteenth Holiday | Friday, June 19 | — | —The township event features Congressman Herb Conway as keynote speaker. This year's theme: Lawrence Township Celebrates America 250: Black History & American Legacy. The Black Student Union celebration includes a Gospel Choir performance, wisdom circle, HBCU panel discussion, games, arts and crafts, music, and food. Morning activities are open to all classes; afternoon activities are reserved for active Black Student Union, AP African American Studies, and Gospel Choir students.🎓 General School AnnouncementsYearbook Distribution (Grades 9–11) Thursday, June 18, during lunches outside Room 301. Wait for the announcement before leaving the cafeteria. Walk-up purchases: $125 cash only, exact change (limited supply, first-come-first-served). Unclaimed yearbooks move to the Main Office.P.E. Locker Clean-Out All P.E. lockers must be cleaned out and locked with master locks attached to the door by end of day Monday, June 22. Items left behind will be donated.Last Day of School Wednesday, June 24 — early dismissal.Summer Assignments All AP and Honors summer assignments will be posted on the district website under the Summer Learning Portal by July 1.Fall Cross Country Students interested in running cross country this fall should see Mr. Krajunus in the Guidance office. Google Classroom code: iwetkfie.College Bootcamp (Rising Seniors – Class of 2027) Tuesday, August 4, 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. in the LHS Library. Hosted by LHS Guidance Counselors. Covers college lists, Common App, and admissions essays. Registration required — see original newsletter for link.Thrift Shop Clothing Drive (Class of 2027) Drop box in the Main Office all summer. Fall Thrift Shop dates to be announced.👨‍🎓 Senior ScoopEventDateTimeLocation / NotesCap & Gown Pickup Deadline | Friday, June 10 | — | Main Office. Extra gowns: $35 cash only. Senior Breakfast & Distracted Driver Presentation | Thursday, June 11 | 8 a.m. | Cafeteria. Attendance required for prom-going seniors. Sponsored by LTPD and Project Graduation. Free. Senior Yearbook Distribution | Wednesday, June 17 | Period 4 | Stadium turf field. $125 cash, exact change for walk-ups. LHS Black Student Union Juneteenth Celebration | Wednesday, June 17 | All day | LHS (seniors, see above) Senior Chromebook Collection | Thursday, June 18 | Assigned time slot | Auditorium. Bring Chromebook, case, and charger. Senior Clap-Outs | Monday, June 22 | Arrive by 1:30 p.m. | Your former elementary school. Cap and gown required. Arrange own transportation. Sign-up form coming from Dr. Stein. Senior Sunset | Monday, June 22 | 6:30 p.m. | Stadium turf field/track. Dunkin Cruiser on site. Questions: Ms. Recentio or a class officer. Mandatory Graduation Rehearsal | Tuesday, June 23 | Arrive by 7:50 a.m. | Auditorium. Est. end: 11 a.m. Graduation tickets distributed at conclusion. Graduation Ceremony | Tuesday, June 23 | Arrive by 6:30 p.m. | CURE Arena. Bring cap, gown, and tassel. No extras available on site. Project Graduation | Tuesday, June 23 | 11 p.m.–5 a.m. | Lawrence High School. Free, adult-supervised, substance-free. Last Day of School | Wednesday, June 24 | Early dismissal | —Graduation Tickets: All seniors automatically receive 10 tickets. No additional requests are being accepted.Graduation Programs: Available in print at the arena entrance (please share); digital version accessible via QR codes near the entrance and throughout the arena.Graduation Recording: The ceremony will not be live-streamed but will be posted to LTPS Rewind on YouTube within a few weeks.Not walking? Email Ms. Roche as soon as possible at kroche@ltps.org.🏆 Brag BagAlumni Highlights – Class of 2023Mohamed Abdelatty (Ursinus College) was named a Division III All-American in wrestling this past winter, placing 8th in the country at the 295-pound weight class.Cole Verga (Bloomberg College) was named Academic All-District and Academic All-Conference in swimming this past winter.Gentlemen's Ball Four LHS seniors — Elijah Toro, Gabriel Rodriguez, Edwin Urias, and Isaiah Grier — were selected for the 43rd annual Gentlemen's Ball, a black-tie mentorship and performance event. Seven LHS young women also attended in support. Congratulations to all.Culture Fest 2026 On June 6, the LHS International Alliance club hosted its annual Culture Fest, celebrating the many cultures represented at LHS. The event featured singers, dancers, a flag celebration, live performances, and a buffet. Proceeds will benefit Kids in Need of Desks (K.I.N.D.), No More Tears, and Access Life America.💰 FundraisersFundraiserWhoWhenPriceChocolate Chip Cookies | NHD Club | Friday, June 12, after school | $1 each Rita's Water Ice | Student Council | Every Tuesday after school | $3 each / 2 for $5 Ice Cream | Advocates for Innocence Club | Every Thursday after school, Staff Sign-In | $2–$3 each Project Graduation Donations | Community | Ongoing | Any amountTo volunteer or donate to Project Graduation, see the original newsletter for links.📬 Contact & LinksNewsletter contact: kroche@ltps.orgWebsite: www.ltps.org/LHSLocation: 2525 Princeton Pike, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648Phone: 609-671-5510