(10/2014) It is October. The leaves will start to change into brilliant colors – a last "hoorah" before they fall. The farmers in the area will finish harvesting their crops. The birds will migrate south. National Fire Prevention week is observed from October 5th to October 11th. This week is observed to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire that started on the Sunday evening of October 8th. For more information on what you should do during the week to protect your family go to www.nfpa.org website. We honor Columbus’ arrival in America on Oct 12, 1492 and celebrate this event on Monday, October 13th. And then, on October 31st children and adults will dress up in "strange looking" costumes to celebrate Halloween by going around the community proclaiming "Trick or Treat".

Congratulations to Austin T. Stroup, one of our local young men, who was selected by the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) to become a member of the esteemed organization. The Society recognizes top scholars who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, scholarship, and community commitment. The announcement was made by NSHSS Founder and Chairman Claes Nobel, a senior member of the family that established the Nobel Prizes. "Our vision is to build a dynamic international organization that connects members with meaningful content, resources, and opportunities," stated NSHSS President James W. Lewis. "We aim to help students like Austin build on their academic successes and enhance the skills and desires to have a positive impact on the global community." Austin is also an Eagle Scout. Speaking about Eagle Scouts, another young man joins their ranks.

A job well done goes to Eagle Scout Anthony Venzin who was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout on Saturday, September 20. Anthony has been a member of the Fairfield Troop 76 since 2008. Within the troop he has served as Patrol Leader, Assistant Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and Troop Guide. He is also a member of The Order of the Arrow, which is a distinctive honor to represent. Anthony served his community in many ways over the years by helping neighbors clean up and recover after major flooding and severe weather events in Fairfield and Carroll Valley. He planned with Father Michael Messaro, coordinated and led the construction of a 911 Peace Memorial Garden at St. Mary’s.

This memorial is a 24’ by 24’ square with pavers, timers on each side, includes three flags, one from Virginia, Pennsylvania, and New York. There are two benches where guests can reflect and pray. There is also a White Oak sapling that was given to Anthony to plant near this memorial. This sapling came from the first White Oak that was planted at the memorial in New York City. The memorial is dedicated to all the first responders. It is also a reminder that we will never forget what happened on that horrific day. Mr. Bob Reilly (Deputy Chief of Staff for Congressman Scott Perry), Former MD Senator Frank Shore and Mr. Ronaldo Vega, A.I.A. (Director of Design and Construction for the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, New York City) and I were in attendance to celebrate Anthony’s achievement. Pictures taken are displayed on ronspictures.net.

Borough meetings to be held in October are: Planning Commission (Oct 6th), Finance Committee (Oct 13th), Borough Council (Oct 14th), Borough Council Finance Workshop (Oct 21st), Parks/Recreation (Oct 22nd), a Sewer & Water Authority meeting (Oct 27th) and the Borough Council Finance Workshop (Oct 28th) if needed.

Please reduce your speed to make sure you, your loved ones, your friends and your neighbors will be safe. If you have any questions call me at 301-606-2021 or email at MayorRonHarris@comcast.net.