10/13/2024
It has been brought to my attention that a serious error was made today during the bench dedication. Harold Pittman was not individually recognized for his contribution to the city of Hazel.
Please know, this was completely unintentional. Harold is the honoree I know the least about, so it had been my intention to ask our mayor, Lori Charlton, to say a few words about Harold, since he is the reason she originally became part of the city council and I know they were close. I thought Lori would do a much better job than I could. However, in the moment with all of the nerves and the people and my emotions running wild, I missed it. Please do not think of this as a reflection on the Lions Club; the error was mine alone, and I will forever regret it. I wanted so badly for everything to be perfect for the families of those honored today, but I made a human error and I'm so sorry for the hurt I caused by leaving him out.
This is what should have been said:
Harold Pittman was a man of Hazel. He loved his city and served a term as mayor. Harold was a man of action, and while mayor he did his best to look out for the safety of Hazel citizens. He served as a Hazel Volunteer fireman, and spearheaded the effort to lower speed limits on side streets to keep everyone safe. It was Harold who got our current mayor involved in city government, and so he is still making a meaningful impact every single day.
Once again, I am so sorry to Harold's family and friends for this oversight. Please know I would never do anything to intentionally hurt them, or to diminish Harold's memory or his contribution to this city.
Sincerely,
Alli Robertson