Holiday Project; Winter Recreation; Shop Harrison: Mayor's Column

From Harrison Mayor Ron Belmont

This past weekend, members of the Jewish community began the celebration of Hanukkah. This holiday pays tribute to the unbreakable spirit and fortitude of the Jewish people. The message of Hanukkah serves as a lesson to us all that, when we stand united, we can conquer any problem and overcome any setback. It is my hope that the Festival of Lights brings comfort and consolation to all and encourages not only our nation, but our cities, towns and villages to gather together and cherish the bonds of community. On behalf of the entire Town Board, I wish all Harrison residents, and their families, a very happy Hanukkah.

Back by popular demand, the West Harrison Neighborhood Association is holding its annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration. This event will be held on Friday evening, December 7 th at 7 PM. Entertainment will be on hand on the Village Green and refreshments will be served. I’m looking forward to this yearly tradition and I encourage all residents to attend. It’s a perfect way to share the excitement of the season with family and friends.

Harrison is a wonderful place to begin your holiday shopping. Locally owned shops and restaurants offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere and it’s a great spot to get together, with neighbors and friends, as you get ready for the season’s celebrations. While making your way through your shopping list, be sure to drop in to local establishments and join in the festive atmosphere.

On a related note, several years ago the Holiday Project was created in an effort to spread holiday cheer, to families in need, right here in Harrison.

Currently, those in need encompass over 360 individuals ranging in age from infant to the elderly. Each family provides the Harrison Community Services Department with a wish-list of items. These items range from clean bedding to winter boots and coats to toys for the children. Through the generosity of merchants, and with monies collected, each sponsored family receives gifts. If you are interested in sponsoring one or more families or if you have any questions, feel free to contact the project coordinators via email at theharrisonholidayproject@gmail.com or send donations/mail to The Harrison Holiday Project, P.O. Box 47, Harrison, NY 10528.

Our Recreation Department is currently taking applications for winter programs. Back by popular demand, basketball, archery and Nerf soccer clinics will be offered in January. Please remember that parents must have current ID cards to register children for all programs. 2019 cards are now available for purchase. Proof of residency required. For more information, call Leo Mintzer Center at 949-5265 or Sollazzo Center at 670-3039.

The next “Lunch with the Mayor” is on Friday, December 7th and I will be at Hajime located at 267 Halstead Avenue. On Friday, December 14th, I will be at Tredici North, located at 578 Anderson Hill Road in Purchase. I will be at these locations from 12:30 to 1:30 and look forward to talking about issues facing our community.