As a fundraiser gains momentum, the City of Harrison is extending support to Sister City Meckesheim, Germany in another way.
Celebrating the City's 1,200th Anniversary
Meckesheim, home to 5,200 residents, is kicking off a series of 2022 special events with a jubilee April 9 to commemorate the community’s 1,200th anniversary. Mayor Bill Neyer will read a proclamation at Harrison City Council declaring April 9 as “Meckesheim Day” in Harrison to encourage citizens to celebrate German heritage with food and customs.
Harrison resident Kurt Wolfert will travel Meckesheim at his cost to serve as the City’s ambassador at the jubilee. He will present Meckesheim Bürgermeister Maik Brandt with a copy of the proclamation and a congratulatory plaque from the citizens of Harrison to honor the 1,200th anniversary.
RAISING FUNDS FOR A FIRE BRIGADE VAN
The Harrison Mayor’s Community Fund set a goal in to raise $50,000 to assist Meckesheim with replacement of a fire brigade van. The vehicle was destroyed in an accident in March 2022 while transporting Ukrainian refugees back to Germany. As of April 1, the Community Fund has raised more than $30,000. The campaign will continue until May 1 and Southwest Local Schools have joined the effort to help close the gap.
Mayor Neyer is paying his own way to Germany in early May to deliver the check that will help replace the van. While in Germany, Mayor Neyer and Bürgermeister Brandt will formally execute the Sister City relationship documents during their May 7 festival, “Mei FESCHT MECKSE.” Bürgermeister Brandt was in Harrison in late 2019 to initiate the relationship. Mayor Neyer planned to visit Meckesheim in 2020, but the trip was delayed because of COVID.
To join the list of companies, organizations and residents who have donated to the Fire Brigade van fund, checks can be sent to "Mayor's Fund," PO Box 471, Harrison, OH 45030. In the memo line, checks should be noted “Fire Brigade van.” Questions may also be directed to Economic Development Director Shannon Hamons via email shamons@harrisonohio.gov or phone (513) 202-8492.
Pictured: Meckesheim's wasserkraftwerk, a hydroelectric power station