Happy July 4th from Mayor Manzo

To Our Harrison Family,

As our country’s birthday approaches, I find myself reflecting on the past 15 months. Of course, my initial thoughts are of the many families who will celebrate this holiday with a loved one missing from their traditions. Please join me in keeping all of them in our hearts and prayers. Secondly, I contemplate the unprecedented circumstances all of us have experienced and I wonder how history will view this episode in the decades and centuries to come. 

As an eternal optimist and likely influenced by Sunday’s celebration of our nation’s independence, I’m proud of the incredible resilience of the American people. Like the brave actions and sacrifices taken by our Founders 245 years ago, the people of this country have always shown the strength, the ingenuity and the “never quit” attitude to meet every challenge and overcome any threat to America’s place in human history. 

Our democratic experiment is a work in progress, constantly evolving as it must, while staying true to our Founder’s basic philosophies. Whether confronting a global pandemic or addressing social and civil unrest, these principles of freedom and liberty allow America’s soul to drive the conversation. Time and time again, we have proven that issues which divide us can serve as a platform to unite us. The protected opportunity for this constructive debate is America’s gift to humanity. 

As you celebrate the traditions of July 4th, take a moment to give thanks to the generations before us, and those today, who are dedicated to our country’s vision of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. Think of those in uniform currently serving our country, away from their families, here and abroad. Remember our Police, Fire and First Responders this holiday, who make a lifetime commitment to protect and serve others.

On behalf of Deputy Mayor Don Heim and Township Committee members, Julie DeLaurentis, John Williams and Adam Wingate, I wish you and your family a safe and happy Independence Day.