Plans for the rescheduled Memorial Day events in Hillsborough have taken on new meaning, and instead of an Octoberfest originally planned, the township will observe a Day of Pride and Patriotism on Oct. 6.
The day will begin with a parade, starting at 10 a.m., that will make its way from Auten Road and Triangle Road to New Amwell Road and then to the municipal complex where a commemorative ceremony featuring speakers and a gun salute will be held. A picnic for all residents will be held following the ceremony. Parking and shuttle buses will be available from Hillsborough High School and the Auten Road School, from 8:45 9:45 a.m. for parade participants and from 11 a.m. 5 p.m. for parade spectators and picnic attendees.
The celebration is just one of many efforts underway by the township to provide support and assistance following the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.
Municipal officials had hoped to place flags around town also, but a shortage left many sites bare. Mayor Joseph Tricarico pointed out the township has not placed flags on Route 206 in the past and despite attempts at locating flags to do so this month, won’t be able to find enough flags to make it possible to do so now.
"It’s great that there is so much patriotism in our area, and the demand for American flags is so high, that there are no flags available to purchase," he said. "Our residents should be assured that as soon as we get them, they will be up and out in force."
Officials point out that unlike Raritan and Manville, Hillsborough Township does not have a "Main Street," instead focusing efforts on patriotic holidays at the Municipal Complex or at the site of the fireworks displays north of Auten Road School.
But Mayor Tricarico noted "the township has truly stepped up to the plate in terms of offering its police officers, volunteer firefighters, volunteer ambulance corps, and public works employees to the rescue effort in New York."
Hundreds of residents participated in last week’s collection of materials for the Red Cross and Salvation Army. Altogether, the township collected more than 4,000 pounds of goods, which were delivered to the Salvation Army.
"We have participated in the Red Cross’ blood drives, and offered our facilities to them," Mayor Tricarico added.
But the township’s frustration at not being able to post flags continues. The township continues to contact potential vendors in hopes of purchasing enough flags and Mayor Tricarico vowed to do so until a source is found.

