'Critters' to Join the Memorial Day Parade

In a new twist on the borough's traditional Memorial Parade, pets will be invited to march down Franklin Avenue as a benefit for the Critter Fund.

The "Critter Walk," which is being held in memory of Dr. Cheryl Welch, V.M.D., of the Franklin Lakes Veterinary Hospital, is part of the Mayor's Wellness Program.

Participants will march in the Parade along with their pets to raise funds for the Franklin Lakes Animal Hospital's Critter Fund, which aids in the care of community animals, and the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer. 

Following the parade, Critter Walk participants will go to Municipal Field on DeKorte Drive (behind Borough Hall) and walk laps around the field.  Family, friends and neighbors can sponsor participants for every lap around the Field.  P

Monday's parade begins at 9 a.m. on Commerce Street and will proceed down Franklin Avenue to Veterans' Plaza where there will be a ceremony commemorating Franklin Lakes' military heroes.

This year VFW Post 5702 has prepared a special memorial plaque listing Franklin Lakes residents who sacrificed their lives fighting for our country. 

All local military personnel are encouraged to participate or attend this year's Parade. The Ramapo and Hawthorne High School Bands along with the Newark Pipe Band will be marching as will several local organizations including Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and Franklin Lakes Recreation. The parade will also include military trucks, firetrucks, ambulances, and an antique car. 

To register for the Critter Walk, fill out this application send to Mary Ellen Marra at MaryePremiere@aol.com or call 201-857-3930 for more details.