Fireworks & 250th Celebration, Summer Programs & Community Updates
#34

Fireworks & 250th Celebration, Summer Programs & Community Updates

📌 Producer's Notes
One 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 Anniversary
Lawrence 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 music
  • Children's entertainment
  • Glow sticks for sale (proceeds support the Fireworks Fund)
  • Special appearance by Ben Franklin from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Admission is free. Bring the whole family for a night of food, music, and community celebration.

🏖️ Summer Recreation Programs
Spring & 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 Sessions
SessionDatesTimeLocationGradesStatusSession 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 Available
Students explore painting, drawing, abstract art, and more. Sign up now before spots fill.
Lawrence Community Concert Band – Spring Concert
đź“… Thursday, June 25th at 7:00 PM
📍 Lawrence Senior Center, 30 East Darrah Lane, Lawrence, NJ
đź’° 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 Announcements
Municipal 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 08648
Update scheduled payments immediately to reflect this change.

🏥 Health & Wellness
Men'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: $9
  • Rabies vaccinations must be valid through November 2026
For 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

đźš— Community Safety
DUI & 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 Remembrance
The 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.

đź“… Upcoming Board & Committee Meetings
Schedule 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 PM
Municipal Clerk: (609) 844-7001

🤝 Volunteer Opportunities
Looking to give back? Check out volunteer opportunities with:
  • Lawrence Historical Society
  • Meals on Wheels
  • Lawrence Township Community Foundation

📞 Key Contacts
ServiceContactRecreation Department | (609) 844-7067
Senior Center | (609) 844-7048
Health Department | (609) 844-7089
Municipal Clerk | (609) 844-7001
Police Department | Non-emergency dispatch
Township Address: 2207 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrence Township, NJ 08648

đź”— Helpful County & Regional Resources
Emergency 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.