New Community Alert System: Mayor's Column

In an effort to expand public safety outreach and communication, the Town/Village of Harrison has launched a new program that will allow residents to receive emergency alerts in real time. By utilizing the community alert system, NIXLE, residents can receive up-to-date information by text or email. The service will alert residents to emergency weather events, road closings, and public safety advisories. To register, please visit www.nixle.com or our town webpage at www.harrison-ny.gov. I urge all residents to use this very important and useful tool.

Back by popular demand, A Taste of Harrison will be held this weekend. Dozens of Harrison restaurants and merchants are preparing their offerings for A Taste of Harrison scheduled for Sunday, June 10th. Library supporters, who make a modest donation to the library, will receive wristbands enabling them to sample the delectable fare offered by restaurants in downtown Harrison. Restaurants, merchants who donate raffle prizes, and other contributing sponsors including underwrite the costs of the event so that all proceeds go to support the Library through the Harrison Public Library Foundation. A cadre of HPLF volunteers makes it all possible. A Taste of Harrison is scheduled for 11:30 AM to 3 PM on Sunday, June 10, in downtown Harrison. To join the fun, library supporters purchase wristbands that identify them to the participating restaurants. Wristbands are $25 in advance or $30 the day of event for adults. Children are $15 and those 4 and under are free. They’re available online at www.harrisonpl.org/taste-of- harrison or at the downtown Halperin Library or West Harrison Branch Library.

Each year, The American Cancer Society holds a fundraiser, Relay for Life, to support the organization. It’s an annual, global event and is staffed and coordinated by volunteers. Team members raise money by taking turns walking around a track, or designated path, for an extended period of time. This year, our community is joining the fight against cancer, at Harrison High School, June 9th-10th. For additional information on how to make a donation or to sign up, visit www.relayforlife.org/HarrisonNY.

This year’s annual St. Anthony’s Festa took place last weekend in West Harrison. Once again, this greatly anticipated celebration had many residents and visitors, including esteemed guest Cardinal Timothy Dolan, attending the festivities and enjoying the food, games and attractions. Vendors provided popular Festa favorites that included sausage and peppers, pasta and fresh cannoli. Children’s activities, music, dancing and carnival rides were enjoyed by Festa attendees of all ages. The event was a big success and provided a wonderful way of shining a light on Harrison’s Italian heritage. It was great to see many friends and familiar faces enjoying this very special tradition. Congratulations to all involved.

In closing, I hope Harrison residents are enjoying this lovely late- spring weather. With warmer conditions, there is an increase in pedestrian and bicycle traffic. I urge all residents to drive with care, especially as you make your way to the train station. Aggressive driving is the leading cause of pedestrian and bicycle injuries and fatalities. By exercising caution and extending common courtesy, accidents can be avoided. Please be vigilant and yield to pedestrians and cyclists.

The next “Lunch with the Mayor” is on Friday, June 15 th and I will be at Copper House located at 11 Taylor Square in West Harrison. I will be at this location from 12:30 to 1:30 and look forward to meeting with residents and talking about issues facing our community.