I am happy to report that recently, the online security publication Protection 1 chose Harrison as one of the safest cities in the U.S. The featured article, “50 Safest Cities in America,” is now live on their website, Security.Protection.1.com.
The Harrison Police Department has made it their mission to serve and protect all residents and visitors. I am proud that this hard work and dedication has led to Harrison being recognized as one of the safest places in America. I commend Police Chief Anthony Marraccini and his entire police force for their professionalism and diligence in keeping our streets secure and out of harm’s way. Look for the “Safest Cities” badge proudly displayed on our town website.
The Harrison Public Library recently opened its Lecture Series with a timely presentation called “Middle East Alliances.” The library had a full house as Joan Katen, a leading expert on Middle East politics, a writer and a distinguished adjunct professor at Pace University, led the discussion. The next lecture will be “The Rise of ISIS.” The Lecture Series is a very popular event and registration is required as space is limited. Participants may do so on the library’s website or by calling the library at 835-0324. To assist with advance preparation, participants may review the relevant chapter of the “Great Decisions” briefing book which is available at the library’s Information Desk.
I would like to, once again, bring your attention to a very important community event on Thursday, Feb. 25 when the Tunnel to Towers Foundation will be holding a fundraiser concert, at the Capitol Theatre in Port Chester. The concert will benefit the family of West Harrison resident, Sgt. Joseph Lemm. Sgt. Lemm was killed in December by a suicide bomber in Afghanistan. The concert will include performances by the Drifters, the New York Tenors, and Sgt. Lemm’s daughter, Brooke. Treat your valentine to what I’m sure will be a very enjoyable evening. Tickets for the 8 p.m. concert start at $50. To purchase tickets, please call 877-987-6487 or visit nypdsuperman.com. One hundred percent of the proceeds will go directly to the Lemm family.
Although winter is still with us, it’s never too early to start thinking of warmer days ahead. This summer, local pastry shop Nora’s Ovenworks is offering a summer program for children who are interested in developing their culinary skills. Half-day camps will be in session July 5 through Aug. 19. Children in fourth grade and above will meet from 9 a.m. to noon, and children in first through third grades will meet from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Students may sign up for one week or for all seven weeks. For additional information, please call 777-1063.
In closing, please remember that Monday, Feb, 15 is a holiday. Garbage and/or recycling normally collected on Monday will be collected on Tuesday, Feb. 16. Garbage and/or recycling normally collected on Tuesday will be collected on Wednesday, Feb. 17. There will be no bulk trash pickup on Feb. 17.
The next “Lunch with the Mayor” is on Friday, Feb. 19 and I will be at Silver Lake Café, located at 17 Taylor Square in West Harrison. On Friday, Feb. 27, I will be at Harrison Pizza, located at 248 Halstead Ave. in downtown Harrison. I will be at these locations from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. and look forward to meeting with residents and talking about issues facing our community.
