HANOVER — The Our Lady of Mercy Health Ministry is hosting the first of a three-part Eldercare Seminar Series on Thursday, October 10th, at 7:00 p.m. at the Parish Center. The seminar, titled “When is Assisted Living or Nursing Care Appropriate for My Loved Ones?” will provide essential guidance on managing the challenges of aging and recognizing when to consider additional care options for loved ones.

Kim Klapper of Graceful Aging Services will lead a discussion on strategies for aging with dignity and grace.

Barbara Freda of Genesis Healthcare will focus on identifying signs of dementia and determining the appropriate time to seek further assistance, particularly for individuals living with Alzheimer’s. Both experts will provide valuable information and resources to help seniors and caregivers make informed eldercare decisions.

The series will continue with additional sessions on November 14th and January 9th, addressing other important aspects of eldercare. Whether you’re a senior exploring your rights and options or a caregiver seeking advice, these seminars are designed to equip you with the knowledge needed to plan confidently for the future.

RSVP is encouraged. To reserve your spot, email office@ourladyofmercyparish or call Kathy at (973).428-4996.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights from professionals and prepare for future eldercare needs.

Our Lady of Mercy is located at 90 Whippany Road, Whippany.

HANOVER — Residents of Hanover Township are invited to participate in a community planning meeting to celebrate two significant milestones in American and local history. The event, set for Tuesday, October 15, at 6:00 p.m., will be held at the Whippanong Library Conference Room, located at 1000 Route 10.

The meeting aims to bring neighbors together to begin preparations for the dual celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence and the 350th Anniversary of the founding of Whippany. These milestones will be commemorated on July 4, 2026, with a series of events that are expected to showcase the town’s deep historical roots and its role in the broader history of America.

The Township of Hanover, founded in 1676, holds a special place in New Jersey’s history. The planning meeting encourages community involvement, offering an opportunity for residents to contribute ideas and suggestions on how to make the celebrations memorable. From organizing historical reenactments to planning parades and fireworks, the township is eager to gather input from its residents.

Attendees will have the chance to meet fellow community members, share their excitement for the upcoming festivities, and collaborate on a vision for how Whippany and Hanover Township can highlight their historical significance. With the 2026 celebrations just around the corner, this meeting marks the first step in what promises to be a patriotic and festive occasion for all.

For more information about the event or how to get involved in the planning process, residents are encouraged to attend the meeting and connect with local organizers.

HANOVER — On Saturday, October 5; Sunday, October 6; Saturday, October 12; and Sunday, October 13, the Whippany Railway Museum will host its annual Pumpkin Patch Train event, offering a family-friendly Halloween experience for the community. Running each day at 1:00, 2:00, 3:00, and 4:00 p.m., rain or shine, the train departs from 1 Railroad Plaza, located at the intersection of Route 10 West and Whippany Road, in the Whippany section of Hanover Township.

The event offers a 10-mile round trip from Whippany to Roseland and back, taking approximately 45 minutes. After the ride, children with valid train tickets are invited to visit the Pumpkin Patch, where they can pick out a complimentary kid-sized pumpkin and receive a pumpkin decorating kit, while supplies last.

Children are encouraged to come dressed in Halloween costumes, creating a festive atmosphere and making the train a delightful sight. This visual tradition has made the event a standout in the local Halloween season.

Tickets for the Pumpkin Patch Train range from $ 13.00 to $26.00, with train fare including the scenic ride, access to the pumpkin patch, and admission to the Whippany Railway Museum. The museum features historical exhibits, showcasing the region’s rich railroad history, adding an educational element to the family outing.

Due to the popularity of the event, advance ticket purchase is highly recommended. For tickets and additional information, visit www.WhippanyRailwayMuseum.net or call (973) 887-8177.

As the event will be held rain or shine, attendees are encouraged to dress appropriately for weather conditions. The Pumpkin Patch Train continues to be a cherished part of the local fall calendar, bringing the community together for a memorable seasonal celebration.

HANOVER — On Saturday, November 2, 2024, the Hanover Township Health Department will host a Free Rabies Vaccine Clinic for local pet owners at the Whippany Fire House, located at 10 Troy Hills Road, Whippany. The clinic will run from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and is open to all residents of New Jersey.

Rabies is a fatal disease that affects the central nervous system of both animals and humans. It is primarily spread through the bite of an infected animal, and vaccination is a crucial preventive measure. The Hanover Township Health Department has organized this clinic as part of an ongoing effort to protect pets and the wider community from this dangerous virus.

The clinic provides an important opportunity for pet owners to ensure their animals are up to date with their vaccinations at no cost. All dogs and cats must be leashed or contained and accompanied by an adult. The event is open to any New Jersey resident, regardless of where they live.

“Rabies prevention is essential to keeping both pets and people safe,” said a spokesperson from the Hanover Township Health Department. “We encourage residents to take advantage of this free service to make sure their pets are protected.”

New Jersey law mandates that all dogs over the age of six months be vaccinated against rabies, and while vaccinations for cats are not legally required, they are highly recommended. This event is an easy, no-cost way for pet owners to comply with the law and keep their pets healthy.

The State Health Department recommends that pets receive rabies vaccinations every two years, even though the vaccine offers protection for up to three years. Regular vaccination ensures that pets are not left vulnerable to this fatal disease and helps avoid lapses in protection.

The health department also advises pet owners to bring any questions they may have about their pets’ vaccination schedules to the clinic. Volunteers and veterinary staff will be on hand to offer guidance and information about rabies and other preventive care for pets.

Event Details:

• What: Free Rabies Vaccine Clinic
• When: Saturday, November 2, 2024
• Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• Where: Whippany Fire House, 10 Troy Hills Road, Whippany, NJ 07981
• Who Can Attend: All New Jersey residents with leashed or contained pets

Pet owners are reminded that this is a first-come, first-served event, and are encouraged to arrive early to avoid long wait times.

For additional information, residents can contact the Hanover Township Health Department at (973) 515-6667. The township urges pet owners to take full advantage of this opportunity to protect their pets and ensure the health and safety of the community.