By Stephen Smoot
Last week, the Harrison County Commission held their first meeting of April on the first. Commissioner Patsy Trecost gave the customary invocation with a little extra feeling for the week prior to Easter.
“Heavenly Father, we thank You for this day . . . You overcome all of our weaknesses . . . In Jesus’ name we praise You and glorify You.”
In the opening minutes of the meeting, commissioners and County Administrator Laura Pysz-Laulis examined budget revisions, all of which passed.
Then came a series of proclamations. The first recognized Child Abuse Prevention Month. Over two dozen filed into Commission chambers where Commission President Susan Thomas read it aloud. It included that “every child is entitled to be loved, cared for, nurtured” in a life “free of abuse and neglect.” The proclamation went on to honor “dedicated organizations” for their work in helping to prevent child abuse and neglect.
Next came the proclamation for “Week of the Young Child.” This recognized the need for early childhood education and promoted its benefits while honoring those working hard in the field. It read “working families need skilled, caring, and consistent professionals” to care for their children when both parents are unavailable due to work or other issues.
The final proclamation recognized “Sexual Assault Awareness Month.” As Commissioner Thomas read, “we honor the survivors who have shared their stories and the advocates who have led the way.”
Marsha Viglianco spoke on behalf of the Clarksburg History Museum. She came to request $1,500 to help put on the Museum’s Liberty Market program. It would pay for the set up and tear down cost of putting together the event, as well as advertising.
“This is the second year for the Liberty Market,” she stated, explaining that the event should be even bigger than last year. The Museum expects 70 or more vendors, will hold a hot dog eating contest, and more. “The Army is going to be there,” Viglianco added, explaining that they will bring vehicles for display as well.
“We enjoyed it last year,” said Commissioner Thomas. Commissioners voted to approve the request.
Next to speak was Jeff Barnhardt, Town Recorder for West Milford. He came to request $3,000 for the Town’s Old Mill and Float the Fork Festival. According to the request, the event is “a two day festival bringing our community together to enjoy fellowship, inflatables, games, food, and entertainment.”
“It will be a great thing,” said Barnhardt. Commissioners approved this as well.
