Hey Lawrence! Welcome to your weekly community roundup for October 23rd. I'm bringing you the latest news from around the township — from neighborhood celebrations to important reminders that'll help you stay on top of what's happening right here at home. Let's dive in.
First up, some exciting news that's got the whole town buzzing. According to this week's township newsletter, Lawrence's very own John Schneider is leading the Toronto Blue Jays to the World Series! That's right — the kid who grew up playing little league right here in Lawrence Township is now managing on baseball's biggest stage. The township's sending him and his family their best wishes and hoping he brings home that championship. What a moment for our community!
And speaking of celebrations, if you're looking for something fun to do tonight, the Police Department, Recreation Department, and school district are teaming up for Trunk or Treat at Lawrence High School. It runs from six to eight tonight in the parking lot on Princeton Pike. Come in your best costume, grab some treats, enjoy the music and food, and check out all the decorated trunks. It's always a great community event, and it's completely free.
Looking ahead to next week, early voting kicks off on Friday, October 25th, and runs through November 2nd at the Mercer County Library's Lawrence Branch. If you want to skip the Election Day lines, this is your chance. The library's open for voting Monday through Saturday from ten in the morning until eight at night, and Sundays from ten to six.
Quick heads-up on closures: All municipal offices will be closed on Tuesday, November 4th for Election Day, and again on Tuesday, November 11th in observance of Veterans Day. So plan accordingly if you need to take care of any township business.
Meanwhile, fall is officially here, and that means leaf collection season. The Public Works Department starts picking up leaves on November 3rd and will continue through the end of December. Each crew works through their zone street by street, and you can expect about three collections during that window. And while we're on the topic of October deadlines, don't forget — sewer bills are due by October 27th, and fourth quarter property taxes are due by November 10th to avoid any penalties.
Over at the Recreation Department, there's still time to vote in the Halloween House Decorating Contest. You can tour the decorated homes using the Monster Map on the township website, and winners will be announced on Halloween. It's a fun way to check out your neighbors' creativity and get into the spooky spirit.
Looking out for community health, the Lawrence Health Department is offering free COVID test kits while supplies last — just stop by the municipal building on Lawrenceville Road. And mark your calendar for October 31st: there's a free flu shot clinic at the Senior Center from eleven thirty to one. It's free with most insurances, and Wegmans pharmacists will be on site.
The Recreation Department's Fall and Winter programs are in full swing. They're offering everything from hula hoop exercise classes starting November 5th to activities for all ages at the Senior Center. Check out the township website for the full lineup and registration details.
So to recap: celebrate John Schneider's World Series run, head to Trunk or Treat tonight if you can, take advantage of early voting starting Friday, and don't miss those October payment deadlines. Leaf collection starts soon, and there are plenty of fun fall activities happening around town.
That's your Lawrence Township roundup for this week. Thanks for staying connected to your community — and here's to a great week ahead!