National Night Out, Pickleball, and America’s 250th

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The Hillsborough Police Department is hosting the township’s third annual National Night Out on August 5 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Mountain View Park.

“National Night Out is a great opportunity for the Hillsborough Community to meet and engage with our local police while participating in some fun events,” said Mayor John Ciccarelli.

National Night Out is a national initiative that involves municipalities from across the United States and Canada participating. It’s free and open to all. Attendees will witness live displays by police and emergency services, including K9, motorcycle, and fire company demonstrations.

“We have a great night of fun and games planned,” stated Police Chief Mike McMahon. “We can’t think of a better way for Hillsborough residents to meet and form positive relationships with the local police.”

Attendees at National Night Out can also participate in “Kickball With the Cops” and a dunk tank while taking home prizes and souvenirs. The event also provides an opportunity to chat with local police officers and learn more about the challenges of protecting the community. Local businesses sponsoring the event will also be in attendance, offering prizes and giveaways.

“This is community policing at its best,” said Police Department Liaison and Deputy Mayor Catherine Payne.

For Information on National Night Out, visit natw.org, and for information on the Hillsborough Police Department, visit hillsboroughnj.gov/departments/police.

New Pickleball Courts

On June 12, the township cut the ribbon on new pickleball courts at Harold Docherty Memorial Park.

“Pickleball has been gaining in popularity, not only in Hillsborough but throughout the country,” said Mayor John Ciccarelli before cutting the ribbon, adding “Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S.”

Residents have been contacting the township and appearing before the Township Committee to request the addition of pickleball courts to Hillsborough Parks.

“… Nothing makes us happier than giving residents what they want,” Ciccarelli said.

Parks and Recreation Director Griffin Dunne agrees. “With the high demand and rising popularity in the sport of pickleball, we’re proud to provide these dedicated pickleball courts right here in Hillsborough,” he said. “From seasoned vets to first-timers, this complex is meant for all players regardless of skill level.”

Rules and etiquette for using the pickleball courts are prominently displayed along with a rack for players to place their paddles, marking their place in the rotation.

“I can’t think of a better addition to our parks than pickleball,” said Committeeman and Recreation Department Liaison Robert Britting, Jr. “I think it’s a safe bet that pickleball is here to stay.”

Docherty Park is located at 162-164 U.S. 206.

America’s 250th Anniversary

“Hillsborough Township is planning commemoration activities for America’s 250th Anniversary,” Mayor John Ciccarelli announced at a committee meeting on June 24. “The newly-formed 250th-anniversary committee is planning several activities to be announced at later dates.

“We’re especially excited to partner with RevolutionNJ as an Official RevolutionNJ Community.”

RevolutionNJ is a partnership between the New Jersey Historical Commission (NJHC), a division of the New Jersey Department of State, and the nonprofit Crossroads of the American Revolution Association to plan the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution in New Jersey.

Led by Township Multimedia Specialist, Deborah Ng, the committee also includes Administrator Anthony Ferrera, Township Clerk/Public Information Officer Sarah Brake, Parks and Recreation Director Griffin Dunne, Economic & Business Development Director Zuzana Karas, Planning Director David Kois, Assistant Planner Samantha Ball, Executive Administrative Assistant Yazmin Barrantes-Gamboa, and local historian Gregory Gillette.

Liaisons to the 250th Anniversary Committee are Committeeman Robert Britting, Jr. and Committeeman Shawn Lipani.

In addition to sharing information and planning activities to engage residents and get them excited about Hillsborough’s rich history, the township is also hoping that local businesses will get involved and share their history throughout next year.

Stay tuned to Hillsborough Township’s social media channels, website, and Mayor’s eNews for more information about plans for celebrating America’s Semiquincentennial.