Fourth of July Kicks Off With A Bang!

The annual fireworks in Harrison went off without a hitch Saturday; as hundreds of spectators gathered in the Claremon Shopping Center parking lot across from the Oakland Field where they were shooting them off. It almost didn't happen due to the economic recession but local merchants were able to band together and lend their support to make the fireworks possible this year.

Longtime Harrison resident Roy Aletti, who operated the music during the fireworks show and is the owner of the Harrison Paint Supply; fought to keep the fireworks display running this year. He's also an avid antique collector and every year has a unique holiday display on his property. This year as well as celebrating America's birthday, his family is also celebrating a milestone of 100 years of residency in Harrison along with his paint store being in town.

"I was in charge for many years and this year we were fortunate enough to have all the merchants chip in with various donations along with my associate Bill Powell at Harrison Paint Supply store; and because of them we were able to carry on the tradition," Aletti said. "We all know what's going on with the economy and all the municipalities and even the state the funds are just not there. And Independence Day, that's one particular day out of the year that we can try to make an exception– there's something to celebrate the greatest country in the world and all our liberties and everything else that we have. So it was because of that I always like to honor our country and I'm proud to be an American."

Laura Triano said that it would have been rather disappointing if the fireworks didn't happen. " I was aware that it almost didn't happen it would have been a shame," she said. "Kids look forward to it every year...I like the convenience, closeness, and the good fireworks display."

Nicole Triano, who is the niece of Laura Triano and also of Harrison, said this is her second year coming to the town's fireworks.

"I'm going to the town pool with my aunt and family on the fourth. It's going to be hot." She said.

Chrissy Moschetta of Harrison always looks forward to the fourth of July.

"You can stay with your family and friends and have a good day," she said.

Harrison Patch will have video footage of the fireworks display on Monday.

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