July City Council Message

By: Mayor Gerri Harbison, Contact this Council member

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Mayor Gerri Harbison

Annual events make Montgomery a special place

As Summer begins in earnest, thoughts naturally turn to the great outdoors and ways to celebrate the extra hours of sun and warmth ahead of us. Here in Montgomery we are so lucky to have not only our parks and sidewalks as ways to interact with our community, but also the many special summer events that bring us all together. For me, summer begins with the planting of the flowerbeds as our many volunteers and staff come together to roll out the welcome mat and beautify our city for the days ahead.

Next come all the special events that help create family memories and a true hometown feel. Other communities may have larger regional events, but nothing beats the slice of true Americana that is our July 3 Blue Ash/ Montgomery Symphony Concert followed the very next day by our hometown Parade and July 4th Festival in the Park. From the pony rides to the pet contest to the All Star T-Ball Game to music for all ages, these events warm your heart and show the small town feeling of our community, even in this high tech day and age. And if the day is a scorcher as it usually is, head on over to the Montgomery Pool and cool off as you enjoy old time fun in the sun!

Of course, I would be remiss to not mention Bastille Day. Many folks ask why we celebrate the French Bastille Day. I say “Why Not!” Nothing beats a good old-fashioned street party right in the middle of our Historic Downtown Heritage District. You get to see all your neighbors and old friends, make new friends and celebrate not only our wonderful Sister Cities relationship but just truly enjoying life.

And speaking of our Downtown, when I walk the charming streets of our Historic Downtown District, it is amazing what Montgomery has become. From a small town of taverns that was a rest stop on the way to somewhere else, we have grown into a premier residential community that is the envy of others. We have good schools, quaint businesses, wonderful choices in restaurants, beautiful homes and parks. We are fortunate to have world class medical care so close when we need it the most. What more can we ask for! At regional meetings I attend on behalf of Montgomery, I repeatedly hear how special and unique our city is – many times the phrase that is used is people can “tell when they are in Montgomery”. And that is because of our talented city staff and residents, many who work tirelessly to volunteer their time and creativity to make Montgomery feel like it is the true gem it has become.

Of course, this is just a sampling of what our city has to offer over these summer days. Check out the web site or peruse the Montgomery Bulletin for events that will help make this summer memorable for you. I look forward to seeing you as we enjoy the warmth of the days ahead!

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