Due to technical difficulties, my article has not been available for the past few weeks. Therefore I would like to take this opportunity to make a few comments regarding 9/11.
On the 10th anniversary of 9/11, I attended two separate memorial services while representing Williston Park. Both were emotional affairs as that horrible day of 10years ago and the effects of that event were discussed by all the prominent speakers present. The first was held in a serene setting at Clark Gardens hosted by the Town of North Hempstead, at 8:30 a.m. The early morning weather conditions were eerily similar to the weather conditions of 10 years ago.
The second was held at Kelleher field, organized by Williston Park Deputy Mayor Bill Darmstadt and the Williston Park Little League. Once again this was a highly emotional event attended by a number of local dignitaries, local clergy, representatives of the Williston Park Fire Department, American Legion, Boy Scouts, young athletes both male and female and many of our residents.
As a nation.we continue to remember and honor both those who lost their lives and their families who have had to and continue to endure the personel pain related to this outrageous event. Although this country and its citizens have been permanently scarred, the annual memorial is a major factor in the healing process. We must continue to honor all those families impacted by this event. Please keep them all in your prayers.
Solomon Schechter began their 2011-2012 school year a few weeks back and it appears that with all the discussions that took place, which led to intense planning, a smooth transition took place with little disruption to the village. I was invited to and attended their dedication ceremony this past Friday. It was a nice affair and I wish to thank Dr Cindy Dolgin, head of the school, for inviting me to represent the village. I’d like to also acknowledge the efforts she, their board and the staff have put forth to make this move as seamless a possible.
With Irene coming to our village, a few weeks back, a number of residents have raised questions concerning village trees. Village policy dictates that if a particular tree creates a hazardous condition, is unsafe or unhealthy, the tree in question is taken down. The village’s number one priority is to ensure a safe neighborhood for all. That being said. all trees lose branches at times which does not always indicate a need for removal. Shedding branches is part of a tree’s lifecycle. When made aware of a residents concern, village crews assess the tree’s overall situation and a decision is made as to the appropriate action to be taken. Currently, concerns brought to the village’s attention results in action within a week as the tree crews are about caught up with storm damage.
As the village moves through the re-evaluation process, a number of residents have voiced concern over the process with some indicating confusion over the forms that they have been asked to review and resubmit to the village. This issue has been discussed at our most recent village meeting and will continued to be reviewed as we move forward in the process. There will be additional public meetings in the future, dates of which have not yet been established. If a taxpayer has a particular or general question, it is recommended that he or she call Standard Valuation Services/Michael Haberman Associates (739-8080), the firm involved in this process. Any individual who so chooses may also call Williston Park Village Hall although Standard Valuation will be better equipped to provide the right answer. Will continue to report.
As the summer has ended and we move into fall our gazebo concert series has come to an end. The program was extremely successful with many residents enjoying the various musical programs presented. On behalf of the village I would like to thank the following sponsors: Willy Parkers, National Carpet, IHOP, Ralph’s Ices, Hawthorne Service Station.
Mark your calendars! On October 14, the Williston Park Recreation Committee will be hosting a free “Movie Night” at Kelleher Field. The program is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. with a movie for the family. Popcorn will be served and it should be a fun night for children of all ages.
As the days are shorter and school is in session please remember to obey all speed limits and traffic devices. Let’s work to keep the Village of Williston Park safe for all.
